ENTER THE WOOD - WOOD FESTIVAL 2013 PREVIEW

Friday 17th, 

Saturday, 18th, 

Sunday 19th May.

http://www.woodfestival.com

Pic by Andy Sheppard/Redferns/Getty taken from http://www.guardian.co.uk

Given how modern times have altered so much beyond what was, say the 60s and 70s, it is rare to find any kind of event that might even hope to shadow what some all-out peaceful festival of music and nature would have been like back then. Look no further though folks because have I found the festival for you! Wood seems to me to be a bit like literally stepping through a time portal directly into the summer of 1967 (whatever the British weather attempts to throw at us). This is a REAL nice small family-oriented 'something for all' kind of festival. For those watching their carbon footprint too (and this should be every single one of us by now - come on peoples), Wood is run on 100% renewable energy. Not only this but you pay a set price for the parking pass and if you have over a certain number of people/festival revelers in the car when you arrive, you will get part of that fee back. If there is just one of you, you will be asked to pay a bit more. It's a great way to encourage folk to car share so for any individuals who were planning to travel in alone, get in contact with each other and enjoy what is a wonderful little community. More money for pints too, of course...erm, I mean treats for the kids (if you have them that is - I don't so mine will go on pints). It describes itself as a celebration of music and nature set amidst the beautiful Chiltern Hills. Located in the grounds of Braziers Park in Ipsden, Oxfordshire, the surroundings are stunning. Add all of that top quality live music to the mix, with the rich blend of workshops and stalls, there is no finer way to kick-start your summer.

Organized by the Bennett brothers of The Dreaming Spires (who will be performing a set), this is their little beauty of a gathering of some of the best folk, roots, americana and alternative country acts out there although other genres are catered for as well. Going hand-in-hand with the theme of being eco-friendly, Wood also cuts down on emissions in other ways by sourcing a whole host of top local talent from the surrounding area. I've previously nicknamed Oxford as being a bit like Seattle in the US. There are so many inspiring and fantastic bands/artists that come from and/or originate in this county. It's like a music hub. It must be something about the Oxfordshire air. Or perhaps something in the water. Whatever it is, there will be plenty of acts performing over the weekend to support my claim.You be the judge. Get your excellent value for money tickets NOW and you'll be privileged to see sensational acts from much further afield as well.

As part of its commitment to being ecologically friendly towards the environment - and also no doubt an important part of promoting the celebration of nature component of its ethos - there are many green issues highlighted. These come in the form of composting toilets, showers heated by wood-burning stoves, a solar-powered stage and a people-powered fairground (yes, I too am imagining people on bicycles peddling as fast as possible to keep that merry-go-round going round - but hey, perhaps this wouldn't be such a bad idea and ideal for burning those extra festival calories). It really is all about being green. More importantly it demonstrates clearly how putting on something as potentially power-zapping as a music festival can still be achieved through more environmentally friendly means. Okay, it may become more of a logistical nightmare the bigger the festival but organizers of those larger ones should take heed. I hope the time is dawning when ALL such events will have little choice than to operate in such a way. And what's this? A bicycle-powered discotheque. I honestly cannot wait to check this out!

WORKSHOPS FOR ALL

Considering the small size of the festival there are more workshops operating at Wood than I've seen put on at any of the larger events I've been to over the years. These are wide-ranging too, both in terms of subject matter and targeted age. Indeed, many will cater and satisfy folk of all ages, from children to grandparents. The workshop village will be running ALL day Saturday and Sunday giving revelers time enough to try out more things than ever before.

Everything from making a willow lantern to light your way back to your tent (no need for wretched chemical batteries for invasive torches here), to getting creative with your junk by making funky stuff like wallets, jewellery, musical instruments and much more. These in particular cater for the nature loving environmentalist.

For the musician wannabes who have never really made it beyond strumming more than a G on a guitar (me then) there's things like learning to play the spoons. Hmmm - Spoon Idol....I'm thinking I should pitch this idea to ITV perhaps. If singing is more your thing but you sound like a fog horn crossed with a sheep, Katy Bennett wants you signing up for her Harmony Singing workshop. She will soon have you sounding like a choir of angels or a Barbershop quartet.

For me, it gets even more interesting with the likes of learning Acupressure massage techniques or how to give a Indian Head Massage. There will be tai-chi, which I have always wanted to get into but is one of those things I've not been able to find affordable lessons for. Perhaps with this taster I can find a way to develop a self-teaching path. Or at least become more confident in finding and joining a class. Then yoga, which again would be great to try but I am not in the slightest way bendy enough for such an endeavour. Even so, just having the opportunity to try these things out is one of the many fantastic things about this festival. There is even a Shamanic Ritual Theatre workshop (for 18+ only) if you'd like to open you third eye and your heart to become more informed about the energetic field within and around us.

AND JUST FOR THE KIDDIES

In addition to all the main activities available, most of which will be suitable for both adults and children, there will also be separate workshops in the Kids Tent.

There's so much more, to boot. From working with herbs, making a wormery and taking a soundwalk to wood working and carving out a totem pole. Nothing has been spared here with such a well-thought out and inspiring selection of choices. It's a wonder you'll have time enough left in which to eat. Fear not, for those who wish to sample the provided catering facilities, there will be ample opportunity for that too.

A CLOSER LOOK AT   
SOME OF THE MUSIC

ADAM BARNES

As part of the homegrown mix is alternative folk singer-songwriter Adam Barnes offering, who's debut EP Blisters is available from iTunes (>>here<<). That in itself is enough to whet your appetite for what promises to be a superb live performance. There is more, however. Blisters is also available via Adam's bandcamp page along with a FREE download of Come Undone and a rather awesome live EP titled Live From Washington to York. There is even more. Adam has been working like a Trojan on his debut album The Land, The Sea & Everything Lost Beneath. I may have only caught up with his previous tunes over the last week or so but given the high quality I am really excited about hearing him perform live at Wood. And for the host of new tracks that will be on the album. In order to complete this album Adam has had to enlist the help of music fans via a Kickstarter campaign. Akin to the Pledgemusic programmes, fans and pledgers can offer up a certain amount of money (from as little as £1) that counts towards a set goal amount. Testament to the calibre of Adam's music making in just three little days he was already at £1920 of his £2500 goal. With still 23 days to go he has already smashed through the target and is currently sitting pretty on £3000! Now he will get the all-important financial support to enable him to complete and release The Land, The Sea & Everything Lost Beneath.


On a seperate note I need to enlist his assistance in beard growing because he sports one absolutely amazing beard and I find myself rather envious. I need tips on how to encourage my face fuzz to grow and look so cool!

CO-PILGRIM

There's a reason why Co-Pilgrim have been getting a lot of radio attention recently - because their music is AWESOME! Seriously, it is the kind that induces spine-tingles. Spine-tingles, folks! The charming velvety vocals from Mike Gale alone are enough to hook you to this wonderful group but one cannot neglect the tremendous talents of the other core members, Joe Bennett, Andy Reaney, Claire Bennett and Tom Wenzel. They recently released (in February) their 2nd LP A Fairer Sea which is available via iTunes >>here<< or via various other download methods, including a physical CD >>here<<. Last year I missed their set at Truck Festival *slaps own face* and I don't intend to make that mistake this year at Wood.

FLIGHTS OF HELIOS

Again, this is another band I'm sad to have missed at Truck last year. There was just so much to fit in and sacrifices are just part and parcel of trying to navigate a festival. It goes without saying I will not be missing out on the opportunity to see them here at Wood this year. Grief-wave is what their Facebook claims as their genre so this will be something very different to the more general americana offerings on the line-up.

