CALL THE BANNERS AND LETS SING SOME STORIES.

<Brrrrrr> Yes, I am still up here in the clouds. I made the mistake one evening last week of checking out a few videos of Sigur Ros at their recent UK shows. I did this not even for my own personal, selfish enjoyment but to find a couple to include in a blog post. Alas, I found myself unable to stop watching them. Reliving such a transcendental musical experience is not something one can just stop doing, once started. And thus any hope of me coming  back down to Earth for the foreseeable future have now been torpedoed out of the ocean. There's just too much snow down there right now anyways. I am well above the snowline up here. Cold, yes but I now have a fully insulated duffle coat. As almost a whole month after that gig I still cannot shut up about the AMAZING Sigur Ros, it is only right I should share a recent Press Release (<<click there) with y'all. Yes, it is some news on their next album Kveikur - due out in June (jeez, try saying that fast after a few beers). They have also announced some more UK and European gig dates for later in the year. After this last time I think I will need to get this fix in November or else wallow in despair at the vacuousness of life without Sigur Ros live! If only I could afford to get myself to Norway for that Oslo show on 28th November. I could attempt to combine it with seeing the Northern Lights. That would be it for me. I would never get back down from that experience.

On a serious note, this snow is now beyond a joke. I'm not one for moaning about it usually. This is the UK. This is our weather. Plus, it is a natural thing. Nature does as nature wishes based on how nature is operating (although I'm a believer in climate change and the mess of crap humanity has done and is doing to the world). Science. Meteorolgy more specifically, I think. Get over it. However, I will have a little whinge today because the snow the UK had yesterday prevented me traveling to Leamington Spa to see Stornoway at The Assembly. Gutted! I have only been looking forward to this gig for like, 18 months! The snow wasn't too bad in places but some of the roads I'd need to navigate on the way were treacherous. Add to that the sub sub sub zero temperatures making it all an ice-filled death trap late at night for the return drive and I just had to choose the safe option. As boring as that is, I do value my life. Still absolutely gutted though. Less annoyed about it being the snow's fault and more so about the lack of quality live music in Northampton. I still need to look into this more so but no bands I enjoy seem to really play here. It is frustrating. Anywho, I'm hoping I can catch the Stornoway boys at one of the four festivals I'm hoping to get my ass to this summer. Unless we really are in the lands of Westeros (Game of Thrones, apologies to you non-geeks), there should be no snow then. Although, I remind myself of the country I live in and the last six wash-out summer seasons we've had. I know we will all be moaning if a full on three month Indian Summer hits but bring it on, I say. Please!

Right, enough waffleage for now. I have so much music to share with you and MUST MUST MUST crack on with blogcast #13 as well. So I'll be limiting my waffle below. Enjoy!

UNDER A BANNER TELL SOME STORIES

This wonderful local indie rock band from Wolverhampton have had their moving song about a soldier, Some Stories, chosen to be an official charity song for Help For Heroes. It isn't released until May 4th but the video was released via YouTube a few weeks ago. Please please please view, like and share this wonderful piece of musical film and help promote the track for the release in May. A lot of hard work went into producing this and the quality reflects this. It's such a fantastic tune as well. One of my favourites from the band's album The Ragged Rhythm of Rain. You can get a digital download of this smashing album for just £4.99 from Under A Banner's bandcamp page >>here<<.

Also please check out all the gig dates on the band's own website and get yourself along if you're local to any. It is a crime I'm still yet to get to one myself but this is purely a logistics issue or else I'd be at more than just the one. My time will come and I really can't wait for it. In fact, I'm incredibly jealous of you folk who are near these current batch of dates. Always keep up to date as more will no doubt be going up over the coming weeks and months.

One gig, in particular that will be spectacular is the one at The Victoria Inn in Derby next month. For just three little pound coins you will have a superb night of live music. Support will be in the form of alternative rock band The Standby Setting who you can sample out below. http://www.underabanner.co.uk/

Friday 19th April - The Hole in the Wall - Shrewsbury

Friday 26th April - The Victoria Inn - Derby

Sunday 5th May - Woody's Music Bar - Hednesford

Thursday 30th May - The Islington - Islington, London

Saturday 1st June - The Old Beams - Stourport on Seven

Sunday 7th July - The Robin 2 - Bilston (Supporting Quill)

Friday 2nd August -The Shakespeare Street - Stratford Upon Avon

The Standby Setting

AIDAN LOGAN STANDS NEXT TO YOU

Picture taken from Aidan's Facebook page.

Another charity single I included on the blog and in a podcast a while back is Let Them Know from Belfast-based singersongwriter Aidan Logan. While on the subject of charity singles I thought it appropriate to mention it again here. It is heartfelt and full to bursting with emotion. Pips is a cause for suicide prevention and as with all charities, needs the kindness and generosity of folk to help it achieve its aims.

