Weekend Wonders: American Anymen + Lise - Anna Coogan - AyOwA - Rosie Carney - New Mystics - Patrick McKinney - Ravines

American Anymen + Lise - Nobody Made Me Smile Like You Did.

Background - New York City outfit American Anymen have released their new 'OUI EP' with Lise, a Parisian singer and pianist. The first single 'Nobody Made My Smile Like You Did' is accompanied by a charming video shot around the Big Apple. This is the second collaborative release for American Anymen and LISE. In 2014, they released a demo called the '+EP'. In the two years that have since passed, they have jointly played shows in NYC and Paris. 

American Anymen is a music collective, whose view on art is that what you have to say is more important than the equipment you own and that passion is more important than technical expertise.  Hailing from Paris, Lise’s eponymous debut album was released in 2011 on French label Cinq7. Versed in piano since she was five, her music path took her on a detour from her classical music education at the Conservatory of Narbonne.

"The two American Anymen + LISE albums present more personal songs. These 4 new songs are about how I dealt with my time in prison, my 13-year battle with heroin addiction, the memories of friends who made me happy but are not around to hear these new songs, and how the world is much simpler than the ruling elites make us think," explains Brett Sullivan. American Anymen Facebook here, Lise Facebook here.

If a beautiful vocal duet and understated yet sophisticated soundtrack sounds good for you then 'Nobody Made Me Smile Like You Did' could well be just for you, it's gorgeous.

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Anna Coogan - Burn For You.

Background - Anna Coogan has been preparing for this moment her whole life, ever since she was a girl growing up in Boston, influenced by her classical opera training and her father’s protest albums by Phil Ochs and Bob Dylan. After several efforts with her Pacific Northwest-based alt-country band north 19, a pair of well-received indie solo releases and a collaboration with producer JD Foster (2014’s Birth of the Stars), Coogan’s latest is a stylistic breakthrough. Anna Coogan will release The Lonely Cry of Space & Time on April 28.

The album, a virtual two-person effort which features Willie B (Brian Wilson) on drums and Moog bass, combines Coogan’s three-octave soprano vocals, electric guitar soundscapes and pointed social commentary into a fierce cohesive piece which combines the personal and the political, in a musical hybrid of rock, country, pop and classical opera into a unique whole.

A true independent, Anna releases her own albums and books her own tours, which have taken her all over the world, including international festivals like the Blue Ball in Lucerne, Switzerland, the Maverick in Suffolk, U.K., as well as the Glasgow Americana Festival and Celtic Connections in Scotland.  She has also played extensively in Germany and the Netherlands, and toured as a member of the Johnny Dowd Band. Website here, Facebook here.

'Burn For You' is a straight forward and pleasing simplistic rock song until... well until it upgrades into something absolutely wonderful as Anna Coogan just nails the whole thing with her incredible vocal abilities.

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AyOwA - Rus.

Background - AyOwA are back with a beauty of a 3rd single coming out 24th Feb. “Rus” follows the critically acclaimed singles ’Newcross’ and ’Sommer’ leading up to AyOwA’s debut EP set for release in May on Copenhagen label Music For Dreams.

It seems the melancholy is coded in to the Scandinavian DNA. Many months of darkness and anticipation for a summer that sometimes never comes, sets the tone for soulful longing. Danish duo AyOwA takes this melancholic keynote and makes it into music, and armed with modular synths, old reel-to-reels, and Schneider’s haunting voice, they create their dark and moving electronic pop songs.

Sung in Danish, but with a certain universal and dreaming approach, this band combines noise pop with vapor wave and melodies with improvisation, in an energetic, evocative and playful mix. “Rus” marks the duos 3rd single, leading up to their debut EP set for release in May on Copenhagen label Music For Dreams. In an intoxicated state of mind,  AyOwA finds themselves on a quest to break free of the walls around them, giving in to new love, and letting go of the past. Facebook here.

Our second feature for AyOwA this time with the delicious track 'Rus'. Mixing vibrant synths with dreamy vocals the duo have impressed me again, and some!

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Rosie Carney - Awake Me.

Background - "Awake Me” is a song that’ll stop you dead in your tracks. From the swirling ambience permeating the track to the tender plucked arpeggio, Rosie proves a deft hand at creating sublime tonal flourishes to compliment her vivid lyrics and enchanting voice. At just 19, Rosie Carney has already experienced more of the tumult of life than most her age. Through her raw poetic talent, her experience is channelled into her beautiful music which, at times, recalls the vivid and imaginative folk ambience of Joni Mitchell.

