New Australian pop punk band Da-sh have released their new single ‘See You Later’.Da-sh is the brainchild of Ashlie Woods and David Thompson who hail from sunny Western Australia. Recorded with Troy Nababan at Hammerspace Studios, the song came together quickly after singer Ashlie and guitarist Dave had created a demo in their pyjamas at Dave’s house.
‘See You Later’ is a blistering whack of pop punk as Da-sh present their raw vigorous sound with plenty of passion and attitude. With shredding guitar slashing into the pummeling drums, Da-sh create a meaty crashing wall of sound brimming with fiery angst. The rumbling on bass wriggles through the songs underbelly creating an ominous dark undertone while the catchy pop punk melody and powerful vocals showcase the band’s might and energy. As the track explodes into its brawny raw chorus the lyrics boldly remind us that we are better off without toxic people, no matter what they try and make you think. ‘See You Later’ is a lean, mean, powerful new single from Da-sh.
The video for the track was shot with Joseph Varley of DarKSpirit Photography. Speaking of the video, Da-sh says “We love how Joseph’s videos have an ominous undertone. Even though the video is quite bright and pretty to look at, there is definitely the darker context there.”
GEOFF has released his latest album ‘Nothing Lasts Forever’. With a polished and clean sound, ‘Nothing Lasts Forever’ is the second studio album to come from electro-alternative rocker GEOFF.
Exuding hook filled melodies, ‘Nothing Lasts Forever’ is an anthemic album laced in alternative rock. From the exuberant energy and shredding guitar riffs of ‘My Egirlfriend’ to the thumping beat and rush of adrenaline in ‘You Dream Away’, GEOFF creates a diverse and explosive listening experience. Within this album we see pop punk melodies, driving rhythmic foundations and soaring guitar riffs. There are glimmers of 80’s pop within ‘Last Chance’, while ‘Treason’ provides a glimpse into the passionate and expressive alternative rock side of GEOFF. Delicate tunes such as title track ‘Nothing Lasts Forever’ showcase the depth within GEOFF’s vocals as he coos through sweet melodies, elegant strings and soft guitar lines.
‘Nothing Lasts Forever’ is a collection of spine tingling heartfelt tracks. Displaying dramatic vocals, shimmering synths and passionate ballads, GEOFF utilises his refined musicianship to create an album of uplifting, diverse and dynamic tunes.
Inspired by conspiracy theories and those that relish in spreading them comes the new single from UK pop punk artist Matt Warren. Tongue-in cheek ‘Bill’s A Fool’ takes on the character that we all see on social media with an opinion about everything. Cheshire based Matt Warren has carved out his own path in music, pushing the boundaries of hair metal and punk music. He played in bands throughout his teens, even getting scouted by a number of top-class labels and management companies that worked with artists like Deus and Space. His early band Smackwater Jack was formed in the 90’s and gained much critical acclaim before coming to a halt in the mid 2000’s. During the Covid-19 outbreak, Matt Warren once again picked up his guitar and returned to writing. This recent project has resulted in a debut solo album, made up from two months of rigorous writing and some 30 songs.
‘Bill’s A Fool’ is a sun soaked alternative pop/rock track oozing a glorious melody spread upon Matt Warren’s witty songwriting and hook-laced backdrop. With jangly guitars executing sharp riffs through a buoyant beat the track is an upbeat fun tune. Showcasing smooth vocals and lush harmonies, Warren pokes fun at society while providing an energetic catchy gem that is sure to make you smile.
Vulpynes are back with their latest EP ‘Us Against Them’ on FOAD/Advance Records.The four blistering tracks were initially penned as part of their debut album, however when Covid hit they decided to release the four tracks as an EP.
‘Us Against Them’ is a fantastic display of raw untainted alternative rock. Vulpynes lean heavily on a punk, abrasive attitude to create a knockout four track EP boasting some seriously heavy riffage. With fuzz-laced guitar riffs and pummelling drums ‘One Horse Mind’ is the perfect album opener. This adrenaline-fuelled song is sure to have you moshing within seconds.
Vulpynes douse their sound in sinister undertones, catchy melodies and vigorous hooks to make ‘Sister’ one of the pinnacle moments on the EP. This track is an invigorating blast of alternative rock which leaves the listener feeling pumped and craving for more.
