Showing posts with label BBC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label BBC. Show all posts

Wednesday, 17 April 2013

BAND OF BADGERS PRESENTS...MIDWEEK MUSIC MIX #3

I say it again and again but I will say it again and again and then again some more! Soooooooooooo much music!! I am drowning in it but you know what? I like this kind of drowning. I want more of the drowning please, so long may it continue to pour in by the ocean load. Do keep it coming folks.

I recently had a load of new bands start following me on Soundcloud. This is in addition to the many who have done and continue to do so on Twitter. I sincerely wish I could get through you all in better time but there's just too much. Seriously, when I started doing this more so a year ago I thought I was drowning in it then but now it is a phenomenal amount. A staggering amount! There is so much fantastic music out there in the world. Away from the humdrum rubbish from repetitive commercial or public radio stations. So much unsigned stuff that is just completely insane that it isn't signed. Still, I'd say a lot of those are in a better position for themselves than if they were snapped up by some huge record label and then molded into something they are not. It happens and will continue to happen so long as the soulless executives (most who know little about quality music) only see £'s (or $ or whatever your currency) in the acts. With all these unsigned independent bands and artists, I understand there's not a huge amount I can do to assist but for every one music fan who stumbles upon this humble little music blog to see what it's all about, all the acts I feature may gain one more fan. One more person to add to their free download figures, or their YouTube viewing figures. Or even indeed one more person to buy some of the quality music on offer at such reasonable and affordable prices.

I am going through as much as I can given my limited time so hopefully I'll get through most, if not all of it. Eventually. It may take a while so 'bear with'. I'm still waiting for that sponsor to give me a job doing this full time. I won't hold my breath or else I'll be finished quite quickly and won't be able to do even this. Jesse Korby of US rock band Wings of Apollo wrote a perfect piece about making music and the current state of the music industry. You should give it a read >>here<<. Make sure you check out their tunes as well. I will be playing two tracks from their debut album on podcast #14. I had to settle with two and it took me long enough to get it down to just those. HELL YEAH!!!!
Anywho, with my regular famous ramble out of the way let's crack on and actually get some of this fantastic music shared. That is, after all, what it is all about! Like I say, there is so much music and every day more and more gets added to the list. I should be (and am) working on two other posts at the moment I write this. Multitasking, oh yes. I honestly could do with staff but I can't even afford to pay myself. Right! On with the MUSIC.


INTRODUCING...WELCOME PARIAH
Fear not folks! Indie Britpop is NOT dead. Not while we have the likes of Welcome Pariah releasing music. This is an alternative rock band steeped in that early to mid 90's Brit pop sound that I think was responsible for creating this genre that isn't a genre 'indie'. At the time when asked what kind of music they were into I recall many people jumping on the Oasis and Blur bandwagon (to name just two of the biggest at the time) and claiming that it was 'indie music' they were into. Indie meaning this kind of alternative rock and pop which later gathered under the umbrella term Britpop. 

Welcome Pariah are not pop I wouldn't say but they do have everything that goes with sounding like this alternative rock and pop a la Britpop. They are better, in fact. Why? Just listen. The guitar work on Liberty Pill for a start. Not just that, though, it's the whole package. How flawlessly their sound comes together and the results to our ears. It's easy to see why they have already supported bands and musicians like Steve Cradock (Ocean Colour Scene/Paul Weller), The Moons, Mark Morris (The Bluetones), Chris Helme (The Seahorses) and The Dexters.


Londoners and all those music fans visiting at the time need to pencil (or type - does anyone still use pencils these days?) in Friday 26th April because the band are playing the most prestigious rock and roll club night This Feeling at The Macbeth in Shoreditch. This will be the gig to launch their new single Neither Here Nor There, which you can listen to above. Smashing isn't it?! Trounces on and blows out the water all the humdrum, mundane rubbish that is technically 'popular' because you're all told it is so.


After hearing just these two tunes so far I count myself a MASSIVE fan. I feel genuinely rather excited about what is to come from them. Based on the strength of Neither Here Nor There alone, it's understandable the band are gathering so much interest across the board. They have a number of top gigs and established festival slots (see dates below) lined up over the coming months. Not only this but they were recently interviewed and featured in The Huffington Post (read that >>here<<). Reading this gives you a true personal feel about them and it's a good one. They talk of the download culture that erupted at the time the likes of Arctic Monkeys and Kasabian broke out on to the scene, claiming they were the last bands who were snapped up by major labels. Similar to Adrian Banks' (The Scholars) comments about the industry. There are so many unsigned indie bands and musicians out their who clearly have a universe-worth of talent to display, yet they cannot get picked up due to the risk factor. And the money factor of course. Also, something humbling about Welcome Pariah is how if they were to be offered any deal, it can only be on their own terms. This is important because true fans will want the band as they are and as they are meant to be. Not ending up like puppets on a string putting out soulless records after their first few big 'real' albums. From what I've learned about them so far I doubt that would ever happen to these guys. They are indie to their core with a sound that is going to propel them on to the music scene in a huge way over the next year or so. The industry has been damaged, yes but with all the great offerings about at the moment, bands like Welcome Pariah are proving there's still so much to give. Indeed, I believe it is bands like this who will be responsible for repairing the damage done to the music industry.

They are currently working on new material to showcase at the live gigs and will be getting their heads down in the studio to record more tracks for a longer release. Bring it on, I say. I need more tunes from this band please and soon. 

UPCOMING GIGS 2013:
25th April - RMA Tavern, Portsmouth
26th April - This Feeling Club Night, The Macbeth, London
27th April - The Essex Arms, Brentwood
10th May - This Feeling Club Night, Cellar, Southampton
11th May - Pulse Festival, Sunnyfields Farm, Hampshire
17th May - Lennons, Supporting Catfish and the Bottlemen, Southampton
24th May - Coburgs, Ryde, Isle of Wight
25th May - The Tap, Sandown, Isle of Wight
8th June - The Adam & Eve, Scooterists For Heroes, Birmingham
14/15th June - March of the Mods Festival, Santa Pod Raceway, Wellingborough
21st June - The Fiddlers Elbow, Cool Britannia, Camden, London
29th June - The Good Ship, Kilburn, London
19/20/21st July - Tonefest, Dorset
26th July - Gabefest 5, Hampshire
2nd August - Frolic Fest, Kent


GOODBYE STEREO ARE MAKING WAVES
This is one of those just added to my ever-growing list. Like literally just added the very evening I began writing up this post. Thanks to someone on Facebook posting the video. Goodbye Stereo are an alternative rock band who will be releasing their debut album Island, on 24th May. Have a watch of the video for this single Waves which is also available as a FREE download at the band's Soundcloud page >>here<<.




