Flawes - Chuck Berry - Fruit & Flowers

Flawes - Forever.

Background - London via Yorkshire band Flawes return with their first new recorded material since 2016’s ‘CTRL’ and ‘UNSPKN’ EPs created a feverish buzz around the trio. ‘Forever’, released last Friday (16th June) via Red Bull Records, is the first track from their upcoming EP, due for official release this Autumn.

‘Forever’ - produced by young, London producer Lostboy (Ella Eyre / Anne-Marie) - is a luxurious, electronic arrangement, brimming with the band’s uplifting synth lines, guitar motifs and underpinned by frontman Josh Carruther’s smooth, captivating vocals.

“The song is about when you rush into a relationship and everything is ‘perfect’, the other person seemingly has no flaws whatsoever and you find yourself love blind” comments frontman JC. “It goes through the different stages of a battle in your head when realising that they aren't as perfect as you perhaps once thought. In the end, you finally pluck up the courage to set things straight. As a producer Lostboy definitely got our vision for this track and it's been great to work with him”.

With only 2 EPs under their belt, the trio’s gift for dark, alt-electronica and huge soulful, pop choruses didn’t go unnoticed and Flawes were picked up by Red Bull Records who signed them to a worldwide deal at the back of last year’s achievements. The band have since spent the last six months writing and recording between LA and London, with ‘Forever’ being the first track from the studio sessions to showcase material from the next EP. Website here, Facebook here.

Alt rock with a soulful twist ensures 'Forever' soon stands out from the crowd. A top class musical arrangement and equally fine productions adds technical quality, however the passion and feeling makes the song!

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Chuck Berry - Darlin'

Background - Chuck Berry’s new and final record, CHUCK, has entered the Official Albums Chart at No. 9 – his first UK Top 10 album in 40 years. Released last week on Dualtone/Decca Records, it fought off competition from the likes of Dua Lipa, Hank Marvin and Harry Styles. It is his first UK Top 10 since 1977’s Motorvatin’. A moving new music video to Darlin’ – a duet with his daughter Ingrid – which features family stills and footage, was also unveiled.

Comprised of 10 new recordings, eight of which were written by Berry, CHUCK is his first new album since 1979’s Rock It’. It was recorded and produced by Berry in various studios around St. Louis and features his longtime hometown backing group - including his children Charles Berry Jr. (guitar) and Ingrid Berry (harmonica, vocals), plus Jimmy Marsala (Berry’s bassist for 40 years), Robert Lohr (piano), and Keith Robinson (drums) – which supported him for nearly two decades on over 200 residency shows at the famed Blueberry Hill club. The album also includes guest performances from Gary Clark Jr., Tom Morello, Nathaniel Rateliff and Chuck’s grandson Charles Berry III.  Acclaimed author and historian Douglas Brinkley contributes liner notes.

They were originally conceived as far back as the 1980s, with Berry developing them in his home studio in St. Louis over many years. Some of the songs on down time between tours.  He worked on the album through 2014.  When health concerns forced him to stop touring and recording in 2015, Berry continued to oversee production and planning for CHUCK, enlisting his family and close friend Joe Edwards, the owner of Blueberry Hill, to fulfill his wishes that the album be completed and released. And from album highlight ‘Lady B. Goode,’ a spiritual sequel to the iconic ‘Johnny B. Goode’ featuring ripping solos from three generations of Berry guitarists, to the poignant country balladry of ‘Darlin’, CHUCK truly is a family affair.

“Working on my Dad's record has been one of the best experiences of my life,” said Charles Berry Jr. “I will forever treasure the musical conversations we had, and the time we spent together completing it.” Website here, Facebook here.

I could not let the opportunity to mention Chuck Berry's final album release pass us by, especially as one of the new songs 'Darlin' is available to feature. A sentimental country ballad seems a fitting song to share, and the reflective video is beautiful.


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Fruit & Flowers – Subway Surfer.

Background - Brooklyn-based "surf noir" garage psych band Fruit & Flowers share their second single, "Subway Surfer," from their forthcoming, debut EP, Drug Tax, due out June 30th via Little Dickman Records. The single comes along with a video, debuted today on She Shreds, who say, "The video gives us a peek into their stellar live shows, which are a lot more than a good-time punk rock party. FxF’s dead perfect vocal harmonies and guitar interplay clearly displays a band operating with a fully formed idea and a love for their respective instruments."

Fruit & Flowers are one of the most active bands in the NYC area, and have been deemed one of "NYC's Hardest Working Bands" by Oh My Rockness. The band embarks on its third tour of 2017 in July to Canada and the Midwest in support of Drug Tax. Fruit & Flowers' exuberant, electric performances draw a local following. Ana Becker's angular, expressive guitar style and Lyzi Wakefield's gritty rhythmic backbone merge a post-punk heaviness with psychedelic warmth. Committed and charismatic front woman Caroline Yoder summons a fervent energy, surrounded by distinct, warm and refreshing three part harmonies, the bedrock of Fruit and Flowers' sound.

Conceived in a Bushwick loft with broken AC during the summer of 2015 by Caroline on bass and Shaw Walters on drums, the band was soon joined by Lyzi Wakefield and Ana Becker on guitars and vocals. The band agreed to play its first show at Northside festival just weeks after formation and wrote the record in a furious fit of hot nights and inspired mornings. The band became fully realized when Shaw handed the role of drummer to Jose Berrio (drummer-cum-art director), whose inimitable style elevates the strong rhythmic character of the band.

Drug Tax was born out of necessity, capturing the grit and rush of New York City summer and the newfound chemistry between the bandmates. Weaving together the perspectives and expressions of the band's multiple songwriters, Drug Tax unfolds to present the unique and varied voice of Fruit & Flowers. Lead single "Out Of Touch" is about the ennui of a missed love opportunity, with soaring, sultry vocals, beachy surf rock riffs and fuzzy bass. Album tracks range from the sultry moody and beautiful "Dark Surf" to the post-gothic title track "Drug Tax." 

Drug Tax was recorded at Thump Studios in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The EP was engineered and co-produced by John Thayer, and mixed and mastered by George Harris. Jose Berrio designed the band's logo and album art. Website here, Facebook here. Live dates on Beehive Candy's tour news page.

When we featured 'Out Of Touch last month we described the song as having "sultry vocals, beach surf rock riffs and fuzzy bass". The new single release 'Subway Surfer' is a little more feisty, however the bands surf rock instincts are there, alongside a raft of hooks throughout.


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Amelie No - Katey Morley - Cody & Danz - The National Parks

Amelie No - Stranger Body.

Background - Stranger Body (released Friday June 16th) is a song about resilience and adaptation. Recognising internal change is at once beautiful and terrifying; and although peace of mind may take time to obtain, acceptance of one’s own condition is the first step.

