Category Archives: New Music

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie - Surfer, Indie Pop, New Music, Surf Rock

Johnny Kills ‘Who’s Counting?’

Following on from last summer’s series of acclaimed surf-rock  singles Johnny Kills emerge for the first time in 2018 with new tune  ‘Who’s Counting?’ Out via Killing Moon (Annabel Allum, Beach Riot). The band have earned champions including  BBC Introducing, The  Line of Best Fit, DORK, Indie Shuffle and The Metroplus dozens  more tastemaker radio stations and blogs with their flair for  delivering scuzzy pop off-cuts. The trio are made up of Tim,  biological  brother Lewis Lloyd-Kinnings and spiritual  brother  Cameron Gipp and aiding them in bringing their tracks to an  acceptable auditory standard is Leeds based producer and Forever  Cult bassist Alex Greaves (TRASH,  PLAZA,  Seeing Hands) on  production and  mixing duties,  with  Pete Maher (Pixies,  Lana  Del  Rey,  Scisso Sisters) on mastering.

‘Who’s  Counting?’ is a glittering glam dazzling indie pop anthem laced with flashing sonic slaps over a sticky beat and fuzzed guitar jingles. Johnny Kills blast out an infectious danceable number that surges with youthful adrenaline doused in an 80’s -esque sparkle of glitter and glam all while packing in a healthy dose of punch. Glorious whines on guitar add a lamenting sharp sting to this vivid stomping track while wonky vocal hooks give a unique sing along friendly quality. It’s scuzzy in all the right places with dark sonic flecks swirling murky tones into the verses before the dynamic pop sprinkled chorus lifts the track into a feathery light bouncy anthem. This track is well crafted as each element brings a new rich texture and vibrancy – the guitars bring us the indie, moody, lamenting vibes with a shrilling spikiness while the buoyant beat, luscious melody and sonic swirls add a tasty blend of sugar sweet pop into the mix, and those vocals, just sublime and refreshing. It’s an adrenaline rush and such a thrill to listen to.

“It’s  about  meeting  a  great  new  person  and  ridiculously  overthinking  every  aspect  that  this  entails,  internally  focusing  on  this  quasi-freak-out  rather  than  enjoying  and  appreciating  the  new  relationship  for  what  it  is”  claims  vocalist  and  songwriter  Tim Lloyd-Kinnings,  “Thinking  ‘oh  bloody  hell,  what’s  happening  here?  –this can’t  be  good’  rather  than  ‘oh,  isn’t  this  great?”

Stream ‘Who’s  Counting?’ below

 


Indie, New Music

Gringoh ‘Rules And Relations’

Gringoh are a new band from Hounslow West London (but born and bred in Ireland) making Urban London music influenced by the beats of Latin America and sounds from all over the world. The band have now released their debut single ‘Rules And Relations’. Now, this song I love! It’s fresh and crisp with exotic smouldering guitar that starts like it’s from a Zorro movie- weaving its way through Latin American beats coaxing and luring you to shuffle your way to the dancefloor. The vocals are effortless as they glide upon the danceable delectable melody – teasing and enchanting with a glorious sweltering sense of mystery and jubilation all at once. The backing vocals evoke images of sombrero’s with a Mariachi- esque feel. This young band blend genres seamlessly to create a wholly immersing colourful and rich listening experience.

Stream ‘Rules And Relations’ below

 

 


Funk, Indie, New Music

 RootNotes ‘Move To This’

 

RootNotes are a new funk band from Walsall, West Midlands consisting of members Jordan Harris (guitar/vocals) , Kieran Osbourne (drums/vocals), James Potts (saxophone), Matty Cross (guitar) and Daniel Evans (bass). The band are set to release their debut single ‘Move To This’ on all major platforms on July 27th with a video dropping on YouTube the same day. ‘Move To This’ was recorded at Magic Garden Studios by Gavin Monaghan, who has worked with the likes of Robert Plant, Kings of Leon, The Blinders, The Twang and many more.

‘Move To This’ is a swanky blast of confidence boosting funk. Filled with vibrant colourful sounds such as warm saxophone, trumpet blasts and rich rhythms which swirl around a delicious swagger soaked melody – this little gem will have you bopping wiggling and strutting your stuff in no time. Instantly likeable and groovy it glides in, exuding a sleek well polished panache with a vivid air tight instrumental backdrop. This piece of chilled effortlessly cool bubbling bliss is worth blasting through your speakers as its infectious vibe takes over your body.