For Rosie to be getting on with her career she has had to overcome insurmountable odds. In a year where discussion about mental health both in the music industry and in broader society has come a long way in removing the stigma and providing insight into sufferers, Rosie is determined to help others by being vocal about her own experiences through her music and her website/blog here, and Facebook here.

It's not far off a year ago that Rosie Carney was first featured on Beehive Candy. 'Awake Me' is a gentle drifting song, where the music is calming and creatively structured, the vocals once again make the track into something very special.

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New Mystics - Modern.

Background (and a minimalist one at that) - New Mystics is the solo project of the Other Lives band member who has previously toured with Radiohead, The National and Bon Iver and played major festivals including Glastonbury, Coachella, Outside Lands, Lollapalooza, Latitude, Sasquatch, and more.

Upcoming collaboration with NoMBe “Can’t Catch Me” hand selected by Pharrell for his executive produced HBO documentary series, to be released as next single in March.

New Mystics releases second single “Modern” via TH3RD BRAIN Records, and is now on all streaming platforms. Debut Los Angeles Show at the Bootleg Theater February 21 at 9pm. Facebook here.

The above promo doesn't give much away about New Mystics, however 'Modern' is a powerful alt rock track that is laden with hooks, charm and emotion, and more than good enough for a feature here.

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Patrick McKinney - Want You To Know.

Background - Patrick McKinney is a singer/songwriter from Queanbeyan, New South Wales. He is currently releasing his debut single ‘Want You To Know’ on all major digital platforms, on the 17th of February. ‘Want You To Know’ was recorded at the Canberra Institute of Technology's Music Industry Centre.  The song has been produced by James Costin & Patrick McKinney.

The song is about going through life and the trials it can throw our way, and how often people stay silent but need to let these feelings out. The song has a pretty relaxed but deep vibe throughout, showcasing elements of low key rock and pop, including a classic guitar solo just after the bridge.
 
Patrick McKinney and his band, will be showcasing the release at Transit Bar Canberra, supporting The Byzantines & The Montreals on the 2nd of March 2017. Patrick’s band includes Paul Moon (Bass Guitar) & Anthony McGaun-Smith (Drums). The trio all met whilst studying music at the Canberra Institute of Technology.

Upcoming Show - Mar 02, Transit Bar, Canberra, (ACT) “Want You To Know” is available on 17th February at all online music stores. Facebook here.

Patrick's distinct and emotive vocals are hard to ignore and who would want to on this gorgeous song. 'Want You To Know' also packs in fine harmonies and a pleasingly robust musical arrangement.

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Ravines - Breathe.

Background - Indie/electronic duo Ravines are releasing their latest single ‘Breathe’ ahead of the release of their forthcoming EP Ordinary.

‘Breathe’ is about a power struggle in a relationship – it’s about a couple suffocating from the over-dominance of one of the partners. The driving beats of the chorus and darker harmonies called for lyrical content that was strong and assertive, and challenged the listener to think beyond the obvious ideas and sets of imagery being used. Ravines (formerly Ophelia) launched their first EP under the new name with a performance at Cassette Nine in Auckland, on February 3rd 2017.

Ravines is a name inspired by the channels and routes music takes to reach people, reminiscent of streams of water through ravines. Their most varied release yet, Ordinary is a continuation of their ever evolving sound, showcasing dense electronic textures combined with rich orchestral scoring.

Ordinary was recorded throughout 2016 in Auckland at Opus Studios and Roundhead Studios, mixed by Patrick Shanahan and Jordan Stone (Wilco, The Datsuns, Crowded House). The tracks 'Ordinary' and 'Breathe' were recorded in Sydney at Alberts Studios and were produced by Michael Szumowski (Josh Pyke, Guy Sebastian, The Veronicas). Website here, Facebook here.

With a simple and  minimal synthy start it's the melodic vocals that first gain attention on 'Breathe'. As the track gently builds the musical soundtrack develops as does the singing, adding a layer of power to what is a very catchy song.

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Thursdays Alternative Double Take: Someday - Teenage Wedding

Someday - This Doesn't Exist (Album).

Background - Seahorse Recordings presents the new 10-track album from Someday, called ‘This Doesn’t Exist’. Now based in Turin (Torino), this trio is comprised of Daniele Bianco, Michele Fierro, and Fabio Digitali. The first single from this album is ‘Last Lesson’.

This is Someday’s debut album, entailing a search for balance and essentialness that may be appreciated by fans of early Tokyo Police Club and Foals, Bombay Bicycle Club, Placebo, Born Ruffians, Hot Hot Heat, and The Stills. The band cite numerous influences, including early Sparklehorse, The Smiths, Joy Division, Placebo, Sonic Youth, The Cure, Paolo Conte and La Crus.

