Dyan - Absence.
Background - "Absence is about leaving, but not before inquiring about doubt." the band explain. "It could be about being in love with a person whose loyalty is to someone or something else, realizing it, and then you move on. Or holding on to what you want to hold on to, even if it's painful."
Minimal, inventive, and introspective, Dyan’s music offers more than you’d typically expect from the now-common guitar/synths/drums trio - which makes sense, as the trio is about as uncommon as you’ll find. Dyan was started by Alexis Marsh (singer/guitarist/bassist) and Sam Jones (guitarist/synths), a film scoring duo who fell in love and got married...and then, perhaps unexpectedly, got divorced. The growing and healing from those divides fueled the songs on what became the group’s debut album, Looking For Knives, which the two continued to create despite the fraught emotional territory. But the real twist was the addition of the third member: Dan Dorff Jr. (drums/synths), whom Alexis had started seeing in the meantime. Born of an old creative partnership, an expired romance, a new love, and an unlikely new friendship, Dyan defies all odds by simply being, and further shatters expectations with poignancy, unity, and optimism.
Since their debut album, Dyan released the single “What Fiction Is For,” which stayed on Spotify’s Ultimate Indie playlist for 16 weeks. With the upcoming release of a new EP, titled Absence, and a cover of the Jose Gonzalez song “Cycling Trivialities”, Dyan shows no sign of slowing down, which means even if we can’t hope to navigate complicated relationships with their deft maturity, at least we’ll have their music to help guide our way. TWITTER.
In the few days that 'Absense' has been streaming it's already gained considerable attention, and that is hardly surprising. This is a refined and flowing indie song that has so much going for it. What on the surface seems to be a simple enough musical arrangement, manages to overflow with feeling and warmth. The vocals delicately entice you in further, as Dyan deliver one gorgeous track.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guerilla Toss - Meteorological.
Background - Guerilla Toss has announced its third LP for DFA, Twisted Crystal, due Sept. 14. The video for the album's first single, "Meteorological" was made by Giraffe Studios.
Analog synthesizers give tangible life to the works of Guerilla Toss. Whether it be the sound of a rocket ship, a kitten-with-a-wah, distorted dolphins, or a clavichord made out of honey-baked ham, the band consistently finds new ways to bring together the many ideas that combine to shape each new batch of art-rock puzzle pieces.
Twisted Crystal, Guerilla Toss’ new LP, feels more personal than ever for the band. Angular yet irresistibly catchy, this collection of pop songs pulls influence from powerful groups like The Slits, ESG, Gina X, and early Madonna, with sing-speak vocals from Kassie Carlson nodding to legendary artists like Laurie Anderson, Grace Jones, and Lizzy Mercier Descloux – combining this all into a twisted, crystalline concoction.
Oracles and enigmatic egos are common lyrical themes, but charismatic instrumentality springs the listener back to extraterrestrial comfort. Old favorite sounds ring true from the trusty Sequential Circuits Six Track Synthesizer and Clavia Drum Machine. New, more refined sounds are molded and polished by drummer/producer Peter Negroponte, whose passion for perfection and creation goes far beyond an all-consuming Tetris effect. Peter has truly excelled on this new recording, creating a complex networks of beats and sound that become easily intertwined with the rhythmic fabric of life. WEBSITE.
Rhythmic and shall I say, just a little off-centre, 'Meteorological' is quirky, in a wonderful way. The video only adds to the alternative and zany vibes, this is addictive, uplifting and pretty much impossible to sit still to!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lewisburg - Wasted / Clear The Air.
Background - “Wasted feels so bittersweet to me. Bitter in that it draws from the sadness of nostalgia, but also is about finding the courage to walk your own path, no matter your doubts. Clear The Air is about how things are a bit screwed, it's basically saying we gotta get out of this mess of a society we've created for ourselves.”
Lewisburg are a band from North London born out of the solo project of singer-songwriter Ali Robertson. Described as dark-country they are influenced by acts such as Phosphorescent, Eels and The Deep Dark Woods. The band craft mellifluous, nostalgic songs with occasional widescreen sensibilities.
Through Lewisburgs’ previous release ‘Slow Morning / Terminal’ the band received airplay on LA radio station KCRW, BBC6 Music and Amazing Radio and also earned plaudits from several online tastemakers. 4-Piece Lewisburg includes members Ali Robertson (guitar, lead vocal), Julien Baraness (lead guitar), Alessandro Taglione (bass) and Adrien Latge (drums)
The double A-Side was recorded early this year in the band’s own studio in Haringey, North London. They favour a quick, predominantly live way of recording. ‘For us this is the best way to do it. We work fast, we try to retain the human element in our recordings wherever possible.’ Lewisburg are currently putting the finishing touches to a pending EP which will be released in the autumn.
Lewisburg new double A-Side ‘Wasted / Clear The Air’ might be from a North London based band, however their sound easily crosses the Atlantic and would be comfortably conceived in the home of Americana. Described in part as dark country, the bands music is so full of hooks and quality, putting their music into any one or two categories, seems to short change them.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, 21 July 2018
Friday, 20 July 2018
Treetop Flyers - Super Paradise - Andy Pratt - Delta Will
Treetop Flyers - Sweet Greens & Blues.
Background - "Sweet Greens and Blues" is the new single by Treetop Flyers, which is taken from their forthcoming eponymous third album, due out on 24 August via Loose. The video, directed by long-time collaborator Sam Ford, was shared by Folk Radio, who said;“The video has that vintage look and feel and it perfectly encapsulates that glorious 60s tinged West Coast Americana with a British twist. With warm, rich harmonies, and a summery groove, the song oozes soulfulness."
Originally formed by Reid Morrison, Laurie Sherman and Sam Beer, in recent years Treetop Flyers have settled in to a refreshed band line-up. “Sweet Greens & Blues” was initially recorded for their previous album Palamino, but it never really quite came together until new drummer Rupert Shreeve came on board and they were able to capture the feel of the song that they had been searching for. On the new record they are also joined by saxophonist Geoff Thomas Widdowson from Loose label mates Danny and The Champions Of The World.
Treetop Flyers follows the band’s two previous critically acclaimed albums, their debut The Mountain Moves from 2013, which was praised by The Guardian who wrote that it; “effortlessly captures the spirit of late-1960s west coast pop-rock: the Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young,” as well as Q, who wrote that they; “share with Midlake custody of a brood of Buckingham/Nicks-era Fleetwood Mac licks, likewise the Mac’s mood of unrequited yearning.” Their second album Palomino, from 2016 was praised by Uncut, who called it; “a fittingly great-sounding record, with the band magically tight and melodically assured as they play songs bathed in an evocative ’70s West Coast glow, while drawing on influences including outlaw country, soul and Nigerian psych.”
Whereas previous albums had been recorded either at their own Soup studios in London (where Sam works) or further afield in studios in Malibu and New York, this time round they headed to The Cube in Stoke Newington. A DIY studio and rehearsal space, it backs on to the sanding workshop of the London picture framers and fellow musicians Brider & Bull (The Wave Pictures, Surfing Magazines). They found that every time they set up for a recording session they would have to swab down the tape machine and sections of their equipment with contact cleaner to get rid of the sawdust. Thankfully, nothing exploded or caught fire and they eventually came out with something honest and fun. As Reid explains; “Stripping back the recording process and working within the limitations of our equipment and recording knowledge has created what we believe to be our most true to form record and has breathed new life into our music, which is one of the main reasons we have decide to simply call the album Treetop Flyers as we believe it represents a fresh start for the band.” WEBSITE.
Just over a month ago we shared 'Needle' from the band and the follow up song 'Sweet Greens & Blues' is another soulful gem. Mixing Americana with a touch of psych and drizzled with melodic hooks and warm vibes, this is a fabulous and beautiful piece as Treetop Flyers continue to impress in a big way!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Super Paradise - Sweat.
Background - Super Paradise’s new high-octane single ‘Sweat’ takes a more frenetic direction then their debut album. Its constantly shifting dynamics drop between almost silent verses with short blasts of energy to wall-of-sound crashing choruses.
The velocity of the tempo and the ferocity of the music makes ‘Sweat’ a fitting name for this volatile tune. The single launch party will be on the 24th July at The Waiting Room, London.
Born in Milan, now based in London, Super Paradise released their debut album Quencebo in 2016.
They have since been gigging constantly, played headline shows around London, toured festivals of Italy, supported Warbly Jets and Black Honey, recorded a new single in the Italian mountains and their music has been featured on the latest Ray Ban advert. Their self-defined genre of 'dream garage' builds on the edgy energy of the San Francisco psych scene and the soundscapes of New Order. BANDCAMP.
We have featured Super Paradise just once before back in late 2016, and they return with both power and pace as 'Sweat' demonstrates. Pausing for breath with the tiniest of refrains the song hurtles along with some fiery rock intensity, allowing the vocals to add just a little more smoothness to what is a raucous affair.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andy Pratt - Further Disruption (E.P).
Background - This is what was scribbled with a sharpie pen onto a CD of mixes handed to Andy on July 16th, 2016. After receiving an email from Pratt in January of the same year, legendary recording engineer Steve Albini quickly realized that he was not dealing with the Boston rock icon of the ‘70s, but a new & different Andy Pratt.
As a vocalist, guitarist, songwriter & photographer, Pratt loves the fuzz, blur, grain, & beautiful imperfections of live music and art. With an affinity for analog recording, vintage instruments, film cameras, string quartets, & brooding melodies, his music lives within a modern impressionist world of his own creation. Pratt is a storyteller who sings to clearly evoke a mood, space or time. With a dry vocal and reverberating guitar, he brings his listeners into the world he’s created.
The summer of 2018 finds Pratt on tour in support of his sophomore EP, “Further Disruption.” After handing his band members a few solo demos that he recorded on a 4-track Tascam cassette recorder, he knew that he’d want the same tape/analog sound on the final product. Pratt naturally sought out Steve Albini at Electrical Audio Studios in Chicago and asked him to track and mix the album. “Further Disruption” is a five song EP that is the follow-up to Pratt’s 2017 debut “Horizon Disrupted.” Recorded during the same session as Horizon and initially planned to be on the debut album, Pratt explains “I felt these songs deserved a separate documentation. They’re a little more gritty, rockin’ and down to earth than Horizon’s dreamy/ethereal feel.” With topics ranging from adultery, to alcoholism, to a girl obsessed with thrift shopping, the listener might wonder if this is the same Andy Pratt. The album features a classic vocals/guitar, bass, & drums trio. With the music, lyrics, arrangements & artwork for both albums all created by Pratt, there is a cohesive thread that ties these elements together, proving they are one & the same.
Andy Pratt is a Chicago-based singer-songwriter & jazz artist. He has toured across the country as both a leader and sideman. In 2017, Pratt toured the U.S. and Canada in support of his debut “Horizon Disrupted.” He can be found playing guitar & singing most nights throughout the city & Midwest region. Pratt is often a featured guest with the Joe Policastro Trio & appears on the group’s 2016 sophomore release, “Pops.” He has also recorded with singer-songwriter Adam James Sorensen & appears on his debut “Midwest” album, WEBSITE.
The 'Further Disruption' E.P provides a variety of musical styles that are centred around some moody, earnest and quite potent vocals. Musically this is a delight, as old school rock and roll vies with primitive beats and some darker, stripped back pieces. It all connects together well, and is encouragingly different, in a fine sort of way.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delta Will - Nothing Is Enough.
Background from Delta Will - The first single Nothing Is Enough, taken from the new Multitudes I EP, which we see as a continuation of our psych-pop, folk & soul influences.
We wrote “Nothing Is Enough” as a retro guitar-pop affair with big vocal harmonies and bouncy bass lines. Lyrically, it’s a more sombre affair that gives glimpses into our modern obsession with staring at screens.
The song grapples with our desire for perpetual happiness, and our tendency to hide our true feelings. We paired up with animator Mike Pereira to make a video that illustrates these themes in a playful satirical manner, definitely somewhat inspired by Terry Gilliam’s fantastical Monty Python animations.
Multitudes I is the first in a series of three EP’s we’ll be releasing over the next year. Delta Will has always had a somewhat eclectic sound, inspired by a wide range of music and this project was the perfect excuse to write songs that drill a little deeper into some genres we’ve always flirted with. Delta Will’s ‘Multitudes I’ EP is out July 27th. FACEBOOK.
'Nothing Is Enough' might have been intended to be something of a retro pop song, however it has plenty of fresh and appealing vibes and is beautifully constructed. Catchy and accompanied by an imaginative video, those forthcoming E.P's sound rather promising.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - "Sweet Greens and Blues" is the new single by Treetop Flyers, which is taken from their forthcoming eponymous third album, due out on 24 August via Loose. The video, directed by long-time collaborator Sam Ford, was shared by Folk Radio, who said;“The video has that vintage look and feel and it perfectly encapsulates that glorious 60s tinged West Coast Americana with a British twist. With warm, rich harmonies, and a summery groove, the song oozes soulfulness."
Originally formed by Reid Morrison, Laurie Sherman and Sam Beer, in recent years Treetop Flyers have settled in to a refreshed band line-up. “Sweet Greens & Blues” was initially recorded for their previous album Palamino, but it never really quite came together until new drummer Rupert Shreeve came on board and they were able to capture the feel of the song that they had been searching for. On the new record they are also joined by saxophonist Geoff Thomas Widdowson from Loose label mates Danny and The Champions Of The World.
