Beatrix Players - Franks & Deans - Palace - The Rural Alberta Advantage - The Jar Family - Amanda Mair

Beatrix Players - All That Thinking / Hurt.

Background - London-based all-female trio Beatrix Players have been announced as winners of the Prog Magazine Limelight Award for 2017 at the ceremony last week. The band are celebrating the win with the release of their new, double A side single All That Thinking / Hurt, plus a single launch being held at London's St Pancras Old Church on Thursday 5th October where they will be joined for the evening by the SOUND choir.

The Limelight Award highlights the "emerging talent that's risen to the top of the prog ocean over the past 12 months".

All That Thinking is taken from their 2017 debut album Magnified, and is a song about the difficulty of having a child and the blame that goes on between partners, and the band are delighted to have joined forces with leading national charity Fertility Network UK to help raise awareness of National Fertility Awareness Week which takes place on 30th October - 5th November. This years they are celebrating 40 years since the first successful IVF treatment.

This is a campaign that especially resonates with Beatrix Players' vocalist Amy Birks: “I was told today that 1 in 6 couples experience difficulties with fertility. A fact that took me right back to the NHS waiting room, a very beige room filled with pensive faces; couples and individuals of all ages from all walks of life and all with one thing in common, fertility difficulties” 

All That Thinking begins with these lines 'Sometimes I’m scared, at the end of another wait. All that thinking for nothing because nothing ever came, and I don’t mind if it’s you but I’ll weep if it’s me…'

and those sentiments clearly resonated with the charity - ‘Fertility Network UK are very much looking forward to working with Beatrix Players during this year's National Fertility Awareness Week. Their single, All That Thinking is incredibly emotive and is something we believe will connect with anyone who is struggling, or has, struggled to have a family.'  Susan Seenan, CEO, Fertility Network UK. Beatrix Players website here, Facebook here.

Our fourth feature in under a year for Beatrix Players & that is not a coincidence, they simply & consistently write & perform fabulous songs. Celebrating their winning of the Prog Magazine Limelight Award for 2017 they have now released 'All That Thinking / Hurt'. As long as they keep on producing music of this calibre and we can share them, we will!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Franks & Deans (Feat Frank Voodoo) - Splish Splash.

Background - SquidHat Records is proud to announce the highly anticipated sophomore release from the legendary Franks & Deans! Available digitally, on CD and on limited edition pink vinyl nationally and internationally through MVD Entertainment.

On their second release “The Best You’re Gonna Feel All Day” Franks & Deans keep doing what they do best; f*@king up your grandmother’s music! The Sinatra and Sammy standards are there, from “Fly Me To The Moon” to “Candy Man” but they also extend their unique sound with fresh new takes on The Drifters, Louis Prima, Bobby Darin and Ricky Nelson. A fast paced audio party that is sure to please. 

SquidHat Records is an artist friendly, independent record label and multi-media company created to help talented, interesting, creative and passionate artists record and promote their music or performances, develop their brand and image, and increase their exposure to a larger audience. Our focus includes, but is not limited to, the Punk Rock, Aggressive Indie and Subculture scenes. Franks & Deans website here, Facebook here.

Franks & Deans take a classic track, in the case of our featured song 'Splish Splash' the rework is almost respectful to the original. It's the tip of the iceberg as far as this new collection of material is concerned, their manic, tight & occasionally border line insane punk version are an absolute delight. Don't get me wrong, I am old enough to remember my parents playing some of the originals (honest it was my parents) & those tunes have grown on me over time. However I can't but help feel a warm glow inside with these new versions.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Palace - Live Well.

Background - Palace have released a new single; 'Live Well', taken from their acclaimed debut album 'So Long Forever', which dropped earlier this year on Fiction Records. A fan favourite, the track has been streamed over two million times on Spotify and showcases the band at their delicate, intricate best. The track is written about a relationship ending but ultimately finding positivity in its wake. In the words of front man Leo Wyndham, "It's a hopeful song - about feeling blessed by someone else's love even though it's over and ended."
  
Palace are very excited to be touring as main support to Public Service Broadcasting this month, taking them to twelve venues across the UK, including London Eventim Apollo for the finale on 26th October. Venues of this size are no stranger to the band, who made their debut at Shepherd's Bush Empire this year in support of the album release, having previously sold out London shows at Brixton Electric, Scala and ICA.

It wasn't just UK tours that Palace sold out last year; they sold out their European tour and a number of shows in New York. They also played rapturously received sets at festivals across Europe, including Glastonbury and Reading and Leeds. Closer to home they started their own night called 'Palace Presents' at The George Tavern, London where they played their first ever show and now curate their own monthly line-up. The night is always rammed, which helps support the 600-year-old venue which, like many other independent venues, is constantly threatened with closure.

On the forthcoming shows with Public Service Broadcasting, Leo says "They're a truly amazing and eccentric band and we're pumped to be playing to huge crowds and getting to watch their incredible live show every night." Facebook here.

Our second feature for Palace also taken from the 'So Long Forever' album is the new single 'Live Well'. Subtle melodies and a beautiful arrangement where both vocals and music share centre stage, this is a gentle nudge to check out a really fine album.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Rural Alberta Advantage - Toughen Up.

Background -  The Rural Alberta Advantage, Nils Edenloff, Paul Banwatt and Robin Hatch, will release their new studio album The Wild on October 13th on Paper Bag Records in Canada, United Kingdom and Europe. This week the band is sharing their brilliant new single "Toughen Up". Listen here. Pre-order The Wild on limited-edition yellow vinyl here.

The Rural Alberta Advantage have also announced North American tour dates which will see the band joined by Vancouver's Yukon Blonde for two months beginning October 20th. Canadian dates include stops in Halifax, Ottawa, Vancouver with additional shows now added after quick sell outs in Edmonton and Toronto. Tickets are on sale now. Watch a trailer for the tour here.

Change is constant. Certainly that’s always been the case with the Rural Alberta Advantage. Through three albums, Juno and Polaris nominations, the steady hum of critical praise and the relentless miles of constant touring, the trio have not just been confronted with change, they have been wailing, pounding and sighing their way through it. Change hung over them in the melancholy nostalgia of Hometowns, shook them during the finding-your-feet urgency of Departing and found its way through their cracks in the turmoil of Mended with Gold.

Though it’s always left a mark on the band, as they journey into The Wild, their fourth album, this perpetual change seemed to be casting a darker shadow. Maybe it’s the fact that singer and songwriter Edenloff almost watched his childhood home of Fort McMurray burn to the ground. Maybe it’s just that everyone in the band is getting older. Maybe it’s just that we’ve all had a rough year. But never before has the band felt quite so surrounded by the heaviness of being — nor quite so determined to pull through. Facebook here.

We featured the track 'Brother' from the forthcoming 'The Wild' album last month and the new share 'Toughen Up' confirms for me, that our initial excitement for the album was well founded. This is a band that for reasons I cannot explain, should have received far more exposure & recognition by now.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Jar Family - Debt.

