Saturday, 21 October 2017

On The Wane - Indytronics - Marble Mammoth - Hoult - Ali Horn - Gaffa Tape Sandy

On The Wane - Human Race.

Background - Oscillating between dream gaze and power gaze fusion, Ukraine’s On The Wane brings us their new full album 'Schism', slated for release on November 20, preceded by the first single 'Human Race'.

On the Wane is Daria Maksimova (bass, vocals), Anna Lyashok (drums, vocals), Eugene Voitov (guitar, synth), and Eli Demyanenko (guitar). Together, the four-piece have become a smooth cohesive force in the shoegaze, neo-gothic and noise rock realm.

"Mankind as a race is quite an absurd thing. We strive to survive but we are killing ourselves. We're beautiful and ugly,  lovely and cruel but, anyway, we are not infinite," says Daria Maksimova on this lead track.

In early 2017, the band recorded the 10 tracks that would become the full-length album'Schism' at the studio of the Kyiv-based band Sinoptik (winners of the worldwide music competition Global Battle of the Bands 2016) and under the direction of sound engineer Dima Afanasyev-Gladkykh (a.k.a. Sinoptik). 

“For me this album is a transitional state, the first step on the way to something higher. We put a lot of deep thoughts and feelings into this release. A lot of work has been done. This is definitely the best we ever did, and I can only hope that the next release will be even cooler,” says Anna Lyashok. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK, BANDCAMP.

On The Wane move with ease across differing genres and styles with the forthcoming album 'Schism'. Therefore 'Human Race' the first single and one of the ten tracks that make up the collection, doesn't tell the whole story. What it does do is give an indication of the bands power and intensity, where atmospheric sounds and potent musicianship are everywhere.

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Indytronics - Alien Sun.

Background - Indytronics - psychedelic / indie 5-piece band from Kiev, Ukraine. The band started playing in 2015, releasing their debut long play ‘Scintilla Wave’. Indytronics played live presentation show in Kiev club ‘Atlas’ and at several Ukrainian festivals: Woodstock Ukraine, Virtuoso Festival, Tattoo Collection, Master Festival and etc.

In 2016 Indytronics won 2 competitions: ‘Battles Of Students Bands’ and ‘Irish True’ by Tullamore Dew, winning the possibility to play concert in Dublin, Ireland. In summer Indytronics went in Ukrainian tour, playing in 6 cities and at two festivals: ‘Woodstock Ukraine’ and ‘Z-Games’.

Indytronics - musical expeditors of the sun and foggy mountains, sand savannas and oceans, who see beautiful in simple things, creating a dazzling mix of psychedelics, indie and electronics.

In April 2017, Indytronics won huge all-Ukrainian competition 'Indie Fields' - conducted by the recording studio 'Istok', Music Hub and Atlas - the group became number 1 among 500 participants from all over the country. Brand new EP is coming out in Autumn 2017. In summer 2017 Indytronics played at the biggest festival in Ukraine - Atlas Weekend. FACEBOOK.

We featured Indytronics back in March & commented then that they are a band worth checking out further. 'Alien Sun' helps us along the way & it is another engaging, melodic indie rocker. The EP is eagerly anticipated.


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Marble Mammoth - Glitter Amongst Gravel.

Background - Swedish, Stockholm based Marble Mammoth wanders seamlessly between classic genres in a dynamic mix of energetic riff based rock and dreamy, melodic psychedelia. A furious rhythm section, screaming organs and fuzzy guitars greets you on the second single ”Glitter Amongst Gravel” – out October 20th, and give you a taste of what’s to come.

The five track self-titled EP immediately draws your mind to the experimental side of early Tame Impala or even classic rock acts like Led Zeppelin, and we find our self as much in the late 60’s as in the present.

"Marble Mammoth is in many ways defined by an endless search. So it only feels natural that the EP sound the way it does. The songs were written in a state of emotional turmoil, and it wasn't until afterward, with some distance, that I really understood what they were all about." – Tobias Bergholm (singer and guitarist)

With band members that have previously played in bands such as The Unisex, that has shared stage with The Libertines, and Dollhouse, that’s been touring the world and done collaborations with Mike Davis (MC5) and Nicke Andersson (The Hellacopters/Imperial State Electric), this is nothing but a pleasant new acquaintance on the Swedish and the international rock scene.

”Glitter Amongst Gravel” is out on all digital platforms yesterday, with the full EP to follow in November. FACEBOOK.

'Glitter Amongst Gravel' has a deep bass groove that along with the feisty drum arrangement drives the song along. The music builds with power into a full on rocker mixing fabulous rock vocals with some definitive guitar licks. Old school classic rock with a refreshingly modern twist.

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Hoult - Pharmacy.

Background - Hoult has the rare knack of sounding both dreamy and sharp at the same time. This, married with vital yet wistful song-writing, concocts his imaginative brand of guitar pop.

‘Pharmacy’ builds from an affecting intimacy into a song with a grand scale possessing folk-tinged anthemic choruses: reminiscent of Bombay Bicycle club and Frightened Rabbit rippling with personal lyrics that tap into wider themes: “Pharmacy summarises the feeling of frustration when you cannot help someone you care about.” Says Hoult “Darker themes run through the veins of this track, yet the energetic and cheerful instrumentation represent the mask a lot of people wear on a daily basis.”

Hoult better known as Sam Fowke is a singer-songwriter / producer from Gloucester, now based in Cardiff.He released one single entitled 'Red Handed’  under his own name last year, it quickly racked up over 7000 plays. He now returns under the new moniker Hoult with his most affecting and ambitious song yet. FACEBOOK.

From the opening chords a dreamy vibe mixes with a determined beat on 'Pharmacy' a song that has a whole load of hooks throughout.

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Ali Horn - Bloom.

Background - Ali Horn releases his new single ‘Bloom’ on November 10th via Liverpool based The Label Recordings.  His second single after the release of ‘Days Like Today’ in February, ‘Bloom’ is 4 minutes of spiralling, psychedelic guitars and echoing vocals from the Strange Collective guitarist.  

"It was the first track that I wrote away from Strange Collective in recent years that I actually thought was any good, first taking form in my basement bedroom come studio the original demo was 9 minutes long” Ali explains.  "This was then shortened for our live shows and then even more for this single version that we did last month in Parr Street Studios."

"I guess in essence it's about loneliness, sitting around out of my head thinking about where all my friends and loved ones were, sending them love and good vibes and hoping they were doing the same" FACEBOOK.

I would have been tempted to feature this song simply because of the promotional photo that accompanied it. However 'Bloom' has no need for any props, it's a gorgeously dreamy and multi layered song that just gets better and better as it builds into something quite special.

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Gaffa Tape Sandy - Beehive.

Background - Garage rockers Gaffa Tape Sandy have announced the release of their brand new single Beehive via Antigen Records, the fittingly triumphant finale of their explosive performance on the BBC Introducing stage at this year’s Glastonbury Festival.