Treetop Flyers follows the band’s two previous critically acclaimed albums, their debut The Mountain Moves from 2013, which was praised by The Guardian who wrote that it; “effortlessly captures the spirit of late-1960s west coast pop-rock: the Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young,” as well as Q, who wrote that they; “share with Midlake custody of a brood of Buckingham/Nicks-era Fleetwood Mac licks, likewise the Mac’s mood of unrequited yearning.” Their second album Palomino, from 2016 was praised by Uncut, who called it; “a fittingly great-sounding record, with the band magically tight and melodically assured as they play songs bathed in an evocative ’70s West Coast glow, while drawing on influences including outlaw country, soul and Nigerian psych.”
Whereas previous albums had been recorded either at their own Soup studios in London (where Sam works) or further afield in studios in Malibu and New York, this time round they headed to The Cube in Stoke Newington. A DIY studio and rehearsal space, it backs on to the sanding workshop of the London picture framers and fellow musicians Brider & Bull (The Wave Pictures, Surfing Magazines). They found that every time they set up for a recording session they would have to swab down the tape machine and sections of their equipment with contact cleaner to get rid of the sawdust. Thankfully, nothing exploded or caught fire and they eventually came out with something honest and fun. As Reid explains; “Stripping back the recording process and working within the limitations of our equipment and recording knowledge has created what we believe to be our most true to form record and has breathed new life into our music, which is one of the main reasons we have decide to simply call the album Treetop Flyers as we believe it represents a fresh start for the band.” WEBSITE.
Just over a month ago we shared 'Needle' from the band and the follow up song 'Sweet Greens & Blues' is another soulful gem. Mixing Americana with a touch of psych and drizzled with melodic hooks and warm vibes, this is a fabulous and beautiful piece as Treetop Flyers continue to impress in a big way!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Super Paradise - Sweat.
Background - Super Paradise’s new high-octane single ‘Sweat’ takes a more frenetic direction then their debut album. Its constantly shifting dynamics drop between almost silent verses with short blasts of energy to wall-of-sound crashing choruses.
The velocity of the tempo and the ferocity of the music makes ‘Sweat’ a fitting name for this volatile tune. The single launch party will be on the 24th July at The Waiting Room, London.
Born in Milan, now based in London, Super Paradise released their debut album Quencebo in 2016.
They have since been gigging constantly, played headline shows around London, toured festivals of Italy, supported Warbly Jets and Black Honey, recorded a new single in the Italian mountains and their music has been featured on the latest Ray Ban advert. Their self-defined genre of 'dream garage' builds on the edgy energy of the San Francisco psych scene and the soundscapes of New Order. BANDCAMP.
We have featured Super Paradise just once before back in late 2016, and they return with both power and pace as 'Sweat' demonstrates. Pausing for breath with the tiniest of refrains the song hurtles along with some fiery rock intensity, allowing the vocals to add just a little more smoothness to what is a raucous affair.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andy Pratt - Further Disruption (E.P).
Background - This is what was scribbled with a sharpie pen onto a CD of mixes handed to Andy on July 16th, 2016. After receiving an email from Pratt in January of the same year, legendary recording engineer Steve Albini quickly realized that he was not dealing with the Boston rock icon of the ‘70s, but a new & different Andy Pratt.
As a vocalist, guitarist, songwriter & photographer, Pratt loves the fuzz, blur, grain, & beautiful imperfections of live music and art. With an affinity for analog recording, vintage instruments, film cameras, string quartets, & brooding melodies, his music lives within a modern impressionist world of his own creation. Pratt is a storyteller who sings to clearly evoke a mood, space or time. With a dry vocal and reverberating guitar, he brings his listeners into the world he’s created.
The summer of 2018 finds Pratt on tour in support of his sophomore EP, “Further Disruption.” After handing his band members a few solo demos that he recorded on a 4-track Tascam cassette recorder, he knew that he’d want the same tape/analog sound on the final product. Pratt naturally sought out Steve Albini at Electrical Audio Studios in Chicago and asked him to track and mix the album. “Further Disruption” is a five song EP that is the follow-up to Pratt’s 2017 debut “Horizon Disrupted.” Recorded during the same session as Horizon and initially planned to be on the debut album, Pratt explains “I felt these songs deserved a separate documentation. They’re a little more gritty, rockin’ and down to earth than Horizon’s dreamy/ethereal feel.” With topics ranging from adultery, to alcoholism, to a girl obsessed with thrift shopping, the listener might wonder if this is the same Andy Pratt. The album features a classic vocals/guitar, bass, & drums trio. With the music, lyrics, arrangements & artwork for both albums all created by Pratt, there is a cohesive thread that ties these elements together, proving they are one & the same.
Andy Pratt is a Chicago-based singer-songwriter & jazz artist. He has toured across the country as both a leader and sideman. In 2017, Pratt toured the U.S. and Canada in support of his debut “Horizon Disrupted.” He can be found playing guitar & singing most nights throughout the city & Midwest region. Pratt is often a featured guest with the Joe Policastro Trio & appears on the group’s 2016 sophomore release, “Pops.” He has also recorded with singer-songwriter Adam James Sorensen & appears on his debut “Midwest” album, WEBSITE.
The 'Further Disruption' E.P provides a variety of musical styles that are centred around some moody, earnest and quite potent vocals. Musically this is a delight, as old school rock and roll vies with primitive beats and some darker, stripped back pieces. It all connects together well, and is encouragingly different, in a fine sort of way.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delta Will - Nothing Is Enough.
Background from Delta Will - The first single Nothing Is Enough, taken from the new Multitudes I EP, which we see as a continuation of our psych-pop, folk & soul influences.
We wrote “Nothing Is Enough” as a retro guitar-pop affair with big vocal harmonies and bouncy bass lines. Lyrically, it’s a more sombre affair that gives glimpses into our modern obsession with staring at screens.
The song grapples with our desire for perpetual happiness, and our tendency to hide our true feelings. We paired up with animator Mike Pereira to make a video that illustrates these themes in a playful satirical manner, definitely somewhat inspired by Terry Gilliam’s fantastical Monty Python animations.
Multitudes I is the first in a series of three EP’s we’ll be releasing over the next year. Delta Will has always had a somewhat eclectic sound, inspired by a wide range of music and this project was the perfect excuse to write songs that drill a little deeper into some genres we’ve always flirted with. Delta Will’s ‘Multitudes I’ EP is out July 27th. FACEBOOK.
'Nothing Is Enough' might have been intended to be something of a retro pop song, however it has plenty of fresh and appealing vibes and is beautifully constructed. Catchy and accompanied by an imaginative video, those forthcoming E.P's sound rather promising.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, 18 July 2018
Calva Louise - Lucky 757
Calva Louise - Outrageous
Background - Raucous garage rockers Calva Louise share the visuals for their deafening anthem Outrageous, further reiterating their unbridled potential ahead of a series of eagerly anticipated dates on the festival circuit throughout the summer months.
Having feverishly honed their craft within London’s thriving punk scene, the trio (one part Venezuelan, one part Māori and another part English) have since toured with Spring King and Anteros, receiving widespread praise for their tenacious live shows in addition to considerable BBC Radio 1 and BBC 6 Music airplay.
Crammed full with skyscraping riffs, sumptuous harmonies and frontwoman Jess Allanic’s biting vocals, the band have earned plaudits throughout the online community for their latest effort and will be supporting Albert Hammond Jr in London this September.
“The video for Outrageous shows (sort of) what it’s like to be in a band for us”, the three-piece stated. “As a band with no money but with a lot of willpower, we’d go on adventures in our tiny old car, going from London to Berlin to Glasgow, facing, at first, a lot of struggles but always having the maddest adventures and all kind of challenges. In the end, nothing really gets easier, but it does get funnier to experience!” TWITTER.
Live Dates:
21 July – Tramlines, Sheffield
28 July – Wonkfest, London
04 Aug – Humber Street Sesh Festival, Hull
31 Aug – Electric Fields, Dumfries & Galloway
14 Sept – Electric Ballroom, London (supporting Albert Hammond Jr).
Garage rock with a truck load of attitude 'Outrageous' is a determined blast of lean and mean music, where the vocals almost threaten you to defy listening to the end. As for the video, every conceivable element of the song is visually translated, leading to the thought that car rock might now officially be a sub-genre of garage rock!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lucky 757 - Spanish Shore.
Background - Portsmouth, VA-based, modern surf band Lucky 757 pay tribute to the founding pioneers of the early rock n roll and rockabilly from the 50’s and 60’s. Their high energy take on American roots music nods it’s hat to the genres forbears - Dick Dale, Carl Perkins, Chuck Berry and Gene Vincent. The latter sharing the same hometown of Portsmouth, area code 757.
The band formed in 2014 around core songwriting team of father/son duo Danny (rhythm guitar and backup vocals) and Cory (lead vocals and lead guitar). Wielding their twin Gretsch guitars, Danny and Cory deliver the classic hollow body sound in spades, drenched in Copycat tape echo, and aided by the vintage rockabilly rhythm section of Sam Haga (upright bass, electric bass, producer, and backup vocals) Angel Lopez (all things drums and percussion, backup vocals)
Together, the quartet set off to deliver their high-energy, feel good vibes all over Virginia and down the coast, playing alongside The Screaming Rebel Angels and opening for Rev. Horton Heat and Big Sandy and tearing up big stages such as the Gretsch stage at Lake Havasu Rockabilly Reunion (NV), and the Rats Nest Run Inn (NY), and the Americana Music Fest (Virginia Beach).They released their debut self-titled album in 2015 and quickly followed up with a second album was tracked in a feverish all night session at Sun Studios in Memphis in May of 2016. Both releases were praised by the rockabilly community and found airplay on radio stations around the world, eventually landing them a feature in Rockabilly Deluxe Magazine.
While their music might be perceived as nostalgic, the band is aggressively pushing the genre forward with contemporary influences. Their forthcoming album, Lonesome Lagoon, may elicit hang tens, banana palms, gogo boots and Ennio Morricone scores, yet it is structured in a way that feels fresh and current - a modern take on the classic rockabilly surf sound. WEBSITE.
The first of ten tracks on the forthcoming 'Lonesome Lagoon' album is 'Spanish Shore' a gorgeous and timeless roots rock instrumental. If this works for you, then prepare to devour the album, where rockabilly and old style rock and roll is produced to an exceptional standard of musicianship. Varied and crafted and with that all important level of energy and feeling, both old and young folk can fall in love with this music.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - Raucous garage rockers Calva Louise share the visuals for their deafening anthem Outrageous, further reiterating their unbridled potential ahead of a series of eagerly anticipated dates on the festival circuit throughout the summer months.
Having feverishly honed their craft within London’s thriving punk scene, the trio (one part Venezuelan, one part Māori and another part English) have since toured with Spring King and Anteros, receiving widespread praise for their tenacious live shows in addition to considerable BBC Radio 1 and BBC 6 Music airplay.
Crammed full with skyscraping riffs, sumptuous harmonies and frontwoman Jess Allanic’s biting vocals, the band have earned plaudits throughout the online community for their latest effort and will be supporting Albert Hammond Jr in London this September.
“The video for Outrageous shows (sort of) what it’s like to be in a band for us”, the three-piece stated. “As a band with no money but with a lot of willpower, we’d go on adventures in our tiny old car, going from London to Berlin to Glasgow, facing, at first, a lot of struggles but always having the maddest adventures and all kind of challenges. In the end, nothing really gets easier, but it does get funnier to experience!” TWITTER.
Live Dates:
21 July – Tramlines, Sheffield
28 July – Wonkfest, London
04 Aug – Humber Street Sesh Festival, Hull
31 Aug – Electric Fields, Dumfries & Galloway
14 Sept – Electric Ballroom, London (supporting Albert Hammond Jr).
Garage rock with a truck load of attitude 'Outrageous' is a determined blast of lean and mean music, where the vocals almost threaten you to defy listening to the end. As for the video, every conceivable element of the song is visually translated, leading to the thought that car rock might now officially be a sub-genre of garage rock!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lucky 757 - Spanish Shore.
Background - Portsmouth, VA-based, modern surf band Lucky 757 pay tribute to the founding pioneers of the early rock n roll and rockabilly from the 50’s and 60’s. Their high energy take on American roots music nods it’s hat to the genres forbears - Dick Dale, Carl Perkins, Chuck Berry and Gene Vincent. The latter sharing the same hometown of Portsmouth, area code 757.
The band formed in 2014 around core songwriting team of father/son duo Danny (rhythm guitar and backup vocals) and Cory (lead vocals and lead guitar). Wielding their twin Gretsch guitars, Danny and Cory deliver the classic hollow body sound in spades, drenched in Copycat tape echo, and aided by the vintage rockabilly rhythm section of Sam Haga (upright bass, electric bass, producer, and backup vocals) Angel Lopez (all things drums and percussion, backup vocals)
Together, the quartet set off to deliver their high-energy, feel good vibes all over Virginia and down the coast, playing alongside The Screaming Rebel Angels and opening for Rev. Horton Heat and Big Sandy and tearing up big stages such as the Gretsch stage at Lake Havasu Rockabilly Reunion (NV), and the Rats Nest Run Inn (NY), and the Americana Music Fest (Virginia Beach).They released their debut self-titled album in 2015 and quickly followed up with a second album was tracked in a feverish all night session at Sun Studios in Memphis in May of 2016. Both releases were praised by the rockabilly community and found airplay on radio stations around the world, eventually landing them a feature in Rockabilly Deluxe Magazine.
