Saturday Seven: KingIV - Preampcity - Dolce - Strange Americans - Desert Mountain Tribe - ACES - Hundreds

KingIV - Like I'm Back.

Background - After rousing industry attention with her debut single 'No. One', Melbourne artist KingIV makes a heady return with 'Like I'm Back', and was officially released yesterday.

'Like I'm Back' heralds a more intricate approach for KingIV, whose bold previous single 'No. One' was spun on triple j's Good Nights. Intoxicating and breathless, but never falling too far into its own darkness, KingIV's latest offering delicately spins a world shaped by obsession.

Synths undulate and warp in a fitting mimicry of disorienting internal tension; testament to KingIV's innate ability to capture honest human emotion with electronic sound. Equal parts push and pull, inky and exhilarant, 'Like I'm Back' ultimately speaks from a platform of strength and self-possession. Facebook here.

The vocals provide the melody and the soundtrack adds rhythm and atmosphere making 'Like I'm Back' a very fine electro pop song, that's full of hooks.

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Preampcity - Mon Amie.

Background - Pre Amp City are a joyful and unexpected conundrum. A band that are difficult to define or pigeon-hole, much to their delight. Featuring incredibly talented artists and musicians from across Europe, their combined musical style is a venn diagram of genres and experiences, but each song contains hooks and instrumentalism that would make any pop/rock writer and producer sizzle with envy. The new single “Mon Amie” (out 22/02) is a light-hearted, sunshine pop number with ambient echoes of 80s influence in its delivery. It is melodic pop that lifts your spirits in every way and turns the corners of your mouth upwards. It only takes two listens and you are well and truly hooked.
 
Pre Amp City consists of musicians from Wales, Ireland, France, Spain, Germany and England. Their debut album “Escape” will be released in the spring, combined with the release of another single. Their debut single “No More” received critical acclaim, due to its poignant lyrics and evocative, no-holds-barred, politically influenced video. Band members include Fischer Z (John Watts), Pete Delgado, Katy Dann and John Constantine, all of which are the crème de la crème of bespoke artists and sessions musicians across the continent. This pool of talent has created a sound and production that is second to none. Facebook here.

Right from the opening moments 'Mon Amie' signals your in for some vibrant upbeat music, that is delivered with style. Vocals are enticing, the music playful and the overall feeling is wonderful.

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Dolce - Vänder Vrider.

Background - Umeå (Sweden) based Dolce has only existed as a band for about 2 years but has already been hailed in Swedish and international media, such as NME, Noisey, Festivalrykten (SWE) och Swedish radio. The Debut EP ”Gröna Höjder” (Green Heights) showed a naked, unadorned sound and Dolce hit the roads with the EP in the trunk. They toured with Amason, played SXSW in the US, Way Out West in Gothenburg, Sweden amongst many other praised concerts in Sweden. 

Next up was studio time with the producer Mattias Glavå (Dungen, Håkan Hellström i.a.) to record their debut album ”Av Liv och Grönska” (of Life and Greenery). Now, several months later, we get the first taste of a playful and incredibly beautiful album

The single ”Vänder, vrider" is the second single from the upcoming album "Av liv och grönska" Facebook here.

'Vänder Vrider' is a rich indie pop song, where the distinct and tempting vocals are supported by an increasingly expansive swirling musical soundtrack.

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Strange Americans - Big Black Car.

Background - Strange Americans release the first single from their upcoming third full length album 'Borrow You, Brother. The new track, "Big Black Car" is presented with a Bonnie & Clyde inspired video which Atwood said "captur[es] the voice of those who live for tomorrow and aspire for a better life."

"Set to a somewhat more lighthearted-but-still-rock, sometimes noisey soundscape, "Big Black Car" takes a joking-but-serious, pointed perspective on income inequality." explains singer Matt Hoffman, "A street-dwelling homeless person dreams up manufacturing a successful appearance and identity, occasionally slipping in and out of reality and the headaches of poverty."

Musically, Strange Americans’ third full-length album, 'Borrow You, Brother' remains committed to the general guitar-driven, blue-collar Americana rock element that permeates their earlier releases. This latest album, however, diverges in subtle ways : from the keys to the drums, bass and guitars, the sounds, tones and parts are more explorative. At times this means dynamic restraint, craft, control and beauty ; at others it means total freedom, chaos and noise.

Strange Americans will tour this month, with dates in Austin during SXSW, (see Beehive Candys tour page). Facebook here.

The music is slick, the vocals even slicker as 'Big Black Car' confidently strides along. Americana rock, there is enough edge to the track to give it a natural and addictive feel throughout.

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Desert Mountain Tribe - Enos In Space (Top Of The World) Youth Mix.

Background - London based psych rock trio Desert Mountain Tribe are releasing a new single. ‘Enos In Space (Top Of The World)’ has been mixed by multiple award winning producer Youth and heralds the start of a hectic release and international touring schedule for the band.

The original version of ‘Enos In Space’ was included on DMT’s debut album, ‘Either That Or The Moon’, which was released in March 2016 to excellent reviews. This new version is available digitally now, but also included on an EP, ‘Live At St Pancras Old Church’, which features live versions of four other album songs recorded at a recent show at that London venue. The EP is out digitally on 17th March, coinciding with a US tour that takes in several slots at the annual SXSW festival in Austin, Texas.

Upon their return from the US, DMT will play April dates in mainland Europe. A brand new four song studio EP, ‘If You Don’t Know Can You Don’t Know Köln’, will be released digitally on 14th April and as a limited gatefold 2x12” vinyl that incorporates the live EP. Facebook here.

'Enos In Space (Top Of The World)' is a powerful psych rocker, with bags of energy and a band that have clearly refined their sound. It's also exceptionally catchy.

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ACES - Baby, I Don’t Mean To Ignore.

Background - ACES new single is “Baby, I Don’t Mean To Ignore” and her debut Stranger EP, is coming out April 21st.

ACES’ new Stranger EP follows on the heels of her critically-acclaimed series of singles from the past two years, all of which are streaming in full via Spotify. ACES is pop music on muscle relaxers… it’s the bassy backing track with sparse beats that take a back seat to Stewart’s daydreaming vocals. 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 Stewart: the Canadian born, Brooklyn artist is the voice and direction of the project, which takes its name from her initials. A globe-trotting 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. As a writer and musician, Stewart may be seen as a master of stagecraft as much as songcraft. It’s more than a technique; it’s a manifestation of the world she’s creating around her. She builds ACES for herself, but invites the rest of us in. Website here, Facebook here.

