Thyla - ARY - Everything by Electricity - Martha Ffion - Corniglia - Samsaruh - White Room

Thyla - Tell Each Other Lies.

Background - You’d be hard pressed to find a city that possesses quite as much exciting emerging talent as Brighton right now, and dream pop outfit Thyla’s new single Tell Each Other Lies suggests it’s time to add another to the growing list.

In their euphoric latest offering, Thyla’s endless potential is laid bare once more with sprawling guitars, intense drum beats and the mesmerising vocal prowess of frontwoman Millie Duthie signalling a damning statement of intent heading into 2018.

Having shared the stage with everyone from Dream Wife and Matt Maltese to Yonaka and Trudy and the Romance over the past twelve months, the band’s fierce live reputation continues to grow at a rapid pace, with support slots for The Wytches scheduled before the year is out.

Discussing their upcoming release, the four-piece stated: “Tell Each Other Lies is about the fear of confrontation; pretending everything’s dandy and skipping through life suppressing how you really feel for the sake of an easy ride. It’s about putting up with your loved one’s worst traits because you love them and you know they’ll never change, and it’s about coming to the realisation you wouldn’t want them to anyway”. FACEBOOK.

I have to agree that Brighton on the south coast of England has given us plenty of fine new artists and music this year. Thyla and their new song 'Tell Each Other Lies' continues the momentum, this time with a lush and buoyant dream pop piece that is instantly lovable.

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

ARY - Anymore.

Background - After releasing their debut single "I Think It's You" in September, three months later, the band ARY reveals their newst single "Anymore". "This song is all about overcoming our fears and don't let anyone think they can play us  around or tear us apart." - Erika Martyns.

ARY are a Portuguese Alt. Electro-Rock band from Lisbon formed by members Erika Martyns, Dénis Rhomays, Ziig Mendes and David Rodrigues.

The roots of the project began with Erika (vocals) and Dénis (producer/guitar). A new soundscape was planned, an energetic blend between catchy melodies, hard hitting drums, electronic elements and heavy guitars. Something was still missing. The liveliness of being in a room playing music with more people, the felling of being part of a group...

For these and many other reasons, Ziig (bassist) joined the band. ARY started to make sense and grow as a solid project, but nevertheless, one critical element was still missing. Rhythm. David Rodrigues (drummer), joined the gang and became the missing piece the band was looking for. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

'Anymore' is a passionate electro rocker, where the positive energy levels are notable across both vocals and the dynamic music.


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

Everything by Electricity - Last Day Of The Sun.

Background - “There is a powerful agent, obedient, rapid, easy, which conforms to every use, and reigns supreme on board my ship. Everything is done by means of it. It lights it, warms it, and is the soul of my mechanical vessel. This agent is electricity. Everything by Electricity”. Jules Verne, 20000 leagues under the sea.

Whilst lush pop beats strongly at its heart, dense waves of guitar, reverberating walls of noise and fragile melodies collide amidst sparkling neon-lit synths, dreamy vocals and ghostly shapes via the night sky; anchored tight by pulsing bass, throbbing drums and drum machines.

The band’s sound is littered with the strains of alienation and longing for escape one would expect from childhoods spent gazing across cold barren landscapes deep behind the iron curtain.

On moving from Siberia to London, Yulia (guitar, synths, vocals) quietly crafted a collection of demo material in her bedroom studio and expanded the live line-up with the addition of Daniel (bass guitar, synths) and Manoela (drums, pads). WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

Expansive sounding dream pop with melodic hooks galore 'Last Day Of The Sun' is a beautifully atmospheric song.

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

Martha Ffion - We Make Do

Background - Irish-born, and now Glasgow based singer-songwriter Martha Ffion announces new album entitled 'Sunday Best’ which will be released on Turnstile in early 2018. To celebrate the news Martha Ffion has also released a track from the album - the wonderful ‘We Make Do’.

It’s perhaps true to say that our relationship with music is steered solely by connection. Sometimes that’s a very direct thing; the words we sing along to relatable to our own desires and experiences.
Occasionally, however, it manifests itself in other ways, a captivation drawn from something we can’t conveniently place or pigeon-hole; songs and sentiments we watch from afar, trying to find a way inside.

Martha Ffion’s work has always flourished within the latter of these two paths. While her Irish roots and current home city of Glasgow have undoubtedly informed her work, so many of her songs resonate all the more for feeling wildly devoid of time and place, an alluring cast of characters drifting in and out of focus, each one examining Ffion’s own thoughts on what it means to be “good” in a society that has such determined expectations.

Initially breaking through with a ‘postcard single’ on Scotland’s flourishing Lost Map label, Ffion’s reputation soared with last year’s ‘Trip’ EP, a swooning five-track collection that was released by Turnstile Music (Cate Le Bon, Gruff Rhys, Charlotte Church, Emmy the Great etc.) and championed by GoldFlakePaint for its “beautifully melodic sway”. Written entirely in Glasgow since her move from a distinct Catholic upbringing in small-town Ireland, and recorded with her full live band by Jamie Savage at Glasgow’s Chem 19 Studio (King Creosote, The Twilight Sad, Emma Pollock).

Ffion’s debut album, ‘Sunday Best’, spans the first songs she properly wrote to her most recent compositions, and is by far her most adventurous and accomplished work to-date, the lush instrumentation bringing her detailed lyrical vision to life through a series of gleaming guitar-pop songs that drift between soft-centred balladry and something altogether more cutting and forceful. FACEBOOK.

'We Make Do' is a gorgeously refined singer-songwriter piece, where the melodic vocals skip and glide above a slightly understated sound track that none the less adds just enough contrast to make this a very catchy track.

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

Corniglia - But It Wasn't That Long Ago.

Background - Corniglia is an ethereal, psychedelic duo project from Perth, Australia, comprising Chloe and Matt. Matt, the primary songwriter, works as a physio, where he is privy to the sort of deep self-reflection that people seldom share openly and honestly. He listens to confidences regarding the most fundamental aspects of health, life and the passage of time. In these profound circumstances, to his surprise, some are at peace, but many more are not — the time has gone too quickly, they are not ready, it was not enough and they want more. Matt listens and gives them care.

“This idea that a lot of people aren’t that happy in their later years and watching people dying early does make me question how we live our life.”

There is a dark and somber beauty suffusing all of the art the group produces. It is the layers of sinewy texture overlaying the tracks. It’s in the lyrics that paint abstract portraits of these impressions. It’s in both Chloe and Matt’s voices. Chloe lends her artistic strength, as well as her voice to the band. She was raised to adolescence in Italy, before moving to Australia and continuing her creative studies.

Corniglia is a respite from and a reflection on the very peculiar world of Matt and Chloe. The two do not just write and record all of the music but also make all of the art and all of the videos for the project. It is an endeavour that is entirely DIY, with all of the artistic output, naturally with the help of family and friends who help them realise their vision, made by Matt and Chloe at the home they share. Their new single, "But It Wasn't That Long Ago," is from their upcoming, self-titled debut album. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

The vocals and harmonies have something of a timeless psychedelic vibe to them on 'But It Wasn't That Long Ago' a melodic and beautiful song, that certainly leaves me wanting to hear the forthcoming debut album.

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

Samsaruh - Beautiful Killer.

