Globetrotting: Billy Momo - Aquila Young - Johnny Dread - The Hourglass Cats - Her Harbour

Billy Momo - Drive.

Background - A Swedish 7-piece band with a distinctive sound, their musical roots running deep in the soil of the rural American South as well as cruising the big city streets, combining bluesy feel with gritty sounds and greasy grooves, yet also loaded with highly polished pop hooks. Billy Momo's third album 'Seven Rivers Wild' takes the band to new, dazzling heights with soaring choruses and powerful music. In concert, a Billy Momo performance is a joyous experience, energetic, personable and unforgettable.

Not all that long ago two weathered musicians, Tomas Juto and Oskar Hovell, decided to leave the comforts and tribulations of their previous music endeavors. They went into the Swedish woods to collaborate and eventually give birth to an idea that would become Billy Momo.

Billy Momo has matured and expanded since its beginnings. Two talented and eager men have become seven independent but like minded souls on a journey that has led Billy Momo into uncharted and exciting music landscapes. Brilliant music videos, as well as being featured in the international TV sensation Better Call Saul and now a brand new best-to-date album; Seven Rivers Wild.

Coming into your own, confidence in freedom to expand and explore is human nature. The experiences life affords the seekers of honesty is never complete but groundwork for stages in eras we all thrive in. Billy Momo have completed their most achieved work to date with their new album Seven Rivers Wild.

Blazon roots rock, timeless pop in a one-of-kind sound that travels genres while staying true to the 7 piece band’s core sound. Seven Rivers Wild showcases solidly that Billy Momo have come into their own, not afraid to reach further into unexplored depths not touched on with their previous two releases. Using real life experiences to write stories we instantly relate to. Website here, Facebook here.

'Drive' typifies the quality the band consistently deliver with the new album. So whats a Swedish band doing, creating high quality Americana rock? Your guess is as good as mine, but boy, does it work. Like song equals love album.

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Aquila Young - Crimson Criminal.

Background - A fleeting moment, a fleeting high. From conversation to temptation. From temptation to intoxication. Crimson Criminal is the intoxicating new song from Aquila Young. It’s smooth and spine-tingling, infusing deep washes of synths into lucid dreaming.

With the tension of seduction and the chase of desire, Crimson Criminal brings a new twist with an evocative notoriety. It’s a delicate cry of vulnerability and a vulnerable plea towards the unrequited love, torn in corrupted game, dancing between danger and desire. Last year the songstress made waves with debut EP Distance Echoes, gaining airplay from Triple J as well as US and UK radio. Her debut single Vagabond gathered substantial following and landed placement in Spotify’s official playlisting.

Following on from a successful year Aquila Young has been establishing a local following captivating live audiences with her alluring presence and electric energy. She shared stages with the likes of Boo Seeka, MT Warning and Airling alongside boutique festival appearances including Bleach, GLOW and 2High. With electrical performances capturing onlookers both locally and nationally, and an increasing support and following for the artist, she followed on to a highly coveted live showcase at this year’s Bigsound Live.

A brazen world of isolated mystique and curiosity surrounds the artist known as Aquila Young. Her influence exudes a warmth and charisma that is both fearless and fearsome. An unwavering charm artfully provoking the senses: igniting the flame, playing with fire. Crimson Criminal will be available on iTunes and all other digital outlets on Friday 18th November. Facebook here.

Live:
Nov 25-26 - Jungle Love Festival - Sunshine Coast 
Dec 31 - NightQuarter - Gold Coast

'Crimson Criminal' is a mixture of Aquila Young's passionate and atmospheric vocals, alongside an equally dreamy and synthy soundtrack. The song builds and grows into something quite powerful, I reckon this track will get noticed far and wide.

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Johnny Dread - Full Circle.

Background - Cuban-American reggae ambassador, Johnny Dread, has released the video for his single "Full Circle". Off of his album Full Circle available on iTunes and on all major global digital formats, the title track "Full Circle" infuses Caribbean beats and was written by Dread, produced by Stephen Lashley and David Simmons for Heddrokk Productions and recorded at HeddRockk Studios in Miami, FL. The video, directed by Christian Brayant of Positive Studio, was shot in the cities of Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo in Costa Rica.

Submerged into the Rasta music community in the late 80's Dread formed the group Copacetic alongside Anthony Booker (Bob Marley's step brother), Ras Bagga, and recorded the album Ghetto Rock which peaked to #7 on the Billboard Reggae Charts in 1990. Shortly after, he embarked on a solo career and travelled to Jamaica to record his first solo album, Scarecrow (1997), with internationally acclaimed drummer/producer, Wilburn Squidly Cole, of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers. In 2000, Dread released Chapter One, his second solo album and the first one of the seven Revelations, a series of seven albums that includes thus far the sophomore release, Magnificent People (2003) and his current album, Full Circle.

Twenty-five years of touring like a true troubadour, Dread is gearing up for his November performances as part of the Corona Reggae Rock Fest in Puerto Rico and a special performance on December 10 at Cuba Ocho in Miami, FL. Facebook here.

There is a wonderfully classic reggae feel going on with 'Full Circle', that it could be mistaken as a homage to Bob Marley. This is more than that, the odd twist of a more modern vibe, is mixed in with traditional reggae, and Johnny Dread adds the energy and passion. Love it!

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The Hourglass Cats - Bailar Para Mi.

Background - The Hourglass Cats are a Desert Reggae & RockNRoll collective based out of Phoenix, AZ. Formed in 2011 by frontman Cori Rios and drummer “Hot” Karl Maier. The Hourglass Cats consist of Chaz Fertal (Saxophone), Lisa Lizanec (Trombone), Seth Gory (Bass), Jesse Morrrison (Keys/Vox),  Enrique Naranjo (Drums) and Cori Rios (Guitar/Vox). The aforementioned Rios, whom Jeff Moses of Phoenix New times referred to as a “Bona-fide Rock Star” at last years Apache Lake Music Festival where they performed an “unforgettable” set, has been writing his own music since he was 16 years old.

2016 saw the release of Portraits of Cats, THC’s second and most diverse album to date. Recorded and produced by their very own Jesse Morrison of Studio at The Farm. “Portraits of Cats will take you on a musical journey of THC’s influences”. From the “intoxicating reggae pop” of the opening track, Rainchecks, to the Latin inspired Bailar Para Mi, which will “transport you south of the border for a few minutes of fantasy,” all the way to the “prowling, growling, edgy Garage-Rock sound of Downtown Funk,” you will get a sample of their wide range of influences.

The Hourglass Cats are on their way to becoming one of Phoenix’s premiere bands. Having most recently performed on the Main Stage at Mcdowell Mountain Music Festival, The Hourglass Cats have toured the west coast and southwest regions including California, Texas, and even as far south as parts of Mexico. They have twice headlined an AZ showcase at SXSW and have shared bills with Passion Pit, Portugal The Man, Thievery Corporation, Slightly Stoopid, Kongos, STRFKR, Allen Stone, Dispatch, Tribal Seeds, and more! Website here.