ON THE ROAD WITH SEAN TAYLOR
I fully intended to share more from this amazing singer-songwriter long before now but you know how it is. This is another video I came across a tweet for literally as I was gearing to write this post. I have to do this though or else it could be ages before I get back around to it. As I hadn't featured Sean Taylor in far too long, here it is. You can subscribe to his YouTube channel for more and to keep updated on any new videos that go up. The Road is stunning! It was recorded in London last October and features the talented percussionist James Taylor.


As I mentioned when featuring Sean last time round, I'm fortunate to have seen him play live already. That's the beauty of quality independent festivals and you don't get more independent than the medium-sized Beautiful Days. Tickets for this year are booked and paid for. There was no way I was missing out like I had to last year. There will be more on Beautiful Days in due course as Wood Festival is long before that so on with that feature first. Sean has a number of live dates up on his website so get checking those out and get yourself along if he's playing near you. As well as some April dates including a Bob Harris BBC Radio 2 session on 21st (what a performance that promises to be), he is embarking upon a UK tour in May. In fact, he is kindly stopping by The Castle in Wellingborough (a mere 25 minutes away) so I've just bagged me some tickets to that. Expect a write up shortly after. http://www.seantaylorsongs.com/

In the meantime grab yourself his latest album, Love Against Death, a sampler for which is below:



CURIOSITY KILLED...LETS GO SAFARI
That headline/title says it all really. This is the debut EP from Dorset-based indie-pop group Let's Go Safari. What we have here is a wonderful amalgamation of all that's great about indie pop music. These guys add to what I've shared before in what REAL pop music should be and is about. None of that rubbish played on endless repeat on some radio stations. You know the sort I mean, just nonsensical noise for the most part. Curiosity Killed from Let's Go Safari offers up well constructed pop beats. Tunes that will get inside your head the way pop should, but ones that have substance to them. A dash of alternative rock sounds thrown into the mix make them something much more than general pop. This is fun music and after such a terribly long winter, they make the sun shine even if it isn't out to greet us with its presence. The EP is released on 28th April on Red Dragon Records. http://www.letsgosafari.co.uk/



WILL ROGERS BREAKS HIS BOAT
I get so busy finding new music from everywhere around the globe it is true I have neglected Northampton a little (okay, a lot). This is not in any way intentional of course. Just the sheer amount of it I have sent or that comes my way, it gets impossible to focus on any particular geographical area. In the past I have made a point of supporting the Midlands local talent, particularly Birmingham as that is where my roots are. That is where I am from (minus the dodgy accent I must add - not that there's anything wrong with it - accents are fun).




More recently I've been setting things right by looking into more music from the Northampton area. Thanks first to Lew Bear who I shared a few posts back, and now Will Rogers. Will is a self-taught singer-songwriter, well-known on the local open mic nights circuit for his clever lyrics, guitar rhythms and catchy choruses. He recorded this debut EP, Breaking Boat, last September and you NEED to go buy it from iTunes >>here<<. Just check out the tunes for yourselves and then get clicking the links. Click, click, click and own some top music for just £2.49.

 

It took me long enough to get on to Northampton music but it is me who has been missing out on this. Such local talent needs supporting that's for sure. Expect more from Will on the blog in due course. It goes without saying I have little excuse to miss gigs given they are literally on my doorstep and I''m really looking forward to seeing him live.


What's great about Will is how he brings a host of different styles to the table. He goes from the emotive and sublime of title track Breaking Boat and Forever Dreaming (already instant favourites of mine) to the faster, busier More and Unplanned. He's now added a loop pedal enabling him to build up his live show offerings. The excellent Cracked, above, demonstrates what we can expect from this. https://www.facebook.com/willrogersofficial

BEL X1 GET READY FOR THE CHOP CHOP
Now, I reckon I know a fair bit of music. That's handy, you may think considering I write this here musical blog. And yet I may very well know a fair bit of music spanning a number of genres, but my knowledge is the smallest tip of  the biggest iceberg. How can I have not come across Bell X1 before now I ask myself? Thankfully, I don't answer myself. That would be the time to worry. This 'find', if I can call it thus, comes courtesy of my wonderful contacts at Prescription PR (this time with thanks to James, but I must also give a shout out to Jay again who sent me The Webb Sisters EP, featured below - not forgetting Ellie too who is always sending me some awesome music, most recently Dave McPerson, who will be featuring in a future post). 


When you discover a band has toured the US 11 times, the reflex thought is something along the lines of, 'Wow, 11 years and they've been going back again and again'. But oh no. Bell X1's tour bus must have had several new engines fitted, a new exhaust for each tour and who knows how many tyres. Those 11 times they have achieved in just 4 years! That doesn't even take into account the other locations they've played. Madness! It's like a walk in the park for this Irish band and their alternative ambient sound. I'll be making a point of getting acquainted with previous works (Chop Chop will be their 6th studio album) but these first two songs from this latest record (due out at the end of June) have bowled me over, to say the least. They are angelic, sublime and sensational all rolled into one. Chop Chop has been produced by The National's long time producer Peter Katis and the entire album is a wonderful experiment using textures and minimalism. Starlings Over Brighton Pier! WOW! There's a way to open an album and then there is this stunning song. The build up. The melody. Those lyrics and vocals. It is so gentle but not. Makes no sense I know but listen to it and it's like all the sense in the world is made clear in that moment. This is music at its most beautiful. Likewise, Careful What You Wish For takes aural beauty even further. The same stripped back elements are used but in such a fundamental way there is a profundity inherent in the finished tune.


The video for Starlings moved me quite deeply too. The music fits the flight of the mesmerizing murmuration of starlings so perfectly I'll be hearing it in my head every time I see a flock of birds take flight. It's as if the two are intricately linked on some spiritual level. For the simplicity of these tunes, they are breathtaking and I am left ravenous for the remaining 7 tracks. http://bellx1.com/


THE WEBB SISTERS ARE HEADING HOME
Leonard Cohen refers to Charley and Hattie Webb as "the sublime Webb Sisters". And he should know as the sisters are backing singers to the mighty Canadian music legend. A listen to this, their latest EP (but my first) When Will You Come Home and it becomes instantly apparent why he calls them thus. They have harmonies so beautiful I think sending them to a galaxy far far away a long time ago and all they'd need to do would be to sing and The Force would come into balance. Just like that. No more Empire, no more death and destruction at the hands of the Sith and their dark side cause (even though personally I am a Sith fan, I must confess). Just an opening line and The Webb Sisters would bring peace to the universe.



Even as this EP is released the sisters are in the midst of a very long Leonard Cohen tour. There are 5 magnificent tracks on the record including a few new songs, two stunning versions of Cohen's own Show Me The Place and also a wonderful cover of Elvis classic Always On My Mind. If songs could be diamond encrusted then opening track Missing Person would sparkle as bright as any star in the night sky. It instantly sets the mood and there's no doubt you are in for a real gentle musical treat. Something special from a terrifically talented duo. Then they stun you with that wonderful version of Always On My Mind which I could happily listen to on repeat for years. Years, I tell thee. Head to their online shop >>here<< which has links to the various places you can buy their music. Alternatively head to the ProperMusic website to get a CD from there.