You can follow RootNotes on their social media below

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RootNotesBand/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rootnotesband/

 


Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Synth-pop

The RPMs ‘Gotta Let Go’

The RPMs are set to release their new single ‘Gotta Let Go’ via Xtra Mile Recordings on Sept 28 via all digital formats.New single ‘ Gotta Let Go ‘ raises the bar significantly for this young Brighton band. Following the success of their previous singles, ‘Your Ghost’ and ‘Let Things Happen’ new single, ‘Gotta Let Go’ is cast firmly in the mold of an indie pop dancefloor banger. The RPMs emerged from the Brighton scene that has also birthed contemporaries Black Honey and Fickle Friends. The band was formed in Dorset by childhood friends Jack Valero (lead vocals, guitar), Callum James, (drums and backing vocals). Following a move to Brighton they were joined by Miguel Cosme on bass and gained early momentum in 2016 for their debut EP, ‘Digital Disobedience , followed by their second EP in 2017, ‘Agents of Change ‘ released via Xtra Mile Recordings. Inspired by the support The RPMs expanded to a five piece, adding in Chris Bowden on keyboards and Ollie Summer on lead guitar to carve out a more ambitious sonic direction. Aided by in demand producer Gethin Pearson (Mallory Knox/Charli XCX) ‘Gotta Let Go’ flows into their steadily evolving plot together with other significant milestones: their SXSW debut ; being chosen by Huw Stephens as one of his Alternative Tips for 2018 ; their first Radio X-Posure session and inclusion on R1’s Best Of BBC Introducing Playlist.

 ‘Gotta Let Go’ will coax you to the dancefloor with its instant dizzying flash of keys swirling around zesty guitar jangles and slapping beat. This hyped up anthem speed balls into the frantic catchy chorus ready for those mass live sing alongs while woozy sonic soundscapes rush by with an adrenaline inducing surge of dynamism. It’s one to jump frantically to while the infectious chorus seeps into you mind hooking itself firmly ready to pop up when you least expect it- keeping you humming it all day.It’s explosive, charming and charismatic- perfect for those limb flailing “dance like you’ve never danced before” nights out.

Speaking of the track, singer Jack Valero said, “It’s actually a classic break up song, but not in the traditional sense being sad and tragic, it’s about the more explosive and potentially positive side to being freed from someone who’s treated you badly and feeling empowered from making that hard decision. But can also encapsulate lots of difficult situations you might have to shrug off in life.”

You can catch The RMP’s live at :

JULY 20 – Sheffield – Tramlines Festival

JULY 21 – Oxfordshire – Truck Festival This Feeling w. Pirate Studios Stage

JULY 22 – Stockport – Blackthorn Fest

AUGUST 3rd – Kent, Edenbridge – LeeFest Neverworld

AUGUST 4 – Kent Edenbridge – LeeFest BBC Intro Kent Stage (Abbie McCarthy)

AUGUST 10 – Peterborough – Green Meadows Festival

AUGUST 12 – Cornwall – Boardmasters

AUGUST 26 – Warwickshire – Camper Calling

Stream  ‘Gotta Let Go’ below


Blues Rock, Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, indie rock, New Music, Rock and Roll

Indie Buddie Introducing : LEONTAS

London based rock duo LEONTAS have released their new single ‘Rhythm  + Blues’ alongside co-single ‘Here Today’. The band revolves around singer and guitarist Alex Munteanu and drummer Scott Collier who met at an audition for a separate band in Camden. After the two bonded, realising their musical styles fitted perfectly together LEONTAS was born in Camden’s Creation Studios.

‘Rhythm + Blues’ is your foot stomping bluesy rock and roll banger. Drenched in strutting swagger this track slides in, cool and sassy with a raw punchy sound. Edgy guitar riffs shred through mighty drums and a sing along ready chorus. Filled with a prance inducing confidence and a smooth melody this charming number strides in on an infectious groove and sublime steamy guitar licks, oozing a bold prancing swankiness that is compelling.

