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!
Showing posts with label indie rock. Show all posts
Showing posts with label indie rock. Show all posts
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!!
Saturday, 18 January 2014
Top 3 Songs of the week #9
Hi,
This week I've been loving....
Bird song by Florence + the machine
My Song 5 by HAIM
Angry Hill by George Ezra
Bird Song is a gorgeous alternative song. Florence's voice is so beautiful in this song that I don't know how to cope! The intro is slow and flowing and sung without backing. Then acoustic guitar is added, but it sounds so much like a harp, electric guitar is added after and it gets faster but still only very simple backing. The harp-like guitar is added again with Florence singing two parts to this song recorded over each other. When it goes back into flowing gorgeous circles she sings the same line again and again. But we hear her mood change with the music and our perception of the line changes with her's. We feel her change as a person which makes this such a simple but incredible song! She is a truly talented songstress!
My Song 5 is an electric, bass heavy track. It has a strong sound and strong lyrics. The lyrics are sung quite low down which adds to the strength of the song. I love the electric guitar rock sound after the chorus, it makes you want to do air guitar! I love the beats that sound like a funeral march at the start of the song, these add to the anger and emotion of the song. The lyrics are great, they swear but use the word for drama and purpose rather then just throwing it in there like a lot of artists do. I love the deep brass sound that is played in sync with the vocals which sounds great. I love the sound of it at the end. It's a great electric rock song!
Angry Hill is by George Ezra who's EP I reveiwed HERE. This track starts with gentle guitar chords and a gorgeous but menacing and threatening backing drone. When he starts singing we hear his deep, mature tone with distressed and crackly throaty sounds. It sounds amazing and gorgeous, it's so emotional it makes me want to cry! This song is varied and interesting with Ezra's vocals changing and adapting throughout the music. It starts and finishes with noises that sound almost like screams, it adds mystery and menace. This song is so beautiful and needs to be listened to!
This week I've been loving....
Bird song by Florence + the machine
My Song 5 by HAIM
Angry Hill by George Ezra
Bird Song is a gorgeous alternative song. Florence's voice is so beautiful in this song that I don't know how to cope! The intro is slow and flowing and sung without backing. Then acoustic guitar is added, but it sounds so much like a harp, electric guitar is added after and it gets faster but still only very simple backing. The harp-like guitar is added again with Florence singing two parts to this song recorded over each other. When it goes back into flowing gorgeous circles she sings the same line again and again. But we hear her mood change with the music and our perception of the line changes with her's. We feel her change as a person which makes this such a simple but incredible song! She is a truly talented songstress!
My Song 5 is an electric, bass heavy track. It has a strong sound and strong lyrics. The lyrics are sung quite low down which adds to the strength of the song. I love the electric guitar rock sound after the chorus, it makes you want to do air guitar! I love the beats that sound like a funeral march at the start of the song, these add to the anger and emotion of the song. The lyrics are great, they swear but use the word for drama and purpose rather then just throwing it in there like a lot of artists do. I love the deep brass sound that is played in sync with the vocals which sounds great. I love the sound of it at the end. It's a great electric rock song!
Angry Hill is by George Ezra who's EP I reveiwed HERE. This track starts with gentle guitar chords and a gorgeous but menacing and threatening backing drone. When he starts singing we hear his deep, mature tone with distressed and crackly throaty sounds. It sounds amazing and gorgeous, it's so emotional it makes me want to cry! This song is varied and interesting with Ezra's vocals changing and adapting throughout the music. It starts and finishes with noises that sound almost like screams, it adds mystery and menace. This song is so beautiful and needs to be listened to!
Thursday, 16 January 2014
iTunes Single of the week #8
Hi,
The single this week was "British Weather" by Decade.
Decade are a 5 piece indie-rock, alternative grunge band from Bath. They have one self titled EP and one full album called "Good luck" out.
(I usually put a picture of the single cover but I can't find a reasonable quality one anywhere on the internet!! Sorry!)
Review:
This band are not really original or unique but they do have talent, it's a bit dull and samey. They sound so much like fall out boy that they aren't really defined as a band. It is just your average indie rock song, nothing very different or special! I think the band do have some merit as they are talented, but it's been done before boys! The song passes the time and it is not so bad you can't listen to it, it's just boring and fades into the background. The vocalist has tones of American grunge pop which makes it sound a bit too pretentious for my tastes.
Overall this song is good but dull and average. I will give it 4/10!
The single this week was "British Weather" by Decade.