Someday was formed in Collegno, a city close to Torino (Piedmont, Italy) by two childhood friends – Daniel Bianco (guitar/vocals/lyrics) and Michele Fierro (bass). Initially rehearsing in Michele's living room and Daniel's cellar, they began making demo tapes, had several singles on Italian music compilations, and eventually released their debut EP "Flowers in the Cellar" and two singles 'Divano Pulito' and 'Rifugi' in 2016, produced by Luca "Vicio" Vicini of Subsonica. They were then joined by drummer Federico Segato to form a trio, who was subequently replaced by Fabio Digitali.

'This Doesn't Exist' will be available digitally via key digital music platforms as of February 10 and is already available for pre-order (here) on Someday's Bandcamp. In late February, it will also be available on CD with distribution via Audioglobe. Facebook here.

It's not often that we share an entire album however with 'This Doesn't Exist' from Someday, I can, and I found it hard to resist. In the promo above there are a good number of musical influences, alongside artists and bands whose fans, may well find Someday of keen interest. That in itself gives away the diverse nature of the album, sometimes quite dark and moody, other times melancholic, juxtaposed by more new wave and expressive songs. Easier to listen to than describe, enjoy, I think some of you really will...

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Teenage Wedding - City Lights.

Background (and we quote) - Weirdo pop group from Victoria BC Canada, Teenage Wedding, just released their debut album The Great Sadness.

Teenage Wedding began in 2015 when Nick Joy of Zuzu's Petals and Mouthbreathers Owen Hooper began to work on an album that would eventually become The Great Sadness.  Soon joined by Claire and Cosima of Aquarius on keys and guitar/vocals and Ben of Mouthbreather on drums the band began playing relentlessly in Hoopers bedroom.

Though Teenage Wedding was trying form a punk band the amount of grass that filled the jam space cause the music to mellow out and get more and more dreamy. This is where they developed a pretty dissonance, a sonic range somewhere between Pavement, and Asturd Gilberto, or between Sonic Youth and Stevie Nicks.

The band then travelled to Saltspring Island for a weekend of wonder where they recorded the entirety of The Great Sadness. Fuelled by tequila and fettuccine alfredo chilling on mountain some chillers say is made a quartz. Teenage Wedding preformed some weird alchemy.Bandcamp here, Facebook here.

'City Lights' is one of six songs on the bands debut album 'The Great Sadness'. Weirdo pop group? I don't know, I think they are being a little hard on themselves with that description. There are some "interesting" moments where the odd chord change might seem a little bit "out there", otherwise mellow dream punk, might be more fitting. Either way it's a delicious collection of play again songs, unless I just happen to be a weirdo to (don't answer that!!).

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Midweek Muse: Francobollo - Chances - Childcare - You'll Never Get To Heaven - Christine Leakey

Francobollo - Good Times.

Background - Francobollo announce UK tour with The Big Moon plus new single ‘Good Times’ is out now. Following the release of their acclaimed ‘Wonderful’ EP in late 2016, Sweden’s Francobollo return this week with a new single - ‘Good Times’. Possessing an irresistible charm, an undeniable wit - and an infectious personality - these three elements shine through in their schizophrenic, adventurous brand of indie rock.

Once again, esteemed producer Charlie Andrew (Alt-J, Marika Hackman, Benjamin Francis Leftwich etc) is at the helm - with Francobollo’s debut album set for release later this year on Andrew's new label Square Leg Records. "Good Times is a serenade to the bad times in life. The feeling you get when you forget how good things can be.” - the band explains. Quintessential alternative rock that's instantly identifiable as Francobollo - with this new single, the quartet are evidently in fine songwriting form. Hinting at inspiration from the likes of Pavement, Built To Spill, and Cap’n Jazz - they’re at their exhilarating best - sounding more energised than ever before.

The band head out on a run of UK/EU dates this Spring, including support slots with the likes of Cymbals Eat Guitars and Johnossi - (and a full UK tour with The Big Moon) with a special headline single release party at The Battersea Barge on March 10th - and if the band’s previous headline shows are anything to go by - will sell out very quickly. ‘Good Times’ is out now via Square Leg Records. Tour details on our tour page, website here, Facebook here.

'Good Times' stands out with distinct vocals and musicians who can mix elements of full on rock, with more refined and understated interludes. The above noted charm and wit, does somehow slowly become apparent, particularly as the song seemingly falls apart and grinds to a halt, before relaunching, and it's done so well.