We first featured ACES last November describing her vocals then as distinct, haunting and striking. New song 'Baby, I Don’t Mean To Ignore' ensures we can add melodic to our description, as this lo-fi electro song more than capably demonstrates.

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Hundreds - Un-Unify.

Background - After releasing critically acclaimed album Wilderness last year, German electro-pop duo Hundreds are back with visuals for the stunning "Un-Unify". Deeply submerged in the electronic sound world, the Hundreds siblings replace conventional pop music structures with flowing arrangements and unusual beats.

Un-Unify is a word created by the band, embodying a call for freedom in musical form. Danceable, lightfooted, and energy laden, the video for Un-Unify was shot by Gotta Love (the production team behind Small Sessions) in the legendary Funkhaus Berlin, the former seat of the DDR (East German) state radio.

The lyrics in Un-Unify encapsulate the singer's longing to learn how to fight, and untie from her union with one man. The video maps her journey of learning to fight - from meeting the dancers, who integrate her and help her grow stronger, to them helping her shift from one place to another, where the man she is longing for is waiting. After the successful album release and sold out release tour, the band will be back on tour in March 2017. 

Siblings Eva and Philipp Milner catapulted to internet success after releasing self-titled debut album, Hundreds, in 2010. Despite having no budget or radio airplay, the pair became one of the greatest German indie pop stories in recent times. Website here, Facebook here.

'Un-Unify' is a rhythmic and addictive electro pop song combining intricately crafted music and fabulous vocals. The video adds a further artistic dimension, Hundreds have produced another imaginative and pleasing song.

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Weekend Wonders: JFDR - Tow'rs - Lusterlit - The Dream Eaters - STACEY - Paloma - Laura & Greg

JFDR - Instant Patience.

Background - JFDR has released the video for "Instant Patience", directed by Samantha Shay and filmed/edited by Victoria Sendra. "Instant Patience" is the fourth video from JFDR's debut album 'Brazil'. Prior videos were Airborne, White Sun and Wires. When talking about the track/video JFDR stated, "Instant patience was written trying to channel my inner triangle - making a song out of three chords in a loop.

The lyrics are taken from love letters i received a long time ago. It's about randomness, connecting with someone, knowing you'll see them again.but that's the idea of instant patience- it's really a paradox, taking all meaning from the word patience and leaving the listener quite confused. The arrangement and production was stitched together by Shahzad Ismaily and composer Úlfur Hansson, who produced electronics on top. The music video was this complete trust exercise.

I went into the desert with wonderful creatives I had never met before. they asked me to trace the stark landscape with my hands, eyes, nose and elbows. they asked me to jump into the ocean when I didn't know how to beat the current. I asked them to make it black and white, so nobody could know the colours but us." Brazil will be released on March 17, 2017.

JFDR, the latest project from Iceland's Jófríður Ákadóttir (Samaris, Pascal Pinon, Gangly), is a blend of cyclical guitar parts, soft minimal soundscapes, and poetic wanderings of a journey that ends where it began. Drawing from classical, folk, and electronic backgrounds, JFDR amalgamates the sounds of changing seasons, her voice a current that moves through rough seas to smooth waters. But perhaps JFDR shines the most in her capacity as a wordsmith, employing rich imagery to evoke the subtle emotions embedded in each song. Facebook here.

Delicate and minimalist it may be however 'Instant Patience' is heavy on atmosphere and beauty. Another song where art and music combine, something that is increasingly a hallmark of Icelandic artists. Please feel free to join me in checking out all of JFDR's other material.

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Tow'rs - Helm.

Background - The grey inconclusive nature of life felt paralysing at times this year. In the midst of liminal spaces, fidelity was a reoccurring hope where there weren’t conclusions. 

And though we often operated out of a grey area of knowledge, it became an ongoing observation that fidelity to hope seemed more important than having answers. Fidelity to our marriages seemed more important than being right or getting our way. Fidelity to vulnerability seemed more important than protecting ourselves from the inevitable pain of community. Fidelity to social justice and human rights seemed more important than protecting our image or privilege.

Our hope for these songs is to invite you not into certainty, but into devotion to hope. A place we tried to operate in despite not being able to know or see the full outcome of that devotion. These are the poems of our year of “Grey Fidelity”. Facebook here.

Whilst I have nothing currently available to share from the new album, rather than tease you by saying just how wonderful all eleven songs are (and they are) I thought I would share a more recent video from Tow'rs in the shape of 'Helm'. At least this way you get an idea of just how good their songs really are.

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Lusterlit - Ceremony.

Background - Charlie Nieland tells us "I'm in a duo called Lusterlit with Susan Hwang.  We are part of Bushwick Book Club, in Brooklyn, a rotating group of songwriters and performers of all kinds putting on regular shows featuring new music, art and snacks inspired by a chosen work of literature. Susan founded it in 2009 and I've been a participant since 2013. Susan and I have been playing and recording together for several years and we released a couple of albums that I produced in the fall (Hopeful Monsters and  Everything Is Sateen: Five songs inspired by Vonnegut) and formed Lusterlit to perform our songs about books. We alternate lead vocals and harmonies while supporting each other on guitar, bass, synth, traditional Korean drum, accordion and more. Lusterlit toured the West Coast in November from Seattle to LA playing book related events and regular sets along the way.

Now we've completed or first EP as Lusterlit called List Of Equipment. Bringing our songs written for Bushwick Book Club to full technicolor life in these widescreen productions, Susan and I have made some studio magic with music ranging from indie rock to soul to shoegaze, reminiscent of PJ Harvey, Nick Cave and more. They're inspired by the books: Mastering The Art Of French Cooking - Julia Child, Blood Meridian - Cormac McCarthy, The Fortress Of Solitude - Jonathan Lethem and The Day Of The Triffids - John Wyndham.

I think you'll love the cinematic first track "Ceremony", inspired by Blood Meridian, which we wrote for the Seattle chapter of Bushwick Book Club when we were touring. Or the fierce, funny and dark "List Of Equipment". Or the 90's inspired alt of "Genius Of Love". Bandcamp here. Facebook here.