Decade are a 5 piece indie-rock, alternative grunge band from Bath. They have one self titled EP and one full album called "Good luck" out.
(I usually put a picture of the single cover but I can't find a reasonable quality one anywhere on the internet!! Sorry!)
Review:
This band are not really original or unique but they do have talent, it's a bit dull and samey. They sound so much like fall out boy that they aren't really defined as a band. It is just your average indie rock song, nothing very different or special! I think the band do have some merit as they are talented, but it's been done before boys! The song passes the time and it is not so bad you can't listen to it, it's just boring and fades into the background. The vocalist has tones of American grunge pop which makes it sound a bit too pretentious for my tastes.
Overall this song is good but dull and average. I will give it 4/10!
Monday, 13 January 2014
Eliza and the Bear
Hi,
Today's post will be about "Eliza and the bear". You can listen to them HERE
Background Info:
Eliza and the bear is a 5 piece indie band from South London. They are influenced by: Bombay Bicycle Club, Head & The Heart, We are Augustines and Arcade Fire. They have a few singles out on iTunes.
Today's post will be about "Eliza and the bear". You can listen to them HERE
Background Info:
Eliza and the bear is a 5 piece indie band from South London. They are influenced by: Bombay Bicycle Club, Head & The Heart, We are Augustines and Arcade Fire. They have a few singles out on iTunes.
Eliza and the bear have a gorgeous indie and indie-rock sound. They have gorgeous harmonies and I love their accent when they sing. "It gets cold" is an upbeat indie-rock song similar to some of "Of monsters and men". I love the way they sing with emotion, their harmonies are fully formed and they seem already to be a ready made band with full and whole music that cheers you right up! "Friends" is more of a summery indie-pop song. I love the way that the band sing their music altogether all the way through. These guys are all really talented and deserve a listen!
Saturday, 11 January 2014
Top 3 Songs of the week #8
Hi,
Click on the song title to have a listen!
This week I've been loving.....
Milk and Black Spiders by Foals
One Day by Kodaline
Riptide by Vance Joy
Milk and Black Spiders starts with open and echoing beats and then twinkly, tapping, acoustic beats that sound like spider's feet are added. I absolutely love this addition! When the vocalist starts singing it sounds electronic and a bit techno but still unmistakeably indie. I love that the spider footsteps are kept throughout it adds real depth. When they get to first chorus then it all gets heavier and less steppy, more long drawn out notes instead of fast moving ones. Then it moves back for the next verse. I really like this! At the end it starts to sound almost Turkish which is great. I love the way it builds before the last more indie-electro-pop end bit. I love the lyrics that "Foals" use in all their songs.
One Day is an unbelievably gorgeous song by Kodaline. It starts with just an acoustic guitar, small tapping beats and the singer which has a great effect. Piano is then added which brings more melody to the song, then drums are added which makes it feel fuller and more whole. Bass guitar is added which makes the track a whole and all come together. I love the message of the song, the lyrics are so good and just makes you want to sing along! When the electric guitar has some, rock-esque backing it adds a lot to the piece and now it sounds so more emotional and the whole thing builds for the last part. It ends with the chorus sung with only the acoustic guitar which leaves you feeling emotional and full. Just beautiful!
Riptide is an upbeat beachy sounding track. The first chords sound like you're sitting in a beach shack (in a good way). But his crackly, closed jaw, sometimes breathy vocals sound gorgeous and unexpected against everything else. I love that everything stops for a beat before the chorus. At the end the music stops and he is one beat behind singing "wrong", this is a gorgeous effect that makes you think. I love the chorus with only guitar chords and the tambourine, this whole track is so catchy and makes you tap your head and feet! I love the penultimate chorus where everything suddenly goes quiet and is thin texture again. It all suddenly gets loud again which I love! This song is exiting and gorgeous and needs a listen!
Click on the song title to have a listen!
This week I've been loving.....
Milk and Black Spiders by Foals
One Day by Kodaline
Riptide by Vance Joy
Milk and Black Spiders starts with open and echoing beats and then twinkly, tapping, acoustic beats that sound like spider's feet are added. I absolutely love this addition! When the vocalist starts singing it sounds electronic and a bit techno but still unmistakeably indie. I love that the spider footsteps are kept throughout it adds real depth. When they get to first chorus then it all gets heavier and less steppy, more long drawn out notes instead of fast moving ones. Then it moves back for the next verse. I really like this! At the end it starts to sound almost Turkish which is great. I love the way it builds before the last more indie-electro-pop end bit. I love the lyrics that "Foals" use in all their songs.