There are no limits to their achievements and abilities with proficiency not only vocally but as accomplished multi-instrumentalists. There is guitar, piano, mandolin and drums as you might expect from such a skilled duo but also harp, to boot. Harp! This to match their divine vocal sound. Drawing from the British and US folk pop traditions, The Webb Sisters have recorded three albums and built up a following on their extensive touring around the globe. They have also performed for royalty, twice for Princess Anne and once for The Queen. (Never thought I'd be writing those two names in a music blog post.) The sisters were also invited to sing on Sting's album If On A Winter's Night and have toured with the likes of Jamie Cullum, Rufus Wainwright (legend), Jason Mraz, James Morrison, Katie Melua and Joe Echo. http://www.thewebbsisters.com/

CHRIS GILLETT SHARES HIS SECRET SIN
I wasn't sure what I should expect from The Scholars guitarist Chris Gillett's solo EP Secret Sin. As part of the band he plays some pretty awesome guitar. This solo project is a completely different approach and sound. It is one that works damn well too. The 6 tracks comprising this collection demonstrate the diverse range of Chris' abilities and talents. Just how he is able to use so many different individual sounds, manipulate them, tweak them here and then a bit more there. All using vocals and acoustic guitar. The guitar comes through wonderfully on opening track Promise and also on my personal favourite Your Eyes Depict All The Time You Wasted On Me.

I love how ambient it is overall but that really comes to the fore with tracks like Paranoia. There's a real menace behind it. The paranoid atmosphere is built up nicely, leaving you looking around you before too long. Then again on Your Eyes, Chris has built up a sense of such depth it feels like if you fall you'll never hit the bottom. The lyrics are incredibly thought-provoking, highly emotive, and at times on the darker side but they are a perfect match to the music. There's an electronic undercurrent throughout, something that comes fully to the surface on Stay and reminds me of some Aphex TwinSecret Sin is fantastic and quite accomplished considering it is only a debut. It isn't just moody by default either, it pulls you right in to those moods so you can taste and smell them. This is definitely one you should be checking out and when it's available for just £1 what are you waiting for?? http://chrisgillett.bandcamp.com/

A BACON CAKE? YES PLEASE
It do be time for some bacon! I must apologise to the good Mr Alex Harford of The Cakes because I have been planning to feature this since some time in February. Such is the hectic nature of all the music toppling down on me. I'm still loving it so please keep sending it and just accept my most humble of apologies for any delay in me sharing stuff.



Believe In Bacon is the latest EP from this indie post-punk alternative pop rock band from Newstokastle-Underon-Lentyme. Sounds like a magical fantasy land doesn't it? A land where bacon cakes are a delicacy of the noble lords. The 3-track collection is available from their bandcamp page as a FREE download but if The Cakes get some money they can make a full album and this is something that needs to happen. It could even be a concept album based in this bacon cake filled fantasy world. The noble House of The Cakes (complete with their cakey sigil on their cakey banners) are at war with House Bacon (complete with....well you get the picture). Am I taking it too far? Apologies, but the humour of these guys and their penchant for wordplay is infectious. Their lyrics are lighthearted packing enough humour to render you laughing like you've been on laughing gas. The music is interesting, moody and atmospheric.Overall, this is inspiring, original music

Love this, taken from their bandcamp site: the music is usually lighthearted and fun, but occasionally dark...like The Clash tickling Spandau Ballet and accidentally beheading them. https://www.facebook.com/thecakesband


THE CEDARS 
Described on their Facebook page as the soundtrack to a wild, liquor-fuelled hoe-down is enough to entice people in by the jet load! Bringing the alternative country rock from across the Atlantic and rooting it deep in the UK is not an easy task by any stretch. Okay, not ALL the US bands or artists in the genre are going to be amazing but when people from different lands take up the mantle and make the sound their own, they have to be given the credit. When it is as spot on and awesome as what The Cedars achieve there should be awards flying here, there and everywhere.



Their debut album Little Copper Still was released digitally on  11th March this year. A physical CD release followed on 8th April. So, I'm not too late then with this one although this is not an album review. Not yet anyway. I just wanted to feature them because what I've heard so far fills me with joy. It is snap your fingers, strum the guitar, pick the banjo fuelled beauty, with a bad ass bass and drum beat to boot!


The band also contributed the song Used Cars to their record label's (Clubhouse Records) superb tribute album to mark the 30th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska. There are some live dates up on their website so get checking them out as they get ready to to dazzle folk at a few festivals. My time to be dazzled by them will come at Wood Festival where they will also partake in re-creating the Nebraska tribute gig they participated in with the other Clubhouse Records acts. My apologies for having to keep this brief but there will be more from The Cedars in the future. http://www.thecedarsonline.com/


AND THIS JUST IN....
HAPPY DAGGER MOVE CLOSER
I must agree with Leeds Music Scene when they say Happy Daggers are 'One of the hottest acts on the scene' because it is true! This is the kind of energetic indie rock n soul that will get the most lethargic of listeners up off their backsides to have a little boogey. It is absolutely awesome stuff and I wish it wasn't only a 'thing just in' feature because I'd like to explore them much more. I will do soon enough though so expect more from this terrific band in the near future. Their musical craftmanship is of the highest quality and the production is stunning. I fell instantly for the vocals as well. This has the lot. There has been something missing from the music scene, I think and finally Happy Daggers show up with this superb solution. https://www.facebook.com/happydaggersband



AND FINALLY...

25, 26, 27, 28 JULY 2013
CHERRY HINTON HALL GROUNDS

FULL-LINE UP NOW ANNOUNCED
 

NEW NAMES

Amadou & Mariam (Fri)  The Staves (Sun)  Tommy Emmanuel (Sat)
Thea Gilmore (Sat)  The Rambling Boys of Pleasure (Sat/Sun)  Darrell Scott (Fri)
Emily Barker & The Red Clay Halo (Fri)  Jamie Smith’s Mabon (Thurs)
The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band (Sun)  Valerie June (Sun)



CLUB TENT SHOWCASES

Ross Couper & Tom Oakes (Fri)  Blair Dunlop (Sat)  Ewan McLennan (Sat)   
Nick Mulvey (Sun)   Emma Sweeney (Sun)


THE DEN (EMERGING TALENT STAGE)

Marika Hackman (Thurs)  Hudson Taylor (Fri)  Common Tongues (Fri)
Blue Rose Code (Sat)  Rae Morris (Sun)



PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED NAMES

The Mavericks (Sat)  The Waterboys (Sun)   Bellowhead (Fri) 
KT Tunstall (Sat)  Levellers (Fri)
Liam O’Flynn, Andy Irvine, Paddy Glackin & Dónal Lunny aka LAPD (Fri)  Capercaillie (Sun)  Shelby Lynne (Sat)  BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet (Sat/Sun)  Heritage Blues Orchestra (Sat)  Patty Griffin (Fri)  Lucy Rose (Thurs)  
Martin Carthy & Dave Swarbrick (Sun)   Mud Morganfield Band (Sun)  
Martin Simpson (Sat/Sun)  Le Vent du Nord  (Sat/Sun) Sam Lee & Friends (Fri)  Breabach (Sat/Sun)  Heidi Talbot (Sat/Sun)  The Chair  (Sat/Sun)  
Mokoomba (Sat)  Willy Mason (Thurs)  The Bombay Royale (Fri) 
Bella Hardy & The Midnight Watch (Sat) Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman (Thurs)
John Hegley (Sun)  Frigg (Fri/Sat)  Larkin Poe (Thurs/Fri) 
Jim Moray’s Silent Ceilidh (Sat)  Brian McNeill (Fri/Sat)   We Banjo 3 (Sat/Sun)  Korrontzi (Fri/Sat) Sketch (Sun) Monster Ceilidh Band (Fri) 
State Of The Union (Sat)  English String Band (Fri)   The Willows (Thurs) 
Greg Russell & Ciaran Algar (Sat/Sun)  Rusty Shackle (Thurs)
The Brass Funkeys (Thurs)  Peter Buckley Hill (Sun)


TIS' THE SEASON
No sooner as our rather late Spring sprung than the 2013 festival season will soon be upon us too. Look out for my Wood Festival post coming up very shortly but in the meantime I MUST share with you the final announcement about Europe's most acclaimed folk festival. I was sincerely wishing, dreaming and even preying that I would be able to make this festival a part of my 2013 mission of coverage for the blog. BUT, sadly due to the regular financial issues it just can't be done. Maybe next year, ay? Anywho, just because I'm unable to attend doesn't stop me featuring news and information about it on here. Who knows, as tis' the season and all that perhaps there will be some miracle and I'll bag that job in music journalism or PR meaning I can go after all. We have to dream.

If I had time I would cry for not being able to make it as there are acts on this smashing line-up I desperately want to see live. Like, headliners Bellowhead, The Waterboys and KT Tunstall for instance, but that merely scratches the surface. What I'd give to see Thea Gilmore, Blair Dunlop and Ewan McLennan. There's the legend that is Patty Griffin, the legend that is becoming Willy Mason; not to mention legends in their own rights given their masterful musicianship and flawless vocals such as Larkin Poe, Lucy Rose and Sam Lee. *whispers and gestures you to come closer* 'Come here, there's more...' The BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winning duo Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman will delight festival goers with their sublime mix of traditional folk songs with their own unique contemporary twists. Expect many a tune from their most recent fabulous album, Hidden People. Those mighty Levellers will headline the Friday night with folk juggenaut Bellowhead. That alone ought to start you jigging and moshing into a momentum that won't cease until Sunday!


Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman aren't the only married duo who will be wooing the crowd, either. They will be joined by groundbreaking and world renowned Malian husband and wife Amadou & Mariam with their superb and infectious vocal interplay and captivating blues sound. The heavenly harmonies of the sublime sibling trio The Staves will take the audience to paradise. It's important to point out here how much Cambridge Folk Festival does to promote promising young talent at the event. They have nurtured The Staves over the last few years. From their 2011 debut in The Den through to the Club Tent and Stage 2. Quite rightly, this years sees them billed on the Main Stage on Sunday. Thea Gilmore has been described by MOJO as 'the most coherent, literate and charged British singer-songwriter of her generation...' and Saturday sees her strut her musical finery on the main stage. Prepare to be majorly WOW'd because you're in for a right treat!


Tell some people (mostly people not quite so much into music) you're going to a folk festival and you may get a funny look. Or a stunned silence before being handed some tweed or something. One thing I've always noticed about Cambridge is how it embraces diversity with the genres of music it promotes. On the one hand you have the folk punk rock of The Levellers, balanced out by the more traditional folk but nevertheless rock-infused Bellowhead. While there is this and a range of much more, there will always be many an act for the more traditionalist fans. Look no further than folkists The Rambling Boys of Pleasure, a group boasting some of  the finest musicians on the Irish traditional music scene. A long way from home and passing through on Friday is US singer, writer and guitarist Darrell Scott with his addictive alternative country soaked heavily in and dripping with boisterous blues. From even further afield you'll be treated to the compelling, the stunning, the magnificence of Western Australia's Emily Barker & The Red Clay Halo. That will be one not to miss, if you ask me! Take heed please folks.

As mentioned, this festival supports up and coming talent and this year the five acts selected to play prestigious showcases in the Club Tent are, Ross Couper & Tom Oakes; acclaimed Scottish singer-songwriter Ewan McLennan (who's music has been described as 'a mix of the Tradition, social history and political awareness'); founding member of Mercury Prize nominated Portico Quartet Nick Mulvey; exhilarating fiddle player Emma Sweeney; and last but certainly by no means least will be the 2013 BBC Folk Horizon Award winner Blair Dunlop. (Previous examples include Seth Lakeman, Karine Polwart, Newton Faulkner, Rachel Unthank, Jackie Oates and Jim Moray)


QUICK, EVERYONE INTO THE DEN



Dens were the 'in thing' at one point weren't they? I think they had started going out of fashion (if that even applies in this case?) during my childhood but I remember we had one on some recreation grounds at the back of my Nan's garden. It felt pretty cool to us, anyway. We were about 6 or 7 so judge us not harshly. Anyway, I digress and must not. The Den is the acclaimed fourth stage at the festival. It plays host to some top quality emerging talent across the weekend including: 20-year old folk singer Marika Hackman, who has already been receiving attention from Radio 1; fresh from supporting Jake Bugg on tour will be busking YouTube sensations Hudson Taylor, featuring Irish brothers Harry and Alfie who have blown me clean away with their stunning music; Brighton-based 5-piece indie folk band Common Tongues who continued the theme by blowing me away with such magnificent music - such great stuff. 


LET'S ROUND UP THE ROUND-UP
So let's see then: International headline artists and young emerging talent will be singing and playing their wares across FOUR stages this July. The quality and calibre of acts drawn to perform at Cambridge Folk Festival is a chief reason why year after year it enjoys sell-out success! There's its beautiful and unique parkland location, its superb facilities and family-oriented nature; it really offers something for EVERYONE. From street theatre, music workshops and sessions to open stages, a youth area and even an internet cafe for you to plug yourself in for your online fix. There's a free creche if you parents need a wee break, including a paddling pool and playground. Most importantly of course - well, okay not really MOST importantly but pretty important, in my book anyway - there are REAL ALE bars. 

For online booking please visit: www.cambridgefolkfestival.co.uk
Phone booking, call: 01223 357 851

Tickets: FULL FESTIVAL: £126; Thursday £20; Friday £45; Saturday £55; Sunday £55. CAMPING: (Full Festival tickets only, per 2-3 berth tent) Cherry Hinton £54, Coldhams Common (second site) £37. Online bookings are subject to a booking fee.