Charlie Nieland and Susan Hwang (Lusterlit) may be a duo, however they create expansive music that is beautifully layered as the melodic song 'Ceremony' demonstrates. The first EP comprises of five very individual and diverse tracks, sometimes more energised or a little darker in tone, but always intriguing.

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The Dream Eaters - We Are A Curse (Forthcoming Album).

Background - The Dream Eaters bring skin-tingling harmonies together as a dream-pop duo like no other. Blending the vocals of Jake Zavracky and Elizabeth LeBaron, their music will envelop and transform you. Formerly known as simply Jake and Elizabeth, the duo’s sound has evolved from classic shoe-gaze roots to a stripped down, dreamy and ethereal vocal focus. While they draw from a number of influences including dream pop, psychedelic, folk and rock genres, their sound stands in a category of its own, focused around the core of harmonious and haunting melodies.

The Dream Eaters story originated in 2015. After playing clubs with various projects and toiling in obscurity for years in his hometown of Boston and later New York City, Zavracky decided to give up the musicians dream and stop performing completely. Then, while working as a bartender at a dive bar in Brooklyn he met LeBaron, another bartender who had just relocated from Vancouver Island, BC. Discovering that they were fellow musicians, they began to collaborate and found an instant connection. As a composer and producer, Zavracky began writing songs for LeBaron to sing alone but soon found their voices blended together in harmony to create a wholly unique sound. With friends and a growing fanbase providing support, they released a number of EP’s and performed live as “Jake And Elizabeth.” As they began to further define their sound, they began performing under the name “The Dream Eaters.”

Their self-produced debut EP, Five Little Pills was released on June 23, 2016, as the first official release under their new band name. A bare-bones production that they self-recorded and released, it provided the precursor of solidifying their new sound and establishing the process they would use to record their first full-length debut album, We Are A Curse. The album is slated for release in late spring (April 14th). Website here, Facebook here.

Again at this moment I can only tell you how fabulous The Dream Eaters forthcoming album is, however I can share their debut EP from last year. Taking nothing away from their first release, the new album seemingly upgrades every aspect of their music, in part because of the stunning production. As demonstrated by the EP, melodies, vocals and harmonies are the cornerstone of the music. Everything has a natural and sometimes quite personal feel running through the songs, where dreamy vocals are never far away.

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STACEY - First Move.

Background and we quote - it breathes
like the character of its narrative;
with hesitation
& warm swells of choral pleasures

a magnification of before-moments
seconds that simmer in undecided air
love not yet unrequited nor confirmed
elusive

delivered via silk vocals & synth plumes
style borrowed from a cocktail of decades

laced with casual persuasion
laid-back urgency
& unabashed confession

oftentimes unresolved
we relinquish

Written by Stacey, produced by Derek Hoffman & Alan Day. Website here, Facebook here.

'First Move' is a slow melodic pop song with masses of feeling. A minute or so in to the track and the words above begin to make sense and poetically describe the musical journey you are on.

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Paloma - Touch.

Background - Paloma have shared new track "Touch". "It's about a diamond in the rough," the band explains, "Somewhat of a tramp. A certain someone who didn't quite know how to believe in them self. Until he meets this princess of sorts that did. When they both turn to real life, he's banking on the idea that we're only half way through the film. That the story isn't finished yet." It's the first song released from their upcoming debut EP, Luna, out this April 28th

Paloma was born of the struggle to navigate the harrowing societal construct typical of suburban Los Angeles. It is the answer for learning to balance the need to make ends meet while expressing the irrepressible creativity brooding inside. The band officially began in a small bedroom studio with several ideas being deconstructed over and over again as every artist can relate to. It wasn’t until Nick and Victor invited the masterful keyboardist and local legend Steven Doman to the studio that the band finally grasped the scope of their newly created sound. In a place where one’s inherent value is often picked apart according to attributes of wealth and beauty, Paloma is truly an escapist’s musical paradise. Paloma is Victor Martinez, Steven Doman, and Nick Mariotti. Facebook here.

A smooth flowing alt rock feel with hints of psychedelic influence make 'Touch' a captivating song right from the word go. Vocals drift above the soundtrack adding some melody and even more feeling, in this blissful piece.

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Laura & Greg - Muscle Memory.

Background - New York City based band, Laura & Greg make catchy pop songs, blending influences from 60's pop, garage and folk with close harmonies and introspective lyrics.

Originally self-released a couple years ago, Paper Garden is excited to announce the re-issue of the album, "Forever For Sure," this coming Friday, March 3rd. 

To coincide with the release, Laura & Greg will be performing a free show at Chelsea Market in NYC as their official record release show - in conjunction with our ongoing "Chelsea Nights" concert series. Facebook here.

'Muscle Memory' is the first of eleven tracks on the bands 'Forever For Sure' album. Re-issued today by Paper Garden Records, a label that has a knack for finding some vibrant artists, I'm glad they did with Laura and Greg as this is a dazzling selection of songs, as the featured track demonstrates.

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Four On Thursday: Bordeen - Minus the Bear - The Darling Buds - The History of Colour TV

Bordeen - Ocean Tide.

Background from Bordeen - We're an Indie Pop band from just north of Toronto. As siblings, we are quite different, but as musicians, we come together forming something original.

This song is about accepting the things in life that are out of your control and being ok with that. There’s a certain melancholy about it, but through surrender, there’s a greater hope. Once you get past certain realities and experiences you can reach a deeper sense of joy.

We’ve decided to call our upcoming album, “Stiver” after the street where we grew up. As a collection of songs it’s a representation of more than just one concentrated writing session. The songs were written over a period of time where we had the chance to come together in a place that had fostered creativity and musical expression for a long period of our lives.

Ocean Tide the video depicts a sense of longing, a hopeful tone, a yearning, a journey of discovery, moving from a place of overwhelm into a moment of solidarity. Facebook here.

A gentle soundtrack that builds enough to give the song a fuller sound, sits behind beautiful vocals that duet and harmonise wonderfully. 'Ocean Tide' is a melodic indie pop song that oozes charm.

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Minus the Bear -  What About the Boat? 