Background - Hartlepool (UK) based 5-piece The Jar Family have just released their new single ‘Debt’ (via Jar Records).  One to check out if you get the chance. It’s a song born from the growing financial concerns seen in their hometown.  In the bands words “it's a song about life in modern Britain and the pressures of the soaring cost of things. It's a big step forward for us stylistically to something more raw and reflective of the times."

Taking their name from the donations jar they passed around at early gigs, the band are a tight knit group who realised that they were stronger collectively than they were individually. Although on paper the idea of five very different and charismatic personalities with a wide range of musical styles working together harmoniously seems unlikely, the fruits of their labor speaks for itself.

The bands distinctive, rootsy sound was created in the remote Cambridgeshire countryside. It’s there that the band built themselves a basic rehearsal studio, and there where they spent over a year living in a ramshackle collection of old caravans, developing and refining what was to become the Jar Family sound.

A relentless touring schedule, alongside supporting the likes of Jake Bugg, Babyshambles, and Alabama 3, has brought their raucous and engaging live show to all corners of the country. Picking up an ever-growing army of admirers as a result of this live activity the band has now established a major fan base of fanatical supporters throughout the UK. Facebook here.

'Debt' is a gritty, earnest rocker from a band that have a very poignant message to share. It is also a dynamic, hot blooded, passion fuelled song that suggests guitar rock has yet another band to keep the genre fresh and relevant.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amanda Mair - Rush / Wednesday.

Background - Amanda Mair is a Stockholm native who gained attention as a teenager with her debut single, “House”. The Washington Post praised her grown up Kate Bush sounds, while Swedish national newspaper Aftonbladet described her album as one of the best Swedish debut albums of all time. Amanda has evolved since her debut – both as an artist and as a songwriter, but also as a person. She spent time focusing on herself and growing up. Her maturity shines through her best work yet on Despotz Records.

“Rush” is a dark and contemplative song about longing to feel the rush of a physical and emotional connection. An eternity has passed since the relationship crumbled. One familiar touch can bring those feelings rushing back. Introduced as a piano ballad, the song turns cold with chilling Trentemøller synths.  

“Wednesday” is a beautiful and atmospheric swan song. The cinematic quality of the song reveals aching emotions as one might imagine a vast landscape devastated by war, or the inevitability of love. This song hits you right in the feels.

In Amanda’s words, “’Rush’ is about when passionate attraction and destructive addiction allows you to repeat the same hurtful mistake over and over again. While ’Rush’ paints a picture of the continual restless searcher, ’Wednesday’ allows you to take a step back and realize the tedious truth of one reality you’ve fallen in love with." Facebook here.

Two tracks from Amanda Mair came our way the other day. They contrast very well & show different ideas & styles from the artist, so lets share them both. 'Rush' and 'Wednesday' are both creative modern pop songs with that hard to express "extra something" that suggest a musical maturity many aspire to, and only a few actually deliver on.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jon Tessier - Tenderhooks - SELKI - Anna Tosh

Jon Tessier - A Minute or Two.

Background - Jon Tessier is a Brazilian-French singer-songwriter who was born in São José Do Rio Preto (Brazil). Equally passionate about music production and songwriting, he began his musical elopement at the age of 14. 

Jon spent childhood and most of his teenage years in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), a time during which he played in several independent rock bands. However over the last 3 years, he’s been working on his music from Ibiza (Spain).

His musical heroes include: Mötley Crüe, Depeche Mode, The Doors, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers as well as the Brazilian “Bossa Nova” artist João Gilberto, amongst many others.

Jon Tessier is a solo artist, who’s musical style can be described as guitar driven pop music with an alternative-rock edge. A new artist with a fresh sound, his music is available on all music streaming platforms including: Spotify, Apple Music and iTunes. Website here, Facebook here.

There's some fine production on 'A Minute or Two' which gives clarity to each musical element. The soundtrack is rhythmic with a subtle melody, the vocals are beautifully matched to the arrangement, on what is a catchy alt rock leaning pop song.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tenderhooks - Yolena.

Background -  Tenderhooks set to release their 5th album North Star. Tenderhooks are a banging in your face 6 piece alt rock pop blues everything but the kitchen sink originals band from the sunny south coast of England. A place called Brighton. They craft unbearably catchy, singalong, toe tapping, hand clapping uplifting, joyous tunes. Infectious and memorable all in a tasty current bun!

Since the beginning of 2017 Tenderhooks have been in the studio recording songs for their latest release called North Star. Yolena the first single from the album has already received excellent reviews. They expect 2018 will be a very busy year.

 Ben Yung of The Revue writes, "If you’re looking for a laugh, you’ve come to the right place and the perfect song. Channeling Blur in their heyday with a touch of the Talking Heads, Brighton veteran rockers Tenderhooks share the whimsical and outrageously fun “Yolena”. The album will be available for purchase/stream on iTunes, Spotify etc from October 6th. Facebook here.

'Yolena' is a blast of fun delivered in style. The band are extremely capable & provide a refined musical arrangement for the fabulous vocals. Catchy, funny and beautifully crafted, I am really looking forward to hearing more.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SELKI - Skins.

Background - ‘Skins’, the fresh new single from Melbourne based artist, SELKI, is about letting go of old layers and having the courage to change, move forward and celebrate your authentic individuality. "I was in Paris, waiting for the ambulance to arrive."

In the first few moments after being hit by a bus, SELKI decided to make a commitment to live authentically and cultivate her passions. A few weeks after being released from hospital, she began to work with Paris based producer, Loici Devat. Unable to play any instruments due to broken bones, the musical direction went to electronic.

"Each of these songs is a mirror for the three months that followed and changed forever my creative direction. Once you have been surrounded by monitors and the possibilities of production, it's hard to go back." It has just taken over a year to find her home back in Melbourne and come full circle.

"I have changed so much and tried and taken off so many skins. It feels good to let these songs make their way into the bigger world. They have been my little orbs of light during an explosive sixteen months." 

Since 2014 and the beginning of the project, SELKI was voted in the top 4 of the first Melbourne Music Bank Competition, has had her songs played on radio on multiple stations in Australia and Europe, with gigs over the last few years throughout Melbourne, along the east coast of Australia and in Paris, London and Rome. Facebook here.

Distinct and gorgeous vocals and a clever indie pop soundtrack ensures 'Skins' is full of hooks & more. If Top Forty radio was full of songs this good, even an oldie like me, might be enticed back.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anna Tosh - Edge Of Cool.

Background - ‘Edge of Cool’ is on Anna’s ‘One Big Fire’ EP, released by espirit de corps on 13 October.  ‘Edge of Cool’ A roaming rocker’s composite of CBGB-era new wave, West Coast anthemics and slick garage riffery, ‘Edge of Cool’ is comfortably the sum of its rousing parts. As Anna and her band dexterously play with the song’s rich ingredients, a segue into darker tones reflects the sense of unease and confusion inherent in its subject matter. “This is an elegy to a relationship that was over before it began,” says Anna. “Afterwards, the guy’s car followed me all around town for a long time, I would see it everywhere and I could not shake it. It’s about being haunted by an illusion.”

