Predominantly a blog of music reviews (albums, gigs, new music). All views & opinions are my own. Subject to status. Written quotations on request. Also one of the homes to Band of Badgers Presents...a music podcast introducing fantastic independent music. Also occasional ramblings of madness with perhaps the odd bit of sense. Eat Snacky Smares....because it's good for you! THIS BLOG HAS NOW MOVED TO http://bandofbadgerspresents.com/
Anyone else get fed up with the way 'Christmas' seems to take over the entire month of December? In fact, it goes further than that these days doesn't it? When shops start putting their decorations and the like, out when Summer has barely shifted into Autumn. For me, I think it is less the 'jovial festivities' that frustrates me and more the hollowness of how commercial it has all become. Or perhaps I'm just getting old and bitter. It is for the kids though, to be fair. I have a niece and nephew with another on the way so I can fully appreciate the excitement of it all from their point of view. Aside from the fact we start off their young lives with such bare faced lies of course. But for adults? Am I really just being a miserable bah humbug? Honestly, I don't care if I am but I think that is an unfair judgement.
It's been a little on the quiet side on the blog so far this month and as ever I had so much more planned to get done and published. However I've just had one of the busiest weeks at work I think I've ever had the displeasure to experience. Now, don't get me wrong here because I'm all for working hard and getting on with a job I'm paid to do. When getting paid such a pittance for what I've been expected to do it just increases the existential woe factor. At the end of each day I could barely manage to look at my laptop screen after being sat in front of my work screen all day. Bah! It's over thankfully, although I only had the two paltry days off for Xmas this year. Rubbish! I'd planned to have podcast #12 done and dusted way before now but I've still not even written it up or recorded it yet.
Not really one for jumping on bandwagons - although if the band is good then I'll be jumping on it I can assure you - with all these countdowns and whatnot I thought I would share some of my own highlights and favourites from the past year. A kind of consolidation post, I suppose. But there has been so much to share I didn't want to waffle on at my usual length. So, that post is yet to come but you get all of this as an added extra special bonus. Consider it a little Christmas box if you must although I'm afraid you won't be finding any Christmas songs. Well, not the tired ones they drag out each and every year anyway. The only one I can stand to hear these days is Stop the Cavalry, something that also has me judged because of it's more melancholic nature. As far as I'm concerned all of those wretched and tired songs that get pulled out year on year ad infinitum, should all be wiped from history! I would much rather just listen to proper regular music thank you very much. Or at the least something new like the couple I have below for you. Now, who's for a (bottle of) sherry and a (six pack) mince pies? Can I make mine a bottle of bourbon instead please? In fact, while working at the weekend I stuck on some Planet Rock and they were playing my kind of 'Twelve Days of Christmas' in that the links to the song itself were tenuous. Living, Loving Maid (She's Just A Woman) by Led Zeppelin fulfilled the 'Maids-a-milking' quota. And while I mention that, 'Maids-a-milking..' That's a bit rude isn't it? Or is it just me?
#1 Sleepthief featuring Kristy Thirsk - Ubi Caritas
Right then. The first Christmas song is something rather special and beautiful. It sounds so ethereal it was hard for me not to trip out somewhat. I mean this in the most legal of ways and there were no drugs involved of any kind. When music is this tranquil there's no need for any substance to evoke some form of transcendentalism. The magic in the vocals combined with the production and everything else does the job very well enough indeed.
We have the hugely talented Sleepthief (who I hope you recall bought us Mortal Longing featuring the lovely Jody Quine - which I played way back on podcast #4) to thank for bringing this to our attention. This time it is the vocal talents of award-winning Canadian singer/songwriter Kristy Thirsk who graces our ears with a rendition of an ancient Gregorian hymn. Ubi Caritas was composed sometime between the fourth and tenth centuries and you have to agree its quality is limitless. This is the kind of song that could be bought out year on year and not sound even slightly sleepy (as opposed to the hollow tat we have to put up with instead). I'm certainly not one for heavily religious music or anything that ties something down to any specific mode of thought, as such. When the message is as pure and true as this particular hymn, however, I believe it to be one that needs sharing. Even more so in today's fractured and broken societies. Its call for us to offer the highest form of love to others and ourselves, and for unification transcends beyond any specificity from which it may have been born.