Background - Minus the Bear are eagerly anticipating the release their new album this coming Friday, March 3rd. Voids marks the Seattle band’s first new full-length in five years and is also their return to their original label home, the venerable Suicide Squeeze Records. Fans interested in getting one last preview of the new songs found on the album before its release later this week can stream the song 'What About The Boat'.

For the past 15 years Minus the Bear have made music on their own terms while carving out their own unique musical world, selling over 500k records in the process and playing to countless sold out crowds along the way. This isn’t to say they’re impervious to outside influence. They’ve borrowed components from a wide swath of genres—the brainy clangor of New York’s proto-punk scene, the cerebral buzz of IDM, the poptimist evaluation of hip-hop and R&B, and the grandiose visions of prog rock—but always managed to defy classification.

Minus The Bear is Jake Snider (vocals, guitar), Dave Knudson (guitar), Cory Murchy (bass guitar), and Alex Rose (synthesizers, vocals).

Suicide Squeeze Records is proud to release Voids to the world on March 3rd, 2017 on CD, LP and cassette. The first pressing of the album is available on 1,000 copies of Electric Blue (Minus The Bear exclusive) vinyl, 5,000 copies of splatter colored vinyl and 5,000 copies of 180 gram black vinyl. The LP jacket features PMS inks, a die-cut cover with a printed inner sleeve and contains a download code. The cassette version is limited to 500 copies and also includes a download code. Website here. 

There is a loose and laid back alt rock feel that introduces 'What About the Boat?' The band add some layers of sound whilst the vocals are just right for the song and the style.

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The Darling Buds - Complicated.

Background - The return of The Darling Buds! Odd Box are absolutely delighted to be releasing a brand new EP by The Darling Buds, their first for 25 years! The Evergreen EP will be out on 21st April.

After a few years of occasional gigging just for fun, The Darling Buds are delighted to be releasing a new 4 track ep 'Evergreen' on Odd Box Records. This will be the first new material released by the Buds for over 25 years (back in the day they did 3 session for the much missed DJ John Peel) and these new recordings continue the musical evolution seen by the band from their indie pop debut Pop Said to their last release Erotica.

The EP is being released on 10" vinyl (100 green, 400 black), cassette (100) and digital download. You can pre-order the EP now on our bandcamp. These are already flying off the virtual bandcamp shelves, Bandcamp here.

'Complicated' is one of four songs on the The Darling Buds new EP. Indie pop with a good helping of rock'n'roll gives the featured track, some energy and passionate edge.

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The History of Colour TV - As Gray As Park Can Be.

Background -  Berlin-based trio The History of Colour TV presents ‘As Gray As Park Can Be’, the second single from their forthcoming third LP 'Something Like Eternity', which is slated for release on March 17 via France’s Crane Records.

The back story to this album is inspired by the band’s desire to work with notable producer Peter Deimel (The Wedding Present, Shellac, The Ex), for which they travelled to France in the spring of 2016 to record with him at the legendary Black Box Recording Studio. Days of making music in the French countryside, close to the Loire Valley, saw them depart from their previous sound, instead bringing a raw, minimalist aesthetic to the new release.

This new track follows the first single 'Wreck' from this album. Stylistically, these are both dynamic and open live recordings with minimal overdubs and, in this respect, they represent a snapshot of the album as a whole. Based on narrative themes, these songs blend melodic sensibilities with ragged guitar textures. The first track builds nicely on melancholic arpeggio patterns. Website here, Facebook here.

'As Gray As Park Can Be' is one of eleven tracks on the bands third album 'Something Like Eternity'. This is the second song we have featured and gives some idea of what to expect. Mixing ambient moments with some fine melodies, alongside some potent rock and walls of sound, your taken in all directions whilst enjoying a consistent ride. Check out the other song we shared and if you half like them both, you will love the whole album.

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Midweek Muse: Odd Couple - Locomotive Ghost - Wren Klauf - Seafoam Green - MOLLYANNA

Odd Couple - Gone Solid.

Background - Alchemically fusing krautrock and hip hop elements, Odd Couple deliver a feral anthem in ‘Gone Solid’ ahead of their album ‘Flügge’ set for release April 21st.

About Odd Couple & ‘Flügge’ (Album) Since arriving in Berlin six years ago to a revolving circus of hepcats, drugs, and trendy hangouts, Odd Couple duo Tammo Dehn and Jascha Kreft, (two kindergarten pals from Ostfriesland), still feel out of place. Perhaps it’s typified in their name - an assertion of strange outsiderness, but together the duo weave a kind of art that dredges up the nuggets of rock’s dinosaur past and infuses it with a thoroughgoing modern approach to recording sound. When the duo started working on their debut It’s A Pressure To Meet You, released two years ago, their style was still very much in its embryonic stages. Now for second album Flügge (meaning “independent” or “to spread one’s wings” in German), the band feel like they’re taking another shot at the start.

Shearing their sultry garage-rock archaisms in favour of a grander, looser, style that takes influence from hip hop and the kosmische musik experimentation of West Germany in the seventies, Flügge is a different beast entirely, and one which Germany, and the wider world, hasn’t heard the likes of yet. A mouthpiece for millennial disaffection, Odd Couple’s new album brims with introspection and self-discovery. It’s a clever dissection of the things making our generation unhappy, and a nod towards the possible solutions in store. Mostly though, it’s a profoundly hard-hitting and deftly-delivered sonic assault that paves the way for a new rock renaissance. Odd Couple are everyman and every woman, living in these dangerous times with the fear of uncertainty, but hell bent on spreading their wings and soaring high. Website here, Facebook here.

Odd Couple have power and creativity as 'Gone Solid' very well demonstrates. The core is a solid rock beat around which vocals and guitars whirl, ensuring your not always sure what is going to happen next.

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Locomotive Ghost - Fool (Radio Edit).

Background - Locomotive Ghost plays their own stories, sharing desperate moments, celebrating mended hearts, and owning up to mistakes. The group’s earnest performance and shared male/female vocals have been likened to The Head and the Heart, while their pop sensibilities have yielded comparisons to acts like Of Monsters and Men and The Lumineers. Locomotive Ghost’s music is “at once artistically expressive, accessible, fun, and full of small surprises” (Avenue Calgary).