London born and bred, Anna Tosh has been lending her considerable six-string skills to a varied roster of bands since she was a teenager, among them Wildhood, Love Nor Money, Hey Gravity and Shotgun Venus. But with her own collection of striking self-penned songs demanding attention, and the assistance of a red-hot rhythm section in waiting – Herman Stephens (bass) and Jeremy JayJay (drums) – Anna decided it was high time to make her mark as a solo artist.

“My intention for my solo project was simply to write some songs for myself, with no boundaries or expectations,” she says. “I was deliberately trying not to think of what anyone else might expect me to do, and chucked the idea of seeming cool out of the window.”

As a musician who has turned her hand to a whole host of styles when performing with others, it was inevitable that disparate influences would shape her songwriting. “My roots are in punk, rock and blues,” says Anna, “but I have been playing and listening to hip hop, drum and bass, funk, psychedelia, dream pop, experimental electronica…” Facebook here.

We featured Anna Tosh back in July with the song 'Weightless' stating that it "has a rhythmic and bluesy feel that is both catchy and a little hypnotic". The newly shared track ‘Edge of Cool’ is another cool rocker with a seventies new wave feel (early Blondie comes to mind), whatever it's catchy and Anna Tosh's vocal delivery is top dollar.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Fluids - Coyote Run - Jenn Vix - The Limiñanas

The Fluids - Sign N' Drive.

Background -  “Sign N’ Drive” is the frenetic and addictive second single that The Fluids have shared from their forthcoming debut album No Kidding! (out October 27th via Axis Mundi Records. Self-proclaimed as America’s Newest Band™, The Fluids were introduced to the world earlier this month with their undeniable, critically-acclaimed debut single “Creatures”, which the New York Times said "...vibrates with the giddy energy of the city’s early-2000s rock scene — the sound is tight, the vibe is loose, the singer’s accent is adopted.”

With their debut full-length, No Kidding! flying high as their banner, The Fluids are storming the front lines of cultural trendsetting with ripping guitar solos and saddlebags filled with tequila sodas, calamari, and what they claim to be the best pot in the city (based on how great this album is, I’m inclined to believe them?!).

The band has drawn apt comparisons to everyone from the Talking Heads and Berlin-era Bowie, to The Modern Lovers and Echo & The Bunnymen. No Kidding! was produced by Matthew "Pickles" Iwanusa of Caveman, and sounds like it could've come out in the late 70's and become an instant no-wave/post-punk classic, but here we are in 2017 with one of the best albums of the year that we can call our own. Facebook here.

Loud upbeat guitar driven rock music is juxtaposed by some beautifully frenetic vocals on 'Sign N' Drive', a powerful slice of alt rock, with the emphasis very much on ALT.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coyote Run - Love From Far Away.

Background - Kasie Shahbaz (Coyote Run) is a multi-instrumentalist from Southern California who by middle school, obsessed with heavy prog rock, and by adult life spent all her nights roaming the hills listening to folk singers under full moonlight. 

Her music is some culmination of those experiences. Inspired mainly by religious experience in nature and in relationships, her music wanes between punk angst and psychedelic ecstasy. She currently resides in Los Angeles, Berlin, and New York where she hides from the city and records herself.

This record was recorded at Shabaz's home in Los Angeles, on porch steps at her parents house in Oceanside, and mostly at a home studio on Catalina Island. It is a sonic elegy of heartbreak, desperation, relief, surrender, and transcendent, sometimes personal, love. In folk jaunts, it lightens and celebrates the simple weight of longing. In driving breakdowns, it tries to break through entrapment. And in psychedelic plateaus, it may find periods of rest. Look out for Coyote Run's upcoming album, "Infinite Disappearance of Fear" dropping this fall. Bandcamp here, Facebook here.

'Love From Far Away' mixes dreamy & melodic vocals plus imaginative harmonies, alongside a laid back soundtrack that leans towards psychedelic rock music. Collectively the layers of sound are gorgeous.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jenn Vix - Complicated Man.

Background - Alternative singer-singwriter Jenn Vix has announced she will release her new EP ‘Unlocked’ on October 20, preceded by the first single ‘Complicated Man’ released last Friday.

Based in Rhode Island, Vix is an American solo electronic-rock recording artist, songwriter, producer and recording engineer, who has, over the years, ventured into other genres including alternative rock, trip hop, darkwave, modern new wave and electro-industrial.

This five-track release sees Vix at her best. With weighty lyrics surrounding personally challenging experiences, her vocal delivery on ‘Complicated Man’ has earned her comparisons to Shirley Manson of Garbage.

“Complicated Man is about covert and or destructive relationships. This EP is inspired by feelings I had when I became ill, and I almost died due to a misdiagnosis, then surgery, and how I made it through it. It also deals with thoughts and feelings I had about people who were in my life at the time of this experience,” explains Jenn Vix.

“I wanted to explore different sounds, and it felt good to do so. After my illness, it took me a year and a half to be able to even listen to music again. Change is scary, but it can also be refreshing. I recently had to burn a few bridges, but they say that the brightest light can come from the bridges you burn. I agree.”

This album involves John Ashton, original guitarist of The Psychedelic Furs, who appears on the track ‘Unlocked’. He previously collaborated with Jenn Vix on two tracks (‘The Woman with No Fear’ and ‘Weirdo’) on her five-track EP ‘Strange Buildings’. Bandcamp here, Facebook here.

The second of five tracks on the 'Unlocked' EP is the new single 'Complicated Man'. There is a remix of the featured single and the title track really is something that fans of The Psychedelic Furs ought to check out. That said this is very much Jenn Vix's show & it's an imaginative, creative collection of material.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Limiñanas - Istanbul is Sleepy (feat. Anton Newcombe).

Background - French psych duo The Limiñanas have released their new single ‘Istanbul Is Sleepy’ through Because Music. Featuring Anton Newcombe (The Brian Jonestown Massacre) and produced at his Berlin studio, the single is taken from their ‘Istanbul Is Sleepy’ EP out 17th November.

Reflecting on the single and their collaboration with Newcombe, Lionel explained, “’Istanbul Is Sleepy’ is like the classic dream where you become the hero, the Captain Blood or Midnight Sultan(??). The one who rescues and seduces Maureen O’Hara or Ava Gardner. Anton is singing and playing guitar on the track. He was inspired, in particular, by The Cult during their ‘Rain’ period. Last year, Mojo magazine asked us to record a cover for a special Kinks tribute. 

We chose ‘Two Sisters’. Marie and I were thinking for the vocal part it would be great to approach Anton Newcombe, having opened for The Brian Jonestown Massacre at Le Trianon in Paris. The work began like that. We had an album to record and we decided to finish it with him. During the Christmas week we took our demos, flew to Berlin and recorded at Anton’s studio. Six days later we had a finished album”.