Flights of Helios really do take you high up into the atmosphere with their post-progressive psychedelic drone pop. Had I seen them at Truck I have no doubt I'd have been raving about them from last July until now but with how I'm (happily) drowning in so much new music, I have neglected to go back and feature the band on the blog. My bad *slaps own face again*! I shall rectify this with the coming Wood review of course. Just listen to this, though. It is mesmerizing. This will sit perfectly with the likes of fellow progressive band Syd Arthur. Their sound takes in so much from Sigur Ros (yes, I am still on a high from that gig in March) to Enya via Talking Heads, Arcade Fire and more. Moreover, Flights of Helios prove how progressive music is completely ALIVE on the contemporary scene!

KATY ROSE & THE CAVALRY PARADE

From just the snippets I've heard and seen thus far, I must admit Katy Rose & The Cavalry Parade is near the top of my list of MUST sees at Wood. Head to the Reverbnation page >>here<< and just feast your ears (that's a thing, right? If it isn't then it should be!) on the likes of the haunting yet so so stunning Indelible Ink (the title track of her last album available below via Katy's Soundcloud page). Those vocals melt me each time I listen to it. 

Katy has been rather busy over the last 10 years. Under the name KTB she's released three albums to critical acclaim, toured the UK folk circuit and supported the likes of Willy Mason and Karine Polwart to name just two. The rootsy folk nature of a musical collective comes into play by way of the Cavalry Parade. This includes an array of talented musicians varying from 1 to 10 (wow, that will sound out of this world!) including multi-instrumentalists Phill Ward, Julia Higgins and Joe Bennett (Mr Joe gets around a fair bit, Co-Pilgrim, The Dreaming Spires and The Cavalry Parade, you busy boy Mr Joe - good work man!). At this stage I can only use imagination to contemplate the heavenly dimensions Katy will take us with her beautiful music when played live. Excited doesn't even come close to describe my anticipation at how much higher she'll take us with assistance from her Cavalry. This is not a Parade to miss!

REICHENBACH FALLS

I featured the awesome EP I'll Never Go Anywhere Without Her Now from Reichenbach Falls as part of the blogcast on Band of Badgers Presents...#12, so I'm uber-excited to be getting to see these stunning tunes played live next month. I have no doubts of any kind that the super talented Abe Davies & Co will use their marvelous musical skills and render the tranquility of the actual Reichenbach Falls for us. This is a festival of music AND nature after all so this will be doubly appropriate come this set.

THE CEDARS

I did feature a little about this brilliant UK americana band on my most recent music sharing post (>>here<<) so I won't waffle too much. I just wanted to feature them again as The Cedars are one of the bands right at the top and who I'm super excited about seeing. Like I mentioned in that last post, when a UK band take the deep-set alternative country sound and make it completely their own, they need to be applauded. Heck, they deserve a standing ovation in my opinion. Make sure you go buy their recently released album Little Copper Still. Now please.

JACKIE OATES

It will be a treat to get to see Jackie Oates again for the first time since I saw her twice in 2011. First she was supporting on one of the numerous legs of Seth Lakeman's seemingly endless tour (keep going Seth because I get more chance of seeing you as you keep on touring - he's back on the road in the UK in about 3 weeks). Later that year she appeared at Beautiful Days Festival. It comes as no surprise she's been receiving more and more attention and gathering more acclaim as the years pass because she weaves such marvelous magical musical stories that completely captivate you.

As an accomplished singer and fiddle player, Jackie's beautiful, flawless and at times haunting (in a give you mega goosebumps kind of way) vocals have established her at the forefront of the recent English folk revival. Checking out the latest from her Soundcloud I've been freshly WOW'd by some absolutely stunning Bob Dylan covers she has recorded. As a big Bob fan, these are just fantastic and I highly recommend you check them out. Even if you're not so much a Dylan fan. You will love these versions of the songs. 

 
JACK DAY

There are so many golden things to note about singer-songwriter Jack Day. For starters, his superb and original music slowly reveals a deep, mature soul. There's a uniqueness that echoes the greatness of Bob Dylan, Lou Reed and Christy Moore or a more contemporary comparison would perhaps be Willy Mason. There's no mimicry here though, trust me. What is further striking is that for his relative youth he already writes and plays at a level so accomplished, it would take most musicians an entire lifetime to reach. 

Whether it is through the powerful and heartfelt piano-led No One Moves Like You, the lamenting guitar-led Isn't It Strange or the likes of Shadows In The Sun and I Often Think Of You, Jack opens himself up and let's you get right inside his mind. I wholeheartedly agree with Allan Jones of Uncut magazine because with such exceptional talent as this he is '..definitely one to watch out for'. Jack Day is going big places! I am stoked I get to see him play at this more intimate affair before he packs out venues in the years to come. And with guitar playing like that on >>this video<< for Birdsong, recorded for Songs From The Shed, I'm thinking Jack could provide green power for the entire weekend.

THE ARLENES

WOW! I've been tweeting bits here and there as I've been checking out these artists and bands and I have found myself WOWing a heck of a lot. None more so than when I watched a YouTube video from The Arlenes for Lonely Won't Leave Me Alone. Goosebumps galore. Even after the song had finished. I was somewhere out in deep space I was so blown away. Captivated by Stephanie's gorgeous vocals! Her voice cuts through EVERYTHING. It holds some kind of unparalleled vibration, resonating to just the right degree that stills me before I blow away into dust on a wisp of wind. Sublime!

MARY EPWORTH

Headlining the Friday night of the festival, Mary Epworth is a scoop indeed. She's been gathering rave reviews and plenty of attention following the release of her critically acclaimed debut album Dream Life last year. An interesting blend of 1960s West Coast psychedelia with gospel and dream pop combine to produce a rather sensational sound. It is big. It is loud. It is tremendous and triumphant! Mary is another one on the line-up who is linked in with the whole progressive part of the musical spectrum, albeit in a different kind of direction compared to Flights of Helios and Syd Arthur. Her set will be one of the top highlights!

 

THE WOOD BROTHERS

It seems wholly fitting and ironically appropriate that highly regarded US duo The Wood Brothers are appearing at a festival bearing their good name. Taking the music they loved as kids - blues, folk and US roots -adding their own original evocative sound and mixing it all together with some hallowed heavenly harmonies, they are proving great things come to those who wait. They have both been heavily involved in separate musical projects but after 15 years they decided to fuse together for this current venture.

The brothers are performing at Wood as part of their European tour and judging by a few videos I've seen alone, this set will be something special. Chris and Oliver have such a rich blend of influences and have been perfecting their skills so much over the years they are masters of their art.

SYD ARTHUR

Featured now multiple times on this blog, whether it's via the review of debut album On An On I wrote almost a year ago (you can read that >>here<<) or the last few singles they have released off that album, Syd Arthur are a force to be reckoned with. Having been unable to get to one of their nearby gigs on the tours last year I may have expressed my excitement a little too loudly when I read they were to play at Wood.

Their sound is wonderfully progressive and it offers music fans something extraordinary. With the whole feel of Wood Festival being something akin to a bygone era, Syd Arthur will provide that direct link to the past (by way of a time portal or some such). They excel at what they do with their music, managing to transport you back through time. They don't stop there, however and they certainly do not mimic the psychedelia of the times they recreate before your ears. Their flare of originality is so bright it is blinding. Within the same instant as taking you back in time they will bring you crashing back into the 21st century, proving they are masters at work in creating a fresh contemporary subset of this genre.

THE BOSS AT WOOD: 

CLUBHOUSE RECORDS PRESENTS...