One Day is an unbelievably gorgeous song by Kodaline. It starts with just an acoustic guitar, small tapping beats and the singer which has a great effect. Piano is then added which brings more melody to the song, then drums are added which makes it feel fuller and more whole. Bass guitar is added which makes the track a whole and all come together. I love the message of the song, the lyrics are so good and just makes you want to sing along! When the electric guitar has some, rock-esque backing it adds a lot to the piece and now it sounds so more emotional and the whole thing builds for the last part. It ends with the chorus sung with only the acoustic guitar which leaves you feeling emotional and full. Just beautiful!
Riptide is an upbeat beachy sounding track. The first chords sound like you're sitting in a beach shack (in a good way). But his crackly, closed jaw, sometimes breathy vocals sound gorgeous and unexpected against everything else. I love that everything stops for a beat before the chorus. At the end the music stops and he is one beat behind singing "wrong", this is a gorgeous effect that makes you think. I love the chorus with only guitar chords and the tambourine, this whole track is so catchy and makes you tap your head and feet! I love the penultimate chorus where everything suddenly goes quiet and is thin texture again. It all suddenly gets loud again which I love! This song is exiting and gorgeous and needs a listen!
Monday, 6 January 2014
No fxd Abode's Pledge Project
Hi,
So just a short post for you today! This is about the brilliant band "No fxd Abode"! They have an LP which isn't out yet but you can pledge for it on pledge music HERE. I'm sure they would really appreciate your support! I have used the Pledge Music site before and trust it completely.
Background info:
No fxd abode are a 4 piece rock, britpop and indie-rock band from Scotland. They have 2 singles on iTunes: Nostalgia (which was one of top 3 songs of the week on Saturdy HERE) and Start again . Try these guys if you like "mystery jets", "peace" or "palma violets".
So just a short post for you today! This is about the brilliant band "No fxd Abode"! They have an LP which isn't out yet but you can pledge for it on pledge music HERE. I'm sure they would really appreciate your support! I have used the Pledge Music site before and trust it completely.
Background info:
No fxd abode are a 4 piece rock, britpop and indie-rock band from Scotland. They have 2 singles on iTunes: Nostalgia (which was one of top 3 songs of the week on Saturdy HERE) and Start again . Try these guys if you like "mystery jets", "peace" or "palma violets".
I hope you can pledge, the download is just £5 and it would mean a lot to them!! Thanks for reading!
Saturday, 4 January 2014
Top 3 Songs of the week #7
Hi,
Click on the song title to have a listen!
This week I've been loving:
Nostalgia by No fxd Abode
Can't pretend by Tom O'Dell
Unbelievers by Vampire Weekend
Nostalgia is by "no fxd abode" who are really great, if you want to listen to more they have other song on iTunes called Start Again which is also great! The first thing you notice is the talent of the singer, then the Scottish accent. I'm glad they haven't tried to hide the accent, I don't the music would be the same without it! The singer is so talented, the higher parts are gorgeously done and add to the music instead of trying to show off like some vocalists do. The intro is gently moving acoustic guitar chords which sets the scene well. Then when they get into and it becomes more indie-rock drums are added which sounds amazing. I love the lyrics and the message of the song. These guys are great and I'm really surprised that they're not that popular! So let's try to get them noticed guys!!
Can't pretend is probably a song you've heard before, being Tom O'dell. But I like so many others have been seduced by the gorgeous, sexy, dulcet tones of this wonderful man. I just love his nasal, distressed, emotional voice. He is one the most emotional singers I have listened to, it is a joy to hear him sing. I love this track as the whole thing changes from verse to verse, you can tell that it's the same song but it changes with the addition and subtraction of instruments and the mood of his voice. This guy if amazing!
Unbelievers is a more upbeat song. It's so catchy and makes you want to get up an dance (which I did... in the middle of a shopping centre). I love the minimal melody in the track, it sounds full even when there isn't much backing. A lovely instrumental is added in between a verse and chorus which is a great addition. At first it sounds a bit like a "duran duran" song which is great. This is great song to come home to, it cheered me right up and I hope it does the same for you!
Click on the song title to have a listen!
