Weekend Wonders: Rome Is Not A Town - Billy The Zombie Kid - The Velveteins - OhBoy! - Billy T Band - Varick

Rome Is Not A Town - Blood And Secrets.

Background - 4 piece Gothenburg, Sweden unit Rome Is Not A Town released their debut 7” “Stupid” in late 2015. With their noisy postpunk they soon found a special place in the hearts of everyone with a fondness for cracking guitars and some furious drum beating. Swedish media got excited and the biggest ones such as Festivalrykten, Hymn and Gaffa soon compared them Sonic Youth. As a match made in heaven Rome Is Not A Town got the chance to tour a few dates with the Thurston Moore band soon there after.

Since that initial success the band’s been on tour with fellow label mates Tiger Lou in Sweden and Germany as well as recording a new EP, "Careful Like You Cared" with Per Stålberg (Division of Laura Lee) in Welfare Studios, Gothenburg. The EP consists of four brand new tracks, and six minute masterpiece “Blood and Secrets” as a b-side. All released by Startracks – home of Fireside, early Refused and so on. Guitars go in the family, they say. Facebook here.

'Blood And Secrets' rounds off the new EP in style. The four new tracks are consistently good, with a consistent and definitive sound throughout, in what for me is a mixture of alt rock, indie rock and some delightful post punk moments. Good stuff !!!

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Billy The Zombie Kid - Are You Dying Just Like Me?

Background - Billy The Zombie Kid is an alternative pop/rock band from Borlänge, Sweden. Billy the zombie kid started as a no name solo project by lead singer & guitarist Stefan Altzar back in 2013. He had written a bunch of songs containing a unique mix of pop, rock and electronic elements, and to be able to take the songs from digital format out to the live stage, Stefan began putting a real band together. His longtime friend, Janne Korpela, joined the band on guitar.

They had been playing together in several different bands for many years, so it was an easy decision to make. The band also needed someone that could play keys, and that's where Max Björk came to be the perfect fit. Being a diverse musician, Max became a great asset to the band, not only as an instrumentalist, but also as a contributor to the vocal department. Finally, the band needed someone who could bring all of the computer programmed beats to life. Stefan reached out to Fredrik Olsson, who he knew from previous collaborations, and Fredrik was more than happy to join the band as the drummer, and also as a backup vocalist.

Their music was well received by the online community, and during the spring and summer of 2014 the band played several live shows and festivals around their hometown. During the fall of 2014, the idea of creating a full length album occurred, and that became the band's main focus. New songs were composed, and old songs were rearranged, and during the spring of 2015 the recording process began. From September 2015 until april 2016 videos and singles were released and in August the album “We’re always right” was finally released by the label Alternative Alien Baby. Website here and Facebook here.

The video for 'Are You Dying Just Like Me?' is something of a mini epic, which is just right for what is, a very impressive piece. More rock than pop, the band mix strong vocals with soaring guitars and a solid thumping beat that pushes the song along. Ones to watch out for.

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The Velveteins - Don't Yah Feel Better?

Background - The first single off of The Velveteins' debut LP Slow Wave is Don't Yah Feel Better?

Hailing from sunny Edmonton, Canada, The Velveteins are a rock 'n' roll band consisting of primary songwriters Spencer Morphy (vocals, guitar) and Addison Hiller (percussion). Their latest work 'A Hot Second With The Velveteins' was produced by Lincoln Parish (Cage The Elephant) and has been described as "... a collision of the Kinks and the Libertines, rollicking  garage, moody surf [...and] pop classicism with a rough edge". The single is coming ahead of their debut full-length Slow Wave, which they are releasing with Fierce Panda Canada in 2017.

“I had been listening to a lot of traditional Indian music and i think that’s where the guitar melody came from. After the music had appeared so easily I decided to write the lyrics about how everything you need is there, you just have to stop and listen for it.” - The Velveteins. Facebook here.

It was back in May that we first came across The Velveteins, and it is without hesitation that the new song 'Don't Yah Feel Better?' gets a feature! The band craft music that mixes genre styles that makes the most of the rock'n'roll spectrum. Looking forward to the debut album.

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OhBoy! - Dirt.

Background - This week Northampton 5-piece OhBoy! released the video for “Dirt” the B-side to a new single. It follows up on "Hey Princess." Both tracks are out now via Canvasclub (US) and Alcopop (UK).

Hailing from "a town that was once known the world over for being the home of British shoe manufacturing (the local football team is still know as The Cobblers),” OhBoy spent much of summer '16 on the road, playing Truck Festival Camden Rocks, The Great Escape, and the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury. Fans include Steve Lamacq, Huw Stephens and John Kennedy.

Website here and Facebook here.

'Dirt' is a feisty indie rock song that as B sides go, makes a wonderful A side (if you get my point). I'm not sure about the videos, elephant in the room, but the song is just right.

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Billy T Band - Reckoning

Background - Billy T Band's 4th album "Reckoning" is out on CD, streaming and download (LP in March 2017). It’s filled with more of Billy T’s blues drenched rock ‘n’ soul. According to Billy T himself it’s the band’s best effort yet!

Their 3rd release won the Norwegian Grammy “Spellemannprisen 2012" for the best blues album. ”L.OV.E. (just a silly notion)” (released in 2010) also received Norwegian Grammy “Spellemannprisen 2010" for the best blues album. All of Billy T Band’s releases are filled with songs steeped in Classic American Soul, Blues, R&B and Swamp Rock. It’s a mix of original songs written by Billy T and the band and a few cover versions of obscure nuggets from Billy T’s ”wasted youth” as a hippie in Upstate New York. 

Bill was born and raised in New York City, and played and recorded with Eddie ”Bluesman” Kirkland for 12 years, and the Tom Russell Band for 10 years. Along the way, he worked with such diverse artists as Lightning Hopkins and Nancy Griffith. After moving to Oslo Norway in 1997, Billy T ran the house band at the ”Muddy Waters” blues club for 7 years, helping to launch the young Norwegian talents Amund Maarud and Chris "Kid" Andersen (now with Rick Estrin & the Nightcats). Website here and Facebook here.

Title track and the first of ten on the new album 'Reckoning' is a very good example of the quality you can expect throughout. Melody plays a big part ensuring a whole load of hooks along the way. Mixing guitar driven blues and rock, fine vocals and remarkable harmonies, Billy T is right to be pleased with the result of the obvious effort put into the album, it's a good one and deserves to be noticed when released.

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Varick - Illusions.

Background - Varick has shared a video for his track "Illusions". The video was directed by Shomi Patwary (The Weeknd, Mark Ronson, A$AP Rocky) and stars actress Judy Sabin.

Keith Varick has been interested in ancient spiritual teachings since he was in his youth. These philosophies introduced Varick to meditation, oneness and enlightenment. When Varick started writing songs he found himself writing about these themes subconsciously. Varick began modernizing these ideas, by using his own experiences, to create songs that express the philosophies of non-duality, Hinduism and Advaita. Varick moved to NYC to develop his music and teamed up with producer David Sisko to release his first EP “Boundless”. 