Another HUGE thank you to Jay Taylor at Prescription PR for the Press Release for this festival.

Monday, 8 April 2013

BAND OF BADGERS PRESENTS...#13




Hola peoples of the music loving variety. Always with the apologies but I recorded this podcast way back at the end of February. Madness! I was supposed to be getting a quicker move on. I bang on about this each and every time, I know - broken record much. Still, it is here now for your listening and reading and whatever else pleasure. Happy Easter to y'all by the way, even though I've missed that now as well. Reading a news website to catch up with some headlines just before the Easter break I stumbled across this rather tasty looking badger. The title was Betty's Chocolate Badger which, if you ask me, invites a number of connotations I shall not go into here (cue some kind of traditional folk song). Very apt for Band of Badgers Presents, wouldn't you say?

I am still rather high from the Sigur Ros gig at the start of last month (yes, still on about that). That was boosted up by another chance to see the marvelous roots singer-songwriter Luke Jackson at Stratford Folk Club. Good Friday became Great Friday thanks to his ever-awesome and stunning performances. Insanely talented for such a young chap. Check out these couple of videos from that gig. The first, White Lies was a song I played on my very first podcast about a year ago now (Happy Birthday BOBP). Although I'd seen Luke twice before this gig, this was the first time he has played this song. Well done to the local opening act Hannah and Sam too, who were fantastic. I shall be keeping my eyes open for more from this pair as the year goes on so expect to see them feature in some way at some point.


Picture taken by myself
The latest gig I went to was in The City itself, London town. Misfit Barry (Simon) aka Iwan Rheon performed at Bush Hall on Saturday 6th April. As I'm on his mailing list (seriously so many mailing lists but hey, there are fantastic freebies involved sometimes) I got a FREE download of a track Iwan recorded in the studio. How he finds the time to do the music as well as the acting I do not know. Particularly as he is in so much stuff. Not least in season 3 of Game of Thrones which I didn't even know about before last week. How this little nugget of geekery information passed me by I do not know. A loss of geek points for me. Before I get on with things you should totally go purchase his new EP Bang Bang via iTunes >>here<<.

Anyway, without much more of a ramble as I'm so far behind I'm barely out of January (perhaps that's why it still feels so bloody cold), I will get on with this blogcast.


THE SCHOLARS GET SPOOKY
Picture taken from The Scholars' Facebook page
Indeed, I am so far behind I really am stuck in January as returning readers of the blog will note Love The Thunder was released by The Scholars back at the end of January. I did share it a couple of times at that time so I can be forgiven. And like I say, I did have it on the podcast by the end of February it's just taken me until now to get it on here. Anywho, you should get buying this wonderful track if you haven't already, although there's also a marvelous bundle you can probably still get your hands on for £15. This includes all the songs the band have released so far, a t-shirt and a mug. Check out their official Facebook page for more details and send the guys a message.



Alternatively and more appropriately, the band have a new EP collection which will be available exclusively at their live shows. Re-Wired features ALL their singles and is the only way to get Love The Thunder in a physical format.


With a few months gone it is time for another release for the guys and this time it is my personal favourite of the current batch, Spooks. Seeing them play this live in Banbury at the beginning of February just cemented its greatness for me. It has EVERYTHING! I'm a huge fan of all their music, as you can no doubt guess from how much I feature them, but this tune is just AMAZING! Spooks is released on 8th April and will be another FREE download so please please please get on that and grab some fantastic FREE music. Share it, review it, share it some more. And if you happen to have a spare quid floating about you can be kind and generous and pay for this top tune. You don't have to of course but given the quality I really think you should. As with their previous releases, there's also an official video at their YouTube channel, which I've included above. I understand now exactly what band member Leigh Taylor meant when he was discussing the editing mission ahead of him. It is stellar work. An excellent end result!



There are a number of gig dates up on their website so don't miss out on a tremendous live act. Get along to one and bring all your mates. You won't be disappointed. There's also a little something special from guitarist Chris Gillett to come in the next post as he's released his own solo EP, Secret Sin. Before I feature it you can (and you really should) of course check it out >>here<<https://www.facebook.com/thescholarsofficial


BLOODFLOWER
Another track released quite a while ago and I have also shared this one via a blog post previously. I nevertheless wanted to give it an airing on the podcast. Fresh from the disbanding of the marvelous band he belonged to (The Last Republic), Jonnie Owen teamed up with producer Tom Manning to collaborate with just a few ideas. The ideas grew and the results of their experimentation bore fruit in the form of a debut album. That fruit is still ripening but this first tasty offering in the form of Indigo bodes very well indeed. Grab your FREE copy via the music glue website by clicking >>here<<


There's also a really cool interview with Jonnie on the Alternative Music Press blog. Read that >>here<<.

ARCANE ROOTS SHOW REAL RESOLVE
Picture from Arcane Roots Facebook page
What a stonker of a tune! Resolve showcases all the amazing wonder of these guys and gives a sneaky peak at just what fantastic music is in store for us from their forthcoming debut album, Blood & Chemistry due out 6th May. There's also a headline tour to promote the release, the dates for which are on the band's website as well as below for your ease. In the meantime click on their Soundcloud page and grab yourselves these two FREE downloads. Music this good that is FREE astounds me. All FREE music astounds me but it is so difficult for artists and bands these days with music piracy as rife as it is.



Their sound is pure ROCK to the core but they mix together a number of other genres so seamlessly you'll notice no dividing lines. Moreover, they stand out from the mass crowd of what's out there currently, in my opinion. I'm quadruply mega uber-excited I should be seeing these guys at this year's Truck Festival. Live, I imagine Arcane Roots kick some mighty ass! http://www.arcaneroots.co.uk/

Tuesday 30th April - Clwb Ifor, Cardiff
Wednesday 1st May - Bacchus, Kingston Upon Thames
Thursday 2nd May - Liverpool Sound City Festival, Liverpool (various venues)
Thursday 2nd May - Rock City, Nottingham
Saturday 4th May - Kasbah - Coventry
Sunday 5th May - O2 ABC 2, Glasgow
Monday 6th May - The Think Tank, Newcastle Upon Tyne
Tuesday 7th May - Sound Control, Manchester
Wednesday 8th May - The Cockpit, Leeds
Thursday 9th May - Electrowerkz, London


THE COMO BROTHERS PARACHUTE IN
I did indeed share the latest EP from The Como Brothers Band in the previous blog post. It needed sharing as I was running so late with this post. When I recorded it and played the awesome Parachute as part of the playlist, the EP Still Waters still hadn't yet been released. I was hoping to have this blogcast up and sorted by or shortly after that release date. It deserves another massive share so I'll push it again. Make sure you get to the band's Reverbnation page (click >>here<<) to check out the tunes it offers. Still Waters is accomplished and superb!


