Curtsy - Benjamin Folke Thomas - O Future

Curtsy - A Better Pet.

Background - “A Better Pet” combines unforgiving rhythmic momentum with captivating melodies to evoke the self-destructive apprehension that too often plagues the insecure romantic. It's about an individual who picks fights in their first relationship because they're more comfortable with chaos than coming to terms with the idea of needing someone.

The video concept revolves around freedom from insecurity--allowing yourself to enjoy life with the people you love in a no-rules territory. We want to enjoy life and have fun with no strings attached. Sharing these kinds of moments with the people we love is the greatest feeling in the world. These are nights where we feel free and have more fun than we've had in a long time.

Curtsy is an indie-rock five piece consisting of Austin Knecht, Crystal Napoles, Kai Dodson, Tamara Simons, and Jonathan Palmquist. Curtsy was formed when Austin Knecht (vocals, guitar) auditioned as a lap steel player for a country-folk band fronted by Crystal Napoles (vocals, keys). After bonding over their mutual love of 80s pop and 90s shoegaze, the pair began writing together.

Jonathan Palmquist (drums), Kai Dodson (bass), and Tamara Simons (guitar) joined the pair along the way, forming a completive, rich rhythm section. Their sound incorporates lush indie pop with dreamy guitars over driving rhythms and haunting boy/girl harmonies wrapped around perfect pop hooks—a sound that creates something both familiar and unique. TWITTER.

The video adds a story line to 'A Better Pet', that said, this gorgeously flowing indie rocker stands on it's own. With plenty of hooks and a clear, polished and notable overall sound, accompanied by natural rock and roll feeling, the band stand out in this highly populated musical genre.


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Benjamin Folke Thomas - Tasteless and Complacent.

Background - Scandinavian-born Benjamin Folke Thomas announced new album Modern Man to be released on November 9th, a follow up to 2017s Copenhagen (8/10 Uncut), including new single Tasteless and Complacent.

The ten songs on Modern Man draw from Folk, Country and the blues, to reveal the inner thoughts of a songwriter torn between supreme self-confidence and fear of the future.

Folke Thomas was born in the coldest winter recorded in modern day history in Gothenburg; perhaps his obsession for sad, lamenting country songs was inevitable; and grew up on a secluded island off the coast of Sweden, populated by mainly evangelical Christians. However, 

Ben never found God. He discovered grunge music instead, and at the age of 11 he was playing drums in a punk band before turning to Folk and Americana music after seeing Kurt Cobain’s performance of ‘In The Pines’ on Unplugged. Steeping himself in Leadbelly, Dylan, and Leonard Cohen, by the age of 20 he was an accomplished finger-picker, confident performer, and mature songwriter. BANDCAMP.

'Tasteless and Complacent' is rich with character and quality. Benjamin's vocals are distinct and very likable, the song has an uptempo modern folk feel, the video adds some humour and angst, the new album is a tantalising prospect.


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 O Future - Stay.

Background - O Future consists of Katherine Mills Rymer from South Africa and Jens Bjornkjaer originally from Denmark both now living in Los Angeles.

They have previously released two albums under their previous name OOFJ which have been featured in hundreds of international media including The New York Times, The Guardian (Band of the week), and many many others. Their song Smell You is taken from their upcoming album titled Voyeur produced by themselves, mixed by David Tolomei (Future Islands, Dirty Projectors) and features the drummer from Trentemoller, the drummer from Chet Faker and the Royal Danish Orchestra. It is a mix of electronics, voice and symphony orchestra and is generally an attempt of mixing different genres, to produce something that has never been done before.

“I have a very intimate relationship with time. Im preoccupied with avoiding it. If I opened my eyes to the reality of it, or dealt with it like a normal person I think my heart would break.  Time is terrible. That is why i can’t stop going near it.” - Katherine Mills

Jens: I love the Nothing Compares to You video that Sinead did. Obviously, most people do. It’s so emotional. Which is hard for a music video. And its odd. Both things we are into.

Katherine: Nuns. Medieval anchorite nuns with that intense ascetic sensibility. Religious hermits basically, these nuns would be built into walls. Live in little towers added to bridges. The whole religious medieval devotion is pretty fascinating, also a bit sexy to me. This communion with their spirituality, sexuality and all the jumble and insanity of it is astounding. We love religious choir music from the middle ages as well. The ascendant horror and terror of it is very beautiful. And as always I am into repetition  as thats how my mind works, unfortunately. FACEBOOK.

O Future have a fairly unique sound here, the juxtaposition between the beats and vocals is splendid and the imagination and creativity oozes in all directions on 'Stay'. The video gives some additional artistry and collectively this is very hard to ignore and much easier to be swept away by. 


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Vulgarians - The Buoys - The Arthur Brothers

Vulgarians - Dead People Are Easier To Love.

Background - Hull’s Vulgarians are now sharing the Radio 1-supported new single, ‘Dead People Are Easier To Love’. Produced by Alex Greaves (Avalanche Party, The Orielles, Bo Ningen) at The Nave, Leeds, this is the first new music from the band since their 2017 EP, ‘Almost-Instinct, Almost True’. A bullish indicator of what's to come from Vulgarians through 2019, the band will support 'Dead People Are Easier To Love' with a string of dates through autumn 2018, including a stop at The Macbeth, London on September 27 - all tour dates below.

‘Dead People Are Easier To Love’ marks an assertive step forward for the group’s sound, turning to 80s synthesisers and the likes of Cold Cave and John Maus for inspiration. Penned just 72 hours before the band were set to record with Greaves, the new single captures a sonic and lyrical urgency that is hard to counterfeit. Speaking about the single, frontman RW Preen says: “After wandering home from wherever I had been, I noticed a blank billboard, which rather amusingly someone had tagged. I guess we live in a time where culture is so celebrity-driven and popularity accounts for happiness, it’s easy to romanticise that a blank billboard appeals to you. There’s truth and guilt in that we don’t appreciate something or someone until they’re no longer present.”

Since the release of 2016’s ‘Life’s Successful Death’ and 2017’s ‘Almost-Instinct, Almost True’, the Hull quartet have gone on to win support from Huw Stephens and Steve Lamacq (performing on Lamacq’s Introducing stage at The Great Escape), as well as touring alongside the likes of fellow Hull band, LIFE (whom they supported throughout June 2018), TRAAMS, The Wytches and Weirds. In addition, they have appeared at 53 Degrees North (Slaves, The Horrors, Dream Wife) and Another Fest (Yassassin, Heavy Lungs), ticked off a headline slot at Humber Street Sesh and secured further spots with HMLTD, Lady Bird and Protomartyr. FACEBOOK.

