Hi,
Just a short post today introducing you to a great little band called Chiisai Ashi.
You can buy their EP on bandcamp HERE or follow them on twitter @ChaiisaiAshi.
Chiisai Ashi are an indie-rock, alternative band from Derbyshire. They have a gorgeous electric rock sound with "Little Bird" as a beautiful acoustic, gentle track showing off the vocal talent and writing ability of the siblings. There are two vocalists, who offset each others grungey, youthful tones with seemingly effortless harmony. The raw, rock sound of this pair is something I've not heard before, their debut EP is an amazing starting point for a band that I hope will go far!
Friday, 27 June 2014
Tuesday, 24 June 2014
Klaxons- Love frequency
Hi,
Klaxons' long anticipated new album "love frequency" came out a few days ago. You can buy it on iTunes for £7.99 or listen on spotify or on soundcloud HERE. This is the 'present' album in their trilogy of past, present and future albums so it was always going to be very difficult to predict how this one was going to turn out, they haven't done an awful job but I'm still a little disappointed with some of the tracks.
Tracklist
1) A new reality
2) There is no other time
3) Show me a miracle
4) Out of the dark
5) Children of the sun
6) Invisible forces
7) Rhythm of life
8) Liquid light
9) The dreamers
10) Atom to atom
11) Love frequency
It's a house style, electro beat, dance album but not the experimental, scuzzy, old-school electronics that we're used to with Klaxons. "Children of the sun" has some nice indie-rock electronic melodies and typical klaxons space age soundscape with a lot of varied verses and interesting harmonies. Some of the tracks aren't even recognizable as klaxons anymore. "There is no other time" is 70s disco music, while it played I imagined cheesey top of the pops dancing with flared jeans and a mullet! I struggled to listen to this song to the end. "The dreamers" however is smooth and lovely with poetic lyrics that are pleasing to listen to and a beautiful intro that really contrasts with the pop club beats of some of the other tracks. Songs like "invisible forces" seem to have lost the klaxons-esque ambiguous meanings and interesting sounds and word structure. The keyboard in this song and others is a nice effect and is the closest to a real instrument that we get to on this album. I'm not a fan of exclusively computer generated music.
I am a little disappointed at the long anticipated release of "Love frequency", but maybe that's partly due to the fact that I had high expectations and have been waiting a long time. It definitely wasn't what I expected but it isn't bad for what it's trying to do. Some of the tracks have gone off the rails and are a bit too pop for my tastes but they haven't done such a bad job at a dance record in its own right. I'm not sure how big klaxons fans will take this album though. 6/10
Klaxons' long anticipated new album "love frequency" came out a few days ago. You can buy it on iTunes for £7.99 or listen on spotify or on soundcloud HERE. This is the 'present' album in their trilogy of past, present and future albums so it was always going to be very difficult to predict how this one was going to turn out, they haven't done an awful job but I'm still a little disappointed with some of the tracks.
Tracklist
1) A new reality
2) There is no other time
3) Show me a miracle
4) Out of the dark
5) Children of the sun
6) Invisible forces
7) Rhythm of life
8) Liquid light
9) The dreamers
10) Atom to atom
11) Love frequency
It's a house style, electro beat, dance album but not the experimental, scuzzy, old-school electronics that we're used to with Klaxons. "Children of the sun" has some nice indie-rock electronic melodies and typical klaxons space age soundscape with a lot of varied verses and interesting harmonies. Some of the tracks aren't even recognizable as klaxons anymore. "There is no other time" is 70s disco music, while it played I imagined cheesey top of the pops dancing with flared jeans and a mullet! I struggled to listen to this song to the end. "The dreamers" however is smooth and lovely with poetic lyrics that are pleasing to listen to and a beautiful intro that really contrasts with the pop club beats of some of the other tracks. Songs like "invisible forces" seem to have lost the klaxons-esque ambiguous meanings and interesting sounds and word structure. The keyboard in this song and others is a nice effect and is the closest to a real instrument that we get to on this album. I'm not a fan of exclusively computer generated music.
I am a little disappointed at the long anticipated release of "Love frequency", but maybe that's partly due to the fact that I had high expectations and have been waiting a long time. It definitely wasn't what I expected but it isn't bad for what it's trying to do. Some of the tracks have gone off the rails and are a bit too pop for my tastes but they haven't done such a bad job at a dance record in its own right. I'm not sure how big klaxons fans will take this album though. 6/10
Sunday, 22 June 2014
Port Isla- Steamroller
Hi,
So today's post is introducing you to an up and coming band that I think will be big called Port Isla. They are a 4 piece indie band from Norwich. You can listen to their new EP "Steamroller" HERE. They have recently been touring with George Ezra and I picked up the last copy of their EP at the leadmill in Sheffield. Which is a great venue by the way and they have some really good people playing soon, so click HERE to have a look.
These guys are indie-folk with acoustic and electric tracks. The vocals are folk rocky and casual in a rounded kind of way. They have a rehearsed full sound and the three tracks are diverse with different but equally good styles.
Tracklist:
1) Steamroller- this is an upbeat folk-y song with prominent drum rhythms and a country swing with the banjo and harmonies. The chorus and the vocal melody are so catchy and the harmonies are used to a great effect.
2) Next in line- this is a more rock and electric song where the vocals are more raw and the piano is more in the foreground with an indie-rock input. The lyrics in this are again sparse and not hugely inspiring but fit well and have a good tune to them.