One of France’s most beloved treasures, The Limiñanas are Marie (drums/vocals) and Lionel (guitar, bass, keyboards and vocals). Hailing from Perpignan, the duo straddles the boundary between psych, shoegaze, and yé-yé. With hazy, reverb-laden hooks, combined at times with noisy distortion, and fronted by effortlessly cool vocals, reminiscent of Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot, the band is at once timeless and quintessentially French. Website here, Facebook here.

Psych music through & through, the music video just adds to the feeling and mood that 'Istanbul is Sleepy' creates. Dark and hypnotic waves of sound are taken even deeper with the vocals, it's a song that could well appeal to Goth music fans of times gone by.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aurganic - Broken Stems - The Patient - Janileigh Cohen - Verandan

Aurganic - Meander.

Background - We had 20 songs written for this release but only 9 made the cut. The making and production of this album took over 2 years to complete. A lot of parts were re-recorded, songs' structures changed, and ideas scrapped. The lack of deadlines helped us find new sounds and experiment with production. This album was completely self-produced. It also marks the first time we handled our own mastering. 

Aurganic is a window into a collaborative thought and emotion of two individuals who dedicate most of their time to the craft of music and sound creation. Separated by distance and connected by technology Aurganic was one of the original online collaboration projects to appear last decade. Rooted in friendship, the project proved its longevity with four independent releases to date.

Aurganic is an experimental electronic/alternative studio project of two long-time friends Michael Kossov and Leo Pisaq. Originally high school classmates, they were members in a number of local punk rock bands until life and distanceseparated them for a number of years. They reconnected musically in 2010 finding a lot of common ground. This time it was electronica, art rock and jazz that dominated the ideas. The reunited duo recorded instrumental sessions in New York and worked on their completion via internet resulting in a self-titled EP. They soon discovered how well they complimented each other with Leo's strong production skills and Mike's compositional ideas.

In September 2017 Aurganic came back with the third full length release "Distant Echoes & Close Encounters". Joey Aguirre was recruited to handle drums and Michael laid all the vocals on the record. The album was completely self-produced giving unlimited creative and production freedom. While overall songwriting is similar to Deviations, post rock and synth rock influences permeate this record from its beginning to an end. Website here, Facebook here.

Of the nine songs that make up 'Distant Echoes & Close Encounters' I chose 'Meander' to feature as I think it is pretty representative of the quality and feel of the album. Both vocals and music are fresh and imaginative, something that remains constant across the collection.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Broken Stems - Rest Assured.

Background - Broken Stems, a San Diego band formed in 2011 was on the verge of collapse just 7 months ago. Their bass player had just quit, their drummer had to move back to Vermont for the spring and summer and their lead singer was about to have a baby, which historically doesn’t blend well with a touring rock band. This was a crucial point that many bands face and ultimately why life can get the better of those childhood rockstar dreams.

The three remaining members decided to get together just for fun to jam out in their old practice space and see what happened. They expected very little to come of it, more of a “let’s have some beers” kind of a practice. But something magical happened on that night. Brad Sweet (keyboards) set up his bass amp to really crank the bass notes on the keys and Jesse Gawlik (guitar/singer) turned up his octave peddle to fill in the low end from his guitar. They didn’t really know how things would sound without a bass player.

They started playing and magic happened, within the night they wrote the song “Rest Assured”. More of a reassurance to themselves that things would work out in the end; have faith in what you’re doing because we’re heading for blues skies. 

That was in the spring of 2017, a lot has happened in just a few months and the world right now more than ever could use some reassurance. The calming words sitting over roaring electric guitar solos that collapse into moody dynamic verses sets a classic tone of rock and roll. 

This is the first single the trio has released together of 5 new songs they recorded in Joshua Tree in a cabin that a friend let them use. The recording was self-produced and recorded by the band and surely lays a foundation of things to come for the San Diego blue-rock band. Website here.

Broken Stems conjure up some potent blues rock with 'Rest Assured'. With passionate vocals and swaggering musicianship from a trio who clearly love playing, the track has a live feel to it, and a very fine one, at that.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Patient - Extension 9.

Background - Elephant 6's Robert Schneider & W. Cullen Hart are The Patient. There comes a time in one’s day to day existence where you egg a friend to get something done. Such is the case with The Patient. 

Started as a collaboration between co-founders of the Elephant Six Recording Company, Robert Schneider (Apples in Stereo) and W. Cullen Hart (The Olivia Tremor Control), they’ve recorded for almost 20 years with nothing to show for it. This release changes that. Chunklet’s A&R staff challenged Robert to finish but one song and “Extension Nine” is the finished product. 

Recorded in Athens inside a geodisic dome, “Extension Nine” is more Talking Heads than Syd Barrett, accidental more than deliberate. Hart is on guitar and sound effects, Robert on vocals, Ben Mize on drums and multi-instrumentalist/luthier/wizard Scott Baxendale on guitar, Mellotron and all sorts of whirring noises. All recorded at Scott’s studio in Athens. This is their first release.

When it was suggested that The Patient do a split single with Robert Schneider’s favorite Atlanta band, Breathers, everything came into place quite quickly.

Beautiful swirling psychedelic vibes are there from the opening chords of 'Extension 9'. The songs fabulous drum lead reprise and what follows makes the song something very special.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Janileigh Cohen - Sister.

Background - Bolton folk singer-songwriter Janileigh Cohen released her new single Sister on 29th September through Funnel Music. “Janileigh is a star in the old fashioned sense of the word. It’s in her blood. She comes straight from the heart and stole mine as soon as I heard her sing” - Beth Orton.

Janileigh is an artist whose voice truly does all of the talking. Vocally and lyrically miles ahead of her young years, she writes on both piano and guitar, with a stunningly emotive voice and a sound influenced by the likes of Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen. Her lyrics tell a personal story; exposing the joy, disillusionment, confusion and romance of life.

Following her previously self-released EP As a Child and cover of Blues Run The Game, which featured on the US TV drama This Is Us and has over 100,00 plays on Spotify, new single Sister is an ode to family. A stripped back and beautifully raw track with an intimate piano intro, the song delicately builds to a chorus full of honest emotion. As Janileigh says, “it’s a very personal song written for my sister, so she knows that I'm always there for her even if I'm far away from home.”

Janileigh has honed her craft busking in her Northern hometown and around Europe, along with performing at open-mic nights, and is a must-see live. Website here, Facebook here.

Gracious and sensitive 'Sister' is beauty in musical form. Janileigh Cohen's vocals are as Beth Orton put it above "star quality". The song complete with a simple musical arrangement allows the melodic vocals to stand out even further. I try to avoid writing this to often however Janileigh Cohen is definitely one to watch out for in the months to come.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Verandan - Follow The Money.

Background - Just prior to the release of their debut s/t EP, Verandan share another taste with 'Follow The Money'. Verandan's debut EP is released via Soliti on the 9th October. The EP will be available via Digital services and Ltd. edition cassette.

The themes of the track are set in a possible near future reality; 'Follow The Money' discusses what it means to people and communities when they become entirely redundant as commercial opportunities and monetary institutions move elsewhere. Feeling conned and left behind by the neoliberalist project, while at the same time feeling as if one  should have known better – the implication here being ”there's nothing here, follow the money”.

