Down Under Triple Play: Elli Schoen - Babaganouj - Kinsky

Elli Schoen - Hard Heart.

Background promo - With immediate spins from Triple J's Home and Hosed and Unearthed Radio, 'Hard Heart' is quickly resonating with critics and listeners alike for its stripped-back honesty and throat-catching emotion. The track features exquisite layered harmonies, frank lyrics, and tender melodies - but the true star is Schoen’s voice that soars with remarkable expression. She answers the unmet expectations of a disappointing boyfriend with an indie-folk tale that’s equal parts sorrowful and empowering, sassy and wise. Just think of it as the most redemptive break-up song you’ve ever heard.

"Hard Heart is about when someone hurts you and you never truly regain that vulnerability," says Schoen. "But it has an uplifting feel and energy towards it, it's a break-up song that isn't depressing." The song was produced by pop heavyweight Joel Quartermain (Eskimo Joe, Meg Mac) who has a knack for nosing out bangers and polishing hidden gems. Joel says of the sessions, "Elli's performance on Hard Heart is arresting and more than a little heartbreaking. I was kinda blown away when she did this vocal, it hits you right between the eyes."

Recently supporting Gang of Youths, Abbe May and Katy Steele, Schoen is set to take her live show around the country (details TBA), while also putting the finishing touches on her new material. "I'm so excited to launch onto the national music scene and release
an album. It hasn't been a quick shoot to stardom, it’s been a slow burning journey but it's worth the wait," she explains. "I’ve learnt a lot and grown a lot - both as an artist and a person. The time is now right."

'Hard Heart' demonstrates clearly the superb vocals of Elli Schoen. The song is a little reminiscent of First Aid Kit material, nothing wrong with that, this is high quality indie folk and it's no surprise that Elli is getting noticed.

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Babaganouj - Do Rite With Me Tonite.

Background promo - Drenched in Brisbane pride, power pop-rock outfit Babaganouj have grown a legion of fans since their 2011 inception. While keeping with their distinctly Australian style, The Nouj’s sound is reminiscent of Teenage Fanclub, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, and Yuck, taking inspiration from Creation Records and Flying Nun classics.

In 2014, the band gained serious radio attention with their releases ‘Too Late For Love’ and ‘Bluff’. This success took them on a number of headlining tours, as well as each leg of the Blurst of Times festival tour. Along with frontman Charles Sale’s signature on-stage power lunges, the Triple J Unearthed favourites have supported the likes of The Preatures, Smudge, Veruca Salt, The Lemonheads, Northeast Party House and The Creases.

Continuing their powerhouse rise, 2015 saw Babaganouj play at the inaugural Mates festival in Sydney, Brisbane’s Bigsound conference, and come in as finalists for Qmusic’s Billy Thorpe scholarship. They also released their singles ‘Can’t Stop’ and ‘Hit Song’ to a head-boppingly enthusiastic reception.

Looking forward, the trio of writers is set to record three EPs in 2016, showcasing each member’s vocal talents. As well as their own headline tours, they’ll continue to spread their sound through festivals and international supports throughout the east coast. In everything ‘Nouj produces are infectious lyrics, intense riffs and unreal magnetism.

Babaganouj 'Pillar Of Light’ Tour

Friday 22nd April 2016 - Waywards, Sydney NSW - Babaganouj takeover night
Saturday 23rd April 2016 - The Toff In Town, Melbourne VIC
Sunday 24th April 2016 - Spotted Cow, Toowoomba QLD w/ Good Boy
Friday 29th April 2016 - The Helm, Sunshine Coast QLD w/ Good Boy
Saturday 30th April 2016 - Minimum Wage Club, Shark Bar, Gold Coast QLD w/ Good Boy
Friday 6th May 2016 - Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane QLD

We featured Babaganouj back in September 2015, and along comes another EP that's just to good to pass up on. With energy and spark the band deliver up some more power pop and rock, full of hooks and charm.

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Kinsky - I Am The Mountain.

Background promo - After their critically acclaimed 2013 debut album Sunset On The Good Fight, Sydney soul roots band Kinsky are back with a new 6 track EP The Edge Of The Wine-Dark Sea slated for release in 2016. The band is excited to announce the lead single off the EP “I Am The Mountain”. 

In the past 2 years the 9-piece have shared the stage with international acts such as The Skatalites, Groundation and Balkan Beat Box as well as top Australian acts such as Dubmarine and Kingfisha to name a few, quickly becoming prominent faces in the Australian roots music scene, commanding legions of fans along the way. 

Songwriter and lead singer Ernie Garland teamed up once again with legendary Catalan studio engineer Enric Carbonell in Tokyo to mix the new tracks at the esteemed Volta Studios resulting in their biggest, warmest, jumping-out-of-the-speakers-sounding record to date. A swinging reggae groove with a punchy, horn-laden hook, “I Am The Mountain” is a big-sounding, emotive take on the power of collective change when the wellbeing of current and future generations is under threat from greedy, short-sighted, big-moneyed agendas. 