Amelie No has been a part of Quebec City’s music scene for many years now. It all started when she was teenager, playing bass and singing in several punk rock bands in the provincial capital. She eventually turned to a more soulful sound and her voice started making waves across Canada, the U.S. and Europe with folk-rock band I.No back in 2008. 

She became a household name last year after she sang her way into the semi-finals on the Quebec version of the hit TV show, The Voice. Her jazzy vocals are now set on new indie-pop music with R&B and soul accents. Facebook here, website here.

'Stranger Body' has a luscious musical arrangement that provides Amelie No, with a perfect backdrop for some soulful and bluesy vocals. Combined they produce a smooth and increasingly powerful genre crossing song.

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Katey Morley - Good Little Girls.

Background - Katey Morley’s music follows few rules, weaving together singable yet unexpected melodies, and effortlessly fusing her lifelong loves of country, jazz, folk and pop music.

Self-taught composer and eclectic multi-instrumentalist, Katey plays dulcimer, autoharp, piano and percussion, but it is her voice that captivates listeners and has earned her a loyal following. 

Soft and vulnerable for a moment, and then suddenly unleashed, it is a powerfully dynamic instrument, drawing comparisons to the likes of Linda Ronstadt, Sia, and K.D. Lang. 

“Good Little Girls” is the second single from Katey Morley’s forthcoming EP Then. Website here, Facebook here.

It's the engaging, melodic vocals that stand out first on 'Good Little Girls'. As the song unfolds, the musical arrangement develops, both in instrumentation and presence, creating an eloquent and very catchy song.

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Cody & Danz - If I Only Had $ome Money.

Background - Cody & Danz are teaming up to release their debut EP, Only The Hits, on July 14th via Channel 9 Records in the USA and Tugboat Records in Japan. The two artists both have burgeoning solo projects: Cody Crump and Computer Magic. Cody lives in LA and Danz lives in NYC.

After playing many of LA’s staple venues - from Soho House to The Roxy to The Standard, Cody Crump has plans to tour in the very near future. His music will be featured in the upcoming film “The List.” He has had music featured on HBO's "Leftovers," Showtime's "Penny Dreadful, and most recently his song "Burn" was in ABC's "How To Get Away With Murder."

Danz has toured North America multiple times with acts such as Neon Indian, Ladyhawke and Chad Valley. She’s played the Primavera Festival in Spain, Martini Art Love Festival in Moscow,  and has toured Japan multiple times. She has many shows locally in LA and New York City, so stay tuned for upcoming dates for Computer Magic, Cody Crump and Cody & Danz.

Danz lives in New York. Cody lives in LA. They met one day to write a song. They both liked writing that song so much - that they decided to write more. They became great friends and wrote many more songs. These songs are what you hear on Only The Hits. Facebook here.

'If I Only Had $ome Money' is chock-full of hooks. The synths and rhythm are vigorous, and are accompanied by in sync vocals that add atmosphere and double up on the catchy nature of this song.

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The National Parks - Places.

Background - Utah-based alt-folk band, The National Parks, have just released "Places,” the title track off of their much anticipated new studio album. “This a song I’ve been trying to write for a long time,” shares Brady Parks, the band’s multi-talented front man. “In the last four years we’ve toured a lot and, early on, that mostly meant crashing in people’s homes. And a lot of times these were people we didn’t even know - they were friends of friends or people we’d connected with online somehow - but we’d be sleeping on their couches and floors and using their bathrooms and all that. It’s a strangely intimate way to experience the country and it sort of got the wheels turning on this notion of certain relationships that are tied to distinct places.”

“Places” will be released via Rock Love Magic Records, a Los Angeles-based boutique record label that was founded by music veteran, Tyler Barth in 2017. The label’s focus is to release single tracks primarily through digital distribution from an array of artists across the indie, alternative, rock, pop and folk genres. The label is excited to celebrate its first release with The National Parks latest track.

Barth has become intimate with the band’s spectacular growth over the past couple years, and has featured them in several successful Los Angeles-based showcases. “The National Parks is the winning combination of frontman Brady Park’s songwriting and a band that consistently delivers unforgettable live performances,” shares Barth. “I’m overjoyed to be releasing ‘Places’ as the label’s first single. It may just signify that both The National Parks and Rock Love Magic Records are going ‘Places.’” Website here, Facebook here.

Upbeat and with that sing along anthem feel to it, 'Places' is a fabulous and mightily catchy song. Alt folk meets alt rock with this spectacular song, ensuring the forthcoming album really is keenly anticipated!



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Low Dive - Slowcoaching - Honeymilk - Mise en Scene

Low Dive - Common People.

Background - Brisbane dream pop duo, Low Dive release their music video for debut single, 'Common People'.

Featuring pals, pups and sun-drenched streets, the video is an ode to Brisbane's West End and it's beloved local haunts.

Low Dive launch 'Common People' at The Foundry in Brisbane on Thursday 29th June with support from Pool Shop and McKisko. Facebook here.

'Common People' is a lush and dreamy song, with a laid back vibe and gentle melodic vocals, which together make for an enchanting musical piece.


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Slowcoaching - Pillars Of Salt.

Background - From his computer chair to the live stage, Slowcoaching, the solo moniker for Dean Valentino, has expanded his dream-pop vision to something far more audacious and vivid. Taking euphoria head on, Slowcoaching creates a focussed aura of hazy nostalgia through his musical stylings.

'Pillars of Salt' is the first product of true collaboration from Slowcoaching–hitting the studio with his live band for the first time. Through the virtue of his live group, Valentino's music has never appeared so present.

The power of 'Pillars of Salt' comes from the way Slowcoaching communications urgency through such patient music. Cataloguing his own self-assessment and the mundane, the track explores Valentino's own world having been engulfed by nature documentaries.

With support performances with Harts, Philadelphia Grand Jury and Fountaineer under his belt, Slowcoaching, now with 'Pillars of Salt', his most resolute single to date, is making increasingly bigger and more intelligent steps toward his debut album coming later this year. 'Pillars of Salt' is a wide net to capture a memory–Slowcoaching's approximation of the bigger world, helped by Valentino's soaring vocals, reneges a feeling of escapism and dream-pop serenity. Facebook here.

The musical arrangement is refined and beautifully performed. It's the perfect backdrop for some fabulous vocals, and on 'Pillars Of Salt' that's precisely what you hear. This is a stunning indie/dream pop song!

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Honeymilk - Trip.

Background - “Trip”, by Stockholm, Sweden based indie rockers Honeymilk, was created when singer Marcus Admun brought some chords to guitarist Nikki Nyberg. Some Thin Lizzy meets Mac DeMarco meets TOPS-guitars later the track was finished. The song is typical Honeymilk stuff – lyrics discussing the fact that life seldom reaches higher that a 2 out of 5 grade in general, but with melodies and arrangements that believes you into thinking the opposite.