3) Simple sunrise- this is an acoustic gentle track where the vocals are more exposed and where some bands fall because they can't hide behind noise and crazy rhythms. But Port Isla have more than proved themselves in this track with gorgeous poetic lyrics like "and that simple sunrise much like a drawing by a child is right in front of me" and the incredible harmonies made up of the right mixture of strong and slightly clashy chords to add interest. The details in this track are put together really well making it my favourite on the EP.
So today's post is introducing you to an up and coming band that I think will be big called Port Isla. They are a 4 piece indie band from Norwich. You can listen to their new EP "Steamroller" HERE. They have recently been touring with George Ezra and I picked up the last copy of their EP at the leadmill in Sheffield. Which is a great venue by the way and they have some really good people playing soon, so click HERE to have a look.
These guys are indie-folk with acoustic and electric tracks. The vocals are folk rocky and casual in a rounded kind of way. They have a rehearsed full sound and the three tracks are diverse with different but equally good styles.
Tracklist:
1) Steamroller- this is an upbeat folk-y song with prominent drum rhythms and a country swing with the banjo and harmonies. The chorus and the vocal melody are so catchy and the harmonies are used to a great effect.
2) Next in line- this is a more rock and electric song where the vocals are more raw and the piano is more in the foreground with an indie-rock input. The lyrics in this are again sparse and not hugely inspiring but fit well and have a good tune to them.
3) Simple sunrise- this is an acoustic gentle track where the vocals are more exposed and where some bands fall because they can't hide behind noise and crazy rhythms. But Port Isla have more than proved themselves in this track with gorgeous poetic lyrics like "and that simple sunrise much like a drawing by a child is right in front of me" and the incredible harmonies made up of the right mixture of strong and slightly clashy chords to add interest. The details in this track are put together really well making it my favourite on the EP.
Friday, 20 June 2014
Fake Club
Hi,
Sorry its been so long I've just been crazy busy as it was exam season but that's over now and hopefully I'll have a lot more time for posting.
I'll be introducing you to probably my favorite band at the moment. They are a five-piece, all female, English rock band. They recently featured in an MJ Delaney film Powder Room (which is great and worth a watch). The band appeared in the film, performing music they'd written, including some songs created specifically for the film. The band were also responsible for the selection of all other tracks used in the film.
Sorry its been so long I've just been crazy busy as it was exam season but that's over now and hopefully I'll have a lot more time for posting.
I'll be introducing you to probably my favorite band at the moment. They are a five-piece, all female, English rock band. They recently featured in an MJ Delaney film Powder Room (which is great and worth a watch). The band appeared in the film, performing music they'd written, including some songs created specifically for the film. The band were also responsible for the selection of all other tracks used in the film.
They have a beautiful raw rock sound emphasized by the crazy crashing noisy drums that would sound amazing live and give a rounded shape to the music they play. But the heavy jumpy bass and jerky electric guitar add sharp rough edges that stick out with a grace and feminine confidence in themselves similar to Kate Nash. They convey a huge sense of confidence and assertiveness that comes across so strong it makes you want to shout out of a window along to the lyrics! The vocalist has an amazing tone that I've not heard anything like before, its raw and punchy. The raspy, throaty sounds are grungey and scuzzy with roughed up edges that fit perfectly with the grungey punk rock they play. The tone really makes this band unique and gives them their stamp. Their amazing lyrics also stand them apart from the rest and give them the originality that makes them what they are. They spit out inspirational, wonderful lyrics 10 a penny.
These girls are just incredible!
Tuesday, 1 April 2014
iTunes Single of the week #15
Hi,
This week the free download on iTunes was "A Lunar Veteran's guide to Re-entry" by Paul Thomas Saunders.
Paul Thomas Saunders is a physch and indie one man band from Leeds, England. He says he is influenced by people like Joe Meek, The Tornadoes, Emo Phillips and Lou Reed.
Review:
This is very much a phsych song, with haunting electro twirls and acoustic guitar twanging in an almost folky way. Although the music and vocals are most definitely not folk! The space age soundscape creates amazing effects, the vocals are distant and soft with mesmerizing tones and a mysterious edge. You need really good speakers or headphones to listen to this song because the surround sound and potential for a 3D sounding track are used to their full extent by Saunders. There is a fabulous soundscape created in this song which is great to relax and listen to.
Overall, this is a really well crafted piece of music 9/10
This week the free download on iTunes was "A Lunar Veteran's guide to Re-entry" by Paul Thomas Saunders.
Paul Thomas Saunders is a physch and indie one man band from Leeds, England. He says he is influenced by people like Joe Meek, The Tornadoes, Emo Phillips and Lou Reed.
Review:
This is very much a phsych song, with haunting electro twirls and acoustic guitar twanging in an almost folky way. Although the music and vocals are most definitely not folk! The space age soundscape creates amazing effects, the vocals are distant and soft with mesmerizing tones and a mysterious edge. You need really good speakers or headphones to listen to this song because the surround sound and potential for a 3D sounding track are used to their full extent by Saunders. There is a fabulous soundscape created in this song which is great to relax and listen to.
Overall, this is a really well crafted piece of music 9/10
Saturday, 29 March 2014
The Rumble Strips- Girls and Weather
Hi,
Today's post will be about a band that you probably know some of their songs but may not have heard of before. I'll be introducing you to their album "Girls and Weather". This is definitely my album of the month!
Background Info:
The Rumble Strips were a 5 piece indie-pop/rock, soul English band from Tavistock, Devon. The band took their name from rumble strips, which are small, continuous lines of bumps along the edge of a road. They went their separate ways in 2009. You can buy their album on iTunes HERE for £5.99 and other album "Welcome to the walk alone" HERE for £5.99. You can stream some of their music HERE
Today's post will be about a band that you probably know some of their songs but may not have heard of before. I'll be introducing you to their album "Girls and Weather". This is definitely my album of the month!