“We’re seeing it locally in Australia where there’s a constant struggle, a constant push-back by people who will be directly or indirectly affected by a government’s poorly thought policy to hand over prime agricultural lands to big miners. It’s insane. If big miners are allowed to go in unchecked to dig up our food bowls then we will be left with nothing but slag-piles and ugly holes in the ground and a permanently damaged water table. To secure our future we must manage the land sustainably and respectfully. It shouldn’t be a hard concept to grasp.” 

Upcoming Shows 
Sat 23rd April - Venue 505, Surry Hills NSW
Fri 6th May - Oxford Art Factory, Sydney NSW 

Kinsky deliver up a potent and powerful reggae vibe with 'I Am The Mountain'. The song is beautifully produced and strikes a really good balance both musically and vocally, so that every part stands out with sonic clarity. Wonderful!


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Friday Five: TH'FIKA - Hemingway - Júníus Meyvant - Colorworks - Mokita x Kaptan

TH'FIKA - Stranger.

Background promo - ‘Stranger’ is the debut single from upcoming Gold Coast band TH’FIKA. The track as the name suggests, talks about the emotions related to becoming a ‘stranger’ in somebody else's eyes. ‘Stranger’ is a creative response of disappointment and anger to a one sided relationship. Originally It was never meant to be a song for the band but an emotional vent to gain closure. When Michael heard Lily sing stranger in its raw essence he could feel her pain. They re-wrote the song from two perspectives; a back and forth argumentative song. This being one out of the two Alt/Rock songs on their EP, it really came together when drummer Mitch Clark got involved. Stranger is the harsh reality of growing apart which you get to hear from the vulnerable exchange of vocals.

Rewind to 2010, two high school students, having never met before are auditioning to study music at university. They meet, they sing together, they bond over mutual influences and both leave the audition without nothing other than the exchange of first names. A few months on with both of them being accepted into their degree, they look over mid lecture and spot each other. That’s when Lily and Michael officially became friends, not long between that time did they start writing music together.

Fast forward to the end of 2013. The pair take a contract to perform in Japan for 4 months, it is then where the first idea of TH’FIKA (fee-ka) was born. Over the winter season in Japan's busiest ski village, the duo took to writing in their breaks (~Fika; Swedish for coffee break) and finding a sound of their own in between performing 6 nights a week. Becoming socialites amongst the lifestyle and intake of travellers from around the world, working as paid musicians, the duo found themselves living in nothing other than a surreal 4 months…in the village that never slept.

Drawing influences from such artists as The XX, London Grammar, The Naked and Famous and The Temper Trap. Alternative indie rock band TH’FIKA eagerly await their debut release and the future sounds to come.

Now, 2016. With the arrival of drummer Mitch Clarke, the trio are set to release their debut EP later this year, with their ‘Stranger’ single to drop April 15th.

'Stranger' may have some similarities with the above mentioned artist's, however it stands on it's own as a fine and refined song, with bags of melody and atmosphere.

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Hemingway - Unified.

Background promo - Popular Brisbane band Hemingway will release their new single “Unified” on May 6th through The A&R Department shortly before taking off on an Australian headline tour in July.

Brothers Brad and Christian Hemingway have been making music together since they could hold an instrument, a “do or die” pact to make a career out of the music they love to write. Sourcing bassist Cheyne Starkie and drummer Brad “Animal” Williams from their circle of friends to form Brisbane four-piece Hemingway, a unique blend of Alternative-Rock, Funk and Reggae in January 2015.

“Unified” was recorded locally at the Tanuki Lounge studio in Brisbane’s West End, co-produced with and mixed by Paulie B, mastered by Jack The Bear Deluxe Mastering in Melbourne.

“I don’t think we have had an easier time in the studio than we did recording this song, all the tracks seemed to be done in one or two takes and the vibe of the song was just there from the start. Paulie really helped us spill everything onto the page with this song and capture the essence of our sound.” – Brad Hemingway, lead vocals & rhythm guitar.

The first release of their upcoming EP in 2017, “Unified” is a bold new release with a strong political message questioning negative propaganda being fed to the public through the media. The lyrics are a message directed at the growing number of individuals recognising the issue and uniting against fear to choose positivity and compassion. “Unified” by Hemingway will be released 6th of May 2016.

With a funky reggae feel 'Unified' mixes up the styles and with bold dynamic vocals, can't help but be noticed. That it has a message as well, just feels right.


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Júníus Meyvant - Neon Experience.

Background promo - Westman Islands singer-songwriter Júníus Meyvant has recently caused big waves in Scandinavia after being the star of the Icelandic Music Awards-winning Best Newcomer and Best Song as well as being nominated for Best Male Singer and Best Song this year.