Honeymilk, who went from a four-piece to a two-piece a year ago, are in the studio working on a sophomore studio album to be released fall 2017. First track out from the album was “Time Will Kill You” which was released last summer, soon reaching 200 000 streams on Spotify, followed by “The Nothing New” which was instantly hailed as the best track the band’s released by media outlets such as Clash Magazine, BBC Fresh On The Net and Jajaja Music. Airplay followed on renowned stations such as Amazing Radio, German Flux FM, Norwegian NRK P13 and Finnish YLE Soumi. Facebook here.

The vibrant music and melodic vocal delivery, might be at odds with the lyrics on 'Trip' however it remains a catchy and hook filled song. With words firmly set in reality, the added bonus is the ability to relate to the artists thoughts and feelings.

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Mise en Scene - Waster.

Background - Stefanie Blondal Johnson and Jodi Dunlop of Winnipeg, Canada based indie rock outfit Mise en Scene have overseen slow, steady changes in their group since forming in 2012, but the gradual metamorphosis has been well worth the wait. Their second album, ‘Still Life On Fire’, is a set of excellent guitar based songs that takes rock, new wave, post-punk and 90’s indie/alt.rock influences and stamps the band’s personality all over them via Johnson’s powerful vocals and some inventive arrangements.    

Album highlights include the first UK single ‘Closer’, a burning holler that channels the Riot grlll aesthetic, the post-punk pop of ‘Waster’, the strident ‘Guts/Glory’, the epic ‘I'm Ok’, the reflective title track and the hard  hitting ‘Young Leo’. Recorded in Winnipeg and produced by Montréal-based Mike Nash (The Dears, Blue Rodeo, Ladies of the Canyon), the record captures a full portrayal of the band’s musical journey to date.

Waster is from new album ‘Still Life On Fire’ out 30.06.17 [UK release via Membran]. It was while playing at the annual Canadian Music Week festival in Toronto that the band were signed by  the Vancouver based Light Organ Records, a label that represents artists with an independent mindset 
such as The Zolas and Mounties (a group featuring Hawksley Workman and members of Hot Hot Heat). ‘Still Life On Fire’ is licensed to indie powerhouse Membran for its UK release. Website here.

'Waster' is a lively and determined track, that mixes raw, new wave styled rock'n'roll, with some genuine and natural vocals. Mise En Scene can certainly claim to have made their mark on genres of days gone by, with a modern and vibrant style.

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2 by bukowski feat: Kid Moxie - J.D. King - Stag - Evan Klar

2 by bukowski feat. Kid Moxie - Hot Summer.

Background - Let's go back in a time for a bit, before 2 by bukowski had a name, before the Wire Nightmare, before even the infamous “Practice Session 0” at Studio N between George, John and Nik.  

It was sometime in 1996 and a band called Tiger had released a single called "My Puppet Pal". George had just bought the record and brought it over to John's place to listen to. The single came with a sticker of its cover which George gave to John who stuck it on his white Aria bass. For that reason that bass has since been and is still known as The Tiger. At some point, after having used it on several 2bb recordings, John upgraded his bass and gave The Tiger to Achilles who was cheap and would take whatever you gave him.  

A few years down the line Achilles passed The Tiger on to his cousin. The cousin eventually moved to L.A. and became the very keen musician Kid Moxie, all thanks to The Tiger's magical powers. It's Kid Moxie's voice you hear on "Hot Summer". So it goes with full circles and so it goes with magical musical instrument folklore. 

The single “Hot Summer / Beast’s Breath” will be released on 7inch vinyl and digital format via Inner Ear. 2 By Bukowski current members are Achilles Charmpilas and George Malamidis. Hot Summer is performed and produced by 2 by bukowski. Written by 2 by bukowski and April Walz. with vocals by Kid Moxie. Facebook here.

'Hot Summer' is a gorgeous mix of melodic vocals and a multi-layered electronic & guitar soundtrack, the latter adding depth and a level of  fascinating disquiet. Very addictive!


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J.D. King - Midnight Rendezvous.

Background - Essence is what JD King seems to hold in the highest regard as it pertains to the way he interacts with everything. The Los Angeles based musician, songwriter, producer and artist is hypersensitive to aesthetics that surround him from his performances, to his recording techniques, down to the way he dresses. King creates his own world to share with his audiences. This eye for detail also shows up in his highly sought after paintings and illustrations, which are a perfect accompaniment to his music and style. Treat yourself and enter the world of JD King, one of the most original artists to come from this time. 

Starting from an early age, King’s musical background began by learning piano, which would ultimately ignite his music writing. Later, he would transfer this knowledge and skill to a multitude of instruments including saxophone, flute, cello and eventually guitar, where he would ultimately gain his notoriety. As a member of many Southern California bands in his youth, he would discover and cultivate his writing ability during this time. Finally striking out on his own, his first solo album, Here’s JD King, showcased the breadth of his musicianship pairing his ear for classic and beautiful melodies with his virtuosic guitar ability. An avid record collector since he was in grade school, King’s extensive knowledge, and library, of 78, 45 and 33rpm recordings dates back to the turn of the century. This encyclopedic knowledge of analog music shows in his production taste and compositional style.

Following his critically acclaimed project, The Olms, with friend Pete Yorn, King is preparing to release his new highly anticipated solo album titled Moon Gardens. He describes this latest work as a “three year experiment to find the highest level analog sonics, totally original songwriting methods and the most fulfilling creative experience using only biological electromagnetic vibration.” King brought together some of the top musicians in the city to perform with 4-track tape machines, utilizing his collection of extremely high-quality vintage microphones and gear. The album was mixed entirely on a beautiful custom built tube console at his home studio in the Hollywood Hills and delivered to the listener at the highest professional quality. The result is an artistic and original album lovingly written, performed and produced by King. Website here, Facebook here.

A tight rhythm arrangement with some catchy chord changes helps 'Midnight Rendezvous' get noticed from the word go. A subtle melody and engaging vocals does the rest song wise, the video adds additional charm to a fine alt rock track.


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Stag - Pharaoh.

Background - Stag has a riff-centered sound that’s both nostalgic and contemporaneous; equal parts romantic angst and sexual tension; vibrantly commercial yet comfortably in the red.

Most of their new eight song Midtown Sizzler was recorded with John Agnello (Dinosaur Jr., Hold Steady, Kurt Vile) at Water Studios in Hoboken, NJ. As Mr. Agnello says, “They contacted me and I checked out their music and I loved it! 

They have all these wonderful influences of music I love. They write great melodies and they know hooks. It’s a pleasure working with strong characters with strong opinions who are also open to outside ideas.” 

Two songs (pre-single “The Bedazzler” and “Runner”) were recorded with Jack Endino at Soundhouse in Seattle, and mixed by Martin Feveyear on Vashon Island. 