The single “Boundless’ was included in print and online in ‘Under the Radar Magazine’ and also in their quarterly download mixtape. “We All Know the Rest” the second single off the ‘Boundless’ EP was included in CMJ’s monthly mixtape. Varick’s full album ‘Veda I’ is out now, with second album ‘Veda II’ out early next year. Website here and Facebook here.

There is a haunting vibe running through 'Illusions', a song full of atmosphere and depth. The video matches the layered sounds, and highlights the sense of angst and feeling that the song delivers.

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Six Of The Best: Sloucher - Essie - Hawk - The Blue Aeroplanes - Four Star Riot - Sleepytown

Sloucher - Waiting to Start.

Background - Like a lot of bands, Sloucher started off as a relatively unambitious project. After writing a batch of songs on acoustic guitar to sate his downtime as drummer in a couple of revered West Coast bands Cayucas and Hibou. Jay Clancy decided to better harness the melodic thrusts bouncing around his head, eventually recruiting guitarist Kyle Musselwhite (The Globes) and drummer Jack Hamrick to solidify Sloucher as a trio.

“The record really started as me testing myself to see if I could actually complete an entire record of my own songs,” explains Clancy, who recorded most of the EP himself. “I had written a batch of songs that were all basically little snapshots of my life from the past few years, and wanted to get involved in a recording project.”

Certainty, the resultant collection of seven songs, deals in the kind of melodic interplay typically found in the more voluminous aural panoramas of Elliott Smith and similarly alchemic songwriters. Clancy’s heart-wrenching diatribes include the moody haze of “Dreams,” a tune resplendent in subtle time changes and plodding pocket-rhythms while Clancy’s voice assumes an apparition’s timbre to fit the vibe of the moony tune.

Perhaps in defiance of the band’s slacker-y moniker (I have questionable posture sitting down,” jokes Clancy), songs like “Certainty” excel in the pop-perfect guitar rock of forebearers like Evan Dando and Jeff Tweedy, with Clancy’s thinly veiled affinity for twangy country riffs rearing its pretty head. The symbiosis of the trio’s talents is most evident here, with Musselwhite’s lead giving wings to a saccharine-sweet love song bursting with mildly distorted guitars, providing a fitting Northwest attitude even when the sentiment is a tad gooey. Facebook here.

The first of seven tracks on the new EP and 'Waiting to Start' immediately signals that some natural and engaging alt rock is on it's way. As a whole its totally unpretentious, occasionally a little gritty, and often melodic, with a few country rock vibes sneaking in here and there.

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Essie - Electric Wires.

Background - Essie is the new dreamy indie/pop solo project from Melbourne based singer/songwriter, Jess Holt. A strong pop sensibility infused with lush, sultry vocals, oodles of shimmering melodic hooks, playful synths and hints of 80’s nostalgia will lure you into a deep ocean of indie-pop soundscape.

The debut track ‘Electric Wires’, reflects on Jess’ frequent travels and desire to always be on the move experiencing new environments and her fascination with meeting new people. It’s about the people you meet on the journey that make you see the world in a different way and keep things new and exciting. Crafted with London-based producer Dan Villalobos, the track is drenched with subtle, spacey electronics, moody synths and layers of luscious ethereal vocals. Elements of sparkly glockenspiel and marimba breathe light into the song and highlight Jess’ enchanting lyrical storytelling.

“When writing, a song usually grabs hold of me and my subconscious takes over. Sometimes it’s a very therapeutic process, other times it can be a little daunting to really address those deepest inner thoughts. I get bored pretty easily so creating something that is unique to each song is really important to me”.

The single artwork was designed by acclaimed singer/songwriter and visual artist, Bertie Blackman. “I was first introduced to Bertie’s artwork at her recent solo exhibition in Melbourne. I fell in love with the way her drawings told such beautiful quirky stories and thought it would act as a nice accompaniment to ‘Electric Wires’. It was the perfect collaboration as Bertie’s exhibition also incorporated a lot of ‘electric’ symbolism,” says Jess on the artistic collaboration.

Having spent much time writing and recording in the UK over the past couple of years, Essie has big plans to release a debut EP in 2017. Essie launches her new project and single ‘Electric Wires’ in Melbourne on Wed 14th Dec at The Grace Darling Hotel. Website here and Facebook here.

'Electric Wires' has an intricate and superbly produced soundtrack, providing a wonderful background for Essie to sing above, something she does with style, adding so much more to an already fine musical arrangement.

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Hawk - Mother Road.

Background - Hawk is a project from David Hawkins who is also known from his other band Be. Hawk has re-released a remastered version of their fantastic album I'm On Fire. The re-release is because the feeling is the album could be a potential future classic, and also that it will continue to find its audience and build further anticipation for what Hawk does next.

In addition to the alt-country, rootsy grit of Be, Hawk heavies up the proceedings by adding in a dose of garage rock (plus shades of classic Rolling Stones and even a bit of early-AC/DC riffage).

Also worth noting, David is in the planning stages of the next Hawk album (which could arrive as early as next year) that is confirmed to feature legendary guests such as Gary Louris of The Jayhawks, Ken Stringfellow (The Posies, R.E.M., Big Star) and longtime Elvis Costello drummer Pete Thomas. Website here. Bandcamp here.

First of twelve tracks on the album 'Mother Road' typifies the rock'n'roll swagger and blistering guitar playing on the remastered 'I'm On Fire' album. Vocals are energised and work well with this genre. Whether this is a "potential future classic" who knows, it is however most definitely a decent rootsy collection of rock songs, delivered with passion.

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The Blue Aeroplanes - Here Is The Heart Of All Wild Things.

Background - The Blue Aeroplanes' unique amalgam of rock, folk, poetry, punk, dance and art has been an acknowledged influence on a wide range of bands including REM and Radiohead. Combining pop smarts with serious weirdness, they have released almost thirty albums on various labels, several of which have charted in the UK Top 40 and the US Alternative Top 10.

Their new album 'Welcome Stranger' is out January 6th 2017 and now you can check out their new video below. Website here.

The Blue Aeroplanes are also setting out on tour in January 2017, traveling across the UK. View the full dates below:

Liverpool O2 Academy 2 Liverpool Wed, 11/01/17
Manchester Manchester Ruby Lounge Thu, 12/01/17
Newcastle O2 Academy 2 Newcastle Fri, 13/01/17
Edinburgh Voodoo Rooms Sat, 14/01/17
Glasgow Stereo, Glasgow Sun, 15/01/17
Nottingham Nottingham Rescue Rooms Wed, 18/01/17
London O2 Academy Islington Sat, 21/01/17
Oxford The Cellar Wed, 25/01/17
Sheffield Sheffield Leadmill Thu, 26/01/17
Norwich Norwich Arts Centre Fri, 27/01/17
Brighton Patterns Sat, 28/01/17
Exeter The Cavern, Exeter Sun, 29/01/17

With a new album just a month away, The Blue Aeroplanes are back, and the featured song 'Here Is The Heart Of All Wild Things' suggests the band are on form and still creating top notch music. I love the vocals and harmonies, and the crisp musical delivery is spot on!