Background - Samsaruh shows no signs of slowing down as she continues an incredible 2017 with the success of her debut single 'Golden to Thrive' - and just releasing her follow up single 'Beautiful Killer'. The Melbourne based 19 year old singer-songwriter's debut release was added to high triple j rotation and triple j unearthed rotation as well as earning her the tile of Feature Artist on triple j unearthed. 

‘Golden To Thrive’ charted in the Spotify Australia Viral Charts Top 30 as well as charting in the Shazam Top 100 Australian Chart for over 6 weeks, with over 25,000 Shazams of the single through radio play. The single was widely loved by media and fan alike, helping Samsaruh recently take out the triple j unearthed Falls Festival competition in Lorne.

Her new single ‘Beautiful Killer’ is a another exploration of Samsaruh as an artist, demanding and powerful - this track shows off why the 19 year old artist has stopped everyone in their tracks. Written by Samsaruh and production team Nightflare, the track was mixed by Tony Buchan who has worked with the likes of Montaigne and The Preatures and mastered by Brian Lucey (Arctic Monkeys, Chet Faker).

On the track Samsaruh said, "When I was writing this track, it was about the kind of people who are alluring, irresistible and sometimes illusional. The kind of person everyone knows, the kind of person that blinds you of the darker side and mostly the kind of person that we allow to deceive us anyway.  We are all beautiful killers, sometimes we don't know it and sometimes we aren't afraid of it. " FACEBOOK.

The soundtrack has a layer of the dramatic, from the opening moments. 'Beautiful Killer' mixes powerful and captivating vocals with a feisty musical arrangement along with masses of hooks.

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

White Room - Circles.

Background - White Room have released their double EP Eight (1st December) via Deltasonic Records. Their new record, featuring eight songs that intertwine through their lyrical and sonic themes, has already spawned hit singles ‘Stole The I.V’, ‘Take Me Away’ and ‘Cable-Built Dreamland’ with widespread support throughout the online community (DIY, Clash, Dork, Wonderland) and sell-out shows in London and Brighton on their debut headline UK tour.

The final instalment of Eight, the aptly titled ‘Circles’, denotes a full stop but also infinity with the song itself calling for inclusivity and tolerance, succinctly tying together all the themes in the EP.

Guitars gleam and choruses glide, wedding the transcendental nous of quirky, genre-bending bands such as Talking Heads and The Brian Jonestown Massacre to the heady, insouciant appeal of Primal Scream. Eight was made for now and the current state of affairs that besiege our youth, whilst offering up the chance to escape from them for a moment and embrace all that is still intrinsically beautiful in the world. It’s made for dancing around without a care in the world or for sitting down, headphones in, looking for a new perspective. Either way, it will make you feel something.

Taking inspiration from the current social and political climate of the world and the uncertainty we live with, the synergy between the lyrics and themes signified by 8 – the number of infinity – hints at the real depth within Eight, touching on aspects of joy, strength, balance and power in unity.

Discussing the upcoming release, the band stated: “In Eight we are offering a way to lose yourself from it all and find an escape for a moment from all the horror and pain that is happening all around us. To embrace the ability music has to take you away from the harsh realities of daily life”. FACEBOOK.

We are back to Brighton again, this time for White Room and the track 'Circles' taken from the new double EP 'Eight'. This band never fail to impress me with their imaginative and totally engaging songs. So fourth time around on Beehive Candy and I just have to recommend checking out the new and creative EP!

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

Hero Fisher - Lauran Hibberd - KYLYPSO - Bartees & The Strange Fruit - Wild Child

Hero Fisher - I Let Love.

Background - "I wanted to write a song where the focus jumped from person to person, like a contagion. The idea was that each verse would be an ordinary “day in the life of” each character, and that whatever was going on was a banal and daily grind. Each character would be possessed with this spirit, making them push on through, and shake off their demons.”

Hero Fisher’s ‘I Let Love’ is a rare and powerful treat of rock and roll swagger and pointed observational songwriting. Her narrative lyricism is bolstered by her effortless feel for melodies and song progression. From the timbres of the toms and the smooth steely chorus-soaked guitars to Fisher’s own vocal line, every element forms a vibrant sonic fabric of unforgettable musical sentiment. It’s about rising above the banalities of quotidian life, escape through desire, and the reflective trappings of nostalgia. The accompanying video runs the gamut of emotions with a stellar performance by its donkey marionette star enjoying a day at the beach and the aquarium. ‘I Let Love’ reveals the tentacular nature of Hero’s songwriting powers, ever extending into new spaces and new ideas.

British-born, French-raised and London-based, Hero Fisher (yes, that’s her real name) is returning to release her sophomore LP Glue Moon. Hero’s career has so far seen her collaborate with Alison Mosshart and Boy George in the Mark Ronson-scored ballet Carbon Life, open for The Rolling Stones and Neil Young at Hyde Park, and get shortlisted for the 2014 Glastonbury Emerging Talent Prize. In 2015 she released her debut album, the critically-appraised Delivery which won her fans in The Horrors and Blur.

By turns a blistering rock and roller in the vein of Patti Smith and PJ Harvey, and an experimental folk storyteller à la Jeff Buckley, Hero Fisher resists easy generic categorisation with her protean and cinematic musical storytelling. Able to expertly strike a variety of different narrative poses, she is at once the spurned lover and the fired-up rabble rouser, predator and prey. With Glue Moon previous singles ‘Sylvie’ and ‘Push The Boat Out’, Hero’s lyrical imagination proved unique and bountiful. Anthemic latest single ‘I Let Love’ is the latest chapter in her development as an artist, and with fuller production and it She’ll reach many more milestones yet on her creative journey. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

We featured Hero Fisher back in July & are now really pleased to share her latest song 'I Let Love'. This is a refreshing and catchy track where her vocals are more energised, whilst the simpler musical backdrop allows her voice to shine through.


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

Lauran Hibberd - Hunny Is This What Adults Do?

Background - “Adulting” takes on a new meaning with Lauran Hibberd’s new song, “Hunny Is This What Adults Do.” Lauran’s outside perspective distances herself from friends and peers who are starting families left and right, “dropping like flies.” It’s easy to compare oneself to others in our work, relationships and milestones in life. Lauran prioritizes her musical milestones including performances at Bestival 2017 and earning the support from Clash for her previous track “Eliza.”

In the style of Ingrid Michaelson and A Fine Frenzy, Lauran’s indie tune emphasizes the story of the song through her enchanting vocals. Thematically, it’s another fitting song for Lauran’s coming-of-age indie soundtrack imagined for the film, Juno, which follows the journey of teenage parents. The punctuated guitars and laid back tempo of the song feel like sleeping in on a rainy Sunday and happily spending the whole day indoors. That’s easy to do when you don’t have kids. Maybe around thirty she’ll think about doing what adults do, but until then Lauran will live by her own rules of adulthood.

Lauran says: “The track is coming of age, I think it’s the conversation everyone has to themselves one day, the question ‘am I an adult yet’? This song explores youth, and not wanting to leave it. But realising you don’t have to. It’s fun, brutally honest, and full of teenage fears. If you happen to be at the Isle Of Wight on the 16th December, you can catch Lauran Live at the Strings Bar and Venue. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

It's third time this year for Lauran Hibberd on Beehive Candy and once again the Isle Of Wight based artist continues to impress us in a big way, this time with 'Hunny Is This What Adults Do?' Her upbeat vocals almost dance above the soundtrack and as we have stated twice before this is a "fabulous, vibrant and lovable song"... 