Released earlier this year 'Bailar Para Mi' came my way from the band, after we featured music from a good friend of theirs. Mixing genres and styles and creating a wonderful sound, the music is fabulous and so, so catchy. Trying to pin the band to any one, two or even more genres, is a non starter, the sheer ability, energy and commitment appears to ensure whatever direction they take, they do it in style.

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Her Harbour - Hewing Crowns.

Background from Her Harbour (Gabrielle Giguère) - “Hewing Crowns” is the first single from my sophomore release, and is the oldest song on the album. I chose it as the opening track and first release as I felt it introduced the space from which I started writing Go Gently Into the Night and that it could serve as a preface to the demons I attempted to quell in making the album.

Out on February 3, 2017 with E-Tron Records, 'Go Gently Into the Night' is about cycles. I wrote the songs at a time where death felt omnipresent. This album has been my attempt at making peace with death as a character of growing importance in my life.

Edited by Mike Dubue, the video is made up of found footage from the 1966 short film “Silent Snow, Secret Snow” by Conrad Aiken. I wrote and produced the album in Ottawa and recorded with Dave Draves at Little Bullhorn Studio. Facebook here.

'Hewing Crowns' is a beautiful and tender song, where Gabrielle Giguère's wonderful vocals are supported by a haunting piano lead background, that develops slowly through the song. The video is edited with imagination, giving the song another storyline. I'm looking forward to the album.

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More Weekend Wonders: Hajk - Adam & Elvis - ACES - Eric Frisch - Imaginary People

Hajk - Magazine.

Background - With ‘Magazine’, Hajk have emerged with an off-beat, honest, creation that clicks into place and somehow combines the smooth and the sharp into a perfectly complete electro-pop song that casts a mischievous glance at influences such as Unknown Mortal Orchestra, The Dirty Projectors and ANIMA!.

This single is guided by the swirling yet magnetic vocals of Preben Sælid Andersen and Sigrid Aase, and kept tight by the tight rhythms and musicality of Preben Andersen. An infectious melody with glimpses of bands such as Phoenix, ‘Magazine’ is a song that simply won’t slip out of your head easily.

Songwriter Preben Andersen (also a member of Norwegian label mates Death By Unga Bunga) describes the track himself as “a quirky and dreamy love song about frustration and how that will ultimately lead to procrastination. There are a lot of different sounds and textures coming in and out throughout the track, and we hope that it will make people want to listen to it over and over again to try to ‘figure it out’. It’s like a simple painting that becomes something else when you are standing really close to it…" ‘Magazine’ is the first single from Hajk’s highly anticipated debut album out early spring 2017. Facebook here. Amazon Magazine  

With delightful vocals and harmonies and a crisp and lush soundtrack 'Magazine' is a dreamy electro pop song. It's also one catchy and hook laden track.

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Adam & Elvis - Hanging Tree.

Background - About ‘Hanging Tree’ The sorry tale of a young intellectual who, despite his rationalism, loses his mind over unrequited love, ‘Hanging Tree’ conforms to Adam & Elvis’s tragi-comic inclinations. Sonically, however, the song is all vivacious alt-pop, charging along a crookedly mellifluous path as the Malone brothers’ vocals veer from moody baritone to full-throttle tenor. Sawtoothed guitars sear and the rhythm section thunders while ‘Hanging Tree’ revolves around its Grandaddy-meets-Pixies chorus that provides a soaring indie-disco chant-along belying the morbid moral.

The stylish video (shot by Balla Kingston, Craig Rogers and Antonio Pineda) captures the band in ebullient mood at UK Live Sound studios in Reading, where ‘Hanging Tree’ was produced.

About Adam & Elvis. Bonded not only by blood but a taste for finding humour in the macabre, Patrick and Tom Malone are brothers whose sibling intuition extends to a penchant for songs as melodic as they are bizarre. Cut-throat guitars, dirty basslines and contorted synthesisers are their tools as the brothers pen hook-filled numbers with strange, poetic lyrics, often influenced by the stark realism in the wordplay of Patrick’s heroes Leonard Cohen and Charles Bukowski.

This thought-provoking, pull-no-punches prose is set to a musical backdrop of exhilarating wall-of-sound pop and primitive punk energy, unleashed by Patrick on guitar/vocals and Tom on bass/vocals respectively, with the aid of Juliet Styles (synths/saxophone), Steve Wraight (vocals/percussion) and Dan Robershaw (guitar). The Berkshire band have been championed by regional radio and performed their gripping live shows on the same bill as Fat White Family, The Zombies and The Correspondents, as well as numerous festivals across the south of England. Not before time, given the blistering impact of ‘Hanging Tree’, the wider world is about to get a feel for the Adam & Elvis oeuvre, culminating in a debut album release proposed for early 2017. Facebook here.

See Adam & Elvis live
Fri 25 November: Royal Oak, Bath
Sat 6 January 2017: Sebright Arms, London E2. 

The video for 'Hanging Tree' is a vibrant and lively affair, and the perfect fit for a song like this. The vocals switch gear, whilst the rhythm section thumps along and the band invite you to join in, either banging your foot or singing along or both. Wonderful stuff!

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ACES - If I Could Be Your Girl.

Background - New single “If I Could Be Your Girl” is officially out everywhere worldwide. Following on the heels of her critically-acclaimed singles, the new single conveys her cinematic tone more evocatively than anything she’s done before.

The music of ACES isn’t a collection of tracks; it’s a gateway to a worldview, one face of a meticulously defined aesthetic. When we listen to it, we find ourselves living for a few minutes with the creator, Alex Stewart, in the world she’s built for us.

ACES can be described in musical terms, of course. It’s hazy, downtempo; it’s pop music on muscle relaxers. It’s a bassy backing track and sparse beats that take a back seat to Stewart’s daydreaming vocals on a song like “If I Could Be Your Girl,” the lead single from ACES’ debut EP, Stranger. But to really define ACES, we need to go outside the idiom. ACES is a muted light. A French new wave film projected at half speed. A night in with a few friends and heady cocktails.

ACES, too, is defined as Alex: The Canadian born, Brooklyn artist is the voice and direction of the project, which takes its name from her initials. A film editor who often works alongside her filmmaker husband, Stewart borrows as much from the vocabulary and structure of that art as she does traditional songwriting. Facebook here.

The distinct and haunting vocals of ACES are striking on 'If I Could Be Your Girl'. The music is synthy and dreamy, whilst remaining quite stripped back. For me, it's late night, low light music, and that's just fine.

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Eric Frisch - The Light Ahead.