Verandan is a new project by Ville Hopponen, who has previously played in different bands throughout the years; Cats On Fire, The New Tigers, Pöllöt and Le Futur Pompiste. Aiding and abetting Ville on his new adventure are a magnificent supporting cast; Aleksi Peltonen (Puunhalaaja, Henna Emilia & Houreet), Aki Pohjankyrö (Black Twig, LOVE SPORT), Kaarlo Stauffer (Black Twig) and Sampo Seppänen (Sofa Pets, Kynnet). Verandan were formed in late 2015 around songs written by Hopponen. Facebook here.

We featured 'Short Dream' from the forthcoming EP earlier this month and 'Follow The Money' is another welcome share prior to the release. Last time I stated "each song is as good as the featured track & from a personal perspective sometimes better" I will allow you to decide if I feel this is a better track, it's all a matter of perspective & personal taste, & this piece tastes real good.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Son Little - Aiming For Enrike - Jeremy Tuplin - Fool Heavy

Son Little - O Me O My.

Background - Son Little has just announced an exciting UK and Euro 'New Magic Tour'. After the release of the brilliant 'New Magic' album via Anti- he will be hitting the road this December to perform across the UK and Europe. The tour begins in Manchester and includes a date at London's Omeara from which he will then be travelling on to dates in Berlin, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and more.

The New York Times described Son Little’s singing as "a voice so careworn it’s almost otherworldly” while Culturefly called the Grammy Winning singer-songwriter and producer, “an Otis Redding for the 21st Century.” Son Little’s anticipated full length album New Magic has finally arrived in stores.

Each of the tracks on New Magic’s draw from the diaspora of American blues and soul that includes not only modern R&B, but also rock & roll and hip-hop and transforms them into a singular sound that is propelled by his mesmerizing and soulful vocals and production that artfully balances between rustic immediacy and hip hop cut-and-paste. 

Son Little first came to the public’s attention through his collaborations with The Roots and RJD2, and has since toured worldwide with artists as diverse as Mumford & Sons, and Kelis, Shakey Graves and Leon Bridges. In addition he won a Grammy for his work producing Mavis Staples. Website here, Facebook here, tour details on Beehive Candy's tour news page.

Every component of 'O Me O My' exudes quality, commitment, and passion. Son Little's vocals are simply fabulous, the musical arrangement competes for attention and the timeless feel of the song just adds more.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aiming For Enrike - Front Runner.

Background - The forthcoming album, “Las Napalmas”, is a “to be or not to be” project, both for the listeners and the band. If you throw yourself into its musical whirlwind, which Tobias and Simen from Aiming For Enrike do every time, we’re pretty sure that you soon will catch on as well. Inside it’s atmospheric, it’s staccato, it’s fierce and it’s fascinating. But most of all it’s a lot of fun.

The common denominator for their music has always been energy and explosiveness, and there’s no doubt that you will be served that on “Las Napalmas”. Songs like “Nibloninan Car”, “Moustache” and “Lactic Acid Trip” hit you like heavy blows in your midriff. In addition, you get slow and more sonic songs like “Social Window”, “Front Runner” and “Hi Ball”.

It may not sound like it, since the songs throw you around with infernal power and firm intensity, but Aiming For Enrike is actually only two musicans: One guitar and one drumkit. Even though it may be difficult to believe it – the album was 100% recorded live in the studio, with only those two musicians in one room.

Together, Aiming For Enrike have created their own universe where everything is centered around what happens between the two of them in a rehearsal space, in a studio and on a stage. What you see is what you hear, and what you hear is pure joy. For the listeners and for the band. Facebook here.

'Front Runner' demonstrates the skill & attention to detail the duo have put into the forthcoming album. Hypnotically rhythmic and addictive the track has tremendous clarity within the mix & a level of freshness that just pulled in my attention.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jeremy Tuplin - Astronaut.

Background - London-via-Somerset newcomer Jeremy Tuplin will release his debut LP ‘I Dreamt I Was An Astronaut’ in on 29th September 2017 via Folkwit Records. Following on from his 2 independently released EPs (2016’s Open Letters and 2014’s Carry The Fire EP), his music was described in The Telegraph Culture section as ‘Stunningly candid… A distinctive deep vocal that has hints of Leonard Cohen and Bill Callahan.’

The album was recorded with long-time collaborator Mark Estall, mostly in his new Marketstall Studio in South Bermondsey (with extra recording taking place in both Tuplin’s and Estall’s living rooms). Musically the new songs take a different direction to the earlier released EPs, combining electronic and synthesised sounds with more acoustic and organic instruments for a ‘retro-futuristic feel’ to branch into a genre which could, possibly, be described as ‘space-folk’.

The theme that underpins his debut album is escapism: “It’s the late 2000 and teens and everyone needs escape in some form or other, from jobs, London, reality, girlfriends, the internet, anything.  You can find it in alcohol, prescription drugs, or in dreams, which are all legitimate methods, but I also found it by getting really into space and the cosmos, which is another, connecting theme in the album (Albert Einstein Song, Where The Light Ends, Robot Love, Astronaut etc). It’s always good to be dragged back though, even if it’s by the things you thought you were trying to escape from, relationships, love, or friends’ weddings, (Kathleen, Did We Lose The Fight?, Feel Good Hit etc)”

Tuplin migrated to London from Somerset in 2011. He has gigged all over the UK but has found a home from home with London’s Lantern Society collective. A busy summer saw him play at Boomtown Fair, and the album launch show on 26th October at Paper Dress Vintage Hackney Central will be followed by tours of the UK and Spain. Facebook here.

With a fabulous vocal range that can and does hit some deep notes, Jeremy Tuplin only needed an average song  & I would have been hooked. 'Astronaut' just happens to be wonderful & should sell the new album in it's own right.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fool Heavy - Gusto (album).

Background - The ‘90s are back in a big way- just ask Long Island garage-rock duo Fool Heavy. Seamlessly melding elements of the era’s grunge and alternative wave they’ve forged a sound that’s somehow both nostalgic - in its carefree self-deprecation and Cobain-esque guitars - and modern, with a steadfast aggression akin to today's apathetic millennia. Fool Heavy’s got the guts, the glory, and just the right amount of angst to bring forth the best parts of the musical culture that defined a generation. Generation X, that is.

The band’s inaugural LP, Gusto which is out this week and available as a pay-what-you-want release on Bandcamp, pays homage to a world that’s grown sarcastic, impatient, and sick of being unheard. The eight-song debut calls upon a youthful apathy, with outrageous highs and flickering lows in way that’s cathartic, familiar, and unapologetically honest. Singer-songwriter Taylor Berke (ex-Soda Bomb) and co-vocalist Sam Coughlin are unafraid to hold a mirror to themselves in a raw display of conviction in both the delivery, and the message itself – life is shi; live it up while you can. Through the span of the record, they’ll convince you to do just that.