More recently, I've heard the finished version of what will be the first single to be released from Aidan's forthcoming debut album and it is a treat! I have to remain ssshhhh'd for the moment but the release of the single is imminent so you can share my excitement soon enough. In the meantime and to appease you why not have a listen to this free download Aidan self-produced. I've included it before but for those new readers or those who aren't reading posts in any particular order here it is again for you. https://www.facebook.com/aidanloganmusic

You can also download the song from Aidan's bandcamp page >>here<<.

fiNtastic ALBUM THAT CERTAINLY ISN'T WASTED ON THE LIVING

Pic from fiN Facebook page - danahawleyphoto.net

On Monday 25th March one of my top bands from last year, fiN, release a digital download of their album Life Is Wasted On The Living. There is no limit to the quality these guys have. Their music is so rich and diverse. They don't rest on one sound, or one particular genre-defining concept. They remain indie to the core as well, which is humbling in today's messed up music market. Especially for a band that is so damn good! I don't believe an album release of this nature was ever pre-planned. Instead, fiN release their music in a truly unique and independent manner. No doubt it is down to the phenomenal demand for their music. Such phenomenal music will always induce a phenomenal response of course.

The whole lot here is nothing short of brilliance and perfection! There are always going to be places for musicians as strong as this to go in their future development but these really do have a complete package already. From instrumental The Artisan, which borders on progressive to the heavy rock infused pop of Rapture through to the divine Eve and beyond. There  really is something for everyone here. If you want to learn a bit more about the guys behind fiN and how the songs came together I highly recommend the 11 minute documentary below. It is enlightening. Then go buy the album via iTunes by clicking >>here<<.

If only their album launch gig was on Friday 5th or Sunday 7th I would have got my ass down to London so fast I would have left trail marks. I'm venturing down to see actor/singer-songwriter Iwan Rheon at Bush Hall on the Saturday night so would have made it a marvelous mega music weekend. Not to worry. My time will come soon. http://www.lifeiswastedontheliving.com/

THE SPOTLIGHT IS ON THE VARESE'S

What a fabulous tune Spotlight is. As you know I get lots of bands and artists following me on Twitter and I'm always grateful for them interacting and sending me links to their music to check out. This is precisely what Jonny Andrew from The Varese's did. Naturally, it is not possible to listen to everything as it comes through nor to feature it all. I really would if I could folks but I just don't have the time. Unless there's any music publication or radio station out there that wants to give me a job to do this all the time. I'll work 24/7 if so. Seriously! I do try my hardest to work through everything but there will most often always be some kind of delay.

Anywho, without digressing into the woes of lack of time as I always do (but cannot help it), I'll shut up and share this official music video for Spotlight from this tremendous indie rock band from Liverpool. Much more to come from these guys in the future. http://www.reverbnation.com/thevareses

LAVERS HAVE BEEN WAITING 

Having featured on my podcast a couple of times already, it was only right we caught up with what's going on down under with the Lavers brothers Dom and Sebastian. My thanks to Dom for including me in the mail out alerting us to this latest new single from the band, I've Been Waiting. Recorded at Studios 301 in Sydney with producer Simon Todkill (Matt Corby, Kanye West, Catcall) it is another impressive tune from Lavers.

Now after enjoying this beauty why not get along to iTunes and buy a few of their awesome EPs please? Click >>here<< and support such brilliant indie music. http://www.laversband.com/

LEW BEAR DOES CARLEKO

From the summer sun of down under all the way back to my snowed in doorstep of Northamptonshire now. Lew Bear tweeted this cover he put up on his Reverbnation page yesterday and I have fallen totally in love with it, if I'm being honest. It is a wonderful cover of Carleko's Jimmy Hammer Fist. It is breathtaking. It may well be that I am living most of my free time in George R R Martin's fictional Game of Thrones world of Westeros but listening to this song put me instantly in mind of it. I'd been there reading yes but it is as though listening to this song from Lew Bear somehow physically transports me there. I can feel the icy winter winds biting and I don't mean our own poor excuse for winter that doesn't seem to want to release its grip. It reminds me of the song played as the closing credits rolled to season 2 episode 9's Battle of Blackwater. Astounding. http://www.reverbnation.com/lewbear

Learn how to put a song on itunes at ReverbNation.com

REPEAT OFFENDERS BEG STEAL BORROW

I'm only a week late for this one! Still, it's now here so go get it folks and support this great local indie rock band. These guys are based around Aylesbury, Northampton and Dunstable. I would totally have gone to see them play on February 9th but I was booked up to see the marvelous Luke Jackson in Milton Keynes. My eyes are on their future gig dates though, so I will make it at some point this year. Their website describes them as The Stone Roses meets The Rolling Stones with an Oasis attitude. Check them out for yourselves and stop missing out. I'm really digging this, their official video for this latest single release. It is quality. http://www.therepeatoffenders.co.uk/ 

**NEW SINGLE** WHITEMOOR 

ALL I'VE EVER KNOWN

Those Derby lads are back with yet another tune from their forthcoming second album that will knock you over with the sheer force of its excellence. It is awesome and has something really different added to the band's regular mix which makes it that extra bit special. I could barely contain my excitement for Horizons after hearing the last single, High Lights. If possible, this has taken my level of excitement up so high I'm soaring through the clouds. It is available right now via all the platforms. iTunes, Amazon and Spotify for starters.