We have to go back around eighteen months to our only other feature for Vulgarians who impressed us then with their "anxiety and oh so close to the edge, feast of punk panic". The new track 'Dead People Are Easier To Love' is a more cohesive affair with the band producing a tight and more melodic post punk sound. The vocals remain passion filled and a tad manic in a wonderfully addictive kind of way.

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The Buoys - Arm Wrestle.

Background - Equal parts sweet and savoury, Sydney femme 4-piece The Buoys are gearing up to release their sophomore EP, after their debut Soft Boy received airtime on FBi and Triple J Unearthed, backing up shows with Aussie outfits such as Big White, Pist Idiots, Julia Why?, Georgia June, Breizers, Cakewalk and Tupperware Party.

The Buoys have a lot to send to your ear holes by way of unrelenting fuzzy guitar tones and honest raw lyrics so keep your ears out. Arm Wrestle is their latest single and has already been featured on the likes of Triple J and Fbi Radio.

"Arm Wrestle came to be when I had to address the reality of a situation. I had to explore if my thoughts were rational, or if I was making things up in my head and self sabotaging. It details that inner voice argument of, ‘something really bad is going down’ vs ‘don’t be silly, it’s all in your head, you’re crazy’. It’s an exploration of what it’s like to gaslight yourself really, only to find out your gut was right and you weren’t paranoid after all.” - Zoe

Forged in the flames of a failed tinder date, Sydney femme 4-piece The Buoys came to be when singer Zoe was introduced to drummer Tess, the cousin of said date. Next came Anthea, shredder guitarist sourced from none other than Gumtree. Then comes bassist Ros to complete the family portrait (no sponno to mention here).

Six months later and The Buoys have recorded a sophomore EP Split Lip to follow up the previous line-up’s DIY EP Soft Boy. Inspired by a workplace feud and a tonne of bad dates, Split Lip explores themes of uncertainty, disappointment, curiosity and self love. Described by Zoe as her “diary dumping ground” The Buoys writing style is just an extension of everyday relatable experiences.

Influenced by anything fuzzy, loud and fast, The Buoys have been making noise across Sydney to celebrate the release of their latest single Arm Wrestle. With the release of Split Lip at the end of the year and the inevitable return to the studio, they have plenty to send your way. BANDCAMP.

Musically 'Arm Wrestle' is a solid indie rocker that powers along with swirls of guitar and rhythm. The vocals add some emotion and further strength to this very catchy rocker.

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The Arthur Brothers - Ninth.

Background - The Arthur Brothers began life as a recording project and quickly grew into an artistic alliance centered around the biological brothers Matt and Danny Arthur and the producer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist J. C. Wright. 

Their music is inspired by a mutual obsession for inventive song-craft and a cross-generational love of classic albums with dramatic, bold and intriguing productions. Driven by a devotion to the recording process and a passionate desire to make a record full of mystery, melody, diversity and depth - the Arthurs and Wright, along with a coterie of talented contributors have been on a long and challenging creative expedition.  

Their first single release, ‘Ninth’, is the opening stage of the nine part musical adventure that will eventually be unveiled as The Arthur Brothers' debut album....Prepare to be transported through a wormhole en-route to a Westworld-style vacation, accompanied by a soundtrack of cold pianos, dark drones, tribal drums and mantra-esque vocal lines. Imagine distant echoes of Ennio Morricone, Peter Gabriel, Tears For Fears and The Velvet Underground holed-up in a prospector’s mineshaft in space, digging for gold..

'Ninth' was released at the end of August and passed me by first time around, so sometimes a follow up "pestering" by the promo agents works. A creative indie song, The Arthur Brothers have a very definitive sound, where the musical arrangement is imaginative and superbly executed, whilst the vocals add even more character and individuality to a very fine first single.

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Frigga - Dolls

Frigga - Flower Flower.

Background - Frigga the British-Norwegian artist formerly known as Sasha Siem - returns with her most cosmic and sensual single to date, ‘Flower Flower’. Conceived in her home studio in Brooklyn NYC shortly after giving birth to her son, Dylan. The song was recorded in Queens Park, London with the UK producer Danton Supple. 

‘Flower Flower’ is a bold celebration of desire, the human body and the pure pleasure of being alive. With her wizard-like word-play, Frigga courageously leads us into the darkest and most challenging of truths while at the same time being radically celebratory and empowering. 

Using sacred objects - (crystals, runes, tuning forks etc.) - to create unique percussion sounds and beats, the album also marks Frigga’s return to her first instrument - the cello. Recorded at 432 hertz - otherwise known as ‘the Love Frequency’ - the vibrations and sounds of the record are intended to ‘awaken, restore, uplift’.

Frigga studied music and poetry at Cambridge University and Harvard University. She has written music for the London Symphony Orchestra, The Royal Opera House, The London Philharmonic Orchestra and was the youngest person to receive a ‘British Composer Award.  Her first two critically acclaimed albums – ‘Most of the Boys’ and ‘Bird Burning’ - were recorded in Iceland with renowned producer Valgeir Sigurðsson and have been remixed by the likes of  Matthew Herbert, Susanne Sundford, HighasaKite, East India Youth, and Rabit. She has performed at festivals and sold-out shows across Europe and the US, including; The Forum, The Ultima Festival, (Le) Poisson Rouge, Latitude Festival, by:Larm, Barbican & Southbank Centre as well as a special album premier performance at Sadlers Wells this year. WEBSITE.

The musical backdrop is rich with detail and intriguing enough within it's self, however on 'Flower Flower' it's Frigga's vocals that really captivate and standout. Like an additional musical instrument played to perfection her singing is something to behold on this charming track.


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Dolls - Pink Bones.

Background - Dolls spent the summer working with Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds / Grinderman drummer Jim Sclavunos on their new “Pop The Bubble EP”, having spent the previous year relentlessly gigging in and around the capital, packing out venues and being heavily championed by Radio X & BBC Introducing. The 2-piece, comprising Jade (guitar and vocals) and Bel (drums and vocals), can now reveal new single ‘Pink Bones’.  It builds into a hit of their infectious brand of grunge-punk.

‘Pink Bones’ was one of the first songs they wrote together, when asked about the meaning behind it Bel explains “I believe this song is like one of those abstract paintings, it can mean many different things to whoever listens to it; and we like keeping it that way. Otherwise it ruins how far your imagination can go!”