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

KYLYPSO - Nights.

Background - Nights is an old KYLYPSO song (one of the very first) that’s finally getting a studio airing. Inspired by the sounds they got out of a freshly purchased 90’s synthesiser, it’s a song about what could have been, set in the daydreams of a person who could have been a lover once but who chose another. Its nocturnal dance grooves lend it a late night show-stopping vibe, and it’s often the song they finish their live sets with, complete with a reverb heavy synth wig-out.

KYLYPSO’s debut EP Soon Fun is a celebration of the fact that we can usually find good in a bad situation. It’s a work that expresses lyrical vulnerability and doubt, in relationships and in ourselves, but through the sheer joy of the music and melodies it carries the life-affirming sentiment that the good times are just around the corner. Its slick production, unpretentious execution, and relatable human outpourings make it the kind of EP that speaks to a part of everyone’s experience: the tragedy and the fun of finding ourselves.

With their name inspired by a boat, KYLYPSO are an East London three-piece whose luxurious technicolour psych pop pierces through the dour gloom of autumn with its quirky and vibrant style. It’s the sound of an everlasting summer of hope and heartbreak. The teenage tennis playing lovechild of Tame Impala and Caribou, it’s airy, funky stuff, birthed from their hearts, minds and hard drives in various studios around London. Deceptively simple (it’s easy to listen to, but hard to make), KYLYPSO’s sound is vital and rooted in the deep exploration and cosmic wonder of music. FACEBOOK.

Back in May we featured 'Blame Love' stating then that the song "suggests Kylypso have a considerable amount to offer." Fast forward to the bands 'Soon Fun' EP and we can share the track 'Nights', a smooth flowing indie electronic affair with quite personal vocals and a hook laden melodic vibe.

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

Bartees & The Strange Fruit - Going Going Ft. Rachael Balcanoff.

Background - “This song is about growing up in and eventually leaving Oklahoma, and looking back on people in the Black community who taught me key lessons on resilience and faith, and to not be afraid of who might be knocking on the door. The opening verse highlights some of those competing feelings of fear, hopelessness, and defiance, feelings Black people in the South understand very well.

I eventually left Oklahoma and struggled over the years, as I tried to forget about that place. It’s only now that I’m realizing that the lessons I learned there are what make me different. A lot of people who leave home to try new things probably feel this way, too. This song is for them.” — Bartees Cox

Bartees Cox, a songwriter and guitarist based out of Brooklyn, created Bartees & The Strange Fruit as a conduit to surface stories about people of color. The title of the debut album, Magic Boy, (out on December 8, 2017 via Pineapple Record Co.) is inspired by a lyric from the song “Hear My Train A Comin” that goes: “Well, I gotta leave this town, gonna be a Voodoo chile .. and try to be a magic boy.” 

This particular lyric has always resonated with Bartees since he made the decision to leave his home in rural Oklahoma for the East Coast, a change that is looked back on as being a pivotal moment in his life. This record marks Bartees’ obsession with analog recording, tape machines, space echoes, reel-to-reels and a number of other types of hi-fi recording gear. Each song was recorded to tape, or at least mixed to tape, to give it the warmth of a real performance.

“The “Magic Boy” is how my family sees me,” says Bartees. “Their kid that has made it work in New York, chasing a dream.” WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

'Going Going' is a multi-layered song where the vocals and musical elements swirl around and intermingle with each other. It contrasts well with the other tracks on the album which are in some cases far more stripped back and reliant on Bartees vocal power and acoustic guitar playing. Always present is a simmering emotional feeling, where every note played and word sung, is fully committed.

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

Wild Child - Think It Over / Expectations.

Background -  Austin-based band Wild Child have their fourth full-length, Expectations, due out in February 2018 on Dualtone. 

They have just released two singles, "Think It Over" and "Expectations," - a couple of shimmering indie-pop tunes that echo Jenny Lewis' solo work and when she fronted Rilo Kiley. Canadian music fans might hear Feist or the underrated Jenn Grant in there too.

They collaborated with an all-star cast of producer/musicians on this record, including Chris Walla (formerly Death Cab For Cutie), Matthew Logan Vasquez (Delta Spirit), Chris Boosahda (Shakey Graves), and Scott McMicken (Dr. Dog), and recorded in Norway, Philadelphia, and Texas. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

'Think It Over' is a catchy song where melodic vocals and harmonies are backed up by a lively and equally catchy musical arrangement. 'Expectations' steadies the pace with the bass up in the mix, until the song burst into power and energy levels rise. Indie pop with plenty of rock.

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

Sarah Schonert - Steve Buscemi's Dreamy Eyes - The Little Kicks - Half Forward Line

Sarah Schonert - Astound Me.

Background - The full-length release entitled "Penguin Party" from Illinois-based indie singer/songwriter Sarah Schonert will be released on 8th December. 

Her experimental approach should appeal to fans of innovators like Kate Bush and Imogen Heap. Sarah writes and records out of her home studio.

Sarah combines classical-sounding piano with ambient washes, vocoded synths, electronic elements, and layered vocals, and she is not afraid to experiment with vintage instruments as well as new technology to create her sound.

"For "Penguin Party," I chose to stick to the keyboards and loopers to focus on creative a more energetic album that people would want to move to. It also gave me a chance to experiment with some new ideas, such as using vocoder to make a drum track drive a bassline, looping live, and extravagant piano ornaments." WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

I have only heard a couple of tracks from the forthcoming album including the featured song 'Astound Me'. I have to say, I am more than just a little keen on hearing the rest. Sarah's vocals bear some resemblance to one of the above mentioned artists, particularly in her phrasing and delivery. That said this one song is a delicious mixture of musical ideas that are carefully crafted together with plenty of individual uniqueness.

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

Steve Buscemi's Dreamy Eyes - Four Waters (EP).

Background - Swedish indie/dream pop quartet Steve Buscemi’s Dreamy Eyes have just released their phenomenal debut EP 'Four Waters'. A delectable four track release including acclaimed single 'Swim Deep' - the band are also today announcing their debut London show - headlining The Sebright Arms on February 3rd next year.

Four Waters’ — the band’s debut EP is a hugely striking and diverse 4-track release, one that’s set to propel the band to even greater heights. "Four Waters is about not being enough” the band explain. "The frustration of not being able to do more, or doing something you thought would be the right thing but turned out not to be. Questioning your purpose and meaning and trying to be secure with who you are. It’s about helping each other out when one of you can’t manage and about finding your own ways of dealing with things. Following your intuition and doing what you feel is the right thing to do."

When we think of the songs on the EP we imagine ourselves standing by a dark lake somewhere deep in a forest in Sweden. We see the four songs as different types of water. Still, stormy, deep and obscure. Four different songs with the same wavy sound and feeling. It’s all about water and feeling blue.”

Prior to forming via Twitter, all 4 members of Steve Buscemi’s Dream Eyes had been operating in different small Stockholm bands. It was in the summer of 2015 that Tilde Hansen (bass, vocals) tweeted out a request for fellow musicians to start a new band. A couple of months later, Steve Buscemi’s Dreamy Eyes were formed. FACEBOOK.