From relentlessly touring and selling out halls and venues across Europe, Júníus has been receiving a lot of recognition from his unique soulful folk-pop sound. This lead to plays on Radio X, BBC Radio London and Amazing Radio. Impressively, his debut single Color Decay caused quite a stir in his homeland-reaching number 1 on National Radio and then being chosen by KEXP’s Programming Director Kevin Cole as Song Of The Year. Moreover, Júníus’ fascinating guitar playing has left him compared to the talented Ben Howard.

Júníus Meyvant is back with his new single Neon Experience. By incorporating various fragments of soul, folk, pop and indie together, the result presents his creative abilities of the highest order. There’s depth, there’s feeling and intricacy, which the listener can wrap their ears in. The Aloe Blacc-style vocal performance with the Graffiti6-esque hooks, despite being 6 minutes long, can be heard repeatedly whilst retaining its magic. Oh, and there’s a mid-tempo sonic surprise in the middle…

Neon Experience is now available, very much increasing the appetite for the LP Floating Harmonies, out 8th July.

Musically 'Neon Experience' is crisp, soulful and precise, providing just the right backdrop for Junius Meyvant's super cool vocals. There is a classic soul feel running through the song, that magnetically pulls you into the groove.

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Colorworks - Daydreams.

Background promo - Colorworks intuitively indite hyper-melodic pop creations driven by swooning harmonies and sun-chiming guitar orchestration. With shrewd co-action, the quartet features the impressive skills of songwriters and vocal duo Bret Dylan (guitar) and Nick Myette (bass) alongside percussionist Andrew Ginn and guitarist/keyboardist David Easton.

The band has made many elated live new music fans in the NW with its high-voltage shows in support of their 2015 debut Joyla Red EP, looking forward to their upcoming 2016 releases. At their fun and generous shows, their sound is so powerful they add to their ear-popping originals cover medleys featuring the zest of the Zombies, the tonality of the Byrds, and the retro kick of the Kinks.

The new double A-side release Dreams of Mangoes features two super-tasty brand new songs, “Daydreams” and “Pears and Mangoes.” These are vivid meditations on riding bikes, daydreaming, and buying fruit from the farmer’s market — reflecting the joyous thrills of the band. Two older fan favourites round out the EP as well. Videos are finished for three of the tracks, to be released over the coming weeks. Stay tuned, in full color, of course.

Upcoming Live Shows:
4/21 @ The Central with Echo Ravine and Fian
4/23 @ The Rendezvous with P.S. and Plaza
Presented by PAC NW - Colorworks are going to film and multitrack this show.
4/30 @ The Metta Room in Port Angeles with Bryan John Appleby and Goldbones.
This is the second instalment of Metta Madness; Colorworks’ monthly Port Angeles residency/Seattle showcase.
5/6  @ Blue Moon w/ Pastel Motel and Heptagon
5/7 @ 107.7 The End's Taco Truck Challenge w/ New Beat Fund (Southern Cali) and Naked Giants

The new double A side single includes the featured track 'Daydreams', and an equally pleasing 'Pears and Mangoes'. It's upbeat feel good vibes can't help but get under the skin, if melodic pop is your thing, then Colorworks are well worth checking out.


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Mokita x Kaptan - Dreamer.

Background promo - There exists a clear distinction between a musician and an artist. Take one listen to producer Mokita and you are introduced to the difference. A true triple threat, the multi-instrumentalist who plays from the heart has a gift for capturing melody, channeling ambience, telling compelling stories, and putting his brooding pop touch on each song that you’ll soon recognize as signature. 

Further demonstrating Mokita’s boundless ability to draw upon ‘near to the bone’ emotions and wrap them perfectly in an infectious indie-pop sheen, Dreamer brings fellow Nashville producer and singer-songwriter Kaptan’s pop sensibilities to the forefront. The result is pacifying to the ears.

“I’ve played some shows with Kaptan earlier this year and we've talked about doing a collaboration for a while. The idea of the song is pretty simple. It's just call to keep going no matter what the circumstances. There are so many elements in life that can easily drag you down, but you just have to dig deep and keep on keeping on.” - Mokita.

This is a great melodic song. Mixing genres a little adds to the interest and the overall production is spot on. Vocals really are the icing on the cake!

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Midweek Mix: Brutus Begins - Astari Nite

Brutus Begins - Never Fade.

Background promo - Brutus Begins is a solo project by Ricardo Temporao, a Portuguese-Canadian musician writer, and director currently based in Toronto (hailing from Kitchener, ON). Elements of folk are resampled and synthesized, blurring the lines between what is real and reconstructed and challenging notions of what is natural.   