The “Pop The Bubble EP”, set for release in September 2018, marked the first time the band have worked with producer Jim Sclavunos whose production credits include The Horrors, The Wytches and Du Blonde. The result is 4 garage-pop anthems with as much sass as they have bite. Duel vocals bounce off each other effortlessly, capturing some of the awesome chemistry these two bring to their raucous live performances.

The "Pop The Bubble EP" will be released by iconic soundtrack labels Mondo/Death Waltz on a beautiful limited edition multi-coloured and etched vinyl LP and digital. The band launch the EP at Rough Trade East with an instore show on Monday 24th September. WEBSITE.

Live Dates:
Sept 24 - Rough Trade East, London
Nov 4 - The Underworld, London.

Last month we featured 'Sugar Free' from Dolls and the follow up 'Pink Bones' is another hook fuelled song from this feisty and energised rock and roll duo, as their brand of grunge-punk sparkles again.

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Joey Sweeney & The Neon Grease - Carmody

Joey Sweeney & The Neon Grease - On Monday.

Background - The somewhat humourous new video for “On Monday” is one of the stand-out tracks from Joey Sweeney & The Neon Grease’s debut album Catholic School. The album is officially out digitally now through Burnt Toast Vinyl and The Giving Groove, with the vinyl edition to follow in late October/early November.

All releases on The Giving Groove include a charitable component, and the release of Catholic School is no exception… half of all profits from album sales, both digital and physical, will go directly to Rock To The Future, a non-profit organization that provides music education for Philadelphia’s underserved youth, at no cost to them or their families. Sweeney & Co will also be celebrating the album’s release tonight in their native Philadelphia with a proper album release show at Everybody Hits.

Over the past 25 years, Joey Sweeney has become a staple of Philadelphia’s influential songwriting and literary scene… he got his start as a music critic, before eventually fronting acclaimed Philly bands like The Trouble With Sweeney and The Barnabys, as well as recording and performing as a solo artist. Combining AM-friendly classic rock influences with what Bandcamp Daily calls “riotous” and “…jagged-edged, bristling Americana”, Catholic School is album is so steeped in dad-rock influences (and lots of sax) that it’s wearing a Members Only jacket and trying to get a job working for the city.

It’s also an album very much about cities, and the way Sweeney's city or your city is changing. You could say the city is the central character, but there’s also much about hope, falling in and out of love, being with your friends and not being with your friends... all set against the backdrop of looking for some kind of grace, while down the street, they’re tearing down your old church. TWITTER. 

We have already shared a couple of tracks from the brand new 'Catholic School' album and 'On Monday' plus the new video are equally welcome. There is a moody late night groove to the song, some refined melodic vibes and those "oh so" rock and roll vocals. If you like the song check out the previous features and dive right into this amazing album.


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Carmody - Summer Rain.

Background - A regular guest vocalist for Tom Misch since his debut EP back in 2014, South-London singer-songwriter Carmody has just returned with a second single from her forthcoming solo EP ‘Caching.

The track is a slow-burning tour de force, drawing on deep bass, electronic and R&B influences to explore the ephemeral and incendiary first stages of a relationship. Both haunting and sublimely danceable, ‘Summer Rain’ pairs Carmody’s trademark lyrical skill (“Freefalling through the clouds, you chase a fantasy / I can hear a song in every sigh / Unspoken melodies”)with one of her most powerful choruses to date: a harmony-soaked celebration of love in its purest form, where rain-soaked couples dance and ‘Move unheard / Weaving patterns of light into each day”.

Carmody began writing ‘Summer Rain’ at home in South London and (in stark contrast to the sun-drenched blissfulness of the song itself) completed it with Silverglade in the depths of a freezing cold Chicago winter, surrounded by 10 inches of snow.

About the track Carmody says: “I'm a big romantic when it comes to rain in the summer time. There's something about the heat, coupled with a fleeting downpour of rain, that I love. It's momentary and beautiful. ‘Summer Rain’ is about those ephemeral moments when you fall in love; when there is no doubt - just pure elation - lost in each other's minds and bodies.” TWITTER.

Carmody's soulful and intimate vocals are sublimely enticing on 'Summer Rain' a song that oozes class and refinement. The arrangement and production does this piece justice, as all elements shine through and the hooks dig deep.

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Caz Gardiner & The Badasonics - Edward and Jane - Audic Empire

Caz Gardiner & The Badasonics - Out Of Time.

Background - The Badasonics mixes soul and funk together with Jamaican riddims and horns with the soulful rock and reggae voice of Caz Gardiner to deliver a pulsating party of soul steady beats.

Caz has performed with the BandHouse Gigs, Newmyer Flyer productions and The Beat Hotel. She was the lead singer for The Ambitions, a 60's influenced soul/ rock band which in 2008 was nominated for a Wammie (Washington Area Music Association) in the best new band category; and the rocksteady / reggae band Caz and The Day Laborers. In 2010, she was nominated for a Wammie in the best traditional blues / RnB vocalist category for her work with Caz and The Commotions.

The Badasonics, consisting of former members of The Moon Invaders & The Caroloregians, were also known as the busiest backing band for Jamaican artists in Europe and have played with Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Ken Boothe, Alton Ellis, Dave & Ansel Collins, Rico Rodriguez, Doreen Shaffer, Pat Kelly, Derrick Harriott & many more.

Caz Gardiner & The Badasonics debut LP will be released this month. WEBSITE.

Whilst the featured song 'Out Of Time' might show off the bands more soulful and funky side, doing so with some high class style I would hasten to add, there is more to them than this. They can and do conjure up some tempting reggae sounds, and jazz things up gorgeously with horns. Overall the feeling is positive and upbeat, and their musical fusion is highly contagious. 

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Edward and Jane - More.

Background - "Americana has become a mainstream staple in music and for the most part, the sound has been watered down throughout the years by corporate America…Edward and Jane though, they’re cut from a different cloth," says Ghettoblaster of the Chattanooga, Tennessee-based folk-rock collective's new tune "More," which it calls an "emotional masterpiece." The song is featured on the band's new EP Too Early To Tell, set for release on September 28th. Edward and Jane will celebrate the album's release with show at The Camp House in Chattanooga on October 13th.

"More," which features the angelic vocals of band co-founder Emilie "Jane" Creutzinger, is a tribute to those who have shaped us into who we have become. "We are who we are because of the people who raised us--the care we received, or lack thereof in our upbringing" says co-founder Timothy "Edward" Carpenter. "However your childhood experience, you are who you are much to the credit of your mother and father. You clench tightly to their best qualities, and avoid their worst, but in my experience the apple never falls far from the tree. Everyone has parents. Everyone can understand this. 'More' is an attempt to show our deep gratitude for those who raised us into the people we are today, for better or worse."