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Four Star Riot - Empty Space.

Background - Four Star Riot shares a new video this week for the song "Empty Space". It's an animated tongue-in-cheek trip through space, as surreal as real life in 2016. Last month, the band released a beautifully cinematic and vivid short for the track "So Far."

It’s been a landmark year for the Tampa Bay rockers; on the heels of their hit single “Something So Right" landing a spot in the box office hit Deadpool, they released the full length album Waves on September 2nd, 2016 via Vital Records (digital/CD). Over the course of multiple releases, Four Star Riot has consistently delivered stick-in-your-head pop/rock choruses and Waves is by far their strongest effort to date.

Website here and Facebook page here.

'Empty Space' has a chunky and  funky feel to it, right from the beginning. Add in the guitar and vocal mix and we have another great song from the bands recent release.

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Sleepytown - Balloon.

Background - Sleepytown is the moniker of Ryan Van Der Woude, and a cruisey-nostalgic fusion of echoing guitars with a warm acoustic rhythm undertone, which flow from a plateau for literary anecdotes. Ryan is a songwriter who has travelled through all the east coast collecting visual novels, before settling in Sydney. His songs have bloomed from the wake of hinterland cruises, towering cities, cutting through mountain-ranges in a train, laying under snowy pines, warm sandy shores and treks into the deep, eerie woods.

‘Balloon’ is the latest offering from Sleepytown. ‘Balloon’ has a simple ideology attached to it; it’s a breakup song about two individuals who have an amalgamated feeling to depart each other in a non-destructive sense (as easy as letting go of a balloon). “The season of late winter and a transition into spring is the essence I tried to blend into the song and it’s the feeling I get when I listen back to it,” says Ryan on writing the new single. “‘Balloon’ was a very easy song to write as it literally just fell out of my brain in such a short space of time. I wrote and recorded most of Balloon in the same day, in the late winter season.”

‘Balloon’ was recorded in Ryan’s apartment in Lane Cove, Sydney; in his bedroom recording studio. Ryan recorded all instruments and tracks himself and mixed the tracks himself.

While undertaking music studies in Brisbane, Ryan has been involved in various bands and music projects. Sleepytown started while Ryan moved back to the Sunshine Coast after his studies in Brisbane and evolved from the laid back beach town lifestyle in that area. After meeting various people and moving to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane – Ryan landed in Sydney to take the project seriously and begin working on developing the sound into something much bigger.

Look out for new Sleepytown shows throughout Sydney announced to-be-announced in early-2017. “Balloon” will be released 9th of December 2016. Facebook here.

'Balloon' is one of those songs that just builds and builds. Vocals are pretty dominant and delightfully melodic, however the stripped back acoustic accompaniment keeps driving the song along, until a more rounded soundtrack unfolds making this one stand out song.

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Genre Wander: Cairobi - Daniel Wiggins - Sounds of Sputnik - Surf Rock is Dead

Cairobi - Saint.

Background - Cairobi are a headily eclectic globe-crossing fourpiece of Giorgio Poti (vocals, guitars), Alessandro Marrosu (bass), Salvador Garza (keys) and Aurelien Bernard (drums). Their sound reflects their various backgrounds with a unique multi-cultural twist.

Their debut self-produced album was written in Berlin and, fittingly with their diverse nationalities, was recorded between Berlin, London, Rome and New York. Music and this resulting album was Giorgio’s means of finding his way through health problems, as after relocating to Berlin, he started to suffer frequent, violent migraines that would incapacitate him for an average of twelve days a month.

“I could either stay still, in silence, eyes shut, or take the medication and hope it worked so I could move on with my day,” he recalls. “Even when the medicine worked, it would make me extremely sleepy, so some of the music and lyrics on this record were written in a state of drowsiness. That part wasn’t particularly fun, but maybe it helped me get rid of some filters. Luckily, the headaches stopped after about a year.” Website here and Facebook here.

Swirling guitars and chanting vocals are surrounded by some kind of oriental psychedelic blanket, making 'Saint' a very unique and rather addictive song.

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Daniel Wiggins - Summer Rain.

Background - Daniel Wiggins is a guitarist, vocalist, composer and producer from Perth, Western Australia. With an eclectic musical taste and background, Daniel’s music draws influence from progressive rock, pop, folk and jazz. His repertoire includes both vocally driven and instrumental pieces, specialising in the atmospheric and the visually evocative. Wiggins’ music has often been described as having a cinematic quality and a sense of narrative.

Daniel Wiggins’ first single ‘Summer Rain’ features long-time collaborator, Drew James Griffiths (Ur Draugr, Asphodel Creative) on backing vocals, as well as mixing and mastering duties. Ben Mazzarol (Chaos Divine) lends his impeccable drumming, while Daniel’s father, Mark Wiggins (Dilip ‘n the Davs) supplies the bass guitar. It was recorded primarily in home studios, with the drums being recorded by Brody Simpson at Underground Studios in Perth.

“I have been incredibly fortunate in being able to work with some astounding talent on this track, and the EP as a whole. ‘Summer Rain’ might be the best representation of my intent as an artist – an amalgamation of many influences and experiences that have shaped me since birth. I feel incredibly blessed that people now have the opportunity to hear the music that has been echoing within my bedroom walls for some time, and perhaps someone will enjoy it!”

‘Summer Rain’ demonstrates Wiggins’ effortless melding of melancholic balladry with progressive rock sophistication. Driven by the rich chords of the acoustic guitar, as well as Daniel’s characteristically soulful vocal delivery, the track is a rich tapestry of texture and melody. Its narrative follows the deterioration of a personal relationship, a longing for the changing season and the embracing of the self. “Summer Rain” will be released 9th of December 2016. Facebook here.

Daniel Wiggins gentle and soothing vocal delivery is just right for a song like 'Summer Rain'. One of those songs that builds as it goes, the instrumentation is very well crafted, it's just the genre that's hard to pin down. Folk, alt rock and everywhere in between I suppose.

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Sounds of Sputnik - New Born Remixed.

Background - Moscow’s Sounds of Sputnik has announced they will release their new ‘New Born Remixed’ EP via Emerald & Doreen Recordings. Surrounding tracks co-written, produced, and recorded by Canadian-Ukrainian dreampop duo Ummagma, these tracks also feature stellar vocals from Ummagma’s Shauna McLarnon and Alexander Kretov.

Rooted in a shared love of melodic dream pop and shoegaze with a taste of the 80s-90s, Sounds of Sputnik has teamed up with the German label to bring the bands' influences – from Lush, Curve, Cocteau Twins and My Bloody Valentine, Jesus & Mary Chain – into familiar Emerald & Doreen disco & synth wave territory. The result is an unlikely, unfathomable but always brilliant “dream house disco noise experience" for the more adventurous listener.