Ricardo has fronted bands for over decade from the New Low, General Staff and Skinny Bitches (which was featured on Alan Cross's blog). In 2005, he released an album under the name “Rick Temporao & the New Low” which received radio airplay across Canada and earned critical acclaim (see below). He has also composed music for films and television (i.e. short films "Dead Wake", "The Visitor", BRAVO television’s "Bravo Playlist" theme song and currently composing for short film "Scales").

Ricardo has directed and edited music videos for award-winning musicians Lily Frost, Cedar Park, and Fast Romantics.  

Recently he has begun his latest and most personal project, Brutus Begins. With influences from Leonard Cohen to Tame Impala and Shuggie Otis to T-Rex, Brutus Begins lives on the edge of a sonic "uncanny valley". The buttons, knobs and wires twist and bleed into something almost human.  Where the copper pierces the flesh is where Brutus Begins. He will be appearing at Canadian Music Week 2016.  His first album "Uncanny Valley" will be released this year.

'Uncanny Valley' comprises of seven quite varied songs. 'Never Fade' starts the whole collection off, giving you a pretty good idea of what's in store. The overall impression I come away with is that, this is a consistently good collection of songs. It is also an example of how electronic music, mixed with natural sounds and instruments really can move in so many different styles and directions.

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Astari Nite - Always Like Yesterday.

Background promo - Post Punk, New Wave band Astari Nite unveiled the album cover for their second album titled Until the End of the Moon, due out May 13th via German Label Dance Macabre Records.

"I find Until the End of the Moon to be quite compelling. The maturity of the album resonates throughout and I personally feel that the listener will have a strong image of what in fact is being spoken upon," says lead singer Mychael Ghost.

Formed in 2008, the group consists of Mychael Ghost (lead vocals), Illia Tulloch (Drums), M. Sallons (Bass), Michael Setton (Guitar), and Howard Melnick (Guitar). Signed to (Danse Macabre Records). Astari Nite has headlined numerous shows, as well as opened up for many national acts such as Peter Murphy, The Psychedelic Furs, ColdCave, Stars, Assemblage 23, Seabound, Modern English, Andy Rourke of The Smiths, Apoptygma Berzerk and De/Vision among many others.

Since forming they have put out four releases; their self-titled Astari Nite (2010), Requiem Mass (2011) Stereo Waltz (2014) featuring the singles Pyramids and I.O. 1987, and Anonymous (2015) featuring the single The Boy Who Tried. 2015 Highlights - Headlined Wave Gotik Treffen (Leipzig Germany) Performed with The Psychedelic Furs, released the "Anonymous" EP, released a music video for the single "The Boy Who Tried".

They have performed with The Psychedelic Furs and as far as the featured song goes, there is a similarity. However I thinks that's perhaps down to the distinct (and very good) vocals of Mychael Ghost. Whatever the case 'Always Like Yesterday' is one fine song, that shows that there is still plenty of opportunities to produce high quality post punk or new wave music.


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Alternative Take: Dannika - Omodada (feat. Tik Tu)

Dannika - Next To You.

Background info - Dannika Horvat is a writer/director from Melbourne. Dannika has directed short documentaries and film clips with The Summer of ABC Burns marking her narrative directorial debut. She is drawn to telling stories that are uniquely Australian with a strong focus on women, youth and sexuality.

The Summer of ABC Burns has been nominated for a number of awards, with considerable success.

She has just released her new single 'Next To You' as part of her forthcoming EP For Peaches. The EP was recorded with the guys from Good Morning and is described by Dannika herself as "four mates making soft, feminine rock".

I do not have much background on Dannika, however rather than hang around asking for more, I just wanted to share this beautiful song. It's gentle and loose feel, conjures up images similar to the one featured, with natural and relaxed vibes, and the pleasure of just playing and singing along.

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Omodada feat. Tik Tu - All My Gods (Ummagma Remix).

Background promo - Known for their intriguing cross-genre compositions and recent collaborations with Cocteau Twins' front man Robin Guthrie and OMD's Malcolm Holmes, Canada-based dream pop duo Ummagma has made a beautiful cross-Atlantic gesture by delivering an impressive down tempo remix of 'All My Gods' by Ukrainian artist Omodada feat. Tik Tu. The remix accompanies the original track, now available as a single via U.S. label Moon Sounds Records (Texas).

Omodada is the solo project of Lesik Drachuk, a multi-instrumental artist and producer, based in Ternopil, western Ukraine. In 2015, he debuted with his neo-psychedelic "Kimnaty" EP, widely considered as one of the year's Ukraine's best releases.

All My Gods (feat. Tik Tu) is an epic song about bringing humanity to another planet. "We wanted to create an atmospheric picture with a view on eternal space, envisioning ourselves singing this song in a spaceship leading us to the red planet. We consider 'All My Gods' as a perfect soundtrack for the Discovery Science channel," explains Lesik Drachuk of Omodada.