There are also some FREE downloads from these guys. I know! So much FREE stuff this time so far. Go get. No excuses! The songs Bad Karma and I Don't Like You are available right now with just a couple of clicks. Such is my enjoyment of this band's music I'll be sharing more of it by playing Bad Karma on podcast #14.


The brothers Como would be hugely appreciative if you'd kindly take a few moments of your time to vote for them in the Battle of the Bands so they can be in with a chance of getting selected to play on the US Warped Tour 2013. Click on this link >>here<< and after a few more little clicks you can help them on their way to being a part of that tour. They will thank you and so will I. And Poppy Cat too and given she's a deity you're being thanked by the divine, so come on folks. Get clicking and voting please. http://www.comobrothersband.com/

LIGHTFIRE SET THE NIGHT ABLAZE
It saddened me I was unable to make it to Lightfire's EP launch a while back. I had even put it in my diary months before. Such is the life of a penniless writer *violins begin to play mournfully*. Anywho, I am hoping I will get along to a show at some point this year. In the meantime I can't stop playing the tunes from Run Aground as well as those from a CD I bought from the band earlier last year. It takes a heck of a lot to beat their contemporary heavy rock sound. If you like your rock music, hard and heavy balanced with sublime vocals then make sure you get on board the Lightfire train. You can purchase Run Aground from iTunes by clicking >>here<<. https://www.facebook.com/lightfireuk


I DIVIDE WILL NEVER BURN OUT
These boys have been rather busy lately. Not only have they been out on the road as part of the opening support for the mighty Funeral For A Friend, but they've been working hard on album #2. They have also just set off on the road yet again headlining for a string of dates as part of the OurZone FOUND Tour 2013. Tickets are a mere few quid paying for the transaction fee. A perfect way for you to enjoy some quality live hard alternative rock music in a cost effective way. Tickets are available via the OurZoneMag website >>here<<.


Also, following their slot at last year's Download festival they are returning again for more this year. I Divide are smashing it folks so get your piece of them now. I mean just listen to this stunning live piano rendition of Cold At The Bottom! AMAZING! http://www.idivideband.com/


LOSING LOVE & SOULS IN POMPEII
Picture taken from Poor Souls Facebook page

Here we have a truly international type of affair. The Poor Souls of Pompeii hail from London via Pakistan, Norfolk, America and South Korea. Quite a few continents included there creating a trans-continental band of sorts. Their sound is rather exquisite as well. The music is awesome, the vocals, stunning. When music is this good it deserves to be paid for in full. But you lucky indie music fans get their entire debut album totally FREE via their Facebook page (click >>here<<). 


Without Finesse belies its very name because there is finesse galore on the finished record. It is packed with tune after tune. This is a debut to be mighty proud of and like I say, the band deserve to be getting paid for their hard work. If they are serious about their collective interests they'll happily take world domination via sushi, a bottle of red wine and meat. http://facebook.com/poorsouls

ANOKATO IS FAR FROM USELESS
Making music to balance out the craziness you see every day in life is perhaps one of THE best reasons to make music. That is just what German rock band Anokato aspire to do. They do it rather well, if you ask me. Influences reach far beyond their home country, with their name meaning 'topsy turvy' in Greek. Doesn't have the same ring to it as Anokato does it? That said, Anokato suits them just perfectly and while the music is topsy turvy, it is in such a quality way you will not help but love it.


Further, DeZombification means the act of getting oneself out of autopilot. It is also the name of their album project. This is no ordinary way of releasing music. For every 10,000 followers Anokato get on Twitter, they release a new song. Follow them @anokatoband. I'll be honest, I LOVE this music. It really does what it claims to. It is different. It is rock. Sometimes hard, sometimes soft and sometimes there are heavy bass lines and a bit of rap thrown into the mix. There's ambient sounds thrown in too. There is so much and it all comes together beautifully. Plus, is it just me who thinks one of the vocalists sounds a tad like a certain Mr Bowie? Not intentionally but just how he sounds. Awesome stuff. Download your FREE EP via the website. http://www.dezombification.org/

PHIL McMINN BUILDS FROM RUINS
Add caption
I just could not resist getting Phil McMinn's debut 4-track EP, A Crystal / A Diamond / An End / A Start. Everything I was reading and hearing about it was making me get closer and closer. As you may or may not be aware, my finances are not great so I do have to be careful what I'm spending on music. If I had my way, I would happily spend all my monthly salary on buying new (and old, for that matter) music but sadly we can't all have what we want. It was only a couple of quid so it was cost effective anyway. Released in December last year, this was at a time when we all plough our hard-earned cash into the big commercial materialistic capitalist dream that used to be referred to as Christmas. Bah humbug! Don't get me started on that. Pennies become even less expendable is what I mean, but I was sure to set some aside for this EP and it was a worthy investment.


Phil is AMAZING! There it is! Nuff said. But hang on a minute. This tremendous talent needs more words. Yes, I do go on a bit too much a lot of the time but sometimes there is great need. The 4 tracks on this record are nothing short of musical perfection. His vocals are sublime. I could happily just stick a CD of his on repeat (or indeed, it's digital equivalent) and just relax, listening to it for hours on end. You may not be able to get hold of one of the original limited edition physical CDs (so glad I got mine) but you can buy the digital version via bandcamp above. What are you waiting for? Have a listen to it. Trust me, once you have you will not be able to stop your fingers clicking that BUY NOW button. https://www.facebook.com/philmcminnmusic

 HAIL SUKH, KING!
Sukh is indeed the King! With a debut album like the one he is gearing up to release, he has earned this regal status. There's a real warmth and a staggering depth to his folk-infused sound. The lyrics are contemplative and while darker sides are explored, Sukh brings us back into the light with a subtle yet refreshing objectivity. The single Kings is available to buy via iTunes for just 79 little pennies. Click >>here<< to buy. You can get a sneaky listen to a few other songs from the forthcoming album via Sukh's Soundcloud page, including the very beautiful Clear Horizon below.



He also has some wonderful videos on his YouTube page you should check out. Also, DO NOT miss out on the gigs listed if you are in the area because this guy is going to be unmissable, live. Dates below. http://iamsukh.com


10th April - The Tiger Lounge, Manchester
19th April - The Constitution, London
4th June - TV Nights, upstairs @ Ronnie Scott's, London

WHITEMOOR ARE ALL I'VE EVER KNOWN
In the last blog post I shared the recent release of Whitemoor's second single from the forthcoming follow-up to their self-titled debut album, Horizons. It's a case of just when you think you might have a band pegged down to some kind of sound they go and surprise you into next year. Not that Whitemoor have ever rested on any one specific pigeon-hole type label system but you know, things do at least often settle in a particular area. Hover. Yes, hover would be a more appropriate word because they do always move around. All I've Ever Known blows you right out of that area, though. With added vocals from MC Alex 'Motormouf' Young (from Just James), it features something magical. It really works superbly. This is the official video for the song so please watch, enjoy and share. Show some love please and if you haven't downloaded the single yet? Get on it by clicking >>here<<.


