The Arthur Brothers - Grascals - Kidsmoke - Henry Jamison

The Arthur Brothers - Flawless.

The Arthur Brothers began life as a recording project and quickly grew into an artistic alliance centered around the biological brothers Matt and Danny Arthur and the producer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist J. C. Wright. Their music is inspired by a mutual obsession for inventive song-craft and a cross-generational love of classic albums with dramatic, bold and intriguing productions.

Driven by a devotion to the recording process and a passionate desire to make a record full of mystery, melody, diversity and depth - the Arthurs and Wright, along with a coterie of talented contributors have been on a long and challenging creative expedition. 

The Arthur Brothers’ second release is a song of icy emotion and heartfelt soul searching about the complexities of broken love and human fallibility. The regretful and remorseful narrative plays out with Matt Arthur's tortured, distorted vocal set into a mountainous and cinematic backdrop of dark majesty that conjures up images of Himalayan vistas and arctic landscapes.

Cavernous drums, moody pianos, visceral guitars, and the ominous drones of accordions, harmoniums and drunken trombones all punctuated by the haunting backing vocals of J. C. Wright and Danny Arthur. ‘Flawless’ is out now on ClearLight Records / Declared Goods. TWITTER.

There is something quite expansive and dramatic about 'Flawless'. The second single (we shared their first in September), The Arthur Brothers create an imaginative atmosphere with stirring harmonies, mysterious vocals and a powerful soundtrack, two songs in and they are firmly on our radar. 

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

Grascals - Heartbreak Hall of Fame.

The award-winning Grascals bring a new single from their forthcoming album with the song “Heartbreak Hall Of Fame.” Smooth but driving with a classic sound, “Heartbreak Hall of Fame” merges vintage Country with modern Bluegrass in just the right way, a combination the Grascals do so well. Written by Larry Joe Cox, Ray Edwards and Dicky Minor, it tells the story of unrequited love and a man whose suffering is endured through this bitter lament. “Somewhere in the record books, There will be your name. And a list of all the hearts you broke while you played your cheatin’ game”

Lead vocals are performed by the band’s young, talked-about singer John Bryan with sterling Grascals harmonies by the recognized voice of Terry Eldredge and the resonant baritone of Terry Smith. “Heartbreak Hall of Fame” is the most recent single from this band’s upcoming release that follows the success of their 2017 release, Before Breakfast.

Great musicians will always find a way to make good music, but for great musicians to make great music, they must form a bond – one that, more often than not, goes beyond the purely musical to the personal. For The Grascals, that bond has been forged at the intersection of personal friendships, shared professional resumes and an appreciation for the innovative mingling of bluegrass and country music that has been a hallmark of the Nashville scene for more than forty years. WEBSITE.

We don't feature that much traditional country music on Beehive Candy however 'Heartbreak Hall of Fame' has something special about it and works for me. I suppose the modern Bluegrass element is what does the trick for me, that and the superb musicianship that is impossible to ignore, and the characterful vocals.


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

Kidsmoke -  Rising Sun.

Welsh dream-pop outfit Kidsmoke share their urgent new single Rising Sun, the first from their upcoming album expected next year. The track is a pulsating psychedelic journey, spatially and sonically.

Produced by Bill Ryder-Jones and Russ Hayes, Rising Sun reveals a raw, driven and far-flung sound with an unwavering energy, with incorporating influences from My Bloody Valentine’s Suesfine. With lyrics of fortitude and resilience combined with dreamy vocals and harmonies, the band throwback to their indie heritage.

Both the music and lyrics showcase the strength of Kidsmoke’s sound: ‘The first two lines I wrote for Rising Sun were ‘I don’t want to follow’ and ‘I feel your love” describes frontman Lance Williams, ‘I wanted the song to be centred around those lyrics, so I started thinking about how they could be linked somehow. The song ended up being about pushing against what other people expect of you, even if that pressure is coming from the people you are closest to.’

The waves made by Kidsmoke’s shimmering brand of indie-pop do not stop in their native North Wales. With a sync-feature on Charlie Brooker’s Netflix series Black Mirror, they burst into 2018 with single Sister Sadness (named one of Steve Lamacq’s ‘6Music Recommends’ tracks of the year), were featured as The Sunday Times’ ‘Breaking Act’, supported Gaz Coombes and were invited by Robert Smith to play his Meltdown Festival in support of The Joy Formidable.

The band have spent the summer in the studio with long-time producer Russ Hayes, and recording with Bill Ryder-Jones, for their forthcoming debut album expected next year. TWITTER.

