Showing posts with label RADIO. Show all posts
Showing posts with label RADIO. Show all posts

Monday, 27 May 2013

BAND OF BADGERS PRESENTS...#14



 OR

Picture taken from the band's website
It's that time again folks. Time to share the latest podcast via the regular blogcast. I've got lots of top tunes for you from some top quality talent. As mentioned at some point below, this is my current word of the moment - QUALITY! The Sun is out in a clear blue sky this Bank Holiday Monday and I'm struggling to keep my mind from descending into the dark and dank depression that is the awful return to work mindset required after 11 big fat superb stonking days off. The start of this saw me enjoying a wonderful 3 days in the south Oxfordshire countryside at Wood Festival. Time beats me as it always does or else I'd hoped to have had my review of the event up online by now. I've been caught up in a time eddy or a bubble of some sort though. I'm all over it, to use what appears to be one of those dreadful 'management speak' phrases in common use at the moment. Aren't they awful? And yet it is increasingly difficult to not slide down that slippery slope and adopt some such phrases in the day-to-day office culture.
Picture taken from Mark's Facebook page
On the OXJAM Northampton front, I have the main venue I want to host the gig at very interested offering up two provisional dates, so I will be meeting for a coffee to discuss more details and how to proceed with it. Exciting! More news when things are more certain. On the blog front, I've set up my WordPress account so am currently fine-tuning what I want the new blog to look like up on there. I also discovered as I was having a play, that it is possible to import a blog from Blogger. Thus, I hit 'import' but sadly lost all the pictures and media embedded on those posts. It's a learning curve but that only makes sense. I'll be working on it for a while to get it looking just right before launching but I will be adopting a new unique URL that you can store in your memory banks for later - www.bandofbadgerspresents.com I think this is the way forward and cannot wait to unveil it but needless to say the link isn't live just yet. I am so tired of all the technical issues with Blogger. It is most often such a painful experience to complete posts. There won't be much change in content. It will still host the blogcast for my podcasts and there will be the regular multi-music shares, reviews and time permitting some more band/artist profiles. And no, I have not forgotten nor am I neglecting the fabulous The Fireflys. That post, along with a number of others at present, is in the making.

Picture taken from the band's website
Now, without further adieu, let's get on with the show! 

THE PLAYLIST:
  1. Gladiator - Wings Of Apollo
  2. Spooks - The Scholars
  3. Last Of The Hobo Kings - Mary Gauthier
  4. Never Letting You Go - Robb Murphy
  5. Birdsong - Mark Nichols
  6. In The Wreckage - Reichenbach Falls
  7. Microlove - Summa
  8. I've Been Waiting - Lavers
  9. Bad Karma - The Como Brothers Band
  10. Hold On To Saturday - Wings Of Apollo
WINGS OF APOLLO
What a way to open up a podcast. What a way to close a podcast. Yes, I was so torn over which Wings of Apollo track I should play from their tremendous self-titled debut album, I could only settle on two. The album is available to download 100% totally FREE (click >>here<<). If you haven't snapped it up already then you best be quick off the mark now. I have my tech guys* busy locating all your IP addresses so I can send round my cat to sort you out.


Gladiator opens up my playlist as it does the album, with a nice big heavy smack of classic rock combined with incredibly smart and nifty contemporary elements. And some impressive guitar riffs that will knock you clean out with their hurricane-strength force. HELL YEAH!! In contrast but with no less punch behind its impact, Hold On To Saturday helps me demonstrate in one podcast, the versatility and range this band manage to showcase via the album. You think that's amazing you need to get on downloading that full FREE album and checking out the other masterpieces therein. No excuses folks, just top quality banging rock masterpieces. Now GO GET! http://www.wingsofapollo.com/

*there are no such guys, just me.

THE SCHOLARS
Picture from The Scholars Facebook page
When stating how Spooks has always been my personal favourite of The Scholars' most recent batch of singles I feel like I'm a broken record. I've shared and bigged up all the other songs too because quite frankly in this alternative indie rock trio we have a top quality band putting out music that cuts right through to your soul and makes that all-important lasting connection. Make sure you grab your FREE download of Spooks below. Then check out the other releases from the band because there are some more ace freebies too.