Michael Abiuso of The Gay Blades and The Venetia Fair recorded, mixed, and mastered Gusto at Behind the Curtains Media‘s studio in a way that raises a glass to its ‘90s predecessors. Dialing in thrashing drums, melodic mid-range bass and a hell of a lot of reverb, Abiuso serves as both producer and puppet-master to hone in a sound that’s unique to the duo. Each note, each squeal of feedback, and each and every distorted holler feels relevant and important. And while Gusto may be Fool Heavy’s freshman effort, its clear that this isn’t the pair’s first rodeo.

The writing is strong, it’s authentic, and it engages over and over. With witty lyrical quips and ethereal hooks, the band’s double vocal dynamic proves to be the driving force behind songs that refuse to be predictable. It’s a powerful record and a promising first-offering from two minds venturing off the deepest ends of mania. If it’s any indication of what Fool Heavy has to offer this world, you’re in for a frenzied and fearless ride. Bandcamp here, Facebook here.

Garage rock & a huge layer of passionate attitude & energy resonates throughout the new album 'Gusto'. They do soften the pace on occasion allowing the listener to pause for breath, thankfully we are allowed to embed the whole album, so feel free to check it all out below.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Year of October - The Prids

Year of October - Lost.

Background - Nashville, Tennessee - Gritty Music City blues rock band, Year of October, is excited to release new single "Lost", from their impending October LP, “Trouble Comes”. “Lost” is a heavy blues rock groove with chunky guitar tones and a classic rock beat. Self-described as "fuzz soul", husband-wife fronted band, Year Of October blends Josh's metal and blues background with Phlecia's jazz and soul-drenched vocals. 

Prior to this release, the singer-guitarist-drummer trio played over 250 shows a year throughout Tennessee, Kentucky, and the South after releasing their critically-acclaimed last album Golden Days. They have built up a loyal fan-base, and have received raving media attention from a number of notable outlets. 

Phlecia says of the new project, “We like to take influences from all genres of music. We find inspiration in everything and I think if something is good then it doesn’t necessarily have to sound just like us to be a major influence. Website here, Facebook here.

The second feature this month for Year of October with the brand new track 'Lost'. It's another feast of blues rock goodness & again the vocals just ooze soulful passion whilst the music is potently determined.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Prids - Summer Cult.

Background - Portland-OR based, noise pop band, The Prids, share their new single and video, "Summer Cult," from their forthcoming album.  Do I Look Like I'm In Love? is due out via This-a-Way Records. The album was recorded at Rock nRoll B&B on Sauvie Island, 15 miles north of Portland. It was recorded and co-produced by Sean Flora (The Shins, The Black Keys, Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks). The band is currently on tour supporting The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart. 

Lead single and title track, "Do I Look Like I'm In Love?", is a dark reflection on modern life and its meaninglessness. Being a part of the scene for over 20 years, the band has reflected upon the way modern culture has changed independent music and autonomy. Having spearheaded the Pacific Northwest DIY scene, bassist and vocalist Mistina La Fave, vocalist and guitarist David Frederickson, drummer Gordon Nickel and keyboardist and bassist Tim Yates, The Prids's career has spanned over 20 years. The band has toured alongside Built to Spill, among other notable acts, and Henry Rollins is a long time fan. Having faced a life altering brain hemorrhage in Spring 2015, La Fave and the rest of the band are set to pick up where they left off with this forthcoming release. The album comes out on the band's own DIY label, This-a-Way Records, which has been instrumental in the band's culture for the past 20 years. 

Do I Look Like I’m In Love? illustrates the Portland dark pop band’s mettle through keen lyrical observations, but also in its attention to sonic detail and song craft—this record couldn’t have been made by any other band at any other time. “Do I Look Like I’m In Love?” and “The Shape” both swirl and build like dreams filled with grey skies and the flickering faces of past friends and lovers. These songs nudge up against the air-brushed punk of “Lie Here” and the bass-driven “Colliding,” which recalls the dazed jangle of early R.E.M. More than two decades in, The Prids have made the best and most cohesive album of their career. Facebook here.

The music is stripped back to start & gradually adds some layers to build into a refined rock soundtrack. This is a very fine match for the vocals and harmonies on 'Summer Cult' where the understated melody and swathe of hooks make for a stand out song.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The U.S. Americans - Leisure Club - Tusk - Cold Reading - Ritual Talk

The U.S. Americans - Fade Out.

Background - NYC-based progressive psychedelic punk-rock band, The U.S. Americans, announce the release of their debut album, Greatest Hits, due out October 27th 2017. Produced by Scott Von Ensign and executive produced by Daniel Deychak, Emerson Williams, Roy Abraham and Jeff Weiss, Greatest Hits, is a collection of the best of progressive, psychedelic punk from the sons of liberty, The U.S. Americans.

The group developed as a live act. Highlark Magazine caught a live show and reported, "the Americans had me from the word go as vocalist Jeff Weiss proudly hoisted a United States Championship belt overhead and outward toward the audience." The belt has become a major part of the live show and House of Glory, New York’s largest independent wrestling company, has used their music in their lively wrestling video compilations. Isaac Rodilla from HOG says, "The team here at HOG has dubbed U.S. Americans as the best band in the USA. We gave them the championship belt and it's not just for this year... it's 4 life."

Highlark Magazine went on to say, "In terms of performance, Weiss’ voice and flamboyant gestures were enchanting and, not to be outdone, the instrumentals were so well done that I took for granted how good they were... concert-goers who didn’t need any more incentive to love America." 

Producer Scott Von Ensign distilled the energy of their live show into an under-an-hour record. Sporting an array of songs as diverse as Queens and spanning timelines between 90 seconds and 9 minutes, Greatest Hits is a fun trip into the world of Cuban gangsters, cinema, promiscuous cutlery, board games, Kings County, and oral hygiene. Website here, Facebook here.

Described above as a "progressive psychedelic punk-rock band" the U.S. Americans have covered a lot of bases, however the new song 'Fade Out' suggests it's a reasonable description. The music video is a creative and intriguing montage of images, the song seemingly suppressing an overload of emotional power, & put together this is a superb piece.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Leisure Club - Hold On.

Background - Leisure Club is a home for the conjuring of pop songs focused on groove, catchy guitar melodies, and vocal hooks. Although the Vancouver five piece was forged in 2016 by their mutual interest in living the most relaxed life possible, their live performances inspire a rhythm in the crowd akin to spring break. 

“Leisure Club compact a whirlwind summer of love, lust and heartache into 3.5 minutes” (PR Press) and “you can’t help but want to mix a pina colada for your friends wearing a one-piece by a pool” (Betty & Kora). This has led to them sharing the stage with the likes of Blossoms, Lawrence, Cub Sport, Louise Burns, and a performance at Ponderosa Festival.

Saddling up with producer Shawn Cole (You Say Party, Yukon Blonde, Bend Sinister) the group headed to The Noise Floor on Gabriola to record their debut self titled LP with Jordan Koop manning the board. Slated for release in the fall of 2017, Leisure Club looks forward to sharing it’s nostalgic charm and summer breeze across North America

Their latest single "Hold On," is off of their upcoming self-titled LP due for release November 17th. Website here, Facebook here. 