'Rising Sun' is our second song feature for Kidsmoke following on from 'Sister Sadness' which graced our pages back in February this year. This is more of a refreshing indie rocker musically, however the dream pop sensibilities are present through the melodic and engaging vocals and harmonies.

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

Henry Jamison - Boys.

Henry Jamison’s songcraft has been praised as being “written like the Great American Novel. He crafts his lyrics with metaphor, juxtaposition, and a certain poeticism resonant of vagabond folk heroes or members of the literary canon” (Billboard), and Henry will prove that to be true ten-fold on his upcoming album ‘Gloria Duplex’ (out Feb. 8, 2019 on Akira Records).

The new album, which was produced by Thomas Bartlett (Sufjan Stevens, The National), and features strings by Rob Moose (Bon Iver, Arcade Fire, Phoebe Bridgers) and mixing by Patrick Dillet (Rhye, David Byrne), creates a lush and enveloping environment for the Burlington, VT musical bard to hold a magnifying glass to the topic of masculinity in 2018.

Henry Jamison has just released “Boys” the second single from ‘Gloria Duplex’ which finds him exploring the ways in which boys are indoctrinated into one-dimensional men. “The crux of this song is contained in the line ‘we used to feel our rage just like the sea, now we get it on an installment plan” he explains.

“I'm talking about myself and I'm talking about the repression that many men unknowingly experience today, that is both a cause and a result of an insatiable drive to prove ourselves. What could our vital forces yield if we weren't taught to stem them off into needless power games almost from our first breath? I don't know, but I'm willing to guess that it wouldn't be the insane "race to the bottom" in which we're now engaged.”

Elsewhere on the album, Jamison can be found sitting in a boardwalk bar drinking whiskey while pondering emotional repression, reflecting on the socio-economic divide of our culture while watching a group of chummy, Ivy League students ride a train out of NYC, and detailing overt expressions of masculinity lived out through a game of Grand Theft Auto. FACEBOOK. 

It has been a while since we last featured Henry Jamison an artist who has consistently impressed Beehive Candy. The new single 'Boys' is gentle and gorgeous, with absorbing lyrics delivered with natural feeling, and the musical backdrop is soft and yet sublime.

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

Noctorum - Beans on Toast - Wovoka Gentle

Noctorum - Piccadilly Circus In The Rain.

Noctorum recently announced the impending release of their fourth album 'The Afterlife' - the duo's first long-play in seven years, which will be released exclusively on CD and gatefold vinyl to PledgeMusic contributors in November 2018. The general release of this album will happen in February 2019 via Schoolkids Records.

Noctorum is guitarist/singer-songwriter Marty Willson-Piper and producer Dare Mason. The duo present their new single 'Piccadilly Circus in the Rain', following up the first single 'A Girl With No Love'.

Named for the village Noctorum, located near to their childhood homes on The Wirral (near Liverpool), Dare and Marty liked its association with night and its Latin derivation. This collaboration has an eclectic focus, making the quiet loud and vice-versa, singing words that might be spoken and playing indoor instruments that should be heard outside. It has to be imagined to exist.

"Perhaps city-living is by definition a difficult slog - high rents, a constant pressure to earn, an uphill battle that traps you in a vicious circle that has you so focussed on the job of survival that your aspirations, your dreams, are swept aside, pushed out of reach as all your waking hours are spent treading water, your imagination drowning, your ideas lost in the rush hour," says Marty Willson-Piper.

"Piccadilly Circus In The Rain addresses the struggle and questions the romantic notion of London as a cultural melting pot - music, galleries, nightlife, history, energy, red double decker buses, unarmed friendly Bobbies, the cover of Abbey Road and the Queen. Singling out this city is purely coincidental but in truth, for most people with artistic tendencies "London brings you to your knees". WEBSITE.

'Piccadilly Circus In The Rain' explores the reality that London is not such a romantic and creative place to be as an artist. Having lived and worked there for many years in the past, I can see where this is coming from and can't really argue, the song itself is beautifully crafted and quite touching.

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

Beans on Toast - Alexa.

British folk/indie singer-songwriter Beans on Toast is debuting his new single and video for "Alexa." The track and it's accompanying animated video (created using discarded Amazon boxes) is a commentary/cautionary tale that examines the future of voice-activated Internet and oncoming Amazon world domination.

Kicking things off with this spoken interlude from Beans: “This one’s got an intro that goes “ALEXA play Beans on Toast... ALEXA” so nobody can listen to it on their Amazon Echo", the track is funny but thought-provoking-- one of Beans trademarks. "Alexa" appears his 10th studio album “A Bird In The Hand,” set for release on December 1st.