While their music might be perceived as nostalgic, the band is aggressively pushing the genre forward with contemporary influences. Their forthcoming album, Lonesome Lagoon, may elicit hang tens, banana palms, gogo boots and Ennio Morricone scores, yet it is structured in a way that feels fresh and current - a modern take on the classic rockabilly surf sound. WEBSITE.
The first of ten tracks on the forthcoming 'Lonesome Lagoon' album is 'Spanish Shore' a gorgeous and timeless roots rock instrumental. If this works for you, then prepare to devour the album, where rockabilly and old style rock and roll is produced to an exceptional standard of musicianship. Varied and crafted and with that all important level of energy and feeling, both old and young folk can fall in love with this music.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, 17 July 2018
Jeen O'Brien - Alabama Rose - Logan Archer
Jeen O'Brien - Any Moment (radio mix).
Background from Jeen - “Any Moment” is the only song off my forthcoming record, Gift Shop, that I didn’t self-produce in my attic. Ian Blurton, who also plays guitar on the track and mixed the entire LP, co-produced/recorded ‘Any Moment’ at his studio, Pro Gold in Toronto (with musical great Tom Szczesniak on organ + radio mix courtesy of Jeff Dalziel).
The other eight songs from Gift Shop are pretty diy... I played most of the guitars and as mentioned, produced it myself in my attic. My husband played drums, and my brother, who was living with us at the time, was conveniently recruited as our bass player. One of our oldest friends, Griffin, laid down some additional guitars throughout the album.
I was a lot harder on myself with this record than I had been with previous albums. In retrospect, it was quite therapeutic. I never intended to produce my own stuff –that was born of necessity – and I’m still learning as I go along. I really tried to keep the production straightforward so I didn’t get in over my head. The album’s called Gift Shop because I’m not very good at putting myself on display – I’d be good to lock myself away and just release records under the radar. But I’m trying to get over it... Gift Shop is out on September 14th via Red Brick Songs. WEBSITE.
The vocals maybe melodic and smooth at the beginning, however 'Any Moment' is a feisty indie rocker and Jeen can and does add some gritty edge as the momentum builds. It's pure and honest rock and roll.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama Rose - Wildcat.
Background - "Alabama Rose is an emerging rock n roll artist from Birmingham, AL that is quickly gaining a reputation for her wild live performances and live recording style. Her music has been described as Wanda Jackson meets Ramones, and her high energy stage performances landed her six showcases during this year's SXSW Music Festival."
Quickly garnering a reputation for their fiercely outstanding live performances, Alabama Rose are a band that leaves nothing on the table, both in the studio and on stage.
Boasting powerful female vocals, electric guitar, fuzzed-out bass and an array of rhythmic beats, their sound mixes elements of surf, soul, blues and old-west twang to create a blend of modern rock and roll with a vintage twist. WEBSITE.
Classic rock and roll vibes permeate through 'Wildcat' with the vocals adding some additional punk angst. It's one of those songs which packs urgency and passion together in a no nonsense manner.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Logan Archer - Shaylee & Tarantula.
Background - “Shaylee & Tarantula” is a millennial anthem set to gnarled, twangy double-tracked guitars. It describes a generation trying to do what they think they should, but finding themselves hopelessly addicted to escaping their problems. The chorus encourages the listener, “Don’t you know you’re a good kid, no matter what you did?” but reminds them “the world can’t save you, but you sure can go and save yourself”. Despite the bleak outlook of a world out of your control, you can still control your own path and make your own way, a hard truth that’s both scary and liberating. “Shaylee” faces these truths head-on, as Archer often does with the rest of his work.
Logan Archer is a multi-instrumental artist and songwriter hailing from the dusty west of Bakersfield, CA. He has been doing music since the age of 15, spending hours in his bedroom perfecting tracks with his unique sonic signature. Listeners have compared him to indie greats such as Ariel Pink, Daniel Johnston, Ben Kweller, Elliott Smith, and Weezer.
By the age of 18 Logan had already released three full length albums on Bandcamp. Logan mixes a wide range of influences from 60's pop, 70's glam, and 90's indie rock with personal lyricism set to big melodies to craft his own distinct brand of catchy DIY rock music. He is the founder of the cassette tape label Cellar Door Tapes, which represented artists like Johnny Goth, LSD & the Search for God, and Wished Bone, among others. He is also the drummer for the up-and-coming indie rock trio Swell Spells who recently debuted the first single on the influential Earmilk. Logan Archer embodies the indie DIY spirit and is a name to remember. FACEBOOK.
'Shaylee & Tarantula' is an imaginative rocker, where the vocals really do give the song some individual character. The rhythmic and punchy soundtrack works well and the lyrics are intriguing to say the least.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background from Jeen - “Any Moment” is the only song off my forthcoming record, Gift Shop, that I didn’t self-produce in my attic. Ian Blurton, who also plays guitar on the track and mixed the entire LP, co-produced/recorded ‘Any Moment’ at his studio, Pro Gold in Toronto (with musical great Tom Szczesniak on organ + radio mix courtesy of Jeff Dalziel).
The other eight songs from Gift Shop are pretty diy... I played most of the guitars and as mentioned, produced it myself in my attic. My husband played drums, and my brother, who was living with us at the time, was conveniently recruited as our bass player. One of our oldest friends, Griffin, laid down some additional guitars throughout the album.
I was a lot harder on myself with this record than I had been with previous albums. In retrospect, it was quite therapeutic. I never intended to produce my own stuff –that was born of necessity – and I’m still learning as I go along. I really tried to keep the production straightforward so I didn’t get in over my head. The album’s called Gift Shop because I’m not very good at putting myself on display – I’d be good to lock myself away and just release records under the radar. But I’m trying to get over it... Gift Shop is out on September 14th via Red Brick Songs. WEBSITE.
The vocals maybe melodic and smooth at the beginning, however 'Any Moment' is a feisty indie rocker and Jeen can and does add some gritty edge as the momentum builds. It's pure and honest rock and roll.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama Rose - Wildcat.
Background - "Alabama Rose is an emerging rock n roll artist from Birmingham, AL that is quickly gaining a reputation for her wild live performances and live recording style. Her music has been described as Wanda Jackson meets Ramones, and her high energy stage performances landed her six showcases during this year's SXSW Music Festival."
Quickly garnering a reputation for their fiercely outstanding live performances, Alabama Rose are a band that leaves nothing on the table, both in the studio and on stage.
Boasting powerful female vocals, electric guitar, fuzzed-out bass and an array of rhythmic beats, their sound mixes elements of surf, soul, blues and old-west twang to create a blend of modern rock and roll with a vintage twist. WEBSITE.
Classic rock and roll vibes permeate through 'Wildcat' with the vocals adding some additional punk angst. It's one of those songs which packs urgency and passion together in a no nonsense manner.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Logan Archer - Shaylee & Tarantula.
Background - “Shaylee & Tarantula” is a millennial anthem set to gnarled, twangy double-tracked guitars. It describes a generation trying to do what they think they should, but finding themselves hopelessly addicted to escaping their problems. The chorus encourages the listener, “Don’t you know you’re a good kid, no matter what you did?” but reminds them “the world can’t save you, but you sure can go and save yourself”. Despite the bleak outlook of a world out of your control, you can still control your own path and make your own way, a hard truth that’s both scary and liberating. “Shaylee” faces these truths head-on, as Archer often does with the rest of his work.
Logan Archer is a multi-instrumental artist and songwriter hailing from the dusty west of Bakersfield, CA. He has been doing music since the age of 15, spending hours in his bedroom perfecting tracks with his unique sonic signature. Listeners have compared him to indie greats such as Ariel Pink, Daniel Johnston, Ben Kweller, Elliott Smith, and Weezer.
By the age of 18 Logan had already released three full length albums on Bandcamp. Logan mixes a wide range of influences from 60's pop, 70's glam, and 90's indie rock with personal lyricism set to big melodies to craft his own distinct brand of catchy DIY rock music. He is the founder of the cassette tape label Cellar Door Tapes, which represented artists like Johnny Goth, LSD & the Search for God, and Wished Bone, among others. He is also the drummer for the up-and-coming indie rock trio Swell Spells who recently debuted the first single on the influential Earmilk. Logan Archer embodies the indie DIY spirit and is a name to remember. FACEBOOK.
'Shaylee & Tarantula' is an imaginative rocker, where the vocals really do give the song some individual character. The rhythmic and punchy soundtrack works well and the lyrics are intriguing to say the least.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, 16 July 2018
Fine Points - Frøkedal - Rue Snider
Fine Points - Ready & Able
Background - San Francisco's Fine Points release their sophomore full-length, 'Take Shape.' Since releasing their debut album, Hover, in 2015, Fine Points have continued to lay the brickwork of their narco-pop stylings.
After landing tours with hazy contemporaries such as White Fence, The Warlocks, and The Fresh & Onlys, the band returned to California to work on demos for their sophomore offering.
Somewhere along the way producer Jason Carmer reached out to the band and they recorded the tracks heard on Take Shape at Carmer's Berkeley studio. FACEBOOK.
Performance Dates:
July 17 - Olympia, WA @ Le Voyeur Cafe
July 18 - Seattle, WA @ Sunset Tavern
July 19 - Portland, OR @ White Owl Social Club
July 20 - Berkeley, CA @ The Starry Plough
July 21 - Visalia, CA @ Cellar Door
July 22 - Los Angeles, CA @ HiHat
'Ready & Able' opens in a mild, unassuming manner, where melodic vocals and music gradually develops in layers. The song grows into a refined pop with a dash of rock track, the understated feeling giving way to a more expansive sound and the hooks do indeed dig in deep.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frøkedal - David.
Background - As the release of Oslo-based Frøkedal’s much anticipated second album ‘How We Made It’ draws closer (set for release August 31st via Propeller Recordings), she’s sharing new single ‘David’ - a spirited, folk-tinged indie rock song, that lyrically appears to focus around the general notion of, “hope”.
"Love and hope keeps knocking on your door / Where do you think it is? / Upstairs, in the street, by the window / Maybe you will open up the door” Anne Lise Frøkedal delicately sings in David’s chorus refrain - to a backdrop of bustling drums and cleverly finger-picked guitar lines.
"This song was close to not happening - several times.” Frøkedal explains. "After the final recording session I realised that I missed it’s hopeful optimism in between the other songs. I needed David to shine a little light on the album.”
Speaking a little more on how the song came together, she said: "There was no more studio time booked, and no time to wait around, so I took the train out to drummer Olaf’s place, a small old house on the top of a hill. His drums are sat on a riser in the middle of his living room with a great view of the valley below. We were chatting, playing and having a great time – until the recording system broke down completely. We tried again the next day, I went back out there heavily loaded with my own more or less portable equipment. We played the song many times, it was fun and easy. Later that week I visited an old friend’s studio (Bjarne, drummer in Harrys Gym) and did the piano there. And my sister did the bass. I ended up spending a lot of time with people I really appreciate doing this track - and that fits the song very well." TWITTER.
As this is our fourth feature this year alone for Frøkedal, clearly there is is something about her music that resonates in a powerful way. 'David' goes someway to explaining why. Her individual style is so often catchy and natural, as is the thoughtful, creative and sensitive musical production. Put simply she can write a fine song and then make it something gorgeous and special.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rue Snider - Run Away With You.
Background - Brooklyn indie rocker and songwriter Rue Snider releases “Run Away With You,” the fifth single from his highly anticipated new album City Living. “Run Away With You” showcases Rue's 80s inspired sound and signature wide-ranging melody.
Of the track, Rue explains, “Humans collect emotional baggage like a hoarder in a rent controlled apartment. What if we could leave it all behind and run away with someone? What if we could find a beach and start over, hard reset, go emotionally back to one? The fantasy of emotional amnesia is real. The idea of sharing it with someone can be intoxicating. "Run Away With You” lives inside that fantasy. It longs for an emotional clean slate even if it’s only for a short time. This song is also the doorway to City Living as a record. It’s the guest at the party who says, “one more drink! don’t worry about tomorrow!” It’s the voice that makes driving to the ocean at 4:30 in morning with two bottles of whiskey and a car full of intoxicated strangers make sense. It’s the Siren beckoning to move closer to the shore.”
“Run Away With You” follows four warmly received singles: “Vamonos,” "Experiment In Love,” "Hot Summer Nights,” and “Don’t Lose Heart.” Of "Hot Summer Nights," Spill Magazine raved, “Rue Snider creates something magnificent."
Heavily influenced by 80s rock from Cyndi Lauper to The Smiths to R.E.M., Rue's new album City Living presents New York City as a catalyst for finding peace in the present even when circumstances are destructive and demand change. It’s a loose chronicle of his move to Manhattan in the mid aughts and an examination of the thoughts and choices that occur while living in transition: geographically, emotionally, spiritually, politically, and socially. City Living is upbeat musically with lyrics that reflect real human experiences, from falling in love at Coney Island, to wandering Brooklyn heartbroken, to standing up to injustice. WEBSITE.