Bright and fresh 'Hold On' is a catchy indie song, where both vocals and music add to the upbeat vibes.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tusk - Matter Of Time.

Background - Nottingham's Tusk is a five-piece, twin guitar, alt-rock band hailing from the same university campus that gave us London Grammar, Childhood and Amber Run.

After uploading their song ‘Dull Ache’ onto Soundcloud mid-2016, they were invited to play the BBC Introducing stage at Reading & Leeds Festival 2016; Clash Magazine voted them a 'top 3 pick' in their Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition, and Dean Jackson from BBC Introducing (East Midlands) recorded and broadcast two live studio sessions on his weekend show.

Since this early interest, the band has built a solid local live fan-base and written and recorded a collection of new songs. One of these new songs, Matter Of Time, is their debut single.

Lyrically the song tackles isolation, paranoia and broken relationships. Specifically, it’s about the rise of animosity between friends as one begins a new relationship and the other quickly attempts to destroy it by spreading lies and half-truths. With friends like that, who needs enemies? The single was produced by Rob Milton and mixed by Monkey Gun, 'Matter Of Time' is available from 3 November 2017 on Strataville. Website here, Facebook here.

Alt rockers Tusk have come up with a fine song in the shape of 'Matter Of Time'. Musically it's a tight rock track with a subtle funk vibe that morphs into more sweeping sounds. The distinct vocals are the icing on the cake, giving the band some real edge.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cold Reading - Sojourner EP.

Background - After releasing their huge single ‘Books & Comfort’ in late July, which gained a lot of attention in Germany, UK and Switzerland, Cold Reading have just released their new EP ‘Sojourner’ via Krod Records. The record consists of four heartwarming, inspirational tracks situated somewhere between contemporary Indie Rock and 90’s influenced Emo.

The House & The Arrival: During the writing process, the band withdrew to a small cabin in the back-country of their hometown. With wintery temperatures outside and comforting warmth by the fireplace inside, the four songs that are now released on Sojourner came to life. The intention was to capture that cosy, pleasant and peaceful atmosphere the group experienced up there in the music as well. The cover design goes along with this nicely. The cabin symbolizes the consoling sensation and the warmth of having arrived.

Sojourner means arriving and finding refuge: Looking for a place in this world was already the central motive behind the lyrics on Cold Reading’s first album, where the main concern was the search. The new EP Sojourner picks up where Fractures & Fragments left off.

Singer Mike Portmann describes the lyrical content of the EP as follows: Inspired by changes that came along in my personal process, I wanted to emphasize a hopeful continuation of my progress. The lyrics capture moments on my journey and act as snapshots along the way. I learned to draw hope from different wells and to find solace within myself, as I’ve gotten better at putting up with setbacks and understanding failing as part of a development. To reconcile with myself is the vital element for me to accept myself.

Over the past couple of years the band toured all over Europe and the UK supporting bands like Such Gold, Little You Little Me, The Deadnotes and opening for the likes of Four Year Strong, The Hotelier, The Flatliners and The Get Up Kids. Facebook here.

The four song EP 'Sojourner' is made up of consistently good indie rock, each track carries it's own weight & Cold Reading mix up the moods and styles, with plenty of hooks along the way.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ritual Talk - Dancing Still.

Background - Brooklyn-based, psychedelic indie rock band, Ritual Talk, announce their debut EP, Rippled Glass, due out in October 2017. 

The EP was recorded in several places - 4 out of 5 of the drum tracks were produced in Philly, vibraphone and cello were recorded at the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music with Jack Hallenbeck (Scott James, OSHUN) and nearly everything else was produced and recorded in the band's apartment in NYC. The EP was mixed by Chris Shaw (Modest Mouse, Wilco) and mastered by Chris Gehringer (Yeasayer, Chairlift). 

Primary songwriter, Alex DeSimine (vox, guitar, keys), began writing music in his adolescence as a means of sorting out a jumbled mind. The band came to fruition when DeSimine moved in with bassist, Alex Tremitere and drummer, Tom Criblez, and elicited the help of Dylan Gleit (guitar, vox), who previously performed with Criblez and Tremitere, and TJ Alcala (keys, vox). The band's distinct vocal layers, with all five members signing live, added a new level of excitement to their live set. Live dates are over on Beehive Candy's Tour News Page, Facebook here.

Melodic and powerful 'Dancing Still' does indeed have some psychedelic overtones, alongside a vibrant chorus line, plus some sensitive & more dreamy moments.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Darto - Jennings Couch - Expanda Fuzz - Glances - The Dirty Youth - Jude Shuma

Darto - No Self.

Background - Aagoo Records has just released two packages of goodness simultaneously: The first is ‘Human Giving’, a full length album from Seattle-based four-piece Darto. The second is the 'Follow Up / Hush' 7” featuring Darto and Wand, who wrote and performed these tracks together. They have also released the new creepy video for 'No-Self'.

'Human Giving' was preceded by the single 'I Am', which The Big Takeover Magazine calls "a catchy sultry melancholic downtempo synth-infused psych-trip combining the best of Cate Le Bon, The Velvet Underground, The Brian Jonestown Massacre, and The Black Ryder".

The album's mood is immediately clear from the first note of 'GDLS', enveloping the space around the listener. By the time 'I Am' enters, the sound and feeling transitions from lush and inviting, to focused and intentional with the keyboards and strings propelling the movement. The lyrics and accompanying melodies float along seamlessly like being lulled into a dream. 

“Despite all of its catchy qualities, ‘Human Giving’ is a difficult album to pin down. The lyrical phrasing, and melodies have been stuck in my head for months,” says Alec Dartley of Aagoo Records. “It takes me to a place filled with light, despite the psych realms the band takes us”.

As the record progresses, splashes of Americana seem to emerge, painting subtle pictures of the American West, or a vast expanse that we would associate it with. It’s a momentary visit to those places as Darto keeps moving, exploring new worlds. The album closes in a cinematic soft way, where the constant is an emotional hook that dives into the human condition. This is an open story, suggestive but with room for the listener to fill in the blanks. Website here, Facebook here.

Twelve gloriously unique tracks make up the new 'Human Giving' album. 'No Self' provides some incite into this collection. The band have a structured sound that is let loose in different directions, moods and feelings. The constant is a hypnotically addictive and often very catchy vibe. If you are looking for some music that is adventurous, different and also unpretentious, this album is all of that and more.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jennings Couch - Serotonin.

Background - If artists are considered to be the summation of their influences, then the upbringing experienced by 22 year old Jennings Couch has served him up with a veritable feast from which to define his musical palette. Born in the urban wilderness of New York City, raised in the quiet tranquilly of rural England and made on the streets of West London, this is a man who embodies the virtues of his environments whilst imbuing his artistic output with reflections of all of his life experiences and observations to date.

