Alternative rock group Think Sanity have released their debut, self-titled album.Think Sanity began as a side project, thought up by original members Trent and Andie Johnson after their previous work with Daniel Brasher in band ‘Ink Mind’. Since then, Think Sanity have grown into a solid five piece which includes the talented, Breihan (Bob) Dryden who currently drums for 80’s themed alt-rock group ‘The Sunsets’ and is former vocalist of metal band, ‘Escapist.’ Newest member Jack Vermuth joins as guitarist and bassist to complete the team. Mental Health is a topic close to their hearts, so with careful lyricism and powerful rhythm the band deliver their sound as a route to escape.
With tracks laced in powerful alternative rock Think Sanity’s debut self titled album is a mature and well crafted collection. Crashing guitars, pulverising drums and a harsh brawny wall of sound create the fundamentals for opening track ‘Mothra’ as well as throughout ‘Sad Kaiju’, ‘Surgery’, ‘Automotan’ and ‘Breaking The Panorama’ with the more emotional delicate ‘Blood Thinners & Aspirin’ creating a sublime balance. The album features refined, epic guitar moments as they pine, whine or sultry soar throughout the tracks flooding them with character. Think Sanity flesh out their neck breaking speed with the fierce ‘I’m A Liar’ as the powerful vocals blend perfectly with screaming backing vocals and a mammoth instrumental backdrop. The band present their stomping ferocity in the disco hued ‘Sludge’ while ‘Questions’ sprinkles a dash of attitude onto a metal – esque backdrop. The band pack in layers of rich musicianship through their pummeling sound while lyrically dealing with relatable, emotional and powerful themes. Each track boasts the mighty, well crafted instrumental prowess of the band without compromising on quality. ‘I’m Real, I Think’ closes the album as the band began it, dynamic and vigorous as mighty drums and bass create a mosh worthy foundation for the slick guitars to crash and ricochet off while the vocals pine and exclaim over the catchy melody. The infectious riffage through this album is an admirable quality which Think Sanity have mastered along with a tight shredding wall of sound.
Think Sanity’s debut album is impressive with layers of creativity and intelligent musicianship.
Liverpool’s very own gypsy-rock band, The Shipbuilders, have released their latest doubled-sided single, ‘Silk Road’ which marks a moment of change for the band, their first release under new label Mai 68.
‘Silk Road’ is a beautiful number glistening with lustrous guitar lines, buoyant rhythms and a velvety melody as The Shipbuilders present a rich, dreamy 60’s hued track to indulge in. The band layer the song sublimely with blissful guitar twinkling between a satin indie pop sheen of delight. It’s an authentic heart warming track that creates magical tones of wonder through charming and refined musicianship. With soft vocals, a catchy melody and floaty psychedelic soundscapes this silken track glides effortlessly into your ears ready to prompt repeat plays.
The band will play a string of shows in the upcoming months. You can catch them live at:
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Y!KES
Birmingham alternative four-piece Y!KES have released their new single ‘Visceral’ which was produced by singer Joby Fitzgerald and recorded at Magic Garden Studio. Laced in the frenzied sharp guitar lines we have come to know Y!KES for, ‘Visceral’ is another blistering frantic anthem from the four piece. Pulverizing drums, rooted bass grooves and gritty vocals announce this scorching ferocious number as the band build and flesh out their mammoth sound. With a catchy melody, cutting lyricism and grunge filled energy- this brawny whack of alternative rock is perfect for blasting as loud as possible.Sharp flirtations on guitar entwine cheekily between the powerhouse wall of sound, showcasing the bands majestic musicianship and ability to add depth and maturity to their sound. ‘Visceral’ is another frenzied swagger steeped number from Y!KES.
Bio: Pelicandy are a London alt-pop duo who shared their first release of 2019 ‘Silent Treatment’ earlier this spring, the two-piece have already received widespread acclaim throughout the tastemaker community and across the airwaves (BBC Radio 1, Virgin),
Track: White Sky
About the track vocalist TC stated:“White Sky is about realising the ability to focus and reframe your own thoughts and perception of reality. Choosing what world you want to live in depending more on your mind-set than your surrounding environment, it’s like a superpower that anyone can learn. Depending on how we direct our thoughts we can even change our body’s own biology. It sounds like science fiction or new-age spirituality but it’s legit psychology and neuroscience”!