Background - Eric Frisch is an indie pop musician living in New York City. Eric’s main influences range everywhere from the Beatles and the Beach Boys to Sam Cooke and the Four Tops to Bob Dylan and Jackie Wilson. Originally from Toronto, Eric is the second of four children. Eric began learning piano at an early age and always enjoyed the task of composing on his own. He credits his parents with introducing him to the right music, playing “Here, There and Everywhere” off of Revolver for him when he was 15. Residing in New York for two years, Eric has performed at venues like Rockwood Music Hall, the Bowery Electric, the Living Room, and the Studio at Webster Hall, as well as various venues in his hometown of Toronto, including the Rivoli and Dundas Square.

Eric’s sound combines elements of 50s and 60s pop music with a more modern sound, creating a unique call to the past while still pushing forward into unchartered territory. Eric has just released his first self-produced full-length entitled Goodbye Birdcage. The album showcases his diverse range as a writer and singer, and displays his unique ability to capture the essence of his influences in his music. A talented artist and performer, Eric writes songs that are original, catchy, and memorable. Facebook here.

Need to shed a few pounds? Whilst it may not be an exercise video 'The Light Ahead' dance routine could well support a fitness programme. Musically it's a wonderful piece that could be described as surf pop and really has a timeless feel and good vibes throughout. More please!

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Imaginary People - Snapshot.

Background - Following 2014’s critically acclaimed opening volley EP, composed of espionage-themed singles, and their 2015 politically tinged full-length debut Dead Letterbox,  New York’s Imaginary People return with their second full-length release, entitled October Alice, due in March 2017. The album was again produced by Kevin McMahon (Swans, Titus Andronicus, Real Estate), reprising his role from their debut LP.

The band swings for the fences on their sophomore LP, recorded in a barn in upstate NY, via a grittier approach, with an eerie, reverb-laden wall of sound abundant throughout, cannily crafted via the use of a second drum kit inside a silo. It mirrors the morbid subject manner of the album, easily their most disarmingly personal material to date.

Mournful yet anthemic, the album resonates with a simmering intensity. Dark visions abound, of horrific events that can’t be undone—yet the sorrow is sublimated into an unsurpassable catharsis. It’s evident on the likes of the smoldering “Snapshot,” the racing-pulse rave-up “Seven Days,” and the cacophonous serpentine groove of “Fresh Kill.” But this isn’t an album of easily digestible singles. It’s best swallowed whole, as a piece, one that candidly encompasses anguish, the bleakness of humanity, but ultimately a sense of hope that music in some small way can heal the deepest of emotional wounds. Imaginary People is Dylan Von Wagner (vocals), Mark Roth (guitar), Justin Repasky (keys), Kolby Wade (drums) and Bryan Percivall (bass). Facebook here.

A nice crunchy riff opens 'Snapshot' laying the foundations for Dylan Von Wagner's vocals to pour out emotionally charged lyrics, as the band take things up a notch. This is a fabulous song that does rock'n'roll a real service, bring on the new album!!

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Weekend Wonders: Alexandria - Laurel - Wicklow Atwater - Flora Cash - Philter - Geowulf

Alexandria - Hot Day.

Background - The Stockholm-based band Alexandria muddling through the post-ironic middle class obstinate age. Their semi-electronic pop weaves together playful groove with muffled rhythms. Out of their combination of intoxicated palm tree sensualism, heard in their previous hit ”Secret Beach”, and melancholy influences from job anxiety arises an exciting harmony. In short: umbrella drinks meets ”back to the grind”.

The quintet has found an unconventional and dim world of sound of catchy melancholy, where shimmering synths engulfs the listener in a dream-like state. Alexandria has created their own sound where realism and escapism is in a state of equilibrium.

Alexandria describes ”Hot Day” with the following words: ”Hot day has its bright spots, and we are especially fond of the part after the chorus. Good vibe. We are really in to how the guitars sound the Stones album 'Tattoo You' from 1981 and tried to recreate that.”

The single will be followed up by the album ”Bossa” which is their first full-length. ”Bossa” will be released late January 2017 on Lab259.

Melodic and expansive music supports the smooth vocals on 'Hot Day'. I guess it sits somewhere between indie and synth pop, and it's one of those songs where the vocals and soundtrack are competing with each other for the attention of your ears. Next January's album seems very promising based on this track.

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Laurel - Maybe Baby.

Background - Southampton-raised, 22 year old London-based singer, songwriter and producer Laurel Arnell-Cullen has now shared a brand new track, 'Maybe Baby', taken from her forthcoming Park EP out 18th Nov on Counter Records (an imprint of Ninja Tune).

The Park EP was written, performed, recorded, produced and mixed by Laurel in her East London bedroom based studio. The first taster; 'Hurricane' demonstrates a maturity of sound beyond her 22 years, her breathy vocals sitting atop exquisite melodies with heartfelt, intimate delivery.

It follows the release of singles 'Life Worth Living' and 'San Francisco', which Laurel released on her label Theia earlier in the year. The tracks saw her garner a wealth of support from BBC Radio 1, Beats1, Apple, Spotify, New York Times, The Guardian, i-D, DIY, The Line of Best Fit and many more, reaching Top 3 on Hype Machine's Popular Chart and surpassing half a million plays in under a month - her Spotify listener figures are in excess of 300k every month.

With a debut album scheduled for early 2017, Park EP further enhances Laurel’s position as a phenomenal new talent, mixing raw organic production with striking yet touching songwriting and powerfully enchanting vocals. Website here.

Live Dates:
23rd Nov - Crofters Rights, Bristol
24th Nov - Green Door Store, Brighton
25th Nov - Eagle Inn, Manchester
26th Nov - The Attic @ The Garage, Glasgow
27th Nov - Think Tank Underground, Newcastle
29th Nov - Brudenell Games Room, Leeds
30th Nov - Servant Jazz Quarters, London
16th Feb - Sebright Arms, London

Our second feature for Laurel and the new song is 'Maybe Baby' released ahead of next weeks 'Park' EP. With her stand out vocals and a powerful and stripped back soundtrack, this is another very catchy and superbly produced song.

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Wicklow Atwater - I Wanna Be Yer Man.

Background - Wicklow Atwater is an American band. They formed and remain based in Atwater Village, Southern California. Being born and raised in the same neighbourhood all five members have been the best of friends since childhood which has created an unbreakable bond that some describe as brotherhood, in turn this has created a unique energy between the group that you can sense off and on stage.

Although its impossible to label Wicklow Atwater as a single genre it is safe to say they play a brand of acoustic music known as Americana which encompasses a blend of bluegrass, old time, country, folk, and blues. The group consists of array of multi-instrumentalists who have been recording, producing and releasing their own music independently without the aid of a record label. Wicklow holds nothing back and jumps to the occasion to grace stages, bar rooms and festivals where ever there are open ears and open minds. Growing up with big dreams and humble beginnings the boys have gotten by on a supportive fan base and a do it yourself mentality that goes hand in hand with an old fashion punk rock ethic.