Background Info:
The Rumble Strips were a 5 piece indie-pop/rock, soul English band from Tavistock, Devon. The band took their name from rumble strips, which are small, continuous lines of bumps along the edge of a road. They went their separate ways in 2009. You can buy their album on iTunes HERE for £5.99 and other album "Welcome to the walk alone" HERE for £5.99. You can stream some of their music HERE
This album is a gorgeous blend of indie-pop and rock with soul and jazz managing to worm its way in there too. Their catchy rhythms and wonderful story-telling lyrics paired with the infectious, lyrical melodies make all the tracks so hard to get out of your head. Their music is full of funky brass and jazzy saxophone with exploding electric guitars and fabulous piano bringing it all together. Vocalist, Charlie Waller has an '80s alternative feel about him. He really gets to show off his amazing range and unpredictability in songs like Time and Building a boat. The style is kind of similar to Peace's Harrison Kossier. Great sounding lyrics are spat out by the bucket load and fit so well with the style of music and Waller's powerful, closed throat, grunge-y, scuzzy vocals. The whole of the album sounds so full of life and human that it'll all stick in your head for a long time.
Favourite Track: Clouds HERE
If you listen to girls and boys in love I bet you'll recognise it even if you don't know where from!! Its played in loads of films and TV shows. You can listen to it HERE
Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed and take the time to listen to their music!
Favourite Track: Clouds HERE
If you listen to girls and boys in love I bet you'll recognise it even if you don't know where from!! Its played in loads of films and TV shows. You can listen to it HERE
Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed and take the time to listen to their music!
Wednesday, 26 March 2014
iTunes Single of the week #14
Hi,
This week's free download was "Feel of love" by Tensnake & Jacques Lu Cont ft. Jamie Lidell.
Tensnake is a 38 year-old house and electronica music producer and DJ from Germany. Jacques Lu Cont is a 36 year-old electronic, synthpop, house and electroclash DJ, songwriter and record producer from North Yorkshire, England. Jamie Lidell is a 40 year-old soul, funk and electronica artist from Cambridgeshire, England.
Review:
This funky, electronica track is constructed with layers, adding on more slowly but surely. The steamy beats with electronic 'noises' behind the start off, then adding electric bass bringing more melody and variation. The alternative-techno vocals are brought in next. The tone of them are not to my taste as they are too high pitched, undefined and warble-y. They don't sound like they are quite right, or like thy have found their proper style yet. As there isn't much vocal melody, they aren't the main attraction which is fine when you have a strong backing to fill out the spaces and cushion the lyrics. This track doesn't have either. This is very much a '90s techno-pop track which doesn't really appeal to me.
Overall, I think this song hasn't got much cop but isn't un-listeninable. 5/10
This week's free download was "Feel of love" by Tensnake & Jacques Lu Cont ft. Jamie Lidell.
Tensnake is a 38 year-old house and electronica music producer and DJ from Germany. Jacques Lu Cont is a 36 year-old electronic, synthpop, house and electroclash DJ, songwriter and record producer from North Yorkshire, England. Jamie Lidell is a 40 year-old soul, funk and electronica artist from Cambridgeshire, England.
Review:
This funky, electronica track is constructed with layers, adding on more slowly but surely. The steamy beats with electronic 'noises' behind the start off, then adding electric bass bringing more melody and variation. The alternative-techno vocals are brought in next. The tone of them are not to my taste as they are too high pitched, undefined and warble-y. They don't sound like they are quite right, or like thy have found their proper style yet. As there isn't much vocal melody, they aren't the main attraction which is fine when you have a strong backing to fill out the spaces and cushion the lyrics. This track doesn't have either. This is very much a '90s techno-pop track which doesn't really appeal to me.
Overall, I think this song hasn't got much cop but isn't un-listeninable. 5/10
Saturday, 22 March 2014
Scruff of the Neck Records: Free Mix Tape review
Hi,
Today's post is my review of Scruff of the neck record's first mix tape which is FREE to download HERE
Tracklisting:
1. Out in the cold- Matt Fryers
2. I couldn't fall on you- Mercury field
3. St. Louis- Skinny Roller
4. Afterglow- The Reveurs
5. The Stealer- The High Nines
6. Rabbit Hole- Matt Fryers
7. Bumblebee- Mercury Field
8. Blue Dove- Skinny Roller
9. Hide & Seek- The Reveurs
10. Paupers & Kings- The High Nines
Background Info:
Scruff of the neck records are a Manchester based record company who have signed artists such as The Naughtys and Go Native. You can see more of them and download some of their bands' music HERE
Review:
1. Out in the cold- This is an indie-pop, acoustic track by 22 year old Manchester lad Matt Fryers. His vocals are raspy and sounds like they're struggling to get to the higher pitches. He is quite talented but not very unique. 5/10
2. I couldn't fall on you- Mercury field are a 5 piece rock band who are influenced by Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd among many others. This track is undoubtedly a classic rock and roll song, the first few electric chords are a give away at the first listen. A good track but again nothing too special 6.5/10.