Why We Like It: It’s a shimmering funk flavoured synth driven track that glides upon cool chilled tones and a laid back atmosphere. With refreshing crisp synths glistening through snappy drums and breezy soundscapes this electronic number is brimming with swagger and summer vibes. Featuring a zesty stinging guitar solo and an infectious melody this velvety gem is instantly likeable.
Bio: Michael Jablonka has been gigging since the tender age of 14 as an in-demand guitarist for hire. His skills have been utilised by some of the country’s major rock and pop acts, and this summer Jablonka continues his tour of arenas and festivals worldwide with fellow North Londoner and Brit-soul sensation Michael Kiwanuka
Track: ‘Go- Go’
Why We Like It: It’s a haunting number that broods Jablonka’s refined thrilling musicianship. A steady drum beat sets a hypnotic tone for this thrilling track to flourish off while the sweet lamenting guitar chimes between this eerie sulky backdrop. The song builds becoming more passionate as distorted guitar pines and shrills flesh out Jablonka’s raw edgy sound. The song progresses beautifully from its laid back beginnings, gradually building to a soul infused rock crescendo brimming with intensity as the gritty guitar solo taking the track to spine chilling heights.
Bio: Following a whirlwind start to the year, which saw them being named as the only band on the BBC’s Sound of 2019 list and playing their biggest ever sold out live show at London’s Heaven, Sea Girls are excited to share the news that they have signed a record deal with Polydor Records (Billie Eilish, Sam Fender, The 1975). Earlier this month, the band announced their biggest UK shows for this autumn, kicking off in Nottingham on 2nd October
Track: Damage Done
Vocalist and songwriter Henry Camamile explains the track:“Damage Done is about young love and moving on. The night before the song was written I recognised that a part of my past was amazing, a bit flawed and broken all at the same time. I wanted to try to be at peace with it, and to realise that better things are to come rather than holding onto the past. I sort of told myself I’m singing to no one if I’m not thinking of the future.”
Why We Like It: It’s another passionate compelling track from Sea Girls that sweeps you up into a clenching surge of adrenaline. The sweet toned guitar twinkles between a snappy pulsing beat creating the tense and suspenseful verses that tease the anthemic chorus to come. These guys have an insane ability to create gripping, youthful tunes that rush into your veins with the expectation, kinetic energy and flutter of a first kiss while packing in some impressive indie backing to keep everything invigorating and refreshing. With an infectious melody, energetic bass, passionate warm vocals and precise exhilarating musicianship- it’s one sublime whoosh of indie to have you hooked in seconds.
Bio: Fast establishing themselves as one of the North East’s finest emerging acts,Teesside quintet Llovers have released their debut EP ‘Things That I Don’t Understand’, preceded by sparkling lead single ‘Coming Loose’ out via Think Tank? Drawing widespread acclaim across the airwaves (BBC Radio, 1, BBC 6 Music) over the last 18 months with a series of early releases, the band have already demonstrated their buoyant live potential supporting acts including Sundara Karma, Dream Wife and VANT.
Track: Coming Loose
About the track co frontman Jack Brooks stated : “Coming Loose deals with the anxieties that can come from being in a relationship, specifically one in which there’s little affection given from a paramour on the surface. It describes these feelings while also establishing which is used as a form of comfort within thenarrative of the track”.
Why We Like It: It’s a sparkling indie pop delight that swoons and floats around a delicious melody, shimmering synths and warm velvety vocals. A lustrous soundscape floods the track in dazzling scintillation while glittering guitars and a steady beat provide a wispy dreamy quality making this track so easy on the ears. The bitter sweet melody contrasts sublimely with the vibrant instrumental backdrop as the song soaks in summer vibes, psychedelic pop embellishments and rich textures.
Rain have released their debut EP ‘Volume 1’. The band which is a three piece from Sunderland in the north east of England is comprised of lead singer and guitarist Patrick Ashurst, Alex Liddle on bass and Ben Mitchell on drums and backing vocals.
‘Volume 1’ is a compact EP brimming with Rain’s engaging indie rock. ‘You Used To Say’ sets the EP in motion with the sweet chime and jingle of indie soaked guitar with punchy drums and a rooted bass. Rain present a chilled summer drenched sound that hooks you from the start as laid back vocals mope over the vibrant instrumentation. Their sound is tight and brimming with zesty engaging guitar lines that are intoxicating to the ears. ‘Let Me Free’ brings a rock n ‘roll shimmy to their sound with swagger drizzled on top of gritty sharp guitar and buoyant rhythms. A little darker than its predecessor this track has a smoky more abrasive vibe. ‘Across the Dim Line’ closes the EP with light jangly guitar and indie rock soundscapes. The nonchalant vocals add a moody quality to the verses before the track bursts into its catchy chorus.