A chance meeting with record producer Kevin Malpass set Couch on a path to which music would take on central importance in his life. In Couch’s forthcoming debut album, the pair have produced a startlingly powerful body of work which manages to balance the notion of embracing universally appealing lyrical themes with a musical path less trodden; a conscious rejection of the preordained formulas commonly used to write music. The pitch perfect harmonisations and anthemic arrangements that Jennings creates provides fans with rich and varied soundscapes that compares to the likes of The 1975, Coldplay and Alt J. His lyrical content deals with a range of philosophical, social and scientific ideas from studies of time to quantum physics, demonstrating a level of intellectualism and maturity way beyond his years.

“I couldn’t quite suppress the science geek in me!” Jennings mock defends himself, before countering “There is plenty of relationship stuff in there too, just done in my own special way....the song,  'My Dear Andromeda' for instance, is an example of me writing about something I’m passionate about whilst making sure it also comes across as a relatable love song.”

It is an adoption of British eccentricity that goes beyond the novel or the skin deep, resulting in an enthusiasm for amassing retro collectibles, from pocket watches and clothing, to furniture and rudimentary tech. This is a character formed in part by his environment, yet utterly bereft of the notion of conforming. With Couch himself the embodiment of the archetypal classic front man, bringing a genuine drive and charisma on stage, theirs is a show like no other. By early 2017, and having perfected their craft week in and week out at numerous haunts across the UK, Couch’s band were on their way to Austin, Texas to perform at SXSW. Initially only invited for one show, they managed to gain the attention of numerous promoters and demand was such that they were added to the line-ups at both the The Apple Music House and the BBC British Music Embassy at Latitude 30. It was a vote of confidence embraced with open arms.

Jennings Couch’s new single ‘Serotonin’ is a powerful alternative rock song inspired by the neurotransmitters within the human brain and their effect on behaviour. He has once again managed to take an idea so abstract such as neuropsychology and morph it into the relatable subject of two lovers. Through enchanting lyrics and trance- inducing melodies, Jennings Couch urges the listener to delve into the world of Freudian psychotherapy, just for a moment. The accompanying music video, taking the form of a Victorian therapy session, reinforces the entrancing nature of the music. Website here, Facebook here.

The vocals are striking from the very start, the melody and hooks are quickly present as well. I have some personal knowledge regarding 'Serotonin' and how it effects our behaviour and mood. The song is sensitive to something that can have a huge impact on an individuals life, & the video is for me amusing and just right for such an impressive song.
 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Expanda Fuzz - The Last Of The Who Heads.

Background - Expanda Fuzz is a duo from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, conceived while attempting to rip apart a Pink Floyd song with a distorted bass and a fuzz-driven guitar through a ripped speaker cabinet...while playing to a Roland 404 sampler. 

The result of that experiment can be heard on the duo’s first record ‘Bleuets’, where they showcase their brand of catchy, drone-y, post-punk songs that hook heavily into a psych-garage sound. Think Kim Deal fronting the Velvet Underground, or Mary Timony jamming with Suicide. 

The band was formed in 2016, and during last year, they performed notable festivals like Ottawa Explosion and Edmonton's Up + Downtown Festival. They released their first EP 'Bleuets' in the late summer of 2016. 
That was followed, appropriately in September with the single 'Sonic Halo', an original track backed with Earth Wind and Fire's 'September'. Now in 2017 we have the latest release - The Last Of The Who Heads. Facebook here, Bandcamp here.

The title track from the new EP is 'The Last Of The Who Heads'. This is our second feature for Expanda Fuzz (the first was last December), and they have come up with a three track EP that builds considerably on previous works. Powerful, warm and intense rock, that cuts to the chase, the duo really are carving out a defined sound of their own.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Glances - SEM.

Background - There’s more to a story. Glances is a recording project out of Chicago, Il. In 2012 Micah Waldron moved into an artist loft in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood where he met Ashley Thompson, cute. 

About a year later Ashhh spent some time on a farm in Hawaii where she met Christian Whiting (Chin). Through her persuasive nature she convinced Chin to move to Chicago where the three of them started playing music together. Eventually an album started to form. It was an accident.

‘I feel very close to you right now’ is a collection of songs that strive to portray the the hidden meaningfulness of impermanence by examining it through the context of a relationship. Before we weren’t close, now we are, soon we will not be. It’s meant to be listened to, preferably together. Website here, Facebook here.

'SEM' is the second of ten tracks on the new album. Glances seem to go with their imagination wherever it might take them. Creative and imaginative, the album has no particular genre that can label the music. The featured song gives some idea, expect a lot more, I would also agree with the bands view, that this is an album that is at it's best, when listened to as a whole.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Dirty Youth - Hurricane.

Background - The Dirty Youth are back with their explosive new single ‘Hurricane’, released on Friday 22nd September through Marshall Records. The band kicked off 2017 with the announcement that they were the first band to sign to Marshall Records. This was followed by the news that they would be heading to the legendary Abbey Road Studios to lay down new material.

'Hurricane’ is the first taste of what you can expect from a rejuvenated band with the world in their sights. Epic in every sense of the word, the track fuses the huge sound and instantly memorable choruses - the hallmarks of the TDY sound. Sweeping and yet punchy, emotive whilst taking no prisoners, ‘Hurricane’ is the sound of a band flexing their considerable sonic muscles and demanding your attention.

‘Hurricane’ was released 22nd September through Marshall Records and is accompanied by the B sides ‘San Frandisco’, ‘Hurricane (Acoustic)’ and a remix of “San Frandisco” by New Black Light Machine. Website here, Facebook here.

The choruses on 'Hurricane' explode into powerful, full on rock & it's the verses that are more understated & melodic. Epic? You bet it is!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jude Shuma - Reflection.

Background - Chicago-native singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jude Shuma has cultivated an indie-meets-chillwave sound that indisputably harnesses its charisma from a stimulating psychedelic style.  To date, Shuma has released three critically-applauded EPs, 'Afternoonified,' 'Biggest Hits,' and 'Insomnium,' that have awarded the artist syncs in some of TV's most recognizable programs including HBO's Ballers,  CW's Riverdale, and ABC's Quantico.

Shuma's provision for fans after the two single releases of "Lemonade" and "Reflection," is a new full-length album Reflection.  Jude's fourth project provides a further appreciation for those familiar with Shuma's dexterous aesthetics, as the album consists of nine tracks that traverse Shuma's trademark sedative style from "Coasting," to "Dreaming," and finally ending with a "Champagne Cigarette." Throughout the record, Shuma's ethereal vocal style shines atop a mixture of strummed guitar melodies and additional organic instrumentation.

Fully encompassing the psychedelic nature of the music, Shuma has also released an official music video for album cut "Reflection," which sees Shuma create a fanciful world of the bizarre. Exploring the oddities of suburbia, Shuma fully envelopes the viewer into his world where abnormalities and social faux-pas reign free. Facebook here.

There is just a hint of The Beach Boys 'Surfs Up' era feeling to 'Reflection'. View that as a complement, this is no copycat affair. Gently psychedelic and dreamy, this is a wonderful, melodic and enticing song.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------