This week I've been loving:
Nostalgia by No fxd Abode
Can't pretend by Tom O'Dell
Unbelievers by Vampire Weekend
Nostalgia is by "no fxd abode" who are really great, if you want to listen to more they have other song on iTunes called Start Again which is also great! The first thing you notice is the talent of the singer, then the Scottish accent. I'm glad they haven't tried to hide the accent, I don't the music would be the same without it! The singer is so talented, the higher parts are gorgeously done and add to the music instead of trying to show off like some vocalists do. The intro is gently moving acoustic guitar chords which sets the scene well. Then when they get into and it becomes more indie-rock drums are added which sounds amazing. I love the lyrics and the message of the song. These guys are great and I'm really surprised that they're not that popular! So let's try to get them noticed guys!!
Can't pretend is probably a song you've heard before, being Tom O'dell. But I like so many others have been seduced by the gorgeous, sexy, dulcet tones of this wonderful man. I just love his nasal, distressed, emotional voice. He is one the most emotional singers I have listened to, it is a joy to hear him sing. I love this track as the whole thing changes from verse to verse, you can tell that it's the same song but it changes with the addition and subtraction of instruments and the mood of his voice. This guy if amazing!
Unbelievers is a more upbeat song. It's so catchy and makes you want to get up an dance (which I did... in the middle of a shopping centre). I love the minimal melody in the track, it sounds full even when there isn't much backing. A lovely instrumental is added in between a verse and chorus which is a great addition. At first it sounds a bit like a "duran duran" song which is great. This is great song to come home to, it cheered me right up and I hope it does the same for you!
Thursday, 2 January 2014
Lux Lisbon- Get Some Scars
Hi,
First off I am so sorry I haven't posted for ages. I've been unbelievably busy over the Christmas period. I had some great Christmas music posts lined up as well which I'm gutted about! Is it too late? If you would like to see them anyway then let me know in the comments! Anyway, apology over on with the post.
So today I'm going to be reviewing the Lux Lisbon's free download: "get some scars". To get the free download click HERE .
Background info:
Lux Lisbon are a 5 piece indie-rock band from Nottingham University. They have one EP out "Get some scars" (which is worth a listen!). You can buy their EP for £4 or more HERE .
Review:
"Get some scars" is a catchy song with a great meaning. The video is great as well if you want to watch. I love the lyric "oh while we're young yeah, let's go out and get some scars. 'Cos when we're older we'll wear them to tell us apart". The song starts with one singer for a bar then a harmony sung by the band with only sparse guitar chords which works really well. They have boy/girl harmonies which sound great and we are hearing more of recently but still not enough in my opinion. We have too many one gender bands! Sorry, rant over! When they get into it they start to sound a bit like a barber shop choir, which isn't necessarily a bad thing just a bit weird at times. I recommend these guys if you like Dog is Dead or Fleetwood Mac. So, their track is definitely worth a download! Follow them on twitter @luxlisbonmusic!!
First off I am so sorry I haven't posted for ages. I've been unbelievably busy over the Christmas period. I had some great Christmas music posts lined up as well which I'm gutted about! Is it too late? If you would like to see them anyway then let me know in the comments! Anyway, apology over on with the post.
So today I'm going to be reviewing the Lux Lisbon's free download: "get some scars". To get the free download click HERE .
Background info:
Lux Lisbon are a 5 piece indie-rock band from Nottingham University. They have one EP out "Get some scars" (which is worth a listen!). You can buy their EP for £4 or more HERE .
Review:
"Get some scars" is a catchy song with a great meaning. The video is great as well if you want to watch. I love the lyric "oh while we're young yeah, let's go out and get some scars. 'Cos when we're older we'll wear them to tell us apart". The song starts with one singer for a bar then a harmony sung by the band with only sparse guitar chords which works really well. They have boy/girl harmonies which sound great and we are hearing more of recently but still not enough in my opinion. We have too many one gender bands! Sorry, rant over! When they get into it they start to sound a bit like a barber shop choir, which isn't necessarily a bad thing just a bit weird at times. I recommend these guys if you like Dog is Dead or Fleetwood Mac. So, their track is definitely worth a download! Follow them on twitter @luxlisbonmusic!!
Sunday, 15 December 2013
Today I've been listening to....... Pseudo Shark
Hi,
So today I've been loving the band Pseudo Shark and their EP Forming Opinions, which you can download for free HERE. (If you're new to bandcamp, press buy now and you can enter any price you want)
Background Info....
Pseudo Shark are a 4 piece indie/alternative rock band from Jackson, Tennessee, USA. The band consists of Aaron Park (vocals and guitar), Noah Moyes (guitar), Jacob Hayes (bass and vocals) and Kevin Morgan (drums). They have one EP (forming opinions) which came out in November 2013.