Cover photo by Meryl Meisler from her book Purgatory & Paradise SASSY '70s Suburbia & The City. Official release date is Friday August 4th. All songs written by Ben London, and performed by Stag. Website here, Facebook here.

The first track of eight on 'Midtown Sizzler' is the robust and powerful 'Pharaoh'. This is a slick collection of natural and down to earth rock'n'roll songs. For me it's the sort that, could just play in the background all day, and demand your attention for a proper listen later. Highly recommended.

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Evan Klar - Barefoot.

Background - Trekking into tour mode, Evan Klar today announces new headline shows in Sydney and Melbourne to celebrate the release of his latest single 'Barefoot'. Klar will head line Sydney's Rare Finds on Friday June 30 and perform just over a week later at Yah Yah's in Melbourne. 

There's a percussive grounding which serves as the driving force for Evan Klar's music. It's this uniqueness and almost tribal sonic sphere that has a steady legion of fans crossing his path. Named as one of GQ Magazine's 'Ones to Watch in 2017', the Melbourne based musician's 'Barefoot' premiered on 2017 with Richard Kingsmill, was added to triple j spot rotation and has amassed almost 500,000 plays on Spotify in just two months. He's now well on the way to cracking a million plays online this month with just two tracks released. 

A visual and aural feast, Evan Klar's live show is a high energy, sensory experience. Performing with a double drum kit and bongo drums, Klar's "commanding live vocals lure the listener into his undeniably likeable structure of musical compositions." (The Music). 

Not tip-toeing about on the live front, the half Australian, half German musician has been leaving plenty of footprints on stages in 2017 with performances at festivals The Blurst of Times, The Mountain Goat Valley Crawl and support for Confidence Man at three sold out shows. As he prepares to release his debut album compiled with producer Ash Workman (Metronomy and Christine and The Queens) fans can expect to hear debut offerings 'Barefoot' and 'Sleep' as well as a selection of yet unreleased tracks. Facebook here. 

'Barefoot' is the first song I have heard by Evan Klar. The musical arrangement is both highly professional and contains some original and intriguing ideas. Without getting carried away, this is one of those "breath of fresh air" songs, reminding me that creativity and enjoyment can still work well together.


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Common Tongues - Quiet Hollers - Keep Shelly in Athens

Common Tongues - Pioneer.

Background - Common Tongues have taken a step in a new direction with their upcoming debut album; with their sound extending towards the experimental, by its presence of electronic instrumentation and powerful song progressions. A new life is given to their powerful indie-folk music.

Dancing on the boundary between acoustic and synthetic, Common Tongues  use intricate harmonies, searing violins & bubbling electronics to create absorbing live experiences and records that reveal immersive arrangements and lyrical themes of conflict, decline and rebirth. 

Their newest single ‘Pioneer’ from their upcoming debut album 'Divisions', is their gutsiest release yet. Delving into the tradition of intimate singer-songwriting with deeply personal lyrics, Pioneer also reveals a different personality of underlying electronic swells and arpeggios matched by ornate guitar licks. The band explain more about their upcoming album “With Divisions it felt like we suddenly had a group of songs with a rawer, more insistent new edge to them, threading them together. I would say the sound of the record stems from us exploring the sounds we love in music and the world around us and trying to find a way of expressing them in our own way.” 

Their debut record ‘Divisions’ was recorded with producer Gavin Monaghan (Robert Plant, Kings of Leon, Paulo Nutini, The Editors). It sees the band growing out of their folk roots by experimenting with sound and rhythm whilst keeping the honest poetry of their lyrics and journey-like structures. Facebook here.

The new track 'Pioneer' suggests the bands shift from indie-folk into more experimental and adventurous territories, is quite genuine. It certainly feels that way with this rich and vibrant song, where the vocals are determined and invigorating, and the musical arrangement is expansive. Makes the debut album, all the more intriguing and easily anticipated.

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Quiet Hollers - Funny Ways.

Background -  “Funny Ways” , the excellent new single from Louisville’s revered indie/post-punk group Quiet Hollers. “Funny Ways” is the second official single released from their forthcoming album Amen Breaks, and the song is about criminality and the self-perpetuating prison-industrial complex. 

Have you ever had a friend that just can't seem to stay out of trouble? That's exactly who frontman Shadwick Wilde wrote this song for.

 “Funny Ways” follows on the heels of the album’s powerful lead single “Medicine”, a compelling personal story from frontman Shadwick Wilde about crippling anxiety, depression, existential malaise, and society’s attitudes toward medication and addiction. 

The bands' new album Amen Breaks draws parallels with the cultural crossovers and the anxieties of the 1970's, a decade marred by division, political corruption, and terrorism. Website here, Facebook here.

'Funny Ways' is pretty gentle for a band described as indie/post punk.Whatever, this is a catchy song that is both melodic and superbly arranged, in fact there is a certain irony that a subject matter this deep, is delivered with such beauty.

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Keep Shelly in Athens - Leave In Silence.

Background - Keep Shelly In Athens announces new album, Philokalia, & shares first single, "Leave In Silence". The ethereal and swirling sounds of the ambient-influenced pop of Greece's Keep Shelly in Athens captures the transient feelings of city life and the inevitable passing of time. With lush melodic beats and dreamy vocals Keep Shelly's production is an accessible and lighthearted entry into the world of down-tempo electronica.

With previous releases on labels including Forest Family Records, Transparent Records, Planet Mu, Cascine and Friends of Friends, the duo have already transported their whimsical arrangements and soothing productions across the globe, including performances at Coachella Festival, Parklife Festival, Brighton's The Great Escape Festival and Austin's Fun Fun Fun.

In addition to their own releases they have also done official remixes for Tycho (Ghostly International), Blood Diamonds (4AD), Steve Mason (Domino) and many more...

Their third LP is coming out on September 29 2017 via their own record label Athenian Aura Recordings with the Aussie award-winning novelist/poet Jessica Bell as their new singer. Website here, Facebook here.

Keep Shelly in Athens are a creative band, as 'Leave In Silence' I hope confirms for any listeners new to their music. The arrival of Jessica Bell as the new vocalist, adds to my anticipation and impatient desire to hear the rest of album!


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Eat The Evidence - Be The Bear - City Calm Down

Eat The Evidence - Fruit Of The Loot.

Background - “This song is about how other countries can't be trusted at looking after their own belongings. What better way to express this than using a slide whistle and swear words.” Eat The Evidence

A satirical account of the artistic trappings of the British Empire set to supercharged-ska, ‘Fruit Of The Loot’ is a tongue-in-cheek yet brutally honest address to all those nations, from Greece to Chile and beyond, whose prized cultural artefacts have been pilfered for exhibits in UK museums and galleries. It’s all set to an astonishingly agile brew of agit-ska – all dubby bass, fiesta beats and, yes, that is a slide-whistle solo. The video captures the band dressed as colonialists, visiting the stolen artefacts at the British Museum.