Manic, thrilled-packed and seemingly precision-tooled to get crammed in your cranium, Beehive is the sound of every guitar band you’ve ever loved getting hopped-up on mountains of sugary treats, chasing their own shadows down a steep hillside and smashing gleefully into each other.

The Bury St Edmunds outfit’s brand of giddily frantic, high-octane hyper rock ‘n’ roll has already landed them support slots with acts including IDLES, Peace, SuperGlu and Get Inuit, whilst a flurry of upcoming tour dates will see them further establish their burgeoning live reputation.

Produced by George Perks (SuperGlu), Gaffa Tape Sandy’s Beehive was released yesterday via Antigen Records and will be available on all platforms. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

Despite sharing half this websites name 'Beehive' is most definitely featured on merit. It's a fabulous melting pot of ideas crammed into three minutes of crazy upbeat music and lyrics that are just amazing. File under Ones To Watch Out For, & do just so.

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Friday, 20 October 2017

Empathy Test - Lusterlit - Mcbaise - Louise Connell - Winter and Trabants - Sophie Morgan

Empathy Test - Everything Will Work Out.

Background - Empathy Test recently shared their latest single "Everything Will Work Out". The track is from their forthcoming EP 'Everything Will Work Out' (out Nov 3rd) and also appears on their new LP 'Safe From Harm' (out Nov 17). The duo explains that their latest single is about "hooking up with your ex and then waking up in the morning and realising you're not going to get back together, but it's okay; it's for the best". On November 17th, the band will be releasing two debut LPs, 'Losing Touch (Remastered)' and 'Safe From Harm', both of which contain remastered versions of previously released material as well as brand new tracks. You can pre-order the EP via iTunes, Amazon and Bandcamp, and pre-order the LPs here.

Empathy Test was formed in 2013 by childhood friends Isaac Howlett and Adam Relf. Sharing a mutual love for all things sci-fi, the London-based duo draw inspiration from ‘80s movie soundtracks, ‘90s guitar bands and underground dance music. Their name, borrowed from Ridley Scott’s 1982 sci-fi masterpiece, Blade Runner, gives a clue to the DNA of a band that, since its conception just three years ago, has self-released a string of meticulously layered, life-affirming Synthpop tracks that have won them both critical acclaim a legion of dedicated fans worldwide.

‘Everything Will Work Out’ represents a bold new sonic statement from Howlett and Relf, who, in a now wholly oversaturated synth scene, have used their considerable talents to form an enthralling, standalone identity. Shedding the dark, melancholy nightscapes of early tracks like their debut, ‘Losing Touch’, which has now had over half a million plays on Spotify, this new single finds the band stepping into the light, rocking the kind of chorus you wouldn’t be surprised to find on a new Haim album. Packed full of hooks and constantly evolving, Everything Will Work Out is the perfect final taster for new LP, ‘Safe From Harm’.

Fiercely independent, the band remains unsigned, having already turned down their fair share of record deals in favour of crowdfunding their twin debut albums via PledgeMusic. The hugely successful campaign is now 575% funded and counting, showing the huge weight of support they have behind them. Despite the lack of label-backing, they’re also turning in the kind of Spotify streams you would expect from the latest industry-backed buzz band, with their last single Bare My Soul already having racked up 70K+ plays. WEBSITE. FACEBOOK.

The vocals are notable from the beginning as they drift above a rich synth layered musical soundtrack. 'Everything Will Work Out' is a refreshing electro pop song with bags of feeling.

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Lusterlit - Flight.

Background - Lusterlit today share thier new video for the song Flight from the List Of Equipment EP. Directed by Deb Magocsi, it is inspired by The Fortress Of Solitude by Jonathan Lethem and is filled with images that conjure the magic, the Brooklyn, and the altitude of the story, not to mention Ms. Josephine Baker.

Lusterlit is having a video release show today Friday October 20th at 7PM at Communitea (11-18 46th Rd, New York, New York 11101).  They will be sharing the bill with Frank Olson Twins, Neil Kelly and Jheremie Jacque, all of whom will also be premiering new music videos as well as performing. 

With their songs created for Bushwick Book Club, BBC founder, Susan Hwang and BBC contributor and producer, Charlie Nieland, have joined forces to perform as the new, literature-inspired duo—Lusterlit. 

Both vocalists and multi-instrumentalists, Charlie and Susan alternate lead vocals and harmonies while supporting each other on guitar, bass, synth, traditional Korean drum and accordion. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK, BANDCAMP.

The brand new music video for 'Flight' adds further character, interest and identity to what is a funky and fabulous song. We featured the EP earlier this year & really recommend a listen at the very least.


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Mcbaise - 610.

Background - "Mcbess is an illlustrator and musician originally from the south of France, living nowadays in London. 

From playing drums, saxophone and percussion in a jazz band in Cannes as a teenager, to being part of multiple rock bands in London, it’s been quite the journey.

During the winter of 2014 Mcbess recorded Seabass in the south of France, between two family dinners, a way to capture the almost post-apocalyptic mood that resides in Cannes during the rest of the year in this dormant resort. 

Giving birth to “mcbaise”, becoming a sandbox to create some smooth tunes with the right amount of 'weird.'" BANDCAMP, FACEBOOK.

There is a gentle and lazy feel to '610', a cool and laid back rocker that mixes melodic hooks with some bluesy vibes. If you like this track then check out the other twelve songs on their album 'Windowsill', I think your in for a very welcome surprise.


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Louise Connell - Ilo.

Background - Louise Connell is a singer-songwriter from Airdrie, near Glasgow. Previously performing and releasing her music under the name Reverieme, she has earned a considerable reputation as an outstanding songwriter, with a particular knack for framing intelligent, literate lyrics in haunting and beautiful melodies, delivered by “a voice that would melt iron” (Ravechild).

Her first studio album, Straw Woman (2016), was released to consistent critical acclaim and overwhelmingly positive reviews, and was the featured Album Of The Week on several BBC Radio Scotland programmes as well as receiving general airplay on Radio 2, Radio 6 (Lauren Laverne’s “Headphone Moment”), Radio 4, Virgin Radio and Amazing Radio. 

Recently, her work has come to the attention of legendary artist and designer James Marsh. Famous for his wonderful illustrations for records by Talk Talk, Jamiroquai and many others, James drew inspiration from Louise’s newest songs to create a series of beautiful designs for her forthcoming releases, which will be the first records released under her own name Louise Connell.

These will be a series of three 6-track EPs, each of which will reflect a slightly different aspect of Louise’s writing and performance. The first EP, Squall will be released on October 20th, with parts 2 and 3 (Echo and Rale) following in January and March 2018 respectively. WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

We featured Louise Connell in February last year when she was using the Reverieme moniker & it's a pleasure to share another beautiful song from her with 'Ilo'. Her gorgeous vocals are accompanied by a refined musical arrangement and the good news is that there is plenty more to follow.


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Winter and Trabants - Just Stay.

