A Couple Of Good Ones: Murder Shoes - Rissy

Murder Shoes - Nineteeneightyone.

Bio - Sometimes, it really does boil down to who you know. Shortly after Derek Van Gieson first moved to Minneapolis, he met fellow guitarist Chris White through an ex-post-hardcore-punk pal. For a year or so, Derek and Chris stockpiled hundreds of songs. The songs ran the gamut of 60s pop/garage nuggets, gothic folk, chaotic post-punk, 80s funk and R&B, country/western, shoegaze, rockabilly, and surf. 

It could have been a real hot mess, but Derek brought Tess Weinberg in to the picture and she tied the whole thing together with her sultry cross-genre vocals. They further refined their sound as a trio and just when they thought they had it figured out, bassist Tim Heinlein and drummer Elliot Manthey brought the volume, power, and muscle. Inside of a year as a quintet, Murder Shoes recorded and released three EPs, a full length album, and went on tour. After many adventures in the studio and live, the band has refined the eclectic nature of their sound, which can now accurately be described as “Murder Shoesy.”

On November 6, Land Ski Records will release “Daydreaming,” the full-length debut from Minneapolis, MN indie rock band, Murder Shoes.

The band at times remind me of Blondie circa their first album, however that's just part of the story. There is a harder edge to the guitar driven music and vocals are if anything smoother, the band drift from post punk into surf rock, and plenty of other places. As debut albums go this is a solid collection of songs, the band have done themselves proud.

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Rissy - Sunset Raining.

Background words - It took barely 10 minutes to write the words and vocal melody, but two years of massaging and marshalling the various creative forces to turn ‘Sunset Raining’, a new electronic-pop tune by seasoned newcomer Rissy, into a reality.

“I arrived at the studio, listened to the track just once... and started writing madly,” says Rissy of her first acquaintance with the catchy creation from the genius duo L D R U and Yahtzel.

“I wrote the whole song within 10 minutes and we recorded it shortly after,” says Rissy. “It was a very natural, very easy process.” Sunset Raining is about crazy, blissful love. "Get high up on your platform baby" meaning, shine like you should.

Rissy’s strong, upbeat voice flows like honey over Carmada’s spiky electronic backdrop, thoughtful sound sculpting that works a treat. That was 2013. So why the delay in releasing the song? “There were a few entanglements that we needed to undo, and a couple of musical options that took time to explore. It had to be right for me.”

Rissy, slim and dark-haired, was determined not to compromise artistically. ”It wasn’t an easy time for an impatient soul. But I’m stoked with the result and that A&R Records is handling my first commercial label release.” The singer/songwriter from Sydney’s northern beaches crafts her electronic tunes of relentless optimism using a staple of compelling percussive sounds and engaging pop- driven melodies. “I usually start with hearing the chords and beats. That gives me the whole vibe of the song, which then writes the melody and lyrics.”

She has been collaborating with some of EDM's finest producers including Carmada (AUS), L D R U (AUS), Sam Roberts (AUS), Pretty Visitors (AUS) and Hotsauce (USA). “Sunset Raining” by Rissy will be released 30th of October 2015.

This is a really nice song. The gentle electro backing is just right and Rissy has a very distinctive and pleasing voice. It deserves to be heard.

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Sunday Alternative: Sin Cos Tan - ALXA - Jade The Moon - Sweet Mix Kids ft. Pikachunes

Sin Cos Tan - Ten Years (single from Smile Tomorrow Will Be Worse -EP).

Background - Finnish synthpop duo Sin Cos Tan shares new single ‘Ten Years’, a new EP is also set for a release in October. Synth-pop duo Sin Cos Tan have already three albums, a host of packed-out festival appearances and a big dose of musical experience. Finnish duo consists of 2 already established musicians: producer-DJ Jori Hulkkonen (who has previously put his magical producer hands on works also with Tiga, Pet Shop Boys´ Chris Lowe, Jose Gonzalez...) and Juho Paalosmaa, songwriter and vocalist also from Villa Nah who released one of the best albums of 2010 ‘Origin’. 
The Sin Cos Tan duo received huge international critical acclaim for their self-titled debut album and hit single “Trust” back in 2012, including a nomination for ‘Critics Choice of Album of The Year’ at the Finnish Emma-Awards. The boys chose not to rest on their laurels and released only 10 months later their successful follow-up album ‘Afterlife’ including hit single Limbo. Third album "Blown Away" was released fall 2014 with singles "Love Sees No Colour" and "Lifestyle" and "Heart Of America". 

