All posts by Indie Buddie

Grit - Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Mowbeck ‘The Basement’

Nottingham rock outfit Mowbeck are back with their newest single ‘The Basement’ which follows their debut EP ‘Talkabout’. After storming sets at Reading & Leeds festival last year on BBC Introducing Stages with sold out headline shows of their own, the band headed back into the studio at the start of the year working on new material. The band’s previous tracks ‘Talkabout’ and ‘Vaseline’ both received significant support from BBC Introducing’s Dean Jackson and lead to national radio play around the country on BBC Radio 1 and Radio X. The video’s which have gained over 15,000 views to date split audience and critic’s opinions for its dark, graphic portrayal of sexual abuse from a male victim’s perspective.
‘The Basement’ is a sublime rush of brain freezing indie rock with sweet pop melodies cooled with breezy tones and chilling bite on guitar. Flowing at a running pace this track is an uplifting anthem smoothed in melancholic tones. Sharp guitar stings and blasts through the track with flashes of zealous strident vitality. Punchy drums add bounce and spring while the raspy smooth soothing vocals pack an emotional punch. ‘The Basement’ is an atmospheric soaring tune that uses dark sombre tender tones and blistering instrumentation to create a grit pop sound that is compelling and powerful.
With more material ready to release later in the year Mowbeck will be playing a number of shows over the coming months including festivals. You can catch them live at
April 11th – Nottingham, Bodega (supporting King No One)
April 12th – Sheffield, Leadmill (supporting King No One)
April 13th – Liverpool, Studio 2 (supporting King No One)
April 14th – York, Fibbers (supporting King No One)
Stream ‘The Basement’ below

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Sarah Munro ‘Say Hello To You’

Sarah Munro is a 20 year old singer-songwriter and guitarist from Hertfordshire who writes jazz-pop songs with a strong emphasis on lyrics and storytelling. She has just released her debut album ‘Say Hello To You’, featuring 10 original songs and a stunning interpretation of the jazz classic ‘Autumn Leaves’. Munro’s music has been championed by Jamie Cullum and Michael Ball, both of whom have played her single ‘For Eternity’ on their BBC Radio 2 shows. She has also received radio airplay on Jazz FM, BBC 6 Music, France Musique, as well as radio stations worldwide and recently supported Paul Carrack on his 24 date UK 2017 tour, playing in prestigious venues including Birmingham Symphony Hall and the London Palladium. She has also supported legendary American songwriter Jimmy Webb, and in January performed a sold-out headline show at The Pheasantry in Chelsea.
‘Say Hello To You’ is the title track on the album and showcases Munro’s beautiful talented knack for charming simple story telling. Displaying her crisp stunning vocal Munro narrates a sweet tender tale of acceptance of ones self. Feathery light guitar accompaniment and twinkling keys lift the track into a flurry of weightless beauty. Its innocent and charming while bringing a tear to your eye. Coated in positive motivational and assuring tones its the track you put on for your sister, daughter, friend etc to tell them be yourself and love yourself. Munro displays a mature voice for her age with control and expression that assures her destiny as a budding star. Whether this is your genre of music or not just Monro’s vocals alone will have you mesmerised and captivated.
Sarah Munro will return to perform at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival, on May 1st, performing in the 600-seat PizzaExpress Live Arena. She will also be playing at the Cornbury Festival on July 9th.
Watch the video for ‘Say Hello To You’ below

A Chat With, Interviews

A Chat With : The Jackobins

 

We caught up with The Jackobins ahead of their sold out hometown show tonight. To see what they have been up to and what we can look forward to next.

So bring us right back to the beginning for The Jackobins where did the band start and why?
The Jackobins started when Veso wouldn’t take no for an answer, and after what amounted to stalking myself for a few months, I gave in and agreed to form a band with him. I would have formed it earlier, but after arranging to meet up in this shady pub, he was a no show and so I got drunk and ended up talking to some other musicians in there and got sidetracked for a few months. Eventually we got jamming in an old terraced house in Wavertree, where Veso and our old keyboardist John, and original drummer, Arthur all lived together (along with some guy living in the ceiling). I remember our earliest sessions, Arthur would have a full kit set up in the kitchen near the sink, Veso would be sat on the stairs with the guitar, and me and John would be in the bathroom with keys and vocals.