However the frantic gallop of ‘This Motor Is Me’ and the dark, fuzz-saturated ‘Control Is Not What I Need’ deserve special attention. These two glorious tracks display the talent and musical growth of this duo, showing Vulpynes’ sound has fermented and curdled into something truely thrilling. The tight brisk riffs are executed with such precision and brawn it’s awe-inspiring while the groove presented on drums by Kaz is an otherworldly rampage of terror and delight as she shifts nimbly between raw rumbles, mighty thumps and thunderous bashes. Maeve Molly’s distinctive, raspy vocals anchor the listener within the musical maelstrom. She spits and bellows out the lyrics matching the all consuming wall of sound with her enticing tone.
Exuding a heavy dollop of riot attitude, Vulpynes have created a fiery alternative rock EP in ‘Us Against Them’. With tunes full of catchy melodies and addictive riffs Vulpynes are a force to be reckoned with.
Irish Band VAHN have released their new single ‘Teeth’. This luring number is saturated in dark electronics creating the most tantalizing listening experience. With rhythmic pulses, intense soundscapes of swirling synths and distortion the track is an eerie and frantic tune. ‘Teeth’ is expertly layered and gradually builds, becoming more fuzz filled and frantic as the fizzing electronics and guitars merge into one hypnotic, dazing and psychedelic wall of sound. The haunting whispered vocals coo and lure throughout, allowing the instrumentation draw the listener into the track’s dark abyssal soundscape. With sensual grooves and irresistible melodies ‘Teeth’ ventures between indie, electronic pop and psychedelic with ease. An impressive and satisfying new number from VAHN.
BAD TOUCH / NORFOLK / Shot by Rob Blackham / www.blackhamimages.com
We caught up with Stevie Westwood frontman from classic rock band Bad Touch to talk about the bands fourth album ‘Kiss The Sky’ which was released this year, their writing process and recording in Rockfield Studios
You released your fourth album ‘Kiss The Sky’ this year. It is a powerful, swagger soaked collection of bangers. How do you guys keep your sound fresh four albums in?
We’ve always been and will always be Bad Touch. We play feel-good rock n roll for the soul. Our never ending mission to give you the night you’ll never forget; a break away from the monotony and tyranny of life, and to leave anybody who is awesome enough to come to a gig smiling from ear to ear. That’s our mantra. This album is 110% just that, this is a dancing round your bedroom, annoying your neighbours album; that we hope people will love any bit as much as we do.
Was your music writing process for this album different to the previous albums?
Not much has changed since the early days, we still write and rehearse in the same space we have since day one. We just write about emotions and situations we all feel and have experienced, in a hope that someone else feels the same way and can connect to our music. Our attitude towards writing remains true as well, we’re a melting pot of influences and ideas from every member, not bound by role. Quite often George (drums) will have a vocal line or guitar riff, just as often as I’ll have an idea for a drum beat… it keeps things fresh.
The tracks in the album are full of feel good powerful tunes with shredding guitars, pummeling drums and oodles of soul. Talk us through how you chose the songs for the album?
We took a lot more time, effort, sweat and tears when it came to this album from the get-go. Our attitude to songwriting was a lot more critical. If a song wasn’t cutting-the-mustard, we either changed it until it did, or chucked it in the bin and moved on. No compromises.
Your songs boast some pretty slick riffage. How do you guys come up with these gritty riffs?
When you have two riff-meisters like Rob and Seeks it just comes naturally haha
It’s a swagger drenched album laced in classic rock. I especially like ‘Strut’ it really does fill you with that prancing confidence. Tell us how you wrote and crafted that track?
‘Strut’ was one of the first songs we wrote for ‘Kiss The Sky.’ Seeks (guitar) had that biting riff, and George (drums) had the vocal melody for the chorus, so we took it from there. We always write together and everyone chips in, it’s a real fun way to write.
Do you have a track on the album that you are particularly proud of or enjoyed writing?
Speaking personally, I can hand-on-heart say that I am proud and love every track on ‘Kiss The Sky.’ This album has been the hardest one to write so far, for all the right reasons. We’ve put so much into this as individuals and collectively as a unit, and we’re super proud with the end result. It’s fun, it’s loud, it’s in-your-face, it’s everything that Bad Touch have always been, plus so much more.