A breathtakingly entertaining hybrid of The Specials, NOFX, Ween and The Streets, Eat The Evidence are led by brothers Jack and Tom Lattimer, skilled musicians whose deceptively dextrous playing demands equivalent levels of expertise from fellow band members Ric Lygo, Joe Bartlett and Michael Saminaden. With an earthy, animated and uninhibited stage presence, the band’s live shows are swiftly becoming London legend, riotous gigs of carnivalesque proportions with not a little audience interaction. Exploding onto the ska-punk and festival circuits in 2014, Eat The Evidence are always the punkest band on a reggae bill, or the reggae'est band on a punk night. Either way, they will always own the room.

Capturing such visceral energy on tape could have been a challenge, but with the help of Sam Duckworth (aka Get Cape Wear Cape Fly), Jay Malhotra and Rees Broomfield, Eat The Evidence emerged from The Broom Cupboard in Southend-on-Sea brandishing their debut album, ‘Sex, Drugs & Wishy Washy Politics’, which surges from the speakers in a flood of sonic sweat. Eschewing romantic escapism for the distinctly down-to-earth, the album’s subject matter ranges from junkie girlfriends to the post-party comedown to political and existential conundrums, all delivered with biting satirical lyrics, breakneck rhythms and such a liberal approach to instrumentation that accordion, trumpet, ukelele and even slide whistle are thrown into the bass-guitar-drums mix. There’s no pretence, no heeding of passing trends, just the foul-mouthed rejection of societal flaws and a riotous celebration of the good times. Facebook here.

A little bit of humour in this increasingly insane and lost world seems in order, which is partly where 'Fruit Of The Loot' comes in. The other "part" is that, this is a delightfully catchy and enjoyable song. That the message is poignant and steeped in historical facts, should be centre stage, it's just that right now, something to smile about is quite useful.


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Be The Bear - Erupt.

Background - Be The Bear is a one-woman industry – a fiercely independent female artist and producer, writing and recording her own songs in her commercial studio in Gothenburg, home to her own record label Loud Attic Records and publishing company. Be The Bear’s debut single ‘Erupt’ is a spectacular representation of this young gifted Swedish talent, who has the confidence to create music in an uncompromisingly unique way.

The alias Be The Bear derives from Christina’s childhood fear of bears and recurring cold-sweat nightmares. “I used to dream about them every night, chasing me up old wooden staircases. When dreams come back again and again, I think it's because you’re trying to deal with something. I wasn't facing my fears and challenging myself.” Christina adopted the totem of the wild bear, creating a powerful musical persona for herself. When asked about Erupt, Christina states: “Erupt is my ode to new places in life and an invocation to the fearlessness in all of us. It’s about the learning experience of transporting strong emotions into something physical”.

This Norse alt pop epic builds from a whisper into an inspiring vocal performance that is guaranteed to give you goose bumps. Accompanied by a 60-piece string orchestra, Christina’s voice is at once intimate, passionate and cathartic with an honesty reminiscent of Aurora and Emiliana Torrini, rising to an explosive and uplifting Björk and Susanne Sundfør. Christina’s work is in huge demand with music supervisors and sync companies, having already featured in several high profile global ad campaigns.

Erupt is a milestone of an effervescent artist, and will be out on Christina’s label- Loud Attic Records, through Kobalt. It is in all the usual places as of now. Website here, Facebook here.

'Erupt' is beautiful. That there are some similarities to Bjork and others, as mentioned in the promo piece, is better seen as an endorsement of the sheer quality of this song, rather than having any negative connotations. It's a fabulous song from a very talented and creative artist.

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City Calm Down - Blood.

Background - 'Blood' is the new single from Melbourne's City Calm Down it's the first taste of the band's highly anticipated second album. Inspired by a standoff with a former employer, 'Blood' is all formidable, joyful crescendos – the push and pull of a day job versus touring commitments.

"I ended up quitting my job," singer Jack Bourke explains. "My boss was being inflexible but I was also being self absorbed, and the lyrics reflect that. They touch on the grind of work and how easy it is to isolate yourself from the people who matter to you by being too caught up in your own ambition and what you're doing.

"This is a place I feel we ended up towards the end of recording the album," he continues. "We were running late-night recording sessions during the middle of the week when we all had work the following morning, and we were all just emotionally exhausted by the end. Not to let an opportunity go to waste, we really tried to capture that sense of madness in the final chorus."

For album #2 the band are reteaming with producer Malcolm Beasley (who helmed their debut). "The new record feels like a natural progression from 'In A Restless House'" explains Bourke. "There are songs that expand on the themes and songwriting present on that record, and there are songs that mark a clear departure. It also feels much more cohesive… which is probably due to us having a clearer idea of how we wanted the songs to sound before we went into the studio." Website here, Facebook here.

Atmosphere, energy and commitment combine to create 'Blood' a passionate alt rocker, where the lyrics, and their determined delivery, are backed by some equally powerful music. If the rest of the album is on a par with this, I reckon there will be, a considerable number of very satisfied listeners, a little later this year.


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Caretaker - Little Mammoths - Jim Lauderdale - People Like You - MAP

Caretaker - Swallow.

Background - Caretaker are a rock band from Brooklyn that formed from the ashes of several other popular Brooklyn bands. They deliver high-energy rock songs that make you want to dance just as much as they make you want to punch a hole in your wall. 

Long after you’ve left the venue, their melodies will get stuck in your head and their memory will be burned in your mind. They are fronted by a real-life nanny. Members: Erin Pellnat, Eva Lawitts, Alex Pulakos, Damian Sim, and Chris Krasnow.

“Swallow” is a song about being trapped in a relationship (or any situation, really) where someone is successful in convincing you that you are constantly wrong. This gets to the point where you believe everything they say, gladly taking punishment and abuse from them and wrongfully accepting that you deserve it. So you just cut ties and set yourself free. Website here, Facebook here.

There is a vibrant pace and feel to 'Swallow,' where feisty vocals compete with an ultra tight musical arrangement, accompanied by some robust synths, that add even more colour to this very catchy song.

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Little Mammoths - Hungover In New York.

Background - Little Mammoths are a London-based Rock’n’Roll Bar Band formed in 2014, that continue charging down the vein of The Hold Steady, Drive-by Truckers and Wilco. Comprised of Matt Owens (ex-Noah & The Whale) and some of his oldest friends, Olly Cox on bass and James Besley on drums, now neatly rounded off by renowned pedal steel player Joe Harvey-Whyte, this band have the sort of chemistry most can only dream of. 