Locomotive Ghost recently recorded their fourth full-length release, “Into the Glow”, with award-winning producers Russell Broom and Spencer Cheyne. The group supported the project with a successful crowdfunding campaign in the spring of 2016. In writing their new music, the group intentionally combined each individual’s strengths to create a pool of the most expressive, ardent, and catchy songs from which to choose. “Into the Glow” will be released in early 2017 and will be preceded by the first single, “Fool”.

To date, Locomotive Ghost has released two albums, four EPs, one compilation, and one single. The group gained industry accolades for the ambitious and holistic creative approach to their year-long, self-produced “Seasons” project. In 2015, Locomotive Ghost began their collaboration with producer Spencer Cheyne when they released their single “In The Garden”. Later that year, they became the first contemporary music act to be featured at Calgary’s Bella Concert Hall. Locomotive Ghost has been highlighted on a dozen Canadian radio stations and several international podcasts, including the popular show “This Week In Science”. The group has performed at nearly two hundred events throughout Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan (and, according to Beatroute Alberta, “belongs on any festival stage in Canada”).

Locomotive Ghost was formed by singer Mike Buckley and bassist Ben Nixon while they were attending Selkirk College’s music program in Nelson, BC. They played together off-and-on for nearly a year before focusing on the project and settling on a name (taken from an Allen Ginsberg poem). After graduating from music school, Buckley and Nixon relocated to Calgary, where they eventually added vocalist/pianist Laura Schoenberg and drummer James Bundy. Website here, Facebook here. Tour dates on our tour page.

'Fool'  is one of twelve songs on the new album 'Into The Glow'. The new collection of songs takes the band in differing directions, there is plenty of melodies, alongside high quality musicianship. Vocals and harmonies are notable throughout, and the band are more than capable of changing the moods and emotional feelings, making the whole piece one superb listen.

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Wren Klauf - Gawk.

Background - Wren Klauf is the alluring, collaborative musical and visual project brought together by Sam Faulkner in early 2014 on the Gold Coast. Beginning as a solo venture, now backed by Bradyn Caneris (guitar), Steven Dalamaras (bass) and Niall McDicken (drums), the concept's design slowly, but surely, developed into something quite audacious and far more colourful.

Wren Klauf are proud as punch to today release their second EP into the world. After making a global impact with their previous single, 'Spellbound', "Gawk" is out now via GD FRNDS. Hand crafted with love embrued into every stitch, lyric and musical lick, "Gawk" is every bit of an AV experience as possible. Composed as an audio, visual and wearable collaboration between eccentric rock-pop musical outfit Wren Klauf and bubble-gum pop visual artist and designer, Kiah the Label (KTL).

Using the crunchy psych aural backdrop of Wren Klauf, the lucid and airy designs of KTL and vice versa, "Gawk" was conceived out of the two creative factions' love of art and music. Now in its fully wicked and realised format, "Gawk" is a true trial against experi-pop and math-rock. First single, 'Spellbound' is Wren Klauf's foray into powerful '90s guitar sounds while 'Okay' sees Faulkner (vocals, guitar) take full power of his wild lyricism and ambiguous vocal prowess. Facebook here.

Four quite individual songs ensure 'Gawk' is a highly likable collection of tracks, where the bands core sound, dives off into different ideas and makes for some feisty and pleasing music.

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Seafoam Green - Down The River.

Background - The genesis of Seafoam Green followed a chance meeting with Rich Robinson during recording sessions in Nashville. O’Grady was invited by Robinson to open his US and European tour dates and soon the pair began writing and recording in earnest, leading to their collaboration on the stunning debut album.

Debut album ‘Topanga Mansion’ was recorded at 4th Street Recording in Santa Monica, California and is a fine collection of melodic folk and rock jam Americana with an all round warm sound that invites the listener into its intricacies. Encompassing O’Grady’s varied influences from Creedence Clearwater Revival to Aslan and Christy Moore, the sounds of Nashville, Irish storytelling and more recently the sounds of Liverpool where O’Grady currently resides, it’s a mansion in itself of extravagant beautiful musical décor.

“The first time I heard John Fogerty sing I was like “what is that!!?? and how do I do it?” says O’Grady and in tracks like ‘Down The River’ we can hear footprints of CCR as the track explodes with a whiskey-soaked, gospel-harmony, truck-driving classic rock power that’s just plain awesome. More melodic moments like ‘Celtic Wonderings’ shows another side with its contemplative accomplished folk finger-picking stylings and beautiful backdrop of pedal steel and strings and O’Gradys’ hushed well-worn voice rising above in a haze of wondering. “The thing I love about Irish folk music is the story telling, the poetic phrasing that passes through verses live waves over sand or stones, no two verses are the same as they are telling a different part of the story and project a different image.” Adds O’Grady.

2017 is shaping up to be a year of playing, travelling and meeting people for Seafoam Green and with Topanga Mansion coming out on double vinyl on Liverpool’s Mellowtone Records, O’Grady is coming out of the shadows with a quality of songwriting and music that will no doubt place him at the top of the UK’s Americana, folk and indie scenes. Topanga Mansion has been supported by Merseyside Arts Foundation using funding from PRS for Music Foundation. Tour dates on our tour page, website here, Facebook here.

The very mention of Rich Robinson immediately had me intrigued. 'Down The River' clearly has a sprinkling of his influence, however Seafoam Green have delivered one stunning rock piece here with all the flavour and vibes a classic southern rock song should have. Having looked at the other influences and styles cited above, I think this is another must hear and have album on it's way.

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MOLLYANNA - Louder.

Background - Raw, distorted guitars meet gritty synth and powerful vocals - MOLLYANNA are dark, dramatic and uncompromising. Their heavy sound and energetic performances make for an unforgettable live show. MOLLYANNA have supported Joseph on their UK tour, and Kate Jackson, (formerly of The Long Blondes), appeared at Tramlines and won the 2016 SYFN award for Best Song in their annual music video awards.

 “Louder,” is a flawless track which we have really high hopes for. Everything from the effortless vocals to the overall composition of the song is perfect and we are excited to see it grow.

To celebrate the official release of the track on 18th March, MOLLYANNA have recently announced that they will be playing a special show at a secret location in Sheffield. If you pay £1 at the door of the venue, you will get a free download code for the track as well as the chance to see the group perform it live. Find out more on their Facebook page here. Website here.

A slow rhythm, alongside developing music and melody underpin some very fine vocals. 'Louder' builds into a powerful, epic rock song, awash with drama and emotion.