THE BOXER REBELLION 

KNOCK OUT ALL OPPONENTS

OMG! AMAZING band! SENSATIONAL music! I love The Boxer Rebellion like you would not believe and yet they are still relatively new to me. I have Chris from The Scholars to thank for pointing me in their direction and recommending their album Union. Featuring them here just briefly to make you aware of a FREE 6-track EP they are giving away. This in return for you joining their mailing list. Given how stunning this music is, it is the least they should be requesting from you. It could be a rouse but it is a very clever one indeed. The EP features two tracks from their three previous albums in preparation for the release of their new one later this year. By signing up to the mailing list you will be notified first of any updates from the band. Those to do with the new album, videos, gig dates and tickets for these. After seeing The Last Republic play a cover of Depeche Mode's Enjoy The Silence at Truck Festival last year it took about seven or eight months for me to remove a Depeche Mode CD from the car stereo. Hearing The Boxer Rebellion's cover of that song makes me want to return it there. http://theboxerrebellion.com//

PERRY HOOD - LOST

I had fully intended to share this particular video on the last blogcast for podcast #12 but with how everything all comes down on top of me as I hurry to get them published, I did miss it. My bad, I know. This song was on Perry's second EP up on bandcamp which you can grab FREE >>here<<. You should also grab yourself his first one, Ropes. I'm a big fan of all his music but I absolutely LOVE this particular song!

Perry played at The Bullingdon Arms in Oxford last Thursday as part of an event run by New Music Connection. I'll have more details on that and hopefully some videos that will be going up soon. Not from me however. Unfortunately due to my day job, finances and the distance I was unable to get down to Oxford for it. https://www.facebook.com/perryhoodmusic

YOU CAN'T DANCE 

BUT THIS TUNE WILL MAKE YOU WANNA

Something completely different to what I usually tend to share or play. Equally magnificent though! This is another one where the band sent me a tweet to check it out. I LOVE it! It sounds so big. I love how the electronic dance sounds come together. It's akin to a quality trance track complete with breakdown, yet with better vocals. Here I sit at my laptop writing away and it has me wanting to get on up and actually dance. Without having had a alcoholic drink to boot! I'm looking forward to more from You Can't Dance and will be sharing more in due course. Now say BYE and get up and dance. Download it for FREE too.

I guess what I really loved when I heard this was how it isn't like the run of the mill stuff that is out there in this genre already. That is the most important thing and should help these guys distinguish themselves from the rest. https://www.facebook.com/youcantdancemusic

COMO BROTHERS ENTER STILL WATERS

Sorry, I'm a little late sharing this one too. I did play Parachute on podcast #13, which although I'm still yet to get the blogcast up online at least the podcast is available. I'm working as fast as I can but in the meantime I just had to share these fantastic songs from The Como Brothers Band's recently released EP Still Waters. This is quality music of the highest calibre. It is all very much self-produced and independent to the core as well. Their achievements are astounding quite frankly. 

Free Music Player for Myspace at ReverbNation.com

While relaxing and enjoying these top tunes please please please lend your support and vote for these guys to play the Warped Tour. You can do this by visiting this BATTLE OF THE BANDS page >>here<< and following the instructions. The members of the band will be hugely grateful to you. As with almost ALL the artists I feature, they rely on your kind support to get them further and further with their music and they don't forget this. It is what makes them different and better than many of the 'top' bands who are signed to big labels.

Back to their astounding achievements thus far. There's more to come as their music is about to feature on the premiere of MTV's Real World Portland - March 27th. http://www.comobrothersband.com/

A LITTLE BIT OF MICROLOVE - SUMMA

More on this band another time as this post is turning into a longer one than the blogcasts. Typical me isn't it? A few things to share becomes a mountain of things to share. After hearing this only today I just have to include it though because it is lashings more of the beautiful Q-word - QUALITY! A stunning and breathtaking song. This bodes extremely well for Summa's future. http://summamusic.com/

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT

To bring things to a close I've opted to share an episode of a Vlog I've recently started following. Or should that be vlogisode rather than episode? Mere details.....Daniel Kai is an all-round entertainer who also happens to be a part of a new musical project called Waiting For Hollywood. More on the band side of things another time as I should be able to bring you an EXCLUSIVE live acoustic performance.

This vlogisode is of the utmost importance to EVERYONE in the WHOLE world so please make sure you watch it, take down the crucial zombie survival tips and then share it on.

I too, happen to be a huge geek for The Walking Dead. I think it is the utter grimness I seem to love so much. And of course watching people get eaten to death alive. I don't quite know what that says about me but there it is. Kai's take on it here is hilarious and the characters he slots in throughout demonstrate how talented he is at this entertainment business. 