For "A Bird In The Hand," Beans got back in touch with Ben Lovett of Mumford & Sons, who had produced his first album a decade ago, and together they hatched a plan.

Utilizing the hospitality of Lovett (whose band were spending much of their time at London’s legendary Church Studios making their next record), Beans found himself enjoying the same incredible facilities during off days and late nights, to lay down "A Bird In Hand," along with with the help of in-house engineer, Riley MacIntyre.

Calling in mutual friends, Ben and Beans arranged a team of incredible musicians, including Mumford & Sons’ live drummer Chris Mass and Dutch artist Christof van der Ven on guitar. Ted Dwane offered bass on a couple of tracks, and Ben himself took up piano and production duties to bring a clear, contemporary, and unique vision to the Beans’ songs. The result is arguably Beans on Toast's finest album to date. The album is diverse, easily switching between folk ballads, punk bangers, and swing numbers without ever losing sight of itself or it's listener. WEBSITE.

'Alexa' is a gorgeous and timely song, with some sharp and witty lyrics that anyone familiar with voice activated web devices might quickly identify with. For those more cautious about allowing such devices into their lives then the song might put you off even more. Me, I'll just play around with other folk's Echoes, I'm still coming to terms with Hal in 2001 A Space Odyssey - "I'm sorry Dave - I can't do that".....


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

Wovoka Gentle -  Peculiar Form Of Sleep.

Following the release of the wonderfully titled single '1,000 Opera Singers Working in Starbucks', which was included in the official soundtrack of FIFA 19, London trio Wovoka Gentle have now shared new track 'Peculiar Form of Sleep', out now on Nude.

 "It’s something to do with that moment between being awake and asleep, where thoughts bleed into dreams and everything seems to make both no sense and perfect sense", the band says. "You’re sliding between these contrasting, dense passages that still feed off one another and congregate around some kind of narrative, which maybe is the whole narrative. The title is from an E.E. Cummings poem: ‘to exist being a peculiar form of sleep’.

Wovoka Gentle are an experimental three-piece from London, comprised of William Stokes and twins Imogen and Ellie Mason. Taking its root in folk and Americana songwritng, the Wovoka sound draws upon the psychedelic soundscapes of the late 60s as well as contemporary experimental, pop and collage music; marrying classic instrumentation with sampling, analogue synthesis and sound manipulation. WEBSITE.

Back in September we shared '1,000 Opera Singers Working In Starbucks' and described that track as "upbeat, creative and oozing charm, this is a touch quirky and a whole lot addictive". Now we can follow up with their new piece 'Peculiar Form Of Sleep' where the bands creative charm and knack for merging musical styles and instrumentation is all apparent again.

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

High South - Lightfoils - Talkboy - Gustave Tiger - Astari Nite - Neville & Sugary Staple - The Great Escape

High South - Change In The Wind.

Nashville’s High South dropped their Change in the Wind EP this past Friday. With impressive three-part harmonies (courtesy of vocalists Kevin Campos, Jamey Garner and Phoenix Mendoza), a dedication to songwriting and unwavering optimism, the Nashville-based band High South has developed a dedicated following across Europe, where they’ve been touring regularly since 2015.

Now they’re breaking into the American market with Change in the Wind, a captivating project that draws comparisons CSNY, Doobie Brothers and The Band.

High South teamed with producer Josh Leo, known for his work with Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Kim Carnes, engineer Niko Bolas (Neil Young, Warren Zevon), guitarist Jack Pearson (Allman Brothers Band), keyboard player Tony Harrell (Flying Burrito Brothers), drummer Nir Zidkyahu (Genesis) and singer Raul Malo (The Mavericks) to create the six tracks that make up Change in the Wind. WEBSITE.

High South may draw some notable comparisons with the likes of CSNY and others however this is not without merit. The E.P. 'Change In The Wind' exudes quality, whether it's the vocals and refined three part harmonies, or the musical arrangements that subtly add so much more. Timeless and classy, this is one of those beautiful collections of music to immerse yourself in.

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

Lightfoils - This Time Is Up.

 “This Time Is Up” is the euphoric second single that Chicago’s shoegaze band Lightfoils is sharing ahead of the release of their new album Chambers that’s coming out in a few weeks on 11/16.

“This Time Is Up” pairs frenetic beats with woozy guitars and rattling bass, outlining the breakup of a relationship with a dishonest partner. Anger is the main emotion, until the coda shifts to a slower denouement regarding things not said, or better left unsaid. The enthralling track follows the album’s first single “Summer Nights” (buy/stream), a densely layered, reverb-laden track with a calculated build-up. Formed in 2010, Lightfoils’ sound subtly stretches the auditory boundaries of shoegaze, honing in on a more cosmopolitan and ethereal sound.