Background - LA-based (by way of Brazil) dream-pop band Winter recently wrapped up a tour opening for another female-fronted LA act, Cherry Glazerr, a show supporting Colleen Green, and a show at the Desert Daze Festival in Joshua Tree in Oct. Their stand-alone single "Just Stay" featuring Trabants has just been shared.

Winter is a dreamy indie rock band whose sound was conceived in Boston. The current tour finds Samira Winter backed by Justine Brown, Chelsea Brown, and Anders LaSource of fellow LA band Summer Twins.

The quartet released their first full-length album, Supreme Blue Dream, via Lolipop Records in 2015. The aptly titled album floats on with a youthful sense of nostalgia and romanticized segues into adulthood. Influences include most of the 90s holy grail of grunge/alternative music (Dinosaur Jr., Smashing Pumpkins, Sonic Youth, Pixies, etc.). Winter aspires to connect others with their inner child by making blissful, beautiful and ethereal pop music. FACEBOOK.

'Just Stay' is a soothing and lush dream pop meets indie rock song. Melodic and flowing, it's very catchy and the accompanying old home movie footage (I'm guessing that's what it is) is fabulous.


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Sophie Morgan - Hey Annie.

Background - Twenty-year-old singer-songwriter Sophie Morgan released her debut EP Annie recently and the video for lead track Hey Annie is available to watch now. 

Born in Liverpool and raised in Rainhill and Widnes, Sophie began playing piano aged 6 and wrote her first songs aged 9. Brought up on an early musical education of Nick Drake and Van Morrison, and later introduced to Joni Mitchell and Carole King, Sophie released her first single Marionette last year and followed this with Quietly, picking up BBC Introducing and BBC 6Music support along the way.

After a chance meeting with The Verve’s Simon Jones, whilst singing in church at a friend’s wedding, Sophie began recording in Simon’s Chester studio alongside Davide Rossi (Goldfrapp, Coldplay, The Verve) and it was there that the Annie EP was produced. 

Hey Annie is the perfect introduction to the EP. It is a folk-tinged track with a delicate animated melody and a warming honeyed vocal. The EP is shaped by Sophie’s musical influences and is a body of work that is ahead of her young years. The video is a relaxed affair and shows Sophie and her tight-knit group of musician friends performing the track together in retro inspired footage. Sophie says;

“It encapsulates my earliest musical years, marking the end of the first chapter and the beginning of the next. The EP features the playing of all the musical friends I have made so far and is a real family affair recorded between all of our houses. I can feel that warmth and homeliness in the imperfections of the recordings - like the squeaking of my old piano stool or the creaking of the floorboards in my living room.” WEBSITE, FACEBOOK.

'Hey Annie' is a gently melodic song where Sophie Morgan's vocals are full of feeling. The band deliver a superb soundtrack, with high quality musicianship, as can be seen (and heard) on the 'live' music video.


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Wednesday, 18 October 2017

Akiva - Daniel Carlson - Good Boy - FEVA

Akiva - M.O.D.

Background - A triumphant taste of the heavyweight synth-based electro that marks Akiva’s live sets, ‘M.O.D’ melds a strident musical backing to a fierce polemic on war, all brutal groove, pulsing analogue, fierce guitar licks and anthemic vocal. It is a song written about past events – namely the juxtaposition of the Ministry of Defence’s ‘Be the Best’ recruitment campaign and the funeral cortèges on the streets of Wootton Bassett – but, indicative of this Bedfordshire band’s unflinching take on the state of the world, seems increasingly relevant now, as the clouds of war gather. 

“The lyrics reflect the hypocrisy of the political class sending the soldiers out against the public’s wishes, while simultaneously praising their bravery on national television,” explains frontman Dave MacKenzie. “They also highlight the pointlessness and futility of the deaths and trauma inflicted on so many soldiers.” The stunning video, its narrative arc illustrating those lyrics’ passion and despair, is the work of Berlin-based British animator Wayne McCauslin of the animation group Backyard Society. Wayne has previously worked on music videos for Crystal Fighters, Husky, Morcheeba and CHAMPS.

‘M.O.D.’ itself was recorded in Angelic Studios, Oxfordshire, before the sad death of its owner, and former Jamiroquai keyboardist, Toby Smith, earlier this year. Produced by Jake Gordon (Skepta, Emeli Sandé, Everything Everything), ‘M.O.D’ will be released on 13 October.

Alongside the perhaps anticipated touchstones of pop music excellence – the Stones, Krautrock, Madchester, the rhythmic lyricism of Kendrick Lamar and Courtney Barnett, psychedelia – Akiva are also happy to acknowledge the impact of cultural references less readily associated with rock’n’roll, namely UK current affairs programmes Newsnight and Question Time, and the trusty BBC Radio 4. For here is a band who believe that music is a medium for a message, never more so than in these troubled times. “Our songs tend to have a heavy theme of conflict and aggression running through them lyrically,” says frontman Dave MacKenzie. “Grab a beat, a bassline, add a view of the world, and you’re on the right track.”

Three quarters of Akiva – Malcolm Carter (guitar, vox), Rob Mercel (bass) and Dave Mercel (drums) – have known each other since their schooldays at a Bedfordshire comprehensive, variously soaking up the delights of warehouse raves, classic guitar riffery and grunge. Singer, guitarist and synth programmer Dave MacKenzie then arrived from England’s northwest, bringing with him a passion for breakbeat, the Madchester scene and anything with a bit of groove and swagger. Facebook here.

'M.O.D.' is a ripping mixture of synths, guitar, feisty drums and some impassioned vocals. The music video helps carry the message, this is a full throttle musical blast, that demands to be listened to.


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Daniel Carlson - Problems.

Background - New York / Amsterdam psychedelic master Daniel Carlson’s new album ‘Not A Drawing’ is out November 10th on Folkwit Records. He’s just dropped a superb new video for the slightly off-kilter, floaty, melancholic, ‘Problems’ from it.

In the making of his fourth album ‘Not A Drawing’ and arguably a future classic it is worth noting the thought process behind the making of something that, in an age of very transient and mass produced ‘art’, is a wholly refreshing approach, whereupon every detail is painstakingly managed in accordance with the creation of something valuable to cherish.

From the album cover artwork, Daniel explains, “I've been working with well known, in the art world - visual artists for my covers from the start. Thus far, they've all been people who I've gotten to know in NYC. The process is this: I reach out and ask if they'd be interested in doing the art. If they agree, I give them an early version of the (still in-process) record and they're responsible for both the artwork and coming up with a title for the album. The artist this time around is Nayland Blake, whose work has been shown internationally since the 1990s. I've chosen this route because, basically, I think the cover and title - when done well - can really shape how the listener takes in the record. And I think cover art - in general - is mostly a dead art and want to remind people how considered it can be. It's getting to the point where half the reason I'm making the records is to work with these artists whose work I admire so much.”