‘Here Today’ takes a more chilled approach with a thumping beat setting the sturdy clap along camp fire back drop for the sprightly acoustic guitar strides and raspy vocals. Cruising on a feel good summer vibe this track glides along flooding with warmth and infectiousness. Its shaky rhythm and subtle groove infested approach will warm the cockles of your heart filling you with youthful nostalgia and chill mellow vibes. This track oozes emotion and passion in a laid back easy going manner that makes it instantly like-able and fun.

This duo have a tight sound that is brimming with swagger -their laid back approach adds a sublime relaxed vibe to the tracks while their refined musicianship and dash of sass makes for a captivating and enthralling listen.

Stream ‘Rhythm + Blues’ and ‘Here Today’ below


Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music

Silver Citizen ‘Now We Groove’

Three-piece rock band Silver Citizen have recently released their new single ‘Now We Groove’. Hailing from Brisbane, Australia,  Silver Citizen returned in 2016 as a reincarnation of their previous musical undertaking. During this hiatus the band have revamped themselves by introducing refined stylistic approaches, such as heavy guitar riffs layered underneath the discerning lyrics of lead singer Jimmy Wenham. Drawing on the influences of Audioslave and the Foo Fighters, Now We Groove is saturated with a variety of memorable riffs, explosive drums and powerful choruses.

This mosh ready banger pelts in with meaty heavy riffs on top of punchy drum whacks and dynamic vocals. The brawny bass lines weave between the drum rumbles with an elastic groove while the shredding guitars pierce and stride throughout. It’s a mighty unfaltering display of rap rock that thunders in –  fierce and savage ready to pummel your skull with its adrenaline shot of vigour and might. Catchy and melodic with enough heaviness to have a mosh pit in a brawling frenzy ‘Now We Groove’ is pretty slick and extremely engaging.

Stream ‘Now We Groove’ below

 

 


Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Mini Mansions

Los Angeles trio Mini Mansions mark their highly anticipated return with their new single ‘Works Every Time’, the title track from their upcoming EP ‘Works Every Time’ set for release on September 28th. The EP follows on from the trio’s  (singer/guitarist Michael Shuman (bassist of Queens of The Stone Age), bassist Zach Dawes and singer/keyboardist Tyler Parkford) critically acclaimed 2015 album ‘The Great Pretenders’, which saw the band tour with the likes of Tame Impala, Arctic Monkeys and Royal Blood and of course the B-sides release ‘Flashbacks’ which we previously reviewed on Indie Buddie.

‘Works Every Time’ is an infectious foot tapping number that swoons around a delicious melancholic melody and wistfully sweet vocals. Parkford takes on the vocals for this tune – his warm lower range resonating through the brooding verses before Shuman joins in for the falsetto chorus. The track laments through hazy key flickers and dreamy backdrops while the steady beat and elastic bass keeps the track bouncing along doused in nectarous gloopy bliss. Naturally, you can’t have a Mini Mansions song without some tasty guitar lines and this track packs in oodles of that in the most sophisticated classy way that only these guys can do. The guitar injections pine and weep with a sting that adds a refreshing spice and dash of zest to the cruising lusciously melancholic track. These guys are immensely talented. Each track they produce is precise and immaculate with refined classy elements on top of fine richly layered musicianship. They are musical magi with the perfect blend of melodies and tones to have us eating out of the palm of their hands longing and craving for every melodic concoction they deliver.

Stream ‘Works Every Time’ below


EP Review, Indie, New Music

Lewis Ross ‘Colder Days’ EP

Lewis Ross is an emerging indie folk artist from Edinburgh who has released his debut EP ‘Colder Days’. Formed from the humble environment of his bedroom in Edinburgh, Ross has been compiling this EP for the previous two years. In regard to his song writing Lewis pays particular attention to detail, this ultimately secured him a position on the indie folx spotify playlist “the best of indie folk 2018”. Reminiscing on pivotal points in his life, Ross addresses some of the universal thoughts and feelings surrounding young love and regret in the EP. ‘Colder Days’ was recorded and produced by Garry Boyle, who is a well-established producer within the Scottish music scene. Lewis has also appeared on radio shows within Scotland after recently releasing his debut single ‘Come On Home’ which has been met with critical acclaim.