Don't forget - take down these tips! Geeks like us know what we're talking about when it comes to this. When it comes to Z-Day (Zombie Apocalypse (and you know it is a when, not an if)) we will no longer be laughed at. We will be the ones who survive the longest. Hopefully. Maybe.....Erm..... Whatever happens, you're more likely to survive after watching this awesome video than if you don't watch it. Do the sensible thing and hit subscribe to Its Daniel Kai when you've watched and shared it.

One thing that sticks with me - NEVER LISTEN TO MICHAEL JACKSON's THRILLER!! Musical dancing zombies are even more freaky!

Until next time folks, blogcast #13 - ciao. Unless of course Z-Day arrives. *shudders*

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BAND OF BADGERS PRESENTS...12 TUNES OF CHRISTMAS...WELL NOT QUITE.

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 website http://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.

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BAND OF BADGERS PRESENTS...#10

SUBSCRIBE TO BAND OF BADGERS PRESENTS VIA ITUNES BY CLICKING HERE

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Howdy then folks. Welcome to the blogcast for the latest podcast, the tenth, no less! Apologies it's been a while to get this one completed but as I mentioned in a previous post, I am trying to get ahead with recording the podcasts so I can keep up a decent amount to air via Acoustic Spectrum. This one is likely to have its regular two plays before I get #11 finished for it. #11 is indeed all ready to record but that blogcast will be another few weeks away at the very least. The songs for #12 are also now all in and they're coming in fast and furious for #13. In between these I also have another special show lined up. How would you like to hear a mix of some classic favourites with one or two recent gems? It means I get to play some golden classics but it will of course be for streaming only. Still, it will be available nonetheless. Do I have some great tunes lined up for that one. I'm sure you're going to really enjoy it.

It may well transpire due to licensing and all that jazz (not actual jazz you understand, but feel free to do jazz hands every time jazz gets written. That's four lots now. I'm watching. Come on, get in the spirit of things peoples!), that I can only let that special show play via Acoustic Spectrum so make sure you tune in at 7pm (GMT - feels so strange after using BST for so long) on Thursdays or you will miss out. Then I will let my cat at you. She's a mean one too. This is due to her age you understand, and not necessarily her nature. She's like a Cylon, The Rani and Servalan all rolled up into one fluffy bundle. Okay, I apologise to any non-sci-fi geeks out there who will have no idea what that means, or indeed how bad it will be if I let my cat out at you. So, best way to avoid finding out is to tune in to the show at Acoustic Spectrum and listen to those classics. I anticipate it will be a few weeks before it gets played as I am hoping to get #11 sorted for next Thursday (8th November) because I have a few new singles to play. I will however try and keep you posted via twitter. If you're not following me on there then you can find me @roberto_baggins where you can see all the rubbish I tweet all the time.

Before cracking on I'm going to ask you for a wee favour (in addition to visiting and listening to the podcast, yes but stick with me). Thanks to the lovely New Zealand singer-songwriter Julie Lamb, I discovered there's a European Podcast Awards. She kindly asked if my podcast was entered into it which, given I'd never heard of the thing it wasn't and so I said I'd check it out. Having done so I decided to propose Band of Badgers Presents for nominations. Scary stuff! Now, I know given the number of podcasts out there in the category (Personality) and how wonderfully amazing people make them, I have little chance of winning. However, as a typical never win anything kind of guy I'm well on the 'It's the taking part that's fun' bus.

I'm aware there are still a couple of issues with my sound quality, mostly with my speaking parts. And no, I don't mean me having a 'cold voice' on this particular episode.

There is some horrid echo thing going on I can't seem to eliminate. I am working on it but I do use a simple free software program to mix things. I paid for Wavepad but not knowing what I was doing, I failed to pay the right price to get the mixing capability. Yes, I know I am a tech fool. The pittance I get paid doesn't stretch to me rectifying this situation any time soon I'm afraid. I've already cancelled Christmas, effectively. If I won this I'd get software I believe but even if not I'm on it soon as I can afford to upgrade my Wavepad. My point is (yes I do have one, cheeky), that I'm aware of this little niggle in sound quality but if you enjoy the podcast, like what I ramble on about at times and the information about the artists and bands I give out; and more importantly if you like the music I offer you each time, then please stop by and vote for me. I will be ever so grateful. So will Valerie. 'Valerie who?' I hear you ask. Valerie, the banjo playing badger of course! Even if you don't vote I am still sincerely grateful for you reading this far with how much I digress from the point most of the time. Thank you!

After all that waffle (mmmm, waffles) let's get on with it!

The Playlist:

1. Our Forgotten Towns - The Levellers
2. This Isn't What I Signed Up For - Turnstile Junkpile
3. A Proud Surrender - Trevor Moss & Hannah Lou
4. Before The Dawn - Mat Gibson
5. Lonely Boy (Live Cover) - Luke Jackson
6. Dance Keith, Dance - The Cakes
7. Another Acid Day - Art Of Privilege
8. Lovefool - Grimsell in the Glasshouse
9. End Game - Umbrella Harbor
10. Summertime - Gypsy Fire
11. Deliverance - The Silent Union

The Levellers

What can I possibly add about this bunch of guys? They have been with me since 1997 so naturally they occupy a very special place in my musical life and their importance on my musical journey goes beyond words. It's unfortunate I'm not going to have been to a show this year but it means I will have to try and make it to at least two next year. Although in 2011 I was able to get to about five. Or was that 2010? Whichever year it was, I think I’ve made up for missing one this year. No excuses for missing Beautiful Days though so I will certainly be on that next year. Staying in a camper van if my Band of Badgers Presents Camper Van Festival Tour proposal is successful. Fingers crossed. Actually, everything crossed. I'll keep you updated but I have sent it out to a few places already. Not finished by a long shot.