You guys got to record the album in Rockfield Studios in Monmouth, It’s where Oasis created their masterpieces, where Bohemian Rhapsody came to life and where Coldplay’s journey into the musical stratosphere took off. A place with such history can do one of two things: fill you with awe and make you strive to bring out the best in your tunes or fill you with shattering expectations and pressure. Did you get an instant shot of inspiration or fear within the studio’s walls?
It was completely jaw-dropping-ly awe-inspiring. We are so privileged as a group of friends to have recorded in a place with such musical gravitas. It really did kick us up a notch as musicians, and just felt so right. Plus I got to sit at Freddie’s piano, the one he wrote ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ on, it doesn’t get much cooler than that.
Is it difficult to get the raw energy you guys bring to your live shows into the recording?
For that we owe a special mention to our producer, (who later became our friend), Nick “Brino” Brine… He deserves a serious pat on the back. Through many tireless hours, he’s managed to capture and refine that raw energy that we’ve always had, but always struggled to get down on recordings up until “Kiss The Sky,” so to him we owe tremendous thanks.
You have announced your March/April 2021 UK tour.The 14-date tour includes Norwich, Manchester, London, Cardiff and Glasgow. What have you got planned for the shows?
With the year that 2020 has been, we owe it to our fans and to ourselves to make this the most explosive and fun tour yet, and we plan to do just that. We can’t wait to reconnect with the Bad Touch Family and hopefully make some new friends along the way. (badtouchrocks.co.uk for full tour details)
You guys are known for your energetic and raw live shows. Are you missing the live show energy at the moment?
What a question! It’s like we’ve lost the best part of ourselves, to say we are missing it is a huge understatement. We cannot wait to be back on stage doing what we were born to do, but we won’t until it is safe to do so, for the sake of everyone. Stay safe everybody.
You’ve been doing Facebook videos called “The Isolation Sessions” to stay connected with your fans while everyone is at home.Have you felt pressure to make each one better than the last?
I like to think that some of the beauty of The Isolation Sessions was that it was just me and my guitar playing into my mobile phone. That’s it. It wasn’t about the production or the effects, it’s just me having a go at some songs that have influenced me as a singer. I did one a day for around fifty days, they’re on hiatus at the minute, but who knows, I may dust off the guitar soon!
Have you found time to write and relax during the lull in touring?
We’re still promoting ‘Kiss The Sky’ at the moment, but we’re always writing and looking to the future.
Do you have any advice for someone who wants to start a band?
Just do it, and don’t give up. If you’ve got a band you love, playing music you love, you can make it work, and everything else will fall in place around it. Trust me.
What have Bad Touch got planned for the rest of the year?
Sadly this year seems to be all but written off, nobody knows what’s around the corner at the minute, but know that we’ll be here to rock your socks off when we come out the other side. Stay safe you beautiful people.
Mechner unveils the final part of ‘Club Idem’ with single ‘Ghosts in the Mirror’. With the release of “Ghosts in the Mirror” and its accompanying music video, the continuing narrative which has been seen across Mechner’s previous 4 releases in 2020, finally comes to a close.
‘Ghosts in the Mirror’ is an emotive tune which drifts between 90’s alternative rock and electronic indie as Mechner spreads a catchy powerful melody over a simmering backdrop. Exuding punchy drums and warm guitar jangles teamed with wisps of electronics this rock ballad powerhouse is an impressive final addition to what has been a thrilling journey with Mechner. He never fails to deliver emotion and earnest tunes that pack one hell of a punch and ‘Ghost in the Mirror’ doesn’t disappoint. With a cinematic chorus, brooding verses and flashing dark electronics it’s a compelling, chilling new track and a satisfying listening experience.
About the track Mechner says “Ghosts is about being black out intoxicated on a night out, the feeling of not knowing where you are, but remembering only flashing images and sounds, somewhere in the recesses of your mind you are aware of what’s going on, but you have almost no control over your body, or brain. The idea of being trapped in oneself, it’s actually quite terrifying the idea of what can happen when you are not in control”
The music video is presented in Black and White, and shows one of the main characters going through grief over the loss of his partner to the mysterious Club Idem, though the ending is one you won’t forget in a hurry. Watch the video for ‘Ghosts in the Mirror’ below
Bright Falls has released his new single ‘The Widows Homes’. Bright Falls is the project of Thurles, Co. Tipperary, singer-songwriter Eddie McCormack, who blends Americana with alternative rock, while taking a narrative approach to songwriting. Bright Falls debut E.P ‘Logging’ which was produced by Martin Quinn (Aine Cahill, The Strypes), was released in July 2019 . After the release of ‘Logging’, Bright Falls, with a full band, was asked to open Féile ’19, in Semple Stadium alongside acts such as Sinead O’Connor and The Stunning. Bright Falls have also supported artists The Frank & Walters, Ryan Sheridan and David Keenan.