We featured the track 'Swim Deep' earlier this month and now we get to share the full EP 'Four Waters'. This is an impressive collection of indie/dream pop, with the band delving into differing directions and styles. One consistent aspect is the melodic hooks, they are everywhere!


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

The Little Kicks - Bang the Drum Slowly.

Background - Aberdeen’s The Little Kicks return with their immensely uplifting new single, Bang The Drum Slowly, out 1st December 2017 via Loosen Up Records.

Bang The Drum Slowly is a mightily infectious slice of off-kilter indie pop. It races through with scuzzy hooks, glitchy beats and sweeping harmonies, resulting in a delightfully quirky sound akin to the likes of Hot Hot Heat or OK Go. It's the fourth single to be taken from their latest album, Shake Off Your Troubles. Describing the album, lead singer Steven Milne explains “the themes of the record would be a feeling of happiness, gratitude and to be thankful with what you have and not take things for granted. Furthermore, not to let others get you down or let anyone put you in your place.”

Since forming five years ago, The Little Kicks have received critical acclaim from the likes of NME, Q, Clash and The Skinny to name but a few. They have also received support from BBC 6 Music, BBC Radio 1, Radio Scotland and XFM as well as Shake Off Your Troubles being nominated for the Scottish Album of the Year Award. Now, having shared stages with acclaimed bands such as The Maccabees, Maximo Park and White Lies, The Little Kicks hope to continue charming listeners further with the unique, vibrant sounds of Bang The Drum Slowly. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

You can catch The Little Kicks live at the following dates:

December 8th 2017 - Mad Hatters, Inverness
December 14th 2017 - Clarks, Dundee
December 23rd 2017 - The Tunnels, Aberdeen
January 12th 2017 - King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow.

'Bang The Drum Slowly' is an infectious indie pop/rock song that is both vibrant and extremely catchy. Upbeat in nature the bands delivery is high quality and confident, whilst they write and perform material this good, that is hardly surprising.

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

Half Forward Line - For Centuries.

Background - Half Forward Line debut first single "Hey, Can I Try on Your Glasses" from their debut album The Back of Mass.

Half Forward Line is the new band from Brian Kelly (So Cow), Niall Murphy (Oh Boland) and drummer/recordist Ciaran o Maoláin. The trio have crafted a short sharp dose of power pop, recorded over two days in the lounge of a derelict rural Irish pub. "The Back Of Mass" takes in tales of wedded bliss, social anxiety and the perils of letting someone try on your glasses. Infused with the pioneering jangling spirit of the Flying Nun roster, along with garage rock sonics and Kelly's inimitable brand of buzzsaw pop and slice-of-life lyrics, Half Forward Line have delivered a half-hour album hallmarked by hook-laden songs.

The back of mass is the rear of the church, near the doors, home of the last people to come in and the first people to leave. There's the whispered running commentary on the ceremony. There is the shifting of weight from foot to foot, counting down the minutes. People who would probably rather not be there, but would rather the insurance when their final day comes. 

Half Forward Line will be releasing their album on cassette on Rusted Rail of Galway, with the CD version on Jigsaw Records of Seattle. FACEBOOK.

'For Centuries' cuts to the chase in an energised musical manner, with the vocals adding some melody above a feisty guitar driven musical soundtrack. Power pop with a pleasing and healthy element of natural rock & roll.

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

Nocturnal Animals - Paul Mosley and The Red Meat Orchestra - October's Child - ORFILA

Nocturnal Animals - Dark Lit Places.

Background - Atlanta alternative/indie rock group Nocturnal Animals new EP is entitled "Dark Lit Places."

Nocturnal Animals is an American Alternative band from Atlanta, GA. The group consists of Mason Jones, Will Bennett, Derrick Stephen, and Dawson Tucker. Formerly known as "Rude!", Nocturnal Animals revamped themselves and have caught attention with their brand new debut EP of the name "Dark Lit Places".

"This band is very talented and promising. The vocals are charismatic and relateable, reminding me of the Arctic Monkeys with a dash of Billie Joe from Green Day. The production is stellar, as is the songwriting. This really makes alternative rock sound big and relevant again. Just beautiful arrangements and a unique dynamic/mixture of rock styles."

The band are - Mason Jones: Vocals and Rhythm Guitar, Will Bennett: Lead Guitar, Dawson Tucker: Bass, Derrick Stephen: Drums, FACEBOOK.

The new EP 'Dark Lit Places' comprises of four tracks which test the spectrum of indie & alt rock. A mixture of feisty rock & roll alongside less intense melodic moments ensures variety is a key ingredient of this fine EP.


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

Paul Mosley and The Red Meat Orchestra - Wintersun.

Background - The beautiful new single ‘Wintersun’ by Paul Mosley & the Red Meat Orchestra comes in light of the release of their ghostly new EP ‘Wintertide’ due 1st December. 'Wintertide.'

The epic title track updates the classic English Folk Carol 'I Saw Three Ships'... casting Red Meat Orchestra regulars Jack Harris, Esther Dee and Josienne Clarke as the three ships’ captains, stranded when the wintertide freezes, trapping their ships in the ice.

'Wintersun' -  described by Mosley as 'An exercise in smart-arse time signatures' but in fact a tale of the unkindness of unrequited love. The warm acoustics, layered harmonies and sky scraping saxophone bring to mind West Coast Americana and hazy, dreamy 70's folk pop. 

Having received astounding praise from press such as The Quietus, Q Magazine and R2 in the past, Paul Mosely has a reputation for turning heads and this new single is going to be no different. WEBSITE.

'Wintersun' has a timeless folk feel to it. Gently melodic the vocals and harmonies are natural and pleasing. The music gradually develops into a beautiful arrangement, it's a clever tease for the EP.

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

October's Child - Orion.

Background - Songstress Britt Warner and producer Jordan Waré are October's Child. Britt and Jordan are both October babies, though they're opposites—she's a self-proclaimed "death-obsessed" lady, growing up in Los Angeles she used to write songs to help soothe her anxiety about mortality. 

On the other hand, Waré thinks of himself as an in the moment type of person, borrowing his musical sensibilities from something a bit more silent: meditation. What an interesting mix, right? Their debut album "As You Go" is coming up, but while we're waiting for this release you can check out their first single, "Orion".

Orion is a haunting yet upbeat track featuring Warner’s angelic range soaring over a seamless blend of orchestral and electronic. The instrumental framework for this leading single was written following Britt’s father’s death, and is wrapped up in the absence she felt during “his” holiday, Thanksgiving. 

"The lyrics wrote themselves", says Warner, "I'd fallen for someone who, due to life's circumstances, was unattainable, but there was this undeniable, torturous mutual spark. Orion is that person you click with immediately but are forever after left to wonder what might have been, if only…” FACEBOOK.

Britt Warner's gorgeous vocals are accompanied by a thoughtful and sensitive musical setting on 'Orion' a lush and soothing song. Jordan Waré's attention to detail ensures everything comes together with considerable beauty.

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

ORFILA - Snow, Rain and A Hurricane.