The huge atmospheric sound these guys produce is simply put, phenomenal! And they master the live performance like true professionals. Following their recent performance at the O2 Academy Oxford as part of a BBC Introducing event, a number of new dates are set to be announced for June & July. The band is also currently mixing a few new tracks so please get 'liking' their Facebook page too keep on top of these updates. Get along to a show if you are nearby and let's keep music live! https://www.facebook.com/thescholarsofficial

MARY GAUTHIER
There is one word I choose that befits Mary Gauthier and that is musical legend. Okay, that is technically two words but as I mention on the podcast itself, I hold her right up there with the likes of Wilco and Bob Dylan. She has the ability to render me just so in awe to be speechless.


I make it no secret how much Last Of The Hobo Kings has been formally enshrined into my top most favourite songs of all time EVER list. The instrumental opening few seconds of this song move me through space and time. When finally settling and opening my eyes, Old Steam Train Maury is standing right there in front of me as this obituary song plays out. His entire personality is relayed with such vividness I do have to check to ensure I'm not hallucinating. If you don't have Live At Blue Rock then there is something very wrong with you.


Just have a listen to closing track Wheel Inside The Wheel above. You'll notice there's also a hidden track therein. This is a wondrous tasty treat in the form of a heavenly version of Mercy Now, complete with gospel choir on backing vocals. Then the video of a performance of Mercy Now at the Frog Pond. You can thank me later but most of all thank Mary by buying her marvelous music. You can read my review of the album, Live At Blue Rock by clicking >>here<<. http://www.marygauthier.com/

ROBB MURPHY
The song featured, Never Letting You Go, is available as a FREE download from Robb's bandcamp page. When musicians of this stature are giving away music you really MUST NOT pass it by. Entice you into buying some more of Robb Murphy's perfect blend of gentle acoustic alternative indie pop. The acoustics are sublime. The songrwriting is first class. 


With a musicianship to rival the greats, you need to stop stalling and get on board. Robb has debut album Take A Stand out and with it smashes through all barriers with something magnificent. Have a sample of the singles from the album below and judge for yourselves. This is accomplished stuff. Little wonder he's been receiving so many amazing reviews and heady praise. You really need to also be having a listen to the three live demos he's got up on his soundcloud page because they are quite something!


Take A Stand is available in a variety of formats all to aid in your purchasing and thus listening pleasure. http://robbmurphy.com

For you iTuners click >>here<<.
For you Amazoners click >>here<<.
Or from Robb's own online shop click >>here<<.


MARK NICHOLS
What a talent Mark Nichols has. He's no one trick pony either, as he's a rather stunning photographer too. Although even if he was a one trick pony on the side of his sensational music, it would be one incredibly impressive and successful trick to have.



Following the release of the stunning and original EP Traveller last year, Mark followed it up with the release of a FREE acoustic track called In The Arms Of Angels. I'm rather excited about the live acoustic EP he is currently working on and it goes without saying I need to catch him live at the first opportunity I can.


I certainly won't miss out because as I've said before when featuring Mark on the blog, this is one talented young singer-songwriting musician who is going to be HUGE! https://www.facebook.com/marknicholsmusic


REICHENBACH FALLS
These guys certainly didn't disappoint when I caught them live at Wood Festival on Saturday 18th May.  They performed superbly although I regret I couldn't hang around to say hi after their set ended for the only reason I had to mozy on over to the other stage so as not to miss Flights Of Helios. It was great to hear a few more songs that will be featuring on the Reichenbach Falls full album, Reports Of Snow. Some videos of some of the songs are already up on t'intertweb, the one for Stay Home, Elizabeth which is below for you to see in all its gorgeous glory.


Stay Home, Elizabeth from Reichenbach Falls on Vimeo.

I can't believe it was so long ago now I reviewed the wonderful EP I'll Never Go Anywhere Without Her Now. That was back on Band of Badgers Presents...#12. Go >>here<< to read that and make sure you buy a copy so you are fully prepared for Reports Of Snow. 