The Ultimate goal of the band is simple, to serenade the nation and to live and experience the beauty that this country has to offer through touring and performing on road. With that said Wicklow Atwater does not wish to set the world on fire, they just want to reignite the fallen flame in America's heart. Facebook here.

One of seventeen songs on the new album 'I Wanna Be Yer Man' is wonderful in it's own right, and yet has to fight for it's place in the collection. Even when the band slow things down a little, there is a sense of energy and passion just waiting to burst through again. Seriously, if you like the featured song, you will love the album. It's Americana that explodes in so many different directions, it's fun and foot stomping, and deserves to be heard in full!

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Flora Cash - Sadness Is Taking Over.

Background - Flora Cash are a Scandi duo that have taken upon themselves to sonically explore the diversity of human relationships. They go straight to places where tears are shed, chairs are thrown, discussions of parting are present, but the music is created regardless. Having “met” on Soundcloud and instantly e-hitting it off musically, their “atmospheric in theme and vibe” material had soon after been supported by the likes of Noisey US, Paste, The Music Ninja, Earmilk, Interview Magazine and more.

With the release of their upcoming new album, containing the “Sadness Is Taking Over” single, Flora Cash face their most challenging moments to date sewn deep into the music. They instantly share this uneasy and raw kind of anxiety with the listener, the type that affects one’s mind, body and then somehow manages to creep into every aspect of one’s life, soon to be in control of it. Topping the song with the backing vocals, in the style of Bon Iver and Fleet Foxes, Cole and Shpresa are not only conveying their feelings but also examining them with each sung harmony.

The duo skilfully blend their deep love for acoustic soundscapes and layer it with just the right amount of ethereal production hinting at Mt Wolf, Poliça, Vogue Dots and Kings Of Convenience. Through the painful dialogue between Shpresa’s observations and Cole’s suffering, the duo succeeds at designing an inter-dimensional delicate yet mighty piece of music. 

“Sadness Is Taking Over” creates a sonic desire for tranquillity and emotional freedom which despite the heartbreak, loss or destruction, aids one with the ability of personal growth and moving on. The single is now out via the Swedish label Icons Creating Evil Art. Website here.

The vocals and harmonies exude atmosphere and melody on 'Sadness Is Taking Over'. The soundtrack is equally fine, mixing gentle beats and intricate patterns, the duo have something pretty special going on here.

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Philter - Katana.

Background - When you step into the Philter universe, his self-described cinematic electronica makes up only a portion of the experience that spans beyond the music into film, merchandise, animation and video games. With a dedicated and growing fanbase worldwide, Philter is positioned to catapult to international stardom. Behind the curtain, you find a very charming and humble guy named Magnus Gangstad Jørgensen from Molde in Northern Norway nicknamed “The Town of Roses”. 

Growing up with long dark winters and summers of light, Magnus was influenced at a young age by this duality. This manifested itself in many ways as a youth, but it was not until he moved to Bergen on the Western side of Norway that his interest in music production would become his destined choice. His first album The Beautiful Lies became a success upon arrival and resonated with a much larger demographic than a typical electronica album. His follow-up, The Blossom Chronicles, capitalized on the success of TBL and continued the journey of Blossom, Floyd and The Bunny Man, characters that create the trilogy’s universe and are the creative influences behind the music.

The new album, The Campfire Tales, brings his trilogy of albums (including The Beautiful Lies and The Blossom Chronicles) to a conclusion with an experience enhanced by the presence of the Apollon Quartet. The foursome has performed at Carnegie Hall (NYC), The Louvre (Paris), Tonhalle (Zurich) and many other prestigious locations around the world. Their magic helps set the album mood, providing Philter with a prepped canvas for his work. Each contributor adds their own stamp, yet the album maintains the sound and feel of Philter that keeps his fans clamoring for more. 

With music used in a variety of features, ski-films from Field Production, sporting events, documentaries and advertisements, with clients ranging from Discovery Channel to Norwegian broadcasting station NRK, Philter’s appeal crosses over to a mainstream audience regularly. His music is often used in major international DJ sets and Avicii made a remix of Revolver. Website here.

I chose 'Katana' from 'The Campfire Songs' as I think it gives a flavour of the quality found across all twelve tracks and also because I think it's a fabulous instrumental. You can sample more via the website, it really is a musical feast.

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Geowulf - Don't Talk About You.

Background - Following the incredible success of their debut single 'Saltwater', dream-pop duo Geowulf have now unveiled a brand new track; the melodic and reflective 'Don't Talk About You'. On writing the track, Star comments: "This song went through a geographical & creative metamorphosis over almost two years... We originally wrote it in Copenhagen, demo'ed it in Stockholm and then revisited it recently when Toma & I were both in London. I guess the song speaks for itself but ultimately it falls in the good ol' "wanting-something-that-ain't- good-for-you" vein ..." The band returned to the studio with producer Duncan Mills at the end of the summer to record the song.

The band's first release 'Saltwater', which dropped this summer, was an instant hit - the single has now exceeded 1.5 million plays on Spotify, reached the Top Ten on Hype Machine's Popular Chart and peaked at #4 in the Spotify US Viral Chart (it was #6 in the Worldwide Viral Chart).
 
This week also marks the launch of the band's new creative portal online, for regular musings, lyrics, personal photos, insights and original content direct from Star. The site will be regularly updated.

Geowulf will be performing live as part of The Line of Best Fit's annual Five Day Forecast festival of new music in January. They will play the sold out opening night, on Monday 9th January at The Lexington in London. Dagny and Ider are also on the bill. Geowulf is Star Kendrick (vocals) and Toma Banjanin (guitar/production). Website here.

It was back in July when we featured the debut single 'Saltwater' and it's a delight to now share 'Don't Talk About You', which from my point of view is another dream pop come beach pop gem. It could well be another big hit, how many artists would settle for that twice in a year!

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Quality Not Quantity: Kristin Hersh - The Girl Folder - Finlay Leslie

Kristin Hersh - Bubble Net.

Background - Ahead of the North American release of her new ‘Wyatt at the Coyote Palace’ CD/book combo, Kristin Hersh presents her track ‘Bubble Net’.

“Just about everything is a wide open sea if you look closely enough or hover far enough over your landscape/soundscape, bruised and scraped… and when you feel trapped, you could try turning around and pushing at the edges, which turn out not to be solid after all,” explains Kristin Hersh. "I know nothing and songs know everything. Sad happens and sad isn't easy, but it's no less lovely for that. The refrain "there's no tomorrow" became a relief then: no need for fear. Maybe today is all we've got, but it's amazing."

‘Bubble Net’ follows up her first single ‘Soma Gone Slapstick’ and accompanying video, created by Orrin Anderson with photography by Orrin Anderson and Ryder James.