I love the gentle, soft sound of these guys. The guitar and drums together on "Saturday Song" sound like you're sitting on an English beach, and the vocals in "crowded room" are heartfelt and emotional. In all their songs lyrics are sparse and repeated but thought about and meant, which you can tell in their music. The lyrics are inspirational and really make you think. The guitar in "Away" sounds western and makes you think of a desert. These guys can take you through your past and around the world with their music, they are great and I'm sure they'd really appreciate a download of their album or a follow on twitter!
So today I've been loving the band Pseudo Shark and their EP Forming Opinions, which you can download for free HERE. (If you're new to bandcamp, press buy now and you can enter any price you want)
Pseudo Shark are a 4 piece indie/alternative rock band from Jackson, Tennessee, USA. The band consists of Aaron Park (vocals and guitar), Noah Moyes (guitar), Jacob Hayes (bass and vocals) and Kevin Morgan (drums). They have one EP (forming opinions) which came out in November 2013.
I love the gentle, soft sound of these guys. The guitar and drums together on "Saturday Song" sound like you're sitting on an English beach, and the vocals in "crowded room" are heartfelt and emotional. In all their songs lyrics are sparse and repeated but thought about and meant, which you can tell in their music. The lyrics are inspirational and really make you think. The guitar in "Away" sounds western and makes you think of a desert. These guys can take you through your past and around the world with their music, they are great and I'm sure they'd really appreciate a download of their album or a follow on twitter!
Thursday, 12 December 2013
Peace.......EP Delicious
Hi,
Just a short post for today! Recently I've really been enjoying listening to Peace's EP Delicious (EPs are all I can afford in the run up to Christmas!!). You can buy this EP from iTunes HERE
Background Info....
Peace are an indie-rock band with 4 members: Harry Kossier (vocals, guitar), Samuel Koisser (bass), Douglas Castle (guitar) and Dominic Boyce (drums). They have one EP out and one album called "In love".
I love Peace's electric and clear cut guitar backing and when they add guitar following drum beats, it sounds like the drums are playing a melody. This is used in their track 1998. Ocean's eye starts with a threatening intro and between choruses it is added again. Harry Kossier's vocals are croaky and distressed and sound struggling. All their songs are meaningful and have been thought about. They change features of their songs all the way through but keep their main ideas the same, so you are never bored listening to their music. Their 80s alternative, indie rock, with gentle tracks added in make their sound unique and gorgeous.
This band is amazing, hope you love them as much as I do!!
Just a short post for today! Recently I've really been enjoying listening to Peace's EP Delicious (EPs are all I can afford in the run up to Christmas!!). You can buy this EP from iTunes HERE
Peace are an indie-rock band with 4 members: Harry Kossier (vocals, guitar), Samuel Koisser (bass), Douglas Castle (guitar) and Dominic Boyce (drums). They have one EP out and one album called "In love".
I love Peace's electric and clear cut guitar backing and when they add guitar following drum beats, it sounds like the drums are playing a melody. This is used in their track 1998. Ocean's eye starts with a threatening intro and between choruses it is added again. Harry Kossier's vocals are croaky and distressed and sound struggling. All their songs are meaningful and have been thought about. They change features of their songs all the way through but keep their main ideas the same, so you are never bored listening to their music. Their 80s alternative, indie rock, with gentle tracks added in make their sound unique and gorgeous.
This band is amazing, hope you love them as much as I do!!
Thursday, 5 December 2013
Today I've been listening to..... Mystery Jets
Hi,
Today's post will be about a band called Mystery Jets. Today I've been especially loving their EP "Half in love with Elizabeth". You can buy it from iTunes HERE
Background info:
Mystery Jets are an English indie rock band, formerly based on Eel Pie Island in Twickenham, London. The band was formed by Henry Harrison (lyrics, piano), Blaine Harrison (vocals, guitar and keyboards), William Rees (guitar, vocals) and Kapil Trivedi (drums). The band have 5 albums: Making Dens- 2006, Zootime- 2007, Twenty One- 2008, Serotonin- 2010 and Radlands- 2012.