Seeing the videos of some others songs and seeing the band play those and the more familiar tracks from the EP has well and truly whetted my appetite for the LP even more. I am positively ravenous for it. A superb title as well and yes it does remind me of Game Of Thrones but how can it not? Winter Is Coming after all. Please do go and 'like' the Reichenbach Falls Facebook page so you can keep up to date with all the latest news and the live dates that are soon to be going up. https://www.facebook.com/ReichenbachFalls 

SUMMA
I use the phrase a lot but then it tends to happen to me quite a lot, so it is only down to the superb music dancing its way to my ears. Blown away. Yes, that's the one - and Summa blew me to Timbuktu with the song Microlove. It was a FREE download and I just had to share it on the podcast after featuring it and the band on the blog a while back. An alternative indie rock duo from Boulder, Colorado I was quite surprised how amazing they sounded. Not that I was being prejudice or expecting it to be anything bad you understand. It just completely blew me away.


Checking out more music and Jake O'Neal's YouTube page I've uncovered even more phenomenal music that has blown me away yet again. I am indeed having to write this bit of the post while whirling around in a hurricane. I will cover Jake's solo stuff separately in a forthcoming post but with how wonderful the music is I cannot but share it here as well, while I'm on the subject. You can check out and buy his own self-titled EP/single from iTunes by clicking >>here<<.


Picture taken from the band's Facebook page
Not only one incredibly talented young guy, Jake is also a part of funk/reggae/soul group Intuit along with fellow Summa member Max Grossman and a bunch of other really great individuals. I've checked this out too of course and there is some superb stuff. You can check out some of these tunes on Intuit's Reverbnation page >>here<<. You can expect them to feature on the blog at some point in the future as well. Back to Jake for a moment though, please visit his Facebook page and hit that 'like' button. You will want to know as his updates go up and being as busy a bee as he is, Facebook will help you do this. Jake O'Neal on Facebook is >>here<<.

Back to Summa and I really can't wait to hear more from these guys because like I say, Microlove just blew me clean away. I explained how it gets really embedded in my head and I play it endlessly on repeat afterwards. On mind radio, I mean. When it no longer pops up on loop I simply ensure I listen to it again and wham bam, it's there for another long stint. I really could listen to it just endlessly. http://www.summamusic.com/

LAVERS
Picture taken from the band's Facebook page
Third time round on the podcast for this Australian band with a song I featured previously on the blog. I've Been Waiting is available from iTunes >>here<<. Let me here those clicks, folks and get downloading this fabulous music. It was recorded at Sydney's Studios 301 with Simon Todkill (Mark Ronson, Matt Corby, Kanye West). You also need to check out their other records up there, The Street Is A Symphony >>here<< and Endless Corridors >>here<<. These two marvelous EPs are also available via bandcamp >>here<< for those of you who prefer to avoid iTunes.


Brothers Dom and Sebastian work ceaselessly to get Lavers where they want to and should be. With added depth and layers from drummer Matt Barnes and bassist Chris Law, the band have a bright future ahead of them. Gigging extensively last year, they became known for their electrifying live shows, complete with mass sing-alongs and crowd participation.


I'm saving hard (seriously? on my salary? if only I could) to get myself over to Australia soon where I can take in the musical delights of Lavers before moving on to New Zealand to soak up the superb sounds of Julie Lamb. Keep yourselves up to date with all things Lavers because the word is out they have another new single due out soon! www.laversband.com

THE COMO BROTHERS BAND
Taken from their most recent EP Still Waters, Bad Karma is the second outing on the podcast for The Como Brothers Band. And why not? Music this great needs to be shared as often as possible. It is a top track as well! Another couple of brothers who are working endlessly to make a success with their music, Matt and Andrew Como are talent incarnate.


Sell Music online at ReverbNation.com

Quite rightly so, success is heading their way after a very busy and exciting 2012 that has seen their profile bought to the attention of some movers and shakers. How these guys remain unsigned at present is a mystery but such is the way of the music industry these days. Still, there is no disputing they have more than enough talent to carry them on and through to the big time. Amongst a number of other exciting things, the band's music has been placed on MTV's Real World Portland and the instrumental version of their song Your Love has been placed in adverts for Quicksilver. Not only this, but they have music featuring on a soundtrack for indie film Wingman Inc, due out later in the year.