Another artist who has gained our attention this year with some highly creative music is Rue Snider, an artist who is totally upfront about his musical influences and their impact on his own creativity. With the resulting output becoming songs such as 'Run Away With You' what is there to complain about, a driving and engaging indie rocker, with intelligent lyrics, it adds even more variety to the forthcoming album.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - San Francisco's Fine Points release their sophomore full-length, 'Take Shape.' Since releasing their debut album, Hover, in 2015, Fine Points have continued to lay the brickwork of their narco-pop stylings.
After landing tours with hazy contemporaries such as White Fence, The Warlocks, and The Fresh & Onlys, the band returned to California to work on demos for their sophomore offering.
Somewhere along the way producer Jason Carmer reached out to the band and they recorded the tracks heard on Take Shape at Carmer's Berkeley studio. FACEBOOK.
Performance Dates:
July 17 - Olympia, WA @ Le Voyeur Cafe
July 18 - Seattle, WA @ Sunset Tavern
July 19 - Portland, OR @ White Owl Social Club
July 20 - Berkeley, CA @ The Starry Plough
July 21 - Visalia, CA @ Cellar Door
July 22 - Los Angeles, CA @ HiHat
'Ready & Able' opens in a mild, unassuming manner, where melodic vocals and music gradually develops in layers. The song grows into a refined pop with a dash of rock track, the understated feeling giving way to a more expansive sound and the hooks do indeed dig in deep.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frøkedal - David.
Background - As the release of Oslo-based Frøkedal’s much anticipated second album ‘How We Made It’ draws closer (set for release August 31st via Propeller Recordings), she’s sharing new single ‘David’ - a spirited, folk-tinged indie rock song, that lyrically appears to focus around the general notion of, “hope”.
"Love and hope keeps knocking on your door / Where do you think it is? / Upstairs, in the street, by the window / Maybe you will open up the door” Anne Lise Frøkedal delicately sings in David’s chorus refrain - to a backdrop of bustling drums and cleverly finger-picked guitar lines.
"This song was close to not happening - several times.” Frøkedal explains. "After the final recording session I realised that I missed it’s hopeful optimism in between the other songs. I needed David to shine a little light on the album.”
Speaking a little more on how the song came together, she said: "There was no more studio time booked, and no time to wait around, so I took the train out to drummer Olaf’s place, a small old house on the top of a hill. His drums are sat on a riser in the middle of his living room with a great view of the valley below. We were chatting, playing and having a great time – until the recording system broke down completely. We tried again the next day, I went back out there heavily loaded with my own more or less portable equipment. We played the song many times, it was fun and easy. Later that week I visited an old friend’s studio (Bjarne, drummer in Harrys Gym) and did the piano there. And my sister did the bass. I ended up spending a lot of time with people I really appreciate doing this track - and that fits the song very well." TWITTER.
As this is our fourth feature this year alone for Frøkedal, clearly there is is something about her music that resonates in a powerful way. 'David' goes someway to explaining why. Her individual style is so often catchy and natural, as is the thoughtful, creative and sensitive musical production. Put simply she can write a fine song and then make it something gorgeous and special.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rue Snider - Run Away With You.
Background - Brooklyn indie rocker and songwriter Rue Snider releases “Run Away With You,” the fifth single from his highly anticipated new album City Living. “Run Away With You” showcases Rue's 80s inspired sound and signature wide-ranging melody.
Of the track, Rue explains, “Humans collect emotional baggage like a hoarder in a rent controlled apartment. What if we could leave it all behind and run away with someone? What if we could find a beach and start over, hard reset, go emotionally back to one? The fantasy of emotional amnesia is real. The idea of sharing it with someone can be intoxicating. "Run Away With You” lives inside that fantasy. It longs for an emotional clean slate even if it’s only for a short time. This song is also the doorway to City Living as a record. It’s the guest at the party who says, “one more drink! don’t worry about tomorrow!” It’s the voice that makes driving to the ocean at 4:30 in morning with two bottles of whiskey and a car full of intoxicated strangers make sense. It’s the Siren beckoning to move closer to the shore.”
“Run Away With You” follows four warmly received singles: “Vamonos,” "Experiment In Love,” "Hot Summer Nights,” and “Don’t Lose Heart.” Of "Hot Summer Nights," Spill Magazine raved, “Rue Snider creates something magnificent."
Heavily influenced by 80s rock from Cyndi Lauper to The Smiths to R.E.M., Rue's new album City Living presents New York City as a catalyst for finding peace in the present even when circumstances are destructive and demand change. It’s a loose chronicle of his move to Manhattan in the mid aughts and an examination of the thoughts and choices that occur while living in transition: geographically, emotionally, spiritually, politically, and socially. City Living is upbeat musically with lyrics that reflect real human experiences, from falling in love at Coney Island, to wandering Brooklyn heartbroken, to standing up to injustice. WEBSITE.
Another artist who has gained our attention this year with some highly creative music is Rue Snider, an artist who is totally upfront about his musical influences and their impact on his own creativity. With the resulting output becoming songs such as 'Run Away With You' what is there to complain about, a driving and engaging indie rocker, with intelligent lyrics, it adds even more variety to the forthcoming album.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 15 July 2018
Linda Em - School Damage - Quiet Hollers
Linda Em - Wild Fire.
Background - London-based Irish-born songstress Linda Em has announced her new ‘London Irish’ EP, to be released this fall via Talking Elephant Records. Ahead of that, ‘Wild Fire’ is the first single from this release – a sultry song that is as much of an earworm as it is seductive.
This EP is the first step in a different direction for Linda, towards a more atmospheric and spacious sound and vocal performance. It is both poetic and storytelling while still being brutally honest and personal. Her pure and raw vocals beautifully convey a nostalgic lyrical narrative, her warm endearing vocals drawing the listener into her musical story telling.
The ‘London Irish’ EP was recorded, produced and mastered at Orphan Recording, Dublin by Gavin Glass (Paul Brady, John Grant, Lisa Hannigan, Mundy), who is also music director for John Carney's film ‘Sing Street’). It was mixed by Scott Halliday (John Grant, Lisa Hannigan and previously guitar tech for Prince and James Vincent Mcmorrow).
‘Wild Fire’ is about the power struggle in a relationship built on control and passion, where there can be no victor. Written by Linda Em and Eamon P. Gilmore, on this track, Em shares vocal duties with Gavin Glass.
“This is definitely more of love story or indeed a power battle. If you watch Game of Thrones, for instance, you'll see that Wild Fire was one of their deadly weapons of choice. The fear of wild fire is indeed a fantastic metaphor for human passion and love and energy that could not be controlled or tamed," says Linda Em. "The song is also an expression of a woman's desire for freedom and the sadness that comes when two lovers simply aren't right for each other. Even if they have this intense love, we realise as we get older, that love alone just isn’t enough." WEBSITE.
We have to go back to February 2016 for our previous Linda Em feature where among other things we commented at the time that her music "strides across genres, it's a melting pot of ideas, held in harmony by the clear commitment to deliver a top class piece". So now we have 'Wild Fire' which opens with a softer folk lilt and Linda Em's beguiling vocals. As the musical backdrop adds a couple of layers, Gavin Glass's duel vocals take the piece even further, the first of four on the new EP, this really is something special.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
School Damage - Assimilate.
Background - A To X is the second album by Melbourne anxiety-pop quartet School Damage. The new album (due out on 31 August via Chapter Music) focuses their simultaneously sharp and wobbly DIY pop aesthetic, taking in the wooziness of Young Marble Giants, the bite of Devo and the busy melodies of the Television Personalities.
Carolyn Hawkins from the band explains further about the song: "'Assimilate' came out of a sense of frustration at being a girl that does music stuff, and not knowing where I stood on the whole issue – like join the crowd or oppose it? The feeling of being part of a scene, but kind of not feeling a part of it as well. And then whether to argue against it, or just try to do your best within it, and then this feeling that I am part of the problem too. I didn’t know how to approach it, I still don’t. But also it’s okay to be confused too and to not know all the time."
A To X comes hot on the heels of School Damage’s instantly loveable self-titled debut from 2017, which earned the band raves from Brooklyn Vegan, Noisey and BBC 6Music among others. About the new album, Carolyn says: “A To X is about trying (and failing) to find patterns in the overwhelming jumble of activities involved in being alive. We were going to call it In Alphabetical Order but I guess we never quite made it to Z!” FACEBOOK.
As genres go anxiety pop is a perfect fit for 'Assimilate'. Hopefully School Damage are in a better place themselves, nonetheless the mixture of potent pop hooks and edginess gives this song some vitality and surprisingly a level of charm as well.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quiet Hollers - Addicted.
Background - “Addicted”, is the first new single that Louisville’s Quiet Hollers since the release of their acclaimed sophomore album Amen Breaks that came out last summer, and which tackled important socio-political issues and helped shine a light on the effects of mental illness. In a similar vein, “Addicted” is a powerful single about opiate addiction, broadly. Which, given the current epidemic facing society, is timely and relevant.
Quiet Hollers' frontman Shadwick Wilde didn’t intend for it to be a “drug song” necessarily, though its inception came at a time when his family was struggling with the loss of his mother’s brother, who died of a fentanyl overdose. Wilde himself has struggled with addiction since adolescence. Fortunately, he’s always stayed away from heroin, but we’re in the middle of an epidemic and just about everyone has lost someone to it, so he felt it was important to acknowledge how deeply vulnerable we all are to these things, and how serious that problem really is. Not just of the problem of addiction, but of this world we’ve created and why it can be so hard to live in.
The band is still touring in support of Amen Breaks, that spawned several stand-out singles including “Pressure” (which yielded one of the better music videos of 2017, especially if you’re a wrestling fan!) and “Medicine” (Spotify), an undeniable song about about panic disorder, depression and medication. Each of the songs on the album examine core themes that drew parallels with the cultural crossovers of the 1970's, a decade marred by division, political corruption, and terrorism… issues we can all relate to these days. Expanding their shape-shifting palate to include vintage drum machines and samples, on Amen Breaks, Quiet Hollers raise questions of spirituality, sexuality, and mental illness to its new audience in tones that range from the cinematic to the psychedelic. WEBSITE.
We had the pleasure to feature Quiet Hollers three times last year and the new song 'Addicted' is equally pleasing to share. The bands mature alt rock sensibilities are ever present, as is the genuine commitment to what is, a very critical and sadly widespread problem. Sometimes passion and emotional concern are part of the solution, even when delivered through music, as that can often reach our hearts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - London-based Irish-born songstress Linda Em has announced her new ‘London Irish’ EP, to be released this fall via Talking Elephant Records. Ahead of that, ‘Wild Fire’ is the first single from this release – a sultry song that is as much of an earworm as it is seductive.
This EP is the first step in a different direction for Linda, towards a more atmospheric and spacious sound and vocal performance. It is both poetic and storytelling while still being brutally honest and personal. Her pure and raw vocals beautifully convey a nostalgic lyrical narrative, her warm endearing vocals drawing the listener into her musical story telling.
The ‘London Irish’ EP was recorded, produced and mastered at Orphan Recording, Dublin by Gavin Glass (Paul Brady, John Grant, Lisa Hannigan, Mundy), who is also music director for John Carney's film ‘Sing Street’). It was mixed by Scott Halliday (John Grant, Lisa Hannigan and previously guitar tech for Prince and James Vincent Mcmorrow).
‘Wild Fire’ is about the power struggle in a relationship built on control and passion, where there can be no victor. Written by Linda Em and Eamon P. Gilmore, on this track, Em shares vocal duties with Gavin Glass.
“This is definitely more of love story or indeed a power battle. If you watch Game of Thrones, for instance, you'll see that Wild Fire was one of their deadly weapons of choice. The fear of wild fire is indeed a fantastic metaphor for human passion and love and energy that could not be controlled or tamed," says Linda Em. "The song is also an expression of a woman's desire for freedom and the sadness that comes when two lovers simply aren't right for each other. Even if they have this intense love, we realise as we get older, that love alone just isn’t enough." WEBSITE.
We have to go back to February 2016 for our previous Linda Em feature where among other things we commented at the time that her music "strides across genres, it's a melting pot of ideas, held in harmony by the clear commitment to deliver a top class piece". So now we have 'Wild Fire' which opens with a softer folk lilt and Linda Em's beguiling vocals. As the musical backdrop adds a couple of layers, Gavin Glass's duel vocals take the piece even further, the first of four on the new EP, this really is something special.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
School Damage - Assimilate.
Background - A To X is the second album by Melbourne anxiety-pop quartet School Damage. The new album (due out on 31 August via Chapter Music) focuses their simultaneously sharp and wobbly DIY pop aesthetic, taking in the wooziness of Young Marble Giants, the bite of Devo and the busy melodies of the Television Personalities.
Carolyn Hawkins from the band explains further about the song: "'Assimilate' came out of a sense of frustration at being a girl that does music stuff, and not knowing where I stood on the whole issue – like join the crowd or oppose it? The feeling of being part of a scene, but kind of not feeling a part of it as well. And then whether to argue against it, or just try to do your best within it, and then this feeling that I am part of the problem too. I didn’t know how to approach it, I still don’t. But also it’s okay to be confused too and to not know all the time."