MERCIA EVENTS - LIVE IN YOUR HOUSE
Mercia Events Ltd is a new events and promotions company. Specialising in live music, promoting new bands and hosting comedy events they also now have an artist and venue agency able to link performers with quality venues around the UK. Their mission, as they've chosen to accept it, is: to provide the very best in music, new music and comedy entertainment events in the UK. And the reason I'm mentioning them here? Well, they have kindly linked this blog to their page so I will be featuring lots more about them in due course. Listings and helping to promote various events for them. They do a great deal for unsigned indie music acts who, given the state of the music industry as it stands, struggle to get their feet in the door through the usual channels. For this alone they are to be commended. In a similar way to the great work of New Music Connection.


While their fantastic Live House shows are not exactly live in your very own house (house gigs seem to be really catching on though these days, so who knows what may follow), they do offer a night of quality live music from top emerging talent from all over the UK. These events provide a platform for brand new and existing bands/artists to perform to new audiences while building up some experience of playing professionally. Their next event is on Thursday 2nd May at Brewhouse Arts Centre in Burton on Trent. Tickets are available to purchase via their website (click >>here<<). Tickets cost £8.50 (or £7.50 for you students).


The line-up is garage flavoured rock n roll band The Cheap Thrills from Liverpool. OMG! Checking out their official video for Serfdom, it is beyond belief these guys aren't already huge! They sound rounded, polished and produce such quality I am gutted I won't be able to get my ass to this gig. I don't live a million miles away from Burton on Trent so I will be getting to one at some point. You know the score for me though. I don't earn enough and have ridiculously low annual leave entitlement (as does pretty much everyone to be fair). So, as it is on a Thursday night and with fuel costs involved it's not do-able, at present. I'm working on it, believe me! Gutted! The other band I'm already familiar with and can hopefully play a tune from both these on a future podcast. The Indieannas, I'm sure I've featured, or at least mentioned before as they are on the same label as Whitemoor - Sound-Hub. Again, gutted I can't get to the gig as I would love to review it too. I'll share a bit more about these two great bands before that gig anyways so fear not. The Indieannas new single is available for download from iTunes though, so click >>here<< to grab hold of that. http://www.merciaevents.com/

MR PEEPS PRESENTS
I MUST share this wonderful podcast with you while I'm at it. Mr Peeps Presents is a part of the Mercia Events network too and offers the best in unsigned music. I've listened to the first two podcasts thus far and cannot wait to catch up with the third. They are half the length of mine and Mr Peeps doesn't ramble on quite as much as myself, which is a blessing of course. Please don't all leave me though as we both offer great unsigned and indie music. You really need to be listening to this one as well and at just over half hour it is something you can slip in to your busy schedules quite easily. Podcast #1 is below for you. There will most certainly be some overlap, by which I mean I am so impressed by a lot of the music he plays, I will be featuring some in future blog post music shares. https://soundcloud.com/mrpeepspresents




MORE MERCIA MAYHEM WITH MERCIANS
Picture taken from Mercians' Facebook page
While in the Mercia region there's a stunning local alternative rock band called Mercians who have released 4 top tracks via their Reverbnation page. This is an awesome EP I had me appetite whetted for a few weeks ago after hearing just one of the tracks, We Are Kraken. The other three certainly don't disappoint so come on, get behind this fantastic local band! Keep up to date via both their Reverbnation and Facebook pages because there are some gig dates up you really shouldn't be missing too. https://www.facebook.com/wearemercians



FIREFLYS SET LIGHT TO 
THEIR AUTUMN EMBERS
Picture taken from The Fireflys Facebook page
Their forthcoming album Embers of The Autumn is so damn HOT, The Fireflys are sure to set the summer ablaze when they release it. I've said before how every now and then I come across a band who are instantly adopted as a band of the moment. The Fireflys are just such a band and the latest on my list so rather than bang on too much about them here, they will be getting their very own blog post. It will include a review of the stunning Embers of The Autum, information on some previous releases, a bit about 3-piece alternative rock band themselves and in their very own words by way of some interview questions. Have a listen to the first song from this new album, Julianne, below.



It has taken blood, sweat and tears to get to the point they're at today and produce this latest album but when it is as amazing as the end result here, it all becomes completely worth it. Find out just what it took to get this made in this forthcoming dedicated post. To keep you going until then you can listen to their album Cathedral For Your Ashes at their Soundcloud page. Just click >>here<<. This is also available to buy via Amazon >>here<< or via iTunes >>here<<. And yes, there's more of that stunning guitar work at play in Embers.


DANIEL PEARSON CATCHES SOME WAVES
Daniel started following me on Twitter (follow him @daniel_pearson). This is how I was introduced to his acclaimed music. Needless to say I snapped up the FREE download of Waves In The Sea that is on offer. Get your copy via bandcamp by clicking on the below.

Add caption
There is oh so very much more from Daniel though so check out the sample via his Soundcloud page. These include a number of songs from his albums Satellites and Mercury State. Both these albums are available from the online store at his official website (click >>here<<). Alternatively you can buy Daniel's music via iTunes, if that is your preferred method (click >>here<<). This is a singer-songwriter with a pure UK americana soul offering up some of the best contemporary folk, soaked in soft rock with liberal dashes of alternative country. While multiple genres get their look-in, demonstrating the scope to his talents, I've included the mellow Factory Floor with its beautiful build up. This song is on the more recent album, Mercury State. It gave me mega goosebumps. Now go. Stock up on those marvelous albums. http://danielpearson.net/




NYNKE 


I class this as a VERY special feature. I'll be honest, I had not heard of Nynke before receiving an email from one of the wonderful folk at Prescription PR (thanks Jay), about her forthcoming album. She hails from Friesland and the thing that makes her even more special than her beautiful voice is that she sings in one of the world's rarest languages. Frisian is only spoken in the northern parts of The Netherlands. With a dedicated commitment to cultural diversity, Nynke's music helps to preserve and develop one of Europe's final remaining minority languages. The title of the album, Alter, is an inspired and important choice, having several meanings. It is Latin for 'other', the English verb for 'to change/transform'. In Frisian it means 'altar' connecting it to the very rituals of life. Enjoy the above track (and please share it), translated in English as Dance Of The Seeds and look out for a complete album review coming soon. It is a beauty! http://www.nynkelaverman.nl/

JAMES YOUNGER'S MONDAY MORNINGS IS HOW ALL WEEKS SHOULD BEGIN!
Monday Morning is the new single from British-born but Canadian-based singer-songwriter James Younger. I've read it described as pop sorcery and have to agree there is certainly something magical about it. I think James is going to prove he has some mighty power to wield in the pop world. It isn't strictly pop but it leaps into the market quite comfortably. It is much more than that, though. The first listen had me going from the off. It makes me want to move. It pulls you up, demanding some active listening. It wouldn't sound out of place among the greatest of the indie alternative rock type stuff and although there's much more yet to come from James, I think Monday Morning deserves to be up there already.