‘Wyatt at the Coyote Palace’ is the third release in the ground-breaking book-CD format that Hersh began with her previous solo album “Crooked” and Throwing Muses’ 2013 release “Purgatory/Paradise”.  As part of her surprisingly successful career as an author, she has published the critically acclaimed “Paradoxical Undressing” in the UK (released as “Rat Girl” in the USA), a children’s book “Toby Snax,” and “Don’t Suck, Don’t Die,” a highly acclaimed personal account of her long friendship with the late Vic Chesnutt. Website here.

UK / Ireland Tour dates:
Nov. 10 - Cardiff, Clwb Ifor Bach
Nov. 11 - Aldershot, West End Centre
Nov. 12 - Louder Than Words Festival, Manchester
Nov. 13 - Manchester, Gorilla
Nov. 14 - Leeds, Brudenell Social Club
Nov. 15 - Birmingham, Glee Club
Nov. 16 - York, Crescent
Nov. 17 - Edinburgh, Summerhall
Nov. 18 - Glasgow, The Mackintosh Church
Nov. 19 - Liverpool, Philharmonic Music Hall
Nov. 20 - Hebden Bridge, Trades Club
Nov. 21 - Norwich, Arts Centre
Nov. 22 - Brighton, Komedia
Nov. 23 - London, St John in Bethnal Green
Nov. 24 - London, St John in Bethnal Green
Nov. 25 - Folkestone, Literary Festival
USA Tour Dates:
Nov 29 - The Triple Door - Seattle, WA
Nov 30 - Mississippi Studios - Portland, OR
Dec 3 - Swedish American Hall - San Francisco, CA
Dec 4 - Echoplex - Los Angeles, CA
Dec 5 - Brick 15 - Del Mar, CA
Dec 8 - Swallow Hill Music - Denver, CO
Dec 9 - Cedar Cultural Center - Minneapolis, MN
Dec 10 - Space - Evanston, IL
Dec 11 - Music Box Supper Club - Cleveland, OH
Dec 13 - Club Café - Pittsburgh, PA
Dec 14 - Jammin Java - Vienna, VA
Dec 15 - Tin Angel - Philadelphia, PA
Dec 17 - Rough Trade - Brooklyn, NY
Dec 18 - The Sinclair - Cambridge, MA  

Following on from the impressive ‘Soma Gone Slapstick’, a song we featured at the end of September we can now share 'Bubble Net' another fine track from ‘Wyatt at the Coyote Palace’.  Bubble Net is the second of twenty four songs in this double album collection, where Kristin Hersh consistently delivers her refined, often understated and on occasionally raw sounding indie rock. There is no ego trip here, everything is about the music, the lyrics and the production, and there is plenty of warmth, intrigue and quality. For me this is a superb collection of natural, assessable and pleasing songs.

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The Girl Folder - I'm Not Talking About Love Again.

Background - Nothing says summer like a harmony driven, catchy pop song and The Girl Folder’s latest release, ‘I’m Not Talking About Love Again’ is destined to become a favourite at BBQs, parties and the beach this summer. An epic, guitar driven pop song with synth lines from an 80s Korg Microkorg, and layers of vocal harmonies, ‘I’m Not Talking About Love Again’ is a live favourite at The Girl Folder’s gigs with a sing-a-long chorus of “I’m not talking about love again, because love blows my mind”.

“We love playing this live. It connects us to the audience more than any other track we have. There is always people singing along. Even if it’s the first time you have heard the song, it has that special quality of climbing into your mind and staying there. The term ear worm was made for this track!” says the band about the track.

The Girl Folder started with singer songwriter Matthew West relocating to Newcastle, NSW. Originally from London, Matthew gained extensive airplay on alternative London radio stations XFM (now Radio X) and Total Rock radio with his band Mobster, who also got the coveted ‘Single of the Week’ from Record Collector magazine. After relocating, he then proceeded to start an open mic night for two reasons: one, to showcase his songs, and two, to meet musicians.

A year later, The Girl Folder was born. Plundering time and space for musical meaning, The Girl Folder create original, lyrical and above all melodic songs: “Theres melody in everything we do. It’s the only rule, well unwritten rule that we have as a band. Anything goes as long as it works, but it has to be melodic.”

‘I’m Not Talking About Love Again’ was written, recorded produced and mixed by Matthew West and The Girl Folder at the bands studio, Sonic Mountain Studio in Newcastle, NSW. Written in 2015 and recorded June 2016, and will be released 11th of November 2016. Website here.

I love Australian promos this time of year, when they just have to mention summer, beaches, parties and BBQ's whilst half the world is slipping into winter and the cold, nothing like rubbing it in eh! So down under 'I'm Not Talking About Love Again' will be just right for all of that (it is indeed catchy and sing-a-long material). The rest of us can sit back and take in the darkness of the video, and wonder what kind of parties they actually have in Oz.

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Finlay Leslie - Waiting On Your Goodbye.

Background - Fresh from supporting TV & solo star Heather Peace on her UK tour, Finlay Leslie showcases her captivating and honest vocals with emotive guitar playing that lashes more passionately than the tides against the iconic white cliffs of her hometown of Dover, in the addictive “Waiting On Your Goodbye”, released Friday 4th November.

Leslie brings the heart breaking new single “Waiting On Our Goodbye” with her emotions laid bare. The young singer/songwriter flaunts her poetic storytelling, creating an anthem for those times when the heart aches. Finlay combines reflective lyrics and moving vocals with upbeat guitar playing displaying songwriting talent exceeding far beyond her years.

Finlay Leslie makes up for what she lacks in height with a big voice and a markedly vast range of song writing inspiration. Drawing experience from break-ups, trust, love 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.

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 songwriting abilities with distinctive versions and arrangements of well-known covers before posting incredibly well received live versions of her original compositions.

Following shows with the likes Radio 2 backed Blair Dunlop, Mishka Shubaly, Blackbeard’s Tea Party and TV & Solo star Heather Peace, Finlay has been chosen to support The Sons of Pitches, winners of BBC2 TV’s “The Naked Choir” at a selection of sold out shows. Festival appearances in 2016 include Tramlines, Harvest Festival, The Great Escape and “Heather Peace Presents” at Manchester Pride. “Waiting On Your Goodbye” is now released and taken from the debut album out next year. Facebook here.

We had the pleasure of featuring Finlay Leslie back in April this year and I am now delighted to share 'Waiting On Your Goodbye'. Another melodic acoustic song, where the vocals seemingly fly and skip above the energised guitar work, whilst the lyrics let the story unfold. It's creative and natural sounding manner, demonstrates quality and a real knack for songwriting and performing.

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Midweek Muse: Field Trip - WHOOP-Szo - Sian Cross - Trudy and the Romance - A Tree Grows

Field Trip - Still.

Background - New York-based field trip have shared their latest track "Still". It's from their upcoming album, Horror Vauci. The band's Noah Champ explains that "The lyrics come from one of my favourite dreams that involved melting into someone underwater, in the shallow end of a swimming pool."