A To X comes hot on the heels of School Damage’s instantly loveable self-titled debut from 2017, which earned the band raves from Brooklyn Vegan, Noisey and BBC 6Music among others. About the new album, Carolyn says: “A To X is about trying (and failing) to find patterns in the overwhelming jumble of activities involved in being alive. We were going to call it In Alphabetical Order but I guess we never quite made it to Z!” FACEBOOK.
As genres go anxiety pop is a perfect fit for 'Assimilate'. Hopefully School Damage are in a better place themselves, nonetheless the mixture of potent pop hooks and edginess gives this song some vitality and surprisingly a level of charm as well.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quiet Hollers - Addicted.
Background - “Addicted”, is the first new single that Louisville’s Quiet Hollers since the release of their acclaimed sophomore album Amen Breaks that came out last summer, and which tackled important socio-political issues and helped shine a light on the effects of mental illness. In a similar vein, “Addicted” is a powerful single about opiate addiction, broadly. Which, given the current epidemic facing society, is timely and relevant.
Quiet Hollers' frontman Shadwick Wilde didn’t intend for it to be a “drug song” necessarily, though its inception came at a time when his family was struggling with the loss of his mother’s brother, who died of a fentanyl overdose. Wilde himself has struggled with addiction since adolescence. Fortunately, he’s always stayed away from heroin, but we’re in the middle of an epidemic and just about everyone has lost someone to it, so he felt it was important to acknowledge how deeply vulnerable we all are to these things, and how serious that problem really is. Not just of the problem of addiction, but of this world we’ve created and why it can be so hard to live in.
The band is still touring in support of Amen Breaks, that spawned several stand-out singles including “Pressure” (which yielded one of the better music videos of 2017, especially if you’re a wrestling fan!) and “Medicine” (Spotify), an undeniable song about about panic disorder, depression and medication. Each of the songs on the album examine core themes that drew parallels with the cultural crossovers of the 1970's, a decade marred by division, political corruption, and terrorism… issues we can all relate to these days. Expanding their shape-shifting palate to include vintage drum machines and samples, on Amen Breaks, Quiet Hollers raise questions of spirituality, sexuality, and mental illness to its new audience in tones that range from the cinematic to the psychedelic. WEBSITE.
We had the pleasure to feature Quiet Hollers three times last year and the new song 'Addicted' is equally pleasing to share. The bands mature alt rock sensibilities are ever present, as is the genuine commitment to what is, a very critical and sadly widespread problem. Sometimes passion and emotional concern are part of the solution, even when delivered through music, as that can often reach our hearts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, 14 July 2018
The Soft Underground - Earth Girl Helen Brown - Silent Forum
The Soft Underground - Ghosts.
Background - NYC-based The Soft Underground may hail from the outskirts of Manhattan, but have been hailed as modern decedents of the touchtone bands from Seattle’s 90’s alternative scene.
Formed in 2010 by drummer, Andrew McCarty and guitarist, Charlie Hickey, the band quickly began to write, perform and record original music. Their mode of working involved perfecting their musical beds and then casting the correct guest vocalist for each song, working in the rock genre in a similar way that French electro innovators Air recruit collaborators for their tracks. Guests have included Nick Redmond (Star & Micey), Brannon Barnett (The StoneCoats) and Rick Steff (Lucero, The Afghan Whigs, Hank Williams Jr.)
What emerged from these collaborations was unique yet accessible to the mainstream, and their debut album, 2015’s Lost in Translation, garnered positives nods from The Big Takeover, Music Street Journal and Alt Nation. The latter was quick to nail down their dynamic combo of solid hooks and rock riffs, noting the potential for radio ready singles.
Their forthcoming sophomore follow-up, Morning World, is a much more personal work which continues their penchant for eclectic variation. They labored over the recording process for over two years, insuring their melodic, dreamy and diverse esthetic evolved beyond their debut. The resulting recordings could be described as alt art rock in the vein of Deftones, Father John Misty and Stone Temple Pilots - a solid rock foundation that integrates big band swing, jungle electronica, shoegaze and punk. WEBSITE.
'Ghosts' is a refined alt rocker that mixes pleasingly distinct vocals and a slick soundtrack together, and adds in some delicate harmonies and subtle melodic hooks. If the sophomore album is this good throughout, it's gonna be something very special.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earth Girl Helen Brown - Set the Woods on Fire.
Background - A new video for, "Set The Woods On Fire", off Four Satellites, Vol. 1 by Earth Girl Helen Brown has just been shared. The Earth Girl Helen Brown Center for Planetary Intelligence Band (E.G.H.B.CF.P.I.B.) is pleased to join forces with In the Red Records & Empty Cellar Records, presenting the first vinyl release of their proto planetary series: Four Satellites Vol. 1. Double gate-folded LP (3 sides + etching), the release is a collection of songs and information from the band’s 2017 consumer recycled cassette series. Spring: MERCURY: fire; Summer: MARS: war; Fall: SATURN: communication; Winter: VENUS: love. Classic black or green and gold all proceeds benefit 12 earth-minded organizations.
The band, related media artists and technicians includes: Heidi Alexander, Jamie Barron, Jamin Barton, Eric Bauer, Aylin Beyce, Emilee Booher, Ryan Browne, Tim Cohen, Grace Cooper, Dave Cousin, Brad Caulkins, Mikal Cronin, Bart Davenport, Brigid Dawson, John Dwyer, Chris Fallon, Lars Finberg, James Finch Jr., Davin Givhan, Dylan Hadley, Dustin Hamman, Kiran Harlow, Wilder Harlow, Graeme Gibson, Tahlia Harbour, Anna Hillburg, Douglas Hilsinger, Warren Huegel, Emmett Kelly, Nora Keys, Shannon Lay, Raven Mahon, Rusty Miller, Charlie Moonheart, Jack Name, Ethan Novikoff, Tim Presley, Ty Segall, Dave Sitek, Sean Smith, Sonny Smith, Kelley Stoltz, Enrique Tena, Alica Vanden Heuvel, Lida Vanden Heuvel and Mikey Young. WEBSITE.
Appearance number five on Beehive Candy for Earth Girl Helen Brown, this time we have a new music video for 'Set the Woods on Fire'. Musically it's another imaginative and massively catchy song, on that front they are so consistent, and the video adds just a little more message and some intriguing dancing as well.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Silent Forum - How I Faked The Moon Landing.
Background - Cardiff's Silent Forum are a combination of shadowy post punk and the more accessible side of indie rock.
The band are releasing their new single How I Faked The Moon Landing on 10th August on Libertino Records’ ‘Singles Club’. A music video for the single has just been made available.
How I Faked The Moon Landing is the first track to be released from our debut LP produced by Charlie Francis of R.E.M., Future of the Left and Ultravox fame.
How I Faked The Moon Landing’s video was filmed in Barry Island by filmmaker Jaydon Martin - it features the band on jubilant form, surprising the locals in Barry’s famous arcades.
Silent Forum comprise of Vocals - Richard Wiggins, Bass - Oli Richards, Guitar - Dario Ordi, Drums - Elliot Samphier. FACEBOOK.
'How I Faked The Moon Landing' opens with some addictive, rhythmic vibes, that suggest this song is going to be rather hard to ignore. Once the vocals commence and the band subtly take things up a notch, it's all apparent that Silent Forum have developed one engaging and resplendent sound. Whether it's indie rock, post punk, alt rock or whatever, it is without doubt an impressive track that guarantees further investigation of anything else they already have to offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - NYC-based The Soft Underground may hail from the outskirts of Manhattan, but have been hailed as modern decedents of the touchtone bands from Seattle’s 90’s alternative scene.
Formed in 2010 by drummer, Andrew McCarty and guitarist, Charlie Hickey, the band quickly began to write, perform and record original music. Their mode of working involved perfecting their musical beds and then casting the correct guest vocalist for each song, working in the rock genre in a similar way that French electro innovators Air recruit collaborators for their tracks. Guests have included Nick Redmond (Star & Micey), Brannon Barnett (The StoneCoats) and Rick Steff (Lucero, The Afghan Whigs, Hank Williams Jr.)
What emerged from these collaborations was unique yet accessible to the mainstream, and their debut album, 2015’s Lost in Translation, garnered positives nods from The Big Takeover, Music Street Journal and Alt Nation. The latter was quick to nail down their dynamic combo of solid hooks and rock riffs, noting the potential for radio ready singles.
Their forthcoming sophomore follow-up, Morning World, is a much more personal work which continues their penchant for eclectic variation. They labored over the recording process for over two years, insuring their melodic, dreamy and diverse esthetic evolved beyond their debut. The resulting recordings could be described as alt art rock in the vein of Deftones, Father John Misty and Stone Temple Pilots - a solid rock foundation that integrates big band swing, jungle electronica, shoegaze and punk. WEBSITE.
'Ghosts' is a refined alt rocker that mixes pleasingly distinct vocals and a slick soundtrack together, and adds in some delicate harmonies and subtle melodic hooks. If the sophomore album is this good throughout, it's gonna be something very special.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earth Girl Helen Brown - Set the Woods on Fire.
Background - A new video for, "Set The Woods On Fire", off Four Satellites, Vol. 1 by Earth Girl Helen Brown has just been shared. The Earth Girl Helen Brown Center for Planetary Intelligence Band (E.G.H.B.CF.P.I.B.) is pleased to join forces with In the Red Records & Empty Cellar Records, presenting the first vinyl release of their proto planetary series: Four Satellites Vol. 1. Double gate-folded LP (3 sides + etching), the release is a collection of songs and information from the band’s 2017 consumer recycled cassette series. Spring: MERCURY: fire; Summer: MARS: war; Fall: SATURN: communication; Winter: VENUS: love. Classic black or green and gold all proceeds benefit 12 earth-minded organizations.
The band, related media artists and technicians includes: Heidi Alexander, Jamie Barron, Jamin Barton, Eric Bauer, Aylin Beyce, Emilee Booher, Ryan Browne, Tim Cohen, Grace Cooper, Dave Cousin, Brad Caulkins, Mikal Cronin, Bart Davenport, Brigid Dawson, John Dwyer, Chris Fallon, Lars Finberg, James Finch Jr., Davin Givhan, Dylan Hadley, Dustin Hamman, Kiran Harlow, Wilder Harlow, Graeme Gibson, Tahlia Harbour, Anna Hillburg, Douglas Hilsinger, Warren Huegel, Emmett Kelly, Nora Keys, Shannon Lay, Raven Mahon, Rusty Miller, Charlie Moonheart, Jack Name, Ethan Novikoff, Tim Presley, Ty Segall, Dave Sitek, Sean Smith, Sonny Smith, Kelley Stoltz, Enrique Tena, Alica Vanden Heuvel, Lida Vanden Heuvel and Mikey Young. WEBSITE.
Appearance number five on Beehive Candy for Earth Girl Helen Brown, this time we have a new music video for 'Set the Woods on Fire'. Musically it's another imaginative and massively catchy song, on that front they are so consistent, and the video adds just a little more message and some intriguing dancing as well.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Silent Forum - How I Faked The Moon Landing.
Background - Cardiff's Silent Forum are a combination of shadowy post punk and the more accessible side of indie rock.
The band are releasing their new single How I Faked The Moon Landing on 10th August on Libertino Records’ ‘Singles Club’. A music video for the single has just been made available.
How I Faked The Moon Landing is the first track to be released from our debut LP produced by Charlie Francis of R.E.M., Future of the Left and Ultravox fame.
How I Faked The Moon Landing’s video was filmed in Barry Island by filmmaker Jaydon Martin - it features the band on jubilant form, surprising the locals in Barry’s famous arcades.
Silent Forum comprise of Vocals - Richard Wiggins, Bass - Oli Richards, Guitar - Dario Ordi, Drums - Elliot Samphier. FACEBOOK.
'How I Faked The Moon Landing' opens with some addictive, rhythmic vibes, that suggest this song is going to be rather hard to ignore. Once the vocals commence and the band subtly take things up a notch, it's all apparent that Silent Forum have developed one engaging and resplendent sound. Whether it's indie rock, post punk, alt rock or whatever, it is without doubt an impressive track that guarantees further investigation of anything else they already have to offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, 13 July 2018
The West Coast Feed - Chantitown - The Pressure Kids - Heather O'Neill - Jason Isbell
The West Coast Feed - You Belong To Me.
Background - Honoring the collective legacies of Memphis, Muscle Shoals and New Orleans, The West Coast Feed – eight members strong -- generates a modern and electrifying swagger rock/soul experience. The tight backbeat of the rhythm section, a vibrant three-man horn section, tandem electric guitars and a soaring violin set the stage for the commanding voice of charismatic front man, Jesse Butterworth.
Since the Seattle, WA-based band’s formation one short year ago, The West Coast Feed has filled clubs and theaters by word of mouth, drawing audiences to an experience of sound and sensation that makes sitting still impossible. With their highly anticipated self-titled full-length debut, founding member/guitarist and accomplished recording engineer Matt Woll polishes the sweat, grit and energy of the band into a sonic studio shimmer.