Earlier this year, Sounds of Sputnik re-released their debut LP 'New Born' feat. Ummagma through hallmark U.S. shoegaze label Moon Sounds Records. Showcasing a palette of clever guitar lines, powerful drums, lush bass and gossamer female vocals, it also features Graham Bonnar (Swervedriver/ Brian Jonestown Massacre), psych rock producer Fran Ashcroft (Damon Albarn, Lords of Acid), Russian producers Morozov and Oleg Mezherovsky, and Brazil’s Mind Movies.

Fronted by Roman Kalitkin, Sounds of Sputnik now includes Oleg Mezherovsky, Oleg Luzhetsky, Dmitriy Bobrinev, Anastasia Berezovskaya, and Almaz Gaifutdinov. Now based in Canada, Ummagma collaborated with Kalitkin while living in Moscow circa 2004 and reunited with him after a decade of living in Ukraine. Their collaborative project went into overtime when military conflicts began between the two countries, as a decisive and loud symbolic act of cross-border comradeship.

In 2014, Sounds of Sputnik received a Jagermeister Indie Music Award, the highest music prize in Russia, and claimed Best East European Video at the 2014 Independent Music Video Awards in Australia. 'New Born' also remained in CMJ's American College Radio Charts for a massive 7 weeks, the first time this has been achieved by a Russian indie artist.

'New Born Remixed' will be released digitally on December 9 by Emerald & Doreen Recordings, which is run by avid audiophile vinyl-loving DJs and whose motto is "we release nice songs and great remixers. Genres do not matter, only awe-inspringity counts". Bandcamp here and Facebook here.

'New Born Remixed' is a fabulous collection of music, redefined and artistically reworked, just dive in and enjoy an incredible audio feast.

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Surf Rock is Dead - In Between.

Background - "Hailing from Chicago and Australia and currently on tour with Jezabels, Kevin Pariso and Joel Witenberg -- who go by the band name Surf Rock Is Dead -- are set to make a splash with new single "In Between".

“It’s a song about going back to where you’re from and not feeling like you belong anymore yet not feeling perfectly in place where you currently are," says Pariso.

With it's high-reverb guitar riffs that resemble the rolling waves and a sad undertone to the lyrics, "In Between" embodies the beachiness of their namesake's genre through a new-wave filter. Website here and Facebook here.

Upcoming Tour Dates w/ The Jezebels:
Dec 01 @ Music Hall Of Williamsburg - Brooklyn NY
Dec 03 @ World Cafe Live - Philadelphia, PA
Dec 05 @ Rock & Roll Hotel - Washington, DC.

'In Between' is a silky flowing and beautiful surf pop meets shoegaze piece, that is most insistent on being played again.

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Midweek Muse: Super Paradise - Beatrix Players - Stella Rio - Golden Daze

Super Paradise - The F.C.

Background - Born in Milan, and now based in London, Super Paradise have just burst onto the garage scene in the UK with their debut album Quencebo: twenty minutes of high-octane rotary psych, both frenetic and melodious fusing the genres of garage, synth pop and psychedelia.

Originally written and recorded by lead singer and guitarist Francesco Roma in his hometown, Milan, the record sees the collaboration of Nico Spreafico on backing vocals and now as guitarist in the live line-up. Since moving to the UK, they inspired keyboardist Juliet Styles and drummer Bradley Smith to join to create the full line up.

Building on the edgy energy of Thee Oh Sees, the rough sounds of Parquet Courts and the soundscapes of New Order, the result is a hypnotic amphetamine rush with dizzying catchy melodies.

Bandcamp here, and Facebook here.

Taken from the debut release 'Quencebo' we have chosen to feature the first track 'The F.C.' The song is a fine example of what is a creative and varied range of tracks. Musically they mix pace and melody with some blistering moments and the occasional pause for reflection. Ones to watch I reckon.

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Beatrix Players - Lady of the Lake.

Background - London-trio Beatrix Players have just released their new single 'Lady Of The Lake' taken from their upcoming debut album (due in 2017).

When choosing a suitable name for their band this London based trio certainly gave themselves something to live up to. Beatrix, from the Latin Viatrix, is a name that in its various forms has been previously bestowed upon self-sacrificing martyrs and self-denying mystics, royal consorts and Holy Roman empresses, Balzac heroines and Tarantino assassins. No small irony then, that a name so often chosen by tragedians for their characters literally means "she who makes happy".

Through their enchantingly dark and evocative melodies, expansive arrangements and empowered orchestral sound Beatrix Players tell stories of real life and fantasy. Citing influences as diverse as Michael Nyman and Regina Spektor and drawing comparisons to the likes of Kate Bush and Einaudi Ludovico; this London-based, all female trio combine elements of Folk, Jazz, Progressive and Classical music. In 2015 the band (Amy Birks, Jess Kennedy and Amanda Alvarez) took their unique sound – a beautiful combination of vocals, piano and cello – into the studio to record their self-produced debut album, which has been mixed by two-time BBC Folk Award winner, Jim Moray. That album, titled Magnified, is scheduled for release in 2017. Website here, Facebook here.

If your one for classic vocals, mixed with a timeless piano and cello combination, then 'Lady of the Lake' suggests that you (and I) may well be in store for a magnificent album next year. Supported by an imaginative video this is one mightily impressive and beautiful song.

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Stella Rio - Don't Go Away.

Background from Stella - I've finally had a chance to work on my own material after being consumed by other projects for the past while.

You'll notice the song is about meeting that special person and feeling that you’re connected on a deeper level and never wanting to let that feeling go. I think most people can relate because deep down most people chase that kind of love.

In addition to my own music I've been working on Canadian DJ's DVBBS latest Wicked Ways EP, which just came out. I've also been writing for the new Little Mix album Glory Days. The album dropped on November 18. You'll definitely want to go support their great work as well! Facebook here.

With distinctive and absolutely charming vocals, Stella Rio has given us the splendid 'Don't Go Away'. Melodic and catchy, combines with expansive and dreamy, a perfect recipe for a superb song if ever there was one.

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Golden Daze - Ghost.

Background - Formed by Ben Schwab and Jacob Loeb, Golden Daze is a collaborative songwriting duo. Inspired by 60's melodic rock and contemporaries like Cass Mccombs and Brian Jonestown Massacre, Golden Daze drenches their straightforward earthly pop tunes in ethereal drones and tape flutter. The duo, originally from the Midwest (Schwab from Ohio and Loeb from Chicago), are based in Los Angeles and recently released their self-titled debut LP on Autumn Tone Records.

This week the band shares the surreal video for "Ghost." The video serves as a tribute to the band member's mothers, and tells the story of a mother psychically channeling the spirits of her sons. Catch the band on tour now with together PANGEA and Twin Peaks.