Their debut album ‘Phantom Dreams’ was recently released on vinyl in the Spring of 2017, featuring a set of raucous songs about nightly lock-ins the band were privy to over three years of touring the West Coast of Ireland and The Scottish Highlands.  Their raw energy prompted Texan legend Ray Wylie Hubbard to declare: “If your ears dig gnawing on the gritty sounds from a young, dirty, cool rock band, I just found Little Mammoths who satisfy the craving…”

The quartet’s constant gigging and tireless work ethic often result in straight sets in excess of four hours, and has seen their road-hardened material performed to ecstatic crowds alongside Mumford & Sons, Fat White Family and Bahamas and at international festivals including Wilderness, Loopallu and The Clonakilty Guitar Festival.

Little Mammoths will release their eagerly anticipated second album ‘Cargo for The Road’ this summer (23 June), with pedal steel player Joe Harvey-Whyte now firmly in the fold and backed by a 3-piece horn section. The band are set promote the record through 2017 with extensive touring around Europe, and a full UK festival run, including Glastonbury. Website here, Facebook here.

If The Pogues/Kirsty MacColl had ever needed a sequel for their fabulous 'Fairytale of New York' song, then Little Mammoths 'Hungover In New York' would be in my opinion the contender. The obvious link is in the song title, however the emotion, spirit, heart and atmosphere, draws these two very different pieces together, all for the better as far as I'm concerned.

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Jim Lauderdale - You Came To Get Me.

Background - Award winning singer and master songwriter Jim Lauderdale embarks on a UK tour in July in the company of My Darling Clementine, Sam Outlaw, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Angaleena Presley, Nick Lowe and Red Sky July. 

To coincide with the tour, Proper Records will release a new single, ‘You Came To Get Me,’ from Jim’s acclaimed new ‘London Southern’ album.  Recorded in London at Goldtop studios and produced by the recently departed Neil Brockbank along with Robert Trehern, London Southern features co-writes with Dan Penn, Joan Oates, Odie Blackmon and Kendell Marvell alongside six Lauderdale solo compositions and a host of celebrated guest musicians. 

Jim Lauderdale is both a ‘songwriter’s songwriter’, who has written/co-written many modern classics for iconic artists, as well as an intuitive sideman who has enhanced the music of a bevy of esteemed musicians. As a solo artist, he has created a critically acclaimed body of work spanning nearly 30 albums of imaginative roots music, encompassing country, bluegrass, soul, R&B and rock.

Throughout his three-decade career, Lauderdale has helped pave the way for the current Americana movement, recording albums and writing songs that cross genres from country, rock, folk and bluegrass. Jim has written many classic songs for iconic artists and worked with some of the finest performers in traditional and modern music, including Robert Hunter, Ralph Stanley, Elvis Costello, George Strait, Buddy Miller, Lucinda Williams, John Oates, Solomon Burke, Lee Ann Womack, Old Crow Medicine Show, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Blake Shelton, the Dixie Chicks, Vince Gill, Patty Loveless, and Gary Allan among many, many others. He co-hosts a weekly radio show on SiriusXM with Buddy Miller, "The Buddy & Jim Show," and is also co-host of Music City Roots, the weekly live and radio, podcast and PBS series.

Jim has won two Grammys and been honoured with the SESAC Inspiration Award, the prestigious American Eagle Award from the National Music Council along with Kris Kristofferson and in 2016, the aforementioned US Americana Music Association’s Wagonmaster Award. Tour dates on Beehive Candy's tour news page, website here.

'You Came To Get Me' oozes the class and sophistication, that an artist of Jim Lauderdale's calibre might be expected to constantly deliver. This is a beautifully constructed song, the arrangement is slightly understated, making room for feeling and personality to shine through. Whatever a persons track record might be, songs like this should never be taken for granted.


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People Like You - Variations on an Aria.

Background - People Like You will release their sophomore album entitled Verse on July 28 via Topshelf Records. Yesterday they shared the lead single "Variations on an Aria".

The five-piece Boston-based band, People Like You, formed in 2014 from the short-lived emo/math punk band, I Kill Giants, which included guitarist/vocalist Chris Lee-Rodriguez and drummer Sander Bryce. After the release of their first record, This is what you learned. on Broken World Media, People Like You expanded to include longtime collaborator and trumpet player Matt Hull, as well as vocalist/pianist Michi Tassey, and Animal Flag’s Sai Boddupalli on bass.

After several years of making a name for themselves in the small DIY house show circuit in the Northeast, the indie jazz outfit will release their sophomore album, Verse on Topshelf Records. Incorporating improvisation, classical guitar, breakbeats, a punk ethos, literary references, and beautiful pop melodies, People Like You has developed a sound that they can truly call their own. Facebook here, Topshelf Records here.

'Variations on an Aria' is a fabulous genre defying song, that pretty much confirms the above promo to be spot on. Whats more it is addictive, and ensures their sophomore album 'Verse' is a must hear for me.

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MAP - Skills To Rebuild.

Background - Los Angeles-based MAP will be releasing his new EP 'Hello Singularity (Writer's Block Part One)' on Velvet Blue Music, June 16th. The EP was mixed by Ken Ramos and mastered by Jason Martin of Starflyer 59.

Inspired by being paralyzed by the neck down from the West Nile Virus in 2014 and influenced by bands like The Smiths, Stereolab, Beach House and Future Islands, the new EP and its lead single "Skills To Rebuild" present a pensive yet joyful outlook on life.

The lyrics were inspired by my own recovery from the hospital and the simultaneous loss of my best friend Rene' from a genetic kidney disease and how it taught me fear in general is pointless. Fear can't keep your friends alive, fear won't keep someone from leaving you. I should take a chance and open myself up to the possibility of hurt and disappointment in life because whatever happens, I now have the skills to rebuild.

Basically life is too short to be afraid of heartbreak or of how people may feel about your art so get out of the house make art, kiss people, take risks, be present. If you can walk in sunshine with friends and family you are filthy rich and if someone breaks your heart don't worry you'll be fine you might even get a new song or two out of it. Website here.

There is a refreshing feel to 'Skills To Rebuild' as soon as the song begins. The background above establishes the context of the song, it's admirable that the track achieves and conveys so much more. That it's catchy, and such a well produced track, almost seems a bonus.

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Secret Bad Boy - December Baby - The Electro-Lights

Secret Bad Boy - Chicken / Double Platinum.

Background - After completing a successful mini-tour opening select dates for London’s Happyness, Secret Bad Boy is back in Chicago with a show scheduled for Schuba’s Tavern on Thursday, June 15.

Secret Bad Boy is the new project from Ezra Furman’s longtime guitarist and keyboard player, Ben Joseph, and the band’s recordings feature Woody Goss of Vulfpeck, Ezra Furman, Nick Tremulis, Packy Lundholm of I Fight Dragons, Noam Wallenberg, Brittany Moffitt, Mat Roberts, Jorgen Jorgensen and Sam Durkes. 

Secret Bad Boy has released two tracks plus accompanying music videos. Bandcamp here, website here.