"It was cool remixing this track and our vision for this was to move from the outer space view that Omodada originally had for this track to ones inner space," explains Alexander Kretov of Ummagma. "I'm originally from Ukraine and I really enjoyed working with this band from my home region"

We featured Ummagma not that long ago, and this remix they have come up with for 'All My Gods' is totally hypnotic and absorbing. The original version is quite stunning and this just builds on the collaboration between Omodada and Tik Tu. It's a melting pot of styles and genres, wonderfully delivered.

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Monday Double Up: George Guy - Jacob Moore

George Guy - Just Memories.

Background from George - Hi, my name is George Guy and I am a music producer / songwriter /dreamer based out of New York City. I have been involved in music for a long time - honing my creative skill set over the last eight years.

Music plays a very important role in my life; it is not just a form of entertainment for me. My connection with music is somewhat spiritual; it provides me with a medium to transport myself to places and times I envision. It is my own form of meditation. Music is the soundtrack of my life.

I have big dreams of where music can take me and I am confident that music will continue to play a key role in my life. As those dreams unfold, I want to continue to write/produce songs that are timeless and memorable. I spend inordinate amounts of time and effort, writing and producing songs that can stand above all the clutter of songs that constantly bombard the airwaves.

I hope my passion and dedication to my craft is evident in the quality of songs I create. There's always room for me to grow as an artist but I am confident that at any point in time, I am at my best as a producer/songwriter. I am also humbled because I know my best work as an artist is always ahead of me.

OK so a little bit of poetic licence, the above words are actually from the bio on George Guy's website. However we did receive something along these lines from George, it's just that the above goes a little deeper. 'Just Memories' is a finely crafted song, with great production and a whole load of catchy hooks. With an attitude that the best work is still ahead of you, high standards have already been set!

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Jacob Moore - Something In The Water.

Background promo - Lifting the lid on his debut solo project in February this year, Sydney artist Jacob Moore takes another huge step into the light with his new track ‘Something in the Water’.

After years of writing, performing and producing for a myriad of acts Jacob has developed a unique knack for crafting classic pop tunes with a modern twist. Building from a bed of 50s-60s inspired soul and blues, JM uses his creative prowess and stunning vocal delivery to teleport his music into the now, holding his own as a throwback artist and as a contemporary.

Produced by Jack Prest (Flume, The Preatures, Action Bronson) ‘Something in the Water’ may deceive as it introduces itself with articulate vocal harmonies like that of a barber shop quartet. As the song grows however, new elements are introduced, from RnB to psych and subtle hints of electro-pop. The result is a powerful anthem of soaring energy, with massive dynamic swells all held in place by Jacob's unique vocal timbre.

This is a cool refreshing song. With solid foundations set decades ago, 'Something In The Water' manages to travel through varying styles and ideas, indeed the expression that it 'teleports' as mentioned above, is a far better description than anything I have been able to come up with. For me a sign of a good song, is when it finishes before you are expecting it, that's the trouble with teleporters I guess.

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Quality Not Quantity: The Gray Havens - Neighbourhood Youth - Basement Revolver

The Gray Havens - . Ghost Of A King.

Background promo - Three words. That’s how it started. Three words that teased the start of a story, a story that became a song and a title track for an album that was originally only supposed to be an EP. Three words that hint at a bit of mystery: “Met a ghost….”

There’s already a touch of mystery in the name of Dave and Licia Radford’s band, The Gray Havens. It provides a moment of recognition and camaraderie for Tolkien fans who know the reference to the mythical seaport where ships sail away to a far country. Beyond the reference, the name helps the listener learn what to expect: this is music meant to take us somewhere.

The Gray Havens’ third studio release, Ghost of a King, finds the husband-wife duo in fine form, stretching musical boundaries and writing some of their most personal and powerful lyrics yet. Dave notes an important difference this time around: “The last two records both have songs on them I wrote in college, so I feel like I've been making records with both myself and my college self. These songs are all very new, just recently written, so they feel very current and representative of where we're at in life.” That present station in life has changed quite a bit with a move to Nashville and the arrival of Simon, a beautiful baby who’s already seen more time in a recording studio than most aspiring musicians.

Not only does the album surround the listener with immersive soundscapes and lyrical imagination, it shows off the couple’s vocal prowess. Dave’s voice was first heard on a national stage when, as a high school student, he made the top twenty on American Idol Season Five. It’s probably better now that more people know him for The Gray Havens than for Idol, since the band’s music is so far removed from the standards he crooned a decade ago.

Today, The Gray Havens are making the most well-crafted music of their career. The partnership with Shive seems especially propitious; the band and producer have crafted music that deserves the finest speakers or headphones. If Tolkien’s seaport (the Grey Havens) is a launching point from which the traveller sails toward a distant holy shore, then Ghost of a King is travelling music. This collection of expressive songs speak wisdom into the here and now even while they cast a watchful eye toward the holy shore.