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Chances - Shine.

Background - This week Chances released their debut single “Shine”.

The song is a mix of pop, electro, and a touch of world music, with Ojibwe lyrics over an Indian Raga in the choruses. 

There's a ceremonial energy to the vocals, almost prayer-like in the way they weave in and out of each other and in the harmonic intervals, layered overtop a more pop/upbeat arrangement that we feel captures the essence of Chances.

Chances came together in Montreal in 2016 to sketch out a few songs, just to see where uninhibited brainstorming might lead us. New rules brought new possibilities. One person’s writer’s block became another’s building block. Dead ends became playgrounds. Website here, Facebook here, Bandcamp here.

Mixing electro pop with more than a hint of global and traditional flavours gives the song 'Shine' an impressive amount of originality. More importantly the overall feel is both cohesive and flowing, and perhaps most importantly superb to listen to.

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Childcare - Kiss?

Background - Childcare finished 2016 playing their biggest shows to date – in front of thousands as part of Bastille’s nationwide arena tour. This came hot on the heels of the band releasing killer single ‘Film Club’ to comprehensive acclaim. ‘Film Club’ was the first taster of a new EP that also features the stellar ‘Kiss?’ and represents an emphatic statement sure to cement the adoration of all those newly turned on to the London quartet courtesy of that tour.
 
It all started when Ed Cares, one of west London's most in-demand male nannies, was overheard humming a song he had written, by Katie, aged six, who persuaded him to form a band. Josh, eight, boldly proclaimed: "You're probably my second favourite artist after Katy Perry."  And so, after sourcing some neighbourhood musicians capable of living up to Josh’s heady billing — specifically Emma Topolski (bass), Rich Legate (guitar) and Glyn Daniels (drums) — Ed soon had an able band to perform with under the only logical moniker in the circumstances: Childcare. Having honed their vivid and visceral live show on stages including Reading and Leeds festivals and now some of the land’s major concert venues, Childcare have released two singles to date, 'Omega Grey' and ‘Film Club’, earning extensive national radio play and enthusiastic coverage from key online tastemakers.

“While waiting at the school gates to pick up the child I look after, I went to say hi to a couple of the mums I knew in the playground. I went to kiss one on the cheek just as she leant forward to pick something up from her bag on the ground. This left me hovering mid-air above her for a few seconds, at which point instead of returning to my natural standing position, I decided to draw her attention to my predicament by posing the question: ‘Kiss?’ She rose, we greeted, I blushed." Ed Cares, Childcare frontman (and male nanny). Facebook here.

The vocals and supporting vocal arrangements immediately grabbed my attention. 'Kiss?' builds into something a little more powerful than initially expected, where vocals and music compete for your attention, and Childcare demonstrate they have something pretty special going on here.

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You'll Never Get To Heaven - To Be Fair.

Background - This week, Canadian ambient-pop duo You'll Never Get To Heaven have shared the second track "To Be Fair" from their upcoming album. 'Images', their third full-length album is due on March 24th, 2017. 

Alice Hansen, a classically trained pianist and violinist, and Chuck Blazevic, a studio-obsessed tone-sculptor and monome performer, combine their disparate perspectives to co-curate every element of YNGTH together as equals. After gaining a groundswell of support from fans and critics all over the globe for their 2012 self-titled debut and 2014's 'Adorn', the group caught the attention of indie upstart Yellow K Records (Japanese Breakfast, Eskimeaux) on the strength of their breakout single "Caught In a Time, So Far Away". 

The band has partnered with Yellow K for the release of 'Images' in a break from their otherwise staunchly independent ethos. While YNGTH has been reclusive in the past playing only a handful of select festival dates, they are currently planning their first European and North American appearances in support of 'Images' for Spring/Summer 2017. 'Images' will be issued worldwide on Vinyl/Digital via Yellow K and on limited-edition cassette via the band's own Mystic Roses imprint. Website here, Facebook here.

It's less than a month since we first covered this fine duo and the first taste of their new album 'Images'. Last time round we described the track as "a wispy melodic song where the vocals gently float above a rich soundtrack". I think it reasonable with the latest song 'To Be Fair' to make a similar observation. You'll Never Get To Heaven, clearly have the knack for creating ambient, layered and flowing music that really appeals and delights.

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Christine Leakey - Walks Like An Angel (feat. Linda Perhacs).