'Chicken' and 'Double Platinum' are two very different songs, with one consistent feature, they are both fabulous. Actually there is more, both songs and videos have the charm of a "bad boy" the mischief is not far below the surface, plus the natural rock'n'roll is there in abundance.



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December Baby - Jimmy Choos.

Background - What do you get when you take four film students, a singer turned impromptu method actor, and a gradually escalating series of passive-aggressive scenes involving a 1950s housewife decimating an apple pie, flipping through a male pin-up mag, and destroying flowers while channelling a truly Hannibal Lecter-esque vibe? It’s December Baby’s debut music video for single Jimmy Choos, and it’s one to watch with an upcoming release date of Friday 9 June 2017. 

December Baby is the artist name for Renee Jury, a 30-something singer-songwriter from Brisbane. Having successfully released her first EP, Beneath the Surface, in 2016, December Baby’s style is best defined as alternative pop, with her songs ranging from upbeat, quirky pop tunes, through to darker, more reflective musings. 

The single Jimmy Choos was written by December Baby and produced by James North Productions in St Lucia, Brisbane. It’s a power pop song with December Baby’s deceptively sweet vocals juxtaposed against biting lyrics and jagged guitar riffs. December Baby describes the song as a “massive bitching session” about mean girls. On a deeper level though, the song is about having the freedom not to care what others think, and be true to your own values, in the face of pressure to conform. 

This theme is brought to life in the Jimmy Choos music video which has been created by four talented film students from SAE Institute in Brisbane – Kate Jorgensen (Director), Demi Bird (Producer), Brielle O’Mullane (Cinematographer) and Kaydee Ball (Editor). The film team utilise a colourful, retro aesthetic to tell the story from the perspective of a 1950s housewife who is being pressured to fit into society’s “norms”. However, instead of conforming, she shakes off all expectation in a mash-up of gradually escalating scenes where she destroys and mocks the products and values she’s being expected 
to promote. Warning: this video contains graphic images of pastry destruction and consumption, which some viewers may find disturbing. 

December Baby is excited to partner with The A&R Department to bring the Jimmy Choos music video and single to a wider audience. The release of the Jimmy Choos music video last Friday 9 June 2017 will be complemented with live shows, dates to be announced. Website here, Facebook here.

If you love some quirky charm, accompanied by some fabulously retro styled music and imagery, then 'Jimmy Choos' may well be your song of the year. This song is highly addictive!


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The Electro-Lights - Watch Your Back.

Background - It’s 2017 and the two minute single is alive and kicking as the The Electro-Lights gate-crash the year with a barnstorming rockabilly, punk injection collection of adrenalin called ‘Watch Your Back’. 

The duo (Oliver Meacham and Samuel Mahler) were formed mid-2012 emerging from the blues and rock 'n' roll roots of Mississippi and formed something truly different.

The band toured until early 2014 when singer/guitarist, Sam Mahler deployed to Afghanistan with The United States Army performing with a wide variety of bands such as The Offspring, Smashing Pumpkins, One Republic, Shinedown, The Wallflowers, Wiz Khalifa and Awolnation. 

Upon return, The Electro-Lights hit it harder than ever and returned to the road. The Electro-Lights have played across the country at many venues and festivals including SXSW. Facebook here.

'Watch Your Back' is a gritty and flamboyantly energetic collection of songs, where tumultuous punk and modern rockabilly fight it out, in short, sharp bursts of vitally exciting pure rock.

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Fast Romantics - Miranda Lee Richards - Samsaruh - Tombstones In Their Eyes - Lo Tom

Fast Romantics - Everybody's Trying to Steal Your Heart.

Background - Toronto-based indie rockers Fast Romantics have shared their new video "Everybody's Trying To Steal Your Heart". The band just released their latest LP American Love. Produced by the dynamic duo of Gus Van Go and Werner F (Arkells, Wintersleep, Hollerado), American Love is the follow-up record to Fast Romantic’s 2013 release, Afterlife Blues.

Written and recorded over two years, alternating between Toronto and Brooklyn, American Love is a nod to the type of cinematic storybook romance American pop culture has conditioned us to search for, but also explores the realities at play off the silver screen that can wreak havoc on burgeoning love. We live in a time of political and social turmoil, and the twelve songs on American Love don’t deny this, each one marked by poignant references of the time and place in which they were conceived.

Hailed as an ‘Artist to watch’ in 2017 (Google Play), Fast Romantics is comprised of Angus, Jeffrey Lewis (bass), Kirty (vocals, acoustic guitar, synth), Kevin Black (guitars), Lisa Lorenz (keyboards) and Nick McKinlay (drums). Since reforming the band in 2013, the band has released one full-length LP. Known for their incredible live shows and songwriting prowess, Fast Romantics have received many accolades, including ‘Pop Group of the Year’ at the Sirius XM Indies (2014) and more recently their song “Julia” won the prestigious ‘SOCAN National Songwriting Prize’ in 2016.

Fast Romantics are also kicking off their US, with dates available on Beehive Candy's tour news page, website here, Facebook here.

The music video sets grand expectations prior to the song beginning, however you know the budget will never allow this and a song as wonderful as 'Everybody's Trying to Steal Your Heart' can easily settle for less. It turns out however that both the video and music work perfectly well together, that said the song is just as wonderful with our eyes firmly closed.


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Miranda Lee Richards - The Wildwood.

Background - The Brian Jonestown Massacre collaborator Miranda Lee Richards releases new electronic-pyschedelic track The Wildwood from her upcoming album Existential Beast out on June 16th on Invisible Hands Music. 

Recording her first demo in Kirk Hammett of Metallica's basement, Miranda's record was passed to Anton Newcombe of The Brian Jonestown Massacre and she became a regular collaborator with the band. Having moved out to Los Angeles in the 90's, Miranda became part of the the seminal rock documentary DIG! on the Dandy Warhols and has toured with the band several times since.

Now releasing her fourth album Existential Beast, following the success of 2016's Echoes Of The Dreamtime which received 4* in MOJO & 8/10 in Uncut); Miranda's effortless, 70's influenced psychedelia is evident in the new single - Existential Beast is a political album, examining the issues of our time, but with intent of tackling these difficult and sometimes taboo subjects in a poetic and heartfelt manner. The title is also a mash-up of terms, referencing the existential crisis that has in turn arisen.

“In varying degrees, we are all still working with the animal urges of fear, competition, survival, and sexuality that are deep-seated and manifesting in different ways, depending on where people are at. Perhaps a more endearing outlook is to see this as an assignment in working with the inner child, who can at times behave like a wild beast. But like it or not, these tendencies have been revealed, within our leaders, our countries, and ourselves; it is indeed a pivotal and transformational time.” Miranda Lee Richards. Website here, Facebook here.