It’s not easy for people with strange, sometimes puzzling minds to control the sounds in their heads and effectuate them into meaning through sound. Noah Champ, Los Angeles native expatriated to New York, has one of those elusive minds: neither here nor there, but somewhere in between, constantly building and re-building upon the expanses of thought. His music, penned field trip, exposes a deeply-altered perspective, horrified and charged by new environs and feelings. Unlike many, Champ has successfully been able to materialise the emotional voids at the core of his person, and has etched them on tape for us to indulge in.

Champ moved to New York in what proved to be a deeply-altering time not only for him, but for his new home’s music scene. The beau monde-induced demise of dominant venues like Death by Audio and 285 Kent prophesied the inevitable extinction of the tight-knit, music-first rooms that incubated records the band regarded as scripture. 

Wishing to experience these space’s ephemeral legacy and mythos, Champ (singer/drums), joined by Nico Geyer (guitar), Phillip Braun (synthesisers), and Jason Park (guitar), sprung on an opportunity to play at Palisades in late 2014, having since been joined by Will Sacks (bass). Another year of playing and ambling in New York finds field trip tapping into further reaching sounds, connecting the dots between the likes of Factory Records alums, early trip hop, and space-age California. The band release their debut LP, Horror Vacui, this Friday (11/11). Facebook here.

'Still' is a fine song and good indicator of what's to be heard on the debut album Horror Vacui, released this coming Friday. Field Trip dare to be different with the album, it's genre defying and although they have something of a consistent sound, there is no safe format. Despite the exploration and perhaps experimentation, they also have an ear for melody and avoid being self indulgent, but are certainly imaginative.

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WHOOP-Szo - Another Show.

Background from the band - Our new record, Citizen’s Ban(ne)d Radio, is a grouping of demos and experiments carried out through a rigorous touring schedule. In a way it’s a band finding a collective voice and searching in vain to find a sound all it’s own, but in a very fragmented way.

Citizen’s Ban(ne)d Radio worked out in a way that feels like a natural progression from where our previous recordings left-off. We recorded from home (as sporadic as it was to be at home) which became a very reflective process. The rest of our world was spinning faster than any of us could have imagined and before we knew it, two years had passed and we felt as though we had become entirely different people. In the end this feels like a record of and by the road. A never ending search and reflection. A bit nostalgic and definitely varied.

Our album and song themes often focus on issues like colonisation, language, self-determination, and appropriation. We work to bridge the boundaries between social work, activism, and music making, not only in our hometown of London, Ontario, but also in communities across Turtle Island. Facebook here.

Live Dates:
November 11 - Jimmy Jazz - Guelph
November 17 - Baby G - Toronto
November 18 - London release - TBA
November 19 - Orange Room - Aylmer
November 23 - Ottawa w/Ottawa Explosion
November 24 - L’esco - Montreal
November 25 - le Scanner - Quebec City
November 26 - The Spill - Peterborough
December 2 - Brantford
December 3 - Hamilton

WHOOP-Szo are loosely an alt rock band with the emphasis firmly on alternative. 'Another Show' demonstrates a softer side of the band and lies somewhere between psychedelic and folk music. They can and do mix up the tempo and energy levels, whilst keeping their material accessible and so often melodic.

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Sian Cross - Stare At Me.

Background - Sian Cross stunned listeners with her recent single Tell Anybody. Praised by critics and fans alike, helped by a stunning stop-motion video from Wes Anderson collaborator Andy Biddle. Reviewers praised her honest songwriting and exquisite vocals.

Sian’s latest single, Stare At Me, will be released on the week of National Anti-bullying week whilst 50% of money that is raised by the sale of this track will go towards an anti-bullying charity – something Sian feels strongly about.

Stare At Me, is based on having conscious knowledge and acceptance of ones own individually - being separate from our environment and other individuals. Not only do the emotive Jesse Ware style vocals surpass expectations, but also the lyrics are what pull us in, leaving us instantly needing more. Website here.

Live Dates:
11th - Basingstoke Anvil - Basingstoke (supporting Sons Of Pitches)
12th - Falmouth Pavilion - Falmouth (supporting Son Of Pitches)
14th - St Albans Arena - St Albans (supporting Sons Of Pitches)
21st - Cadogan Hall - London (supporting Sons Of Pitches)
23rd - The Rowbarge - Guildford (supporting Mishka Shubaly)
25th - Gullivers - Manchester  (supporting Mishka Shubaly)
26th - Slaughtered Lamb - London (supporting Mishka Shubaly)
27th - Robin 2 - Wolverhampton (supporting China Crisis)

'Stare At Me' is our third song feature for Sian Cross (well I did say "I definitely want to hear more" last time around). I remain massively impressed and not just with her superb vocals. If anything each song seems to grow in quality from content, arrangement through to production. If you can see her live at the above dates, I say go for it!

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Trudy and the Romance - Sandman.

Background - Fresh from their tour with The Big Moon, Trudy and the Romance unleash new cut ‘Sandman’, a rampaging track which sees the Liverpool trio further carving out their own lane.

Delivered with a twisted twinkle in their eyes, ‘Sandman’ is their boldest pop statement yet. Shout-along segments and wavy chord progressions add a driving pop character to their ostensibly slapdash but perfectly crafted song writing. A dash of northern soul (or is it Northern Songs?) inflects their rowdy rock and roll with a sentimental charm.

Trudy’s ascent has been quick and effortless. Previous single ‘He Sings’ united all corners of the nation in praise, from the London press outwards, and promptly climbed to number 7 on the UK Spotify viral charts. 6Music’s Steve Lamacq is a bona fide fan, having seen them and made them artist of the week, and through their gigging Trudy and the Romance have further cemented their conquest. Feverish support on the airwaves has come from Radio X and Radio 1’s Huw Stephens who included ‘He Sings’ in his Best of BBC Introducing, and even from as far afield as LA’s KCRW.

With more material in the works and yet more gigging before the year is out, Trudy and the Romance are cooking up something unique and fresh. To all those who thought the age of romance in music is long dead, Trudy and the Romance stand defiant as mutated specimens of a bygone era. Website here.

Live dates
18 November 02 Academy 2, Liverpool *Supporting Honeyblood
25 November The Finsbury, London *Rockfeedback Club Night
13 – 19 March, SXSW, Austin, USA

Less than two weeks after our first feature for Trudy and The Romance the band provide us with another song in the form of 'Sandman', and it's to good to ignore. The band continue to produce lovable and beautifully loose music, that manages to come together and ooze feeling and charm.

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A Tree Grows - Wau Wau Water.

Background -  In advance of announcing their debut album through Rufftone Records, Brooklyn-based A Tree Grows present 'Wau Wau Water', the first single from their self-titled debut EP. Involving some of the most talented musicians on the New York scene, they create a unique stew with jazz at its core, blended with afrobeat, rock and experimental sounds.