From their self-titled debut album in 2012 onwards, Juho Paalosmaa and Jori Hulkkonen have established a classic partnership within the duo-format, great songwriting and cool synth sounds. With three critically acclaimed albums already out and new more clubby EP on the way, Sin Cos Tan is at the peak of their creative powers. No shortage of drama, intensity nor sheer pop perfection – this duo delivers.

'Ten Years' has a dance feel, that drifts into an atmospheric synth pop song, and keeps on developing, until the final note.

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ALXA - Let Go.

Background - With a wealth of material in many styles lined up for 2016, ALXA begins her musical journey with the single 'Let Go'  from the forthcoming ‘Lost E.P.’ a collection of electronic based tracks.

A voice, which at the tender age of 20 has already been compared to both Amy Winehouse and Adele could be both a blessing and a curse. Yet within the incredible voice of ALXA you get that sense of pain, and effortlessness that you got with Amy, plus a vocal range and power that hints at Adele but with a soulful, rhythm and blues undertone and inspiration. If there is a voice capable of trying to carry the burden of these lofty comparisons its surely ALXA’s. 

ALXA is a 20 year old singer/songwriter based in Islington, North London. She has been singing from a very young age, and from early on can remember being inspired by an eclectic range of jazz, opera, soul and house music. Describing her music in one word as ‘passionate’ ALXA bases her song writing on real life stories, different places and stages in her life. ALXA refers to her music and style as ‘human’, in other words she connects with the feelings and emotions of her listeners through the common medium of music.

ALXA has a remarkable voice and range, and she uses it to full effect on 'Let Go'. Comparisons there may be, however, she can clearly put her own mark on a song, another one of those that leaves me wanting to hear more.


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Jade The Moon  - U Take Care.

Background - The lyrics for "U Take Care" can actually be perceived in so many ways. This track was conceived after a 3 day Foals listening binge and recorded loosely into a voice note similar to our previous track. The track was built around the original voice note recording, which  actually makes several appearances on the final final production of the song.  At first listen 'U Take Care' may sound like a love song, but if you listen closely its got a mean streak….

We like to attempt to create honest music, letting the listeners in as to interact and guide us in our music creation.

We featured Jade The Moon a few months back, 'U Take Care' just seems to good to ignore. The soundtrack intrigues, the fine vocals contrast with their smoothness, even with a mean streak in the lyrics.

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Sweet Mix Kids ft. Pikachunes - The Whole World.

Background - Prominent New Zealand DJ group Sweet Mix Kids present their new single, The Whole World, featuring Wellington/Melbourne synth-pop prince Pikachunes. 'The Whole World' is a collaboration between Pikachunes and Sweet Mix Kids (Warner NZ). It's a genre mashing beast the guys recorded between NZ, Paris and LA late last year. Pikachunes is the indie pop musical project of Miles McDougall (i.e. Miles G. Loveless), a songwriter, musician and producer based in Wellington, New Zealand. Trained in jazz, for McDougall "a typical track features one or two synths, a 70's analog bass line, and a series of reverberated vocal harmonies, all driven by an atypical disco beat.".

He founded Pikachunes as a solo project in 2009, after a skateboarding incident left him with plates and pins in his arm. At the time he was studying Jazz Performance on drums and working towards a Bachelor of Music. While his arm healed McDougall turned to digital composition and production to keep himself occupied. According to McDougall, "The name came to me whilst I was in hospital under heavy amounts of morphine for pain. As cliche as it sounds I woke up with the name in my head and it stuck." In August 2015 McDougall signed with Sydney record label, Monday Records.