You can check out loads more from Sleepthief via his Soundcloud page. Snow, featuring Zoe Johnston has just blown me away. I'm typing the rest of this with my 'go go gadget arms' (apologies for anyone who doesn't know of Inspector Gadget from their childhoods). He's also on Facebook of course as well as his own websitehttp://sleepthiefmusic.com/.
#2 Mary Gauthier - Christmas in Paradise
Christmassy song #2 comes from an amazing songwriter and singer from across the pond as well. I feel privileged to have been introduced to Mary Gauthier's music earlier this year when I was sent her latest album, Live At Blue Rock, to review. Love, love, love it. There is such passion and depth to her songs or even just the way she works and delivers them if they're not her own. An amazing talent indeed! Christmas really is in Paradise but only if you sit back and listen to Mary sing it to you. Enjoy!
#3 Henrietta Harpist - I Giorni
We're back over this side of the Atlantic for #3. Recorded in a conservatory to be precise and, and.....wait for it....wait for it! The music comes courtesy of Henrietta Harpist on a very real and amazing harp! It is sublime.The piece is I Giorni, a composition by Ludovico Einaudi and was recorded for the RTTV Sessions Christmas Specials. Who doesn't love the sensational sounds from the harp? I remember catching American harpist Joanna Newsom on an episode of Jools Holland's Later programme a few years back which put me in a trance I didn't return from for days.
#4 Jinnwoo - Woman
It is thanks to Jinnwoo from Leicester that I came across this via an update he shared on Facebook as Henrietta is a very good friend of his. I was fortunate to catch Jinnwoo play live himself as the first support opening for Willy Mason at my favourite live music venue in the Midlands, The Musician in Leicester, back in May. He has also recorded a song for RTTV called Woman which you should check out below. The other 23 videos are all well worth your time and attention too while you're at it. It was kind of an advent countdown I suppose and I'm just sorry I wasn't able to sort out any earlier posts to bring them to your attention as they were being published.
#5 Leo Stannard - Lose Yourself
Moving completely away from the Christmassy stuff now we get to Leo Stannard. How this guy not huge already I do not know but it is only a matter of time as more and more people learn of his amazing ability. His sound reminds me a little of Paolo Nutini and this particular video is via his own YouTube channel. It was filmed live at The Bedford.
#6 Mark Nichols - Guardian
This young rising star has somehow slipped by me up until now which is in no way his fault. It is just my big issue with time and the sheer amount of new music I come across. I'm thrilled with what I've discovered now I've finally checked out his stuff because it is damn good stuff! Go get listening to his tunes and watching his videos. Now please, less dawdling thank you very much. Mark Nichols is one of a number of artists at the top of my MUST SEE LIVE in 2013 list, that's for sure.
Mark released his debut EP Guardian in 2011 which quite rightly saw him begin developing strong links with BBC Introducing. Things have pretty much snowballed for him since then as he received more and more airplay and ventured out on a national tour. Success continued as he was snapped up by Tanglewood Guitars who were smart enough to endorse him as a brand rep and with the release of his winter single The Storm back in January. The final quarter of 2012 has kept Mark busy following the release of his latest EP The Traveller on 17th September and a 3 month tour including a BBC Radio London live session, supporting for Juan Zelada (who I saw at Bakewell Music Festival and is full of energetic fabness by the way) and a headline set at The London Acoustic Guitar Show alongside many top well-known names. I say this about many of the acts I discuss and share but it is so evident that Mark is going to be a huge hit in the music world. He has what it takes to really break through into the mainstream but with all the depth of those that are yes equally fantastic but just who don't manage to make it through. Mark will be there for them, no doubt helping make the way for others to do so in the future in spite of how tough it is out there.
#7 Rita Payne - Stay
Not, as I was suspecting from the name, an individual female solo artist but a rather enchanting male/female duo. There are so many such amazing duos out on the music scene at present. From the folksters Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman to Katriona Gilmore and Jamie Roberts and more recently for me the more Americana infused Trevor Moss and Hannah Lou to the beautiful Black Feathers. I am loving them all! Each member brings something crucially important that just can't work individually. That is certainly not to say each cannot be as amazing with any such individual or solo work or work with anyone else they wish to or even do. I guess what I'm trying to say is that when united as their duo outfit, they end up creating something so uniquely beautiful and magical, the world of music (and indeed beyond) is a much better place for it.