The lead track from the album 'Ghost Of A King' is a wonderfully crafted song, that gives the listener a good feel for this ten track album, released just a couple of days ago. The songs all have a precious and personal feel, with the listener allowed to sit in on, and be part of the story. Music and vocals are crisp and quite engaging, and the songs vary in tempo and power, with a fine mixture of instruments and sounds adding to the variety.

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Neighbourhood Youth - Atlantic.

Background promo - It‘s hard to anchor indie rock collective, Neighbourhood Youth, to a particular time or place. After bursting back onto the scene in 2015 with the highly driven ‘Feel Our Cold’ and ‘For Nothing’, the Melbourne quartet today unveil ‘Atlantic’, the final single off their upcoming, sophomore EP.

‘Atlantic’ sheds light on the raw life cycle of the Atlantic salmon, who ultimately meet their demise after laying their eggs, so that their offspring can feed off them and survive. The tale carries an underlining appreciation for the sacrifices our loved ones make for us, while also revealing a new found confidence in the band’s lyricism.

In true Neighbourhood Youth fashion, ‘Atlantic’ carries a ton of grit and power, but it is the way the boys comfortably steer the track that truly highlights their progress as not only musicians, but songwriters. Recorded at Tender Trap Studios with long time producer, Greg Rietwyk (Tully On Tully), the latest offering from Neighbourhood Youth is their boldest, most composed work to date, sparking what is sure to be an exciting 2016.

This is a pleasing song. Musically the band pack a punch, however they also know when to soften things and allow the raw, passionate vocals stand out. It's my introduction the band who clearly have already established a level of maturity and direction within their music.


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Basement Revolver - Johnny.

Words from the band - 'Johnny' is the debut from our new band Basement Revolver. Nimal and I grew up together, we have known each other since we were about eightish, and even dated for a brief two months in High School. Somehow we both ended up going to different schools in the same city where we both fell in love with the city and it's people. Nimal met Brandon our drummer at college in their music program they both attended.  We're now all out of school and wanting to get this project out to world!  'Johnny' is my attempt to rationalise difficulties with my past partner and all the heartache and angst that comes from having a really bad time.

I've noticed we work really well as a band in the writing process, it never happens the same way, but somehow our best work comes together when we are all in the same room.  We are very excited to release our first EP this July 2016. In the meanwhile we'd love to hear what you think of our debut single. - Chrisy, Nimal & Brandon of Basement Revolver. 

It's a case of finish the weekend, or if you prefer, start the week, with something good. I say that because 'Johnny' ticks an awful lot of good boxes for me. There is a powerful 'classic' pop come rock timelessness, that matches so well, the genuine and really beautiful vocals, complete with story and the emotions of heartache. Actually on reflection this is more than 'good' - it's superb.

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Music The American Way: Silas Hite - Ben de la Cour - Vaudeville Etiquette

The Satin Cowboy & The Seven Deadly Sins (Silas Hite) - Fools Paradise.

Background bio - The Satin Cowboy is Emmy winning film and television composer Silas Hite. Silas has music in his DNA. He began his career co-scoring blockbuster and independent films such as Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist and Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs with his uncle, noted composer Mark Mothersbaugh of Devo.  Now Silas’s music plays in television shows around the world, from kids shows like Shaggy & Scooby-Doo Get A Clue! and Disney’s Dance-A-Lot Robot, to adult shows such as Blue Mountain State, Eureka, Duck Dynasty, and Chef's Table.  He has scored hundreds of commercials earning him an Emmy, a Cannes Gold Lion, a Grand Effie and Adweek's Campaign of the Decade.  He’s contributed memorable music to some of the top selling video games such as The Sims 4, Skate 3, and The Simpsons. His music has played in such venerable institutions as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art, the New York Museum of Modern Art, and The Whitney Museum.

Silas was raised in the remote mountain town of Crown King, Arizona.  He attended a one room school with a handful of other children and was able to run free in woods after school.  He grew up listening to the rock and roll and old country music wafting through the air from the local 100 year old swinging door saloon.  His father, also a musician, was often in the bands playing the music.  This is the environment that informed the Satin Cowboy. "Duel" is a celebration of the golden intersection of rock n' roll & roots country. 

"Duel" is the second full-length album from The Satin Cowboy & The Seven Deadly Sins, AKA Emmy winning film & television composer Silas Hite.

Silas Hite really does take us on a musical journey with his album 'Duel'. The featured song 'Fool Paradise' has been described as Californian Americana, an apt and highly descriptive expression that really does sum up this wonderful song. There's southern rock, through to more gentle indie folk type music on the album, the one constant is the quality, these are all classy songs.

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Ben de la Cour - Down to the Water's Edge.