The Levs rarely break from touring. I imagine they’ve clocked up millions of miles over the years but their shows are always full of their army of fans and just where they get their energy from is anyone's guess. I wouldn't mind some if it's going, though. We fans are more of a family really as everyone gets on so well. I recall I’d had a fair bit to drink at a 2009 gig in Northampton although I wasn’t too drunk. I was moshing away to one of the songs, I don’t remember which one specifically but as I pulled my arm up to punch the air I whacked some poor guy in the face. He just smiled and patted my back. I felt terrible of course but grateful I didn’t get punched back. It wasn’t like I did it on purpose but can you just imagine doing that at most other gigs? Even by accident. There’d be a riot! Perhaps I’m exaggerating and I suppose it does depend on the type of gig it is, the band and the fanbase. At these gigs, I always feel like I'm amongst friends.

Anyway, The Levs are going strong and are most likely working on songs for their next album even as they whizz around Europe and soon the UK. Static on the Airwaves might only have been released this year but these guys are always on the move. What’s great is they never forget their old tunes when touring either. They are crowd pleasers at the core but even so pretty much most, if not all of their new stuff is bang on with their trademark quality. They champion new up and coming talent too. It was on one of their tours I got introduced to The Last Republic who alas, are no more for various reasons. See below for a mention of that devastating news.  I think the above video of Raft of Medusa, also from the latest album and filmed at this year's Beautiful Days Festival demonstrates the reasons for their longevity rather well.

Turnstile Junkpile

I've still not managed to get my review written of this band's fantastic debut album, Everything Is Cheaper Than It Looks. I need a slap. Or more time. May I go with the more time option please? With it being less painful and all that. Seriously though, check out the rest of the tunes from this album because Turnstile, to me, are quite unlike anything else out there. It's like a huge infusion of so many of the great things about americana, alternative country, soft rock and so much more I could probably list for days if I was to include all the little sub-genres and nods to various styles within their repetoire. And that is just from this album alone. I bet they have so many more tricks hiding inside their instrument cases which they relish in bringing out for a live audience. In other words, get yourself to a show if you can. It will be totally more than worth it.

In The Morning popped itself on to my iPod shuffle at work today and it made for a much better day, it must be said. Its delightful gentle dinkle danklin' banjo aside, I think there's an influence of The Beatles on this particular track. And why not? The Fab Four seem to have inspired so many bands and artists spanning across numerous genres. I'm just guessing at the specifics of the influence though as I may be totally wrong. The title track is itself a wonderful bluesy jazz mix with added banjo. It is sublime.Then the likes of Wishing Well gets the shoulders moving, building up to a stonking little electric guitar solo. One of the many awesome such solos. Hit play above and enjoy!

Gigswise (that should so be a word - I'll write to the dictionary peeps), they are supporting another of my recent favourites, The Dreaming Spires on two dates of their forthcoming tour. Wednesday 7th November at the Wilmington Arms before heading to The Palmiera in Brighton on Friday 9th. I should then be seeing The Spires on their date in Oxford on Saturday 10th before the Tom McRae gig on Sunday 11th. There should also be a Kate Rusby gig in Northampton on that Friday for me so that will be one gigged up weekend for me. I won't want to go back to anything less than three per weekend after that I expect. I knew there was something uber important I had to get on with now I've been paid. Find affordable accommodation in Oxford for that Saturday night. It's not proving an easy task it must be said. Perhaps Trevor and Hannah may be up for renting out their Leyland Campervan for the night?

Trevor Moss & Hannah Lou

This duo really mesmerized me with their a cappella version of Nebraska for the recent Nebraska Sessions organised by the great Clubhouse Records. You can watch all the videos recorded for that project >>here<<. You should also keep your eyes peeled for the digital release of that album coming soon although I will of course keep you posted as and when news comes in.

Trevor and Hannah are releasing videos of them recording each of the tracks from their forthcoming album, La Femme De Fontenaille - released 5th November. It looks and sounds stunning and the excitement in me is building up to epic proportions. For the time nears when I will get to see them perform. They are quite within their rights to slap me for missing what I imagine was a superb set at Truck Festival back in July. Supporting TomMcRae on several dates of his solo tour I’m seeing them in Oxford. The duo then head out on their very own headline tour entitled Up The Club. This sees them tour a number of Social Clubs around the UK. This is a real treat, bringing great quality live music to the people. If they're playing a club near you, then get your tickets >>here<<. At just £5 per ticket, it is a wonderfully affordable evening of pure musical quality for you and the family.