Regarding Daniel’s always innovative and enjoyable music videos he worked on the last record ‘Me You You Me’ with Belarusian (but Amsterdam-based) video artist Maxim Tyminko, Los Angeles-based photographer and filmmaker Jim Newberry, Tokyo based artist/photographer Ichiyo Ikezaki, and also directs them himself with Daniel’s visual art collaborator Cathleen Owens. Since that record, Cathleen and Daniel have made three official videos for the ten-time Grammy nominee Meshell Ndegeocello (at Meshell's request) for her record ‘Comet Come to Me’. Website here.

We have a very welcome second song and music video from Daniel Carson this time with the track 'Problems'. Musically it is again beautifully arranged and the vocals are as melodic as the soundtrack. The music video adds to the dreamy atmosphere, which is there in abundance.


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Good Boy - Fishing With A Shotgun.

Background - Barely Dressed Records is delighted to welcome fast-rising Brisbane punks Good Boy to their roster for the release of their brilliant impending EP Shirk Life, due November 10. To celebrate the signing, Good Boy have released a strange and wonderful video for first single ‘Fishing With A Shotgun’ and also shared details for their headline Australian tour.

Produced and engineered by Tim Fitz (Middle Kids), and mixed and mastered by Mikey Young (Eddy Current Suppression Ring / Total Control), ‘Fishing With A Shotgun’ is a 2 minute 30 second burst of hyper-intelligent garage punk energy. And now it comes with an equally awesome video.

Created by Australia’s pre-eminent music video auteur SPOD, the video combines 3-D animation taking aim at the absurdity and vulgarity of Pauline Hanson and right-wing politics within Australia. "Fishing With A Shotgun is a dig at the disgusting, spineless leaders that run our country, the dismal state of Australian politics and the gutless idiots too dumb and stupid to say or do anything,” says singer Rian King, “It talks about the helplessness felt by thousands of young Aussies.”

Infused with vitriol and incendiary lyrics, Fishing With A Shotgun is the first single to come from Good Boy’s brand new EP Shirk Life. Shirk Life will also be available on a limited edition 12” vinyl, packaged with their earlier standout EP Plum. You can pre-order the double EP now.

Good Boy have built a reputation for barnstorming live shows and recordings which are whip-smart and raucous. Their live energy recalls the best of Cloud Nothings, Parquet Courts and Australia’s influential Eddy Current Suppression Ring. In the last 12 months alone they have played Falls Festival, Blurst of Times, Splendour in the Grass, and toured with Skeggs, The Creases, Japandroids and Grinspoon. Facebook here.

Persuasive vocals, intriguing lyrics and delectable punk energy & attitude are carved deeply into 'Fishing With A Shotgun'. The video is another creative piece, just about keeping pace with this two & a half minute whirlwind of musical pleasure.


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FEVA - Blind.

Background - Newcastle indie quartet FEVA announce themselves with debut single Blind, a blistering, no-holds-barred introduction to a band who’re already drumming up plenty of attention across the UK.

With a flurry of demos surfacing online in recent months, the Geordie newcomers have been steadily building up their live reputation with appearances at the likes of Neighbourhood Festival, Hit The North and Stockton Calling, alongside support slots with acts including Anteros, Catholic Action and The Pale White.

Early support on the airwaves from Huw Stephens (BBC Radio 1) has already sparked substantial interest in the four-piece, comprising of Sam Reynolds (lead vocals, guitar), James Gibbons (lead guitar, vocals), Danny Castro (drums) and Thomas Errington (bass), and with further releases and live shows in the works, FEVA are primed to gain a plethora of new fans. 

FEVA’s Blind is released today 18th October and will be available on all platforms. Facebook here.

The vocals are distinct and powerful giving 'Blind' some real edge from the very beginning. Not to be left out the band deliver some potent & robust rock energy and the harmonies send the song into overdrive.

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Tuesday, 17 October 2017

Astrid Swan - Lauran Hibberd - Scott Ruthenberg - TYA

Astrid Swan - Dreaming Is Dangerous.

Background - Astrid Swan's latest album From the Bed and Beyond (released early spring 2017 via Soliti) has been a substantial critical and commercial success. It's been further enhanced by successful festival appearances at Flow, Sideways, Provinssi and Tallinn Music Week to name a few. In addition to festivals, a run of special shows has created a deep connection with audiences who have responded deeply to the album's themes and powerful visual presentation. 

From The Bed and Beyond is an album about the aftermath of breast cancer. It is about the body; giving birth, becoming a mother, then becoming a patient – becoming a physical body that is defined by medicine, controlled and intervened, unknown and simultaneously more feeling than ever. It’s a pop record about loss, death, grief and hope.

It's Astrid's most personal and important album of music to date. Shortly after the release of the album Astrid Swan was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, which as well as delivering extra poignancy and emotional pull to the concerts surrounding the album, created different challenges as Swan negotiated treatments and the live-stage. At the time of writing hope wins out. 

Against this backdrop, we're more than happy to reveal an unreleased track from the album,  'Dreaming Is Dangerous'  – which drops via all digital services on the 20th of October.

"'Dreaming is Dangerous' was recorded for From the Bed and Beyond, but it was left out to make the album more succinct. Here it is now for your autumn evenings. It's a song calling for a better treatment of yourself: take care, dream, live now, be kind to yourself and others –– do not mistake yourself for one moment for a stone, not even rose quartz. With this release, I'd like to say thanks for the year 2017, the amazing support and communication I've had with so many people about life and music. It has been a year of magic and a year of pain." Astrid. Web-blog here, Facebook here.

Astrid Swan's enchanting vocals on 'Dreaming Is Dangerous' dance above a refined piano lead musical arrangement that occasionally bursts with power. Even when that music surges her vocals are equal for the challenge. Anymore unreleased tracks of this calibre will be more than welcome.

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Lauran Hibberd - Eliza.

Background - Earlier this month, Lauran Hibberd performed on the main stage at Bestival 2017. Her newest song, “Eliza” belongs in an indie movie soundtrack for the little voice in your head. In the screen-less moments of our daily routines, our thoughts entertain our busy brains. Without earbuds, you might find yourself chanting “E-L-I-Z-A” and humming the chorus just like you would for the White Stripes’ “Hotel Yorba.”

The energetic guitar riffs, walking organ notes and steady beat complement Lauran’s voice like Zooey Deschanel in She & Him. One can easily imagine the song in a fun coming of age film like 500 Days of Summer that also boasts an impressive soundtrack. In “Eliza,” the lyrics explore a sense of self that comes from the choices we make. Lauran names her conscience Eliza. She wonders what others would think of the girl who lives in the back of her mind. Who is really in control? This song encourages listeners to think about how choices define our character and our relationships.

“For me, Eliza is a soundtrack. It’s the dancing around in your room when your alone, the song you brush your teeth to in the morning. It’s coming of age, it’s fun, it’s young and it’s brash. It’s ignorantly honest, and represents my generation and the world I live in (all of it’s faults included). I wrote the song about the little voice we all have in the back of our minds, and I just happened to name mine Eliza.” Facebook here.