Background promo - The fine line between love and obsession is carefully toed by rising singer/songwriter Ben de la Cour on his haunting new single “Down to the Water’s Edge.” Credited by Red Line Roots with offering “subtle hints of Johnny Cash, Townes Van Zandt, and Leonard Cohen,” de la Cour’s hauntingly dark and sometimes humorous style is rapidly making the well-travelled singer the face of the increasingly popular Americanoir sound. Described by de la Cour as a “creepshow manifesto” in which the narrator obsesses over his unknowing victim, “Down to the Water’s Edge” is the first single from de la Cour’s forthcoming Midnight in Havana album. Midnight in Havana will be released via Nashville’s Flour Sack Cape Records, a label that “aims to document the constantly evolving sound of one city.”

De la Cour has lived a different kind of life. After growing up in Brooklyn, he set out to see the world as an amateur boxer, bartender, and agricultural worker. He lived in Havana, Paris, London, Los Angeles, and New Orleans before finally settling in Nashville. It was at Nashville’s Greenland Sound that de la Cour recorded the eleven songs of perfectly crafted Americanoir that make up Midnight in Havana.

De la Cour’s extensive travels have taken him to some strange and sometimes dark and desperate places, places he documents so eloquently on Midnight in Havana. Tales of substance abuse, murder, and mental illness sit in perfect juxtaposition with playful lightheartedness and an ever-present glimmer of hope. However, upon closer inspection, darkness almost always wins. An unlikely hero, but one that suits de la Cour.

'Down to the Water's Edge' showcases Ben's vocals beautifully. It also gives his song writing skills a pretty good showing off. I'm still trying to figure out, quite what the 'Americanoir sound' really is, however if this is an example I'm definitely up for more. New album lands in May.

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Vaudeville Etiquette - Tipping Point.

Background promo - When we last saw Vaudeville Etiquette, the Seattle band was touring in support of critically acclaimed debut album Debutantes & Dealers, an album that No Depression said was “in the same vein as Mumford & Sons and the Lumineers. Their seamless harmonies and sense of spontaneity makes them a good candidate for mainstream success.” The Seattle Times called the band “one of the bright new faces of Seattle music,” American Songwriter gave the album 3 stars and compared lead vocalist Tayler Lynn to Neko Case,” USA Today praised their ability to “mix folk, jazz and country with free wheeling abandon.”

The new album gets its name from the motel that once occupied an infamous stretch of Highway 99 in Seattle. In its heyday, here was a motorist’s utopia, filled with a thriving middle class that was ready to explore America, traversed by the likes of Kerouac and Salinger, and full of romantic intrigue and possibility. Today, it’s a forgotten relic, a notoriously seedy stretch of road that attracts violence, drugs, prostitution, and one 5-piece folk-rock band that relentlessly believes in its spirit and potential.

What used to be the Aura Vista Motel is now where the band writes, rehearses, celebrates, argues, hones their music, and shoot their videos. It’s the Vaudeville Etiquette headquarters, it’s haunted, and it’s the catalyst behind all that they do. You can hear it on this record, as each song plays like a guest in a different room; separate but united by our wayfaring desires and sordid expectations. They recorded the album with producer Shawn Simmons Studio Litho in Seattle, WA. “His knack for honing an intrinsic Seattle sound in the work he’s done with bands like The Head and The Heart and Lemolo was exactly what this record needed,” says Lynn. “He pushed us to create unique arrangements and employ unconventional recording and burrito-eating techniques that take the sounds on this album and gracefully elevate them to a psychedelic whirlwind, then down to an intimate lullaby and back around again. He’s a joy to work with and a hero at the helm.” Play Aura Vista Motel on late nights, behind the wheel of your car, volume up, windows down, and drive somewhere dark that makes you feel like you’ve got the whole world ahead of you.

'Tipping Point' is another new track from their upcoming album, Aura Vista Motel, having already received positive feedback for a couple of other preview songs. There are eleven tracks on the new album due out on May 6th and each one is a solid engaging song. The band have a refined natural sound and the production on the new album is exceptional. If you like 'Tipping Point' I think you should seriously consider an album purchase next month!

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Genre Weekend Wander: Ziemba - Desert Bones - Aukai

Ziemba - It Curls Itself.

Background words - Ziemba is the performance moniker of René Kladzyk, a NYC-based artist and musician. She has performed original and collaborative work at art, music, and dance spaces throughout NYC, including: Issue Project Room, The Museum of Art & Design, Glasslands Gallery, Trans Pecos, Gina Gibney Dance, Panoply Performance Laboratory, Silent Barn, St. Marks Church, Secret Project Robot, and Momenta Art.

She was artist-in-residence at the French Institute and Culture Vultures in Fez, Morocco, and is curator of performance art series "Casings and Treatments." She has composed original scores for Lisa Parra Dance and Karen Harvey Dances, and has recently had several songs featured on season 2 of Comedy Centrals Broad City. Her debut full- length Hope is Never is set for digital/tape/vinyl release via Lo & Behold records on June 24th, 2016.