Oozing Americana tones and icy synth progressions, ‘The Widows Homes’ is a lush and passionate song from Bright Falls. Bittersweet melodies drift over a warm alternative backdrop accompanied by a chiming guitar which weaves through 80’s-esque shimmering synths.The production is clean and precise resulting in a solid heartfelt tune which displays Bright Falls beautiful earnest songwriting. With a soothing vocal delivery, McCormack effortlessly coos over the simmering backdrop and lush arrangements while a chugging beat maintains the track’s relentless drive.The song recounts the aftermath of a love lost, building up to the chorus which sees the protagonist long for reconciliation of the relationship which they know will never return. As the track builds the synths flourish and blend into the songs emotive Americana tones to create a touching and wholly soothing listening experience. Boasting tight animated instrumentation ‘The Widows Homes’ is an impressive and extremely compelling track from Bright Falls.
Cavan garage rock band, The Zen Arcade, have released their debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’.To Celebrate they have released a brand-new video to go along with the track.The band formed in Late 2019 and is comprised of 3 ex-members of The Strypes whose stellar rise saw them tour 3 critically acclaimed albums all over from Glastonbury to Fuji Rocks and feted by all from Jools Holland to the Arctic Monkeys before calling it quits.
Showcasing brisk melodic hooks and sharp instrumentation The Zen Arcade have created a unique, exciting 90’s alternative rock sound with ‘Don’t Say A Word’; a dynamic, energetic track ready for blasting from your speakers. This neck snapping track speed balls in on frenzied guitars, pounding drums and a rampant bassline as the band fill out the song beautifully creating a chaotic swelling sound. It’s an instant shot of adrenaline, fizzing guitars ricochet off a brawny rhythm while psychedelic murmurs simmer in the background while a pop steeped melody sweetens the song’s aesthetic.
There are wonderful musical moments hidden within ‘Don’t Say A Word’ to delight the listener with, from melody changes to distortion and a few other gems such as whining synths. Each subsequent listen reveals more and more and subtly displays The Zen Arcade’s musical prowess and deft use of instrumentation. Ready for manic moshing this infectious, frantic track is a sublime debut and exciting glimpse of what The Zen Arcade has to offer.
Speaking about the video shoot Pete O’ Hanlon says: “The video was shot in a shed, stars the band, abuses a projector and was directed by a tripod. It showcases the latest in digital regression and artfully combines the bare minimum with low light, undoubtedly inspiring the inevitable low-resolution revolution.”
The band express how “Don’t Say A Word is a mantra for the muted millions. Time now for the monosyllabic among us to rise up and remain silent!”
Chay Snowdon are an Indie Rock four piece based in Bristol/Plymouth. ‘Tough Guys Die First’ is the second single from Chay Snowdon’s debut EP ‘Are You Sitting Comfortably? (Then We Will Begin)’. The first single released from the EP ‘What the Kids Want’, has already gained playlisting from Planet Rock Radio, multiple plays from Serious XM in America and brilliant backing from BBC Introducing in the South West. It also received repeated plays on Steve Lamacq’s BBC 6 Music drive time show as well as his recommends show. Chay Snowdon have been selling out their own headline shows time and time again, as well as playing some amazing festivals including Liverpool Sound City, 2000 Trees, , Y-Not Festival, Boardmasters, Dot To Dot Festival, Lechlade Festival, Oceanfest, Chagstock and Looe Music Festival.
‘Tough Guys Die First’ is another blazing rock anthem from Chay Snowdon. With scorching guitars, pummeling drums and a raw bassline the track exudes swagger and kinetic energy. These guys have a knack for creating powerful tunes sure to ignite a live audience and ‘Tough Guys Die First’ is no exception. The band provide an adrenaline-inducing rock n roll number laced in lean mean grooves, dynamic vocals and soaring guitar refrains. With a shredding solo and epic crescendo it is arena-ready rock rearing to go.
Stream ‘Tough Guys Die First’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