3. St Louis- This indie/indie-rock song is by Skinny Roller who are a 4 piece indie band from Manchester. Mark Nangle's grunge-y, raspy, distressed, low pitched vocals fit perfectly with the electric minor chords, jumpy bass and light drums of this creative track! 8/10
4. Afterglow- This track is indie/indie-rock and by The Reveurs who are a 4 piece indie/rock band. The loud, powerful, full on indie-rock backing seems to drown out Gary Nelson's nasal, wobbly vocals. The vocals are undefined and not very confident even though the backing is just that. 4/10
5. The Stealer- The High Nines are a 5 piece rock and roll/ alternative rock band who have infectious guitar riffs and the alternative, indie-rock vocals of Steve Cornell make this track a great listen which will stay in your head for a long time! 9/10
6. Rabbit Hole- This song is a piano and acoustic guitar ballad sung by Matt fryers, the intro music is beautiful and haunting with long lasting effects. Fryers' vocals cut through the hypnotizing effects suddenly with their raspy pop tones. This beginning would be much better if the vocals worked their way in gently and softly. After this, though, the song becomes a gorgeous melody again. 7/10
7. Bumblebee- Another rock and roll song by Mercury Field, I prefer this one. I feel it has more vocal variation and more diverse music behind Josh Jones' classic rock voice. This is a much more innovative track. 8/10
8. Blue Dove- This Skinny Roller song is a slower and more melodic track than St Louis. The vocals are more varied in pitch, they sound more comfortable in themselves and in the higher pitches than in St Louis. The track isn't as catchy and infectious, but still a really good, original bit of music. 9/10
9. Hide & Seek- Another indie-rock song with much less backing and more vocals, although the vocals still can't seem to match up to the heavy rock backing. There are some nice and inventive interludes within the track though. 6/10
10. Paupers & Kings- Another alternative-rock song by The High Nines. This one is almost as catchy but not quite, although it still has its own merits with the grunge-y, casual vocals and their talented, fast moving twangy electric backing. 8/10
Thanks for reading! Don't forget to download the mix tape HERE and let me know what you think of the tracks!
Today's post is my review of Scruff of the neck record's first mix tape which is FREE to download HERE
Tracklisting:
1. Out in the cold- Matt Fryers
2. I couldn't fall on you- Mercury field
3. St. Louis- Skinny Roller
4. Afterglow- The Reveurs
5. The Stealer- The High Nines
6. Rabbit Hole- Matt Fryers
7. Bumblebee- Mercury Field
8. Blue Dove- Skinny Roller
9. Hide & Seek- The Reveurs
10. Paupers & Kings- The High Nines
Background Info:
Scruff of the neck records are a Manchester based record company who have signed artists such as The Naughtys and Go Native. You can see more of them and download some of their bands' music HERE
Review:
1. Out in the cold- This is an indie-pop, acoustic track by 22 year old Manchester lad Matt Fryers. His vocals are raspy and sounds like they're struggling to get to the higher pitches. He is quite talented but not very unique. 5/10
2. I couldn't fall on you- Mercury field are a 5 piece rock band who are influenced by Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd among many others. This track is undoubtedly a classic rock and roll song, the first few electric chords are a give away at the first listen. A good track but again nothing too special 6.5/10.
3. St Louis- This indie/indie-rock song is by Skinny Roller who are a 4 piece indie band from Manchester. Mark Nangle's grunge-y, raspy, distressed, low pitched vocals fit perfectly with the electric minor chords, jumpy bass and light drums of this creative track! 8/10
4. Afterglow- This track is indie/indie-rock and by The Reveurs who are a 4 piece indie/rock band. The loud, powerful, full on indie-rock backing seems to drown out Gary Nelson's nasal, wobbly vocals. The vocals are undefined and not very confident even though the backing is just that. 4/10
5. The Stealer- The High Nines are a 5 piece rock and roll/ alternative rock band who have infectious guitar riffs and the alternative, indie-rock vocals of Steve Cornell make this track a great listen which will stay in your head for a long time! 9/10
6. Rabbit Hole- This song is a piano and acoustic guitar ballad sung by Matt fryers, the intro music is beautiful and haunting with long lasting effects. Fryers' vocals cut through the hypnotizing effects suddenly with their raspy pop tones. This beginning would be much better if the vocals worked their way in gently and softly. After this, though, the song becomes a gorgeous melody again. 7/10
7. Bumblebee- Another rock and roll song by Mercury Field, I prefer this one. I feel it has more vocal variation and more diverse music behind Josh Jones' classic rock voice. This is a much more innovative track. 8/10
8. Blue Dove- This Skinny Roller song is a slower and more melodic track than St Louis. The vocals are more varied in pitch, they sound more comfortable in themselves and in the higher pitches than in St Louis. The track isn't as catchy and infectious, but still a really good, original bit of music. 9/10
9. Hide & Seek- Another indie-rock song with much less backing and more vocals, although the vocals still can't seem to match up to the heavy rock backing. There are some nice and inventive interludes within the track though. 6/10
10. Paupers & Kings- Another alternative-rock song by The High Nines. This one is almost as catchy but not quite, although it still has its own merits with the grunge-y, casual vocals and their talented, fast moving twangy electric backing. 8/10
Thanks for reading! Don't forget to download the mix tape HERE and let me know what you think of the tracks!
Wednesday, 19 March 2014
iTunes Single of the week #13
Hi,
This week iTunes' free single was "Walk this way" by MØ.
MØ is a Danish soul, pop, electronica, R&B and alternative dance singer/songwriter who is rapidly making herself known for the right reasons. She is from Odense in Denmark and is 25 years old. She has one EP out called bikini daze and one LP called no mythologies to follow, which came out on March 10th this year.
This week iTunes' free single was "Walk this way" by MØ.
MØ is a Danish soul, pop, electronica, R&B and alternative dance singer/songwriter who is rapidly making herself known for the right reasons. She is from Odense in Denmark and is 25 years old. She has one EP out called bikini daze and one LP called no mythologies to follow, which came out on March 10th this year.