NEBRASKA: A LIVE TRIBUTE

This little beauty of an event (well actually it's going to be a rather big beauty) will prove to be another magnificent and special part of the festival weekend. To mark the 30th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen's album Nebraska, Clubhouse Records gathered together a group of musicians at The Betsey Trotwood pub in London to pay tribute to this fantastic album. Throughout the course of that one day, 10 bands recorded the albums 10 tracks live and straight to a 4-track cassette tape. The sessions were filmed for prosperity and all the videos are available on the Clubhouse Records YouTube channel >>here<<. 

An album of this stunning collection was produced and released as a limited edition CD which have now sadly (but quite rightly) sold out. You can still purchase a digital copy via iTunes >>here<<.

It didn't end there of course and all the bands involved performed the entire album live to a sold-out audience at The Slaughtered Lamb in London. Now, exclusively for Wood Festival the album will be recreated live once more by Trevor Moss and Hannah Lou, The Dreaming Spires, Danny The Champ, Jack Day, The Cedars, Case Hardin, The Redlands Palomino Company, Paul McClure, The Mad Staring Eyes and The Arlenes.

LET'S  SUM UP & GET THOSE TICKETS!

Naturally I can't feature something about all the artists on the line-up as the festival will have come and gone by the time I've finished. And while all of them are worthy of a special mention I must single out those like The Dreaming Spires, Sally Archer, Band of Hope, Danny And The Champions, Trevor Moss and Hannah Lou and Paul McClure, all of whom I am eager and excited to see.

Photo by Sterling Munksgard taken from Wood Bros Fbook

So, after reading this rather in-depth preview/feature of what promises to be one of the top highlights of your musical summer, what are you waiting for folks? It is only a mere 3 weeks away! Quite probably less depending on when you're actually reading this. So get clicking, get moving, get listing all those camping necessities you're going to need for your little adventure into the Wood! Don't forget this is no ordinary musical adventure either. Be prepared to travel back in time and be dazzled by how close you can get to nature. This is an opportunity for you to experience just how intimate and wonderful a music festival can be. Just how it used to be done in the good old days. This is more a cohesive community of approximately 1000 revelers all coming together to celebrate the good life. I can smell the magic already.

Ticket details and links are below!

FULL LINE UP

ADAM BARNES - ART THEEFE - AUGUST LIST

BAND OF HOPE - BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN'S "NEBRASKA"

CASE HARDIN - CO-PILGRIM

DANNY AND THE CHAMPIONS - DUSTIN BENTALL & KENDALL CARSON

EDD KEENE - FLIGHTS OF HELIOS - HOUSE OF HATS

JACK CADE & THE EVERYDAY SINNERS - JACK DAY - JACKIE OATES

JALI FILY CISSOKHO - JESS HALL - JESS ROBERTS & THE SILVER RAYS
JULIE HAWK - KATY ROSE & THE CAVALRY PARADE
LA MORT SUBITE - LIGERS - LIZ LAWRENCE
MAD STARING EYES - MARCUS CORBETT - MARY EPWORTH
MEGAN HENWOOD - MILKY MOON
NATUREBOY - NICK COPE
OLIVER WILDE - OWEN TROMANS - OXFORD UKELELES
PAPER AEROPLANES - PAUL MCLURE
RAINBOW RESERVOIR - RALFE BAND - REDLANDS PALOMINO
REICHENBACH FALLS - RYE WOLFE
SALLY ARCHER - SYD ARTHUR
THE ARLENES - THE CEDARS - THE DREAMING SPIRES
THE WOOD BROTHERS - TREVOR MOSS AND HANNAH LOU
UNTIL THE BIRD - WASHINGTON IRVING
 

Tickets are very reasonably priced considering this is a 3 day event. Click >>here<< to BUY NOW!
ADULT WEEKEND TICKET: £75
TEEN TICKET (AGES 13-17): £65
CHILD (12 & UNDER): FREE
*Under 15s MUST be accompanied by a paying adult over 21*

CAR PARKING: £10 - As mentioned, this charge varies depending upon vehicle occupancy, as part of Wood's environment commitment. For example, if the vehicle has one occupant you will have to pay a further £5; if it has 3 or more, you will receive a £5 refund.

CAMPER VAN: £40

What others say:

“an incredibly magical, inspirational and beautiful place, filled with great music, plenty to do and an atmosphere you could never create with bigger, more commercial festivals.”
Flying With Anna

“this is the greenest festival we’ve ever been to, and that’s some achievement. Music wise Wood’s organisers seem to have pretty much hit the nail on the head too… an eclectic and upbeat lineup of artists which for the most part seem to appeal to both the adults and kids.”
More Than The Music

“Wood Festival was like those days you dream of… breezy sunshine, children running through the grass, plenty of good music. From the workshops to the music acts everything was timed to fit together and allow for maximum participation without boredom.”

http://www.woodfestival.com

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2012 MUSIC OVERVIEW: A REVIEW PART I - TOP ALBUMS

I did it!! Last January when I set out to write this blog it was my intention to keep going for a whole year. Success. Things have just progressed much further and faster than I thought possible to be honest. I'm thrilled I'm getting such promising daily traffic although it is ever the intention and hope to smash all records and get promoting even more this year.

So...yeah. Apparently it is now 2013?! How did that happen so fast? Can anyone tell me what the heck happened to December? Hell, what the heck happened to 2012? I can still feel the heat from the friction as it sped by! As for resolutions, I'm making no strict ones as such, other than the usual. More exercise, less endulgent foods, that sort of thing. I have also signed up to Cannonball Reads 5 which you can learn more about via this link >>http://cannonballread5.wordpress.com/<<. Given my lack of time and the commitments I have I can only sign up for the quarter cannonball at 13. To accomplish, you have to write and publish a review for each book you read as part of it. So expect many more book reviews on the blog over the coming year as well as loads more music I'll be sharing via reviews, updates and the blogcasts. I'd love to do the full challenge and I'm hoping I can upgrade to 26 but we shall have to see.

It's a shame I just finished the third Game of Thrones book, A Storm of Swords because it has been the pure embodiment of the term 'page turner', let me tell you! There's so much I need to discuss with people about how awesome that book is but I cannot because it will spoil what is undoubtedly coming up in season three of the TV show this year. I've been told by several other people (all of them fans of the books) that book 4, A Feast for Crows is a somewhat slow and tough read in comparison. The one after, and most recent, is back on form so all can be forgiven. After such an amazing feat with Storm of Swords I'm not surprised #4 was a disappointment. Martin exhausted all the greatness in that book that he could spare at that time. My eyes are still befuzzled I read all 1000+ pages so fast.

GET ON WITH THE POST ALREADY...

When I started picking out bits and pieces for this post, more and more bits and pieces presented themselves. It was kind of like a bits and pieces snowball that started rolling with a tiny stone to create a thunderous avalanche. It is remarkably difficult to summarize a whole year of music that has really stood out above so much else. Especially with so much of this being fantastic in its own right. As there has been so much and I've taken so very long to get words on the screen (put words down doesn't look right in this digital blog writing on a laptop age) I've split the post into 2 parts. While the below (and next post) represents much that left a huge impression there are going to be bands, solo artists, albums, songs and videos that I neglect to mention. This is not only due to time and space (woohoo - I have a TARDIS shaped mug now by the way folks - no, it is not smaller on the outside but it is fab!) but also my rather faulty (at times) memory.