Chambers is Lightfoils’ first album since 2014, and represents a band that has mastered the atmospheric tone they've become synonymous with and continue to occupy, almost a decade after formation. Songs like “Duende” sound like a surf rock wave rolling onto darker shores, with the rhythm section keeping an upbeat tempo, keeping one grounded, while the vocals and guitars provide a loss of gravitational control. Frontwoman Jane Zabeth Nicholson’s sublime vocal melodies and the bands’ subsequent sound are reminiscent of classic 90s indie rock that has a touch of grunge, and channels the softness of their shoegaze predecessors. WEBSITE.

We featured Lightfoils last month describing their material as "a combination of atmospheric shoegaze and lush dream pop". Now we have the second single 'This Time Is Up' a powerful and driving song where the music is intense and the vocals slower and melodic, it's an intriguing combination and it works.

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

Talkboy - Over & Under.

Building on the hype surrounding debut release Mother earlier this year, Leeds sextet Talkboy share their second shimmering offering Over And Under.

An explosive burst of anthemic rock, the band’s follow-up track showcases a whole new layer to their distinctive sound with intense harmonies and potent guitar work drawing further comparisons to indie heavyweights Alvvays and The Big Moon.

With momentum growing outside of their native Yorkshire following accomplished displays on the festival circuit and support slots alongside Our Girl and Bully, the six-piece look well-placed heading into a promising 2019 with two singles down and plenty new material to come.

Discussing Over And Under, guitarist Tim Malkin stated: It’s no secret that we all like a good party in Talkboy but personally, I increasingly get the feeling that I should be having way more fun than I am or that I should be way closer to the people around me than I am. I think that a lot of people go through the motions at social gatherings, to try and keep up appearances or whatever, whereas if they just let go of that kind of stuff they might have more meaningful relationships”. TWITTER.

Talkboy impressed us back in June and the new song 'Over & Under' is another feisty rocker, where momentum and power are superbly matched by some imaginative and addictive two part vocals.

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

Gustave Tiger - The Eternal Return.

The world the multiverse, if you will is eternal. The moment we call “here and now”is but a glimmer on the ocean of endless returns of this exact moment -and also returns of all imaginable and non-imaginable variations of this moment. There is no time as we normally think of it (as a linear movement), the billions of years that pass, they only seem to pass in our quotidian ignorant slumbers. The multiverse brings forever back this day and brings forth days in which in place of my right arm the Holy Trinity shines and I am quoting Spenser's unwritten sequel to the Faerie Queen. Our lives as we experience it are one thread of this fabric, the painted veil, the kaleidoscope -the circles, cycles, or, rather the spirals, the gyres stretch endlessly.A concert favourite of ours, we recorded the song during the summer.I wrote the lyrics after reading The Life of Milarepa.

Gustave Tiger are a Hungarian art punk band formed in 2013. Starting off as a power trio on their first EP, Mitanni Mares (2013), they were quickly joined by the brilliant lead singer Erika Szurcsik for the first LP, At The Idyll’s  End (2014). After touring with the album in Europe and an appearance at SXSW 2015, the band released their second album, Chaste and Mystic Tribadry in 2016. This year, the band released the Video single New Light of  Myanmar, which is a step towards the world of synthesized sound as well as a political statement against nation states.The band’s releases received outstanding reviews locally (best Hungarian album of 2014 and 2016 on  leading  portal  index.hu) and internationally, earning their song Sister Sybaritea feature on the Rough Trade compilation Counter Culture 15 in 2015, as well as radio airplay for the song Thermidor on BBC Radio 1 Scotland in  2017.

They were also invited to European festivals like Noordanpaunkin Iceland, FAMA  Film Festival in Swinoujscie Poland, MENT Showcase Festival in Ljubljana, amongst others. In  contrast to the ambitious production of the  studio recordings and the peculiar aesthetics of the music videos, the live shows are renowned for the immediacy and fire that brings punk t  life. Gustave Tiger has so far toured Europe (appearing in Reykjavik, Laugarbakki, London, Manchester, Liverpool, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Krakow and Warsaw as well as touring the Balkans) and started operations in the US (Los Angeles, San Antonio and Austin at the SXSW festival). Their new album will be released in early 2019. FACEBOOK.

'The Eternal Return' blasts into life as a full on punk rocker with such energy that it's no surprise the band insert a couple of melodic refrains in, otherwise the drummer particularly might suffer from exhaustion before the closing chords.