Tour Dates:
11/28 - Denver CO- Moon Room*
11/29 - Lawrence KS- Bottleneck*
11/30 – Columbia, MO – Cafe Berlin*
12/01 – Detroit, MI – El Club^
12/02 – Cleveland, OH – Grog Shop^
12/03 – Toronto, ON – Lee’s Palace^
12/05 – Burlington, VT – Signal Kitchen^
12/06 – Portland, ME – Port City Music Hall^
12/07 – Boston, MA – The Sinclair^
12/08 – Philadelphia, PA – Union Transfer^
12/09 – New York, NY – Webster Hall^
12/10 – Richmond, VA – Strange Matter^
12/13 – Atlanta, GA – Aisle 5^
12/14 – Nashville, TN – Exit/In^
12/16 – Chicago, IL – Thalia Hall^
12/17 – Chicago, IL – Metro^
* with together PANGEA
^ with together PANGEA and Twin Peaks

Atmospheric and sometimes seemingly distant vocals and harmonies drift above the rich textured sounds making 'Ghost' a very hypnotic and pleasing song. Slowly building in energy this is one really fine track.

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Quality Not Quantity: Calling All Astronauts - Adwaith - Cassady Southern

Calling All Astronauts - Life As We Know It.

Background - 2016 has been another fantastic year for West London Electro Punks Calling All Astronauts. It has seen the release of their widely acclaimed second album “Anti-Social Network” Their single Empire hit #2 in the Official European Indie Chart, they’ve had two #1s in the Hype Machine Twitter Chart, they headlined the Bandstand Stage on the final night of Beautiful Days Festival. They have seen their Twitter following swell to over 500,000.

They round off the year with their ninth single, “Life As We Know It” released via Supersonic Media on Dec 23rd in which we see a more mellow, electronic side to these usually noisy rockers. The single is backed by three remixes and would you believe a “shuffle” video. “We are not a band to release the same single over and over, yes they all sound like us, but we are very eclectic in our influences and I hope our music reflects this” David CAA.

Website here, Facebook here.

The original version of 'Life As We Know It' is a rhythmic feast where guitars glide and the deep vocal delivery adds some real edge. The three remixes take the song into differing orientations, however the dark sonic vibes cannot help but remain.

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Adwaith - Pwysau.

Background - Adwaith have always existed. They have been there since the sixties, through Roxy's filthy glitter, and within the glorious chaos of punk and its post-punk offspring. Now the relevant stars have aligned, Adwaith have been made physical in the form of Gwenllian Anthony (Bass, Mandolin), Hollie Singer ( Vocals, Guitar), Eva Chelsea Free (Vocals) and Heledd Owen ( Drums).

History flows through Adwaith, so much so that they are formed around a classic core songwriting duo of Hollie and Gwenllian. Like famous musical partners Hollie and Gwenllian's friendship stretches back to their childhood days (the pair met when they were three years old). After taking a detour through life with Hollie moving to Australia (which included her singing at the Opera House) the pair are now reunited and embarking on forging a new path for Welsh music. Inspired by artists who refuse to walk the easy path (Datblygu, The Slits, Nico, Happy Mondays, The Velvet Underground, Johnny Cash) Adwaith are set to be hailed as the most exciting band to come out of Wales for a very long time.

The band have worked with Patricia Morgan from Datblygu over the summer to develop their demos and sound. The results can be heard on Pwysau their post-folk debut single.  With Pwysau, Adwaith offer their hand and let the listener know that are people who care and who can support you in your time of need. Facebook here.

'Pwysau' is a beautifully understated folk song where the music is crisp and the vocals just right. At just under two minutes it's almost a tease, however if Adwaith deliver more music of this calibre, it may well be time to learn the Welsh nations language.

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Cassady Southern - Breakdown.

Background - Cassady Southern’s new single “Breakdown” is a paean to broken love and showcases the ability of Cassady's writing to uncover the vulnerable truths within all of us. Cassady’s heartfelt lyrics and unique delivery are enhanced by the signature sound of guitarist extraordinaire Wolf Mail, and the rock-solid rhythm section of current drummer for ‘Ratcat’ Reuben J Alexander and bassist Brad Fitter. Paul Najar fills out the band on piano and Sarah Hamad provided back-up vocals.

Skilfully crafted and produced, the track features the undeniable talents of Cassady and the band. Both authentic and catchy, a couple of plays will have it stuck in your head. “While this song is personal, it is not just about me. It’s the result of my own, and others’ experiences, distilled over time. It’s about wanting someone so much that it is consuming; and I think many people can relate to that” says Cassady.

Indeed Heart is the fitting name of Cassady’s latest EP, featuring three other original tracks including, “I Liked It”, which has an instant groove, the rocking “Feet on the Ground”, and “I Ain’t Feeling A Thing”, which closes with a poignant sing-along. The EP is a musical journey through many landscapes and influences - distant echoes of LA canyons, ricochets of nascent southern rock and a raucous pub’s worth of rain-soaked London blues-rock.

The EP was recorded by Nick Franklin (Daniel Johns, Matt Corby) and produced by Nick and Daniel Vanda (British India, The Wrights), son of Harry Vanda (The Easybeats, AC/DC), at Hercules Street Studios in Sydney. It was mastered by Don Bartley at Benchmark Mastering. Heart follows on from Cassady’s debut EP Don’t Ask Me which was shortlisted in the MusicOz Awards and supported on local radio around the country. Website here, Facebook here.

'Breakdown' showcases a gentler and more personal side of Cassady Southern. It sits well on the new EP in as much that, each song takes very different musical directions. The one constant is Cassady's fine vocals and the superbly delivered musical arrangements.

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And The Beat Goes On: The Wedding Present - Losers - Port Juvee - Conversing With Oceans

The Wedding Present - Broken Bow.

Background - The Wedding Present present their track 'Broken Bow' not long after premiering 'Kill Devil Hills'. These are among the more animated bustling tracks from their new album ‘Going, Going…’, referencing the interplay between alienation, distance and freedom for the first track and a sensual predatory encounter in the second. This UK indie cult band's widely anticipated ninth studio album gets its vinyl release on December 2nd in North America via Happy Happy Birthday To Me Records (HHBTM). The album retells the story of a road trip across the USA, revealed across a collection of twenty ‘linked’ songs, each with an accompanying short film.

'Going, Going…' is also the first double album in The Wedding Present’s long glorious career. It opens with four haunting instrumentals, as if David Gedge has been stunned into silence and is slowly working up the courage to speak, like when your loved one asks you what’s wrong and all you can manage to do is slowly shake your head. Finally, he collects himself and explodes into ‘Two Bridges’, and even then he’s only able to leave a voicemail message—he probably made sure to call when he knew she couldn’t answer.

Formed in 1985, The Wedding Present are one of the UK’s most longstanding and much-loved indie bands with eighteen UK Top 40 hit singles to their name. The Fall’s Mark E. Smith, in his northern-ness, his cantankerousness, is one of the few peers who can match David Gedge’s longevity.

'Going, Going…' was recorded at Studios La Fabrique in the south of France and Parr Street Studios in Liverpool with multiple Grammy award winning producer Andrew Scheps (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Black Sabbath, Adele). Website here, Facebook here.