Background from Christine - The video for Walks Like An Angel was shot mostly underwater in the heart of the 1000 Islands where I grew up. I used simple techniques starting with the use of a GoPro on a selfie stick for the scenes of me sitting in the weeds, and the rest of the video was shot with the help of a friend. The scenery of Linda Perhacs was done in Agoura Canyon by one of her friends for me.

The currents were strong during several takes on one side of the island which made it a little difficult and so we moved to the opposite side which I feel made something that fits with the music well. By the end of the shoot, I was freezing. My lips were blue and I was shaking in the shots of me singing in the water. It was the first day of autumn.

The song was inspired by a friend who lost both his parents within a year apart and features Linda Perhacs on vocals. My second solo record entitled, Wanderlust Wishing Well is due out March 3rd. Website here, Facebook here, pre-order the album on Bandcamp here.

This is our third feature for Christine Leakey (our first was a year ago this month) and once again it's an absolute pleasure to have some new music to share. 'Walks Like An Angel' from next months album release 'Wanderlust Wishing Well', is a lush, gentle and melodic piece, drenched (video pun intended) in beauty and imagination. The video is another creative piece in it's own right, with Christine demonstrating just how much she will invest in her art. The album is a must listen as far as I am concerned.

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Genre Wander: Coastal Lights - Porshyne - Ménage à Trois - Dreadzone - Clap! Clap! - Bernache

Coastal Lights - Weekday.

Background - Say g’day to Coastal Lights, a fresh five piece band from the Gold Coast made up of young music lovers who know nothing but the way of music! Formed in July 2016 by lead singer Atiya, bassist Cameron and drummer Jamie, the band cemented it’s full line up in no time thanks to fulfilling David and Angelo’s eager dreams of being in a band.

Despite their individual musical upbringings, these young sound creators found their Indie Pop/Rock vibes and instantly jumped into the deep end by sharing their music to the live Gold Coast scene only two months into forming. Their demo of their first single ‘Weekday’ attracted a positive array of interest when offered gig opportunities by local and national venues such as The Kitchens and the Raw Artists Showcase.

Now they are excited to share their first official release through The A&R Department this January. ‘Weekday’ is a song for breaking free of expectations. The band seeks to convey a sense of, “I’m just going to do my own thing and see where it takes me.” “Life always puts you under fire with negative opinions and judgements, its best to just centre yourself and do what makes you happy,” states the band.

‘Weekday’ was recorded, mixed and mastered at Blind Boy Studios in Nerang by Brad Hosking. This song is about the grinding days we spend locked into routine or schedule without a moment to breathe. All upcoming shows and events will be posted on their Facebook page. With no intentions of slowing down, Coastal Lights are ready to have their music heard on a global scale. Facebook here.

A fresh indie rock feeling continues right through 'Weekday', with the chorus adding extra energy and melody. Vocals and musicianship compliment each other and for a band of such short duration together, the music is tight and professional, as is a splendid guitar break towards the end.

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Porshyne - Exit.

Background - Porshyne are an atmospheric rock five-piece hailing from Brighton. Formed in 2014, early releases from the band such as “Residue” and “Warp” have helped to cement their name within the Brighton music scene, leading to them playing shows alongside the likes of Black Peaks, Valerian Swing, Town Portal and many more. Now, after having burrowed away to record their debut EP “Environmental Music” with Mark Roberts (Black Peaks, Broker, The Physics House Band), Porshyne are set to return with their most heavy, emotive and accomplished material to date.

The contexture of the EP is a sound that sits somewhere between prog, alt-rock, electronic music and post rock. “Environmental Music” is a masterfully dynamic and heavily textured collection of tracks combining melodic vocals with intricate and carefully refined guitar work, which alternates between cinematic and darker, heavier phrases that are intertwined amongst complex rhythms and subtle electronic moments.

“Environmental Music” is an intensely structured body of work, which is as meticulous as it is powerful. Albums that manage to merge such a wide variety of styles and exhibit such a multitude of musical landscapes in such an unabridged manner are rare. This debut EP from Porshyne is a statement of intent and is not one that should be ignored. Facebook here.

The description "atmospheric rock" is pretty much spot on for the track 'Exit'. Powerful vocals and an expansive band sound are hallmarks of the song. From a paced and musically refined start the song builds into a crescendo of heavy vibrant rock'n'roll, it's the sort of track that's hard to ignore.

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Ménage à Trois - Homecoming.

Background - Last summer Ménage à Trois shared 'South Seas' the first single to be taken from their forthcoming album 'Australia Part III', coming out on French indie label Cracki Records (home to Los Porcos, Agar Agar) late March. 