Rain are crafting their sound and fleshing out their indie alternative flavours. ‘Volume 1’ is a tight well formed EP that showcases a promising band finding their brand and style while creating some enjoyable tunes.
Electric Shore have released their new single ‘Hurricane’. Electric Shore are a three piece indie rock band from Ratoath Co.Meath, Ireland. Their debut single ‘Too Different’ which was released in 2018 was followed by the even more successful ‘Someone New’. The band participated and won RTÉ 2Fm’s Play The Picnic Competition, which landed them a slot at the Iconic Irish Festival. Last February the band released the highly successful track, ‘Darkness Of You’ which received nationwide radio play, and accumulated thousands of Spotify streams.
‘Hurricane’ is a melodically lush indie pop-rock gem that floods with emotion,catchy hooks and the rich musicianship we have come to love from Electric Shore. Intricate guitar lines weave sharp stings of delight through the track adding hues of bright scintillation while also creating sweet tones of longing. The band have crafted and layered the song perfectly as the rhythm shuffles, pulses and builds, creating tension before the massive chorus. With a thrilling rumble on bass, anthemic vibe and powerful vocals ‘Hurricane’ is a driving, exhilarating number that is sure to compel repeat plays. The western- esque desert guitars flicker between the ethereal soundscapes creating the perfect atmosphere for summer listening as Electric Shore balance exhilarating instrumentation with moving lyricism. ‘Hurricane’ is another mesmerising track from Electric Shore.
Electric Shore will launch this brand new single with a headline gig Upstairs in Whelan’s on the 16th of June. It’s one not to miss.
Carrying on swiftly from the buzz of their previous single ‘All That Remains Won’t Be The Same’, Irish alternative rock band Otherkin continue in fine form with the release of their latest single ‘On & On’, coming alongside the announcement of UK tour dates this Autumn. The band have enjoyed significant success in recent times, with airplay support from BBC RADIO 1 as well as radio play back in Ireland and playlist support on all the main streaming platforms.
‘On & On’ is a swagger dripping gem as Otherkin flourish the glimmering electronic facet to their sound. Featuring a kick ass guitar riff, groove infested rhythm and darkly-smothered wall of sound this dazzling number swarms in, swanky, chic and engulfed in attitude. The raspy vocals pour over the infectious melody while the frazzling backdrop, elastic bass and shrilling guitars create the most breathtaking, adrenaline inducing listening experience. With a catchy chorus, peppy key jingles, rich production and mind melting dance-floor vibes this exhilarating new track is another gush of Otherkin’s outstanding sound. These guys are on a roll.
Speaking on their inspiration, the band say: ‘’We were listening to a ton of French House before making ‘On & On’ and felt inspired to make a song for the dance floor. As we were approaching it from the context of being a guitar band, we thought it would be cool to break the song up with a huge riff, bringing the two worlds together. We paired it with a story of a guy we know who’s a conniving, scheming weasel that’ll never change his ways, regardless of what happens to him.This song is like one fist in the air and one middle finger in the air to him.’’
Following an exciting Electrowerkz show in London, Otherkin will be heading back out on the road across the UK this September. Tickets will go on sale on Friday 24th May. Catch them live at the following venues:
19th – Hyde Park Book Club, Leeds
20th – The Basement, York21st – Think Tank? Underground, Newcastle
22nd – Nice N Sleazy, Glasgow
23rd – The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham
24th – Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff26th – Face Bar, Reading
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From INHALER
Dublin’s INHALER have released their new double A-side ‘My Honest Face’. Comprising of Robert Keating on bass, Ryan McMahon on drums, Josh Jenkinson on lead and Elijah Hewson on vocals and rhythm, INHALER have already gained support from Radio 1, Radio X and BBC Radio 6 Music as well as earning a coveted placement in the New Music Friday US playlist with 2019’s first offering ‘It Won’t Always Be Like This’ and playlists across the globe.