On a mission to cultivate a communal environment at their shows where everyone belongs and feels like a necessary piece of the puzzle, Edward and Jane use their art to take listeners back to a simpler time—a time where music could steal you away from the worries of the world. With the help of Anderson, Indiana-based producer, Jonathan Class, Edward and Jane have found their voice and unique Americana sound. They have toured extensively for the last three years, landed multiple television placements on MTV and A&E, and have shared the stage with the likes of Mandolin Orange, Jon Foreman, Elenowen, Birdtalker, and Aaron Lee Tasjan.

The band’s desire to make true folk-rock music is heard in their honest lyricism and incredible family band instrumentation, all beautifully showcased on Too Early To Tell. The album, which distills influences from Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers-esque classic rock to soul-moving gospel choir harmonies, is a nostalgic journey to freedom that blends the bittersweet pain of departure with the flourishing beauty of independence. WEBSITE.

Gentle and melodic 'More' slowly builds with emotional intensity and feeling. The musical backdrop is sublime, understated at times when additional layers of instrumentation are added they resonate beautifully.

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Audic Empire - Turmoil.

Background - Austin, TX based Alternative Rock/Reggae Band Audic Empire has released the official music video for their single "Turmoil," the second single from the their upcoming LP, Indica Nights. Written by Ronnie Bowen and produced by James Wisner (Silverback Records), "Turmoil" drops September 10th

Audic Empire has been turning heads in the Austin, TX music scene with their psychedelic, reggae/rock and feel good tunes. They have a high intensity performance and an astonishing sound with the contrast of two singers Ronnie Bowen & James Tobias, their red hot solo guitarist Travis Brown, psychedelic keys from Carver Ripley and rock solid rhythm section Jess Leonard.

Audic Empire has played with numerous great artists and festivals. Audic’s first album Sativa Sunrise was released in 2015. They have 6 singles that have been released over the past 4 years, which are available on all online platforms. 

Currently the band has finished and about to release their 2nd full length album Indica Nights with producers James Wisner and Miles Brown. With the rapid growth of their reggae/rock sound, Audic Empire is on the rise with their journey to produce a unifying sound wave of love and music. TWITTER.

Audic Empire have something very special going on here. The bands mixture of alt rock and reggae is seamless and highly up skilled. 'Turmoil' demonstrates this with style and the vocals are in total alignment as the band traverse between genres. This is very impressive and totally engaging music.


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Lung - Velvet Flare - Johnny Payne - Value Void

Lung - Butcher.

Background - 'All the King’s Horses' marks a shift from Lung’s first album, Bottom of the Barrel. The content was largely influenced by the band’s experiences from their national tours. “We’re excited that it [the new album] is going to be out of our heads and into the world.” Wakefield explains, “The album reflects what we (Daisy, Rachelle, and me) have experienced as a band touring around this confusing and awesome country. It is a snapshot of what we have seen, lived-through, and what’s been shared with us. The record aims to take you on a journey of personal and shared struggles and goes to some pretty vulnerable places. I hope that people listening to the record get some sort of cathartic release by the end of it.”

Sonically the album has a dark, biting edge. Kate Wakefield (vocals, cello) and Daisy Caplan (drums) have developed a powerful, sinister sound created from total immersion into music culture and life on the road. Thematically, the record has a wide range, with songs directly confronting issues of consent such as “Brock” and “All the King’s Horses” in addition to more fantastical narratives of reality as in “Spiders” and a few pointed anti-love songs.  The art for Lung directly reflects these intense experiences. Their artist, Rachelle Caplan, interprets the music visually in real-time as songs are being written and consistently tours with the band.

Lung, which formed in April of 2016 and includes Daisy Caplan on drums, has played over 250 shows to date. Known for their live shows, they are looking forward to returning to the West Coast, hitting spots old and new. “I’m excited to play places we’ve never been before, to see every part of this country,” says Daisy. The two are not new to the road. Both have performed in multiple touring projects. Kate has been writing and performing solo since 2014. Daisy was a core member of the prolific rock band, Foxy Shazam and feminist punk band, Babe Rage.

When asked about what we can expect for the next record, Wakefield hinted at heavier thematic material. “This next record is going to bring something different. A lot has happened in the world since our first release (Bottom of the Barrel, Spring 2017) and this album reflects that intensity.” Tracks from All the King’s Horses show a maturation in the band’s songwriting and an evolution in content. There is a more demanding and provocative edge to the record that illustrates undeniable feelings of paranoia and unease with the onset of the Trump presidency. “We were in Texas during the election. Nobody could believe it. We were playing small towns and big cities alike. The feeling was intense; a new ‘uncomfortable normal’ began to take over,” said Wakefield on the experience. WEBSITE.

Taken from the duos brand new 'All The Kings Horses' album released this week we have 'Butcher'. Lung are a potent musical pairing, the instrumental choice adding natural individuality, and the vocals delivering plenty of attitude and emotion, this is passionate and feisty.


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Velvet Flare - My Femme Fatale.

Background - Following the release of their first album Worlds Apart in 2017, Velvet Flare announce the release of their second album Despair and Desire, which includes the latest single My Femme Fatale.

My Femme Fatale is inspired by classic 1940s/50s Film Noir. A seductive woman persuades her new lover to kill her husband for financial gain, but she ultimately betrays that lover. This dark theme is punctuated by humour with lyrics such as: “Got you what you wanted - Got his money and a room with a view - I lost my moral compass - When you asked if I could ‘just shoot him too’ - Shoot him too? Well, what else could I do?”

Despair and Desire includes the previously released single Ms Fox, which was reviewed by Beehive Candy: “.... ‘Ms Fox’ is another very impressive song. Mixing pop and indie rock vibes, the production is distinct and the gentle melody is full of hooks, in what is a top quality piece”. Ms Fox is the personification of Fox Glacier, NZ and the song is a lament for global warming.

Despair and Desire is primarily a collection of songs about relationships in various states of disintegration or buoyant aspiration. The album was recorded and engineered by Slade Gibson at Slade Gibson Audio, The Gap, Brisbane.