This week the Mancunian synth-smiths have shared another new track and video from their debut album, a swoonsome late-night pop jam called 'Homecoming.' Titled  'Australia Part III', their debut LP will follow their 'Australia Part I' & 'Part II' EP's.

Ménage à Trois represent a subtle meeting point between the indie of Manchester and the R&B of R. Kelly. Inspired by the ocean and the deep abyss, they have a groove and a flowing sensibility. 

Like the prism from cut glass this project relentlessly makes us discover our closest feelings, dissolving their music in a soft ray of light. Facebook here.

'Homecoming' is a delicious mixture of melodic vocals and a fabulous soundtrack, formed out of lush synth sounds. Overall the band create a spine tingling feel, and a flowing hypnotic vibe.

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Dreadzone - Mountain.

Background - Entering an impressive 3rd decade, Dreadzone, one of the most energetic, exciting and powerful live bands to emerge from the post-rave scene, release a brand new album “Dread Times” on February 17th 2017.

‘Dread Times’ is the band’s 8th studio album and the 3rd release on their own “Dubwiser” label. Their old skool dread sound comes bubbling to the surface on this album and it digs deeper into their dub and reggae roots whilst still keeping the beats fresh and the textures electronic. Conscious lyrics, social ills, matters of the heart and mind merge with 21st century dubwise flavours. The album is an eclectic rolling journey that recalls elements from an illustrious 23 year history while always looking ahead to the next phase.

Pioneered by former members of Big Audio Dynamite (and, by inheritance, carrying forward the heart and soul of The Clash) Dreadzone’s two decade plus career has been championed by the late John Peel, signed to the legendary Creation Records and Virgin before finally securing their independence by founding their own aforementioned Dubwiser record label.

Since their inception in 1993 Dreadzone have steadily been releasing underground storms of albums, progressively bettering, refining and perfecting their own unique and inimitable take on dub - mixed as it is with aspects of dance, sublime guitar riffs, folk roots sentiments and breakbeat bass styles - whilst bringing the party to every club, dancehall and field they've shown up at. Always blowing audiences away and steadily earning for themselves the best possible reputation as a live act in the process. Tour dates over on our Tour news page. Website here, Facebook here.

Dreadzone may be on their eighth album however the creativity and quality show no sign of abating. 'Mountain' is a wonderful genre spanning dub centred song, where everything seems to have been precision engineered and then soaked in heart and feeling. Love it!

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Clap! Clap! - Hope (feat OY).

Background - Acclaimed Italian producer, songwriter and live performer Clap! Clap! (aka Cristiano Crisci) will release his forthcoming album ‘A Thousand Skies’ on February 17 via Black Acre.

His latest single "Hope" follows on the heels of off-kilter club track ‘Araqis’ and the afro-folk-flecked ‘Nguwe’, which featured rising South African star Bongeziwe Mabandla. Like ‘Nguwe’, ‘Hope’ is also a collaboration, this time featuring Berlin-based band OY on vocals and co-production. The duo, consisting of Swiss-Ghanaian vocalist/musician Joy Frempong and drummer/producer Lleluja-Ha, are one of Clap! Clap!’s favorite bands. On the sparkling ‘Hope’ they fuse glitchy electronics with elements of jazz and avant-hip-pop.

‘A Thousand Skies’ is Clap! Clap!’s second album for Black Acre, following on from his breakthrough 2014 debut LP ‘Tayi Bebba’. Bringing together disparate inspirations and styles onto the dance-floor of his mind, ‘A Thousand Skies’ sees Clap! Clap! create a high energy and inventive kaleidoscopic fusion of sound – drawing on the traditional global rhythms of the old world, Hip Hop, Footwork, UK Bass and House.  As with his debut, the album is anchored by a story — this time of a young girl’s journey through the stars — which completes the work. The album will also feature collaborations with fellow Italian beatmaker HDADD, and South African band (and Planet Mu signees) John Wizards.

The now internationally acclaimed producer and performer started his career age 13 in the mid–1990s as a rapper, before picking up the saxophone and performing both jazz standards and jazz/punk fusion with his band Trio Cane. Now, as Clap! Clap!, he’s taking his energetic live shows across Europe and Japan. Following the release of his debut album in 2013, has found a fan in Paul Simon who told Rolling Stone the LP is “a masterpiece. He makes music sound new and old at the same time.”. This led to Crisci to collaborate on the production for this years Number 1 Paul Simon album 'Stranger to Stranger’. Website here, Facebook here, Pre order album here. Tour dates over on our Tour news page.
 