You have had a shift in the lineup, and have welcomed two new members what brought about this?
A band is only as strong as its weakest relationship between any two members, and personalities were clashing with almost everyone having a different idea of how to move forward, and it gets to a point where you realise forcing yourself to be around certain people is not good for either yourself or for them. But out of all the shit that inevitably comes with band politics, something really great has come out in the form of our new members, Tom (bass) and Sean (drums). The drive and ability of the two of them is really inspiring and already in the short time they have been on board, we have moved forwards in ways we just couldn’t have done previously. They are a real pleasure to work with and I am genuinely looking forward to going out on tour with them (and Veso I suppose).

So introduce us to this new lineup of The Jackobins?
As I mentioned above, I am very pleased to announce Sean Burns on drums, and Tom Donoghue on bass, both of them are gifted musicians, but perhaps more importantly, they are sound lads and great fun to be around, this incarnation of the Jackobins is far more relaxed than ever before, but paradoxically, its almost the most productive version of the band to date, and so much creativity is being unlocked.

You’ve been gigging around the UK with many festivals under your belts what has been the highlight so far?
We do love festivals, the atmosphere is just something else, its always hard when someone asks you to pick highlights, but I think we would probably go with Y Not Festival 2016, we had a ball on the This Feeling Stage, the crowds were unreal and we got to hangout with a lot of great bands, the backstage area was messy, it was glorious.

Your singles ‘Waiting For The Sun’, ‘One More Chance’ and ‘Hasty’ have all displayed how you are growing and improving as a band musically. Each track showcasing a new more refined aspect to your sound, ‘Hasty’ being the most recent release, what sparked or led to this more refined sound?

We are constantly exploring our sound, and just when we think we know all the corners, we find another one. Like most bands, we are our own worst critics (we have so many unreleased and unplayed songs), but this motivates us towards better and better records. As I mentioned earlier, since the lineup change, the atmosphere in the band has changed, and this change has manifested itself in a flood of new songs that we are currently working on.

Big anthem blasters and sing along chorus’ seem to be the main feature of your tracks they are catchy and mighty is this what you try to achieve or does it come naturally?
We have never really set out to make a certain sound, we pluck ideas out of the air, and if we like it, we roll with it, and it becomes a Jackobins song. Its funny how you look back and realise you’ve kind of created something without noticing. But that being said, we are fans of big anthemic sounding songs, they can capture an audience in just this most fucking brilliant, special way, they are easily accessible, which is important, because isn’t one of the main miracles of music, the ability to connect with people?
Strong bass lines and dynamic zealous bright guitars are a massive feature and I’m sure a big contributor to why your songs are so infectious where do these riffs and licks come from?
In a word, Veso…. He’s very much our Surge, I have always been blown away by his ability to create these addictive riffs , that whilst demanding attention, leave room for the rest of the song to grow around.

You guys have been quiet lately is this to create anticipation for something big to come?
We have been rebuilding the band in the wake of the lineup changes, and literally haven’t stopped behind the scenes, but probably more importantly, we’ve been taking some time to enjoy being a band again and creating new material.

Have you got plans to release any new music this year?
We have recently been in the studio with Sugarhouse again, recording some new material, we are looking forward to revealing it soon, then we will be back in June recording more again. Our last release was Hasty which was some time ago, which is really depressing… 2016 was a good year on the road for us, but the internal fighting really crashed our creative party.. but now with the changes that have happened, we have got this torrent of ideas and songs bursting out and we cant wait to get them out there.

You have a hometown show this Friday, which is sold out that must feel good?
Playing our hometown is a special treat for us these days, we are here like once or twice a year normally, but they never disappoint! The Magnet where we will be playing is probably our favourite venue in Liverpool and Liverpool crowds are some of the best there are!

What can your fans expect from your upcoming shows?
Lots and lots of new material, along with old fan favorites, the band has changed, and I think people are going to like what they see and hear. Also they can expect a lot of dirty riffs, big vocals and energetic performance.
What are you looking forward to this summer?
We got a tour that starts this week with a Sold Out home show which is always fun. There’s several great festivals announced and plenty more we can’t reveal just yet which we are buzzing about. Particularly we can’t wait to play Sound City and Hope and Glory as it’s on home soil and both festivals have done a stellar job especially when it comes to emerging artists.
Any Irish dates planned?
You’ll have to wait until September, but we really are dying to get over.