If you are new to this sensational duo I have a distinct feeling the above video of the recording of fifth track on their album, Grand Tales In Tired Covers will have you salivating like a dog in a Pavlov experiment gone very wrong. Umbrellas will be required for all around you until you grab what is going to be an album of the year for sure!

Mat Gibson

WOW! Yes folks, this guy is one of those that requires the instant WOW! With an amazing voice, outstanding lyrics and an album brimming with superb quality tunes what more can you ask for? Long Goner is available to buy via Bandcamp for just £5. Just a little fiver. That's the blue paper one. Come on. Payday just hit and Mat deserves payment for such stellar work. That voice! WOW. I'm at it again. WOWing like I've been hit with the WOW stick or something. The opening track, Before The Dawn, which is the one I played on the show sets things off nicely. Did I say set? I can do better than that surely? Okay then, it doesn't set things off nicely. It kicks them off with a gale force power other artists can only dream of. The crispness to the sound blows the mind. Recorded in an old pump house near Shepperton on Thames, Mat really did capture the sonic depth he mentions, fully utilising the naturally large open space. Hit play and hear for yourselves but I warn you buckle up because it will suck you through a vortex with that gale force power I mentioned and you won't return until the closing notes of the final track.

Mat has other albums up for sale that are worth your time as well. 2011's Forest Fire is notably different but only in it sounds less atmospheric. This is not a criticism however because it is still chocked full to bursting with tunes of the highest quality. The overall sound comes down more on the americana side of things and those phenomenal vocals are present in all their glory. There's even a FREE download from this record for you so check this out below. BUT, please check out the rest of the album while you're at it too. I will be keeping a close eye on Mat over the next year. Not in a stalkery way, he'll be glad to hear but in the hope I can see him play live at some point.

Luke Jackson

As I recently wrote and published a full review of Luke's headline gig I just wanted to refer you to that >>here<< for more. As explained, it is from this show the recording I played is taken. I will mention again that Luke is currently on tour supporting Martyn Joseph so I urge you not to miss out on one heck of a great performance.  

The Cakes

Checking out the tunes of this band following Alex's kind comments on one of the posts on this blog, I was well impressed with what was presented to my ears. They sound like they should be played on mainstream radio. By that I mean the good stations and shows, playing proper real music like theirs. Dance Keith, Dance sounds like an indie anthem akin to those greats from the mid to late 90's in my opinion. It doesn't sound like it belongs to that time, however. It is fresh and contemporary, a tune for today but it just has the kind of quality from some bands of that time. Quite frankly, I'm amazed The Cakes aren't more well-known because they damn well should be. Their sense of humour rivals the funniest comedians too by the way. It's always nice when musicians succeed in actually being funny as opposed to those who just try but are so bad at it they deserve to have tomatoes thrown at them for their shocking puns and pathetic punchlines. Merely reading about how this band split up for a year because of the location issue (read it for a laugh) and how their main interests are Bacon, Cake, Cake Bacon, had me wishing I was at a gig right now. I cannot see this humour not translating to the stage to give audiences one heck of a fun time. With amazing music, to boot! Make sure you download some free tracks from their Reverbnation page. Quarantine is a pure delight too and I love how different it is to Dance, Keith Dance.

Art of Privilege

It's not all about softness and folk of course, as much as I love that. So, to satisfy the harder side of my musical likes, there's this Scottish hard rock band. Art of Privilege have been nominated for 'Best Rock Act' in the Online Music Awards so if you enjoy their sound why not help them out by voting for them via this >>link<<. Award season really is upon us isn't it? Voting for these great guys as well as for the podcast in the European Podcast Awards (nudge nudge, wink wink). The band's first single The Crawler is available via iTunes so click >>here<< to get your copy. You can sample the banging video for it below.

Grimsell in the Glasshouse

What struck me instantly from Rob Hirst's latest project in Grimsell in the Glasshouse, is the sheer diversity in the tracks up on their soundcloud page. What is being offered demonstrates the difference in styles these guys are capable of producing and this is something to keep their output fresh. It is progressive and experimental. Well worth checking out. The Acoustic tracks Lovefool and Emily are available via a mountain of sites including Spotify and iTunes.

Umbrella Harbor

Justin Waylon Morgan plays some rather good piano. The fact he pieces things together and just let's it come to him, is astonishing. Especially when the results are sounds like this. It's really great to just relax to or as I do, write to. His compositions can act as an inspiring soundtrack helping to break open those rusted locks to the doors within the creative areas of my mind. All of his music is available for free via his soundcloud page so do check out what's up there. Even for those of you who think instrumental alone isn't your kind of thing. Give it a try. You'll be surprised how hearing something as deep and inspiring as this will open you up to so many other areas of music. Justin says he does it for the enjoyment of it but with a talent like this he has to break into it professionally in some way in the future I'm sure of it! It is only a matter of time before someone discovers him. I know he wants to move to New York and being just a young chap his life is fully ahead. I think his future is going to be bright and involve music quite heavily. Who needs psychics? Thanks for the awesome music, mate and thanks for being a really interesting Twitter friend.