Go and buy your copy of Monday Morning NOW from >>here<< and make your Monday Morning a better one. Heck, listening to this tune will make every moment of every day much better for you. Thankfully, we shouldn't have too long to wait for more top music from James, with his debut album Feelin' American due out this summer. https://www.facebook.com/jamesyoungermusic


ALBUM CORNER
ARTIST: FAUSTUS
ALBUM: BROKEN DOWN GENTLEMEN
LABEL: NAVIGATOR RECORDS
TRACKS: 10
Late, late AND late! That's me. Apologies. Typically, a little bit more traditional than I tend to go for but after listening to Broken Down Gentlemen just once I knew I had to write some words about it. I love this album. It's easy to understand why Faustus were nominated in the 2009 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. The triumvirate consists of Saul Rose (Waterson: Carthy, Whapweasel), Benji Kirkpatrick (Seth Lakeman Band, Bellowhead) and Paul Sartin (Bellowhead, Belshazzar's Feast), each individually distinguished and accomplished yet they come together as the Faustus fellowship to produce something magnificent.

Broken Down Gentlemen is their second album. It actually excites me I still have another whole record to enjoy, even if I am doing this backwards. It opens with the title track featuring Benji on lead vocals and while cemented in the traditional folk sound, it has a totally fresh and contemporary feel to it. It instantly brings to mind a tavern common room full of folk enjoying their ale and wine. The torches burn bright and the people are in their cups having a good ole' dance to just such a group of musicians as you might find out on the road during peacetime in Westeros (Game of Thrones). That might have something to do with the accompanying melody being the Cotswold morris dance tune, Bobbing Joan. The arrangement is wonderful. In contrast American Stranger stirs up the emotions with its lamenting vocals, this time from Paul. It concludes with a near two minute instrumental that is no less moving. The fiddle in particular, is sublime.



It's Saul's turn at the vocals for Prentice Boy and here comes a tune that while upbeat and jig-inducing, it completely subverts the dark nature of its lyrics. A few tracks later and Captain's Apprentice tugs harder at the soul. No upbeat jig for this sad tale; rather a solemn memorial for this prentice boy, killed at the hands of his master's mistreatment. Murder and death are subjects all folk fans are familiar with. Indeed, they are as prevalent as sexual innuendo in many a traditional song. I'll leave the closing track Thrashing Machine with you *blushes*. When a chorus comes along it tends to be one that entices you to sing along with a passion. Altogether now, 'Blow The Windy Morning, blow the winds I-O...' and 'Steady on the tiller with your Hog's Eye O, You are the Hog's Eye Man.' The former has a marvelous magical melody that enchants, the latter so hook-laden it's impossible to shake off.


These three talented musicians have taken ten traditional English folk songs and produced perfect, pristine musical arrangements. They have added to this their flawless vocals with some beautiful backing harmonies, to produce a folk masterpiece. The arrangements on the likes of The Banks of The Nile, Lovely Johnny and American Stranger showcase their supremacy in the genre. It is easy to see why they work ceaselessly on such numerous other projects, because their outstanding musicianship is quite rightly in high demand. 

SEASFIRE WILL WAKE YOU
What a sound! Ambient and atmospheric. Seasfire are an electronic band describing themselves as 4am melancholy, drifting pianos and desolate songs of heartbreak from the shadows of Bristol. It sounds mighty grim doesn't it? It really isn't. While many of the songs may very well touch upon the darker side of human emotion, Seasfire express them with such a succinct perfection the results are sublime. And their remixes are revolutionary.


This is electronic pop as it should be. Talented musicians producing quality experimental music! You can preview the new EP We Will Wake via iTunes >>here<<. http://seasfire.tumblr.com/

SESSIONS IN BRIEF...
Time to don those briefs again. Oh dear! Why do I do that? For those of you who aren't currently throwing up and hitting the little x button in the top right hand corner, here's a couple of final pieces to share with y'all.

RITA PAYNE GET COMFY ONT'SOFA
This is the second time I've included a video from this marvelous folk roots duo and this second one is every bit as aurally tasty and sublime as the last one. As soon as time allows I'll feature more about them but there are all the regular links for you to go hear and see more of their stunning music in the meantime. This gem is a video for the Ont' Sofa Gibson Sessions. Rita Payne performed a few original songs, this one is Not A Penny To My Name. http://www.ritapaynemusic.com/


In fact, I really need to by ass into gear and feature their awesome debut album Stories From A Suitcase. Check it out at their bandcamp page >>here<<.

SOFAR SO SECRET FOR MARK NICHOLS

Yet another stunning little session of a live video. This time from the hugely talented Mark Nichols. Swapping the sofa for a Sofar room, this was one of Sofarsounds secret gigs filmed in Paris while Mark was venturing off on tour recently. https://www.facebook.com/marknicholsmusic


DAVID GEFTAKYS IS PLAYING GAMES
It was thanks to Twitter for bringing David's music to me. I was asked to check out this video and I really enjoyed it. He is an unsigned singer-songwriter who's been building a bit of a name for himself over in LA. His debut album, The Game We Play is OUT NOW and if you buy your music via iTunes you can check it out and purchase it >>here<<. www.davidgeftakys.com



JUST ONE MORE BEAUTIFUL THING:
LILLYBELLE
 I really have no choice but to share this briefly. My huge thanks to the wonderful singer-songwriter Thomas Smith (@Tom_Smith_Music) for messaging me a link to this earlier today. He said I'd love it and love it I do. I wish I had more time to write about it here. In due course. It so beautiful I just had to share it, at least.



AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETE DIFFERENT.....WELL, SORT OF.....ISH.

This is a beautiful arrangement of the Game of Thrones theme tune by cello rock band Break of Reality. Love, love, love it! What? You seriously didn't expect me to get through a whole blog post and not mention Game of Thrones again? Come on folks, you should know me better than that by now. http://www.breakofreality.com/

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING REALLY COMPLETELY DIFFERENT



Absolutely fell in love with this Game of Thrones parody. I stumbled across it on YouTube and am hooked. I've only seen the first two episodes but the second one is awesome. I can't wait to check in on more.

Well, well, well. That is a wrap for this one guys. As always thanks so much for your time and attention. I hope you've found something to your liking and will help out those unsigned and indie acts to keep doing what they need to do. I know I say it each and every time but I have so much on the way and so much to be getting on with so I'm off to get on with it all. Well, after watching the latest episode of Game of Thrones of course. Sooooooooooooooo much music to share there will be another general sharing post to come shortly. I figure I should be aiming to share between five to ten artists/bands each time to hopefully help with posting more often. Then there's The Fireflys post and there will be a special feature on Wood Festival given that it is only a smidgen over a month away. Let's hope by time Band of Badgers Presents #14 goes live, Spring has finally sprung. Until next time, peace to you all.