‘My Honest Face’ is an exhilarating rush of indie rock that puts INHALER on the map. The rugged sound of driving bass lines and punchy drums create the gripping foundation while sweet lamenting shimmers of guitar lift the track to majestic and ethereal heights. It’s a gripping and powerful number as the band flesh out their big and lofty sound with weighty instrumentation and honest lyricism. Filling you with that sudden rush of heart stopping emotion, the band exude swagger through their magnificent guitar work. They weave and pine through the darkened soundscapes which coil and curdle between tension and conflicting bitter sweet tones. There’s beauty in this bands musicianship. They shape the moving lyrics around heart stopping instrumentation. With passionate vocals, this track steamrolls into your head with relentless stamina and oodles of gusto. INHALER are ones to keep an eye on.
INHALER are currently on a UK tour with Stockport’s rising stars Fuzzy Sun, before joining Blossoms & Courteeners on their festival warm up dates this summer. In between these dates, you can catch INHALER at festivals across the UK and Ireland including Neighbourhood Weekender, TRNSMT, Truck Festival and Boardmasters. They have also been added to the bill at Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds’ show at Dublin’s Malahide Castle.
INHALER – 2019 Live Irish Dates
June Sun 16th – Co. Dublin, Malahide Castle* (with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds)
Dublin alternative rock trio Valhalla have released their debut EP ‘Big Men, They Fall’. The band comprised of Mark Boyle (Vocals & Guitar), Barry Monahan (Bass) and Luke Alford (Drums) have been hard at work with multiple live headline shows across the Dublin scene in such venues as The Workmans Club, Sin E, The Sound House, The Underground and Fibber Magees. 2018 saw the band play a sold-out show in Whelan’s for the single launch of “Hear Me Calling” which has been well received with airplay on Radio Nova & RTE 2XFM.
‘Big Men,They Fall’ foreshadows a promising future for Valhalla. This intoxicating EP is full of wonderful engaging guitar lines, infectious grooves, stomping rhythms and sublime melodies. It’s not just the jagged rawness and subtle hue of rock slapped aggression in ‘Don’t Leave Her Down’ that engages and lures your ears into their music. It’s also the sweet melodies and meaty riffs and how they bring a sleek, emotional quality into their powerful tracks. This perfect blend of edgy rock, moody indie and soft delicate moments is what makes this EP a mature and refined experience.With ethereal, almost celestial tones on guitar glimmering through the dark smoky ‘Don’t Leave Her Down’ Valhalla showcase the bands proficient ability to meticulously craft and build their tracks beautifully. The powerful vocals from Mark Boyle surge each track with emotion and warm tones. ‘Hear Me Calling’ brings a funky flex to the EP as the rooted bass weaves a hip moving groove through the sultry guitar while the punchy drums keep the foundation lean and mean. With a clap along feature, enticing melody and perfect blend of gritty/silken textures- this trio find the sweet spot between dark rawness and strut worthy sleekness, solidifying their hold on your ears. ‘The Revenant’ slows the tone as Boyle pines over an emotional melody and gripping instrumentation. This is one for the teary power punch in the air as we see a tender side to the bands musicianship all while packing in beautiful guitar work and engaging rhythms leading us perfectly to the final track ‘Cryptic’. A tender, icy number that exposes raw emotion through a bittersweet melody and compelling instrumentation.
‘Big Men,They Fall’ is a four track EP that boasts the intricately cultivated and tight musicianship of Valhalla. The band have a full, rich sound and maturity that stands composed, passionate and impressive. They are ones to keep an eye on.
Alternative, Post Rock collective, Branch to Root have released their new single, ‘Home’.Since the beginning, the band have toured around the UK as a four piece band, spurring on an online fan-base of dedicated listeners.
‘Home’ is an emotional raw track that sways beautifully through ethereal instrumentation and Branch to Root’s powerful expressive musicianship. The biting guitars mournfully twinkle through the icy verses while the raspy vocals coo the tender melody. The instrumentation floats delicately through the verses with an emotional fragility before building into a powerful chorus. The guitars crash off the punchy drum thuds creating the most hair raising and compelling atmosphere as the chorus explodes into an anthemic expression. The lyrics convey that holding onto negative emotions does nothing but impede growth and the band display this perfectly through building the turmoil inflicted instrumentation. Branch to Root create a subtle push and pull effect between the verses and chorus that builds tension beautiful and pours immense passion and emotion into this sublime track.
About the track the band said : “Despite the heartache, we reluctantly wish that those who leave us will get where they need to, mentally and emotionally making it “home”.
You can catch Branch to Root live at : – Kingsfest, Sunday 26th May, Llanidloes Rugby Club, Llanidloes, Wales.
– Chester Pride Festival, Saturday 10th August, Music Is Now Stage, Castle Square, Chester, England.
Stream ‘Home’ below
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