Jesse Butterworth’s résumé includes fronting an award winning, label- signed band with a #1 radio hit, on their way to the proverbial big time. But in the middle of a sold out show in Los Angeles, Jesse’s flying leap off the drum riser resulted in a compound leg fracture, and the sudden end of a dream.
He compares the experience to dropping off a cliff and a total loss of momentum. But after relocating to Seattle he met a kindred musical spirit in Matt Woll and the two friends formed The West Coast Feed. “We called up the best players that we knew,” and over a two-month period there would be a new member each week, expanding exponentially from two members to their current eight-man lineup.
Philanthropic support is a central theme to the band’s mission as they have partnered with two non-profit organizations for benefit shows: charity:water, and All God’s Children International. The latter group, an organization that cares for orphans and facilitates international adoptions, is especially close to Jesse’s heart, as it provided a path for him and his wife to adopt their Ethiopian-born daughter Harper. Their adoption journey is captured in the band’s lively debut single “You Belong to Me.” WEBSITE.
'You Belong To Me' is a little rambunctious, hugely slick and can comfortably have the term 'timeless' attached to it. Rock and Roll with plenty of classic Soul is performed vocally with a sense of urgency and passion, whilst the band have that consummate professional sound, whilst still knowing how to party and enjoy themselves.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chantitown - Mother of Sun
Background - Chantitown has released an enchanting video for 'Mother of Sun'. The London-born, former Performing Arts student has been writing and experimenting with sound since an early age, realising her ever-ambitious true calling at just 13 years old. Chantitown grew up in a household filled with musical influence and received her first musical lesson whilst at still in school, whilst knowing that her passion for music was a “soul-connection that ran deep” , and vowing on this ever since.
So naturally, Chantitown took the time to research, and self-educate herself on the vast plethora of musical genres the world had to offer, including classical, folk, urban, rock, etc. But this is no limit - only until her introduction to poetry, did Chantitown truly find her place in ultimate expression, by contributing her own inward thoughts and words as sole influence to her songwriting capabilities.
Chantitown is heavily influenced by accomplished or legendary songwriters such as Joni Mitchell, Carol King and Tracy Chapman, to the electronic trip-hop hypnotics provided by Massive Attack, Portishead, and MGMT. Chantitown can be stylistically compared to Bat For Lashes, Lorde or even Cat Power for heartfelt, yet raw and immersive presentation, compelling vocal delivery and intriguing instrumental backdrops.
Her music is one that tells a story, evokes intense emotion and delight drenched in empowering, earnest lyrics, put together in an almost dream-like fashion which transports you to an ethereal plane of existence. Chantitown’s music is nothing short of majestic, leaving you ripe in anticipation whatever is next to come. WEBSITE.
The vocals are simmering with feeling on 'Mother of Sun' as they melodically work they way into your world. The music gently supports the emotional journey of this song, occasionally adding extra layers, and the video gives the piece an additional level of mystery.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Pressure Kids - Fever.
Background - The Pressure Kids, a Nashville-based indie rock five-piece, just released a new single, "Fever". It got added to Spotify's last New Music Friday playlist, and racked up over 40,000 plays in its first weekend.
The Pressure Kids are an incredibly DIY outfit - in the best of ways - and have been hustling in Nashville, playing shows and recording music independently, since they formed during their freshman year of college in the fall of 2013.
They've been post-grad for a year now, and "Fever" is the first piece of a new collection they've been working on - it marks a really exciting chapter for them, WEBSITE.
We featured The Pressure Kids once before in 2016, describing them as playing "Melodic indie rock, with really pleasing vocals and harmonies." Clearly that was no one off as 'Fever' ably demonstrates. The band have a more refined feel to them, the hooks are constant and a soft yet upbeat lilt makes for a gorgeous feeling throughout.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heather O'Neill - Nicotine and Neon.
Background - Heather O’Neill was born in Ireland and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, living in 18 other contrasting environments before the age of 30. This deeply varied experience of the world shaped her into a truly modern gypsy, a lifestyle that naturally informed her music – a provocative blend of singer-songwriter blues, marinated in a gumbo of soul, rock and folk.
O’Neill began recording in 2004 and has since released two LP’s and one EP. Initially inspired the punk femme ethos of the 90’s, Heather eventually settled into stripped-down, acoustic-based songs for her first albums, a format which came in handy as she canvased the Midwest and gigged around LA, NYC, Seattle and London. These releases and subsequent tours were rewarded with press, international podcasts and nods from hometown tastemakers like Radio One Chicago, drawing comparisons to Erykah Badu and Ani DiFranco.
Her newest EP album, Transmute, is an honest outpouring concerning the ineffable and often bittersweet emotions inherent in the metamorphic human experience. The alchemic process one goes through, in hopes to vibrate higher, is often plagued by darkness, along with a lion’s share of beauty. “It’s about realizing that certain behavior no longer feeds you, but struggling with the innate attraction to those dark aspects along the journey” Heather concedes. “Like Mercurius from Roman mythology, I try to ‘enjoy my time equally with both the good and the wicked.” WEBSITE.
Chunky bass riffs and a constant beat give the music a stripped back and potent feel on 'Nicotine and Neon'. Heather O'Neill's vocals add the melodic dimension, giving the song character and at two and a half minutes duration, it's over before it's begun, ensuring a second spin is mandatory at the very least.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jason Isbell - Crystal Clear / Racetrack Romeo.
Background - New West Records is set to release Jason Isbell’s Sirens Of The Ditch (Deluxe Edition) this Friday, July 13th, 2018. Originally issued in 2007, Isbell’s solo debut was met with critical acclaim upon its release with SPIN calling it “...a gorgeously whisky-soaked country-soul masterpiece,” American Songwriter declaring it, “...a decadent debut,” and Pitchfork stating that it was “...a strong debut full of the kind of confident, charismatic songwriting that just can’t be taught.”
Co-produced by Isbell and his former Drive-By Truckers bandmate, Patterson Hood, Sirens Of The Ditch was recorded at the legendary FAME recording studio (Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett) in Isbell’s hometown of Muscle Shoals, AL. “A lot of old soul musicians came through here in the late ‘60s and ‘70s and helped define the Muscle Shoals sound, so that influence was always in my environment, but on this record I really tried to capture that,” Isbell stated in the album’s original press release.
On Sirens Of The Ditch (Deluxe Edition), Isbell is joined by Brad Morgan of the Drive-By Truckers on drums, and former Drive-By Truckers member, Shonna Tucker on bass. Several musicians pop in for cameos including the iconic Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section players David Hood (Patterson’s Father) and Spooner Oldham on “Down In A Hole,” John Neff of Drive-By Truckers on “Dress Blues” and Patterson Hood on “Shotgun Wedding.”
Sirens Of The Ditch (Deluxe Edition) features four previously unreleased songs from the original sessions at FAME, bringing the new, expanded track listing to 15 total songs. LABEL.
We are sharing two of the unreleased, bonus tracks 'Crystal Clear' and also 'Racetrack Romeo'. The first is a laid back, bluesy rocker that gradually gathers momentum and a few more rock and roll layers of sound. The latter track has something of a ballad style to it, the natural rock vibes and passion are again present the only question I have is an obvious one, how were these not included on the original album?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - Honoring the collective legacies of Memphis, Muscle Shoals and New Orleans, The West Coast Feed – eight members strong -- generates a modern and electrifying swagger rock/soul experience. The tight backbeat of the rhythm section, a vibrant three-man horn section, tandem electric guitars and a soaring violin set the stage for the commanding voice of charismatic front man, Jesse Butterworth.
Since the Seattle, WA-based band’s formation one short year ago, The West Coast Feed has filled clubs and theaters by word of mouth, drawing audiences to an experience of sound and sensation that makes sitting still impossible. With their highly anticipated self-titled full-length debut, founding member/guitarist and accomplished recording engineer Matt Woll polishes the sweat, grit and energy of the band into a sonic studio shimmer.
Jesse Butterworth’s résumé includes fronting an award winning, label- signed band with a #1 radio hit, on their way to the proverbial big time. But in the middle of a sold out show in Los Angeles, Jesse’s flying leap off the drum riser resulted in a compound leg fracture, and the sudden end of a dream.
He compares the experience to dropping off a cliff and a total loss of momentum. But after relocating to Seattle he met a kindred musical spirit in Matt Woll and the two friends formed The West Coast Feed. “We called up the best players that we knew,” and over a two-month period there would be a new member each week, expanding exponentially from two members to their current eight-man lineup.
Philanthropic support is a central theme to the band’s mission as they have partnered with two non-profit organizations for benefit shows: charity:water, and All God’s Children International. The latter group, an organization that cares for orphans and facilitates international adoptions, is especially close to Jesse’s heart, as it provided a path for him and his wife to adopt their Ethiopian-born daughter Harper. Their adoption journey is captured in the band’s lively debut single “You Belong to Me.” WEBSITE.
'You Belong To Me' is a little rambunctious, hugely slick and can comfortably have the term 'timeless' attached to it. Rock and Roll with plenty of classic Soul is performed vocally with a sense of urgency and passion, whilst the band have that consummate professional sound, whilst still knowing how to party and enjoy themselves.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chantitown - Mother of Sun
Background - Chantitown has released an enchanting video for 'Mother of Sun'. The London-born, former Performing Arts student has been writing and experimenting with sound since an early age, realising her ever-ambitious true calling at just 13 years old. Chantitown grew up in a household filled with musical influence and received her first musical lesson whilst at still in school, whilst knowing that her passion for music was a “soul-connection that ran deep” , and vowing on this ever since.
So naturally, Chantitown took the time to research, and self-educate herself on the vast plethora of musical genres the world had to offer, including classical, folk, urban, rock, etc. But this is no limit - only until her introduction to poetry, did Chantitown truly find her place in ultimate expression, by contributing her own inward thoughts and words as sole influence to her songwriting capabilities.
Chantitown is heavily influenced by accomplished or legendary songwriters such as Joni Mitchell, Carol King and Tracy Chapman, to the electronic trip-hop hypnotics provided by Massive Attack, Portishead, and MGMT. Chantitown can be stylistically compared to Bat For Lashes, Lorde or even Cat Power for heartfelt, yet raw and immersive presentation, compelling vocal delivery and intriguing instrumental backdrops.
Her music is one that tells a story, evokes intense emotion and delight drenched in empowering, earnest lyrics, put together in an almost dream-like fashion which transports you to an ethereal plane of existence. Chantitown’s music is nothing short of majestic, leaving you ripe in anticipation whatever is next to come. WEBSITE.
The vocals are simmering with feeling on 'Mother of Sun' as they melodically work they way into your world. The music gently supports the emotional journey of this song, occasionally adding extra layers, and the video gives the piece an additional level of mystery.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Pressure Kids - Fever.
Background - The Pressure Kids, a Nashville-based indie rock five-piece, just released a new single, "Fever". It got added to Spotify's last New Music Friday playlist, and racked up over 40,000 plays in its first weekend.
The Pressure Kids are an incredibly DIY outfit - in the best of ways - and have been hustling in Nashville, playing shows and recording music independently, since they formed during their freshman year of college in the fall of 2013.
They've been post-grad for a year now, and "Fever" is the first piece of a new collection they've been working on - it marks a really exciting chapter for them, WEBSITE.
We featured The Pressure Kids once before in 2016, describing them as playing "Melodic indie rock, with really pleasing vocals and harmonies." Clearly that was no one off as 'Fever' ably demonstrates. The band have a more refined feel to them, the hooks are constant and a soft yet upbeat lilt makes for a gorgeous feeling throughout.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heather O'Neill - Nicotine and Neon.
Background - Heather O’Neill was born in Ireland and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, living in 18 other contrasting environments before the age of 30. This deeply varied experience of the world shaped her into a truly modern gypsy, a lifestyle that naturally informed her music – a provocative blend of singer-songwriter blues, marinated in a gumbo of soul, rock and folk.
O’Neill began recording in 2004 and has since released two LP’s and one EP. Initially inspired the punk femme ethos of the 90’s, Heather eventually settled into stripped-down, acoustic-based songs for her first albums, a format which came in handy as she canvased the Midwest and gigged around LA, NYC, Seattle and London. These releases and subsequent tours were rewarded with press, international podcasts and nods from hometown tastemakers like Radio One Chicago, drawing comparisons to Erykah Badu and Ani DiFranco.
Her newest EP album, Transmute, is an honest outpouring concerning the ineffable and often bittersweet emotions inherent in the metamorphic human experience. The alchemic process one goes through, in hopes to vibrate higher, is often plagued by darkness, along with a lion’s share of beauty. “It’s about realizing that certain behavior no longer feeds you, but struggling with the innate attraction to those dark aspects along the journey” Heather concedes. “Like Mercurius from Roman mythology, I try to ‘enjoy my time equally with both the good and the wicked.” WEBSITE.
Chunky bass riffs and a constant beat give the music a stripped back and potent feel on 'Nicotine and Neon'. Heather O'Neill's vocals add the melodic dimension, giving the song character and at two and a half minutes duration, it's over before it's begun, ensuring a second spin is mandatory at the very least.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jason Isbell - Crystal Clear / Racetrack Romeo.