ALBUMS OF THE YEAR

As seems typical I was intending to do this as a proper countdown. Top 10 or 5 perhaps but it is just too damn hard to really choose them in any such ordering. These albums have all touched me somehow and I enjoy them for many different reasons. All the emotions attached or reasons for liking them cannot easily be converted into a score to label any particular one a winner, or as the number one of the lot. Therefore, as this is my post I'm satisfied to simply list them. So, in no particular order then, my top albums of 2012 are:

#1 Valtari by Sigur Ros

I played a song from this album on my first Band of Badgers Presents...Something Else show and for very good reason. I rarely go a whole week without listening to it in full at least once. And usually more than that. Released in May, it marks the Icelandic band's sixth studio album. Keeping things in the family, the album cover is by Jónsi's sisters, Lija and Inga Birgisdóttir.

For me the album plays out like a story of sorts. It feels like a concept record even though each song is distinct and special in its own way. What I love most about all of this band's work is how it transcends the usual boundaries. If I've had a particularly bad day I can play this while sitting in total darkness with the heating on. It will almost induce some form of stasis perhaps. It is perfect to meditate to. It makes a superb soundtrack for most reads. Overall, it is a beautiful piece of work from a talented group of very interesting musicians. Expect plenty of excitement from me over the next few months as I'll be seeing Sigur Ros live in March. Excited muchly! Visit the band's website at http://www.sigur-ros.co.uk/

#2 They May Put Land Between Us by Joyce The Librarian

This one I received as part of a review pack but sadly, I just did not have time to write up any review for it in time for the release. I did manage to review the single released prior to the album launch however. Follow Me I'm Right Behind You encompasses much that the album has to offer so is a perfect way to get a feel for the delicate grace the album presents on the whole.

I did mention the album a fair bit at the time and tweeted loads about how wonderful it is. The cello plays a prominent part which entices me in deep, especially on Turn Yourself In. Add to this some ethereal harmonies by way of aaah aaaaah's on Over Dinmore that have you swaying from side to side and fully immersed in this luscious library. It is a contemplative and deep song. Commanding and yet so delicate with it. There's much to lap up here and I imagine they put on one heck of a live performance. I hope I get chance to see them sometime soon. Visit the band's website at http://www.joycethelibrarian.net/

#3 The Water's Edge by Luke Ritchie

This was the first album I reviewed and I wouldn't have even heard of Luke had it not been for my interest in a TV comedy programme his sister stars in, Fresh Meat. Charlotte tweeted a few videos of her providing backing vocals for a gig Luke did at Bush Hall. Watching those was enough to get me looking up more from this wonderful singer-songwriter. I bought the album more or less straight away and it featured on my personal playlist for quite some time. 

Notable sensational tunes on the record include opening track Lighthouse, which really is just something else; Off Your Guard which conjures up such a depth of emotion and has one of the most beautiful yet relatively simple melodies I've heard; Northern Lights goes further with a serenely sublime string arrangement that wraps you up warm before Luke's soft vocals buffer you gently to farthest north under the magical aurora; finally Right Then and There is, for me, the most poignant. The gentle and faultless harmonies are haunting yet beautiful encouraging me to make up a word in the review: baunting. The Water's Edge is an inspired and accomplished debut from someone who is going to be around for many years to come. Visit http://lukeritchie.co.uk/ for lots more information about Luke.

#4 Brothers In Brooklyn by The Dreaming Spires

Although only a debut, The Dreaming Spires brothers Robin and Joe Bennett have been heavily involved in music all their lives. Having played previously with Goldrush and Danny & the Champions of the World and being big fans of bands like The Byrds and Teenage Fan Club, these influences are evident throughout. Don't be mistaken however because these guys have a universe-sized amount of unique and original input they have poured into Brothers In Brooklyn. Their hearts and souls are present, intertwined with their wealth of experience leading me to describe it in my review as an album with a powerful soul. After seeing them perform twice this year I can confirm the quality is of the highest calibre. This is British americana at its best and if you don't own this album you should rectify this folly immediately.

Visit the band's website at http://www.thedreamingspires.co.uk/

 #5 On An On by Syd Arthur

An album from a band such as this has been a long time coming. It is special, unique and amazing. Time travel wrapped up in music that still retains something as distinct and original is no easy thing but Syd Arthur succeed with a near genius debut. Heck, what am I on about? It is genius. Psychedelic sounds will draw you in before something grabs on and sucks you through the portal. That's it then! You will be on a magical music trip of tremendous splendour. The momentous journey culminates in the nine minute stonker that is Paradise Lost. Reminiscent of something like Led Zeppelin's No Quarter in scope it nevertheless leaves you in no doubt of its own originality.

#6 Do We Burn The Boats? by Ben Glover

Ben's third album in as many years oozes a charm, quality and confidence and it is clear his sound has been found. That isn't to say his previous efforts, The Week The Clocks Changed (The Ballad of Carla Boone from even this early a work is a phenomenal song in my opinion), Through the Noise Through the Night and Before the Birds are not worthy because having listened to them all I can say with confidence that they truly are. Following my review of this latest album, Ben contacted me personally and kindly sent me his previous albums. I'm not going to deny that with finances being on the tight side it would have taken me a fair while to be able purchase them myself so I was and remain sincerely grateful to him for this. Like with all artists (and bands) what came before all forms a learning curve to where artists want to be now, today. The future is the next project always in sight but what counts most of all is what is being done today in their creative lives. Do We Burn The Boats is an accomplished record serving to solidify Ben's abilities and achievements. There really is no slacking here and every song has an important part to play.

Visit Ben's website at http://www.benglover.co.uk

#7 Gathered by Nick Burbridge and Tim Cotterill

I know Nick's music work more so from McDermott's 2 Hours Vs The Levellers. I count myself fortunate I got to see him with McDermott's at what was my first ever Levellers gig back in 2005 at the Coal Exchange in Cardiff. We arrived early, were in a rather excited state and I was standing at the bar waiting to get a pint when the distinct fiddle intro of Song Of A Leveller began playing. I'd been served after what had felt like a million years waiting but I lost several large gulps of beer to the floor as I dashed back to where my friend was. What a night! Happy music memories and getting a lift back afterwards with Russ & Marie. Russ looked strikingly like Ozzy Osbourne's by then 'famous' (or rather, just well-known) son, Jack. We'd never met them before but such is the cameraderie of the Levellers fanbase. It is a community and society of sorts. And one you want to be a part of as every year at Beautiful Days emphasizes.

Anyway, I'm rambling (must be Tuesday - in fact it's a Thursday today)...I contacted Nick earlier in 2012 asking if I could play one of his songs on my podcast, which I'd only just started at the time. He replied with a yes and would I like a copy of his new album Gathered. Needless to say I didn't need to think about it and snapped up the chance to get a copy directly from the master himself. The album is packed with his trademark honesty wrapped up in inspirational multi-layered musical poetry. These are songs that mean something. They have real depth and demonstrate why Nick Burbridge is one of the UK's, even the world's, greatest artistic talents! Visit Nick's website at http://www.burbridgearts.org/

#8 Shallow Bed by Dry The River

Anyone who has kept up with both the podcasts or the blog will be fully aware of my Dry The River woes. I booked tickets for a Cambridge show months in advance but then couldn't afford to get to Cambridge when the gig came around. Given the awesomeness of the band and how much their popularity has swelled to near epic proportions I am still mopping up the tears. I only hope I'm able to slip into a gig at some point this year before they make it to the kind of status Mumford & Sons now enjoy. If that happens, it is unlikely I'll get to see them at this more close and intimate kind of show.