Background - “Build With A Dreamer’s Hand” is the upcoming EP by sibling country music trio ORFILA to celebrate their five year anniversary. An anniversary that has allowed the trio to nostalgically reminisce about how far they have come together as a band, and grown together in that time. 

As they release what is without doubt their strongest material to date, the trio can proudly recall performing alongside a diverse collection of artists including Alvin Stardust, Dodgy, Beverley Craven, 911 and the legendary Albert Hammond.

"The EP is definitely a reflection of where we are as a band at this moment in time. When we recorded our second album we felt that we had found our sound and we wanted to continue down this route for this EP. 

We all contributed to the writing process and we had a small band behind us who we had worked with before and who were friends of ours which made it such a fun, laid back experience. The three tracks are three of the strongest tracks we have ever written and we hope people enjoy listening to them as much as we enjoyed making them." WEBSITE.

'Snow, Rain and A Hurricane' is an energised country song, where the vocals and musical arrangement compete for attention and both easily win through, in this upbeat affair. 


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

The Bats - AyOwA - Skelhorn

The Bats - Busy.

Background - New Zealand indie-pop legends The Bats started the year off by releasing their ninth album, The Deep Set, and now they finish it with a new video.

Directed by Marc Swadel it sees the four-piece performing the track 'Busy' (off The Deep Set) in Christchurch Emigre, James Atkinson's, practice room under the arches of London's Haggerston Station. 

Filmed the day before their final show in the Tufnel Dome, the onscreen triptych also features footage from around London during the band's UK/EU summer tour earlier this year.

"Marc Swadel has done an amazing job of editing together band footage with some “busy” film of London's underground and overground using a wide triptych format" - Paul Kean, The Bats. BANDCAMP, WEBSITE.

It was back in February of this year that we first featured The Bats. The band end 2017 with a new video for 'Busy', another refined song from the album 'The Deep Set' where indie pop and rock are presented with class.


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

AyOwA - Insomnia.

Background - The new single has just been released on Music For Dreams. Awake in the night, the Danish duo AyOwA go searching their sub conscious to the haunting lyrics of Danish writer Mette Moestrup.  “Insomnia” is the first single from their forthcoming EP “Farvel”, to be released in May 2018 on Copenhagen label Music For Dreams. Based on their trademark electronic approach, but this time with many acoustic elements, the duo goes exploring new sides of their nordic, dark and moving electronic songs.

Sung in Danish, but with a certain universal and dreaming approach,  AyOwA combines noise pop with electronica and melodies with improvisation, in an evocative and playful mix.

AyOwA has had a busy year, playing big festivals like Spot and Roskilde.The duo has been featured on BBC 1, Radio X and Apple Music Beats 1, as well as P3 and P6 in Denmark. They were also chosen as one of five bands of significance in 2017 by nordic blog and showcase JA JA JA.  AyOwA has been featured on Wonderland Magazine, Line of Best Fit, The Clash, Noisey, Vice, The Independent (UK) and Huffington Post (US), and marks the very rare occasion of a band singing in Danish, featured outside the country. FACEBOOK.

Our fourth feature for AyOwA this time with 'Insomnia' a gorgeous song sung in the duo's native language. Whatever might be lost in translation, the atmosphere, passion and beautiful music makes up for. In fact for non Danish speakers it adds another layer of fascination.

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

Skelhorn - A Wondrous Place Of Our Own.

Background - Skelhorn debut single is 'A Wondrous Place of Our Own'. The song boasts meaningful lyrics, masterful musicianship and polished production techniques to create a record with a unique atmosphere.

Skelhorn makes music to reflect old and new, fusing his acoustic roots with electronica and wonderfully authentic vocals. Tarantino meets Morricone, with a dusting of Twin Peaks and a shot of Rock’n’Roll Quickly garnering support from key radio tastemakers through his strong catchy hooks and meaningful lyrics, the singer songwriter from Liverpool is generating a real buzz across his home city and beyond.

Skelhorn began his musical career at the age of fourteen, performing in clubs and pubs across the North West of England. He was quickly noticed by Radio Merseyside and Radio City and could regularly be heard and seen on live broadcasts and roadshows. Through this early radio support he was able to meet and perform with legendary songwriter Bill Dees (Pretty Woman) and Sonny Curtis (The Crickets).

Skelhorn has recorded, performed and toured with three bands prior to launching his solo career, gaining an enviable reputation and invaluable experience to stand him in good stead for the next chapter. FACEBOOK.

As debut singles go 'A Wondrous Place Of Our Own' has confidence and character to say the very least. Melodic and with lush layers of melodic music the vocals are definitely what give the song that special dimension.


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

Esther & Fatou - Typhoon - Death of Guitar Pop

Esther & Fatou - At Night.

Background - At Night is the brilliant debut single from Esther & Fatou, a folky dream-pop tune perfect for the winter months. Hailing from Leuven, Belgium, the co-vocalists by equal turns charm and invigorate on a track that belies their lack of previous releases in its confidence. Warm, pin-point harmonies are accompanied by a snowy flurry of rootsy instrumentation, delivered in such a way as to retain a modern feel.  

“It’s a song about the way everything is seen in a different light at night”, E&F explain, “the track was inspired by a nighttime walk through the city, when we began to wonder about ourselves and other people. In a very organized society in which everyone is expected to make a distinct contribution, there comes the night: full of chaos, everyone is left with their thoughts, insecurities and secrets. The nighttime raises more questions about existence and faith. By morning; they all seem to disappear’"

Produced by Gaetan Vandewoude (of the beloved Belgian indie-band Isbells) and mixed by Luke Smith (Foals, Anna Of The North, Slow Club) it’s the perfect introduction to Esther & Fatou’s wonderful world of dreamy Americana, combining the joyful and gloomy over 3-and-a-half blissful minutes. At Night by Esther & Fatou is out now via [PIAS] Belgium. FACEBOOK.

Esther & Fatou have merged together natural folk sensibilities with dream pop and the resulting song 'At Night' is a lush and beautiful song. The vocals and harmonies are gorgeous and are supported by some imaginatively crafted expansive and warm music.

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

Typhoon -  'Floodplains: Wake / Rorschach / Empiricist / Algernon'.

Background - Typhoon have announced their new album "Offerings" which will be released January 12th via Roll Call Records. If a Fellini film, a Bosch painting, and a Rorschach drawing had a collective sound, it would be Typhoon's new release. The 14-track record Offerings is a musical and lyrical excursion into surreal imagery, eerie soundscapes, and an emotionally jarring narrative.

The 70-minute album for Roll Call Records, which is the Portland, Oregon indie rock band's fourth studio album, centres on a fictional man who is losing his memory, and in turn, his sense of self. "I've always been preoccupied with memory, losing memory, and trying to recapture memory. I wanted to explore the questions: What does a person become if they don't know where they came from? What is the essential quality of the person if you strip away all memory?" explains singer/songwriter Kyle Morton.

Motivated in part by his own preoccupation with "losing it," Morton also found a treasure trove of inspiration through various books, art, and film he was immersed in during the writing of this record. "I was watching a lot of David Lynch, and thought a lot about the Christopher Nolan movie, Memento, and Fellini's 8 ½. And there were a lot of books on my nightstand that played into this. It made it a much darker album for sure," he says.