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Quality Not Quantity: Bella Figura - Ainslie Wills - Strange Lot

Bella Figura - Didn't Love You.

Background - London rock trio Bella Figura announce the release of their new single ‘Didn’t Love You’ on 31st March and the launch of new label Tourino Records coinciding with a week of shows in London in benefit of The Youth Music Charity. Bella Figura have built a strong London following with a sound that has cut deeply into the London scene with cerebral poetic lyricism but also has blown away audiences with its sheer raw power.

Recently packing out major London venues and performing at Larmer Tree, 2000 Trees, The Great Escape, Reeperbahn, the Dr. Martens: Stand For Something Tour and the Music Week Radar Showcase, as well as being selected to perform (solo) for the highly respected Coffee House Tour, the band are on an emotionally charged rollercoaster which looks set to continue to bring them critical acclaim and legions of new followers.

New single ‘Didn’t Love You’ taken from the band’s latest EP ‘Forever Lost’ continues to push the American west coast sounds of the 60’s and 70’s forward in a psychedelic blues driven swirl of intoxicating regret and anguish that nourishes as much as it does engage. Powerfully cathartic yet immediately impacting, the track deals with the labyrinth of emotions and the guarding of the self involved in becoming close to someone which is plainly laid bare in the main track hook lyric: “When I said I didn’t love you, I lied”.

The band’s frontman Justin Gartry, who is in one moment a musical monster and in the next has the sentiment of a gentle giant, is set to become the centre of his own musical scene with the launch of this single coinciding with a week of gigs being setup for some very exciting new artists and alter egos and new musical incarnations of Gartry’s as part of the Give-A-Gig week in aid of the Youth Music Charity and coalescing together Gartry’s own new independent record label Tourino Records. Facebook (live info and more) here.

'Didn't Love You' explains the love Bella Figura have been receiving around London and beyond. The band pack energy and emotion into the song, a timeless rock'n'roll piece where the music and vocals take it in turn to dominate, definitely on our radar.

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Ainslie Wills - Constellations (Live at Willow Grove).

Background - Last year was a fantastic year for Ainslie Wills, she travelled to the UK for her first international tour with shows supporting Grouplove , toured with Bernard Fanning, had a successful Bigsound showcase and charted in the European ITunes Charts.

This year she is heading back to the Europe for a 16 date tour supporting Tom Chaplin (Keane) and will be performing at 2,000 cap venues across the UK. She also has upcoming shows in Melbourne on the 18th April and Sydney on the 19th & 20th April supporting UK soul singer Michael Kiwanuka

Ainslie Wills has just released a live video of her song 'Constellations' at Willow Grove, in regional Victoria, Australia the video was filmed and edited by Wilk.

 Genre-bending third record Oh The Gold EP was released last year, a follow-up to 2013’s Australian Music Prize nominated album You Go Your Way, I'll Go Mine. Wills quickly caught the eyes of tastemakers - with lead single Drive being added to full rotation on triple j.

“All the ingredients of mature pop bliss lie in the work of Ainslie Wills,” said The Guardian of an artist who is as diverse and capable as she is true to her own distinctive, progressive pop sound that captures the listener instantly. A hit outside her home country as well, the EP was picked up in the UK, becoming Lauren Laverne’s Track Of The Day on her BBC Radio 6 programme and played twice on Guy Garvey’s Finest Hour, also on BBC6.

Ainslie Wills and Lawrence Folvig set out to create music that is both musically distinct and earnestly delivered; a feat she achieves through unfalteringly strong vocals and quietly profound lyricism matched with complex, thought-provoking melodies. 2016 promises international forays and the release of more material she has tucked up her sleeve – keep your eyes firmly peeled. Live dates on the Beehive Candy tour page, Facebook here, website here.

Exquisite vocals and harmonies, tease the listener into a relaxed state before the band demand your attention. 'Constellations (Live at Willow Grove)' comes into it's own performed live. One of six songs from the 'Oh The Gold' EP, it's a taste of something very good.

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Strange Lot - Have It Your Way.

Background - Strange Lot have shared "Have It Your Way," the title track from their forthcoming LP, out this Friday March 3rd. The track is part of their sophomore record 'Gods & Clods,' coming out this Friday.

Strange Lot's psychedelic sound channels the desert backdrop of their native Arizona. What began in the summer of 2014 as a bedroom solo project for Dominic Mena (guitar/vocals), evolved into a full band, fleshed out by Tim Lormor on drums and David Dennis on bass guitar. Last year, the band supported international acts The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Tijuana Panthers, Night Beats, and Kikagaku Moyo.

Their first full-length 'Another Mind' (2015) reached #73 in the CMJ TOP 200, while The Phoenix New Times named it one of the 20 Best Records of the year. "Hints of early Tame Impala and Mac DeMarco’s nonchalance, the record encapsulates a young band discovering their sound in a pressure-free environment," praised Consequence of Sound.

Drawing upon influences from the bands affinity for Ennio Morricone soundtracks, their upcoming LP, 'Gods & Clods,' touches on the disappearance of middle class in this society. Recorded on an Otari 8-track tape machine, the tracks were mastered by Joe Lambert (Deerhunter, Animal Collective, Washed Out). Facebook here, live dates on the Beehive Candy tour page.

From a simple bass intro 'Have It Your Way' grows into a fabulous psychedelic song, with vocals and music seemingly merging with each other. It took me a couple of listens, however I have to say, this one really has grown on me.

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Monday Mix: Traveller - John Mellencamp - Club Kuru - Elouise - Carl Louis

Traveller - All This Time.

Background - The summer of 2012 saw Gerry Sheridan and Simon Usher begin their songwriting partnership, which progressed to become Traveller in January 2016 when they were joined by Martin Yves on guitar and Brian Socha on bass.

By spring 2016 the band had written and recorded their debut EP at Chamber Studios in Edinburgh. Taking just four days to complete, 'All This Time' enabled Traveller to connect to an ever growing fanbase who are drawn to their Anthemic Rock wall of sound.

"There’s a sonic harmony that is often created by the band during rehearsals and it’s often from this that sparks the imagination to write" explains Simon. "We write about life’s journey, from the people we meet along the way to all the various experiences that we have, both good or bad..." Website here, Facebook here.