This woe aside, the release of Shallow Bed - as great as I was expecting it to be after seeing them support Bombay Bicycle Club in 2011 - really did blow me to Timbuktu with its sheer force of grandeur! Sounding notably different to Fleet Foxes, they nevertheless hit the very spot that US band did when I first saw them play on Later With Jools Holland years before, and then subsequently the million or so times I played their debut album back to back. When a band, or more so an album from a band can do that each time you play it and it never wears thin, never gets tired, then you know it is something special. It is something unique as is Shallow Bed. Every milisecond of every song bleeds itself into your very soul. It's like there's some kind of musical osmosis whereby the tremendous talents of these gifted musicians seeps through the skin as the tension and shitness from the mundanity of this forced capitalist nightmare we are forced to live through pours out. Apologies, getting rather serious there but it is albums such as this that really make a difference to me. They make me feel connected to something greater and more profound than everyday nonsense ever can. There's not a weak or poor song on this album! I best not even get started on the closing track Lion's Den because that mammoth-sized marvelousness deserves its very own full length blog post come essay. Amazing! So yes, as you can maybe tell, I really rather dig this album. This makes it a bit more understandable as to why I am still crying now over not getting to that gig in October. *sniffles*

Visit the band's website at http://www.drytheriver.net/

En fin

Okay, okay, okay! I better stop there or I will be listing and writing about loads more! Other top albums of the year though - just to get them a mention in - are The Innocent Left from Katriona Gilmore & Jamie Roberts, Hidden People from Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman, Static On The Airwaves from The Levellers, The Ragged Rhythm of Rain from Under A Banner, Live At Blue Rock from Mary Gauthier, The Nebraska Sessions which was a tribute album from Clubhouse Records, More Than Boys from Luke Jackson, From The Lowlands from Tom McRae, Open The Door from Andrew Page, One Dress from Brooke Sharkey, Wide-Eyed Crossing from Michele Stodart, Trippin' The Light from Julie Lamb....as you can tell, even this is not an exhaustive list but I simply must move on now....Apologies to any I've missed out but there are countless more that have inspired me and made an impact.

I would share my thoughts on all the above here if I could but then it would be 2014 by the time I'd finished and I've still got to get on with the next part and all the other stuff from 2012 that needs to be mentioned!

DISAPPOINTMENTS

You will know I'm not the type to use any overt negative criticism and I'll maintain that here. I merely wished to express my disappointment with the latest offerings from three bands who, not only should know better but who should have done better.

1. Babel by Mumford & Sons - There is still time for this one to grow on me, admittedly. I just don't have the time available these days to spend letting that happen though. I've not written off Babel completely just yet but I am disappointed it didn't grab a hold of me and whisk me off on the kind of musical journey Sigh No More did. That was always going to be a hard record to follow up on but Mumford are a band I wasn't doubting for a second. Now I'm not so sure.
2. Battle Born by The Killers - I don't think too many fans were very hot about Sawdust when the band released it as an album of B-sides and covers. While I admit it never burst on to any top albums list of my own around the time, it is one that grew on me. I actually really enjoy listening to it several years later. Battle Born I didn't even manage to get all the way through a first listen. I made it quite far but as you know I'm always going on about a lack of time so I just had to stop. It wasn't doing a thing for me. As much as I was kind of expecting this to be the case, I was nevertheless saddened. I so wanted this to be an album that saw The Killers returning to the form of Sam's Town. 
3. North by Matchbox Twenty - I haven't really kept fully up to date with these guys or what they have produced since 2002's More Than You Think You Are, which I thought was a bit of a way to returning to the more rockier sound of the smashing 1996 debut, Yourself Or Someone Like You. It didn't quite have hit after hit but it was very close. Even though all this time has passed and another album was put out in 2007 (Exile On Mainstream, albeit a compilation record), for some reason I was getting my hopes up with the release date of North fast approaching. Again, a few repeated listens may well change my mind but even that is stretching hope a little too far. We'll see. First off, and to be fair I have listened a couple of times, it has not impressed me in the slightest.

By the way, I have not forgotten how to record the podcast and yes it has been a considerable amount of time since #11, which I agree is totally unacceptable. I have set myself a little schedule however so I'll bring in another resolution type thing to stick as closely to that as I possibly can in order to get a show out every fortnight. Wish me luck. #12 should be with you by next weekend as a podcast but the blogcast may follow a week later. Coming up in Part II of the overview/review of 2012 will be the gigs and live music that really wowed me into wowsville as well as a number of bands, artists and whatnot that I feel privileged to have come across, been introduced to and some I've even got to know on a kind of personal level. Until next time I hope your new year has started brilliantly. May it continue thus.

JUMP STRAIGHT TO THE OTHER PARTS OF MY 2012 OVERVIEW/REVIEW:

PART II  >>here<<
PART III >>here<<
PART IV >>here<<

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BAND OF BADGERS PRESENTS...#11

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I know this one has been published and up for  weeks by now, but I simply couldn't withhold it having completed the recording and mixing. Share, share, share. That is what it's all about and there are the two amazing and fantastic new singles from Derbyshire's indie-rock ravers Whitemoor and Oxford americana maestros The Dreaming Spires, which I really wanted to play and get out there. Thank you if you have already had yourself a listen or download and thank you doubly for coming back for another one or even just to check out the blogcast. Finally, it is here, yes.

I must admit the weekend I spent in Oxford a few weeks back really made me realize I need to make music my life's work. The journalism, promoting and all that side of things I mean, not the music making. I don't have any talent in that respect (I will dare to admit I am seriously going to pick up and dust off the guitar I have and start learning though. Did I say dust off? I better book it in for some kind of industrial clean, it has been standing idle so long. Will probably take me an age just to tune it now. No excuses however, I'm getting right on it!). Just hanging out there and going to those two awesome gigs (The Dreaming Spires & Tom McRae) bought it home again. In fact, all gigs do really. And yet I have to turn down so many I could attend for free in London simply because of logistics and finances. I also missed my first real opportunity to see The Scholars in Birmingham thanks to this pain in the backside of a lingering cold that is inflicting so many people. My immune system is usually not too bad. It's all about the fruit and veg. Just not in this particular case, I guess. The guys even ended up headlining that night due to the main band pulling out. Well done to them and please do go grab yourself a FREE DOWNLOAD of the awesome alternate version of their latest single Wired, it is a treat! More gigs are to be announced soon and nothing is going to prevent me getting to one now I can assure you!

I was recently contacted by New Music Connection's very lovely Stephanie Wright to ask if I'd like a press pass to the TuneBreaker - New Music Connection Awards Launch Party so I could do a little bit of a write up for the event. Gutted, I had to decline such an amazing opportunity yet again. Mix of things, namely lack of annual leave from the day job and complete lack of funds. This doesn't stop me championing the event or put a dampener on such an awesome reason to party. Indeed, the two entities have recently formed a partnership that is only set to strengthen the masses of independent talent out there who struggle to make it via the regular industry channels. In fact, this way, although tough itself is a much better way for them to make it. They can do it their own way without the risk of having to sell out or being sold out by those in who they place their trust along the way. TuneBreaker and New Music Connection have the artist in mind, their integrity and passions and they will strive to allow artists to showcase their own unique styles and talents. Just the way it should be.

All you unsigned and independent artists wherever you are in the UK & Ireland need to get registering to take part in the TuneBreaker & New Music Connection Awards. The voting, as such, runs from now until February and there are two fantastic awards up for grabs. The first will be the award for the act at the top of the charts come the closing date, who will win £1000 in addition to other amazing opportunities. 

The second is the TuneBreaker & NMC Award as voted by a panel for the most "promising" act it sees in the TuneBreaker Live Chart(TM). Many factors will be taken into account in selecting the recipient including songwriting, music, videos,  and well, pretty much everything there is to do with the whole creative and performance process so come on, get yourselves signed up if you want a chance at winning. I know there are so many of you out there more than worthy at bagging first place! Click >>here<< to find out all the info on how you go about entering and if you're not already a part of this excellent online music community get yourself signed up - it is totally FREE! It is a global community so there is a potential global fanbase you will be reaching too.