Each composition on this coming LP surrounds a difference concept, describing a distinct state in the evolution of life on earth. The images are snapshots, extending from the beginning of life to the emergence of emotions, to aspects of modern human life. The cycle closes with possibilities for future development: self perpetuating intelligence. The composition Wau Wau Water is based on the following concept: "Enzymes are forming in a prehistoric ocean - evolving into bacteria. A stew of life is brewing, the cycle starts and intensifies in this patch of fertile Wau Wau Water."

"Defining and discussing these concepts during the rehearsal and recording process created a sense of purpose among the musicians and a deeper engagement with the compositions. This has transformed our creative process," explains Emanuel Ruffler.

The accompanying video was created by acclaimed videographer Hideki Shiota, who has received the Best Cinematography Award at the Asian American International Film Festival.

A Tree Grows creates instrumental jazz-core music that tastefully crosses stylistic barriers. This unique collaboration involves two brothers - Rashaan Carter and Russell Carter - and German-born electronic musician Emanuel Ruffler. Together, they create sonic textures, over which Tivon Penicott and Duane Eubanks stretch a layer of raw, emotional jazz lines. Not afraid to defy expectations of style, instrumentation and expression, the unique style of each member of A Tree Grows makes for a potent sonic concoction that is refreshing, insightful, and deliciously exciting. Facebook here.

I guess Beehive Candy is hardly any jazz fans first port of call for new music, however I just love 'Wau Wau Water' and it's easy and laid back feeling. In the UK there used to be a comedy sketch show (The Fast Show) where Jazz Club was a regular piece, almost always with a super cool host and artists that played awfully, or just making an indulgent noise. A Tree Grows are the anecdote for all of that, this is superb music, and just so good for my ears and heart.

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Globetrotting: Hideout - The Argues - Citizen of the World - Sylva Faye

Hideout - Doctor.

Background - Hideout is Manhattan-based songwriter Gabriel Rodriguez, who's also a longtime band member of Cults. His sophomore album So Many Hoops / So Little Time is set to release on 2/3/17 via Small Plates Records.

It’s been two years since the release of Hideout’s debut album Rookie, and in that time many things have changed for Rodriguez. Most tragically, the passing of his brother. So Many Hoops / So Little Time deals with grief in different spectrums –– the album ranges both sonically & lyrically from whimsical space-pop to crushing acoustic vulnerability. There isn’t a singular concept or message, but the deeper you delve into Hideout’s world the more you feel nostalgia and a sense of loss.

Hideout began as a recording project. The majority of Rookie was recorded while on the road with Cults. Rodriguez took advantage of the downtime by tracking songs in hotel rooms or at friends’ homes. Fast-forward to the forthcoming So Many Hoops, mixed by Loren Humphrey at Stockholm Syndrome Sound Studio in Bushwick, NY, the recording process was far more linear than Rookie. The album evolved predominantly at Rodriguez’s apartment while the surrounding turmoil of loss sunk in. Emotionally charged, he turned to the art of songwriting & storytelling to help navigate through the many answerless questions.

Now a fully realised band, Hideout has been performing live with a rotating cast of New York musicians over the past year. It’s just the beginning. Website here.

I think it's the vocals that initially gained my attention with 'Doctor'. They are distinct and just right for songs like this one. On reflection the music really is the foundation for the track and the subtle chorus harmonies are a treat, I look forward to hearing the album.

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The Argues - Run Till You Drop.

Background - An indie roots-rock family band, The Argues officially formed in Toronto in 2010 and are now based out of Springwater, Ontario –  the location of their studio and the place they park their touring van and trailer!

Fronting the band are sisters Sabrina Argue, 16, and Lauren Argue, 18, who have been wowing audience with their talent on vocals, multiple instruments and songwriting!  They are serious musicians and have led the band at countless live shows over the past five years.  With natural references to TV’s “The Partridge Family“, The Argues sound more like Tom Petty and The Lumineers.   The band performs rock, blues, country and folk covers but particularly enjoys performing their own catchy originals!

The band has performed many times on Rogers TV Toronto including a feature on the 2016 “The Best Of” Toronto Sessions finale and has been featured in the Toronto Star and on the cover of Toronto Today magazine. Their demo CD, recorded at Canada’s legendary Metalworks studio in 2010, has been played on college radio across Canada.  Band members Sabrina, Lauren, Chantale and Michael have charmed radio audiences with on-air antics, interviews and promotions including CKOC, CFRE, The Hawk,  Moose FM and Q107 Toronto’s Rock!

The Argues have shared the stage with amazing Canadian musicians including The David Love Band, Irene Torres and the Sugar Devils, JW Jones, and Jack DeKeyzer and have warmed the stage for Hotel California, April Wine and Finger Eleven.   Energizing theatres, bars, corporate events and festivals all over Ontario. Website here. 

Having read the above promo piece I was half expecting something that might not be an easy fit for Beehive Candy. 'Run Till You Drop' surprised me, as have all six songs in the collection. Musically they put out some bluesy and rocking material, vocals and harmonies are good (don't expect a Bourbon soaked Janis Joplin sound) and the songs are indeed melodic and pretty catchy. Thankfully they ain't The Partridge Family.

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Citizen of the World - In The Moment.

Background - With their new song, ‘In The Moment’, Citizen of the World explore their Indie-Pop side while maintaining the Folk feel that has come to define the sound of the band. The new release a reflection on intense moments when “living in the present” seemed like a good idea; it’s a celebration of past times with a melancholy undertone.

Citizen of the World has built on the success of the foot stomping Folk-Rock genre, popularised by the likes of Mumford & Sons, to carve a new genre described by one competition judge as “Epic Folk.”

Their last single ‘Embers’ was featured on MTV Upload and has reached over 100k plays across digital platforms since the release in May this year. Their previous single ‘Setting Out’ helped them reach both national and international audiences through triple j, and the internationally syndicated radio show Passport Approved. The song has just been chosen as a finalist in the 2016 Vanda and Young Songwriting Competition. In 2016, the band has been building their reputation as a must-see live act with recent performances such as supporting Woodlock at Plan B Small Club, and other artists such as Grizzlee Train, Rackett, Food Court and The Ruminaters at Coogee’s iconic venue Selina’s.

The song was recorded and mixed, as per tradition, in front man Gerrit’s living room (affectionately known as Bay Street Records). ’In The Moment' finds COTW exploring the depths of their Folk-Rock sound. Vulnerable vocals lead into layered and expansive choruses, proving the songwriting to be at its most uplifting and affecting yet. As with past releases acoustic guitars and beautiful harmonies and backing piano characterise the sound of the new single.

The soon-to-be-released music video for ‘In The Moment’, set in Sydney’s busy CBD, plays with the theme of time and provides appealing visuals to help transport the viewers and disconnect them from their daily routines. “In The Moment” will be released 11th of November 2016. Website here.

Our second feature for Citizen of the World this year, this time with the song 'In The Moment'. As mentioned above the band have veered towards indie pop a little with this song, however the vocals, and especially the harmonies keep their folk orientated feel. Gentler than some of the bands material, it's still a fine melodic and catchy piece.