Background - New West Records is set to release Jason Isbell’s Sirens Of The Ditch (Deluxe Edition) this Friday, July 13th, 2018. Originally issued in 2007, Isbell’s solo debut was met with critical acclaim upon its release with SPIN calling it “...a gorgeously whisky-soaked country-soul masterpiece,” American Songwriter declaring it, “...a decadent debut,” and Pitchfork stating that it was “...a strong debut full of the kind of confident, charismatic songwriting that just can’t be taught.”
Co-produced by Isbell and his former Drive-By Truckers bandmate, Patterson Hood, Sirens Of The Ditch was recorded at the legendary FAME recording studio (Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett) in Isbell’s hometown of Muscle Shoals, AL. “A lot of old soul musicians came through here in the late ‘60s and ‘70s and helped define the Muscle Shoals sound, so that influence was always in my environment, but on this record I really tried to capture that,” Isbell stated in the album’s original press release.
On Sirens Of The Ditch (Deluxe Edition), Isbell is joined by Brad Morgan of the Drive-By Truckers on drums, and former Drive-By Truckers member, Shonna Tucker on bass. Several musicians pop in for cameos including the iconic Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section players David Hood (Patterson’s Father) and Spooner Oldham on “Down In A Hole,” John Neff of Drive-By Truckers on “Dress Blues” and Patterson Hood on “Shotgun Wedding.”
Sirens Of The Ditch (Deluxe Edition) features four previously unreleased songs from the original sessions at FAME, bringing the new, expanded track listing to 15 total songs. LABEL.
We are sharing two of the unreleased, bonus tracks 'Crystal Clear' and also 'Racetrack Romeo'. The first is a laid back, bluesy rocker that gradually gathers momentum and a few more rock and roll layers of sound. The latter track has something of a ballad style to it, the natural rock vibes and passion are again present the only question I have is an obvious one, how were these not included on the original album?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, 10 July 2018
Frontperson - Winters End
Frontperson – Tick-Tock (Frontrunner)
Background - Frontperson is the new project from Kathryn Calder (vocalist and keyboardist for The New Pornographers) and Mark Andrew Hamilton (who has released six albums as Woodpigeon).
The duo are pleased to share the video for “Tick - Tock (Frontrunner)” the first single from their debut album, Frontrunner, out 21 September on Calder’s own Oscar St. Records label. The video shows a track and field event shot backwards in slow motion, which is also reflected in the album artwork.
For the making of their debut album, Frontperson were joined by Melissa McWilliams (drums, drum machine), Jen Sévertson (bass, also of Peach Pyramid), Clea Foofat (cello, also of Raleigh and Dojo Workhorse), Foon Yap (violin), Marek Tyler (percussion, also of nêhiyawak), and producer Colin Stewart (The Cave Singers, Dan Mangan, Black Mountain). BANDCAMP.
'Tick-Tock (Frontrunner)' opens with an understated vibe, the melody gently creating some refreshing hooks, and the dual vocals interact beautifully. It's alt or indie rock or something else along those lines, that it is both pleasing and rather catchy, is something of an understatement.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Winters End - Ivy.
Background - Hailing from Australia, sister-brother duo, Winters End are back with a new single, "Ivy." Written in the midst of a breakup, "Ivy" is about as honest and emotive as relationship-ending anthems come.
Marissa (vocals) recounts the inescapable feeling of being torn apart from a long-term lover, facing the end of her relationship while writing "Ivy,"—and then again during recording, where she forced herself to cry in order to capture the pain she felt. It's powerful enough to make you wonder if you're going through a break up yourself. Even if you're single AF.
Along with the new single, we're proud to announce Winters End's upcoming "Dreamwalker" EP, due August 23rd, 2018. The EP was produced by Lachlan Mitchell (The Jezabels, Phil Collins, The Whitlams). Marissa wrote and recorded all vocals and melodic instruments on "DreamWalker," while Christopher wrote all percussion parts. TWITTER.
"Break Up" songs have been around for a long, long time and can be heavy going at times. 'Ivy' however mixes passionate and genuine vocals against an impressive musical backdrop. The end result is earnest, powerful and surprisingly engaging, becoming more of an anthem, than classic tearjerker material.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - Frontperson is the new project from Kathryn Calder (vocalist and keyboardist for The New Pornographers) and Mark Andrew Hamilton (who has released six albums as Woodpigeon).
The duo are pleased to share the video for “Tick - Tock (Frontrunner)” the first single from their debut album, Frontrunner, out 21 September on Calder’s own Oscar St. Records label. The video shows a track and field event shot backwards in slow motion, which is also reflected in the album artwork.
For the making of their debut album, Frontperson were joined by Melissa McWilliams (drums, drum machine), Jen Sévertson (bass, also of Peach Pyramid), Clea Foofat (cello, also of Raleigh and Dojo Workhorse), Foon Yap (violin), Marek Tyler (percussion, also of nêhiyawak), and producer Colin Stewart (The Cave Singers, Dan Mangan, Black Mountain). BANDCAMP.
'Tick-Tock (Frontrunner)' opens with an understated vibe, the melody gently creating some refreshing hooks, and the dual vocals interact beautifully. It's alt or indie rock or something else along those lines, that it is both pleasing and rather catchy, is something of an understatement.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Winters End - Ivy.
Background - Hailing from Australia, sister-brother duo, Winters End are back with a new single, "Ivy." Written in the midst of a breakup, "Ivy" is about as honest and emotive as relationship-ending anthems come.
Marissa (vocals) recounts the inescapable feeling of being torn apart from a long-term lover, facing the end of her relationship while writing "Ivy,"—and then again during recording, where she forced herself to cry in order to capture the pain she felt. It's powerful enough to make you wonder if you're going through a break up yourself. Even if you're single AF.
Along with the new single, we're proud to announce Winters End's upcoming "Dreamwalker" EP, due August 23rd, 2018. The EP was produced by Lachlan Mitchell (The Jezabels, Phil Collins, The Whitlams). Marissa wrote and recorded all vocals and melodic instruments on "DreamWalker," while Christopher wrote all percussion parts. TWITTER.
"Break Up" songs have been around for a long, long time and can be heavy going at times. 'Ivy' however mixes passionate and genuine vocals against an impressive musical backdrop. The end result is earnest, powerful and surprisingly engaging, becoming more of an anthem, than classic tearjerker material.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, 9 July 2018
Favours - Maybe April - The Room In The Wood
Favours - In The Night.
Background - Favours are a band that that you will never hear from…unless we need something. Born out of personal rediscovery, we sing of the delightful fantasies and harsh realities of adulthood. How fitting that we practice in an office space after hours.
“In The Night” is a ballad for those stuck in an unfulfilling cycle of repetition. Recorded with Josh Korody (Dilly Dally, Weaves) at Candle Recording Studio, it’s about escaping from the banality of the day and longing for the dreams that seem just out of reach. Dreams of star-crossed lovers destined to meet in another world, or those who do meet and cannot be together, tearing them apart at the seams.
The eerie, cult vibes of “In The Night” were brought to life in a house abandoned for over two decades. Having a blank canvas and the ability to conjure up any world we wanted allowed us to dream up the weirdest one possible. Influenced by stills from our favourite Criterion films and the Sannyasins of Oregon, we created a utopia dominated by women in baby blue. An unsuspecting and innocent teen enters a new world where he is doomed to serve these enchantresses forever. FACEBOOK.
The videos has plenty of ingredients that sync just right with the song 'In The Night', however this is a fine musical piece that packs plenty of intrigue and atmosphere, to the point where with or without the imagery, Favours new ballad is hard to resist.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maybe April - You Were My Young.
Background - Nashville-based indie country/Americana trio Maybe April (Alaina Stacey, Katy DuBois, Kristen Castro) have released a music video for their new track, “You Were My Young,” which is the first single from their upcoming debut album due out this fall. Wide Open Country premiered the Colling Films-directed video yesterday, stating, “Built on the trio’s folk instrumentation and airy vocals, ‘You Were My Young’ is a nostalgic look at the highs and lows of your first real love.” Of the single, Maybe April offered, “It’s a special song for us, because when we were 17 and 18 the three of us first connected over our first heartbreaks.”
Filmed partly on a high school auditorium stage and with lead actors who are both actual high school students, the video chronicles the innocent bliss of being 17 and in love, the seemingly tragic end of your last teenage summer together, and the feeling years later when you reminisce about the relationship that prepared your heart for the romances of your 20s. Paste Magazine also featured the “reflective” video, adding, “The song is warm with familiarity and Stacey’s lead vocals wind through smoothly, even as the couple in the video drifts apart...The balmy three-part harmonies give the vocals depth while creating a feeling of solidarity in the song’s lyrical journey.” Additionally, The Boot included “You Were My Young” in today’s roundup of their favorite country music videos of the week. The track is available digitally everywhere today and the video can be viewed/shared now at the link below.
A dynamic trio of impressive songwriters, vocalists, and multi-instrumentalists who share roles as frontwomen, Maybe April was recently named one of 2018’s "Rising Acts" by CMT for their “soul-stirring three-part harmonies” that are "as alluring as their lyrics." The group first met at a music industry camp in Nashville in 2012, where they penned a song together that would take them to Los Angeles for a special performance during Grammy week, along with Bonnie Raitt, Kris Kristofferson, Allen Shamblin, J.D. Souther, and Joy Williams (of the Civil Wars), among others. They have since opened for Brandy Clark and Sarah Jarosz, as well as made appearances at Pilgrimage Music Festival and IBMA's Wide Open Bluegrass Festival. WEBSITE.
The Americana genre is an expansive place where 'You Were My Young' comfortably fits, perhaps it's becoming a lazy catch all, for anything from traditional roots music through to more modern country styles (and all places in between). It's therefore easier just to focus on the fabulous vocals, harmonies and uncomplicated acoustic backdrop, all of which are delicious, at the very least.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Room In The Wood - Greedy Stars.
Background - Liverpool-based The Room in the Wood have announced 'Greedy Stars' as the second single off their self-titled debut album, complete with a new video edited by Helen Stringer. This LP represents the first time band members Paul Cavanagh and Dave Jackson have worked together since their post-punk band The Room split back in 1985. Reunited as The Room in the Wood, this past year has seen them write over 30 new songs. Together with collaborator and ace drummer Colin George Lamont, they developed and honed these ideas down to this 11-track offering.
Released via A Turntable Friend Records, this album comes hot on the trail of their 'Magical Thinking' EP. While this album is being released on vinyl, the CD and digital versions include 'Vermillion Sands' as a bonus track.
This album was recorded with Steve Powell (Michael Head & the Red Elastic Band) at his Liverpool Arc studio and features contributions by drummers Colin George Lamont (Mark Lanegan, Dave Gahan) and Jake Woodward (Peter Perrett).
This new material has been an exciting voyage of musical exploration in a new fruitful and prolific tandem. Jackson’s lyrical storytelling combines with Cavanagh’s exquisite guitar-stylings, making for a fine blend of post-punk pop, gritty blues-folk, and velvety ballads, variously influenced by Russian fairy tales, Francis Bacon, dead oceans, swimming pool bridges and unanswered prayers. This is eerie space-folk meets bluesy-glam-punk – an eclectic mix of styles, prioritising melodic storytelling and lots of strum and twang. FACEBOOK.
Classic cinema meets a far more modern musical style with 'Greedy Stars' a song that straddles genres, doing so with heart and feeling. Add in some thoughtful lyrical foundations, plus melodic hooks and the track makes a perfect tease for The Room In The Wood's reunion album.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - Favours are a band that that you will never hear from…unless we need something. Born out of personal rediscovery, we sing of the delightful fantasies and harsh realities of adulthood. How fitting that we practice in an office space after hours.
“In The Night” is a ballad for those stuck in an unfulfilling cycle of repetition. Recorded with Josh Korody (Dilly Dally, Weaves) at Candle Recording Studio, it’s about escaping from the banality of the day and longing for the dreams that seem just out of reach. Dreams of star-crossed lovers destined to meet in another world, or those who do meet and cannot be together, tearing them apart at the seams.
The eerie, cult vibes of “In The Night” were brought to life in a house abandoned for over two decades. Having a blank canvas and the ability to conjure up any world we wanted allowed us to dream up the weirdest one possible. Influenced by stills from our favourite Criterion films and the Sannyasins of Oregon, we created a utopia dominated by women in baby blue. An unsuspecting and innocent teen enters a new world where he is doomed to serve these enchantresses forever. FACEBOOK.
The videos has plenty of ingredients that sync just right with the song 'In The Night', however this is a fine musical piece that packs plenty of intrigue and atmosphere, to the point where with or without the imagery, Favours new ballad is hard to resist.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maybe April - You Were My Young.
Background - Nashville-based indie country/Americana trio Maybe April (Alaina Stacey, Katy DuBois, Kristen Castro) have released a music video for their new track, “You Were My Young,” which is the first single from their upcoming debut album due out this fall. Wide Open Country premiered the Colling Films-directed video yesterday, stating, “Built on the trio’s folk instrumentation and airy vocals, ‘You Were My Young’ is a nostalgic look at the highs and lows of your first real love.” Of the single, Maybe April offered, “It’s a special song for us, because when we were 17 and 18 the three of us first connected over our first heartbreaks.”