You can have a listen to The Jackobins tasty tunes on Spotify here


Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, New Music

Indie Buddie Introducing : Dome Hall

Dome Hall are a Newcastle based alternative indie band. Consisting of members Danny Lynd ( Lead vocals), Matty Floyd (Bass guitar, vocals), Olly Brooks (Sax), Matt Edge (Keyboard) and Dom Hall (Drums) they fully embrace the clean indie sound with added quirky components such as saxophone and keyboard. The band have released their debut single ‘Marske Woods’ today.
‘Marske Woods’ is a sweet little ditty, gentle, delicate and oozing warm comforting tones. Rich diverse instrumentation takes this track into a mushy mellow bliss with the glowing snug tones on saxophone really setting a laid back vibe. The soft cushioned beat and bounce on bass give the track a vibrancy and suppleness. With a creamy easy flowing melody it is melt in your mouth good while jazz-like keys glide with elegance and style. Velvety smooth vocals soothe while the sax playfully frolics with a swanky dashing charm. This track exudes fine sharp classy musicianship.
Dome Hall will be playing Hit The North Festival on the 28th April so make sure to check them out.
Stream ‘Marske Woods’ below

Album Release, Album Review, Electronic, New Music

Second Hand Spaceman ‘Blast Off’ Album

 

Electronic Producer Second Hand Spaceman is set to release  his debut album ‘Blast Off’ on 28th April with 100% of Pre-Order sales being donated to the World Land Trust to help them with their vital rainforest conservation work and to help to spread a positive, educational message about saving the environment. This is the first project embarked upon by Second Hand Spaceman. The album itself has been a work in progress for the past 18 months and was self-written, recorded and produced.
‘Blast Off’ is a viscid flex of electronic grooves mixed with orchestral and ambient flavours splashed against a host of synthesisers with a hint of hip hop thrown in. Right from the first track on the album, ‘Nice Planet’ Second Hand Spaceman sucks you into his spacey eerie vibe with spooky alien-like soundscapes and sticky beats. Its a wobbly electronic phenomenon. ‘Blast Off’ brings us a big band bouncy feel, vibrant and bright with brass-like sounds and triumphant vibes. Throughout the album Second Hand Spaceman shows off his skill to create a cinematic visual for the listeners to experience from jubilant hearty sounds to delicate twinkling in tracks such as ‘Uncharted’ and ‘Discovery’. A sense of magical elegance is created with sparkling light keys against an edgy sonic background. Its definitely an album for adventures as it opens the mind to all possibilities where there is no limits not even musically.

You can pre order the album here https://www.secondhandspaceman.com/

Indie - Surfer, Indie Dream Rock, New Music, Surf Rock, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From The Velveteins

Canadian trio The Velveteins have released their new track ‘Midnight Surf’ which is taken off their upcoming debut full length ‘Slow Wave’ which will be released this May 12th. ‘Midnight Surf’ is a glazed over crooning slow jam that has a simple approach but cuts deep. Like a wave the track swooshes in and out with gentle delicacy. Soft instrumentation with cushioned beats accompanies the emotionally raw expressive vocals as the beautiful sway-like honey coated melody floats by in soothing clouds and tugs hard on the heart strings. The sharp sting on guitar freshens the track up adding slashes to the soft bouncy sombre song. Smothered in melancholic tones and hazy daydream vibes The Velveteins give us a track that oozes bleeding emotion while lulling you into a daze.
Stream ‘Midnight Surf’ below

 


Indie, Indie Folk, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Justin Lacy ‘Sealed’

Justin Lacy has recently released his new single ‘Sealed’ from his upcoming record ‘Control Burn’ out on April 13. Lacy is not your typical singer-songwriter, he is equal parts lyricist, arranger, composer and performer.  His oddball vocal delivery of image-heavy lines, steeped in sweeping orchestral arrangements creates his own little pocket of unique yet captivating indie guitar folk.

‘Sealed’ is a prime example of Lacy’s bright quirky approach to song writing that twists your ears to a blissfully unique blend of sweet melodies and subtle bursts of joy. Featuring a  bouncy and optimistic array of inventive instrumentation. With child-like warm toned flickering on guitar, honeyed lull on backing vocals and luscious ear worm melody, ‘Sealed’ fast warms its way into you mind and heart. The use of the glockenspiel adds a darker bittersweet tone while also creating a rich contrast. The song is almost cinematic and theatrical at times adding a little tension and drama to the fluffy candy coated track. For me Lacy’s nylon-string guitar creates a beautiful delicate sound with a warmth and tone that I cannot stop listening to. Lacy’s quirky vocals adds a dramatic almost striking quality however its perfect for this track and completes the songs blossom into the delightful peculiar track that will put a smile  on your face.

Stream ‘Sealed’ below

https://soundcloud.com/justin-lacy/sealed-1

Alt Rock, Garage Rock, Hypnotic, Indie, indie rock, New Music, psychedelic, Rock

Odd Couple ‘Am I Evil’

Our favourite new garage-rock duo Tammo Dehn and Jascha Kreft from Odd Couple have released their new single Am I Evil’. This follows their previous banger ‘Gone Solid’ which we featured on Indie Buddie last month. Both tracks feature on their debut album ‘Flügge’ which is due for release later this month.