Review:
This track is electronica but cleverly constructed with fast up-tempo choruses and slowed down more relaxing verses that are similar to '90s pop. MØ's voice is high pitched and a has youthful tone but the techniques she uses sound mature and skilled. Almost all the way through she has recorded at least one more track of her vocals on top of the main lyrics. This effect is often not used very well but MØ uses it to it's full potential in my opinion with great outcomes! The track starts straight away with street party like beats and her main vocals cushioned in the echoed effect which sounds great. This song is so catchy with quite simple and popp-y lyrics but with really effective hooks!
Overall I think this song is really pretty good, so I will give it 8/10.
Monday, 17 March 2014
Tall Ships
Hi,
Today's post is on "Tall Ships".
Background Info:
Tall Ships are an experimental band based in Brighton, originally from Falmouth, Cornwall. They play mainly indie and alternative rock, with a bit of indie-grunge-pop. They have 3 albums, 3 EPs and a few singles out on iTunes HERE and their soundcloud page is HERE
Today's post is on "Tall Ships".
Background Info:
Tall Ships are an experimental band based in Brighton, originally from Falmouth, Cornwall. They play mainly indie and alternative rock, with a bit of indie-grunge-pop. They have 3 albums, 3 EPs and a few singles out on iTunes HERE and their soundcloud page is HERE
They have a very alternative indie-rock, indie-grunge sound. Although their style changes throughout their music, the the basic indie-rock sound and rounded, slightly nasal vocals stay constant. They have a very unique sound and can be recognised in a crowd which is a good skill in the ever-growing world of music culture. Their electric, classic rock sounds and shouting, fuzzy lyrics in "Hit the floor" are a great example of what can be done with layered fast moving chords over very prominent drum beats and a ground melody keeping the song recognisable with the heavy bass towards the end and sharp electric chords in the middle. "Plate Tectonics" is heading towards the more popp-y end of the spectrum with the less roughed up vocals and more predictable chords and drums towards the beginning. Although the middle takes us away from the familiar melody and into a wonderful intermission with gorgeous guitar work! A whole lot of fun! This band is great!
Tuesday, 11 March 2014
iTunes Single of the week #12
Hi,
So, it's that time of the week again. This week's free single was "Thinkin Aboutchu" by Dan Croll.
Dan Croll is a 23 year old indie-rock/pop, folktronica, pop-rock artist from Newcastle. He has one album out called Sweet Disarray which came out on March 10th this year.
Review:
So I know you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover but my immediate response when I first saw the title was: this is either going to be an awful, generic electro-pop track or it's an ironic name and a really fun original piece of music. To be honest it's neither of these. This is indie-electro-pop with prominent but simple bass guitar at the beginning leaving space for the vocals to grow, but they really don't. The vocals are very simple and reserved which can be good, but in this case are boring. There are times when you feel the vocals should stretch out and show full potential but just stay on one level throughout. The backing music is quite catchy but nothing very special or unique.
Overall, this track has some good points but it's boring and not a song that you can listen to very often without wanting to rip off your headphones. I think it deserves 3/10!
So, it's that time of the week again. This week's free single was "Thinkin Aboutchu" by Dan Croll.
Dan Croll is a 23 year old indie-rock/pop, folktronica, pop-rock artist from Newcastle. He has one album out called Sweet Disarray which came out on March 10th this year.
Review:
So I know you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover but my immediate response when I first saw the title was: this is either going to be an awful, generic electro-pop track or it's an ironic name and a really fun original piece of music. To be honest it's neither of these. This is indie-electro-pop with prominent but simple bass guitar at the beginning leaving space for the vocals to grow, but they really don't. The vocals are very simple and reserved which can be good, but in this case are boring. There are times when you feel the vocals should stretch out and show full potential but just stay on one level throughout. The backing music is quite catchy but nothing very special or unique.
Overall, this track has some good points but it's boring and not a song that you can listen to very often without wanting to rip off your headphones. I think it deserves 3/10!
Friday, 7 March 2014
The Honey Trees- Wake the Earth
Hi,
Today's post will be about "The honey trees" and their EP Wake the Earth.
Background Info:
A dream-pop, indie-folk duo from Sacramento, California. They, Jacob Wick and Becky Flip, have a full length album called Bright Fire coming out on April 8th.
Review:
The gorgeous acoustic music fits with Becky's gentle, rounded vocals. Her voice rings out with clarity and her airy tone floats above the backing with an angelic beauty. Her folk-y twangs bring interest to the lyrics and fit with the soft, acoustic backing with a pure, harmonising symmetry. Really great band worth a listen!
Today's post will be about "The honey trees" and their EP Wake the Earth.
Background Info:
A dream-pop, indie-folk duo from Sacramento, California. They, Jacob Wick and Becky Flip, have a full length album called Bright Fire coming out on April 8th.
Review:
The gorgeous acoustic music fits with Becky's gentle, rounded vocals. Her voice rings out with clarity and her airy tone floats above the backing with an angelic beauty. Her folk-y twangs bring interest to the lyrics and fit with the soft, acoustic backing with a pure, harmonising symmetry. Really great band worth a listen!
Tuesday, 4 March 2014
iTunes Single of the week #11
Hi,
I haven't done one of these for a while but here we go....
This week's was "Rockstar" by A great big world.
A great big world are an indie-pop/ indie rock duo from New York. They have one album out called "is there anybody put there?".