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

Astari Nite - Unfulfilled Promise.

Astari Nite is proud to show to the world their video for the song “Unfulfilled Promise." The track is included in the band’s most recent album and produced by Tom Shear (Assemblage 23). The video itself is fraught with meaning, reflecting the lyrics of the song that cover among others, depression and loneliness.

The video, directed by Ileana Escalante & Louis Molden of Blind Beast, features Astari Nite’s trademark aesthetic, haunting and melancholic, blended with surrealistic scenarios that tap into the psyche of someone who is confronting their demons, and dealing with the aftermath of loss and death.

"Sadness and depression comes in many shades and colors. If you can see it, stop and take the time to help. Smiling at someone, or a simple hello, can save a life." –Mychael.

The video, and the message it contains, comes at a time when the social spotlight is on the topics of depression and suicide, with several beloved musicians and iconic performers having taken their own lives in the last couple of years, it brings to light how many of the people we know and love in our daily lives deal with the despair that drives one to become destructive. Too often do we become aware after it is too late, after they are gone. TWITTER.

It's been a while since we featured Astari Nite, however 'Unfulfilled Promise' is not only a gorgeous and atmospheric song, it also carries a message worthy of consideration. The video captures the mood, as their mesmerising post punk with hints of Gothic music digs it's hooks in deep.


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

Neville & Sugary Staple - Way of Life.

Ska royalty Neville and Sugary Staple are have announced 'Way of Life' as the second single off their new 'Rude Rebels' LP. Released via Cleopatra Records, the album is now available on CD, as well as special clear vinyl with black and white splatter. This record comes in time for celebrations for the 40th Anniversary of 2Tone Records.

‘Rude Rebels’ is full of original upbeat music with vocal statements on life, fashion, love and morals, plus some smooth reggae vibes. It features brand new songs and recordings from Neville Staple, legendary singer and toaster of The Specials and co-founder of Fun Boy Three, and his partner-in-crime Sugary Staple, as well as former Specials' guitarist Roddy Radiation (a.k.a. Roddy Byers).

'Way of Life' features both Roddy Radiation and Ryu Every from Barbdwire. The original video was filmed by Tony Moore / Shelampsee Entertainment and the main feature video, animation & sync were performed by Steve Bowden.

With 2019 being the 40th Anniversary of The Specials and 2Tone Records, this is a timely release. This album follows Sugary Staple’s sold out 'Rudegirl Sounds’ EP and Neville Staple’s ‘Return of Judge Roughneck’ double album, also released via Cleopatra Records.

The Staples are a permanent fixture of the widely regarded and enormously active ska scene in the UK, performing regularly at both clubs and massive festivals. In the Neville Staple Band, who have been actively touring both at home and abroad, Sugary joins Neville Staple to front the band.

Sugary and Neville wrote and produced this rebel-lishious offering, alongside Tom Lowry (The Specials, Neville Staple, Spectrum) at Planet Studios in Coventry, which brings a super blend of punked up anthems, dancehall ska and sweet rebel reggae and bluebeat. BANDCAMP.

Described as Ska royalty Neville and Sugary Staple can hopefully live with that expression, it's not out of place as is demonstrated by 'Way of Life'. With 2Tone Records heading for their 40th anniversary I don't know whether to feel old or just feel pleased that music this good is still be produced and performed.


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

The Great Escape - All You Got Is Gold (Live And Acoustic In Venice Beach).

When you do the diggin' sometimes you just strike that "pay dirt", that rich vein, that golden, magical moment: LA's The Great Escape clearly knocked it out of the park with album's standout cut "All You Got Is Gold"- as it captures everything that makes this band so special.  Hearfealt, touching, and breathtakingly beautiful tune, Ingrid Andersson's powerful voice really shines over the epic arrangement her band-mates Kristian Nord and Malte Hagemeister came up with. 

A bonus treat is their stunningly sparse "Live & Acoustic in Venice Beach" version- the stripped down tune is certainly "goose bump material", crisply recorded in one golden take, one golden moment in Venice, CA.

Widely praised for their genre-smashing approach to song craft, The Great Escape is a three-piece band from Venice, CA, comprised of Kristian Nord (drums, bass, production), Malte Hagemeister (guitars, production), and Ingrid Andersson (vocals).  The band's second full-length "Universe In Bloom", released in 2017, saw them take the raw energy and stomping confidence of their self-titled debut to the next level with massive hooks and catchy tunes beyond genre that could have been recorded at any point in the last 50 years.