I've not yet had chance to check out more of their stuff but I have to admit I'm bursting and tingling with excitement at the prospect. Citing influences including Bob Dylan, Fleetwood Mac, The Civil Wars, Bon Iver, Simon & Garfunkel, Seth Lakeman and Bruce Springsteen I can already guess Rita Payne will be featuring on my playlist a fair bit in the coming year. Visit Rita Payne's official page at https://www.facebook.com/TheRitaPayne.
#8 Aaron Shanley - sometimes people just fall out of love
I'm not 100% certain (as usual) but it may have been indirectly via Sam Beeton I came across Aaron. Ah not, hang on a second...I'm pretty sure it was Adian Logan actually. I really should keep notes on how I come across some folk. Or was it Danny Burns or Tom Smith? Anyway, whoever it was I wish to thank them for the pleasure because this latest video is wonderful. Watch and enjoy it for yourselves. Also, make sure you visit his Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/aaronshanley.
#9 Nate Jones - We Are
Nate Jones will definitely be featuring in the post of my look back at 2012 because his music is so heartfelt and real I honestly wish I had a physical copy of his album in my collection right now. When it is out I will be snapping up my copy before it's even finished. When I featured him in one of my podcasts and on the blog a while back I did mention his age but at just 22 and writing songs like this, and even more so performing them with such soul is just....well, it is what great music is all bout. It is what it should be about. TV bosses can keep all that manufactured crap. We need more of the real talent hiding out there in the world, people like Nate. We Are is one heck of a deep and beautiful song. You will want to hear more that's a certainty.
#10 Sam Beeton- Red Gold and Green
I admit Sam has been featured on the blog a number of times since I first had the pleasure in discovering his music back in March/April. Red Green and Gold is the latest song in his Record Club Season 2 which you really need to be subscribing to if you haven't already done so. Check out loads more at his website http://www.sambeeton.com/.
#11 Villagers - Nothing Arrived Villagers really did not disappoint when I saw them at Truck Festival in July this year. Conor O'Brien is truly captivating to watch and listen to live and this latest single from forthcoming album Awayland (out next month) has whetted my appetite for more new tunes so much so my salivating may require a flood warning to be issued.
#12 Wild Beasts - Stray
These guys shouldn't exactly require any in-depth introduction as they have been out there for a number of years now. Their fanbase and audiences growing at a rapid pace they are most certainly on the original and interesting side of the music scale. Offering a trademark sound unlike any other UK band I can think of off the top of my head, I was gutted I was unable to see them live this year. The weekend I could have potentially made it (although lack of funds threatened to make is not so) I was away for a weekend in Wales. I couldn't pass up the opportunity for that weekend out in the middle of nowhere though. Out in the wilderness. Okay, it was a nice little holiday cottage but it was still out there in the middle of nowhere. Anywho, you don't want to be reading all about that. You want to be hitting play on this unreleased song from Wild Beasts gifted to fans for their support throughout the past year and beyond.
Well folks, that about sums up my kind of 12 days of Christmas. The right amount of Christmas songs if you ask me and no more (3). There are a few others that are worthy I'll grant you but with having so much to share I hope the above will suffice to keep you entertained over this period between Christmas and the new year. I'll get cracking on all the many things I have on the go and sincerely hope it will not be very long before my 2012 look back post makes it up. Hope you have all had a fantastic holiday and the best of new years to each and every one of you. Thank you so much for reading and coming back for more this year.
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!
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 andwhat 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 viaiTunes 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 Fadefeatures 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 atDownloadFestival, 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!
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.
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.
Hey folks. I seem to have gone a little singles crazy today. Well, yesterday actually. Apologies this post is a day late but these things have to be done proper I'm sure you'll agree. Hope you enjoy the below. Please get clicking and showing the love by purchasing those that are your thing. These bands and artists need your support, always. They really appreciate it as well and know full well that without you guys they would not be able to do this.
I'm cracking on with three mini album reviews in my bid to catch up with the backlog. Podcast #11 has gone up as you may or may not have noticed so I'll try and get on to that blogcast soon as I can too. Then there's this coming weekend of gigs galore. Saturday sees The Dreaming Spires while Sunday is my Tom McRae fix. Expect reviews of those in some form or another too. Oh and I've not forgotten about the Gilmore & Roberts gig review either. That will be up before the others. Jeez. I'm out of breath now so best get on with these singles reviews....