Review:
This indie-pop/rock song is catchy and gets you dancing. The lyrics are great and really well written. The piano is a jazzy and it helps keep a steady tune all the way through which is missing in a lot songs like this. The electric guitar fits nicely with the lyrics and is cleverly put in at the right times to give us the person's dream. The singer is very talented, sounding comfortable with the fast moving tune but not keeping the melody safe. I really love this track with the texture changing rapidly, the vocals adapting to this all the way through and the amazing piano and guitar work. A really great song! Definitely should be downloaded while it still can be!
Overall, I really love this song so 8/10!
I haven't done one of these for a while but here we go....
This week's was "Rockstar" by A great big world.
A great big world are an indie-pop/ indie rock duo from New York. They have one album out called "is there anybody put there?".
Review:
This indie-pop/rock song is catchy and gets you dancing. The lyrics are great and really well written. The piano is a jazzy and it helps keep a steady tune all the way through which is missing in a lot songs like this. The electric guitar fits nicely with the lyrics and is cleverly put in at the right times to give us the person's dream. The singer is very talented, sounding comfortable with the fast moving tune but not keeping the melody safe. I really love this track with the texture changing rapidly, the vocals adapting to this all the way through and the amazing piano and guitar work. A really great song! Definitely should be downloaded while it still can be!
Overall, I really love this song so 8/10!
Sunday, 2 March 2014
The Edmondsons
Hi,
Just a short one for today!
Background Info:
The Edmondsons are three sisters from North London. They say they are influenced by Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, Kate Bush, Bon Iver and Jessie Ware. All I can find of them is two demo songs on soundcloud HERE but I'll add more links if I find any.
These girls are similar to First aid kit and K T Tunstall but still have their own stamp on things. Their beautiful acoustic, fresh, open melodies and utterly gorgeous and clear cut harmonies work wonderfully. Brave Heart starts with vocals that sound almost exactly like K T Tunstall but is still gorgeous and California is a lot less similar. Even though they do sound similar to a lot of indie-folk artists already around you can still appreciate the beauty and professionalism and clear tightness of their harmonies. These girls will have a great career in front of them!
Just a short one for today!
Background Info:
The Edmondsons are three sisters from North London. They say they are influenced by Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, Kate Bush, Bon Iver and Jessie Ware. All I can find of them is two demo songs on soundcloud HERE but I'll add more links if I find any.
Friday, 28 February 2014
Drawn From Memory
Hi,
Today's post will be about a sound cloud of "drawn from memory". I can literally not find anything about this guy on the internet except that he's from Aberdeen. I don't even know if it's a he or a them but I'm doing my best and chasing the issue! Sorry for the obscurity but I think you should know abut him!
So his music is HERE
Review:
He writes beautiful acoustic indie and indie-folk melodies. His vocals are gorgeous, grunge-y and emotional but go with the acoustic guitar ballad backing so well. What he's done is made the music sound like it really means something to him, which you really hear through his songs. Sometimes I just don't know is a gentle, melancholy track with an utterly heartbreaking guitar backing and poetic lyrics. Foolish Notions is a more fast tempo track with higher pitched and more melodic and indie-pop vocals. But still a heart wrenching track with relateable lyrics and beautiful chords. It contains a harmonica like a few other tracks. Every time I listen to a track I think "this one's my favourite", but then the next one comes on and I change my mind again. This guy is a wonderful artist so HERE is his music..... really, you need to listen.
Today's post will be about a sound cloud of "drawn from memory". I can literally not find anything about this guy on the internet except that he's from Aberdeen. I don't even know if it's a he or a them but I'm doing my best and chasing the issue! Sorry for the obscurity but I think you should know abut him!
So his music is HERE
Review:
He writes beautiful acoustic indie and indie-folk melodies. His vocals are gorgeous, grunge-y and emotional but go with the acoustic guitar ballad backing so well. What he's done is made the music sound like it really means something to him, which you really hear through his songs. Sometimes I just don't know is a gentle, melancholy track with an utterly heartbreaking guitar backing and poetic lyrics. Foolish Notions is a more fast tempo track with higher pitched and more melodic and indie-pop vocals. But still a heart wrenching track with relateable lyrics and beautiful chords. It contains a harmonica like a few other tracks. Every time I listen to a track I think "this one's my favourite", but then the next one comes on and I change my mind again. This guy is a wonderful artist so HERE is his music..... really, you need to listen.
Tuesday, 25 February 2014
Palehound- Bent nail EP
Hi,
So if you follow me on twitter (@paperowls24 if you don't) you'll probably know the broadband has been broken and the only internet that worked for me were apps. That's been fixed now so back to blogging!
Today's post will be about a band called Palehound's EP "bent nail". You can listen to it HERE
Background info:
Palehound are a four piece indie/ indie-grunge band based in New York. They have one EP (bent nail) on iTunes, but have a pre-order available on bandcamp HERE.
Their casual indie sound is grungey and alternative. Their bass-y, heavy melodies go perfectly with the casual and gentle but emotional vocals of Ellen Kempner. Their lyrics are gorgeous and tell a story especially Psycho Speak. You can tell they have been thought about and the backing is extremely clever and fits with the songs. For example Fly Trap mentions venus fly traps and sounds a bit like you're in a jungle. The first twangley guitar chords of Drooler paired with Ellen's high pitched softly focused vocals at the start are angelic! I'm a bit obsessed with these guys at the moment!!
So if you follow me on twitter (@paperowls24 if you don't) you'll probably know the broadband has been broken and the only internet that worked for me were apps. That's been fixed now so back to blogging!