Tour Dates April 2017.
14 : Washington, DC - Rock And Roll Hotel
15 : Brooklyn, NY - Bell House
16 : Boston, MA - Great Scott
17 : Montreal, QC - Bar Le Ritz PDB
19 : Toronto, ON - Horseshoe Tavern
20 : Cleveland, OH - Grog Shop
21 : Chicago, IL - Lincoln Hall
22 : Minneapolis, MN - Turf Club
25 : Seattle, WA - Crocodile
26 : Vancouver, BC - Biltmore Cabaret
28 : San Francisco, CA - Independent
29 : Los Angeles, CA - Echo
30 : San Diego, CA - Casbah

I cannot miss the chance to feature another song from The Wedding Presents latest album, this time we can share 'Broken Bow'. Currently on tour in the UK and Ireland the band have some US tour dates scheduled for 2017 (see above). As for the song, well it's typical of the high quality across the album, an album that will easily sit up towards the top end of my favourites for 2016.

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Losers - The Ruiner.

Background - Losers have shared their new video for the track 'The Ruiner', this video comes alongside the news that the band will soon play a headline show at London's Electric Ballroom on 30th November 2016. Losers released their brand new album 'How To Ruin Other People's Futures' in September 2016.

Made up of Tom Bellamy (ex-Cooper Temple Clause), Paul Mullen (ex-YourCodeNameIs:Milo/Young Legionnaire), Eddy TM (DJ/new music radio and club guru) and Dean Pearson and with years of history across a huge range musical landscapes, Losers are the rarest of species, a band with no safety net and no conformist formula to follow. 

Their previous material has crossed over a huge range of styles and genres with their earlier dance driven material developing all the way into the more rock driven and poignant emotive output of their previous album. Now, Losers are back with another more developed new outlook, as a new band, and more importantly, with their new album ‘How To Ruin Other People’s Futures’. Website here, Facebook here.

The video for 'The Ruiner' has something a little "film noir" about it. The song has a darker and moody feeling coursing through it, and collectively I am left needing to watch and listen again. It's a credit to their recent album release.

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Port Juvee - Bleached Out Soda Pop.

Background - Port Juvee is excited to release their new music video for "Bleached Out Soda Pop". The beachy video paired with Port Juvee's sunny garage rock-inspired sound is the perfect antidote for the winter blues.

Port Juvee may call the plains of Canada home, but they are no stranger to international success. Having played a multitude of festivals including CMJ, Sled Island X-Fest and Rifflandia, the fivesome has also supported DIIV, Titus Andronicus, Twin Peaks, Sticky Fingers, Bleachers and The Orwells on tour. The band also slipped into the global spotlight in 2014 when tracks from their Revenge EP were featured in Herschel Supply Company’s Spring ad campaign.

Although Port Juvee embody a sound that is equally indebted to New York City post-punk and California surf garage, the band's stomping grounds are in Calgary. An isolated city that thrives on extremes, the huge vacant buildings downtown take on an eerie feeling after dark and inhabit a post-apocalyptic vibe. This, combined with the band's obsession with gritty 80’s films in the vein of John Carpenter and David Cronenberg, are the essence and source of inspiration for their energetic post punk sound. Bandcamp here, Facebook here.

The video is a little like a summer tourism promotion, however 'Bleached Out Soda Pop' quickly helps it to double up as a fine music video. Above they are described having a sunny garage rock sound, I can't argue with that, Port Juvee are quite addictive.

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Conversing With Oceans - The Gold Rush (Remastered).

Background -  Worldly indie-pop artist Conversing With Oceans (Alex Bondarev) reveals his glorious full EP entitled Past. Present. Future. The EP holds two of Conversing With Oceans' previously released buzz-worthy singles "Heart of a Poet" and "Deeper". "Heart of a Poet" was produced with longtime friend and musician, Brendan Rivera and his production team Field Observations (comprised of Matt Labozza and Stephen DeRafelle).

"Past. Present. Future. combines all aspects of time, while my name (Conversing With Oceans) combines locations. It’s a coming together of time and space. Also, the songs progress from a starting place of past conflict (“A Spotlight on 3rd”) to current love (“The Gold Rush” and “Deeper”) to a place of future inclusion of others in that love (“Heart of a Poet”, “The Dream”). Finally, ‘The Dream’ is the only full-band song on this EP and my next EP will be more of a full-band sound,” says Conversing With Oceans.

Conversing With Oceans’ first single “The Gold Rush” quickly landed him a one-on-one showcase with the legendary Randy Jackson at this year’s SXSW and a global distribution deal with The Orchard. Website here, Facebook here.

'The Gold Rush' is such a fine indie pop song, as in fairness are the other four pieces on the new EP.  Conversing With Oceans may say that on the EP, only 'The Dream', is a full band song, in which case his ability to make each track expansive and so lush is quite something!

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Weekend Wonders: Daniel Land - Columbo - Felin - Silent Riders - Sonïtus

Daniel Land - New York Boogie-Woogie.

Background - After a three year hiatus, Daniel Land has announced the forthcoming release of his 'In Love With a Ghost' LP, undoubtedly his most complicated and textured record to date. This album follows albums 'Love Songs For The Chemical Generation' and 'The Space Between Us' by Daniel Land & The Modern Painters. It was recorded over the three years following that group's disbanding, at a time when he seriously considered giving up making music. The first single from this release is 'New York Boogie-Woogie', along with a video based on footage Daniel Land himself filmed in New York.

Daniel Land explains, "This is an album about cities. It is an album about reinvention, and starting your life over. It is an album about growing up, finding love, and settling down. And to a lesser degree, it is about the damage that can be done to a person, or a family, by falling in love with the wrong person. With 'In Love With A Ghost', I came full circle for a while by incorporating a whole bunch of influences that pre-date my love of dream-pop and shoegaze. I really wanted to make a colourful, widescreen, detailed record. When I started the album, I didn't have a live band, and most of the tracks were written on the piano, for my own amusement, rather than for a group with three guitarists." 

Daniel suffered a series of health issues midway through making the album, including a chronic inner-ear infection that left him partially deaf for over a year and also prone to bouts of dizziness.

"Unable to make music, and living in a new city made me feel, at times, powerfully depressed. This became a crisis of confidence that went very deep and it did seem, for a while, that I would never find my way back to making music again. Finishing the album was a process that involved re-evaluating my life and overhauling my relationship to music, and coming out of the other side more healthy, more humble, and more grateful. It's good to be back again," says Daniel.

Daniel Land has been releasing dream-pop and ambient music for nearly a decade, having developed a unique blend of dreamgaze and confessional song writing. Drowned in Sound said that the first album 'Love Songs For The Chemical Generation' is "one of the finest records of its time", while NME says the single "Within The Boundaries" was "like Slowdive reimagined by Phil Spector".

Daniel Land's 'In Love With a Ghost' LP was released on November 25 via Bandcamp and the usual online retailers. Website here, Facebook here, Bandcamp here.