‘Am I Evil’ is a fatal blast of ruthlessly sleek infectious garage rock that effortlessly drifts from slinky and groovy to head banging mania. Mind blowing and blissfully obscure this duo know what they are doing as they present us with a septic jaunt back to a time when things weren’t so mercilessly sanitised and lobotomised. Dirty gritty riffs forcefully hook you into their villainous prowl while Odd Couple question their unhealthiest and most intrusive thoughts. Mighty pulverising drums bring the track to that powerful brawny punch and mosh worthy frenzy. With western cowboy-like guitar interjections and incredibly slick guitar licks, Odd Couple gives you mind numbing thrilling opaque fierceness that holds a slithery retro sleekness. It’s sultry silky and packs a mighty punch all while having a retro tint and brutish swagger. These guys are ones to watch.

Stream ‘Am I Evil’ below

Alt Rock, Blues Rock, Fuzz Rock, indie rock

We Three Kings ‘Momma Said’

We Three Kings are a three piece blues-rock band from Manchester UK, comprised of members Rich on vocals and guitar, Paul on bass and Pete on drums. After years of experience playing in various touring bands, in 2016 they came together to form We Three Kings and have released their debut EP ‘Embers’. Describing their sound as an original blend of rock, blues, fuzz and noise, their influences stretch across many genres including mainstream and independent rock and blues from all over the world.
The lead track for the EP ‘Momma Said’ is a fine example of the trios gritty fuzzed bluesy sound. Bursting from the start with a hefty beefy riff this track is a booming rough and ready punch of brawny rock. Thunderous drums pound through the track with relentless stamina while the strong roar almost wail in vocals strikes you with rock anthem fury. Its rapid neck snapping mosh worthy rock all bulky and turbulent that will have a live audience in a manic frenzy. A razor sharp guitar solo and frantic instrumental finishes the track with intense energy and might leaving you wanting more.
We Three Kings will be playing live shows throughout 2017, with more new and original music already in the works so keep and eye out for that.
Get the ‘Embers’ EP here https://wethreekings.bandcamp.com/releases
Stream ‘Momma Said’ below

 

 

electro- pop, Electronic, Indie Electro, New Music

S.O.S ‘Silent Witness’

Bedford-based, 22-year-old singer songwriter Sophie Debattista aka S.O.S. has released her eagerly awaited second single ‘Silent Witness’ off her debut EP ‘Edges Of The Mind’. S.O.S is a first-class graduate from The Institute Of Contemporary Music Performance. She headed the production team on the trend-setting track alongside the renowned mastering engineer Shane the Cutter who has worked with the likes of Nathan Fake, Luke Abbott, Blu Mar Ten and DJ Shadow amongst others. The young singer has supported US superstars Ciara and Ariana Grande, British legends Take That and One Direction whilst playing top venues such as the NEC Birmingham, The Roundhouse Camden, IndigO2, O2 Islington Academy, Barfly Camden, Proud Camden (headliner), Troubadour (headliner) and The Water Rats to name a few. S.O.S’s tantalising lead single ‘Bittersweet’ received top press coverage and radio play including support from the likes of BBC Introducing, BBC6’s Tom Robinson and Clash Music amongst many others.
‘Silent Witness’ is a glossy pop track laced in sticky tar- like darkened electronics. This catchy track holds an air of mystery and shadowy tones with almost whispered seductive vocals for the verse luring you into the entrapment of the infectious chorus. The track displays crisp production and well blended crafted sounds, featuring pulsing sticky electronically influenced beats and intricate detailed lyrics. Smothered in intensity this track is a catchy vibrant pop tune cloaked with dark gluey electronics. The electro-pop tune will be accompanied by an edgy and intense music video created by up-and-coming director AJ Ullah and will be released on the 14th April via her independent label Sossy Music.

When asked about the track Sophie said:
“Silent Witness is about a young girl who finds herself in a difficult situation. She’s at an age where her friends are beginning to experiment with new ventures however she doesn’t feel like she’s ready to join them just yet and doesn’t want to rush into maturing too quickly. When she finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time, she has to make an important decision whether to live up to her friends’ expectations or whether to listen to her heart and not go through with it. The song explores the different emotions that the young girl goes through at this tough time. She wants to remain credible but wants to be sensible, so does she go through with it? You’ll have to listen to the song to find out…”.
Stream ‘Silent Witness’ below