"Offerings" is divided into four movements (Floodplains, Flood, Reckoning, and Afterparty) to represent the mental phases the main character goes through where he first realises that something is wrong, then struggles through the chaos of his situation, and finally moves into acceptance before succumbing to his dreadful fate. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

The band have also announced a run of UK tour dates for 2018.

28th Feb 2018 The Deaf Institute, Manchester, UK
3rd March 2018 Broadcast, Glasgow, UK
2nd March 2018 The Lexington, London, UK.

The first movement from Typhoon's forthcoming album (Offerings) is 'Floodplains' which comprises of  'Wake / Rorschach / Empiricist / Algernon'. Crammed with creativity these four songs are a generous taste of January's album setting expectations very high. The bands core genre might be indie rock, clearly however that does not anchor them and the imaginative ideas are present both lyrically and with the musical directions they take.


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

Death of Guitar Pop - 69 Candy Street.

Background - Essex-based Death of Guitar Pop released their debut album ’69 Candy Street’ earlier this month, and will make their live debut as a 9-piece ska band (taking place at Oslo, Hackney on Friday 1st December).

Death Of Guitar Pop have been sparking huge interest from over recent months, with The Orginal Rudeboy Neville Staple (The Specials) collaborating on their last single ’Suburban Ska Pop', the Bad Manners horn section (aka The Mafia) throwing their hat into the ring to play on the album (and will play as part of the Death Of Guitar Pop live band playing at Oslo on December 1st). and w

With the likes of Pauline Black (The Selecter) and Dave Wakeling (The Beat) give the lads big props on social media. FACEBOOK.

We featured and thoroughly enjoyed the collaboration with Neville Staple in the form of 'Suburban Ska Pop' and with the album just released we have the title track to enjoy now, '69 Candy Street'. It looks likely that those going to the live debut as a nine piece band are gonna have some fun, for the rest of us we have at the least one more tune to leap about to!

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

Verge Collection - Lesley Barth - Folia

Verge Collection - So Vain.

Background - Off the back of a buzzing sold out national tour for first single 'For The Story', Verge Collection announce their latest tune 'So Vain', from their highly anticipated debut LP 'Flanuer' (out March 30).  

The brand new follow up single - which premiered on triple j's Home & Hosed with Dom Alessio on Monday and online with Pilerats yesterday - is a two minute banger that see's the  Perth indie-pop natives flip the bird to judgmental folks. Drawing on an awkward party experience, songwriter and band front-man Ben Arnold finds humour in a petty argument with a pretentious party-goer where he claims he "was getting razzed by someone that had a superiority complex." 'So Vain' acts as a helping hand, urging the listener to move towards something bigger; something greater than the predictable sameness of current life.

With a presence that's cemented itself wholly in the suburban Australian whirlpool, Verge Collection's debut album is set to sink deep into the bones of every listener. Flaneur represents the band's mature side, where self-reflective tendencies and the art of letting go of negativity are personified in the complex lyricism highlighted on tracks like 'Stop Think About It' and 'Sleep It Off'. The debut album soars to new heights showcasing catchy hooks and heavy bass lines that provoke a nostalgic yearning for simplicity and unfiltered youth. The album's 10 track's document goose-bump worthy reflections ('Feelin' Old'), knowing when it's time to say goodbye ('Last Ciggie') and finding light in dark situations ('Black Dog'). With the same production team behind their 2016 triple j mini hit 'Our Place', the album is set for release on deluxe 12" vinyl via Rhubarb Records on Friday 30 March. 

Since their inception, Verge Collection's list of successes brims with achievements. Nominations for four WA Music Awards (WAMi's) resulted in the crown for "Best EP" ('Open Plan Living') in 2016 following their set as one of the most talked about acts at Bigsound. Earlier this year, the band signed with Rhubarb Records following a wicked sold out national tour in August and the release of Flaneur's first single 'For The Story'. With a back catalogue of tours supporting the likes of Skeggs, Stonefield, The Wombats, Cold War Kids, Bad Dreems, Bleeding Knees Club, Tiny Little Houses, Good Boy, City Calm Down and Saskwatch, Verge Collection will reveal national album tour dates in early 2018. 

Verge Collection's single 'So Vain' is out now. Flaneur is out physically on Friday 30 March via Rhubarb Records and digitally via Believe Distribution. BANDCAMP, FACEBOOK.

'So Vain' is a vibrant indie pop song that mixes melodic vocals and a feisty musical arrangement, and at just under two minutes every second appears to be crammed full of musical goodness.

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

Lesley Barth - Song Without a Name.

Background - After performing around top NYC singer/songwriter venues for a few years and capturing audiences with her strong voice and compelling lyrics, Lesley Barth released her debut EP, “Good Like This,” as a surprise to her supporters on her 28th birthday in summer of 2015, quickly building a loyal and devoted fanbase off of its warm reception.  

Only several months later, in partnership with OvationTV and Rockethub as part of their first “Creative Studio” of artists, she was able to crowdfund her first full-length album from the growing number of supporters who were hungry for more from Barth.

Her crowdfunded album “Green Hearts,” released earlier in 2017, was made at Brooklyn’s Mission Sound, where Barth recorded her debut EP in 2014.  Elements from disco, folk, country, blues, and retro pop have been woven together by themes of longing, soul-searching, and young love in her first full-length album.

Lesley has this to say about her brand new music video - If you think I wouldn't make a music video using my old kitchen's teal walls as a green screen and free stock footage, You Were Wrong! WEBSITE.  

We featured Lesley Barth back in January and were rather impressed with her then new album. 'Song Without A Name' now in music video form is to good not to show and it looks like some new material will be on it's way early next year.


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

Folia - Heart Beat.

Background - Folia are an alt-pop duo out of Melbourne serving up ambient, dreamy sounds and raw, honest vocals.

After forming in late 2016, the pair released their debut single Without You in August 2017 to positive reviews, drawing comparisons to UK trio London Grammar. Heart Beat is the second release from the duo and was both self-written and self-produced by the band at Ginger Recording studios in Melbourne with help from studio owner and audio-engineer Jimi Wyatt. The song depicts the pain, confusion and devastation that comes from unexpectedly losing a loved one and transcends from deep, hollow vocals to ambient harmonies and progressive riffs.

“Though fortunately neither of us have lost a significant loved one, Heart Beat is our own perception of the agony and frustration that would ensue following the loss of a loved one, encompassed with the fear of this happening and not having the chance to say goodbye”.  ‘Heart Beat’ is in Digital Stores now. FACEBOOK.

A distant atmospheric start soon evolves into an impressive alt pop song with 'Heart Beat'. The vocals are emotionally gorgeous and the musical arrangement builds in layers adding warmth along the way.

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

Traveller - Mitch Bullen - Healyum - Death By Unga Bunga - Have You Ever Seen The Jane Fonda Aerobic VHS? - The Green Door

Traveller - Been Waiting.

Background -  Traveller are a band on the ascendant. Their latest single 'Been Waiting' follows the success of their debut EP 'All This Time' and with headline shows at legendary venues such as King Tuts Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow, the band are one of the UK's most exciting new musical prospects.

The Scottish based Rock band are Gerry Sheridan on lead vocals, guitar and piano, Martin Yves on lead guitar and backing vocals, Brian Socha on bass and Simon Usher on drums, backing vocals and piano. With airplay earned in over seventy countries and counting, Traveller are winning fans all over the world with their polished and melodic Rock.