The release of their first album Worlds Apart in 2017 included the singles 6th of June, Animal (Arun Kendall in Backseatmafia: “Straight out of Brisbane and seemingly via the tenements of London comes Velvet Flare with Animal, a visceral, angry stab of glam rock that has all the hallmarks of an Antipodean Suede. Singer Paul English has a soaring voice, complete with eviscerating lyrics, that moves effortlessly into a falsetto…… a refreshing blast of unadorned indie guitar music with all the necessary posturing and sneer any good rock song should have”.) and Ice Age (which was No. 22 in Tomatrax Top 100 Songs of 2017). These singles and the album track The Brightest Light have all had airplay in Australia, England and Europe, and the USA. FACEBOOK.

Our third musical share for Velvet Flare comes in the form of their latest single 'My Femme Fatale'. The duel vocals really work well on this song, at times almost duelling rather than harmonising, doing so above a vibrant rocking backdrop.

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Johnny Payne - Never Stop Learning To Love.

Background - I began writing Never Stop Learning To Love on an escalator in a mall in Spain. The mall had about ten floors and by the time I got to the top I had a verse and a chorus. All that was at the top was a restaurant so I went back down.

The song is a reminder to myself to always practice tolerance and acceptance amidst chaos, the way children do. It’s about as psychedelic as I get in my writing. Not the Jimi Hendrix, Sgt Pepper version of Psychedelia, but the Brian Wilson, Disney version.

I always subscribed more to that: The idea that psychedelia isn’t entirely about drugs, but rather about a return to childlike innocence through purity of mind and a reverence for the natural world. For this reason, we felt it appropriate to shoot the video on the same beach where I spent so much time as a kid, just running around with a dog. It seemed to say everything about the song.

I recorded my upcoming solo EP with Tennis at their home studio in Denver and recruited Beach House drummer James Barone for the studio sessions. TWITTER.

Our second song from Johnny Payne is the gorgeous 'Never Stop Learning To Love'. Understated psychedelic vibes pour out, with some timeless sixties charm and fabulous hooks, this is instant replay material, and some.


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Value Void - Teen For Him.

Background - London trio Value Void share the third single, "Teen For Him", from their debut album Sentimental, due out on 26 October via Tough Love, released on limited edition green vinyl, CD and download. Last week the band played their first ever BBC6 Music session for Tom Ravenscroft. They will play an album launch show at The Stag's Head in London on 1 November.

Marta Zabala from the band explains more about the "'Teen for Him' was written in Buenos Aires ages ago, probably 2015 whilst Paz and I were working as assistants in a Social Gaming Company. It's a childish song about those moments when someone is having a personal crisis and are overcome by some weird infatuation, where the object of their desire has nothing to do with them. Like filling a gap."

This follows the singles "Babeland" and "Back In The Day." The album is instantly affecting, with an ease and clarity that suits the elegance of the lyrics: coded love songs and cool reflections on life which are all the more vulnerable and touching sung in Paz Maddio's lilting, ultrachromatic voice - a ceramic-sharp diagonal transatlantic on a pure open tone, with subtle waves of vibrato at its top end. It's a particular heart breaker on tracks such as “Babeland” and “Dead Ladies Lament”. BANDCAMP.

Having already featured the first two singles from Value Void 'Teen For Him' makes it three and does so with class. The bands individual and delectable sound is all apparent, the vocals slipping into pure London accent at times is charming, the album 'Sentimental' is now a must hear asap!

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The Mutineers - Lyla Foy - Mousewater

The Mutineers - Couldn't Get Over You.

Background - Ahead of releasing their new five-track 'Threshold' EP and launching a busy 2018 national tour schedule, The Mutineers present the first single from this EP. 'Couldn't Get Over You',  a pleasantly wistful offering guided by a longing feeling and lulling melodic line.

A bit earlier, they unveiled the new video for 'Drug For That', filmed and directed by California-based photographer and visual artist Clovis IV.  The track, previously released on 'Live At B-Side', will be offered as a bonus track on a special Bandcamp edition of the EP.

Based in Portland, Oregon, The Mutineers are a rock n roll husband-wife duo with country leanings and punk rock tendencies. With Brian Mathusek on guitar and Merry Young on drums, the couple share vocal duties. Sounding like a cross between Johnny and June with John Doe and Exene, and a bit of Nick Cave and PJ Harvey, their sound esthetic is influenced by such artists as Bruce Springsteen, X, Nick Cave, Loretta Lynn, and Elvis Presley.

“This was written specifically for Merry’s voice. I wrote the first draft of lyrics and she sculpted it to fit her style. Her world-weary delivery is the perfect backdrop to the story. The song contemplates the dual feelings of helplessness and power inside a co-dependent relationship,” says Brian Mathusek.

“The singer is struggling with self-confidence and self-consciousness. She can not decide if she has been too open or not open enough. I think everyone has someone in their life that they can’t stand, but also can’t live without, whether it’s a lover or a family member or a friend. Knowing when to cut someone off is very difficult. By the end of our song, the narrator has given up and given in to this cycle of love and hate, another lost soul.” WEBSITE, BANDCAMP.

'Couldn't Get Over You' is just one dimension of the 'Threshold' E.P. where The Mutineers mix reflective and melodic material such as the featured track, along with more gritty rock and roll. There is an engaging core sound that permeates throughout the material, one that is personal, natural and always desirable. 

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Lyla Foy - Try My Heart.

Background - London singer-songwriter Lyla Foy has just shared a new taster of her forthcoming second album Bigger Brighter, with the unexpectedly sanguine Try My Heart. Another example of Lyla laying her feelings bare, the single provides a further glimpse into the emotional journey she experienced throughout the process of writing the album. Following a premiere on Wonderland, you can listen and watch another one of her brilliant accompanying animated videos here. Lyla explains more about the song below:

With this song I’m trying to be frank about cyclical swings in temperament and I wanted to set all that talk about feelings to a driving, Krautrock-esque beat. It’s made all the more bizarre with Gina Tratt’s animated video which makes me question my sanity.

Bigger Brighter will be released on September 14th 2018, and includes previously released, BBC 6Music supported single Far Behind You featuring Jonathan Donahue of Mercury Rev, the thought-provoking No God and the beautifully enchanting Suckermoon. Also featuring on the album is John Paul White of Civil Wars for the track Bring Flowers. The record was mixed by Patrick Wimberly (Chairlift/MGMT/Solange).

In Lyla's words... From fantasy to bedlam and religion to feminism, Bigger Brighter covers some ground. With this record, one of the main things I recognise is that I’ve been more explicit with my lyrics and I feel slightly uncomfortable revealing this insight into my character.