'The Wildwood' is the second track we have featured from Miranda Lee Richards 'Existential Beast' album due for release later this week. This is a vibrant, uptempo song with Miranda's vocals taking centre stage, and surrounded by some admirable musicianship, it's another powerful reason to check the new album out.

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Samsaruh - Golden To Thrive.

Background - Melbourne based 18 year old singer-songwriter Samsaruh today releases her debut single 'Golden To Thrive'. Despite her young age, Sam is already an experienced artist having worked with Peking Duk, Way of the Eagle, Just A Gent and performed at Splendour in the Grass while still in High School. 'Golden To Thrive' was written by Samsaruh and her producers Nightflare (Joel Dowling and Tim Coghill -  core members of Matt Corby's band) and mixed by Sean Tallman who recently mixed the Banks record.

On the track, Samsaruh said, "When I was writing ‘Golden To Thrive’ I stumbled upon the reality that stigmas and stereotypes are always going to exist and you’ll never really have control over them. But instead.. we have the power to prove the unknown and the disbelieved. So this song is my power."

From first listen Samsaruh has a musical maturity well beyond her years, performing and writing music for over 5 years now while simultaneously finishing her year 12 studies. At 16 years of age she realised her debut EP ‘Orenda’ which featured singles 'I See', 'Wicked Games’ and 'La Di Da’ - hitting 1, 2 & 3 on triple j unearthed Top 100 chart as well as being added to triple j unearthed radio rotation. Samsaruh also featured on the acclaimed Just A Gent EP track ‘Sounds of her Mind’ and took time out from her year 12 studies to perform with him at Splendour in the Grass as well as his sold out ‘Just A Tour’ late last year.

Despite her age Samsaruh is already an in demand artist, having also worked as a featured vocalist and songwriter with the likes of Slumberjack, FØRD, Kuren, Styalz Fuego and many more. Facebook here.

Just as the saying "never judge a book by it's cover" goes, We could add "never judge an artist by their age". 'Golden To Thrive' showcases Samsaruh's vocals, which exude a maturity I would relate to someone a good few years older. As for the song, it's catchy, the music and production is high calibre, and another artist arrives firmly on our radar.

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Tombstones In Their Eyes - Fear EP.

Background - Los Angeles’ rock outfit Tombstones in Their Eyes have announced the upcoming ‘Fear’ EP, to be released via Send Me Your Head Records. With this five-track release, the four-piece manage to embrace a wide range of influences, from the stoner rock of Kyuss to the warped neo- psychedelia of the likes of Spacemen 3 to the cavernous and doom-laden sounds of Electric Wizard and beyond.

Tombstones In Their Eyes’ currently line-up is John Treanor (guitar, vocals, keyboards, songwriter), Josh Drew (guitar, backing vocals), Mike Mason (bass, guitar) and Stephen Striegel (drums). Their musical influences include The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Elliott Smith and The Melvins. Recorded at L.A.’s Kitten Robot Studio with Paul Roessler (Nina Hagen, The Deadbeats, The Screamers, 45 Grave), this EP follows up their huge sounding ‘Bad Clouds’ EP (2016) and debut album ‘Sleep Forever’ (2014). “Paul knows exactly where I’m coming from and intuitively knows how to make what I’m feeling come through the speakers,” says John Treanor.

The band began life as a demo swapping exercise between John Treanor in L.A. and his childhood friend James Cooper, now in New York, but soon coalesced into a full fledged band. But collectives are always more than what you see on the surface. In John’s case, writing and performing songs is also a way of dealing with severe anxiety and depression, a way of talking about the subject without being the centre of the conversation, and a way of being subliminal rather than direct.

While such a starting point could easily see the music devolve into melancholy and self-absorption, here Tombstones in Their Eyes instead manage to move beyond that place and create music laced with celestial grandeur and a fuzzed out psychedelic majesty that looks out into the universe just as much as it looks inward toward the soul.

This music is also designed to connect rather than be insular. As Treanor says, “Everybody goes through hard periods in their life, and I hope that these songs make them feel less alone.” Tombstones create walls of sound, which are simultaneously sonorous and hazy. These are cavernous, stoner lullabies that descend into post-rock soundscapes and are wrapped in dark shoegazing dreamscapes. The cover design, created by well known psychedelic artist Darren Grealish, brings just the right image to such a mercurial collection. Bandcamp here, Facebook here.

The new 'Fear' EP explodes into action with the powerful riff's that open up 'I Want To Fly'. The EP slips form Alt rock to Shoegaze with ease, it also add in more delicate refrains, whilst throughout the power is always simmering and awaiting it's inevitable chance to return.

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Lo Tom - Overboard.

Background - The members of Lo Tom have a combined 125 years of experience playing in random bands, both together and apart. The group is made up David Bazan (Pedro the Lion), Trey Many (Velour 100, Starflyer 59), TW Walsh (Pedro the Lion, The Soft Drugs), and Jason Martin (Starflyer 59), friends who started playing music together when they were still pretty much kids. The band will release its self-titled debut LP on July 14 on Barsuk.

A conversation with these seasoned musicians about the new album they made together is an exercise in light-hearted brevity:
“These songs were painstakingly honed over the course of… um… two weekends. Then we sat on them for a while.
“We just wanted to make music together and have fun.
“Nobody is in charge… The album cover is pink.”

While many bands are a collaboration between artists with a message, a shared vision for a record, or an idea of a sound they want to create, Lo Tom is a group of friends who missed making noise together and wanted to hang out. The off-hand — almost dismissive — way they talk about the experience of making their self-titled debut masks the excellence of the music they’ve written and produced together as Lo Tom, but perhaps their casual approach to the whole endeavor is part of why it came out so great.

Recorded over two different sessions when they could find the time to spare, the four friends gathered with half-formed riffs and beats to see what would come out of it. The album’s thematic direction is loose and conceptual. The melodies recall Pedro the Lion and TW Walsh, the guitars sparkle with hints of Starflyer 59, and the songs hurtle through the major keystones of guitar rock – tight conversation between percussion and guitar, heavy fuzz, and some genuinely joyful breakdowns that give way to catharsis. Lyrics were mostly written by Bazan, who would take a melody and make up words quickly, then finish them over time.

What makes this record special is not just how it’s built on melodies and riffs and songs with the looseness and ease of four friends who have been making music together for decades, but how vibrant and energetic and smart and funny and fun it is. For fans of a particular brand of indie-rock founded in the seventies and eighties and honed in the nineties and oughts, Lo Tom is one of the best things to arrive in a very long time. Website here, Facebook here.

'Overboard' is the second of eight tracks on the self titled album. As the above background makes clear, this is a band with a wealth of collective experience. The featured song typifies the quality to be found within this collection. As a whole the album comes across as sincere without any self indulgence, it's musicians doing what they love and enjoying the experience, something the listener can easily join in with, and feel welcomed in doing so.

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