The launch party was held at The Good Ship in Kilburn on Tuesday 27th November and would have been one heck of a fantastic night celebrating some of the best independent live music. While you're reading this do check out the bands and artists who performed their musical magic at the event: The Vinyls, Sebastian Blake, Ali Ingle & Hollie Trevis. I am more than certain some, if indeed not all, of these talented folk will crop up in one of my playlists over the coming months. I'm currently thoroughly enjoying Ali Ingle's EP, The Man and the Monster. Have a listen to the opening track Something About Jorj below.

The greatness does not stop there either! There is a 2013 tour in the pipeline too. Kicking off in March next year you can be a part of it by simply registering your act with tunebreaker.com and newmusicconnection.co.uk and sharing your hard work. It is 100% totally and completely FREE to join up so make sure you get sharing links to your music, YouTube videos and any gigs you have coming up wherever they might be. They would love to come along to check you out and support. Wishing everyone taking part and who is involved with this entire venture all the very best. I'm just sorry I could not have been there for it myself. *slaps self* Next time!

Righty-ho then, on with the blogcast!

The Playlist:

1. High Lights - Whitemoor **NEW SINGLE**
2. Just Can't Keep This Feeling In - The Dreaming Spires **NEW SINGLE**
3. Strangers We Meet - The Black Feathers
4. What It Takes - Russell Toomey
5. The Man Who Had Everything - Scott Matthews
6. On This Great Day - Andy Ruddy
7. Threadbare - Everything On Red
8. To Make You Proud - Page 44
9. No Justice, Just Us - Go.Fly.Win
10. His Voice - Brooke Sharkey

Whitemoor

The awesome bunch of guys from Derby who make up indie-rock band Whitemoor certainly know how to push the right buttons and tease their constantly growing fanbase with this stupendously superific new single, High Lights. It is taken from their second album, Horizons which is due to follow in the lofty footsteps of their self-titled debut. Rather than repeat myself (yes, okay you at the back again - I know I sometimes repeat anyway but shush please), click >>here<< to read my review of High Lights.

While mentioning this terrific band though I will request/instruct/command* (*delete as appropriate as long as it is only the first word) you to go and do yourselves a favour by purchasing that first album. It is a stonker that will have you bopping and singing along like a loon. A happy loon however, so it's all okay! With 11 tantalising tracks that are pure indie rock at its very best you will thank me for demanding you buy it. I cannot choose favourites when albums are this good but With Landscapes does always jump out at me when it plays. Strike that! They all do to be fair. These guys are definitely one of those bands where you'll say, 'Ah, this one and this one are my faves....,' before continuing, '...ah, hang on a sec....actually, that one and this one are too....oh and this one and that one.' So don't be a fool any longer and get on the Whitemoor train before those ticket prices rise through the roof. If you're new to them too, remember where you heard them first and who advised you. No, I don't get a cut but I absolutely love the band and their music so if you get chatting to them on Twitter or via Facebook feel free to mention yours truly in passing.

The Dreaming Spires

What a year it has been for the brothers Bennett! Their debut album Brothers in Brooklyn has been gathering lots of very well deserved hype throughout the music journalism world, which is fantastic news. I reviewed it shortly after its release back in June and to save you scrolling through the menus you can simply click >>here<< to read my thoughts on it. You see how nice I am to you lovely folks? It is a smashing debut marinated in the americana tradition and although there are very heavy influences that come through from the likes of The Byrds and Teenage Fanclub (indeed, as mentioned in opening track Singing Sin City) The Spires use their influences very wisely. They utilise them to perfection to be honest.

This comes through even more so on the stage and I've been fortunate enough to see them play twice this year now. First at their very own Truck Festival back in July. Okay, so it's no longer their's, strictly speaking but it is clear they still play a big part in the event (and quite rightly so). That half hour set was no where near long enough but I was uber excited to get to see  a full set at their homecoming Oxford gig at the Bullingdon Arms a few Saturdays ago. What a special evening it was too for their homecoming date. It was awesome to hear them perform every song from the album. I was looking forward to a few of the quieter numbers just because I hadn't heard them live and I was not disappointed. Robin delivered the vocals beautifully but I hadn't expected anything less. Laughing and Dancing, Woman That You Are and the brief but sublime The Dream Inspires were flawless.



The more upbeat songs were delivered with a boundless energy such as this latest single to be released, Just Can't Keep This Feeling In, Everything All The Time and what is one of my top favourites Look At The Stars (They're Really Out Tonight). It is just so grand sounding, and live they really pull no punches. The life they imbue it with is just unstoppable. Then there's the solidness of the hook-laden chorus on Singing Sin City. The music may not lend itself to moshing but there were many in the audience that night bopping up and down to the ravishing rhythms pouring out from the stage. We were also treated to a few other songs including their version of Bruce Springsteen's Atlantic City. Recently recorded for Clubhouse Records' Nebraska tribute album, it was performed with such intensity every single one of the crowd couldn't help but be transfixed. With so many bands and artists out there to see and such limited funds, it is not always easy to get to one gig but for The Dreaming Spires I'll get where I can when I can, even if it means seeing them several times throughout the year. They put on a show that is warm and inviting. You cannot help but just feel like a big part of an extended family of fans.

On another note but tied in, Nebraska Sessions is now available digitally via iTunes >>here<<. It is well worth parting with a little bit of cash for this celebratory album featuring a host of hugely talented independent artists. You can also read more about the album and the artists involved >>here<<.

The Black Feathers

WOW! Yes folks, another gobsmackingly gobsmacking duo that have the WOW factor in abundance. The ticklishly tantalizing sounds of The Black Feathers will put you in a trance and leave you begging for more! They come together so perfectly and harmoniously and are on my list of people I cannot wait to see play live. Yes, there are lots on that list I know but these are right up at the top. I get my wish granted too, in February next year and I'm grateful I don't have to spend a fortune on fuel to get there, as it is in a neighbouring town that is actually within the county I live in. Bonus!

They are hard at work on what will be their debut 5 track EP, due out early next year. In the meantime they have a 4 track EP of demos that are less demos and more crisp and pristine tracks. Each and every one of them demonstrate why The Black Feathers are going to keep on climbing up to become very well known on the music circuit. Just get listening. They are sublime and flawless. I am counting down the seconds to February for what will be one of the gigs of the year for me. I feel confident in making such a claim based purely on these demos and a couple of videos I've seen. Make sure you visit their own website for lots more.

Andy Ruddy

Now, as you may be aware (and for those of you who aren't, well you're about to become aware) - I discovered the terrific talent of Bradford singer-songwriter Andy Ruddy via the 'sponsored' advertisements on Facebook. So, they do work and they do, at times, suggest some truly amazing stuff. This is one of those times because, well, you will have heard for yourself and if not then take a listen, check out his page(s) and get liking. There are downloads a-plenty available at his Soundcloud page, which you can access by clicking on these embedded players.

In fact, there are so many awesome tunes on his soundcloud page I'm really hoping there is an album on the cards because it will definitely be one that will be joining my collection. The sooner the better too! Andy's list of influences makes interesting reading too. Although his own songs have that all-important and necessary mark of distinct originality (and star quality to be fair), I can understand how those influences have been utilized for him to produce such excellence. From Neil Finn and Dan Wilson to Aqualung and Oasis, it still cannot be ignored how Andy brings that touch of something deeply personal to his work. When all songs are so damn good it gets very difficult to pick out any stand outs. They ALL stand out as excellent. I do really enjoy the piano version of My Energy (above) and Only Now is beautiful. But then, I chose On This Great Day to play on the podcast too for the reason I think it has such a life to it and it sums up Andy's style just perfectly. Then there's the contrast which demonstrates his versatility with Fly By Night, you really shouldn't miss.  If you enjoy these then get checking out more and drop him some feedback.