Bigger Brighter was made with my longtime collaborator and boyfriend at the time, Oli Deakin (songwriter and producer, aka Lowpines). While I was conceiving the words and melodies, he was instrumental in the musical vision and the whole process, alongside me. Ever since we started this five years ago, it was always the two of us at its core: him and me. The production and the sound we realised could not have come about any other way. WEBSITE.

'Try My Heart' follows on from our June feature for Lyla Foy where we shared 'Far Behind You'. A softer and flowing song, it's Lyla's elegant vocals that add the melodic hooks, whilst the rhythmic backdrop adds the pace in a uncomplicated and complimentary manner.


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Mousewater - Panic Stations.

Backdrop - Mousewateris an independent singer songwriter based in Melbourne, Australia. His musical palette interlaces indie rock influences with melodic tone and colour. Panic Stations, the debut single and brings to light the loss of control that the pressures of everyday living  can manifest as anxiety for many.

“I was riding to work on my scooter one morning, it’s about an hour commute, the ride always gives me time to think and sometimes song melodies pop into my head. Wearing a helmet, nobody can hear me, so I play with the melody and lyric. When I get to work I would find some secluded spot to sing the idea onto my phone before it disappeared forever. This was the genesis for a number of the songs on the album, including Panic Stations” - Mousewater.

The track was written and recorded at Mousewater's home studio in Melbourne. All audio engineering, instrumentation and performance were also completed by Mousewater. Mousewater cut his teeth in indie rock bands touring the east coast of Australia. Years of touring had taken its toll physically and mentally and he was forced into an extended hiatus from performing and writing. Without even so much as picking up his favourite guitar for years, the drive gone, the passion for music dissolving, willingly readying himself for the post-music abyss joining so many other kindred spirits.

The year is 2016 and something was changing, inside him, some fire had been rekindled, a spark ignited and now with fuel being pumped into the empty vacuum left by an unfulfilled journey. He began to write songs again, he began to sing again, but he had some ground to make up. Songs came together quickly, the extended break had given him fresh perspectives on life and personal narratives of subjects close to his heart. Mousewater spent the next two years refining the songs he was writing. Wanting, no needing to record them, learning new processes of recording independently was inevitable. He would take his time to ensure the transition from inspiration to reality was transparent. Now complete this release is a reflective and poignant statement on the World we live in, moments that matter and the frailty of the human condition.

'Panic Stations' is a majestic and sumptuous indie song that has so much going for it. A sweeping arrangement that captivates the heart, plenty of melodic hooks and lush vocals, Mousewater has clearly put a lot into this song, and the result is that we get a whole lot more out of it.

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The Montreals - The Sea Birds

The Montreals - Y2K.

Background - The Montreals’ incorporate sleazy R&B hooks, So-Cal rock, and a dash of disco blended into your favourite smoothie. Their stand-alone singles deadheads and Sardines were positively received nationally and internationally, cartwheeling the line between polished and raucous, with the former attracting multiple radio plays on Triple J (Australia) and KCRW (United States). Y2K, the latest track from The Montreals, is now available.

Collectively, their music has clocked over 800,000 streams on Spotify and been consistently added on coveted international playlists including Fresh Finds and Indie Arrivals. The new single, Y2K marks an exciting shift in direction which will turn heads and break beds :)

Y2K combines bedroom pop with sleazy R&B hooks, and a dash of jazz hands. “It contains a bunch of weird samples (cc: lazers) - it was a G time weaving lots of subtle nick nacks in the track.” Y2K was recorded in a humble home studio in Thebarton, SA. It incorporates shitty GarageBand synthesisers and direct-input guitars with zippy, polished production. It was mixed by Steve Schram (San Cisco, Paul Kelly) & mastered by Studio 301’s Steve Smart (Vance Joy, British India) and we think it is damn wild.

Angus: “This one time at a festival, we asked the sound engineer if we could do a kazoo-based cover of Sandstorm, he said no. We said Y2K (Yes 2 Kazoo)”. Stefan: “Shower thought - what if we all died tomorrow? Y2K is about wasting all ya time when ain’t got much.”

The Montreals’ eclectic style has garnered sold-out support slots with internationally successful acts across a variety of genres, including Duke Dumont, Alpine, North East Party House and Last Dinosaurs. As well as performing at Oh Yes Festival to over 5,000 patrons alongside Pnau, and SAFIA to name a few. Their breadth of audience has allowed the band to develop a devout fanbase which traverses traditional music demographics, nationally and internationally.  FACEBOOK.

We have featured The Montreals a couple of times in the past being impressed by their fresh indie music. 'Y2K' is delightfully quirky as the band venture into new musical territory, mixing their notable bedroom pop sound with more funky and jazzy vibes, doing so in a highly contagious manner.

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The Sea Birds - The Coastline

Background - The Sea Birds second single from their debut album …blue or grey tells the intimate story of two lovers and a relationship fraying at the edges.

The Coastline’s rhythmic energy drives you to a familiar holiday destination. As the tension builds, the lovers’ emotional baggage unfolds. The chorus brings relief like rain on a stifling humid day. You’re left hopeful and contemplative. Does the couple work out their differences or call it quits after longing for the summer break?

The Coastline is The Sea Birds’ first vinyl release. The B-side features new tune Am I Over It Now available exclusively with the single. The two songs showcase the band’s indie pop rock sound, stunning vocal harmonies and a glimpse into the evolving work of this Melbourne five-piece.

Featuring a new band line up including dual lead vocalists Lara Wentworth and Loic Mamet, lead guitarist Michael Amarant and rhythm section, James W. du Plessis on drums together with Paul McAleer on bass.

The Sea Birds launch The Coastline at The Grace Darling Hotel with headline performance by Dave Arden and the Kokamara Band, and guest DJ Ritchie 1250 from PBS 106.7FM. The Coastline was produced by David McCluney and The Sea Birds, recorded at Atlantis Sound. Am I Over It Now wasproduced by David Warner and The Sea Birds, recorded at Studio One.Be. WEBSITE.

'The Coastline' is our second song feature for The Sea Birds (the last was in November 2017). This time around there is something of a rhythmic indie rock feel, with the vocals and harmonies carrying more of the melody, it's catchy and makes for a fine single from the bands admirable debut album.

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Cosmic Strip - La Lusid - Mark Sultan

Cosmic Strip - Sugar Rush.

Background - Dreamy shoegazers Cosmic Strip share their latest irresistible dose of psychedelia in new single Sugar Rush, taken from the band’s debut EP Heavenly out now.

Marshalled by supremely talented frontwoman Camella Agabalyan, the London outfit have already attracted a ton of praise with widespread acclaim throughout the online community and encouraging festival displays at the likes of The Great Escape, Citadel and Wilderness.