'New York Boogie-Woogie' is a very appealing dream pop song. Daniel Land's vocals and the musical production are equally melodic, and the song builds beautifully.

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Columbo - Made In The UK & Rockabilly Bob.

Background - Great tunes sparkle no matter how long they've been buried. And in a remarkable turn of events, a never-released album has been unearthed and is finally about to receive the acclaim the cognoscenti originally felt it deserved.

In 1999, indie surf-pop-meets-bigbeat duo Columbo were ready to roll. An unlikely mashup between sought-after dance remixer Trailermen and the bass player of UK ska and dub crowd-pleasers Maroon Town, Columbo were snapped up by Richard Branson’s V2 label on the basis of their quirky single, "Rockabilly Bob”.

The reaction was instantaneous, the broad popular appeal obvious. “British surf-pop mavericks” (Sunday Express), “irresistible idiocy” (Melody Maker). What’s On said “this is the song the Beach Boys would’ve made if they knew Quentin Tarantino”.

But then things went South. Promotion stalled. Critical distributors choked- perhaps unsettled by the eccentricity of “Rockabilly Bob”. The track still charted, but the duo were disillusioned, feeling they and the label were no longer on the same page. The planned second single was pulled at the last minute.  Rather than release material without the support they deserved, Columbo walked out on V2.  An unreleased treasure trove of pop genius was left to gather dust…

In 2016, Stuart, the boss of indie label Banoffeesound (a longtime Columbo obsessive), decided to do a bit of sleuthing and find out what happened. Like an episode of the TV show the band mischievously named themselves after, there was a mystery- “Whatever Happened To Columbo?” With some Google-fu and joining of dots, Stuart managed to track down Jules from Columbo, now a sought-after composer for film and TV. Sure enough, there was an unreleased collection of Columbo material - it existed. The lost treasure was found, and eventually the other half of the duo - now a well-known broadcaster - was back in the fray too. This wild and unpredictable laboratory of song-writing was bubbling again.

And it’s remarkably fresh. It’s from the ‘slice of life’ school of British song-writing The Kinks, Madness and Blur so cleverly express, albeit in different genres. "Strawberry Ice Cream" is a rollercoaster collision of Lou Reed and perfect pop confection. The eponymous "Columbo" is a gorgeous slab of sleaze, "Bad Behaviour" a searing lament on modern morality.  And there's “Local Boy” - the catchiest pop song you haven’t heard yet. The album was released on November 18th 2016 - seventeen years late, but just in time! More here.

'Made In The UK' and 'Rockabilly Bob' are two very contrasting songs, which suggest the album really has got something special going on. Having been gathering dust for practically two decades, based on these two songs, Stuart at Banoffeesound is to be thanked for digging out some hidden gems.

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Felin - Gossip.

Background - Out on Friday 25th November 2016 Felin New Self-Titled EP. The Swedish act Felin consists of songwriter/ artist Elin Blom and photographer/ director Fredrik Etoall (the "F" in Felin who provides all the visuals for the band).

Having worked with the likes of Icona Pop, Tove Lo, The Rolling Stones and Adam Lambert, Felin are all about the highest quality of sound as well as image. Are they worth looking at and listening to? For sure!

Website here, Facebook here.

From the new self titled  EP 'Gossip' is one of six tracks. The music video is imaginative and the song very impressive. The EP has some very feisty pop punk tracks along with the occasional gentler moment, it's one very catchy collection of songs.

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Silent Riders - I See You.

Background - This Copenhagen-based trio seem to have sprung from some murky unknown world, if we are to believe the statements of the band themselves. Little is known about Lu, Gee and C who comprise the group, or what is behind the masks they wear during their performances. They might have materialised from shadows in the woods, lurking in the dark until they were ready to share their sounds with the world. This mythical sphere that they have created for themselves is accessible through their music, which is a vision of electronic music that is organic and alive with both warmth and danger.

Led by the sultry voice of Lu, we are taken into the dark woods of the Silent Riders with almost cinematic brilliance as Gee and C mans the machines that weaves the atmospheric dronings of this world. A world that could be easily mistaken for one created by David Lynch or Tim Burton. The rhythms that form the path to this domain have been tried and tested by previous travellers, known to us by names like Throbbing Gristle, Cabaret Voltaire or Tolouse Lowtrax.

With debut single "I See You" they offer up a brilliant pop diamond of all the elements of their sound palette. With Lu in her most soulful voice, bouncing off of an almost funky drum machine, all drenched in layers of dark analog ambience. On the lush "Copenhagen Dream" we hear Lu channeling a sense of brit-pop nonchalance into a rather political song about the current state of her city. "Being Afraid" on the other hand, sees the band pull out their hardest and grittiest song. With Lu sounding like PJ Harvey at her most moody, the slow groove behind her sounds like a factory machine steadily beating away and releasing steam.  Other highlights on their forthcoming album include the chilling "Static" and the ethereal beauty of closing track "Falling" which sees the Riders in their most relaxed and dreamy state, and echoes the works of Portishead and Massive Attack. With debut single "I See You" (coming out Jan 6th) they offer up a brilliant diamond of all the elements of their sound palette. 

There's a lot of words in the above promo piece we received however 'I See You' pretty much lives up to the introduction. Something of a darker atmospheric piece, the vocals and music are beautifully matched, and the song conjures up mental images, teasing my imagination. Another forthcoming album for the must listen list.

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Sonïtus - Kleptocracy.

Background - About ‘Kleptocracy’ The blistering power riff that scythes through the silence to announce Sonitus’ latest release is a prelude to a track that melds the edge of Jane’s Addiction and the invention of Primus with a touch of deep street-soul. ‘Kleptocracy’ soars and swoops in a molten waltz as each band member strains to match the high standards of his fellow musicians, surrounding frontman Russell’s vocal with an electrifying vigour as he opens his lungs to unleash an uber-Ohrwurm of a chorus. What initially seems to be a love story concerning a couple at the margins of society reveals itself as a metaphor for the hopelessly unequal struggle between the masses and the corporations. It charts “a world, an economy, run by thieves,” says guitarist Dein, denoting the biting political intent of ‘Kleptocracy’ that matches its clear ambition to be a bona fide alt-rock classic.

About Sonïtus Hailing from East London’s as yet ungentrified fringes, Sonïtus are a multicultural assemblage of tenacious artists whose powerful neo-rock explores the beautiful, devious and carnal sides of the human psyche. Brought together by a passion for prog, alt-rock and adventurism, counting Radiohead, A Perfect Circle, Incubus and Animals As Leaders among their inspirations, Russell Balogun (vocals), Dein Moore (guitar, vocals), Nathan Chan (guitar), Scott Bacon (bass) and Romulo Heredia (drums) are also bonded by their exceptional musicianship. 