Comprising of fifteen eclectic and mesmerising tracks 'A Thousand Skies' is a journey of musical ideas, styles and moods. 'Hope' is just a fraction of the whole, and in fairness the album takes the listener in many different and creative directions. It's both natural and artistic and yes the feeling that old and new are combining is a good observation.

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Bernache - Your Name.

Background - Your Name is singer-producer Bernache’s first release. This first track opens slowly giving us a lo-fi hip-hop feel from the late 90’s and early 2000’s. The single and music video was released yesterday.

Bernache (singer-producer Emma) is a Canadian (Quebec) based indie / LoFi recording project. She tells us - I had my debut as a singer and guitar player in my band Men I Trust. It happened two years ago, when I was contacted by the leading members for my soft / grainy / unusual voice. The project brought me in China, where I toured in October 2016 and also in Quebec’s (Canada) nicest music festivals and venues (Montreal’s International Jazz Fest, Osheaga, the FEQ…), got our music in over 40 Hypem features and played over 1.5 million times across the popular streaming platforms.

Bernache is my personal project, where I do the composing and the producing all on my own. I learned composing, recording and playing with virtual synths on Ableton Live. I am proud of now being able to do everything myself, because I always composed avoiding messing with audio jacks and sequencers (I hate it).

Finally, on the topic of my artist name… I’ve been called like this for a while in my close inner-cirle. “Bernache” is a French word for "Goose", which is a bird that also happens to have a crappy little voice. It seemed logic to use this as a nickname for my music project). Facebook here.

'Your Name' is awash with rich and beautiful synthy sounds that have a laid back vibe and beat carrying the song along. Vocals are anything but 'Goose' like (see last paragraph above), they are smooth and flow perfectly with the music.

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Monday Mix: Jesse Jo Stark - Analog Candle, Freedom Fry - Cavegreen - Joe Nisbet Jr

Jesse Jo Stark - Driftwood.

Background - Singer/songwriter Jesse Jo Stark launched her own record label, “Sugar Jones Music,” in late January and inaugurated it with her first single, the achingly beautiful tune about love and loss, “Driftwood.” An exciting new artist on the rise, Jesse Jo has begun to carve out her own niche amongst the musical landscape with her beautiful lyrics and original melodies.

Very few young artists have inherited bonds to the music world as much as Jesse Jo. Growing up in an environment that fostered creative expression, music came naturally to her and became a great way for her to express herself. Under the guidance and collaboration of notable musicians such as Steve Jones of the Sex Pistols and Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses, Jesse Jo began writing and recording in her teens.

Jesse’s musical influences reflect her own eclectic tastes, ranging from country, punk, folk to rock and roll. Each genre shares the qualities that are most evident in her own music – honesty and authenticity. Often drawing on her deep love of horror for inspiration, Jesse Jo has crafted a look and sound all of her own. “I'm in love with the Cramps and I also grew up listening to Merle Haggard, Linda Ronstadt, Fleetwood Mac, Brian Eno and David Bowie—they all influence me,” says Stark.

“Driftwood” is produced by Jason Lytle (Grandaddy, Band Of Horses producer) and written by Jesse Jo and Johnathan Rice (a frequent Jenny Lewis collaborator and film composer). “I loved working with Johnathan on this song because he has such a lovely way of writing. My lyrics are a bit darker so I felt like the combination turned out beautifully,” said Jesse Jo. Another track, “Down Your Drain,” will be released as a B-Side to “Driftwood.” Produced earlier this year by Steve Jones, the companion video was shot by Olivia Malone and starred Lanna Lyon, Payden Hayes and Bella Hadid. Website here, Facebook here. mp3 here.

Putting the influences cited above to one side, and just focusing on the song, then 'Driftwood' is one very fine piece and Jesse Jo Stark clearly has a talent for both writing and performing both original and refined music. Production is spot on, allowing her vocals to dreamily glide above the soundtrack as both carry the melody with style. A case perhaps, that her influences have done a good job, and Jesse a superb one.

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Analog Candle - Winter '15. (EP).

Background - Analog Candle are pleased to share their new 'Winter '15' EP. In terms of the EP itself, and conversely given the circumstances in which it was born, the lyrical content reflects Callum’s apprehensions on personal relationships, as well as the uncertain fragility that followed him around during his first winter in NYC.  Each song is intended to provide a small window into how that winter progressed, as well as mapping the chronology of a doomed relationship.