Derby-based indie rock band Whitemoor
didn’t just throw their cards forcefully on the table with the release of their
sensational self-titled debut album last year. They used a clever combination
of subtle and epic alternative indie rock sounds to arrange them in all manner
of intricate sculptures. The musical masterpiece that resulted should be
counted as their breakthrough album, which for a debut marks a hugely promising
start.
New single High Lights is a sneaky
peak at the forthcoming follow up Horizons, and it is one heck of a
tease. Their army of existing fans should ready the waterproofs because it will
initiate maximum salivation mode for what is to come. For all those coming to Whitemoor
for the first time, it is a perfect introduction demonstrating the high level
of quality this band has to offer. They have an infectious vibe about them. So
infectious you will pass it on to your friends and, well, anyone who’s in the vicinity
when you listen to their stunningly stylish songs.If this is anything to go by, album number two is going to propel them into
the stratosphere as far as exposure is concerned. This track alone would sit so
comfortably on the BBC 6 Music playlist; they need to send in extra copies ready
for when the original gets worn out from too much spinning.
Bursting upon the eardrums with a
catchy beat, High Lights soon begins building at just the right pace. It entices
you in like the promise of sweets to a child before Benny’s vocals begin
working at the full range of their magic and that’s it! You’re hooked! There is
no escape. More importantly, you won’t want there to be. In fact, there is so
much life and energy from this track, when it does end you’ll be gasping for
more before you suffocate from the loss of it. The chorus is so contagious you’ll
end up singing along to it for hours after just the one listen. It really does
have everything required to make it a humungous smash hit. Fast and furious
punching drums to rev up the tempo, a killer bass line so precise it requires a
microscope to study its complexities and a breathtaking mini guitar solo
towards the end to close proceedings in true style.
Their Facebook page describes the
band as being as charming as Snow Patrol and as entertaining as The Killers. I say move along Snow
Patrol and adios The Killers because Whitemoor
are back and they mean big business. The Horizons looking spectacular!
To help Whitemoor keep climbing the download charts and give real music a chance of some of the much needed and well-deserved limelight please purchase your copy of High Lights via iTunes for 79p by clicking >>here<<.
Alternatively you can purchase it from Amazon >>here<< for 89p.
This is the third single to be
released from The Spires’ critically acclaimed debut album, Brothers
in Brooklyn and it is yet another delicious, tasty treat for the ears,
mind and the soul. The guys really let loose with Just Can’t Keep This Feeling In.
It leaps right into a heavy bombardment of vocals and glorious instrumentals crashing,
strumming and playing with real gusto. It grabs a hold of you to make sure you’re
awake and if you’re not you will be quick smart!
You really feel this feeling bursting out through every harmonious
nook and each melodic cranny, leaving you mopping it up gladly. It is loud, it
is lively and it is coming for you! Quite literally thanks to the guys winning
the BBC6
Music rebel playlist and receiving some much deserved airplay with this
very tantalizing track. This is in addition to Brothers in Brooklyn picking
up airplay via Xfm and Radio 2. There is also the extra
song See
You In The Morning with this release, which is from the album sessions.
I’ve not heard it in full yet myself but with the album offering one quality tune after another
from start to finish, I have no doubt of any kind it will be just as fantastic. The preview makes me want more so I
cannot wait to hear it! Maybe they will perform it live at the gig in Oxford this Saturday. Now,
that would be sweet.
Pre-Order you digital copy of the single and get these two terrific tracks via iTunes for £1.29 by clicking >>here<<.
ARTIST: SYD ARTHUR
SINGLE: DOROTHY
WEBSITE: http://sydarthur.co.uk/
RELEASED: 12th NOVEMBER 2012
Having already featured this particular release a few
weeks back on the blogcast for Band of Badgers Presents #9, I won’t
ramble on too much here. You can read what I had to say (write) about this
single below (pasted in for your convenience). Dorothy is the
latest single this Canterbury-based bunch of psychedelic indie folk fellows is
releasing from their truly inspiring and wonderfully epic self-released debut
album On An On. Do have yourself a good listen to the track while
it is here available for streaming. Then, after the first play when the sacred
sounds and luscious lyrics have touched you deeply go and buy yourself a copy. If
you’ve heard it then you know it makes sense. If you haven’t heard it, what are
you doing? Hit play and read while you take it in.