The band's eponymous, self-produced debut album came out in 2014 and received much critical acclaim. They are currently working on their third full-length, forthcoming in 2019.  The trio's latest single "All You Got Is Gold" is now available via all streaming-download partners. WEBSITE. 

'All You Got Is Gold' Live And Acoustic In Venice Beach is a fabulous version of the song and news of a third album should have plenty of folk pleased.


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

Melby - Jonathan Something

Melby - Overthinking.

Since debuting with catchy single Human early 2016 things have moved steady for Stockholm psych pop act Melby. Last year's debut EP received praise from both Swedish and international sources, making Melby one of the most exciting names on the Swedish indie scene. The band returned with Reject just before the summer, a summer which then saw tour dates in London and Berlin, as well as working on their upcoming debut album. New single Overthinking is yet another piece to the exciting puzzle that is Melby's music and another step in what is forming to be one very promising career. The new cut is out today via Stockholm label Rama Lama Records.

The band often gets comparison to fellow swedes Dungen and Amason but Melby’s dynamic sound, with influences from folk, psych, indie and pop, stand out. The quartets light, semi-psychedelic folk pop is led by Matilda Wiezell’s enchanting voice which fits perfectly with Melby’s unique musical landscape - a sound that's been called "otherworldly, and wholly brilliant" by The Line of Best Fit. The band consists of Wiezell, Are Engen Steinsholm (back-up vocals, guitar), David Jehrlander (bass) and Teo Jernkvist (drums) and formed while living together in a Stockholm shared housing.

Overthinking, the second single released this year, is just as its precursor Reject, a development of the band's already characteristic sound. This time, the band reflects a inner conflict, all leading up to the synth-driven chorus which just happens to be the perfect settings for your daydreams. Are, guitarist and author of the song, explains:

"It’s a really cute song, so cute that it almost feels a bit embarrassing to talk about the lyrics. However, they are basically a declaration of love to a person who is very important to me. But I also ended up writing nearly as much about myself. About my own mixture of hubris and bad self esteem, and that I have a hard time feeling sure about anything at all. Musically it’s probably also the cutest song we’ve ever made. I feel that the verses have a tiny bit of melancholy to them, but the choruses are just entirely cosy and warm."

The single is the second taste of the new, fresh material that the quartet's been working on since releasing their ambitious EP last year. A debut album is in the final stages and will be released next year. Overthinking is released October 30th on all platforms via Stockholm label Rama Lama Records (Steve Buscemi's Dreamy Eyes, Kluster, Chez Ali etc.). BANDCAMP.

We have featured Melby just once before back at the beginning of June with the song 'Reject' describing that track as "a fine indie song where psych vibes comfortably rub shoulders with moments of pop and folk rock". Now we have 'Overthinking' which really is another impressive piece where the rhythm is sprightly whilst the melodic vocals are slower. The combination works so well, this is catchy, original and quite lovable. 

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

Jonathan Something - Fine / Happy Day.

Hailing from Brooklyn, Connecticut (not to be confused with Brooklyn, New York), Jonathan Something is the musical project of writer, producer and multi-instrumentalist, Jon Searles. His first single 'Outlandish Poetica' (released in May of this year) was a rather cheery depiction of a surreal nightmare in which Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird and the 86' All Star basketball team inexplicably ambush Jonathan Something, brutally beating him and robbing him of his money.

His second single 'Fine' demonstrates the genius in Jonathan Something's songwriting and, more specifically, his use of contrast and differentiation when it comes to surface and substance. On first listen, 'Fine' is classically reminiscent of upbeat, feel-good and catchy Van Morrison, Buddy Holly and even The Band. Lasting only 1:57 in length, the chorus is simple and addictive with a strong feeling of warmth and familiarity.

The most astounding part of the Searles' songwriting occurs when you contrast the shiny and memorable surface of the track against the sincerity and seriousness of the lyrics. While on the verge of panic, Searles contemplates his purpose and meaning after finishing school: He doesn't just want to become another "extraordinary asshole with a bachelor's degree". Searles draws attention to our ability as humans to keep fear, anxiety and existential angst well hidden behind shiny bravado, not only from those closest to us, but from the world at large.

His incredible third single 'Happy Day' is also part of his debut album Outlandish Poetica. Much like the previous single and the album at large, 'Happy Day' is a song of alluring disparity. On the one hand, is the bright and shiny surface: The self-assured bravado of the guitar, the unwavering conviction of the drums and the certainty of a relentlessly hammering piano. And it's misleading. On purpose. Because it's intended to contrast and elevate the significance of what's really going. That over time, JS' believes his confidence will inevitably dissolve. And what you begin to hear is the fear that at any moment, despite how bright and shiny things may appear, he could slip into an unexplained and unannounced sadness. JS' intention is to highlight that depression, anxiety and mental disorders at large are not something that can be resolved once and never return. They recur. Often and unexpectedly. Mental health ebbs and flows. There are hills and valleys. And it's his beautiful, honest songwriting that is his means of conveyance. The new album is due in November. BANDCAMP.