A great funky rhythm drives this song forward, with stand out vocals. Talking of which the repetitive lines almost become a musical instrument in themselves.

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Saturday Songs: August Wells - The Sea Birds - Angus C Crowley

August Wells - Come On In Out Of That Night.

Background Info - 'Come On In Out Of That Night' is the new single by August Wells and was released on September 4th on FIFA ('Forever In Financial Arrears') records.

A musical project formed in New York by Dublin native Ken Griffin (Rollerskate Skinny, Kid Silver and Favourite Sons) and New York pianist John Rauchenberger, August Wells teamed up with the Cork based independent label earlier this year for the release of the sumptuous 'Here In the Wild' single and that partnership continues for what is the perfect follow up.

 'Come On In Out Of That Night' once again has the deep lilt of Griffin's voice combined with the sound of Rauchenbergers piano arrangements, add to that Louis Schwadron (Radio Head & Grizzly Bear) and Griffins uplifting brass arrangements which are accented by fat choruses contrasting with the deep twisted vocal. The result is a an elegant three minutes of lustrous music tinged with melancholia yet bathed in hope offering a real slice of the alternative.

August Wells recently appeared on Ireland's RTE 2's 'Other Voices (excerpt attached) and have just completed an Irish in support of their forthcoming release. The are currently recording their second album which is due for release in Feb 2016.

This is to good to miss and I am grateful to Eddie at FIFA for bringing it to our attention. Everything about this song cries quality, superb vocals and music, and the vital ingredient - a passion for delivering great music.

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The Sea Birds - Am I Wasting My Time.

Background - The debut single 'Am I Wasting My Time' from Melbourne band The Sea Birds is a stunning glimpse into the beautifully crafted repertoire of this illustrious five-piece. The group began their musical voyage into the rich musical landscape of indie pop sound in late 2014. Comprised of dual lead vocalists Lara Wentworth and Loic Mamet and primary songwriter Mike Amarant, every member plays a part in the execution and production of ideas, including the rhythm section Lucas Wentworth and James Duplessis who have only very recently just joined the group.

The arrangements of Am I Wasting My Time draw heavily on the band’s love of indie pop. The sweetly gentle melodies with shades of alt country rock and nuanced guitar work pair flawlessly with the melancholic sentiments of the song’s lyrics. The outfit felt this track that captured the band’s ‘sweet but sad’ musical sensibility, embracing a ‘good earthy, no frill musical approach and is easily reproduced in a live setting.’

When writing songs band member Mike Amarant likes to get lost in his creation. “The great thing about writing songs is the endless artistic license and infinite exploration of ideas and music that you can bring to the process,” he says. Likewise, when crafting Am I Wasting my Time Mike wanted it to have a universal message that anyone who’s loved or been loved can relate to. “The song belongs to no- one and everyone,” he says. “It is easy to relate to the fragility and uncertainty that every new relationship brings. That is what is at the heart of the song.”

The track was recorded with David McCluney who has engineered and produced for a who’s who of independent Australian bands for more than three decades, including Skipping Girl Vinegar, Mick Harvey (The Bad Seeds, The Birthday Party) and Nick Cave. The band also enlisted the help from Tony Floyd (Black Sorrows, Gurrumul) for the single. The ensemble clicked and the recording was nailed quickly. The band’s approach to recording is all about being lean and purposeful when they hit the studio. “You can still be creative and have fun…but it costs a lot less to do this before you get to the studio,” says Mike. “Recording Am I Wasting My Time was a quick kill in the studio.”

The Sea Birds has evolved slowly but steadily, and they want to continue that evolution. Their strength lies in the cross-over potential to be many things due to the diversity of the group’s members and influences. Loic Mamet has moved over from Mauritius to further develop his musical style and vocal approach, Lara Wentworth comes from a broad chorale, music theatre and popular music background and Mike Amarant is the group’s chief songwriter and guitarist with a lot of ongoing ideas and completed pieces that he feeds through to the group.