On An On is a stunning debut
showcasing an ability these guys have for immersing listeners fully into a
complete transcendental musical experience. The latest single they're releasing
is Dorothy. As with the album, this single was
self-recorded at home and is being released on the band's very own record
label, Dawn Chorus. Syd
Arthur is independent in all senses of the word. They have worked
hard to get to where they are today and they are taking the music world by
storm. They have been drawing comparisons to the likes of Soft Machine,
Caravan but also with contemporaries such as Wolf People
and Tampa
Impala. I went as far as comparing their closing track Paradise
Lost to what I think sounds on the east side of Led Zeppelin.
I don't think there are any other bands out there like Syd Arthur
though, to be quite honest. I speak (write) of originality with many of the
acts I feature or review but with these guys, originality is taken to a whole
new level. And yet they capture the right amount of elements from the past like
the late 60's, early 70's psychedelic scenes.
With its ethereal and calm intro, Dorothy soon
has you sucked into its own electric atmosphere as Liam Magill begins
lamenting on the swift passage of our lives before the poetic lyrics hit on
some further, deeper existential musings. For all the relative calmness there
is chance for the eccentricity to shine as the song progresses. The keys swirl
with an effortless grandeur producing sounds that wrap themselves around you to
hold you in place while others are free to tease and entice. After lapping this
up for a wee while, you will certainly be left wanting to hear more, which will
encourage you to go buy the critically acclaimed On An On.
ARTIST: MARY DILLON
SINGLE: JOHN CONDON
TRACKS: 1
WEBSITE:www.marydillon.com
RELEASED: 11th NOVEMBER 2012
Before you hit play on this one I
urge you to stock up on tissues because acclaimed Irish folk singer Mary
Dillon will melt your eye floodgates no matter what defences are in
place. Released on 11th November to coincide with Remembrance
Sunday, this single is an emotional account of the part played by fourteen year
old John
Condon during World War One. He was the youngest soldier to be killed
during that treacherous time and you feel his life-force with every word and
note of this track.
It is one of the most moving
songs I’ve heard in a very long time and as deeply heartbreaking as it is, I
find myself wanting to listen to it more and more. When reality makes us
neglect the past, a song like this helps us remember those sacrifices. It
touches us in a way that encourages us to be thankful for what such young
heroes did to enable our freedoms today. What is even more haunting for me
personally is last year I visited my great-grandfather’s grave at a war
cemetery in Anzio, Italy. The opening lines of the
song bring that day back with such vivid realism I can feel the hot summer sun
burning me to a crisp as I search past grave on grave, row on row until I see
the name….
Mary’s vocals are so tranquil throughout
they remind me of the gentlest sounds from a harp. That final chorus with the
altered line, ‘sing out for all their souls’ is delivered with such an angelic harmony, I half expected to see an
angel hoard ready to sing in full chorus when I opened my eyes. This is a song
that doesn’t just make you remember, it pulls you right back there to see and
feel the profound sorrow and loss this war left in its devastating wake.
Following her fifteen year hiatus from the music scene, Mary releases her
debut solo album North in
February next year. I’ve been fortunate to get a sneaky listen and the exquisite
beauty of John Condon is no
isolated incident. I’ll bring you a review of the full album in January.
THAT'S A WRAP
To wrap up just two more things. Well, actually it is me so you know full well there are many more things. Three mini album reviews for one but they will be following shortly. So let's hold back that ado-ing and get on with the further. Something like that.
Those indie-folkers Boat To Row are counting down the days until the release of their EP Loyal Light on 19th November. The excitement is reaching critical. As it is for the forthcoming tour. In celebration they are so lovely they are offering you a sneaky peak and a free song. Listen to Freedom below then get clicking crazy to download your own copy.
Finally, I wanted to just mention the release of La Femme De Fontenaille, the latest album from Trevor Moss & Hannah Lou - released on 5th November. It is beautiful and delightful and I sincerely wish I had time to write more about it here. Do yourself a favour and go buy a copy. You will not regret it!
It's been a little on the quiet side on the blog so far this month and as ever I had so much more planned to get done and published. However I've just had one of the busiest weeks at work I think I've ever had the displeasure to experience. Now, don't get me wrong here because I'm all for working hard and getting on with a job I'm paid to do. When getting paid such a pittance for what I've been expected to do it just increases the existential woe factor. At the end of each day I could barely manage to look at my laptop screen after being sat in front of my work screen all day. Bah! It's over thankfully, although I only had the two paltry days off for Xmas this year. Rubbish! I'd planned to have podcast #12 done and dusted way before now but I've still not even written it up or recorded it yet.