There's stripped back songs and then there are really stripped back, and totally exposed songs. 'It Curls Itself' is refreshingly the latter, a vocal piece of beauty and originality. The full length album is awaited with great interest.

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Desert Bones - Hard Life.

Background promo - The origins of Melbourne progressive alt-indie rockers Desert Bones can be found in a place anything but the barren landscape their name suggests. It was high in the hills of central Victoria under the dark shadow of Mt Macedon that Bracken Blake (vocals, guitar) and Mat Evans (drums, bass, vocals) started cooking up elements of their powerful debut album Shy Existence, set for release this year. The first single, “Hard Life” was conceived in these pristine surroundings looking down upon an ever-expanding city skyline, and the soaring alt-indie gem is set to announce them as one of the fiercest new acts on the independent circuit.

After spending more than two years fine-tuning their material Desert Bones come out swinging with the release of “Hard Life”. The acoustic driven intro manages to lull the listener into a false sense of security before it explodes with some mighty progressions and intelligent song writing. The leviathan intensity of the chorus comes like a rock thrown through a stained glass window and will loop in one’s head from the first listen. Bracken’s gravelly, emotion filled vocal ability is on full display throughout the track, his song writing channelling the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan.

Bracken says the lyrics for “Hard Life” came to him while fishing on a jetty in Broome WA. “This was actually one of the few songs I had the lyric for before picking up a guitar,” Bracken says. “Once the guitar was in my hands the song literally came together in under ten minutes. It was originally an acoustic finger picking song, but once I moved back to Melbourne and started jamming with Evo again we messed around with the structure, beefed it up and gave it some muscle, and there it was.”

“Our music and songs seem to be evolving every time we play them, were always writing and re-working different parts” Mat explains of their approach. “I think it makes the tracks more interesting for us and hopefully the listener”

“Hard Life” is a solid introduction to Desert Bones for fans of progressive indie-rock. Rest assured, their follow up material and debut forthcoming album Shy Existence will lead them down a path that’s sometimes dark, sometimes uplifting and completely unpredictable.

This for me, is one of those no nonsense, living in the real world type songs. 'Hard Life' has commitment both vocally and musically, it's heart and passion rolled up in a song.


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Aukai - Cachoeira.

Background promo - Aukai is a Hawaiian word meaning seafarer or traveller. It’s also used as a proper name, and people who are called “Aukai" tend to have a mystical, philosophical, introspective nature. All of which makes Aukai the perfect name for the new album and project by multi-instrumentalist and composer Markus Sieber. It’s a collection of ambient acoustic soundscapes that take the listener on an inward journey to a place of stillness and tranquil beauty. His debut self-titled album is set for a June 3rd release.

Sieber’s own journey has been an eventful one. Born in Germany, he played in bands as a part of East Germany’s vibrant ‘90s rock scene before shifting his focus to work as an actor in Berlin and St. Petersburg. A life-changing move to Mexico put him in touch with more indigenous-leaning music, awakening a new musical mission that led him to circle the globe many times.

Aukai was born of his desire to create a new kind of music that could work in tandem with film, video, theatre and the visual arts. The compositions on the album also grew out of Sieber’s love affair with the ronrocco, a plucked string instrument from Argentina that Sieber first discovered through the music of film composer Gustavo Santaolalla (Babel, Brokeback Mountain). He began sketching out compositions while travelling the world as a touring musician. But Aukai really came together in the quiet solitude of a winter spent in an isolated mountain cabin in La Plata Canyon, Colorado.

From there, the project shifted to Berlin, where Sieber recorded the basic tracks for Aukai at Martyn Heyne’s recording studio with a variety of analog gear, pairing the ronrocco’s sonorous tone with his evocative guitar, piano and harmonium playing. “The vintage equipment gives the music a real physical quality,” Sieber explains. “You feel like you could almost touch it.”

He then called upon an international cadre of musicians to add their own tonal colours. Berliner Anne Muller (Agnes Obel Band, Nils Frahm), played cello. Bogdan Djukic from Belgrade played violin. Sieber’s wife, Angelika Baumbach added piano to several tracks, and his brother Alexander Nickmann contributed electronic keyboards and sound design. Another key player was Sieber’s longtime musical collaborator Jamshied Sharifi, the New York musician and composer noted for his work with Laurie Anderson, Sting, Dream Theatre and the Montreal Symphony, among others. Aukai was mixed in Berlin by Martyn Heyne (who engineered Nils Frahm’s Spaces album) and mastered in London by award-winning engineer Mandy Parnell who has also mastered discs by Brian Eno, Bjork, Max Richter and many others.

I'm conscious that we do not feature enough instrumental music on Beehive Candy, and so it's an absolute delight when something as beautiful as 'Cachoeira' by Aukai comes along. It's only one of two songs I have heard from the forthcoming album, both are a sheer delight to listen to, hope you also enjoy.

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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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