Today's post will be about a band called Mystery Jets. Today I've been especially loving their EP "Half in love with Elizabeth". You can buy it from iTunes HERE
Background info:
Mystery Jets are an English indie rock band, formerly based on Eel Pie Island in Twickenham, London. The band was formed by Henry Harrison (lyrics, piano), Blaine Harrison (vocals, guitar and keyboards), William Rees (guitar, vocals) and Kapil Trivedi (drums). The band have 5 albums: Making Dens- 2006, Zootime- 2007, Twenty One- 2008, Serotonin- 2010 and Radlands- 2012.
I bought this EP because Florence + the machine has a version of one of their songs on it, but I loved these guys as well so I have also bought their album Twenty One (which is definitely worth a listen!) Their indie-rock sound and gorgeous acoustic and electric tunes go so perfectly with Harrison's nasal and closed throat sound which I love! "The back door" has classical tunes made up from string section and symbols which sounds great but is indie with the metaly, twangy, clicky sound of the acoustic guitar. "Half in love with Elizabeth" is a great catchy tune that has you up on your feet dancing!! The twangy bass, electronic keyboard sounds and drum beats make it sound a bit ll over the place but in a good way! I love their accent when they sing, you can listen to this song for hours on repeat and not get bored (well I can anyway!). These guys are definitely worth a listen!!
Tuesday, 3 December 2013
iTunes Single of the week review #4
Hi,
This week the iTunes single of the week is "Love. Regret. Forgive. Forget" by The First.
The First are a 5 piece rock band.
Review:
They get straight into the heavy bassy, confused drum beats that sound like they've been singing all day and we've only just started listening! I like this but I prefer it when there is an intro and we are entered in gently. This is definitely a rock track (which I seem to be having a thing for at the moment!). The singer is good but they are just your average rocky pop band, nothing particularly stands out for me, but saying that I think these guys might be big. Nothing really changes throughout this song, it sounds like they play on a loop and you listen to a bit when you feel like it. The guitarist is talented and there are some electric, wobbly bits which show this off which are good.
Overall I think this song is good, but nothing special, I'll give it 5/10.
This week the iTunes single of the week is "Love. Regret. Forgive. Forget" by The First.
The First are a 5 piece rock band.
Review:
They get straight into the heavy bassy, confused drum beats that sound like they've been singing all day and we've only just started listening! I like this but I prefer it when there is an intro and we are entered in gently. This is definitely a rock track (which I seem to be having a thing for at the moment!). The singer is good but they are just your average rocky pop band, nothing particularly stands out for me, but saying that I think these guys might be big. Nothing really changes throughout this song, it sounds like they play on a loop and you listen to a bit when you feel like it. The guitarist is talented and there are some electric, wobbly bits which show this off which are good.
Overall I think this song is good, but nothing special, I'll give it 5/10.
Thursday, 28 November 2013
Those who seek
Hi,
So today's post will be about band called Those who seek. These guys have one EP out called "Because really, we're just animals". You can have a listen to it on their bandcamp site HERE!
The band's EP has all ranges of genres including a punk-rock track "Look to the skies". I don't usually like this type of bass heavy confused drum beat music, but these guys are an exception. I really like their track "Run from me" which you really don't expect after hearing their first track. This a slower song with mellow opening verses showing the vocal talent and multi-genre writing ability of the band. It progresses into a captivating chorus and some amazing guitar work. The track "sex won't fill your heart" is full of crashing symbols that sound like waves breaking. This song is more indie-rock which is great, probably my favourite. Their last song "Veritas Occulta" is more rock again, still extremely heavy. This song has a fast tempo and building guitar chords with drums crashing all the way through. The song includes fast pace beats and a destructive bassline which are surprisingly catchy!
I love these guys and it would be great if you could check out their facebook page: HERE
So today's post will be about band called Those who seek. These guys have one EP out called "Because really, we're just animals". You can have a listen to it on their bandcamp site HERE!
The band's EP has all ranges of genres including a punk-rock track "Look to the skies". I don't usually like this type of bass heavy confused drum beat music, but these guys are an exception. I really like their track "Run from me" which you really don't expect after hearing their first track. This a slower song with mellow opening verses showing the vocal talent and multi-genre writing ability of the band. It progresses into a captivating chorus and some amazing guitar work. The track "sex won't fill your heart" is full of crashing symbols that sound like waves breaking. This song is more indie-rock which is great, probably my favourite. Their last song "Veritas Occulta" is more rock again, still extremely heavy. This song has a fast tempo and building guitar chords with drums crashing all the way through. The song includes fast pace beats and a destructive bassline which are surprisingly catchy!
I love these guys and it would be great if you could check out their facebook page: HERE
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