Founder member Simon Usher, says "There wasn’t much music in my house when I was growing up. My mum and dad weren’t very musical but there was an old upright piano upstairs on the landing of our house which I would mess about with and there were a few records stacked on a shelf in the sitting room that I would dig out and play repeatedly on their old record player, the best of which were by The Dutch Swing Band and Trini Lopez! I remember discovering ABBA and being fixated by the tight harmonies in many of their songs. I guess they were the first ever band for me that I really connected with because of that, but my first ever album on cassette tape was a pivotal experience for me. It was 'Tunnel of Love' by Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band. I used to shut myself away for hours on end in my bedroom listening to those tracks on repeat reflecting myself within the music and lyrics and focusing on what I hoped would be my musical destiny. Bruce Springsteen’s amazing soul and passion for music is what I am truly drawn towards.

For Simon, his musical journey began when he moved to Yorkshire to study Jazz at The Leeds College of Music. Following garduation and a return to Scotland he founded a music agency called The Gig Supply placing bands into venues all over Scotland. The agency gained a good reputation and won a regional business award for innovation as well as gaining lots of respect from bands and venues across Scotland. It was at this time that Simon first met Brian, Traveller's bass player. As members of a band called Suburbia they were signed to a small independent record label called City of Angels and we wrote and rehearsed daily in an old farm shed in the Scottish borders. Chosen to become the house band for a 'Hype', a BBC Choice TV show, they travelled down to London each week to appear live, performing a new song and playing a couple of covers on each episode. Tony Visconte, after appearing as a guest, was so impressed with the band that invited them to New York to spend a day with him in his studio. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

We featured 'All This Time' back towards the beginning of the year and the latest single 'Been Waiting' is another fine natural rocker worthy of a share. Traveller mix tightly delivered alt rock, with plenty of hooks and are carving out their own sound & it's a very good one at that.

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

Mitch Bullen - Time Has Gone.

Background From Mitch - Growing up in Melbourne was the beginning of my passion for music, living in such a vibrant and creative city gave me cause to create everyday.  Having relocated to London in early 2016 I have enjoyed taking inspiration from my travels as well as growing in a new and unfamiliar environment. 

Naturally, being an aspiring musician I spend most of my time working as a barista, which (somewhat) funds my ability to explore this city and draw creativity from everyday life.

My songs are inspired by life, time and relationships, acoustically performed with contrasting vocals accompanied with a literal lyrical style and simple, guitar-driven melodies. 

Drawing inspiration from a range of different eras from a variety of artists such as Ray Charles, Matt Corby, Passenger, Bon Iver and many, many others. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

Second time around on Beehive Candy for Mitch Bullen in a matter of weeks. 'Time Has Gone' starts out as a gentle, well crafted folk song, and gradually builds into a powerful and emotionally charged piece. Mitch can sing softly and melodically, he can also belt out some feisty rock vocals, this song demonstrates both ends of the scale.

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

Healyum - Cheap Alcohol.

Background - Newcomers Healyum have delivered on early promise with new single ‘Cheap Alcohol’.  Previous singles ‘Lies’, ‘Three Months’ and ‘Fools Eyes’ have been supported by Huw Stephens on BBC Radio 1, BBC Introducing, and Radio X (where all three have appeared on the evening playlist).  Glowing reviews have come from the likes of The Line Of Best Fit, Dork & The Metro, the band’s music has also found it’s way onto various BBC Drama & Channel 4 TV shows, and they won the ‘Breakout Artist Award’ at the NMG Awards last month.

The band’s BBC Introducing support led to them being filmed live in-session back in June and performing at this years Standon Calling Festival.  They recently played a show with Circa Waves, and are set to play alongside fellow Bedford-boy Tom Grennan and Will Jospeh Cook in the up coming weeks as well as as a show at Sebright Arms for Abbie McCarthy’s ‘Good Karma Club’.

Still only 17, singer-songwriter Jeaná Healy explains that if she threw a part ‘Cheap Alcohol’ would be the soundtrack.  Again produced and mixed by band collaborator Kristofer Harris (Belle & Sebastian, Ghostpoet, Clock Opera), ‘Cheap Alcohol’ sees interest in Jeaná and her bandmates continue to build. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK. 

Live Dates: 30 Nov – Sebright Arms, London w/ Abbie McCarthy’s Good Karma Club.

With distinct and gorgeous vocals and a superb musical arrangement 'Cheap Alcohol' helps make sense of the attention Healyum are attracting in the UK. Vibrant modern pop that is loaded with hooks throughout.

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

Death By Unga Bunga - Into The Night.

Background - Death by Unga Bunga have premiered their manic new video for 'Into The Night'. Death By Unga Bunga drummer Ole Steinar Nesset has said:
 
"This video is a delightful mashup of everything that’s cool. ‘Into The Night’ is about how to party. We like to party on jet fighters, playing guitar solos, clinging on for our lives to a flying carpet. Wouldn’t you?"

The band have just come off a massive US tour with Stiff Little Fingers and are now set to play two shows back in Norway this December. Details of these are available here. The 'Bye-Bye/Into The Night' 7-inch is out now on Jansen Records. Order it on vinyl here and digitally here. More details on the new album out early 2018 to be announced soon. FACEBOOK.

'Into The Night' is a rhythmic catchy rocker, with just a little attitude. Add in the crazy video and every ones a winner!


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

Have You Ever Seen The Jane Fonda Aerobic VHS? - Magic Swimming Pants.

Background - Finnish 3-piece Have You Ever Seen The Jane Fonda Aerobic VHS? are set to release their second album Jazbelle 1984/1988 on January 19th. Across the course of 11 ‘flower-garage’ tunes, each catchier and more chaotic than the last, HYESTJFAVHS? establish themselves as one of the most exciting and infectious bands to come out of Scandinavia in recent years.

The trio have carved out a unique sound for themselves, opting to use keyboards instead of guitars. This is after songwriter Ekku Lintunen and drummer Janne-Petteri Pitkälä, on seeing the film Drive, instantly decided to form an 80s synth-pop band as a side project to the garage-rock act they were in at the time. When Susse Stemma-Sihvola came in on vocals, bringing her scuzzed out bass tones with her, it ended up being garage-rock with a twist.

They are further shaped by the aesthetic and sonics of the underground cassette culture punk bands in their small town of Kouvola rely on, as well as the thread of styles that have tied the town’s musical history together through the decades. A mish-mash of 60s girl-groups, punk, glam, grunge and NYC/Manchester indie coming together to generate their electrifying style.

Throughout, the album is two-tone. At times playful, and pop-centric, at others darker, more intense. Across the 11 tracks presented HYESTJFAVHS? make whimsical references to He-Man, and Modern Family’s Phil Dunphy as well as including a track titled Hanky Panky. However, there’s also a sadder element – it’s a semi-breakup album, half the tracks written pre- and post-. Hence, there are explorations of both the excitement and disappointment of love. FACEBOOK.

'Magic Swimming Pants' is the first of eleven tracks on the bands second album (Jazbelle 1984/1988) due out in January 2018. This is a high octane collection of music, the band are energetic throughout, mixing up some fabulous pop to punk or glam to grunge styles, with catchy upbeat and potent material every time.