We featured Jonathan Something's first single (Outlandish Poetica) back in May and ahead of his imminent new album release thought we would play catch up and share the other two singles 'Fine' and 'Happy Day' (that and the fact we received the album plus instrumental versions, and kinda thought we ought to).

Seriously though, Jonathon Something has the knack for creating vibrant, story telling songs that both intrigue, resonate mentally and charm. There is never a dull moment across all nine tracks, the musical arrangements are clear, pristine and whilst the lyrics are engaging and thought provoking enough in their own right, the musical hooks are in constant flow.



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

Blushing - Karla Kane - Ead Wood - The Belafontes

Blushing - The Truth / Sunshine.

Comprised of two tightly knit husband and wife teams, Austin-based band Blushing originated in the summer of 2015 after vocalist and guitarist Michelle Soto shared her songs with long-time friend and classically trained vocalist Christina Carmona. Picking up the bass, Carmona helped to fully flesh out tracks and the two incorporated their husbands Jake Soto on drums and Noe Carmona on lead guitar. 

With an unwavering passion audible and visible in both their recordings and their live performances, Blushing's individual and underlying strengths elevate the band to proficient proportions while simultaneously maintaining a strong coherence and vision as a unit. Blushing draws on a multitude of diverse influences, arriving somewhere between the rough-edged and atmospheric tones of Lush and the sweet clarity of The Sundays. Their debut EP "Tether" was self-released in 2017, followed by their EP "Weak" on Austin Town Hall Records in January of 2018. Gaining infectious momentum, Blushing have since been asked to play Athens Pop Fest and have shared stages with the likes of La Luz, Broncho, The Veldt, Sunflower Bean and Snail Mail.

Blushing has announced the release of their upcoming single "The Truth", released on October 26th, both digitally and on 7" colored vinyl via The Nothing Song Records. Recorded, mixed and produced by Elliott Frazier of Ringo Deathstarr, both "The Truth" and "Sunshine" showcase a creative growth in the band's expansive, cascading sound laden with ethereal vocals and fervent guitar. Blushing's capacity to harness emotional and melodic space combined with searing, crunchy instrumentals lends to their steadfast confidence in creating an immersive and distinct soundscape. Their single comes ahead of their full length slated to be released in early 2019.

"The Truth" will also mark as the debut release from The Nothing Song Records, formed by Austin Chronicle Music Awards-winning booker and promoter Trish Connelly. Since its initiation in 2015, The Nothing Song has held a reputation for curating events showcasing both touring and local bands as well as encompassing collaborative art mediums. Continuing to offer a curatorial platform geared towards evoking an emotional and personal experience for each individual listener, the label envisions a roster that ties together an artist's capability for an all encompassing aesthetic with a focus on carefully crafted and tangible products. WEBSITE.

Gently powering up 'The Truth' bursts into life as an expansive dream pop piece with some shoegaze overtones as the band vary the energy levels. Melodic vocals and harmonies round the song off and add even more to this gorgeous roller-coaster of a song. 'Sunshine' is both atmospheric and quite blissful, there is a hint or two of the Cocteau Twins, see that as a positive comparison and enjoy.  


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

Karla Kane - Goodguy Sun.

The upcoming single from Karla Kane, “Goodguy Sun,” paints a wistful classic-pop picture that encapsulates the feelings of summer giving way to autumn. Written by DIY pop master Martin Newell (Cleaners From Venus), it’s a mix of California sunshine and English melancholy, as befitting its transatlantic origins. The song is being released in conjunction with the autumn issue of Big Stir Magazine (in which Kane interviews both Newell and Robyn Hitchcock) and its monthly Burbank concert series.

Kane and Newell (one of her musical heroes) have worked together in the past. He performed vocals on her debut solo release, King’s Daughters Home For Incurables, and the two have shared the stage several times in England. “He sent me his demo of the song and said he thought it might suit me. Well, when your songwriting idol says that, you take notice!” Kane explains. She quickly recorded the track in California with a backing band including both frequent and first-time collaborators (Khoi Huynh, KC Bowman, Bradley Skaught, Gina Sperinde). Newell’s acclaimed album The Greatest Living Englishman was recently released on vinyl to celebrate its 25th anniversary and a new album, Life in a Time Machine, is imminent.