“I wanted to write a song about the feeling of addiction whether it’s sugar, love, a drug, whatever your vice is”, Camella stated. “I personally really connect to dreamy, druggy songs like Air, My Bloody Valentine, Beach Fossils, Slowdive, The Jesus & The Mary Chain etc so I wanted to inspire myself from that feeling but also show the darker side of addiction that you might not always get from those types of songs”. TWITTER.

Opening layer by layer with some gorgeous and refined guitar work 'Sugar Rush' builds into a dreamy and powerful rocker, where the vocals softly whisper and charm, adding even more atmosphere.

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La Lusid - Gran Canaria.

Background - La Lusid, who released a string of glittering singles in 2017, is now starting to approach a long- awaited debut album. The latest release, ”Empty Bones" and "Safe & Sound" quickly became a favorite of the Swedish national radiostation P3 and music blogs around the world. They also made top spot on Spotify Viral and the Student Radio in Sweden.

Warm, melancholic and dynamic, it’s impossible not to get drawn into their dreamy soundscape. With a sound that is reminiscent of what we love most about 60’s and 70’s analogue music, La Lusid presents themselves with high quality songwriting and sublime vocal arrangements.

They move seamlessly between genres and languages, the debut album contains songs in both Swedish and English and is as much introvert as extrovert. The debut album is recorded, mixed and produced by the band themselves, in their studio that they call ” The Ghost House”. With thoughtful, intelligent pop and clever arrangements, La Lusid has made it into the hearts of many.

"Gran Canaria" is the final single before their self-titled debut album drops on the 28th of September. FACEBOOK.

We have already featured 'Empty Bones' and 'Safe & Sound' this year and 'Gran Canaria' is yet another fabulous song from the very talented La Lusid. Once again the melodic hooks, timeless pop sound and beautiful musical presentation make this band totally standout from the crowd.

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Mark Sultan - Coffin Nails.

Background -  “Coffin Nails”, is taken from forthcoming record ‘Let Me Out’ due out October 12th on Modern Sky USA / Dirty Water Records. “Coffin Nails” features Sultan’s signature soulful vocals alongside winding harmonica and a toe-tapping guitar line, with full band instrumentation by Sultan himself. Crafted and produced in his own Imperfection Studios deep in the forests of Berlin, ‘Let Me Out’ is a return to form by the rock and roll legend whose adventurous decades-long career in music has never sounded more cohesive.

Cosigned by celebrated labels In The Red, Last Gang, Crypt, Fat Possum, Dirtnap, Goner, Sub Pop, Vice, Bomp!, Norton, Sympathy For The Record Industry, and Wick (Daptone Records), Mark Sultan has compiled an impressive discography of collaborations, side projects and solo efforts taking classic garage rock sounds and contorting them in experimental and twisted new ways.

Deep in the forest outside of Berlin, one of rock ’n’ roll’s most under the radar yet omnipresent figures is putting the finishing touches on his latest solo record, but in fact traces of Mark Sultan can be found around the world. Cosigned by celebrated labels In The Red, Last Gang, Crypt, Fat Possum, Dirtnap, Goner, Sub Pop, Vice, Bomp!, Norton, Sympathy For The Record Industry, and Wick (Daptone Records), you’re bound to have come across something with Sultan’s name on it, where over the course of multiple decades he’s compiled an insane discography built from the strength of multiple albums, side projects and top-shelf solo efforts, always with a strong deposition towards taking classic garage-rock sounds and contorting them in experimental and twisted new ways.

For this most recent effort, written, recorded and produced in his own Personal Imperfection studio in Germany, Sultan once again ups the ante, working to implement a full band and fully fleshed out instrumentation. Still encompassing the ethos of individuality and charisma that has lent him a sound that has transcended any era by which you might try to nail him down, it may be his most cohesive statement yet. FACEBOOK.

Described as 60's Garage Wop (complete with hashtag) 'Coffin ''Nails' actually fits that description superbly. Mark Sultan vocals are just right for this kind of music, his commitment to creativity that revolves around old school garage rock, is more than worthy. He is another talented artist that gives credence to the notion that the best rock and roll is always found under the radar.

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Grizzly Coast - FRITZ

Grizzly Coast - Zuzu's Petals.

Background from Grizzly Coast - My background as a poet, mixed with my lifelong affinity for playing music, lead me to blending the two mediums on my debut album Gold Lined Path. 

My new single, “Zuzu’s Petals,” showcases my expansion into a full-band sound, and my commitment to free-falling even deeper into my lyrics.

“Zuzu’s Petals” is about the feeling of self-assurance – something that struck me on a refreshing upswing that I rode after going through a breakup. Finding simple luxuries in both solitude and community, and really focusing on music were what brought me back home to myself. With the song’s upbeat tempo and lyrics, I aimed to evoke the excitement that you feel when you’re inspired by the boundless possibilities that exist in your future.

This video attempts to capture the growth and joy that solitude can bring, and frames it in a single summer’s day, FACEBOOK.

Grizzly Coast's vocals are quite beguiling as well as beautifully melodic. With 'Zuzu's Petals' we also have intelligent lyrics, a simple and attractive musical backdrop, that when combined together give us a fresh and uplifting song.


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FRITZ - Summer Holiday.

Background - FRITZ takes on teenage heartbreak with the release of dreamy new single 'Summer Holiday' and the announcement of a debut headline tour and appearances at Brisbane's BIGSOUND.

Drenched in 90s VHS hues, the video features FRITZ (Tilly Murphy) and her band mates as indifferent members of the living dead in idyllic, (and normally) happy locations around Newcastle. Directed by FRITZ and Lazy Bones (Bronte Godden), the sinister visual undertones are inspired by FRITZ's admiration for The Cure's knack for seamlessly combining dark and poppy moods.

Lyrically, 'Summer Holiday' touches on incredibly relatable teenage emotions. "it's about losing friends, a boyfriend, and inner confidence, consecutively," says FRITZ. "It’s very over dramatic and naive though, considering I’m only 18 and basically singing about how being dumped by my first boyfriend was the worst thing that has ever happened to me, when really it wasn’t. 'Summer Holiday' is my favourite song I’ve written, or maybe just my favourite riff.”

'Summer Holiday' follows the huge success of FRITZ's 'Biggest Fool In The World', the hilarious video for which premiered on triple j Unearthed. Piquing the attention of taste-makers nationwide it gained multiple spins on triple j and was added to Spotify's Fresh Finds and Chords and Cardigans playlists in its first week.