We featured Lauran Hibberd back in August describing the previous track as "one fabulous vibrant and lovable song." With the new share entitled 'Eliza' we have a second "fabulous vibrant and lovable song" and some!

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Scott Ruthenberg - Know You Better (Feat. Grace Canny).

Background - Scott Ruthenberg is a singer/songwriter from the Western Australian suburb of Fremantle. At the ripe age of 28, Scott has finally released his debut single titled 'Know You Better' - a song he initially penned five years ago, in 2012. The single is about being honest and open and those people in life that know you so well that you feel they know you better than you know yourself. 

Through conversation with an ex-workmate came the birth of 'Know You Better'. "I was having a conversation with my workmate at the time who was telling me about how much of a struggle their life had been recently, and the frankness of the conversation really struck me," says Scott. "I appreciated and admired the rawness and honesty of what she had to say because so often we just mask the fact that everything is fine, even when it's not. I empathized with her and gave her some advice and at the end of it she said it was as if I knew her better than she did". 

Scott's soft and silky vocals intertwine effortlessly with the simplistic melody in the track almost as if he has taken a leaf out of James Blunt's book. The instrumentals and composition of this song are beautiful and compliment his vocals creating a soothing, calm, harmonious emotion. Looking ahead and moving to the next phase is Scott's focus with plans for a new single to be released in early 2018 followed by an EP in April and supporting it with some live shows across the country. Facebook here.

'Know You Better' is a delightful pop song with a hint or two of folk vibes along the way. The dual vocals are charming, the music just right & when the string arrangement unfolds, the track becomes complete, completely beautiful that is.

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TYA - Hustle.

Background - TYA effortlessly stand out with their own spin of delicate sensual textures, ambient sounds and cinematic builds, winning the hearts of their followers with their fresh melodies, honest lyrical expressions and the way they engage with their instruments, each other and their audience. 

After finding success in Far North Queensland at a young age; releasing a full-length album featuring other FNQ acts such as Emma Louise & The Medics, supporting and touring with the likes of Wolfmother, Sheppard, Eskimo Joe, Bluejuice, Ball Park Music, The Jungle Giants, The Belligerents and Birds of Tokyo to name a few, the group decided it was time to explore their sound and head south. 

Over the following 12 months, Sony, Casey, Peter and Reece would go through many personal challenges that moulded them into an impassioned, persistent and excellence driven team, evolving their sound and brand into what is now TYA. 

The second single from their debut EP No Money, More Love, only reaffirms TYA's new direction. Hustle eloquently incorporates a delicious concoction of guitar tones, punchy drum sounds and catchy lead vocal melody that is sure to be stuck in the listeners head for days on end. 

Hustle recounts the story of a significant period in every one of the band members lives that occurred during 2016 and tackles strong themes such as drug addiction and self-image. This time brought them closer as a band and friends and shaped their lives dramatically. Facebook here

'Hustle' is the second single from the bands 'No Money, More Love' EP. It is typical of the overall quality to be found in this collection of music. The band drift between indie pop and rock with imaginative and finely produced material, where catchy melodic hooks are everywhere.

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Monday, 16 October 2017

Adam & Elvis - Cara Salimando

Adam & Elvis - Modern Hitz / Thick Bob.

Background - The Reading (Berkshire, UK) band have performed their adventurous, singularly intense live shows on the same bill as Fat White Family, The Zombies and The Correspondents, and garnered resounding praise for their blistering debut single, ‘Hanging Tree’, taken from their first long-player, Through Snow and Small Talk, to be released on the band’s own DIY Freak Power label in the autumn of 2017. It’s an album fizzing with ideas and energy, capturing Adam & Elvis in all their irreverent, witty and experimental glory, the sound of a group that have come of age and are proving as hard to pigeonhole as they are to ignore.

About ‘Modern Hitz’ We’ve all been there. Another Saturday night enduring identikit clubs, watery drinks and cheesy chart music in the vain hope of stumbling across a special someone. It’s a state of affairs that Adam & Elvis sum up with characteristically mischievous prose in ‘Modern Hitz’, inspired, as vocalist Patrick Malone explains, “by times I have crossed my fingers queueing for a club, hoping the music isn’t depressing and the company isn't awful”. At the heart of the song’s intoxicating blend of carnivalesque power pop, new-wave funk, silvery synth and quivering guitar stands a hooky chorus that candidly summarises Patrick’s nightlife desires: “Please can I have a kiss/What the hell do you think I’m dancing for?”


About ‘Thick Bob’ Inspired by an Edgar Allan Poe short story where a son kills his mother to keep all the buried treasure for himself, ‘Thick Bob’ appropriately finds Adam & Elvis at their most overtly Gothic to date. Channelling late-period Damned, the song is all jagged hammer-ons, squalling lead, tumbling drums and a vocal delivery that’s equal parts melodrama and menace. The shock contrast of the summery chorus and warped instrumental break only serves to further the sense of unease – and that’s before the Hitchcockian string stabs kick in. ‘Thick Bob’ is a rare beast that puts both a spring in your step and a shiver down your spine. Facebook here.

We featured 'She Bites Mosquitoes' from the new album in September and now have two more songs from the collection, along with the back drop for both tracks above. The album comprising of ten songs, sees the band mix elements of personal incite, outside the box opinions and a level of surreal beauty that is addictive and occasionally challenging. Whilst I might not agree with all of their thoughts, the album is impressive, full of mischief and a fabulous listen.


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Cara Salimando - Nothing's Gonna Hurt You Baby.

Background - Cara Salimando is a singer, songwriter from New Jersey, currently based in Los Angeles. She is signed to Sony/ATV for publishing and as a writer has penned hits for the likes of Tinashe, Sabrina Carpenter, Hey Violet, Grace Mitchell, Jarina DeMarco, Whissell, Soliddisco, Grace Sewell, Lia Marie Johnson as well as co-writing songs like Kesha's "Hymn" and Dua Lipa's "Begging". Cara is the major labels' go to for effortless cool.

With her first release since 2013 - 'Nothing's Going To Hurt You Baby' is a serene cover of the Cigarettes After Sex classic. Cara noted,  "This was the first song I'd ever heard by Cigarettes After Sex; lyrically this song is so vivid and nostalgic in all the right ways, something I definitely admire about their work in general. My frequent collaborator Bram Inscore and I got to try our hand at making our own version of it and I think the lyric is painted a little differently with a female voice on it, yet the softness remains. Super versatile wording is the mark of great writing. "

The song was produced by Bram Inscore who who co-wrote/produced half of the last Troye Sivan record and whose other accolades include Bipolar Sunshine, Twin Shadow, Hayley Kiyoko, Jr Jr, Mayor Hawthorne and many more. 'Nothing's Gonna Hurt You Baby' will be featured on We Are: The Guard's Volume 1 compilation, alongside others like DENM. Facebook here.