“Goodguy Sun” is dreamy, enchanting and full of golden autumn light. With Kane’s vocals soaring between rolling fields of ukulele, piano and heavenly harmonies, it’s a perfect fall soundtrack no matter the weather.

Karla Kane is best known as the lead singer/songwriter/ukulele player for California band the Corner Laughers. They have released four acclaimed albums, plus two more with the side project Agony Aunts. Her well-regarded solo debut, King’s Daughters Home For Incurables, was released in 2017 on Mystery Lawn Music/Gare du Nord. Kane has performed alongside members of Fountains of Wayne, The Soft Boys, Martin Newell, Hungrytown, and Allen Clapp (The Orange Peels). Her music has been featured in retail stores including Old Navy, Victoria’s Secret and American Eagle and played on the BBC, CBC and radio stations throughout the U.S. and internationally. Kane has received multiple awards including Twirl Radio’s Twirly Award for album of the year 2009/10 and runners-up in 2012 and 2015 and for best songwriting in 2017, and best album of the year (2015) in Discussions Magazine and Goldmine Magazine. TWITTER.

'Goodguy Sun' is a wistful pop song with bags of character and something of a timeless pop classic vibe coursing throughout. Catchy, melodic and feel good, that's plenty enough to be going on with!

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

Ead Wood - Oceans.

Ead Wood (aka Ed Soles) & The Heights returns with surf-grunge heavyweight Oceans, the second single taken from his debut EP Beige Dreams. Exploring a different sound to that of previous jangle-pop track Ignored, Ead Wood demonstrates his dynamic power over guitar-pop.

The track was conceived during an attempt to make a pumpkin pie in his home in Bristol whilst Ed’s thoughts were “all over the place – A lot of change was going on in my life and my head was such a jumble that I kept forgetting ingredients.” The result was an “inedible, salty pumpkin pie” but a song that perfectly captures a tumultuous time of life.

His collaboration with South London band Margot as The Heights produces truly DIY music. The whole EP has been recorded in drummer Ben Andrewes’ own space, fitting around everyone’s day jobs – whilst Ed has created all of the artwork himself.

The track is influenced by Ed’s admiration of Dinosaur Jr, combined with his love for ‘quirks’ such as Mac Demarco. He references a lyric of one of his biggest influences Pavement’s Cream of Gold in his EP title Beige Dreams. ‘Oceans’ is the second single from Ead Wood’s upcoming EP Beige Dreams – available 9th November. BANDCAMP.

If surf grunge requires a benchmark then 'Oceans' is a fine place to begin. Just to confuse matters there is also a hint of all psychedelic rock, which just makes this fabulous song, all the more richer.

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

The Belafontes - Gemini.

Gemini is a back and forth song between two lovers. Born out of Jess and Paul’s late night antics  when they first met, the pair sing about staying up all night and being in awe of each  other.  The  chorus chant of "Delinquents" imagines them on the run from the law a-la Christian Slater and  Patricia Arquette in True Romance.

The sentiments of two fugitives in love, not caring anymore embodies the start of a great  relationship  –  nothing else matters anymore when you’re in love. The lo-fi production values echo  The Belafontes live show, it’s loud, it’s distorted and it’s catchy as hell. The stereo rhythm guitars  back and forth in the verse mirrors the couple singing to each other, while fuzzed out lead  lines  and  four to the floor drums in the chorus are meant to get you to your feet or get you to the beach.  

Paul and Jess are a couple that make music under the moniker The Belafontes. To capture their  authenticity they have strived to have as little outside input as possible on their latest  recordings.  Driven by a desire to showcase their unique lo-fi sound Paul has spent the last 12 months teaching  himself to record, mix and produce The Belafonte's music himself. Every rehearsal, recording,  song  and artwork is created in Paul and Jess' Elsternwick apartment. In doing so, they have managed to  preserve a sound and aesthetic that is truly their own.   

It’s been a big year for the pair. Jess expanded on her role as lead singer and taught herself to stand  up and play drums while performing. Their recent releases have gained international  audiences  since ending up on the coveted Spotify Fresh Finds playlist. Triple J and Triple J Unearthed have  supported both their 2018 releases and they have also been able to share their work with their  hardworking pals on community radio stations as well. FACEBOOK.

Feisty and gorgeous dual vocals and a rock and roll arrangement that packs a punch ensures that 'Gemini' registers immediately.  With a few timeless pop sensibilities thrown in for good measure, this is very catchy, and some...

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