The band’s dexterity endows their songs with a distinctively expressive touch, where intricate passages, dynamic textures and raw power lend the material sensitivity, colour and heft. The quintet’s debut EP, ‘Kleptocracy’ – recorded in part at Urchin Studios in Hackney with Dan Cox and Matt Ingram (Lianne La Havas, Enter Shikari, Denai Moore, Slaves and many more), and produced by Sonïtus’ Nathan – is a seven-song testament to this, showcasing a band unafraid to weave threads of R&B and urban UK sound into their politically driven progressive metal, and, through mastery of their art and radical songcraft, Sonïtus are pushing new boundaries at UK rock’s bleeding edge. Website here, Facebook here.

We are delighted to be able to feature the debut EP 'Kleptocracy' in full. Sonitus certainly know how to mix unbridled power alongside more reflective and detailed musical styles. Overall I guess the alternative rock label is fitting, perhaps it's best to keep in mind that for rock read ROCK and as far as alternative goes, this is a band that explore a wide range of ideas, and put down some really fine sounds.

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BeeVids: Corniglia - The Hamiltons - Terra Lightfoot - 55 Cancri e

Corniglia - Oh My Love.

Background - Perth indie pop act, Corniglia are releasing their debut single ‘Oh My Love’, through The A&R Department on the the 25th November.

With comparisons to Beach House, Daughter and Radiohead their brand of Dark-Pop combines dreamy guitar and synth leads with an undulating bass groove and minimal beat guided by a tambourine. The introspective, almost mantra like vocals, touch on mortality and the vulnerability that lies beneath the bravado of modern life.

Recorded in bedrooms and living rooms, songwriting brothers (Matthew and Mitchell Irwin) are walking the line between their raw, DIY tendencies and silky production, being mixed and mastered by Perth musical guru, Alan Smith of Bergerk! Studios. DIY wins out in the end on their decision for making the film clip for the track, with Matthew and singer (Chloe De Paoli) shooting a homemade animated film clip for the release off a bedroom floor.

“We used over 1000 photos shooting the stop motion film clip for ‘Oh My Love’ and took many more that we didn't use. Chloe spent a good week before that drawing up all the pieces. It was a strangely therapeutic exercise,” says Matthew Irwin on the creation of the video for the track. Expect an announcement of Perth shows for the end of the year and early January soon, as well as debut album release plans in 2017. Website here. Facebook here.

'Oh My Love' has some soft atmospheric vocals gently travelling above a sophisticated soundtrack. My inner minimalist says's that's enough!

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The Hamiltons - Take The Hit.

Background - The Hamilton’s have just unveiled the video for their new single ‘Take The Hit’ out 16th December. The Hamiltons are an anomaly. In an era where many artists work with songwriters, producers and musicians to create their music, The Hamiltons are totally in control of their artistic vision; writing, playing and producing all their material from a bedroom in London.

Since deciding to relocate from Sydney to the U.K with a one-way ticket in 2015, a lot has happened to this formidable duo. They found themselves some quirky musicians to complete their live act: a tubist, drummer and guitarist, which compliments perfectly Emma’s jazz tinged vocals and shredding accordion skills, and brother Tom’s masterful, frenzied piano chops and husky voice. They have performed all over town, toured the country opening for Matt Cardle, and even collaborated with Guy Chambers on some interesting projects. Let’s throw a few more quirks into the mix. They grew up playing country, cajan, jazz, folk, and 60’s music in their fathers’ band, and debuted in Australia with an exceptional French album (they are half French!) which Van Dyke Parks called “a total triumph on so many levels”.

The Hamiltons perform with a manic passion, tinged with nostalgia but cemented in a pop tradition. “We take a genre of music we like, and turn it on its head” says Tom when asked to define their musical genre. It’s the kind of music best to be heard than described. Their single “Take The Hit” showcases their eclectic taste and even features sax parts from Max Abrams (from the Grammy-Award winning The Mavericks). Website here, Facebook here.

Live dates: 16th December- Crazy Coqs, Piccadillly Circus, London. 

'Take The Hit' is a gorgeous pop song that is bright, uplifting and oozing with charm. Love it!

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Terra Lightfoot - All Alone.

Background from Terra - My new video for “All Alone” has just been released. The visuals were filmed on our last UK tour while in the highlands of Scotland. We headed there to take some photos with noted landscape photographer Angus Bruce. On a whim, we decided to shoot a music video and the only song we had with us was “All Alone” — fitting, since I was going to be alone in these frames of insanely beautiful Scottish highlands.

We visited a hidden beach, a cemetery, a bog full of petrified wood, a castle, some sheep, and finally a dreamy waterfall. During the shoot, Angus mentioned that he and his wife had arranged to get a new puppy. We had such an amazing time and the next day they asked whether I would mind if they named their new pet "Terra". I happily agreed.

The Scottish highlands will always hold a piece of my heart and I'm so glad we were able to capture that sense of awe on film. The track “All Alone” is off of my sophomore LP Every Time My Mind Runs Wild which was released this year on Sonic Unyon. Website here, Facebook here.

'All Alone' has a bluesy feel and Terra's vocals are a delight. Melodic and extremely catchy, this is one very likable song.

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55 Cancri e - 55 Cancri e II.

Background - 55 Cancri e - Att lämna Tellus (UK Release 9th December). Att lämna Tellus (in english: To leave Tellus) is a journey between the planets Tellus (Earth) and 55 Cancri e. It starts on Tellus with a feeling that you might not be where you are supposed to. A search for a peace of mind and a place in the universe where you belong. Travelling through deserts, dark forests, emotions, space and time. Giving up and moving on at the same time. A revelation. An awakening. Suddenly there is no fear anymore and that is when you find love and the courage to start over. Leaving home for another home. 55 Cancri e - a new beginning.

On her debut full length album, on Danish label Music For Dreams, Swedish artist Sara Hausenkamp lets her dreams of space travel come to full fruition. With a steady hand on her guitar, she steers us through the desert at night, through the cosmic noises of space, and finally to the distant planet 55 Cancri e.

Ranging from melancholic to hopeful, the music of 55 Cancri e is perhaps an expression of Hausenkamps longing for a better home planet, and for the possibility of escape. In creating these kinds of science fiction lullabies, she is preparing us for both the beauty and the sadness of a looming future.

Using her voice mainly to hum or whistle along, she does however break the silence on a few tracks to sing in her native tongue. On "Rävjakt" she imagines a turning of the tables, where the fox hunters are chased out of the forest by the animals. "Alltid Du" is a tender and straightforward love song that has become the centre of her recent live performances. And on "55 Cancri e I (We Ran Away)" she switches over to English for the first time, where we find her in a slightly different voice.

Often working with variations of recurring musical themes, Hausenkamp allows for subtle changes over a number of tracks to create a linear progression that unfolds as a whole in a hypnotic brew of folk-inspired pop. Saturating it all in a glistening atmosphere of both electronic and acoustic sounds as well as samples and field recordings, this album comes as a natural format for Hausenkamp to exlore her ideas. Facebook here.

The tenth and final track on the album '55 Cancri e II' gives some insight into the collection of music, due for UK release in December. The songs & music, slide effortlessly from folk to almost experimental themes. There's some intriguing moments however overall everything is quite accessible and you get to go on a fantastic journey.

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