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

The Green Door - You Won't Hear That Anymore.

Background - San Francisco psychedelic rock/garage rock band The Green Door have a new EP on the way entitled "Wolf In The Fold". The new release explores themes of life and death as well as hero and anti-hero, using both mythical and historical figures of the old west. These themes are loosely interpreted and recycled so that they look back at this era as an American myth through the tumultuous lens of present day American society. All of this occurs with the sonic aesthetic of spaghetti westerns, 60s psychedelia and garage rock.

Formed in San Francisco in 2008, The Green Door is comprised of Mike Carnahan on lead vocals and guitar, Reese Abell on bass, Evan Wardell on guitar, Vanessa Wolter on percussion, and Devin Triplett on electric organ. The Green Door started as a project between Wolter and Carnahan, as they began writing and recording a series of songs blending the raw, desert sounds reminiscent of Spaghetti Westerns with the uncompromising rhythms of 1960s garage and acid rock. The result is a harmonic force of American myth and counter-culture ideology, best described as "Western psychedelic rock." Imagine wild 1960s rock 'n' roll driving through the desert to meet the analog spirits of psychedelia.

With the recording of a new album, the sound of The Green Door continues to evolve. However, the approach remains the same. The name "The Green Door" stands as an image which beckons the observer to question what's behind and, ultimately, beyond. The music of The Green Door, with its wild and evocative themes of the mythic West juxtaposed with formidable riffs and stampeding rhythms, is an experience that calls the listener to strike out to the badlands, set up camp, and rock out with the ghosts that linger there in the reverb of a bygone age. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

Psych vocals and glorious rock harmonies are just part of  'You Won't Hear That Anymore'. You can add in some bluesy riffs and atmospheric refrains and still there is more. This is one very addictive song.

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

Shelley Segal - VHS Collection - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

Shelley Segal - Somebody Like You.

Background - LA-based, Australian songwriter Shelley Segal has announced her latest single Somebody Like You, a rock-infused, in-your-face song about a relationship interrupted.

Somebody Like You is a heavy track, and not just in sound; it details the trauma of being told by family that your relationship must end for the sake of religion – in short, it’s the perfect song to release in the midst of the polarising and supremely topical same sex marriage debate. Electric guitars wail and drums propel the song forward with a strength that Shelley has harnessed herself, as the chorus soars to the heights of her vocal range. 

Somebody Like You soundtracks a confusing, difficult time in Shelley’s life, as she explains, “When I was 18 years old my family told me I needed to break up with my partner because he wasn't Jewish - in line with our religious traditions. I chose to fight for the relationship with my then-partner, leaving home and moving in with him and his family.

Shelley has been living and working in Los Angeles for over a year now, and is currently Stateside touring Somebody Like You. Since making the move overseas Shelley has achieved a lot; spending her time writing with different artists, performing non-stop, and opening her own publishing company which saw her score a sync with the Emmy-award winning web series Venice. 

Shelley loves her new city, but is looking forward to her brief visit home to celebrate Somebody Like You with a few shows. She enthuses, “These new songs have a rockier edge than I've had before and I'm excited to share that energy onstage. Coming home will be bittersweet as it makes me a bit homesick but it will be special to be at home and play these new songs to my fans and friends. As usual audiences can expect lots of stories. Maybe even a bit of the shiny sheen of shameless LA pop will make it back over the pacific with me, we'll see.” WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

The subdued musical arrangement contrasts beautifully with Shelley Segal's vocals as 'Somebody Like You' unfolds. The power is upped and a more forceful rock backdrop emerges, and as the vocals are immersed within, some additional edge is given to the song.

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

VHS Collection - Sign.

Background - VHS Collection share their latest single "Sign", which has been featured on Spotify's New Music Friday Playlist upon it's release. The band is currently gearing up the release their debut LP, which is due for release in 2018. Stay tuned for more new music and info coming soon.

VHS Collection is a rock band from New York City that has gained a reputation for high energy live performances and a unique blend of rock, electronic, and disco influences. 

VHS Collection’s songs have been streamed over 25 million times on Spotify and the band has seen festival performances at Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, Bunbury Festival, and Okeechobee Festival in the last year.  VHS also sold out a headline show at Bowery Ballroom in February and Music Hall of Williamsburg in June, as well as LA's Troubadour, in addition to sold out club dates throughout the mid-west and throughout the west coast.  The band has released two EP’s to date and will release its first full length record late this fall.   

VHS has remained independent and is self-managed. They they are able to reach a growing audience via Spotify and other social media outlets without a label, and have also built a live following by word of mouth.  The band sold out Bowery Ballroom and NYC’s 700 cap Music Hall of Williamsburg in the last 6 months and also played several major West Coast headline dates, including LA’s famous Troubadour. FACEBOOK.

Electronic vocal harmonies open up 'Sign', before the beats kick in. It's then a flowing mixture of refined vocals and a rhythmic backdrop, both elements creating atmosphere and melodic vibes.

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

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - King of Bones.

Background - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club are currently putting the finishing touches to their forthcoming eighth studio album, the follow-up to 2013's Specter At The Feast, entitled  Wrong Creatures which will be released on January 12th 2018.

The band have already treated fans to three instant grat tracks, first single “Little Thing Gone Wild”  a dirty, sexy, rollicking ride of big licks and heavy bass – which was the inspiration for the LP's title, drawing on a lyrical passage. “Lord you hear me loud into my soul speaker, why won’t you let me out, you’ve got the wrong creature’.  Next up came the Cave-esque murder balladry of “Haunt” , followed by ‘Question of Faith’. On 20th November the band made a fourth track available – ‘King Of Bones’.

BRMC - Robert Levon Been — Bass, Guitar, Piano, Vocals, Peter Hayes— Guitar, Bass, Harmonica, Vocals and Leah Shapiro — Drums, Backing Vocals, Percussion, started to formulate the album in the summer of 2015. Shapiro was six months clear of  life-saving brain surgery for Chiari Malformation, a rare disorder the restricts the flow of spinal fluid between the brain & spine . The trio had come off a tour and began sketching out new songs in their private lockout space appropriately nicknamed ‘The Bunker’ in North Hollywood. “It’s a crazy making machine, it can chew you up good, I mean we literally toured ‘till the wheels came off and Leah’s brain literally started leaking out of her head” says Been. “I know I’ve battled on and off with mental depression, and Pete’s head never came with any proper instructions.”

Nick Launay, famed for his work with Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Arcade Fire and most significantly here Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, came in to produce the album, and became a fundamental part of the BRMC machine, providing the band with a sounding board. “I find myself writing about death a lot,” says Hayes. “I find myself having a discussion with death, which sounds dark. For me, it's dark humor.”

Adds Been “We are truly an island – come hell or high water, so it’s usually best to dress accordingly. Though I’m not sure what the proper attire is when drowning in fire. But leather usually goes with everything.” WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

I know that Black Rebel Motorcycle Club are more than likely to be given plenty of attention elsewhere however 'King Of Bones' is just to good not to include on Beehive Candy. It's dark, moody and heavy rock & roll with all of the potency this band can deliver. With four songs already shared, I wonder just what else the band are holding back on.


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