The Silent Union

Although only having a two track EP out at present, acquiring the talented vocal talents of Jay Tennant has meant The Silent Union are able to crack on with an ever-growing collection of songs which will serve for near-future recordings. With their infectious, atmospheric indie rock sound, Deliverance and Hurricane demonstrate their capabilities with flair and passion. It's exciting to be there at the birth of something special like this and I'm looking forward to hearing much more from this band over the coming months. You can download their Acoustic EP for free via soundcloud.

There's a wonderful review of this EP to which I refer you, on another music blog. As well as reading this one, the others up there are pretty impressive too. I'll be checking in to read more from Grahame at Indie Band Land in the future because what he has to say is well worth listening to. Technically it is what he has to write about music is well worth reading and taking notice of. That's for you purists out there.

Moving Along...

Sam Beeton

Nottingham's super sensational singer-songwriter Sam Beeton has a new track out! The latest addition to Season 2 of his Record Club dropped through the door one recent Saturday morning. It's always a great day to receive new tunes, particularly on a lazy relaxing Saturday. Well, I say lazy but I'm writing up parts of this so not technically completely lazy. Born At The End kicked my day off perfectly, as did this wonderful acoustic version filmed in a rescued Methodist chapel at the Tilford Rural Life Centre during Weyfest Music Festival. There's no explanation about what the chapel was rescued from exactly. An alien attack is possible but unlikely, I guess. Maybe it was rescued from an army of Fraggles?

As can be expected from Sam, the quality is phenomenal and that alone is reason enough for you to go join Season 2 of the Record Club right now. For full details click >>here<<. Or if you'd like a free song first to whet your appetites then click >>here<<. There's little doubt you'll be joining up to the club soon enough after hearing this and his other tunetastic treats.

The Fall of the Republic 

Recording this episode of the podcast has taken such a long time because as I mentioned I had to get it done in between sobbing fits at me having to miss the Dry The River gig I’d been waiting for these past six months. That sad sorry state of affairs is not all that caused these painful, heart-wrenching sobs. It was announced a few weeks ago that welsh indie rock band The Last Republic are to be no more. The Republic has fallen into ruin and disarray. Now I can appreciate what it must have felt like in Rome when everything went tits up. I feel like I should have been more prepared as band lead, Jonnie had been talking excitedly about working on a solo project for a good few weeks prior to this devastating news. Even so, I would still have been shocked. As it was, I was devastated. To lose such a great sounding band who come together so amazingly and offered up such tightly constructed music is a bitter blow. Their debut album Parade is a tour de force of what other bands should be doing if they wish to get it right and have any longevity.

Their reasons for disbanding are many and varied of course. They had a member leave which as a cohesive unit would naturally leave a bit of a gaping hole to the remaining members. I imagine with some bands, more so those formed of close friends or even perhaps when it isn’t so at the beginning but it becomes as much. Sometimes when one leaves, others wish to follow or lose the spark that unified the whole. It isn't always the case but when it is, I understand it is best to walk away than continue without the fire and passion that made it so great. Then there’s how incredibly tough it is to make a living doing it these days. The music business is broken. In the recent interview I posted on the blog with Adrian Banks from The Scholars, he described it perfectly with those words about it being broken at present and how it is working itself out. It means there isn’t much trust out there for investment in new bands and music making is a hundred times tougher than years gone by. Even with the advent of the internet and social networks, if the money and investment isn't there then self-promotion can only reach so far.

The guys did have some new tunes they were working on and recorded earlier in the year with a view to releasing them as a band. They were bloody good tunes too!! I could cry I tell thee. I’m just really glad I got to see them one last time at Truck Festival in July. Naturally I wish all members of the band well in whatever pursuits they follow and urge you to check out Jonnie’s solo project Bloodflower up on Facebook and Soundcloud. 

Bloodflower

I’m really looking forward to more from Jonnie in the future and I will be keeping you posted. There’s one song up on the Bloodflower soundcloud page at the moment. If you’re expecting a mere solo version of the band with Indigo then you’re in for a big surprise. A very pleasant big surprise though. With Indigo you get something completely new although with a note of the distinct Jonnie vocals. It is awesome stuff and has already been played on BBC Radio Wales so congratulations Jonnie on breaking out there with only having just got this track recorded and shared. I believe there are more recordings in the bag and waiting to be unleashed. Bring them on, I say!

Angel Kelly

I simply have to share this latest song with you from the wonderful Angel Kelly and while I apologise if it makes you cry, it is totally worth it. Initially written as a poem for one of her very close friends' birthday, Angel sang it at that friend's Celebration of Life when she was laid to rest last year. It pulls at the heart to know of this and it makes what you experience all the more poignant and heartfelt. It really is a celebration of that friendship though and will leave you more with tears of happiness than sadness. Sombre tears of happiness, you might call them. It is quite simply one of the most beautiful songs I've had the pleasure of hearing. There are more tunes for you on Angel's website so do check those out as you pass by.