'Am I Wasting My time' is an upbeat indie pop song, with a leaning towards alt country both musically and in the harmonies. The other four songs in this release, are a little gentler, and definitely have more of a alt country feel. As debut's go, this is a very good selection of songs, (website here).

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Angus C Crowley - October.

Background - Angus C-Crowley is an alt-folk poet with a head of soul and sweet harmony. An acoustic wordsmith constantly caught between two Pauls - Dempsey and Kelly - with Jeff Buckley and Evan Dando whispering into his ears. 

Angus C-Crowley has always seen music as a vehicle to share his poetry and a platform to explore his understanding of the world. Vocally and lyrically driven in the classic folk tradition, with the honest accompaniment of a guitar, ukulele or banjo, with each song he aims to strike the balance between aesthetics and substance and create a moment of pause with his audience.

‘October’ is a soulful acoustic drift that will slowly soak its way into your ear, from the 30th October, 2015. It is the debut release for Angus C-Crowley, who has been tinkering away at his melodies and harmonies for the past decade while lapping up the sunshine on the NSW Mid-North Coast.

‘October’ was originally conceived over 10 years ago while Angus C-Crowley was at university, recording with a friend in his parent’s garage. Revisited and refined this year for release under the guidance of producer Matt O’Connor from the A&R Department, the track displays a developing maturity in Angus C-Crowley’s sound while still retaining the honesty and simplicity of the original with stripped back instrumentation and smooth layered vocals.

The song explores the fickle nature of sleep and dreams, from the effortless highway nod to the evening struggle to ‘lead’ your mind to rest, and the general malaise born from the inevitable stocktaking of life as the year comes to an end. “It came together from a series of scattered thoughts on receipts and in sketchbooks over time, that I slowly weaved into a melody I had been toying with for a while.” – Angus C-Crowley.

'October' gives the impression that the singer is pondering and thinking, before singing each verse. This adds to the overall feeling of a personal song, and that we are allowed to share, some of the authors thoughts. Calmly delivered, both the stripped back feel, and engaging vocals, make for a fine song.

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Friday Five: Liphemra - Peru - Little Death - The Noted - Apothek.

Liphemra - 'did u cry'.

Background - Los Angeles based Liphemra (comprised of Liv Marsico, Trey Findley, Miles Gray, Chris Parise) have just dropped their first official release 'did u cry'. Both dark and hypnotising in it's repetition, the track manifest an aesthetic unrivalled by any other project coming out of LA right now.

"You break up... Never talk again. You just want to know if they cried." - Liv

'did u cry' teases an up-coming EP by the same name which is set for an early March release via LA-based label Future Gods.

A wonderfully powerful background sound, gives way to Liv Marsiso's emotionally charged vocals, that dance above the ever changing soundtrack. A real alternative that works so well.

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Peru (the band) - I Need You.

Background - Great music can take you places.  So, perhaps it’s appropriate that Peru the Band shares its name with one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.  The soul-infused indie group has brilliantly combined elements of classic Motown, jazz and blues to create a pleasingly unforgettable sound. 

Peru the Band is set to release their highly anticipated debut EP, Ordinary People, on December 14, 2015. “Ordinary People is an inviting and warm listen,” declares The Huffington Post, “often peppered with vintage-style horns and piano….with Motown touches abound.”

Over the past several months, Peru has generated notable buzz for their songs “I Need You,” “Forever” and “My Lady.”  Established by accident in 2014, Peru the Band is comprised of Long Island natives, Michael Desmond (vocals/guitar), Tom Costa (bass) and Jay Scalchunes (drums). All virtuosic musicians, the three began writing songs together while playing with other touring bands. And, the rest, as they say is history. 

Collectively, the members of Peru have toured with groups like Taking Back Sunday and Bayside, and have shared the stage with artists from One Republic, Hanson and Jacks Mannequin. Additionally, they’ve been showcased in festival line-ups for Warped Tour, Taste of Chaos, Bamboozle and others. 