Filmed partly on a high school auditorium stage and with lead actors who are both actual high school students, the video chronicles the innocent bliss of being 17 and in love, the seemingly tragic end of your last teenage summer together, and the feeling years later when you reminisce about the relationship that prepared your heart for the romances of your 20s. Paste Magazine also featured the “reflective” video, adding, “The song is warm with familiarity and Stacey’s lead vocals wind through smoothly, even as the couple in the video drifts apart...The balmy three-part harmonies give the vocals depth while creating a feeling of solidarity in the song’s lyrical journey.” Additionally, The Boot included “You Were My Young” in today’s roundup of their favorite country music videos of the week. The track is available digitally everywhere today and the video can be viewed/shared now at the link below.
A dynamic trio of impressive songwriters, vocalists, and multi-instrumentalists who share roles as frontwomen, Maybe April was recently named one of 2018’s "Rising Acts" by CMT for their “soul-stirring three-part harmonies” that are "as alluring as their lyrics." The group first met at a music industry camp in Nashville in 2012, where they penned a song together that would take them to Los Angeles for a special performance during Grammy week, along with Bonnie Raitt, Kris Kristofferson, Allen Shamblin, J.D. Souther, and Joy Williams (of the Civil Wars), among others. They have since opened for Brandy Clark and Sarah Jarosz, as well as made appearances at Pilgrimage Music Festival and IBMA's Wide Open Bluegrass Festival. WEBSITE.
The Americana genre is an expansive place where 'You Were My Young' comfortably fits, perhaps it's becoming a lazy catch all, for anything from traditional roots music through to more modern country styles (and all places in between). It's therefore easier just to focus on the fabulous vocals, harmonies and uncomplicated acoustic backdrop, all of which are delicious, at the very least.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Room In The Wood - Greedy Stars.
Background - Liverpool-based The Room in the Wood have announced 'Greedy Stars' as the second single off their self-titled debut album, complete with a new video edited by Helen Stringer. This LP represents the first time band members Paul Cavanagh and Dave Jackson have worked together since their post-punk band The Room split back in 1985. Reunited as The Room in the Wood, this past year has seen them write over 30 new songs. Together with collaborator and ace drummer Colin George Lamont, they developed and honed these ideas down to this 11-track offering.
Released via A Turntable Friend Records, this album comes hot on the trail of their 'Magical Thinking' EP. While this album is being released on vinyl, the CD and digital versions include 'Vermillion Sands' as a bonus track.
This album was recorded with Steve Powell (Michael Head & the Red Elastic Band) at his Liverpool Arc studio and features contributions by drummers Colin George Lamont (Mark Lanegan, Dave Gahan) and Jake Woodward (Peter Perrett).
This new material has been an exciting voyage of musical exploration in a new fruitful and prolific tandem. Jackson’s lyrical storytelling combines with Cavanagh’s exquisite guitar-stylings, making for a fine blend of post-punk pop, gritty blues-folk, and velvety ballads, variously influenced by Russian fairy tales, Francis Bacon, dead oceans, swimming pool bridges and unanswered prayers. This is eerie space-folk meets bluesy-glam-punk – an eclectic mix of styles, prioritising melodic storytelling and lots of strum and twang. FACEBOOK.
Classic cinema meets a far more modern musical style with 'Greedy Stars' a song that straddles genres, doing so with heart and feeling. Add in some thoughtful lyrical foundations, plus melodic hooks and the track makes a perfect tease for The Room In The Wood's reunion album.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 8 July 2018
The Callas With Lee Ranaldo - NewTown - Mother Mink
The Callas With Lee Ranaldo - Acid Books.
Background - The Callas' latest single with Sonic Youth's Lee Ranaldo, "Acid Books" is out this week with its taut, post-punk grooves and hypnotic, scuzzed-up guitar lines, The Callas will find favor with fans of The Velvet Underground, The Horrors, and Neu!.
Meet The Callas…Led by brothers Lakis and Aris Ionas, the pair helm a Greek-based art, film and music collective, as well as hosting art and music events at their studio/performance space in Athens–the Velvet Room. As a band, The Callas feature Aris on guitar/vocals, Lakis on bass/vocals, as well as Chrysanthi Tsoukala on drums/vocals and Marilena Petridou on percussion. In 2016, the group collaborated with Lee Renaldo (Sonic Youth) on a soundtrack for their film The Great Eastern, and they have teamed up once again on The Callas upcoming LP Trouble and Desire due out October 26th via Inner Ear Records/Dirty Water Records. Discussing their work together, Ranaldo explains:
"Our collaboration took off quickly and was such a natural fit - we speak the same language and the performances we’ve done together have been a total blast! I love the community of artists that they have gathered around them, and I hope we will do more collaborations in the future”.
Acid Books” is our first listen in on The Callas upcoming album and it’s a post-punk burner brimming with frenzied energy. Opening with a swirl of droning ambiance and the rhetorical question, “Do you sleep at night?”, the track quickly launches headlong into a fever of activity. With the anxious pulse of a hard-driving bassline to lead the way, and punctuated by terse outbursts of guitar, The Callas pack a tightly wound sonic punch. Narrated by a vocal interplay between the group’s male and female members, and featuring the tumult of a shout-along chorus, the band’s dense gravity of sound will have you pumping your fist in triumph even as it drags you in a downward spiral with its dark undertow. WEBSITE.
A low key introduction with spoken words is the calm before the storm on 'Acid Books' which erupts into punk infused rock and roll with a battery of hooks to dig in deep, as the band deliver their lively brand of post art punk.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Newtown - Heart of Stone.
Background - NewTown continues to journey into their own progressive acoustic music with this stylistic Tyler Childers song, “Heart of Stone.”
Following the release of “Naomi Wise,” “Heart of Stone” is about a woman who does what she has to do to survive when hard times strike. The choppy, image-filled poetic lines sung by NewTown’s Kati Penn Williams paint a picture that leaves a mystery as to whether the “Heart of Stone” is one of cruelty, strength or both. Her delivery is both wayward and delicate and fitting to the restlessness of the lyrics from Childers, who is quickly becoming an acclaimed Roots Country songwriter.
This song continues the release of singles off the band’s upcoming release, NewTown, Old World, a selection of material that expresses the group’s talent for adding modern elements to traditional music. “Heart of Stone” is an example of how NewTown and their contemporaries are transforming and rejuvenating traditional southern music for the modern age. It’s a skilled blending of the conventional and the current.
“After I heard the song the first time, I couldn’t get the melody out of my head the rest of the day, so that put this one at the top of the list for me,” says Kati Penn Williams. “We hope you enjoy our groovy arrangement of this one.” WEBSITE.
Following on from 'Naomi Wise' a song we featured at the end of May we now have 'Heart Of Stone' another gorgeous slice of traditionally based Americana. Expect superb vocals and a fabulous musical backdrop, something NewTown do with seeming ease.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mother Mink - Coconut.
Background - The new single Coconut is a Pina colada oozing psych indie explosion from theatric electro popband Mother Mink. "Experiment and hit making is not two separate issues for us", says Mother Mink.
As usual, when Mother Mink releases new material there are dozens of fresh influences baked into the mix. This time, the inspiration comes from the tropical paradises but the band's sound is still distinct with rough drum loops, bit crushed synthesizers and Johan Axelsson’s sub baritone saxophone. And like that wasn’t enough, on top of this Mother Mink also spices things up with the charismatic singer Fanny Wistrands’s soulful voice.
Coconut is all about the exotic dream of the tropics. The tune is a comment on the blown up expectations of the perfect vacation that prevails in today’s western society. The tune is about how tourism really can destroy a country.
In the end, it’s a heads up to seizing the day and be happy with what you have! Happiness is all around you, not only on a tropical beach at the other side of the world. WEBSITE.
In Beehive Candy land we have been enduring something of a very sunny heatwave for the past few weeks, and a song such as 'Coconut' seems quite appropriate, with it's compelling summer charm. It might not be the tropics here, but I will settle for the sentiments of the bands song, a stay at home vacation is hot enough anyway this year.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Background - The Callas' latest single with Sonic Youth's Lee Ranaldo, "Acid Books" is out this week with its taut, post-punk grooves and hypnotic, scuzzed-up guitar lines, The Callas will find favor with fans of The Velvet Underground, The Horrors, and Neu!.
Meet The Callas…Led by brothers Lakis and Aris Ionas, the pair helm a Greek-based art, film and music collective, as well as hosting art and music events at their studio/performance space in Athens–the Velvet Room. As a band, The Callas feature Aris on guitar/vocals, Lakis on bass/vocals, as well as Chrysanthi Tsoukala on drums/vocals and Marilena Petridou on percussion. In 2016, the group collaborated with Lee Renaldo (Sonic Youth) on a soundtrack for their film The Great Eastern, and they have teamed up once again on The Callas upcoming LP Trouble and Desire due out October 26th via Inner Ear Records/Dirty Water Records. Discussing their work together, Ranaldo explains:
"Our collaboration took off quickly and was such a natural fit - we speak the same language and the performances we’ve done together have been a total blast! I love the community of artists that they have gathered around them, and I hope we will do more collaborations in the future”.
Acid Books” is our first listen in on The Callas upcoming album and it’s a post-punk burner brimming with frenzied energy. Opening with a swirl of droning ambiance and the rhetorical question, “Do you sleep at night?”, the track quickly launches headlong into a fever of activity. With the anxious pulse of a hard-driving bassline to lead the way, and punctuated by terse outbursts of guitar, The Callas pack a tightly wound sonic punch. Narrated by a vocal interplay between the group’s male and female members, and featuring the tumult of a shout-along chorus, the band’s dense gravity of sound will have you pumping your fist in triumph even as it drags you in a downward spiral with its dark undertow. WEBSITE.
A low key introduction with spoken words is the calm before the storm on 'Acid Books' which erupts into punk infused rock and roll with a battery of hooks to dig in deep, as the band deliver their lively brand of post art punk.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Newtown - Heart of Stone.
Background - NewTown continues to journey into their own progressive acoustic music with this stylistic Tyler Childers song, “Heart of Stone.”
Following the release of “Naomi Wise,” “Heart of Stone” is about a woman who does what she has to do to survive when hard times strike. The choppy, image-filled poetic lines sung by NewTown’s Kati Penn Williams paint a picture that leaves a mystery as to whether the “Heart of Stone” is one of cruelty, strength or both. Her delivery is both wayward and delicate and fitting to the restlessness of the lyrics from Childers, who is quickly becoming an acclaimed Roots Country songwriter.
This song continues the release of singles off the band’s upcoming release, NewTown, Old World, a selection of material that expresses the group’s talent for adding modern elements to traditional music. “Heart of Stone” is an example of how NewTown and their contemporaries are transforming and rejuvenating traditional southern music for the modern age. It’s a skilled blending of the conventional and the current.
“After I heard the song the first time, I couldn’t get the melody out of my head the rest of the day, so that put this one at the top of the list for me,” says Kati Penn Williams. “We hope you enjoy our groovy arrangement of this one.” WEBSITE.
Following on from 'Naomi Wise' a song we featured at the end of May we now have 'Heart Of Stone' another gorgeous slice of traditionally based Americana. Expect superb vocals and a fabulous musical backdrop, something NewTown do with seeming ease.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mother Mink - Coconut.
Background - The new single Coconut is a Pina colada oozing psych indie explosion from theatric electro popband Mother Mink. "Experiment and hit making is not two separate issues for us", says Mother Mink.
As usual, when Mother Mink releases new material there are dozens of fresh influences baked into the mix. This time, the inspiration comes from the tropical paradises but the band's sound is still distinct with rough drum loops, bit crushed synthesizers and Johan Axelsson’s sub baritone saxophone. And like that wasn’t enough, on top of this Mother Mink also spices things up with the charismatic singer Fanny Wistrands’s soulful voice.
Coconut is all about the exotic dream of the tropics. The tune is a comment on the blown up expectations of the perfect vacation that prevails in today’s western society. The tune is about how tourism really can destroy a country.
In the end, it’s a heads up to seizing the day and be happy with what you have! Happiness is all around you, not only on a tropical beach at the other side of the world. WEBSITE.
In Beehive Candy land we have been enduring something of a very sunny heatwave for the past few weeks, and a song such as 'Coconut' seems quite appropriate, with it's compelling summer charm. It might not be the tropics here, but I will settle for the sentiments of the bands song, a stay at home vacation is hot enough anyway this year.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
-
I do not intend to write about Nick Drake here, except to echo the common view held by so many, who have come across his music down the yea...
-
The Hello Darlins - Don't You Fall. After making one of the biggest breakthroughs on the international Americana scene with their debut...
-
Helven - u my homie. Emerging Norwegian alt-pop artist Helven has announced that she will release her debut EP volume 1 via Jansen Records ...
-
Sister Wives - O Dŷ i Dŷ / Streets At Night. Sister Wives have shared two more tracks from their forthcoming debut album. The Double A sing...
-
Matilda Mann - You Look Like You Can’t Swim (EP). The incredibly talented Londoner Matilda Mann has shared her latest EP “You Look Like You...
Greta Gaines - Pharmacists - Nelson Bragg
Photo - Stacie Huckeba Greta Gaines - Coming to Fruition. Greta Gaines is excited to announce the August 29th release of her new album. Bird...