Album opener ‘Scarlett’s Web’ features delicate female vocals that hover above shimmering electronic effects, while its lyrical themes allude to the beginning of the end of a love affair, “I see where my body is / But my heart’s far away”.  Elsewhere, ‘Trier’, a wavy slice of electronic pop, explores flashes of real life pain - ‘Lying aimless in bed / With all the books that stay unread’ juxtaposed with buoyant electronic currents.

Themes of reminiscence and rejection sit alongside concepts of expressionism, and throughout the EP, heightened emotion is given a front seat over exact realism in the form of piercing lyrics that twist and linger like smoke-trails. Website here, Facebook here.

We featured one song from the EP (Trier) last month. The opportunity to share the whole EP is to good to pass up on. I would think it fair to say that the four songs indicate this is a band full of ideas and not frightened to test out differing directions or styles. The one constant so far is the quality, and that's a given.

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Freedom Fry - Songbird.

Background - Freedom Fry’s music, which heavily bleeds the warmth and sunshine of their home state of California, skirts the lines between pop, folk and indie rock – always blended with danceable rhythms and a sing-a-long chorus.

After Belgian sensation Stromae took notice, he asked Freedom Fry to go on tour with him in the US. Freedom Fry has also toured with Communion Presents and performed in Madewell stores across the country as part of a national campaign partnership. They’ve shared the stage with other acts such as X Ambassadors, Phantogram, Aurora, and French darlings Lilly Wood & The Prick. They’ve appeared at School Night in Los Angeles & New York, Popscene in San Francisco, Club NME in London, Nuba in Paris, and standout showcases at SXSW.

The now-married Michigan-native Bruce Driscoll and Parisian Marie Seyrat are preparing to release new music in 2017, following the success of their 2016 single “Shaky Ground,” a song that made Spotify’s “Best of 2016: Ultimate Indie playlist.” Website here. mp3 here.

'Songbird' is the third piece from Freedom Fry we have featured. With a gentle understated and predominately acoustic back drop, the vocals and delightful harmonies remain the focal point throughout, and they are natural, warm and melodic. Looking forward to he next one. 

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Cavegreen - Over the Earth.

Background - Electro folk duo Cavegreen's new album Vita Lucida was just released on Friday. Cavegreen is the artistic collaboration of Eleanor Murray and Gianluca Bucci that blends electronic and acoustic music, poetry, and images.

Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Cavegreen takes inspiration from the green, lush surroundings from which they come, and it can be felt in Vita Lucida through it's themes of human connectivity to nature. The album is a positive electro-pop experience that combines earthly drum and dance beats with light, dreamy melodies, a soundscape that is both grounded and ethereal.

The songs sing about the profound beauty of nature, inspired by ancient philosophical traditions. Vita Lucida is one to dance with, dream beside, and ponder with.Website here, Facebook here.

Our second feature for Cavegreen this time with the song 'Over the Earth', the first track on their just released album 'Vita Lucida'. One of nine tracks, the opening song indicates something special may be on the way, and Cavegreen keep that promise with some exquisite music and beautiful vocals.

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Joe Nisbet Jr - All The Right Reasons (EP).

Background from Joe Nisbet Jr - You may (or not) know that musicians can be bitchier than Joan Collins, and I've always relished being opinionated, acerbic, or plain dismissive about people's songwriting. So it is with understandable trepidation that I approach the criticism entailed in the release of my own first foray into original material - which I also arranged, played on and sang. There would appear to be nowhere to hide - I present you with an open goal.

If you don't like it, I can't blame the extraordinary talents and generosity of the brilliant musicians, engineers and biz enablers who have donated enough rope for this auto asphyxiation. If you don't like it, I will understand entirely and think none the worse of mankind than I already do. I will not cry, I promise I will be in no way upset. Because most importantly, if you don't like it that means you've listened to it. And because you've listened to it, let me give you a little background on the tunes:

All The Right Reasons, is not about drinking, it is about stopping on a hillside and looking around to see where you actually are. Often a very different place than you thought. Judge Not, is about recognising mistakes. There's a universal theme for you. Too Blue, is about feeling so bad that you don't even want to play the guitar in the pub. Honey You Lie, is just a jaunty little pop song. About Westminster. Maybe. So go on, give yourself a chance to form an opinion - listen to my new songs. You might even like them. Amazon (20 Feb onwards) here, Bandcamp here, KFM Records here.

I was tempted to begin these words by ripping into the EP and tearing it apart, as Joe clearly has that potential outcome as a possibility. However the whole idea of Beehive Candy is to ignore the stuff that's not to our taste and celebrate the music that is (and because music 'critics' are... well they just are). So fear not Joe Nesbit Jr, we judge not, and enjoy a lot!!!

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