Peru recorded Ordinary People with Dan Gluszak, drummer for Envy On The Coast and Times of Grace (Roadrunner Records) and Mike Watts of Vudu Studios (The Pixies, The Dear Hunter, As Tall As Lions, Brand New). Catch Peru the Band in New York at Pianos on December 1, and at Bowery Electric on December 8 and December 15.

Nice jangly guitars and rhythm, support the 'just as nice' vocals and harmonies, and then the horns take it to another level. This is one super cool band.

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Little Death - Hotel Tokyo.

Background - Perth’s Little Death are the brainchild of enigmatic singer-songwriter Ryan Carson and have already begun with a narrative that most musicians only dream of and even more spend their recording careers attempting to achieve.

After finding production inspiration in the critically acclaimed Placebo album ‘Meds’, Carson took a wild chance by sending his demos to the renowned producer behind ‘Meds’, Dimitri Tikovoi (Placebo, The Horrors). Wildly curious from what he heard, Tikovoi invited Carson to record his debut album with him in London. Now sitting on a completed body of work that was mixed by Neil Comber (30 Seconds To Mars) and engineered by Andrew Hughes (Florence and the Machine), the soft single ‘Valleys’ appeared in June but is now spearheaded by current single and flagship track ‘Hotel Tokyo’.

Just launched to a sweaty hometown reception at Amplifier Bar, ‘Hotel Tokyo’ showcases Carson’s love of dark guitar driven alt-rock with a keen pop sensibility that has seen the track start appearing on playlists around the country. Little Death are armed and almost ready to announce the release of an emotional and brutally honest album that intertwines the intricate and delicate nature of Carson’s lyrics with the brazen and uninhibited music he backs them with.

There's more than enough going on in this song to keep the listeners attention, as competing styles come together in a coherent manner, whether its just vocal over drums, or the full on onslaught of alt rock at it's finest.


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The Noted - Hello (from the album 'Not Far Away').

Background - The Noted is an original band based out of Portland, OR featuring Daniel Work (piano/keys/vocals/acoustic guitar/songwriter), Jeff Koch (electric guitar), Mike Snyder (drums/percussion), John Dwyer (bass/vocals) and Angela Baldino (vocals/percussion). 

Our music is most often compared to Collective Soul, The Fray, Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello, Train, Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac and many other amazing artists.

The band say 'Our music is diverse, highly original and great for the whole family'.

'Not Far Away' was produced, written and recorded, by the band. Vocals and harmonies really are quite something, and the variety within the songs very refreshing. 'Hello' is a good reflection of what musically, lays in store for the listener.


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Apothek - Family.

Background - Apothek is a child of its time. Though with any genetic dichotomy, this is one that spans generations. It embodies nostalgia and being part of tradition – an amalgam of parents, grandparents, siblings and cousins. Family, to be more precise…

Their genesis begins with debut single ‘Family’, and with it, a sound that could arguably only exist today. But beyond the cropped rhythms and synthetic symphonies, there’s a sense of classic melody that feels strangely inherent. Perhaps it stems from Apothek’s somewhat unlikely pairing; combining the freewheeling spontaneity of singer/songwriter Morten Myklebust with the more premeditative musings of producer Nils Martin Larsen. It’s a union of celebrated synthesis and one that straddles the divide between electronic and organic.

Lyrically speaking, ‘Family’ recites random states of consciousness – observing the dysfunctional, and at times destructive, quandary of family life. Stream the track below... Though still in their musical infancy, the Oslo-based duo sit alongside some of Norway’s finest, having collaborated with experimental jazz supergroup Jaga Jazzist and embarking their first ever live shows with pop wunderkind Susanne Sundfør.

Fresh from a buzzed (The Line Of Best Fit, Crack Magazine, Ja Ja Ja) and beyond-capacity showcase at Norway’s renowned Øya Festival, Apothek are once again invited to join Sundfør on tour; confirmed for a string of UK/EU dates this October/November.

'Family' is released today. The soundtrack commences in a gentle intriguing manner and vocals match the style and flow of the piece. Then a beautiful symphonic soundtrack sends the song soaring to a wonderful place before vocals take control again. Exceptional.

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