2018 is clearly heating up for this bubbly dream-pop newcomer whose secret weapon is A+ on-stage banter and an infectious laugh. Following a huge formative live year supporting the likes of Fazerdaze, WAAX, Jess Locke, Cub Sport, Middle Kids, RAAVE TAPES, The Belligerents, Ruby Fields and FRITZ is finally taking her own show on the road.  Following two BIGSOUND showcase parties and a spot on the sold out Yours & Owls festival lineup, the Newcastle native launches her first ever run of headline shows this October at intimate venues across Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Wollongong. With so many shows up and down the Coast, there's no excuse for skipping that 'Summer Holiday' this year.

A bright dream pop song with more than a hint of slick indie rock 'Summer Holiday' is as infectious as it is charming. The video images bring out the songs retro vibe, one that gives this track even more character, concert goers down under have yet another sparkling band to enjoy in the coming months.


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Dead Naked Hippies - Hero Fisher - Linda Em

Dead Naked Hippies - Rare.

Background - With an angular opening riff that batters its way into your head and stays rattling around in there all day, Rare is the ferocious new offering from Leeds art-rock trio Dead Naked Hippies. Don't be fooled by the initial ferocity, Rare serves to empower others and front woman Lucy Jowett is not holding back:

“It is a song about self love. I think we're quick to judge the term & deem it laughable or irrelevant in fear of being arrogant, or weird. But if you take a hard look at the society we live in, it's clear to see why so many people struggle to feel content in their own minds and their own bodies. I've always struggled with myself and it sickens me to think that so many other people feel the same. It needs to change.”

Expanding more on the band’s mission, and where latest release Rare fits in – Lucy says: “We're used by advertising companies, so they can make money out of our discontentment. Bombarded with images of fake realities, only to make us feel like ours isn't enough. We're made to feel like our creativity and passion will never be as important as serving a functional purpose in society. It's dull, boring and I'm ..king mad about it. Most importantly, I want people to know that they're not alone.”

By creating a vehicle, alongside band mates Joe Clarke (guitar) and Jacob Marston (drums), through which Lucy can express and tackle her own internal issues, Dead Naked Hippies offer a space for others to do the same. Rare is a cathartic rallying call in the form of pounding drums, guttural guitars and righteous vocals. TWITTER.

Following on from the song 'Guillotine' which was our first taste of Dead Naked Hippies back in June we now have the chunky and somewhat rambunctious follow up track 'Rare'. A loud alt rocker that takes no prisoners, it's hard to ignore and easy to embrace.

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Hero Fisher - If I Die and Nothing Happens - (Warning - Flash Video).

Background - With it’s heavy dub bass and raw distorted vocals, the sound of ‘If I Die And Nothing Happens’ belies Hero’s playful lyricism. The dark spectral soundscape she builds evokes a deep volcanic winter as her ambient instrumentation facilitates the telling of a fundamentally human story. Hero’s lyrical quest for light also serves as an affirmation of life, and a recognition of the beauty around us. Moreover, it showcases Hero’s unique dynamism as a songwriter.

There are light moments within the dark, as in her canny layered vocals and the sublime motorik outro. The glacial production style shines with the same vitality that Hero has carried through all her work. Ultimately, ’If I Die And Nothing Happens’ is a heady reminder of the heights of alternative music and its limitless potential to tell new stories and explore new ideas. Hero’s influences are vast, but she distils them into a sound that feels both effortless and rare.

British-born, French-raised and London-based, Hero Fisher (yes, that’s her real name) is returning to release her sophomore LP Glue Moon. Hero’s career has so far seen her collaborate with Alison Mosshart and Boy George in the Mark Ronson-scored ballet Carbon Life, open for The Rolling Stones and Neil Young at Hyde Park, and get shortlisted for the 2014 Glastonbury Emerging Talent Prize. In 2015 she released her debut album, the critically-appraised Delivery which won her fans in The Horrors and Blur.

By turns a blistering rock and roller in the vein of Patti Smith and PJ Harvey, and an experimental folk storyteller à la Jeff Buckley, Hero Fisher resists easy generic categorisation with her protean and cinematic musical storytelling. Able to expertly strike a variety of different narrative poses, she is at once the spurned lover and the fired-up rabble rouser, predator and prey. With Glue Moon previous singles ‘Sylvie’, ‘Push The Boat Out’, ‘I Let Love’ and ‘Lonely’ Hero’s lyrical imagination proved unique and bountiful. ‘If I Die And Nothing Happens’ takes her sound into unchartered territory. It’s a testament to her resplendent artistry, and a display of her limitless potential to find new sonic avenues. WEBSITE. 

'If I Die and Nothing Happens' is our fourth feature for Hero Fisher who continues to impress with her imaginative and intriguing music. There are some clever melodic hooks that contrast well with the dub bass and ambient backdrop, and Hero Fisher's vocals once again are just so engaging, that it leaves me simply wanting to hear more.


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Linda Em - Two Hands.

Background - London-based Irish-born songstress Linda Em presents her new single 'Two Hands' ahead of her ‘London Irish’ EP, to be released on September 21 via Talking Elephant Records. This new single comes on the trail of her blazing ‘Wild Fire’, a sultry earworm of an EP teaser.

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). 

‘Two Hands’ is about seeking a safe, quiet space in which to gather strength when the trials of your everyday life feel overwhelming. Linda Em co-wrote this song with Ian Montague.

“There was a particular point in my life where I felt very alone just been kicked out of college and my mum and brother were both in hospital. I was the main caregiver. I went into the church at the end of the road and sat asking for something (I didn’t know what). You light a candle and expect god to be at the end of the bed that very night. I used to search for churches in-between the madness” is me reflecting on those moments. When we cannot fix something, we always try to go to a higher place for help and as a young person whose family was not “normal”, I looked for that more often,” says Linda Em.

“As we grow and work on self, we realise that the higher powers we are seeking are not some greater godlike figure but something within ourselves, even if it’s just simple acceptance. That’s why the end of the song refers to that “bitter sweet surrender” of letting go and letting go of ego “humiliate me slowly” of being willingly open to vulnerability and letting go of pride. And also of being reborn spiritually “open me unholy again and again“, each able to become our own superhero.” WEBSITE.

We featured 'Wild Fire' back in the middle of July and the second single from the 'London Irish' E.P. due later this month is 'Two Hands'. It's another gorgeous modern folk song where Linda Em's vocals are so full of emotion and personal feeling. The musical arrangement is sublime giving even more passion to this truly beautiful song.

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