Everything On Red

This northern rock band produce a sound that is immediately infectious! It isn't only infectious but highly contagious too. It may be necessary to request scientists get working on a vaccine to contain it before it threatens to spread across the UK before taking on the world and eradicating all other forms of contemporary rock music. It is great stuff and if other alternative rock bands aren't careful and don't step up to the mark themselves then they only have themselves to blame when Everything On Red leave their mark - which yes, is red - on every corner of Rockdom.

The band's wide range of influences can be heard clearly in their banging tunes. From punk rock to power pop they combine crunching guitars, sweeping synths and heartfelt vocals to create a vibrant, rich and diverse sound. What I think works really well too, is how each of the three members contribute their own individual songs to the band, sharing vocal duties. This means you really do get something different as opposed to having just the one vocalist, as is traditional. Not that there's anything wrong with the traditional of course but, you know, it's always nice to have something different. You can buy a copy of their latest release, Songs For Sirens by visiting the store on their Facebook page .

Page 44

Now these guys are from Birmingham so I demand you go and get yourself a copy of their smashing EP Leave The Last Man Behind right NOW. DO NOT pass GO & DO NOT collect £200. Okay, you can collect the £200 but make sure you take out the £2.70 for this excellent EP. You can grab it via iTunes for one and why would you not part with just £2.70 for the 5 fantastic tracks it will get you. One of them, Watch Me Fade features twice but its second time is a live version recorded at the London Roundhouse. It closes the little collection in perfect style and will whet your appetites for seeing the band live when they head out for shows again next year. 

They play one awesome set, something you can be assured of because they didn't get hand-picked to support The All American Rejects for nothing, you know! They also opened the second stage at Download Festival, I must add! The band are currently in prolific practice mode for their headlining closing show of the year at The Birmingham Ballroom (Other Room) on Saturday 15th December. Tickets are £7 and what a rocktastically rockarific (I really shouldn't should I?) night of quality banging alternative rock music it is going to be. If you're a Birmingham resident then get your tickets >>here<< and get along to support local live music. When it comes in such a quality package as Page 44 you really should not be missing out. These guys are growing and they are going to be big!

Go.Fly.Win

It seems like there is just lashing after lashing of FREE music this time round. All of the songs from this alternative rock band are available for FREE via their bandcamp page >>here<<. Make sure you drop by and sample some and then of course download for yourself. Enjoy, share and let's get a mass download going on. It's great stuff and you can hear the passion they will bring to their live shows as it smashes through the music with full force.

Brooke Sharkey

Independent in all senses of the word and with its 5th December release date fast approaching there's no stopping these wondrous gypsy and blues inspired folk ballads from stunning music lovers. With her unique vocal sound reaching you in a mix of both English and French, married with some brilliant and beautiful music, Brooke Sharkey should prepare for Later With Jools now because it is only a matter of time before we see her up on the box. One Dress is a stunning album destined to dazzle. There's a lovely review of it you should read >>here<<. All this clicking but it is totally worth it. Get clicking folks!

While you're in the clicking mood, click play on the video for Our Ways, above to see Brooke in action. I love, love, love her use of flipping between English and French, on this song in particular. Some of those strings sound very 1920's and so elegant how it speeds up too. It is just a wonderful piece of music. Very different to His Voice which only serves to demonstrate how diverse One Dress is, as an album. Make sure you download your FREE copy of His Voice too before you move on. Then buy the album for more greatness!

SENSATIONAL SINGLES

ARTIST: fiN

SINGLE: LIFE IS WASTED ON THE LIVING/LUCKY YOU

TRACKS: 2

WEBSITE: www.lifeiswastedontheliving.com  

RELEASED: 3^rd DECEMBER 2012

It's been a heck of a year for this 4-piece indie-rock band from Wandsworth. I wouldn't be surprised if they have to keep pinching themselves. Highlights have been the release of some truly amazing singles, not least the boisterously banging Twenty Three and ethereally electrifying Eve (I've played both these on previous podcasts). Gigs-wise they set off on the road supporting US Rock legends Incubus before being selected to open for the mountainous and magnificent Muse more recently after another band pulled out of a London show.

Determined to end the year up on a lofty high sees the release of their latest 2 track single. Pretty much everything about fiN is amazing and what helps this along is how incredibly interesting they are. They manage it once again with two songs which couldn't be more distinct to previous releases, if they each took up a banjo and started strumming. They haven't of course but what we have to enjoy are two further songs that demonstrates the phenomenal degree of talent they possess. This entertains by way of them creating, exuding and generating such a buzzing energy with everything they do that it immediately pulls you in for one amazing journey. If you're yet to sample their tunes, then get on board but make sure you're strapped in. Even if you're not secure they will take good care of you. Just get listening because you really are missing out on something spectacular.

Life Is Wasted On The Living is a perfect way to end their successful year. Its intro pulls no punches in forcefully sucking you out of the emotional vacuum of reality to deliver lyircs alerting you to be aware of what makes for an enjoyable life. They are just wonderful words with an important message given how so many people grind themselves into the ground. Folk get caught up in the whole rat race, wanting what someone else tells them they should because it's what is 'in' and so-and-so has it. All the while such people are missing the real point and taking for granted those things that are there to make them happy. It sounds hugely philosophical but it's really quite simple and dressed up in such great musical attire, you'll be singing along to the words after just one listen. A hit at their live shows, it's easy to understand why because it is one that will unite the audience in a big sing and dance/mosh along. 'Now, what are you waiting for?'

Lucky You is different yet again. The band move you along effortlessly with the musical arrangements and Luke exercises his vocal range by way of sublime sounding somersaults, with a fiNtastic falsetto that will have you hitting that <repeat track> button because you can't get enough! It wraps things up percectly and is no doubt another kick ass tune on their live set. I so need to see them and SOON please! We have to get on it and quick though because they are so bloody good I can see them selling out huge venues before long.

You can pre-order your limited edition 7" Vinyl, which includes an MP3 download from >>here<<.

Previous releases you really need to be checking out below include the delightful and largely instrumental The Artisan with the die-hard alternative rock of Rapture. The band showed a more delicate side with the very Muse-esque Everybody Dies Alone as it builds to colossal heights, gathering up some truly inspiring instrumentals. It already sounds like it is one of those well-known anthem-type songs played all the time on the radio. This was accompanied by the lovely and hook-laden It Changes Everything, which has some fiNtastic synths. Then prior to the latest, as mentioned above, came Twenty Three and Eve. All these should be available as a full album sometime early next year and I believe it is going to be released digitally following all the double singles being released throughout this year on limited edition vinyl. Such a wonderful way to sell their music, in my opinion. These guys don't just have everything, they have the universe when it comes to originality and I think even with the industry in the kind of disarray it is (same as most industries these days I suppose), there aint nothing gonna stop fiN from breaking out there and getting in everyone's faces (and ears while they're at it of course). It's one lucky world to have them to entertain it, if you ask me. There really isn't any other band out there like them so if you haven't already, get yourselves acquainted. You can interact with the cheeky chaps directly via their Twitter account @fiNuk.