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Sylva Faye - Blythe.

Background - Ambient-indietronica songwriter Sylva Faye has announced the release of new EP Blythe on November 21st, and title track Blythe has just been released. Sylva Faye is a multi-instrumental solo singer-songwriter creating Indietronica ambient folk music. Her fourth official “Blythe” EP release sees her individual talent combine electronic synths with organic instrumentation, including vocals, guitar, bass, flute (a session flautist for 9 years) and piano. The music has a dreamy ethereal quality to it, Sylva’s delicate vocal floating over the top with gentle inviting warmth.

The EP was recorded in and set over forty-eight hours of Sylva’s real life: visiting abandoned stately homes, silent night-driving, heading to the countryside from the city to reconnect with nature, waking up next to dying outdoor fires and dreamscapes. This narrative has an honesty and melancholic emotion to it that just poured from Sylva when she wrote the EP. This writing occurred during the heightened senses you have when you wake up on a hot summers day or late at night when the loneliness creeps whilst everyone else in the world is sleeping.

Although Sylva is a solo project she has been playing live in London for five years with a full band: Adam Martin (Bass), Will Rathbone-(Sax), Catherine Embleton (Keys), James Oldfield- (Guitar) and Danyal Ince (Drums). The band have played at credible venues including 02 Islington, Proud (Camden), Water Rats and 229 mesmerising audiences with their atmospheric, ambient, folk mélange. Previous support for Sylva’s EP’s releases to name but a few, comes from BBC introducing, BBC 6 music, BBC Beat Live, Faded Glamour, I Love Pie and When The Gramphone Rings. Facebook here.

Sylva EP launch - Monday 21st November @ The Finsbury, London.

Sylva Faye's vocals are adorable on 'Blythe', a gentle almost folk like song, where the delicate guitar and synth background is so very refined and inviting. I think one of the most over used terms PR companies use to describe a song is ethereal, which is a shame as this track cries out for that description, through and through, so the writer of the above material can have a well deserved pat on the back, for getting it spot on!

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Monday Mix: T. Ailey - The Blinding Lights - Darker Still

T. Ailey - It Goes.

Background - Introducing T. Ailey, a new vocal talent from Phoenix with a penchant for ethereal, other-worldly music. Her new single, "It Goes," out now on all streaming platforms, is proof positive of a uniquely talented songwriting and performing voice that draws on myriad influences for music that is equal parts familiar and original.

For best results, make sure to listen on a stereo system or quality headphones, the panning in this track makes this a 3D listening experience.

As she says's - I create with the intention to elicit deep emotion. There is much to be born from Inspiration as well as devastation. Feeling something is always better than feeling nothing at all. Website here.

Regardless of the 3D listening experience mentioned above, 'It Goes' is a creative and intriguing song. Vocally it's delightful and the rhythmic background that's kept low in the mix throughout, is just enough to take this from a pure acapella piece into something with more depth. Either way it's one hook laden piece.

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The Blinding Lights - Can't Get Enough.

Background - Channelling the sounds from some of the greatest eras of raw rock’n’roll and untamed pop, The Blinding Lights have poured their hearts into the exhilarating new single "Can’t Get Enough."

The four-piece may have been growing up a good half-century after the R’n’R explosion but they have embraced all that came before them, distilling the spirit, energy and excitement of the maximum R&B of the 60s, delicious pop hooks and the panoramic drama of Springsteen into their sound.

"Can't Get Enough" plots the tale of a young guy who gets a late night call from his amorous girlfriend summoning him to her place and, after a bus ride over, chronicles their encounter, describing how he is put through his paces to satisfy her throughout a night of raging passion. Wild, urgent and self-deprecating, it’s an electifying ride. And rather like the hot-blooded man in question, you probably can't get enough.

Written in early 2016 by bandleader Callum Lury, the track came about as he gorged on the songs of songwriter-producer Jim Steinman (the man behind Bat Out Of Hell and so much more), plus The Wild, The Innocent & The E Street Shuffle-era Springsteen. Playing around with riffs which would not have been out of place in the golden era of Motown, and shaking it up with a top layer of Steinman-style piano lines, he took it to the rest of the band who worked it up into a frantic rumbling rhythm & blues number, given a further flourish with a horn arrangement to drive it along. Website here.

With a smooth bass riff and upfront vocals 'Can't Get Enough' immediately blasts into action. It's only the lack of vinyl crackles and the sonic clarity, that gives away the fact that this is a modern piece. Beyond that, this could be a sixties recording. Far from being a nostalgia trip, the band have simply tapped into the energy and vibrancy of pure rock'n'roll, giving it some modern edge and relevance. Love it!

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Darker Still - Never Too Late.

Background - Rock is back, and it arrives with Darker Still. This gritty, knuckle grinding, powerhouse rock band shows us all why drums, bass, and a guitar is still the best way to kick ass and do it while looking good. Tony, Patrick, and Quinn somehow manage to feature all sides of rock in just a few short songs. Instantly catchy and unique, their music is wound around basslines that would make John Entwistle tap his foot. 

Throw on a soaring, raspy vocalist and killerguitar riffs, each song carves its way into your mind and reminds you why rock remains supreme. Currently sitting at #8 on the Canadian Rock Charts on Reverbnation. "I Had It All" has been #1 on the Global Rock Charts on NumberOnemusic for 19 straight weeks and #1 All Genres for 16 straight weeks. "Could There Be" was the most requested song of the day and number 4 on the weekend countdown. "I Had It All" is in rotation coas to coast on American radio stations and in Australia, UK, Ireland, Spain, and Canada.

Listeners online have streamed over 170,000 song plays just this year. Word is spreading about this "modern rock band with a sound that mirrors some [of the] greats (Canada's Music, 2015)." After placing 6th in Canada in Hardrock Rising, Darker Still performed at the Hardrock Cafe in Toronto. Inthe International Songwriting Competition, the band's song "I Had It All " placed in the semifinals forbest rock song. They were in an issue of Relix Magazine and are on the cd in the magazine with artistssuch as Tame Impala. Darker Still has opened for Zeus and for Jeff Martin. They have been a featured artist on TMB or The Music Box, as requested by fans. Darker Still was then included on the compilation CD that was distributed to The Music Box subscribers in December 2015.

“Never Too Late" is a single off their new self titled EP “Darker Still” that is scheduled for worldwide release on November 15th. It is currently in the top 10 on the DRT Rock National Airplay Chart and the EP is currently enjoying radio play on college stations nationwide. More here.

Darker Still produce and perform, down the line rock songs, that could have been recorded anytime during the past few decades. 'Never Too Late' is one of them. What I like is the fact they are not pretending to be anything other than a rock band, that loves writing, recording and playing rock songs. It's because their heart is in it, and for them it matters, that gives the band and their songs some real edge.

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