Today's post will be about a band called Palehound's EP "bent nail". You can listen to it HERE
Background info:
Palehound are a four piece indie/ indie-grunge band based in New York. They have one EP (bent nail) on iTunes, but have a pre-order available on bandcamp HERE.
Their casual indie sound is grungey and alternative. Their bass-y, heavy melodies go perfectly with the casual and gentle but emotional vocals of Ellen Kempner. Their lyrics are gorgeous and tell a story especially Psycho Speak. You can tell they have been thought about and the backing is extremely clever and fits with the songs. For example Fly Trap mentions venus fly traps and sounds a bit like you're in a jungle. The first twangley guitar chords of Drooler paired with Ellen's high pitched softly focused vocals at the start are angelic! I'm a bit obsessed with these guys at the moment!!
Thursday, 6 February 2014
Marcas O'hUigin Interview and Review
Hi,
So today's post will be some words from a fabulous singer/songwriter "Marcas O'hUigin" and my review of some of his music. Here it is hope you enjoy!
Twitter: @marcasohuigin
www.marcasohuigin.com
You can listen now on soundcloud at:
https://soundcloud.com/marcas-ohuigin
"I also write across other genres such as pop, dance, folk and country and I plan to release more upbeat rock and dance tunes in the first or second quarter of 2014.
Some facts like the song 'She's in my Heart' was recorded live in 1 take. I had no lyrics but had some ideas. It was in the small hours of the morning when this was recorded. My wife was working a night shift and I was 6 bottles of heiniken 'under the influence of alcohol at the time. The record button was pressed, I closed my eyes and thought of how much in love I am with my wife. The Song 'She's in my Heart' was the result. no bullshit, I swear that's how it happened. I kept listening back and listening back and ended up I kept it for all it's flaws and beauty. A bit like our relationship - taking the good with the bad with love at the centre. In the bit where the vocals kinds fade away a bit after the second chorus was because I was unsure what to sing!
The song 'I don't see you anymore' was also recorded in 1 take.
The drums, electric guitars etc were all added much later after the initial recording.
The theme of the title song of my debut ep due for release in January 2014 'Me & You' is very straight forward - reminiscing over a relationship break up and/or coming to terms with a relationship ending. However, and as you know, this theme has been done SO many times in music genres since year dot and as a songwriter it is a huge
challenge to take this theme and try to make your own song connect with people
who either have experienced a break-up or are currently experiencing a
break-up and hopefully will use your song as part of the healing process - a bit like music therapy I suppose.
Lots of songwriters tend to moan via song about their own love experiences. The story in 'Me & You' song is fiction from my own personal perspective. I took inspiration from U2's Bono when writing
the lyrics for this. I remember thinking at the time about the song 'One' 'How can he write lyrics about love and heartache when he has been in a long-term marriage etc?' Also I took inspiration from Paul McCartney/The Beatles where they take the universal language of love and sing about it. The idea being that 'everyone' can or should be able to connect with this.
So quite simply, I put myself in the shoes of someone in a
relationship break-up and went from there. The music came first and then the lyrics. There is also the 'ghost' of the female in this relationship break-up singing lightly along in the chorus. My wife sings the female
harmonies and backing vocals and so she plays the part of the 'ghost' of the
lady in the relationship. The ghost appears at this point to represent that she too 'must be or could be' feeling the same.
A song of mine features on the (now collectable) school project release by Irish rock band 'Ash'. My song was
called Because you said' and I was the singer and writer for a band called 'FAT' at the time. Info to confirm this can be found at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJV2st6lg1k"
You can listen now on soundcloud at:
https://soundcloud.com/marcas-ohuigin
"I also write across other genres such as pop, dance, folk and country and I plan to release more upbeat rock and dance tunes in the first or second quarter of 2014.
Some facts like the song 'She's in my Heart' was recorded live in 1 take. I had no lyrics but had some ideas. It was in the small hours of the morning when this was recorded. My wife was working a night shift and I was 6 bottles of heiniken 'under the influence of alcohol at the time. The record button was pressed, I closed my eyes and thought of how much in love I am with my wife. The Song 'She's in my Heart' was the result. no bullshit, I swear that's how it happened. I kept listening back and listening back and ended up I kept it for all it's flaws and beauty. A bit like our relationship - taking the good with the bad with love at the centre. In the bit where the vocals kinds fade away a bit after the second chorus was because I was unsure what to sing!
The song 'I don't see you anymore' was also recorded in 1 take.
The drums, electric guitars etc were all added much later after the initial recording.
The theme of the title song of my debut ep due for release in January 2014 'Me & You' is very straight forward - reminiscing over a relationship break up and/or coming to terms with a relationship ending. However, and as you know, this theme has been done SO many times in music genres since year dot and as a songwriter it is a huge
challenge to take this theme and try to make your own song connect with people
who either have experienced a break-up or are currently experiencing a
break-up and hopefully will use your song as part of the healing process - a bit like music therapy I suppose.
Lots of songwriters tend to moan via song about their own love experiences. The story in 'Me & You' song is fiction from my own personal perspective. I took inspiration from U2's Bono when writing
the lyrics for this. I remember thinking at the time about the song 'One' 'How can he write lyrics about love and heartache when he has been in a long-term marriage etc?' Also I took inspiration from Paul McCartney/The Beatles where they take the universal language of love and sing about it. The idea being that 'everyone' can or should be able to connect with this.
So quite simply, I put myself in the shoes of someone in a
relationship break-up and went from there. The music came first and then the lyrics. There is also the 'ghost' of the female in this relationship break-up singing lightly along in the chorus. My wife sings the female
harmonies and backing vocals and so she plays the part of the 'ghost' of the
lady in the relationship. The ghost appears at this point to represent that she too 'must be or could be' feeling the same.