ARTIST:KLAK TIK

SINGLE: REBORN

LABEL:SAFETY FIRST RECORDS
TRACKS: 1

WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/KlakTik  
RELEASED: 26^th NOVEMBER 2012

What a remarkable and beautiful song this is! Thanks once again goes to the marvelous folk at Prescription PR for sending this single my way for me to stream on the blog. I'm just sorry I couldn't have got it up sooner and before the release date. Reborn was released by Klak Tik on 26th November so I'm not too late I guess. It is just so atmospheric and listening to it I can feel the kind of cool breeze that just makes the hottest day, perfect. Or, and I know this may be an odd comparison, when you turn over a hot pillow while you're trying to get to sleep and your world feels complete at the calming coolness of the underside of it.

This is the first single to be taken from their forthcoming sophomore album, The Servants - due out next Spring. It follows hot on the heels of their 2010 acclaimed debut Must We Find a Winner, which I am yet to hear but it is the very next on my long list, I can assure you. Reborn is wonderfully written with opening lyrics that instantly grabbed my attention because of how deeply they speak to me:

I thought I knew at least,

What freedom really means

A job that I hate

Work every day

I could be wrong

The chorus is magnificent, 'Now I've finally woken up, to the beauty of the world through a love song, through a love song that I heard from the rivers and the birds,' how it captures the reality of the powerful dream in breaking free of the drab and mundane city life. The epiphany is delivered through a rich mix of instruments (acoustic guitars, soft banjo and a brass section) providing a catchy melody that remains on the right side of ethereal, not least by the way of the gentle harmonious vocals of Søren Bonke. It's serene pace renders you instantly restful to enjoy it and get you ready for what is to come next year. Given the quality of this single I am rather excited to hear the rest of The Servants.

Recorded in a makeshift studio deep underground beneath the Parys Mountain in Wales, it seems a perfect place to have recorded a song about escaping the rat race to appreciate the countryside. The breathtaking Welsh landscape no doubt provided some important influences in the recording of the rest of the album. As I've already mentioned, I am incredibly excited indeed about hearing the end result. Now it is time for you to part with just 79 little pennies for your very own digital copy of Reborn by clicking >>here<<.

TIME FOR SOME MEATY METAL

utoXator
I've been intending to include at least a video from these punk-rock melodic maestros (in their own words) for so long I need shooting for not sharing something sooner! But hey, instead of wasting your time lining up to take turns at trying to shoot me I urge you to use your precious time more wisely and hit play on this video for utoXator's The Seas Will Rise. Go on. Do it now and enjoy this f***ing amazing tune! I cannot but use an expletive to express how loud, banging and amazing I find this band. I just love how this tune takes your scalp off with its big heavy sound and yet does it in a very smooth and painless way. More please guys. You can (and bloody well should) grab yourself a copy of the band's first EP, Stop & Listen from their Merchandise site >>here<<.

 

What I think would make one fantastic night of proper hard rock/metal music would be the awesome Lightfire and utoXator being on the bill. I sincerely hope something like this happens and soon!! Perhaps I should get arranging this although I have no idea where to start. So what, I can learn. Ooh! I'll keep you posted if I manage to get anywhere near it. In the meantime keep your eyes peeled (ears open too) for any dates utoXator announce around their local area and get along because live music is where it's at folks! Listen to Paint On Walls below. Another song that kicks your ass so hard there will be bruising. When it's this good though, bruises are totally worth it.

ALTERNATIVE COUNTRY CORNER 

The Emperors of Wyoming

It may have taken them thirty years to finally get this record off the ground but there's no stopping it rising up the ranks of alternative country and americana lists now it's finally been unleashed. Why so long? All of the friends who make up these mighty musical Emperors have been rather busy with numerous other projects. Not least, Butch Vig producing some of the most successful post-punk records of the 90's (Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins) and drumming for alternative rock band Garbage. You can read my review of The Emperors' self-titled debut album >>here<< and just hit play on this, the first video to be released for Avalanche Girl and enjoy.

ROW, ROW, ROW THAT BOAT TO ROW

Boat To Row - LOYAL LIGHT **NEW EP**

This indie-folk band wowed me at Truck Festival earlier in the year and continue to do so following the release of their latest EP, Loyal Light. Contemporary folk music has been undergoing a revival of sorts over the past decade and it just keeps going from strength to strength. This collective of highly skilled musicians and singers (from the Midlands no less) have just completed a tour supporting this release. I regret I was unable to make any of the dates near to me and so I do hope a new tour or set of dates will be announced for early in the new year. There are many places they are yet to grace with their stylish musical tones and these places will be at a loss until they play them. Loyal Light will cost you just £3.50 for 5 awesome tracks which you can check out in full below. Ode To Work A Day fits well the theme covered by the two singles I reviewed above (from fiN & Klak Tik) and while I like them all, Old Scenes is a particular favourite.

While we're hanging around in the more folky arena I'd like to mention the sublime indie alternative folk band The Epstein have announced a gig in their hometown of Oxford. Tickets are flying out so if you're nearby or can make it down I suggest you get purchasing your ticket(s), which are just £10, from >>here<<. Support for this PinDrop Mid Winter Festival comes from Wild Swim, Flights of Helios and Danny George Wilson. So, an afternoon and evening of rather splendid and top quality music for you. If only I could make it along myself. No luck with my teleportation device I'm afraid but it is being worked on. I'll try not to collapse a wormhole or create a black hole in the process but I assure you that if I do, there will be some kick-ass tunes playing as everything gets sucked in. I intend to cover more on The Epstein early next year.

Now, if only a lovely empty yellow VW campervan would just drive up and open its door for me to own it.

In Brief...

A very quick stop in Norway to just share a song from singer-songwriter gonnabe, hoola hooper wannabe Johnny Andre Nesje. I believe he began following me on Twitter so naturally I checked out his tunes. He has some fantastic stuff up on his Soundcloud page, which I advise you to check out once you've had a listen to Summertime.

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS

I have recently joined the Mixcloud army! It's a fantastic way for me to be able to bring you lots more playlists of copyrighted music I'm not able to use in my downloadable podcast. Therefore, in between the regular podcasts I'll be running a Band of Badgers Presents Something Else cloudcast. The first one is recorded and will be up soon with a blogcast to follow it. It may be a little while before I get to publish it on the blog but just check by my Mixcloud page for a listen. At this stage and to help keep me producing things as quick as I possibly can, I'm thinking the blogcasts for those cloudcasts will not be anywhere near as long as the likes of those for the podcast. I'm sure I'll pack in as much information, links and other stuff as I can though. Any regulars (I do have some don't I? Or do I scare you all off too quickly?) will know me well enough by now and thus my tendency to waffle on somewhat. Like now, in fact. 

Time to make this a wrap so I can go make an Ovaltine (with lashings of Baileys I must add) and get to bed. I am so rock and roll and cannot believe I just shared with you that I drink Ovaltine. It's not a regular thing by any means but it is the only thing with which my taste buds will allow me to consume Baileys. So it is kinda rock n roll isn't it? No? Okay, I'll work on that and come Christmas I should have a nice bottle of JD or something similar. How's that sound? 

As ever I've missed out loads of stuff I just don't have the time or space (cue Doctor Who theme) to include but I am working through the list. It grows daily and I will need to be doing this into my second century to fit everything in but I'm up for that. The next show will be a Cloudcast as I mentioned above but the podcast will be back after that with another playlist of top indie talent. Keep safe and I will try not to get sucked into George R R Martin's A Storm of Swords Part Two too badly or else another blog post this month would be unlikely. Remember folks, WINTER IS COMING! Peace.

PS - If you've managed to make it all the way down here, well done. May I ask you if you would be so kind as to vote for me in the European Podcast Awards via this wee little player? My humblest of thanks to you.