Dreamy and emotive vocals alongside an expansive and dramatic musical backdrop makes 'Nothing's Gonna Hurt You Baby' a compelling listen. As cover versions go, this is a very fine example of how to make it your own, doing so with style and depth.


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Sunday, 15 October 2017

Principe Valiente - Darling West - Philippa Hanna - Pollens

Principe Valiente - Running Juveniles.

Background - Principe Valiente’s “Running Juveniles” music video is here: a pure celebration of youth and life. The homonymous song is the third single to be released from the band’s most anticipated latest album “Oceans”. Shot around Östermalm in Stockholm, the video was filmed & edited by the Swedish filmmaker Andreas Hillerborg.

After an outstanding self-titled debut album in 2011 and the breathtaking „Choirs Of Blessed Youth“ in 2014, the Swedish post punk / shoegaze band lead by Fernando Honorato, true to their vision, continues to carve out its own unique musical path. Drawing inspiration from ambient experimentalists like Cocteau Twins, 80's sci-fi soundtracks as well as exuberant vocalists like Bowie and Kate Bush, Principe Valiente ventured deeper into the sonic landscapes of their minds.

The intensity of the athmospheric sound and the interplay of melodic guitar strings, the dark drifting drums, rhythmic bass lines and above all the warm, emotional voice of the singer, have remained. The listener is captured in a mixture of longing and loneliness, which is fluently and hypnotically directed. Calm pieces alternate with energetic compositions, such as the recently released single "Strangers In The Night", and give the album a strong note of ambivalence.

With their third work „Oceans“, the band has created another alluring world with "human, all too human" lyrics and phantasmagorical soundscapes. Cool, yet impassioned and loaded with sweet anxiety, Principe Valiente have managed to make an irresistibly beautiful and intense continuation of what was started in the previous two albums.Website here, Facebook here.

We featured Principe Valiente back in April with a previous song share from their 'Oceans' album. Now we have the new video for 'Running Juveniles'. This is a powerful and atmospheric piece which combines a subtle melody delivered with layer upon layer of musical sounds, along with passionate and striking vocals.


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Darling West - Traveller.

Background - Darling West release a video for their new single "Traveller." The last twelve months of Darling West’s musical career can't be described as anything other than fantastic. Since the release of their second album, "Vinyl And A Heartache", they have played concerts all over the world. 

The band have been play-listed on the biggest radio stations in Norway, appeared on the Top 100 Country charts in the US, amassed more than 2.5 million plays on Spotify, been booked for the biggest festivals in Norway, Americanafest in Nashville, and won a Norwegian Grammy.

Despite all this, the band have no plans of resting on their laurels, and now they’re releasing another new track from a new album they plan to release in early 2018. 

This is the sound of a new and revitalised Darling West. The band are still playing their sweet americana / country / folk, but there’s a lot more drive in the music and the melodies are catchier than before. Facebook here.

It's our second feature for Darling West following on from the track 'After My Time' which we carried back in July. We now have the song 'Traveller'. Once again we have a beautifully melodic piece with those Americana musical flavours and gorgeous vocals & harmonies. 


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Philippa Hanna - Off the Wagon.

Background - Philippa Hanna is returning to the spotlight with her brand new album Come Back Fighting. Most of her sixth studio album was written in Nashville, and she has brought together a range of pop, country and gospel influences, assembling an impressive collection of musicians. With features from BBC Radio 2 presenter Paul Jones on harmonica, world-champion banjo player John Dowling and a leading UK gospel choir.

Working with long-term collaborators guitarist Roo Walker and manager Andy Baker, the production has a fresh and unique flavour that won't leave fans disappointed.

The album is set for release on 24th November, amidst Philippa opening a formidable 29 date UK tour for BGT winning vocal group Collabro which will be coming through your way.

From the acoustic-reggae infused Dorothy to the hard hitting bluesy title track Come Back Fighting, listeners can expect to be drawn into the storytelling narrative that has put Hanna on the singer/songwriter map. The album succeeds in catering for an incredibly broad fan-base that has seen the Sheffield singer open tours for the likes of Lionel Richie, Little Mix, Leona Lewis, Anastacia, and Marti Pellow. Website here, Facebook here, tour details on Beehive Candy's tour news page.

'Off The Wagon' mixes traditional country music, gospel style chorus lines, alongside an upbeat modern feel where the pop sensibilities ensure the hooks are sharp and dig in deep. Refreshing and energised if you cannot tap your feet or sing along to this, you might be in need of a holiday.


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Pollens - Words.

Background - Take experimental rock blended with minimalist avant-pop and art-punk elements, and you've got the beginnings of NYC's group Pollens. Quirky, weird, and in a league of their own, they released their first single "Words" today, off their upcoming EP Mister Manufacture. Pollens sound is like no other blending electronic dance beats, ambient noise, and shouting into infectiously catchy and cleverly woven melodies. "Words" is a untraditional yet uniquely hooky tune, building into a steady earworm.

The band breaks down the lyrics, "It's a little anthem for how a monster gets to be a monster.. because we're not listening... especially in the summer, and at any time that precedes kissing. All the tells and omens stack up as promises rather than warnings. And for all the reasons we shouldn't, we must... I could tell you all of this upfront, and instead of being afraid, you'll probably be endeared to my disclosure. It's not a trick, but it is a trap." Written in minimalistic songwriting style, it's an attention grabbing example of "less is more".

"Words" comes as the first single off the group's upcoming EP Mister Manufacture, out October 27. It will be available for free in digital format; with limited edition cassette tapes available from the band at their record release celebration show on November 16 at Secret Project Robot in NYC. They'll be joined by Operator Music Band, Salt People and a special guest (to be announced); full details on Facebook here.

If you are in need of something a little different then 'Words' has plenty of that. This is fabulously quirky, massively addictive and an absolute gem of a song. Lets add in sumptuous and resplendent to make the point!

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Saturday, 14 October 2017

The Rebel Light - WYO - LUKA - Area Resident

The Rebel Light - Where Did All The Love Go.

Background from The Rebel Light - We wanted to share with you our new music video for our song 'Where Did All The Love Go', If trippy psychedelic vibes is your thing then this is your jam. 

Also, KCSN in Los Angeles and EQX in Vermont just added ‘Where Did All The Love Go’ into rotation. Both stations play some of the best damn tunes on FM radio, So naturally, we were pretty excited to hear that our song has been added to their playlists.

Los Angeles trio The Rebel Light have already been turning heads on both sides of the Atlantic. This exciting new band’s sound already oozes a confidence that feels both effortlessly fresh yet wonderfully familiar. The Rebel Light have already pulled in comparisons to bands such as The Shins and Temples and draw heavily on their influence of the sun drenched sound of 60’s California pop. Website here, Facebook here.


It has been over a year since we first featured The Rebel Light, with the track 'Where Did All The Love Go'. Well they now have a music video for the song and as they are also getting noticed on FM radio I thought it deserved a second share. Upbeat and with a hippy, trippy, sunny feel, let it brighten up your day!