Not exactly brand new, however having received a piece on the band, I wanted to give them a feature because the EP that 'All This Time' is taken from, is such a fine collection of alt rock music. Mixing high quality musicianship, natural rock vocals and well written tracks seems more than enough to play a little catch up with the band.

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John Mellencamp - Grandview.

Background - On April 28th, Heartland rocker John Mellencamp will release his 23rd full-length album, Sad Clowns & Hillbillies featuring Carlene Carter, the daughter of June Carter Cash and stepdaughter of Johnny Cash, on Republic Records.  Sad Clowns & Hillbillies returns Mellencamp to the musical eclecticism that is, itself, a reflection of his wide-ranging musings on life. John Mellencamp is an authentic voice of American music and master storyteller with a commitment to creating traditional rock & roll, bittersweet songs of happiness and melancholia, and fervent political dissent. His passions and experiences resonate beautifully in this showcase of his music.  Sad Clowns & Hillbillies is produced by John Mellencamp.

Mellencamp’s new single is “Grandview” featuring Country music star Martina McBride. He released the track, Easy Target in January as a continuation of Mellencamp’s journey to convey the truth through this passionate and plain-spoken song. The video's release occurred on the eve of the inauguration. The song focuses on the Black Lives Matter movement as well as gun violence in America. Fans who pre-order Sad Clowns & Hillbillies will get an instant download of Grandview and Easy Target.

This summer, Mellencamp will tour for 22 stops across North America for his all-new Sad Clowns & Hillbillies tour kicking off on June 5th in Denver, Colorado with special guests, Emmylou Harris, tour-mate Carlene Carter and Lily & Madeleine. Website (including tour and pre-order details)  here.

If John Mellencamp needs any introduction, then you really do have a massive back catalogue of music to work your way through. New song 'Grandview' signals that a new album is on it's way, and the featured track suggests there are still plenty of ideas and thoughts to be shared from one of rock'n'rolls finest.

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Club Kuru - Giving In.

Background - Club Kuru are a British five-piece band, fronted by Laurie Erskine.

Beginning as Erskine's solo project, the current, psychedelic incarnation of Club Kuru developed through the process of him searching for his sound; one which truly incorporated his influences and character. Joining forces with Graham Godfrey (co-producer and drummer) and close friends Fergus Ireland (bass), Laurence Hammerton (guitar) and Jess Berry (vocals), in 2016 the group built their own studio in north east London and began their journey as a songwriting and production tour de force. "We really wanted to do everything ourselves. It was a case of laying it all out on the table and seeing what worked."

Collectively, the band cite influences from modern day artists such as Mac DeMarco, Tame Impala and Connan Mockasin, to classic greats including Shuggie Otis, Vangelis, Herbie Hancock and Quincy Jones. There's a summery west coast vibe to their sonic output, mixed with some sleazy Americana, but ultimately the band are spearheading something unique; they're putting their British take on a US heritage sound - and it works. Website here, Facebook here.

We featured Club Kuru last June and new song 'Giving In' is another beautiful and melodic track. Dreamy psych sounds flow and twist around, as the vocals sooth.

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Elouise - Saturn Bar.

Background - An original booze-sodden cry from America’s trailer park soul. Elouise Walker tells us the story of the song.

Saturn Bar is a sonic homage to my favorite dive in the Ninth Ward. I hung out there whenever I found myself in NOLA. It was long before the big flood. I heard about it from a lawyer after our cars collided outside New Orleans. I asked the nice southern gentleman for a good dive bar recommendation. The Saturn Bar came up.

He did not think I should go there alone and said I may not be able to get a cab out. He warned that most cabs didn't go out there late at night because the neighborhood was dangerous after dark. So of course...I went.

My journey began with a cab driver hopped up on speed. He was sweating, jittery and had a loaded gun on the front seat when he picked me up. He told me he was itching to shoot a car jacker that night because it just became legal.

He kept looking back at me and playing with his gun. In a moment that seemed like it would never end, I stared past the windshield at the southern stars and the black night sky on the other side of the tracks as the train rushed in front of us. In an agitated state, he went on and on about his murderous plans. I thought that was it for me, but sure enough, a few minutes later we pulled up to the dingy corner neighborhood establishment. The street was all dark except for a little old flickering sign with the planet Saturn on it. 

In a strangely protective tone, the driver asked me if I wanted him to wait outside. I declined and took my chances with the unknown. I was not sure I was gonna make it out on that one, but I did... and I definitely had earned a few drinks. It was never too crowded when I went there. Just a smattering of local bar flies here and there. O'Neil, the proprietor, was quite the host and would try to get the ladies to try on a pair of pink satin panties he kept behind the bar. He had pictures of past models (I am using that word liberally) that he was more than happy to show to anyone with interest. 

A cat sauntered across the bar rubbing it's fur against the container of straws. A chicken wandered about. A cockroach lay belly up right in front of the women's toilet. The beer was cold and the liquor was cheap but the bar was like nothing I had seen. It was dark, mysterious and a hoarders delight. It was scary. It was friendly. It was a whole other level of reality. It was Heaven. It was Hell.

The place was filled with murals and art and curiosities lit up only by colored neon lights. One of the patrons, Mike Frolich, had painted the murals as a make shift art gallery for the local children since it was a poor neighborhood and there were no museums in that area. Demons being ridden by whores, red skies and ships sailing to the New World.

I had long intoxicating discussions that I don't remember with O'Neil, other patrons and the local city trash collector who gave me a ride home in his '67 Ford. With old 12 inch wooden framed speakers mounted to the backs of the vinyl seats, he drove like a drunk bat out of Hell, blaring distorted music and making great efforts to try and run people down. It was a game he played after closing time. Making people literally jump out of the way of his swerving maniacal Galaxy. The journey was other worldly from start to finish. I looked up the bar after penning the song a few years ago and was sad to see that O'Neil, the owner, had died right after the flood. I am sure it was the ruin of his beloved alternate Universe that killed him.

The bands website is here, plus you can also download the track through Soundcloud. I have spoken highly of Elouise before and the chance to feature another track from their incredible album is an absolute pleasure. Put simply the band are unique, exceptional and should be heard!

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Carl Louis - Come With Me (feat. Frøder).