‘Colder Days’ is a delicate warm and glowing collection of laid back passionate tracks. The sweet ‘Intro’ sets the tranquil tone of the EP with piano twinkles and lush vocals. ‘Now That You’re Gone’ follows with warm guitar flickering between Ross’ velvety vocals. Each track pulls at the heart strings with its beautiful tender arrangement and graceful string injections. Ross provides us with the perfect chill time playlist – his tracks are constructed with subtle intricate parts providing the perfect backdrop for Ross’ emotional vocals. ’Come on Home’ and ‘Signs of Life’ display rich sublime melodies and marvellous ethereal backing vocals that will have you tearfully swaying with a glass of wine watching a glorious sunset until ‘Hope to See you in the Morning’ lulls you into that final soothing state of serenity. When listening to this moving EP the world stops and all that exists is you, stillness and these heavenly touching tunes.

Stream ‘Colder Days’ below

 

 


EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

The Half Light ‘Night On My Mind’ EP

The Half Light are a four piece indie band from London who have returned to the scene in 2018 with new material and a new line up. The band have released their new EP ‘Night On My Mind’, which is being released in full alongside the single ‘Seven Summers’. This release follows the earlier releases of the lead track ‘8th May’ (March 2018) and title track ‘Night On My Mind’ (April 2018). To mark the launch of the EP and ‘Seven Summers’, the band will be playing Clarence Park Festival, Wakefield, on 28th July. The Half Light’s music has featured on radio stations across the country, including BBC 6 Music, BBC London and Amazing Radio and the band were nominated for Best UK Act at the 2015 Pure M Awards. Since forming in 2011, the band have self-released ‘Clapham EP’ (2012) and ‘Moscow’ (2015), which is now followed by ‘Night On My Mind’ EP. Following these earlier releases, vocalist James and guitarist Guy were joined by a refreshed rhythm section, Mike and Martin, to complete the line up and the band entered the studio in London in late 2017.

‘Night On My Mind’ is a delightful triad of glorious indie, swirling between luscious pop melodies and sparkling chimes on keys. Both the title track ‘Night On My Mind’ and ‘8th May’ have been previously featured on Indie Buddie, The former wisping us away with ethereal guitars soaring over breezy soundscapes, punchy drums and a delicious bitter sweet melody while ‘8th May’ shimmied its way firmly into our minds and hearts with its rich rhythm and infectious chorus soaring over glorious guitar work. It was no surprise that ‘Seven Summers’ would be the sweet icing on the cake. Laced in glorious melodies coated with sparkling guitars, sublime bass rumbles and gleaming keys. This follows the vibrantly heavenly vibes of its predecessors perfectly and displays the bands meticulous well crafted musicianship. The track builds to a magnificent crescendo as the guitars slash an illuminating zesty flash of light through the glorious soundscape. These guys have an ability to write heart warming wholesome tracks that hop, bop and tantalize the listeners ears until they are shivering in the corner craving to hear more.

Stream ‘Night On My Mind’ below

 


Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jack Woodward ‘Rain’

Cheshire 24 year old solo artist Jack Woodward has released his new single ‘Rain’. The track was recorded in St Helens, North West England, with a production team called ‘Sugar House’ and is the 10th song that they have worked on together. Woodward has played a lot of new venues and festivals both solo and with his backing band, including performing on the X Factor Live Tour in Brighton to 4500 people, playing the BBC Introducing Stage at Blackburn’s festival of making, playing a sold out gig at Sound in Liverpool and The Cavern Club. His last EP ‘Higher’ was met with incredible support, with tracks broadcast multiple times by BBC Introducing Lancashire, Amazing Radio, features from BBC 6 Music’s ‘Fresh Faves’ and interviews with BBC Introducing Lancashire and The ‘Warrington Guardian’

’Rain’ is a sparkling swirling concoction filled with dark stormy tones over sublime musicianship. Flashing electronics dazzle and coil above jangly guitar and spaghetti western hues. The vibrant electronics and buoyant beat keep the track bouncing along at a steady peppy pace as the mysterious haunting guitars whine and creep in filling the track with tones of uncertainty and danger. The catchy chorus and velvety vocals add an infectious gripping texture to the track while the sweet melody soothes and laments over the instrumental turmoil. It’s a compact polished number that soars to ethereal heights with sublime instrumentation and cinematic vibes that will have you on the edge of your seat.

When asked about the track Woodward said:  “‘Rain’ is about a man who has made a terrible mistake and committed a crime. He’s on the run from the world and searching for escape and solace anywhere he can find it; in his lover.”

Stream ‘Rain’ below