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WYO - Falling.

Background - Indie rock outfit, WYO, is back with the second single from the forthcoming record, Untamed.  This driving, powerful track titled "Falling", describes a bittersweet romance that is not destined to last.

Indie rock band WYO found its roots in a small town south of Yellowstone National Park.  Inspired by the surrounding natural beauty, singer-songwriter Andy Sorge utilizes an organic instrument palette to create the soundscape that is WYO.

After attending film school in New York, Andy met multi-instrumentalist, Scott McKay Gibson, and the two began composing music for documentaries, commercials, and short films together in Wyoming. Perhaps this explains the reason that WYO's music has a way of evoking such striking visuals that stir the imagination. The pair began delving into Andy's original songs that would soon become this debut album. They teamed up with Los Angeles-based producer, Brad Wood, to provide a fresh ear to finalize their work.

WYO intends on releasing their debut full-length, Untamed, worldwide early next year, website here.


'Falling' is a smooth indie rocker with vibrant guitars and a driving beat. Add in the refined vocals and the melodic hooks and we arrive with a fine teaser for next years debut album.

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LUKA - Quick Reflex.

Background - What is “quick reflex”? It’s words written on a baseball-cap that my brother used to wear. A couple years ago I started wearing it and not knowing what the phrase referred to, I started to imagine the hat as a time machine. The song travels through the ‘20-something autumn moons’ of my childhood. In the pauses between the lyrics, I see flashes of my brothers and I making films, practicing kung-fu moves, and all the imaginary landscapes of my youth." - Luke Kuplowsky

What Kind of Animal  an 8-song collection of poetic musings is out November 28, 2017. The first single from What Kind of Animal is the beguiling “Quick Reflex”, an airy and loping anthem for the suburbs of Etobicoke, Ontario. Recalling the patient and deadpan delivery of Leonard Cohen and Bill Callahan, Kuplowsky’s gentle croon is deceptively tuneful and melodic.

The song pairs a lilting tropicalila beat with Kuplowsky’s signature nylon string guitar, tracing a string of fragmented memories from a childhood baseball cap. With a nostalgic gaze, Kuplowsky muses on one’s relationship to physical artifacts and their connection to one’s sense of identity and history (“In the bosom / of my family home / ancient relics / seen twenty-something autumn moons / video camera / full as the memory put in ya”). 


LUKA is the project of Canadian singer-songwriter Luke Kuplowsky and his collaborators. Guided by the nuanced production of Stephen Prickett and percussionist Evan Cartwright (Tasseomancy, Andy Shauf), LUKA is defined as much by its unique lyrical voice as it’s constant exploration of folk, pop and experimental traditions. Bandcamp here, Facebook here.

The vocals are central to 'Quick Reflex' as they feel so personal and honest. The musical arrangement is also beautifully structured and the accompanying harmonies add even more beauty to the song.

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Area Resident -- Riverside.

Background from Area Resident - This new music was recorded at home between split shifts -- I’m a traffic reporter with CBC Ottawa. 

Many songs draw from my experiences as a journalist for more than two decades -- stories I’ve covered, murders, runaway wallabies, a man who smuggled gold out of the Mint in his bum, etc…

This track in particular is inspired by the home I grew up in along the Ottawa River in Pembroke, it’s mostly about all the mistakes you make and how you never want to admit to learning from them.

Did you know? Delano was US President Roosevelt’s middle name. Roosevelt is my favourite president. I really enjoyed writing these and hope you enjoy listening. Bandcamp here, Facebook here.


'Riverside' is a fine alt/indie rock song which grows in power and is produced to a very high standard. Each musical element is distinct, the vocals add some melodic vibes, & there is an air of fresh enthusiasm about the track.

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Friday, 13 October 2017

The Begowatts - Lower Pink - VanWyck - Mean Motor Scooter - Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah - Warbly Jets

The Begowatts - Grand Charade (EP).

Background - The Begowatts craft a distinctive blend of rock & roll, rooted in deep 70’s grooves with an ear toward modern atmospheric aesthetics. Formed in 2012 in Madison, Wisconsin, the band built buzz across the Midwest and honed their live presence through relentless touring and Pabst Blue Ribbon consumption. Along the way, the foursome’s sound evolved at a steady clip. While early Begowatts paid faithful homage to classic rock, the band has matured toward a tighter, more immediate fusion of old and new which they christen, “21st century electric rock & roll.”

Within a short time they went from packing basement parties to being the house band at Madison’s world famous Bike Shop and released their self-titled EP in 2015. The EP’s response gave the band the confidence they needed to pony up for a professionally recorded full length debut, and in June of 2016 they released the LP, Photoelectric, to glowing reviews and nominations for the Madison Area Music Awards “Alternative Album” and “Alternative Performer of the Year.”

The group’s sophomore effort, Grand Charade, is scheduled for release this September. Written during the whirlwind of the 2016 election, their new tunes reflect the great division they bore witness to. Songs like the Clash-esque “Kids On Parole” hark back to the politically-charged rock of the late 70’s, while the closing number "You & I" is drenched in dreamlike tension and disillusion, conjuring up a decidedly brooding Twin Peaks vibe. Yet throughout it all, the sound remains undeniably their own in its signature exuberant, carefree coolness. Begofans will find that the group has grown leaps and bounds on Grand Charade, refining their sound and emerging as new contender in the current post-punk scene. Website here, Facebook here.

Six tracks make up 'Grand Charade' an EP we can feature in full. They describe their music as "21st century rock & roll" which seems a more than reasonable summary of the music. Each song has it's hooks, the music is very well crafted and the vocals have plenty of real rock edge. As a whole this is a very likable collection of natural modern rock & roll.


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Lower Pink - Young.

Background - We have the new song "Young" from one of Switzerland's finest Lower Pink. The Swiss music press delivers one rave review after another about the independent troubadour. 

“His intimate & dreamy songs barely let us breathe.”  SRF3 – biggest public radio of Switzerland. “Everything about the songs seems authentic.” Tages Anzeiger

It is not by chance, that we read & hear such praise. “Lower Pink” achieved the creation of his own atmosphere on his new single “Young” – and he fills this atmosphere with voice, synths & spherical pads. On the climax, the song literally erupts over the listener, just to leave behind a barren silence and to disappear. Immediately, his warm voice finds time & space again. 

“Young” is a listening experience and the video, which you can find attached to this, is painting a euphoric feeling through impressive pictures and an unagitated storyline – leaving behind an echo. The video has been shot in the Swiss alps transmits in images, what the music lets us feel: Distance and vicinity – for once unisono. Website here.

As the song gently develops it's the vocals that standout and rightly so. 'Young' is a song where the atmosphere expands beautifully, the music adds some extra layers, however it's the voice that resonates and demands another listen.


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VanWyck - An Average Woman.