Background -  Growing up on the Nordic coastline, producer Carl Louis has spent much of his career broadening his musical horizons with a number of notable credits to his name. Originally a member of electronic duo CLMD, Louis co-produced a number of notable releases including ‘Stockholm Syndrome’, which went multi-platinum in Norway and was also premiered on Pete Tong’s Radio 1 show. Afterward, Louis left the group in 2014 to pursue his own personal ambitions.

Having spent the last few years producing singles for other artists, including ARY’s debut single ‘Higher’, as well as releasing his own mini-album in 2015, Lewis has now returned to deliver his latest full-length ‘Memory Lane’.

While its title may suggest a more nostalgic sound, his latest material is a smorgasbord of contemporary influences and inspirations. With a largely classical direction, the mix of ideas and directions on his latest release are clear throughout.

Its opener and lead single ‘Come With Me’ sees the producer create an uplifting and powerful introduction, which sees him collaborate once again with Spotify Spotlight artist and ‘Stockholm Syndrome’ vocalist Frøder, and was released on the 24th February 2017 via Toothfairy. Facebook here.

A feast of sounds, beautiful vocals and a rhythmic and melodic vibe throughout ensures 'Come With Me' digs it's hooks in deep. Fabulous song.

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Sundays Finest: Sera - Emma Elisabeth - VACAY - Mount Song

Sera - Doctor.

Background - Sera, an alternative pop/rock band from Brisbane, are proud to announce the release of their upcoming EP Call Me Up. The band debuted in February 2016 with their first single “Doubt Around Me”, a swing-pop track that got people singing and earned rotation on 4ZZZ and attention with 96.5FM.

Since their launch, they have released 3 singles and in late 2016 returned to the studio to record their debut EP, Call Me Up. The EP was recorded at Airlock Studios with producer Yanto Browning of The Medics, Kate Miller-Heidke and Art of Sleeping fame and was named for the EP’s focus on confidence and encouraging people to step up and make it happen.

The songs chosen for the EP were their favourites from the newest material, and ‘Doctor’ is the lead single and first taste of the EP. As close friends, they have been playing together for a decade, initially playing a sound resembling Regina Spektor crossed with Paramore. Their songwriting has developed since the band’s inception, and they’ve been able to create a defined pop/rock sound, far removed from where they started. Having played various festivals including the Teneriffe and Caxton Street Food & Wine Festival’s music and performance has become a staple for Sera reaching new audiences. ‘Doctor’ will be in Digital Stores on the 3rd of March Call Me Up EP by Sera will be released 17th of March 2017. Website here, Facebook here.

Fresh and upbeat pop and rock combine to make 'Doctor' stand out in a crowd. The overall production adds depth and detail to the song. It might be a tried and tested musical style, but the band ensure their own personal mark is definitely there, and pretty certain to be noticed.

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Emma Elisabeth - Dying Inside You.

Background - Emma Elisabeth writes effortlessly flowing popmelodies covering them in a jangly, organic sound. Her sound is distinctive and playful with a very classic approach to songwriting. Her heart is beating for fuzzy rock and country, while pop music is pouring out of her soul. Elegantly intoxicated and somewhat channeling elements of 90's melancholia and 70's vocal arrangements. 

Her crush on women like Stevie, Debbie, Dolly, Patti and Marianne is a source of inspiration. As is her fascination with dirty old New York, West Coast Rock and heroes like Lou, Bob and Neil. In a world where everything seems to be so polished and perfect, she's got a thing for imperfections. Because that is what makes someone or something interesting. And why should it be any different in music?

Dying inside you - "To me this song is bittersweet. It's got a smile on it's face but sad eyes, which I guess I had at the time it was written. And it's about not fully being able to understand someone, and getting lost in their beauty, which can quickly turn into a maze which you can't find your way out of. Like a haunted house in an amusement park" Facebook here.

Immediately catchy and with a warm melodic feel throughout 'Dying Inside You' is a pop song with enough rock vibes to give it some additional edge.

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VACAY - Shoes.

Background - The inspiration for “Shoes” came from a girl that I worked with. I had a massive crush on her and we connected really well, but she was getting married. I wrote this song to get the jealousy and pain off of my chest.

The silver lining to going through pain is what you learn through the situation and of course, the honest songs that come from it. Based on my past experiences, the songs that speak the most to me are the ones that are saying the words I felt but couldn’t find. My hope is that this song will relate to many people’s situations. If they are going through something similar, that they’d find comfort in knowing they are not alone. Facebook here.

It's the vocals that struck me first on 'Shoes'. There is considerable quality within the musicianship, and the melodic feel is quite catchy, however VACAY makes the song, with striking and extremely pleasing vocals.

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Mount Song - Halo.

Background - Jacob Johansson (Det Stora Monstret/The Big Monster) is pleased to share the first single from his new project 'Mount Song' today. Intimate, heavy and explosive, 'Halo' is a dark yet optimistic track that explore the sadness that accompanies dealing with life’s demons. Back in 2014, Sweden's biggest music magazine named the self-titled album of Jacob's previous project Det Stora Monstret, their ”Swedish debut album of the year”. The single ”Kolibrins Vingar” (The Hummingbird's Wings) then went straight into rotation on SR P3 and Det Stora Monstret was nominated for both the Swedish GAFFA-award and the Manifest-prize.

Together with his band, consisting of co-producer Filip Leyman (Anna Von Hausswolff, Albert af Ekenstam, Det Stora Monstret), Karl Vento, Knut Källgren and Lovisa Samuelsson, Jacob's songs describe and question the world we live in with an intensity, sincerity and an urgency so strong, it forces you to stop and listen. Both poetic and political, Jacob's songs have been described as "personal and relevant on a global and common existential scale."

Brought up on grunge, his influences range from Nirvana and Pearl Jam to the psychadelic leanings of bands like Flaming Lips and MGMT and he's  equally inspired by the more sombre likes of Jose Gonzalez, Bonnie 'Prince' Billy' and Jeff Buckley. The forthcoming album offers more than a glimpse of these rich influences and with this first track, comes the promise of great things. 'Mount Song' is due out on May 5th via Suncave Recordings. Facebook here.

'Halo' begins in an understated manner, just vocals and acoustic guitar. In fairness the passion within the vocals and a sprinkling of additional backing music is more than enough to ensure another listen (or several) on my part.

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