Brooke Sharkey

Thanks to Never Enough Press I've been introduced to the incredibly interesting Brooke Sharkey. There's a hint of Bjork to this folk-infused sound but it does twist and turn far beyond that one comparison. Again, it can be hard to put your finger on exactly what it should belong to but then I'm not one for pigeon-holing anyway, in spite of having to sometimes label things up for whatever reason. It is refreshing to get something so strikingly original and distinct as this. There's stardom ahead that's for sure. I can totally see Brooke singing out one of the tunes from the smashing debut album, One Dress - Out 5th December - on Later With Jools Holland. I have had a sneaky listen to the album and can confirm it is going to set the music world alight. The quality of music is sublime, with string arrangements so exquisite you'll think you're listening to a whole orchestra at some points. Then there's that wonderful vocal sound. Believe me, this girl is going places! Feel free to grab yourself a copy of the free downloadable track below and please do share it because music this good needs to get out there to as many ears as possible.

Brooke has just landed, or more likely sailed or trained, back in the UK following a stint of live gigs in France where she whiled away her teenage years. There was probably less whiling than I suggest here. She admits drawing on influences such as Billie Holiday, Edith Piaf and Bob Dylan, with more coming from 30's to 70's music than much of the contemporary stuff. Joanna Newsom is one of the more recent artists to have left a mark however. Now, I remember seeing Joanna on an episode of Jools Holland's show a few years back and I believe it would be impossible for anyone to not be in some way affected by the ethereal performance she gives. It is out of this world. Angelic. A pure delight. Citing the likes of Dylan and Newsom (hmm, think of what that double act could produce) then, I must say I'm excited to see Brooke perform live. I'm afraid a mixture of geography and finances will prevent me from doing so but it should certainly not stop you, if you are anywhere near the places she's stopping by on her November UK tour. The dates are listed below so please get along and support a truly remarkable artist!

There's also an album launch party on 5th December at St Pancras Old Church in London. I would so love to attend that but the same old story of geography, day job and lack of money will hinder me. I don't believe I'll have chance to write a full review of One Dress in time for the release but I will do my best to get something written down and up online over the coming weeks if you want my opinion. I absolutely love what I've heard so far! I'll also be playing His Voice on Band of Badgers Presents...#11.

UK Shows - November:

1st - The Revelry, Essex

2nd - Inside Out, Sidmouth

3rd - The Grapevine, Exmouth

6th - The Golden Lion, Bristol

8th - Porters Wine Bar, Hastings

11th - Onetaste Festival, The Bedford, Balham, London

15th - Pegs + Pans, The Vintage Emporium, London

18th - Glad Residency, The Gladstone, Borough, Lonon

To borrow a rather well-known phrase:

'And Now For Something Completely Different'

Now stick with me just for a wee little moment. Sit back, hit play and enjoy something that I think you'll agree verges on the surreal side of things. Yes it is. Fraggles. The little fuzzy creatures that live in 'the rock caves' under that lighthouse somewhere yonder. And yes, it is indeed Ben Folds Five reunited and playing a new tune, Do It Anyway featuring those fraggles. Mad isn't it? Good? What are your thoughts? I must admit I actually quite enjoyed it but remain unsure if it should be kept locked away in the vaults of my musical mind as a guilty pleasure. I will admit one thing. I want one of those Boy Gorg t-shirts. And now, thank you please!

 

'And Now For Something Even More Completely Different'

It is not my intention to cause any controversy and I sincerely hope you see the funny side in the below. I think it is hilarious and love its crazy madness. Enjoy! No, I know it has absolutely nothing to do with music but just imagine the soundtrack one could create to this. Great stuff, hope you like it too.

I do believe it is time to wrap up. The cold aside, it is time to bring this blogcast to a close. Haha, I am too funny. I know I'm not, don't worry. I am not taking up comedy. By the time this is published I'll most likely have #11 recorded or pretty much almost finished so you'll be able to hear that on Acoustic Spectrum at the usual time, although it will now be GMT as opposed to BST. I'm reminded by this due to the fact it is not much beyond 16:30 yet it is already getting dark. By the shortest day we may as well just stay in bed. Is the Earth moving in other ways do we think? Surely it shouldn't be this dark yet? Anyway, as always I digress. Where was I? Oh yes. As well as having #11 good to go,  all the tunes for #12 in place and #13 coming along nicely, I have about 4 special episodes planned. Organisation station - get in. Well, I shouldn't blow any trumpets or signal the fanfare just yet because a lot can happen in the next half hour so Stingray informed me.

I will sign off now so I can get on with finishing off my review of Glimore & Roberts' latest album, The Innocent Left which will also feature a little review of the awesome gig I went to last Saturday. An amazing night, an amazing album from two amazing musicians. The Innocent Left is OUT NOW and you can purchase a copy >>here<< or if iTunes is your thing then visit >>here<<. The official video for the opening track Scarecrow is below.  

Thanks for listening and reading and thanks as always to Marc Blasco for the opening theme to the podcast. Until next time, peace to you all.

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