Background - Amsterdam singer songwriter, VanWyck, follows up the 2016 single that KCRW’s Chris Douridas called “exquisite” with her new single,“An Average Woman”. The title track is off the album due out on January 19 on Maiden Name Records. Hauntingly atmospheric and melodious, the songs on the album unravel in a spiral of smoky soulful vocals aching with lyrical precision of stories untold. 

An Average Woman is about women who are visible and hidden, sacrificing and selfish, ordinary and magical, obligated and free. It's about the mysteries lurking in the everyday. It's about creating your own universe and your own sense of belonging - and stumbling along the way. 

The lead single is about being braver, bolder, and sometimes selfish. Written in the past tense, it’s almost like a funeral song, burying the average woman in order for the creative woman to emerge. VanWyck says, “Both my grandmothers were strong women (a nurse and a teacher) who came from very humble backgrounds and had to work hard and take care of children. 

Being creative was a luxury that was often not allowed to them. Being in the foreground was also not something they were allowed to aspire to. One of my grandmothers was very inspirational in making me reach higher and to put all my talents to work. I keep her picture as a young girl on my desktop to remind me of the chances she never had and the way she pushed me to reach higher.” Website here., Facebook here.

A slow bluesy vibe is there from the beginning on 'An Average Woman'. VanWyck's vocals are melodic, sensitive and carry some notable emotion. The musical arrangement develops adding even more to a gorgeous soulful song.

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Mean Motor Scooter - Sea Serpent.

Background - Mean Motor Scooter are a fuzzed up, farfed out, Fort Worth quartet of psych-garage goodness firmly rooted in the Texas traditions of The Butthole Surfers, The Dicks, and Roky Erickson with a tab of Scratch Acid. The band was founded in 2015 by singer and guitar player Sammy Kidd, drummer Jeffrey Friedman and bassist Joe Tacke and almost instantly became overnight local and statewide sensations. The trio played 31 shows in 2015 throughout Texas, including shows at the Dallas Music District Festival, with bands like Leopold and His Fiction and Aaron Behrens. 

Mean Motor Scooter released its self-titled EP in August of 2015, which was put out on a limited edition cassette by Dreamy Life Records. In 2016, the band continued the momentum, playing 48 shows, including three unofficial showcases for SXSW and Oaktopia, the Fort Worth Weekly Music Awards Festival, Fort Worth Rock Assembly V and legendary Dallas venue, Trees. In April, Mean Motor Scooter released the singles, “Naked Brunch” and “Such a Seducer,” which received a lot of positive local press and were mentioned in some Best of 2016 lists.

That same year, the Fort Worth Weekly awarded Mean Motor Scooter “Rock Band of the Year.” Mean Motor Scooter began recording their first full-length album, Hindu Flying Machine at Cloudland Recording Studio in Fort Worth, October 2016. During that time they we asked to record songs for both the Dreamy Life Records’ Group Therapy Vol. 4 compilation and the Fort Worth Weekly’s Frequencies Vol. 8, the Fort Worth Weekly Music Awards’ compilation. The group recorded “Mechanical Man” for Group Therapy Vol. 4 and “Surfing Pizza” for Frequencies Vol. 8. Both were released in 2017.

Before finishing the recording of Hindu Flying Machine the trio decided it was time to bring in another member. Rebekah Elizabeth (I Happy Am) was added on the combo organ. Mean Motor Scooter played their 100th live show in July of 2017, at the newly opened Main at South Side. In June the band was awarded “E.P. of the Year,” “Band of the Year” and “Artist of the Year” by Fort Worth Weekly. Hindu Flying Machine will be released in October 2017 by Dirty Water Records USA and the band will be touring in November with The Darts and Escobar. Facebook here.

Psych garage with just a hint of insanity ensures 'Sea Serpent' a timeless feast of music registers within a nano second. Play it loud & leap about!

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Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah - The Cypher.

Background - Grammy nominated trumpeter, composer, and producer Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah will release the third installment of a trio of albums commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first jazz recordings. Collectively titled The Centennial Trilogy, the final album in the series The Emancipation Procrastination will be released on October 20th via Ropeadope.

The Emancipation Procrastination the third and final chapter in the trilogy deals directly with the social and political issues of the day. Rather than descend into identity politics, Adjuah sees many disparate cultures in New Orleans being underserved and exploited. This worldview transcends New Orleans, as Christian has traveled and toured the world for almost 20 years, starting as a child and performing with extraordinary players (McCoy Tyner, Donald Harrison, Eddie Palmieri).

The scope of The Centennial Trilogy is not limited to the music; Adjuah uses broad strokes to present his vision of the world. Growing up in New Orleans' Upper Ninth Ward, he witnessed people enduring the same challenges regardless of their race or ethnic background: He saw a community of people undereducated to serve the tourist culture, facing food insecurity, yet viewing each other as different through the lens of race. Seeing this around him, Adjuah came to understand that race is a social construct, and that people could work together to build and move forward.

"I’m not interested in harming anyone," Adjuah says. "I have a responsibility as an artist to create a space where people feel welcome. When I walk outside this hotel room, that is not the reality. There is a difference when music is made with love. When people come into my space they are going to feel that. We are trying to figure out a way to treat each other better. We are all responsible for healing each other.”

The vision of Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah is clear – that this is an opportunity for all of US to come together and address issues that affect ALL of us. Emancipation Procrastination means that we all have an opportunity to liberate ourselves from old world ideas. Let the healing begin. Website here, Facebook here.

Whilst Jazz is not a genre that often appears on Beehive Candy, when the music is this good it would be a crime of sorts not to feature it. 'The Cypher' is a superb track where for me some fairly cliche images come to mind, a hot late night urban scenario for example. When I hear music this good I feel I should know a lot more about the genre, perhaps one day...

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Warbly Jets - Ride.

Background - Warbly Jets play synth-driven guitar rock that is a genre-bending blend of punk balladry, wide-screen production and unflinching attitude. The LA quartet will release its self-titled debut album on October 20 but this week they debut the genre-bending churner, "Ride".

Despite a lack of allegiance to any sound or place, since the release of their debut single "Alive", the slithering music industry indictment "The Lowdown", the hip-swaying "4th Coming Bomb" and the maniacle "Shapeshifter", the four piece has grown explosively and earned praise from a number of music sites, radio and the press. The band is climbing the charts at Spotify, VEVO and Apple Music and were announced this morning in the first round of performers for SXSW 2018.

Warbly Jets just completed a massive European tour, including dates with Rival Sons and are returning home to LA for an album release show at The Moroccan Lounge next Thursday, October 19. They then head to Vegas to showcase at Emerge in November. Website here, Facebook here.

I was impressed by Warbly Jets back in July when we first featured them. 'Ride' is another fabulous genre defying song that is loosely alt rock based, the band have psychedelic vibes and the music just gets better!

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LeVolume - Clint Wilson - Pam Ross - Chad Price Peace Coalition

LeVolume - LeVolume (Album). LeVolume is a new project for its members Jenny Whiteley, Joey Wright and Julian Brown. "That Was Then, T...