A song of mine features on the (now collectable) school project release by Irish rock band 'Ash'. My song was
called Because you said' and I was the singer and writer for a band called 'FAT' at the time. Info to confirm this can be found at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJV2st6lg1k"
Review:
She's in my heart is a beautiful, gentle acoustic track. The gorgeous, dulcet, talented vocals of Marcas fit the genre perfectly and compliment each other so well. Me and you is another acoustic song with wonderful minor guitar chords behind the amazing harmonies, I love the emotion in this song, it's one you can clearly imagine in a film! I love the strength and clear remorse in this track. I Don't see you Anymore is another strong and clear cut grievous song. It's confident and switches from an acoustic, gentle melody at the start to a stronger and rough edged piece with harder vocals and electric guitar with more prominent, heavy bass which works really well I find! So this guy is worth a listen, thanks for reading!
Tuesday, 4 February 2014
iTunes Single of the week #10
Hi,
This week iTune's free single of the week was "Gone (feat. Mahut Mondino)" by Supreme Cuts.
Supreme Cuts are a pair of electronic, dubstep artists from Chicago. They have on album "Divine Ecstasy" and one EP "Trouble" on iTunes. Mahut Mondino is a singer/songwriter from Paris. She has two singles out on iTunes, not including this one.
Review:
This track is electronic-pop but has indie hints to it. The intro is so beautiful, a piano playing gorgeous moving chords over a simple twinkly melody is just unbelievably wonderful. I kept rewinding the song and listening to it again and again. Listening to it you think you're in for a gentle, beautiful piano ballad, but soon the singer and electro beats bursts through which I find ruins the moment. The piano is kept all the way through but overshadowed by electro-pop beats, which is a shame. The rest of the song is much the same, the singer is talented and the vocals are great but is high pitched all the way through and can get irritating. Her first note escapes through the soft piano with airy, light softness but we also hear the strength of her voice. Mahut Mondino is one to watch I think but this whole track is too electro-pop club beat-y for me!
Overall, purely for the piano and the vocals, I will give it 6/10.
This week iTune's free single of the week was "Gone (feat. Mahut Mondino)" by Supreme Cuts.
Supreme Cuts are a pair of electronic, dubstep artists from Chicago. They have on album "Divine Ecstasy" and one EP "Trouble" on iTunes. Mahut Mondino is a singer/songwriter from Paris. She has two singles out on iTunes, not including this one.
Review:
This track is electronic-pop but has indie hints to it. The intro is so beautiful, a piano playing gorgeous moving chords over a simple twinkly melody is just unbelievably wonderful. I kept rewinding the song and listening to it again and again. Listening to it you think you're in for a gentle, beautiful piano ballad, but soon the singer and electro beats bursts through which I find ruins the moment. The piano is kept all the way through but overshadowed by electro-pop beats, which is a shame. The rest of the song is much the same, the singer is talented and the vocals are great but is high pitched all the way through and can get irritating. Her first note escapes through the soft piano with airy, light softness but we also hear the strength of her voice. Mahut Mondino is one to watch I think but this whole track is too electro-pop club beat-y for me!
Overall, purely for the piano and the vocals, I will give it 6/10.
Thursday, 30 January 2014
Park Bench Society- Forest Gate EP
Hi,
Sorry I haven't posted for a while but I've been so tied down with homework recently that I have just not had the time! Anyway, today's post will be about "Park Bench Society"'s EP Forest Gate. You can buy or listen HERE
Background Info:
Park Bench Society are an acoustic, indie, alternative and Ska band from Loughborough. They say they are influenced by The Rivers, Jamie T, Arctic Monkeys, Tom Waits, John Mayer, Bon Iver, The Kooks, Steve Hewitt and Vampire Weekend.
Sorry I haven't posted for a while but I've been so tied down with homework recently that I have just not had the time! Anyway, today's post will be about "Park Bench Society"'s EP Forest Gate. You can buy or listen HERE
Background Info:
Park Bench Society are an acoustic, indie, alternative and Ska band from Loughborough. They say they are influenced by The Rivers, Jamie T, Arctic Monkeys, Tom Waits, John Mayer, Bon Iver, The Kooks, Steve Hewitt and Vampire Weekend.
They have a gorgeous acoustic indie sound. The track "Down by he bus shelter" is an amazing, catchy song showing off the vocal and song writing ability of the guys. This track is similar to Passenger but still has it's own unique style. The song "Room 66" starts off with the twangy guitar sounds and the slapping guitar drum , it sounds Spanish and is fast and upbeat. I love their accent which is really prominent in this song. The trumpets are a great addition. "Go home" is an angry and sassy song that is confident and clever. "Girl from the city" is another upbeat track that is unbelievably catchy and probably my favourite. These guys really think about their lyrics and backing which is obvious in their music. It is carefully sculpted, unlike early EPs in a lot of band's careers. This EP is full of upbeat acoustic indie tracks that get you dancing and thinking so I love these guys. I really hope they get big and your £3.16 would help a lot! .......
Thursday, 23 January 2014
The Tuts
Hi,
Background Info:
The Tuts are a 3-piece punk, ska and indie band from Hayes, London. They have a song featured on Kate Nash's Christmas EP.
These girls have a rock sound as well as a slightly poppy. They are extremely talented and unique, although have a similar sound to Kate Nash. Their electric, bass heavy beats are fab and added with the gentle, soothing voices of the girls makes a great and whole band! I'm surprised they're not bigger than they are!!
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