Having been selected to play The Warped Tour at Nassau Coliseum last year, the band are vying for a place on the Vans Warped Tour 2013. You lovely people can help them get there by voting for them in the Ernie Ball Battle Of The Bands >>here<<. Thank you please. Here's to another big year for a great indie band! Oh, and before I finish, if you don't already have the Still Waters EP you should head to iTunes for it >>here<<. http://comobrothersband.com/

 MERCIA EVENTS PRESENTS....LIVE HOUSE
It is always with regret when I am unable to get myself to live events when I am asked and welcomed so nicely. I urge ALL of you live music fans who live nearby to Burton-On-Trent to get yourselves to Mercia Events next Live House gig on Thursday 6th June. Even just you music fans who don't usually extend yourselves to the live circuit. You are missing out on something so special. All the bands or artists featured are top quality indie musicians who live for playing their music and sharing it with you, the people. It will make for a cracking night so get along please!


Following on from last month's amazing night featuring the excellent bands The Cheap Thrills and The Indieannas, June's gig sees the tremendous Trouble With Tuesday and vivacious The Velocets take over the evening to entertain with their remarkably accomplished music. Pure quality from both these bands! That seems to be my new word of the moment - quality. Totally justified by such quality I'm hearing and seeing. I'll be taking a closer look at both the bands in future posts.


So, yet another top night of live music ahead. I really need a helicopter! The venue for you lucky folks who will be able to enjoy this is Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton On Trent, DE14 1EB. Tickets are just £5 so there is no excuse not to part with such a small sum for such a superb night as this will be. http://www.merciaevents.com/


NEW CASSETTES
Closer to home and the town where I live for this band. Thanks to Craig Gibson of The Puppet Rebellion for pointing me in the direction of Northampton's very own New Cassettes. Another amazing band from this town I had no idea of until they were suggested to me. Just goes to show how much I need to be looking around here a bit more for some top music.


Their second album Winterhead is now available and have a listen below, it is quite something! You can buy it via iTunes >>here<<. This  is crisp and fresh indie rock I am becoming rather a huge fan of. http://newcassettes.com/



THE MID-SUMMER CLASSIC
It's a while since I first came across this US alternative pop rock band. As usual it is just lack of time and space as to why they haven't featured in a post before now. At least, I don't recall them having done so. If they have it will have been quite some time ago now. Either way, their sensational track Space Queen really needs a share. It is AMAZING! So big and atmospheric. I am seriously loving this tune!
Picture taken from the band's Facebook page
The Mid-Summer Classic are as yet unsigned, which given the quality (yes, that word again) of this music, is just a crime. Their bio on Facebook sums them up really well, 'Energetic songs filled with heart-felt relatable lyrics and catchy choruses'. Space Queen is the first track on their most recent EP Euphoria which contains a further 4 stunning tracks. Buy it from iTunes >>here<<. Euphoria is also available via bandcamp and you can have a listen below. https://www.facebook.com/themidsummerclassic





THE SHALLOWS


WOW! Yes, my extreme WOW for this post comes thanks to The Shallows with Honestly. Honestly, how AWESOME is this tune!? Available as a FREE download too. You know what to do by now. Let me hear those clicks, folks. Seriously, there is so much superb music that is totally FREE these days.


There's also a superb animated video for the song. The band strike me as enigmatic with an air about them that is mysterious but honest.


Also for your enjoyment is the acoustic video of Get Gone, filmed down on The South Bank in the Antarctic March temperatures. This is some fantastic music and tuneage here. More to come from The Shallows soon! http://theshallows.co/ << And as the guys have to point out, it really is just .co.....no .uk or anything after it.

WHITE CLOUDS & GUNFIRE
Another fairly local band, this time from neighbouring Peterborough (okay not exactly neighbouring but it isn't far from Northampton). While researching some local talent a couple of weeks ago my ears bathed me in gratitude for stumbling upon White Clouds & Gunfire. Their distinct alternative punk rock sound is instantly catchy and infectious. Infectious in the kind of way that you want to lick them to ensure you catch what it is they got. Perhaps that is taking the metaphor a little bit far but just listen to the sounds, folks! Then get licking, oh, excuse me, I mean clicking...to find lots more from this awesome band.


Hit 'like' on their Facebook page as they have an important tour announcement coming on 7th June you won't want to miss. There's already lots of live dates up on the page for you to get scribbling in your diaries or setting reminders on your digital devices (I did that last time, right? about does anyone still use pens and paper now?). Their band profile page on facebook is actually one of the smartest I've seen and as you can imagine I've looked at quite a lot over the last year or more.



They are giving away a FREE download of the song Satellite too so make sure you click, click and grab it! Superb tunes from a very tight sounding awesome band here. https://www.facebook.com/wcagf

TIME TO GET BRIEF...

CASTRO
From across The Narrow Sea to beautiful Belfast (where they doth film a great deal of the great Game Of Thrones of course) for the latest song from alternative indie band Castro. The opening guitar to this track does things to me. It is top notch stuff. The song overall is impressive, lyrically, vocally and musically. It leaves me yearning for more from these guys.



Make sure you get to their Facebook page and 'like' so you can keep updated on all things Castro Music. https://www.facebook.com/castrobelfast

PHOENIX FOUNDATION
Just a brief one from this New Zealand band for the moment but I could not go without at least sharing something from them. Thanks to the lovely singer-songwriter Julie Lamb for sending me a link to the band on Facebook. It was for a show they were doing in London a few weeks ago, which as I don't live there or near enough (or more importantly don't get paid enough to get myself there often enough for such things) I was unable to make it.


Totally digging the sound of this band though so will be covering more about them soon. http://www.thephoenixfoundation.co.nz

LEWIS WATSON
I was well and truly put in some kind of trance when mooching through some music videos and finding this one. It was likely a tweet or a someone 'liked' it on Facebook. I think Lewis sounds phenomenal so please check out his stuff for me and give some more support.

You can pre-order his EP Four More Songs (due out 1st July) from iTunes >>here<<. This video is for the song Into The Wild, taken from a previous EP, The Wild which can also be purchased from iTunes >>here<<. http://lewiswatsonmusic.com/

LUCAS GULLIFORD
A stunning demo track from Lucas Gulliford up on his soundcloud page. This was another WOW for me, make no mistake. https://www.facebook.com/lucasgullifordmusic


FIRST THINGS FIRST 
THIS IS WHO WE ARE (DOCUMENTARY)
Get to know US alternative rock band First Things First a whole lot more by watching their full documentary on their YouTube channel First Things First TV >>here<<. The trailer for this is below.


These guys are heading out on their This Is Who We Are tour from June 22nd to July 27th across a nice wide range of States so if you're a US reader of the blog and this superb blend of alternative indie rock is your bag, you HAVE to get along to a show. It is going to be something special as this band aims to leave its mark on America. https://firstthingsfirst.bandpage.com/

GUY VALARINO ON THE WALL
This is kind of 'just in' but Guy Valarino has been on my music radar for a wee while now. Well, not The Wall in The North of Westeros, no - but rather beautiful song City Walls, from a wall. Sublime! Guy is a British singer-songwriter from Gibraltar and brings you a warm sound to render those Mediterranean shores beneath your very feet.


I'm way too late in sharing the info but for any London-bound/based readers, Guy has a gig at the famed Ronnie Scott's Bar on Tuesday 28th May. Please do not miss out! To whet your appetite even further there's a video below he did for Garden Gnome Sessions. http://guyvalarino.com/



AND NOW FOR SOMETHING 
COMPLETELY DIFFERENT

TIM MINCHIN'S STORM:
THE ANIMATED MOVIE
I count myself fortunate to have seen the brilliant Tim Minchin perform live twice now. Sadly, I've not seen him billed at any of the festivals I'm attending this summer but I sincerely hope I get to see him again someday. He is one of the most intelligent singing comedians out there, something proven by this short film he released a few years ago.


Well, I must come to a close. If only so I may get on with the mountainous tasks I still have ahead of me. I hope you enjoyed podcast #14 and found some great new music as a result, from the show itself as well as from this extended blogcast. Still so much more I wanted to include but it was already beginning to grow large so the line must now be drawn. Expect lots more posts in quick succession (he says). Album reviews aplenty are still on their way, apologies as always for my ridiculous delay. I seem to be rhyming, it's always the timing, so let's shut my face and get out of this place. Peace to you all and catch you soon.

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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!


Free Music Player for Myspace at ReverbNation.com

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.


Learn how to get your song on itunes at ReverbNation.com

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
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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


Free embed music player from ReverbNation.com


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.

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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.

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