Category Archives: New Music

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

Galapagos ‘Even This Glow’ EP

Galapagos are a four piece indie band from Ottawa. With the release of the debut Potential Space EP in June 2017,  Galapagos continue to create a presence in the Ottawa musical landscape. Their debut charted highly on Ottawa’s CKCU and CHUO stations and topped the CHUO charts in the fall. Ottawa Showbox, APT 613 and PhotogMusic all placed Potential Space on their lists of top local releases in 2017. The band have now released their second EP ‘Even This Glow’ to a sold out show at Pressed.

‘Even This Glow’ is a laid back thoroughly satisfying EP drenched in mellowed out sweet nostalgia. With a retro indie rock feel opening track ‘Wall’ struts in with thrilling sharp guitars laced upon an infectious bright melody and peppy animated drums. These guys deliver a quality sound, richly packed with sublime luscious layers that bring sun kissed vibes to their pure heartfelt tunes. ‘Lungs’ and ‘Jersey’ add a grittier texture into the mix with distorted guitar crashing for the pounding chorus and zealous illumination for the latter track. These tracks evoke a 90’s vibe as sweet melodies and velvety vocals soothe a wistful longing tone. The songs feature some golden guitar moments so mouth-watering and sweet they are like honey to the ears leaving you craving more. ‘Coffee’ takes a darker tone with acoustic accompaniment twinkling between sombre vocals. It showcases a diverse melancholic side to their easy going sound. It’s a soothing track one which takes its time caressing your soul. Gentle and beautiful on the ears it’s truly immaculate and tender. Though their sound is mellow and laid back it is by no means simple, intricate guitar lines weave between passionate vocals creating music that really makes you feel every note, every beat and guitar quiver. ‘Decide’ closes the EP with beaming sweet marsh-mellowness. It’s melodic, utterly emotive and richly nostalgic. Zesty vibrant guitar lines dazzle through a charming delicate melody while a running bass line wanders adding a lavish texture and meaty depth to this superb track.

‘Even This Glow’ is an EP to relax and watch the sun set to. Each track is refined and precisely layered to create a beautifully nostalgic experience that is heart-warming and wholly satisfying.

Stream ‘Even This Glow’ below

 


Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, electro - rock, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie Electro, New Music

Twist Helix ‘Ouseburn’

Alt-Pop three piece Twist Helix have a lot to owe the valley of Ouseburn, and they intend to repay the area where they honed their craft with their appropriately named forthcoming euphoric track ‘Ouseburn’ which was released on the 9th February, at a sold out single launch gig at “The high place above the river” – the Cumberland Arms venue. With adopted Geordie and lead vocalist, Bea Garcia, reigning from Spain, radio play spanning more than 7 countries and having recently signed for Madrid based record company Paul Back Music, the band is an internationally acclaimed affair. Taking influences from the likes of White Lies, Depeche Mode and M83, the three piece present a synth-pop sound that demands you have a good time. With their 2017 shows spanning across Europe, from Glasgow, to Cumbria’s Solfest festival, and having the opportunity to be introduced by Radio3’s Julio Ruiz as finalists at the Madrid Bdcoder Festival, the three piece have achieved some great success since forming.

‘Ouseburn’ is a dynamic track that explodes with a bedazzlement of flashing electronics swirling between a snappy kinetic beat and powerful vocals. This track is pumped with adrenaline and vigorous energy as whirling soundscapes fill the song with a breezy spacey atmosphere while the catchy melody and power chorus lift the track to anthemic heights. It’s mighty frenzy inducing alternative power pop.

Named as one of the North Easts must see bands for 2018 by NE Volume, Spotlight Music and Spark FM Twist Helix have a list of upcoming live dates to look out for -see below

London – 20th Feb – The Dublin Castle

Sheffield – 21st Feb – The Washington

Bristol – 22nd Feb – The Old England

Worcester – 23rd Feb – Mars Bar

Manchester – 24th Feb – The Castle Hotel

Barnsley – 28th Feb – One Over The Eight

Sunderland – 03rd Feb – The Independent

Darlington – 3rd March – Noisy Daughters Event

Stockton – 31st March – Stockton Calling Festival

Stream ‘Ouseburn’ below

 


Indie Folk, New Music

George Simpson ‘Finding Myself’

Folk singer-songwriter George Simpson has announced the release of his highly anticipated new single ‘Finding Myself’. The single comes after a short break from the music scene after releasing his first 2 successful albums, which received support from BBC Radio 2’s Jeremy Vine, Graham Norton and Clair Bolding. Surprisingly, music came late for Simpson who picked up a guitar at the age of 17 and didn’t begin performing as a solo artist until the age of 27 after performing as part of a couple of different bands in the meantime. After experimenting with different genres, he soon settled on a country folk style after being inspired stylistically by Sky’s ‘Nashville’ series. The male-female duets heard in the series specifically sparked an interest for Simpson, which lead to his newest release ‘Finding Myself’. Influenced by the likes of James Bay and Jason Mraz, ‘Finding Myself’ is a story of Simpson’s first ever relationship with specific lines throughout the track reminding him of particular moments. The song reflects on the point in a relationship when you begin to feel that things are no longer working and its time to decide exactly what you want and which direction to take. Recorded as part of a collaborative process, George described the writing and recording as a fairly straightforward process in which all parties involved creatively contributed to the single.

‘Finding Myself’ is a beautifully melodic track filled with warm guitar beaming through a foot tapping beat, swayable melody and glorious harmonies. It’s sweetly delicate yet oozing passion and heart warming emotion. The melody is supple and deliciously sing along sweet. With melancholic tones filling the track with tenderness it’s a charming little ditty. Though the sombre tones and elegant piano twinkles add a sweet sorrow to this track the luscious vocals and peppy guitar strums supply a warm almost cheery luminosity and positivity. It’s a sweet little pick me up that adds a nice bit of sunshine into your day.

The accompanying video reflects the simplicity and the meaning of the song. The location, pointed out by featuring female vocalist Kezia, used to be a buzzing business and is now left a shadow of what it used to be, with the original wildlife dying around it. ‘Finding Myself’ is set to be released on 23rd February and will be available to stream and download via all major media providers. The release will be supported by a number of live shows, to stay up to date follow George Simpson on social media here https://www.facebook.com/georgesimpsonmusic/

Stream ‘Finding Myself’ below

https://soundcloud.com/georgesimpsonmusic/finding-myself-feat-kezia-gill

 


Alt Rock, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Public Access T.V. At The Academy Dublin With Support From MUNKY

Public Access T.V. kick started their tour with their debut Dublin show in the Academy. “It’s a ballsy move” I was told when I asked an individual before the show what they thought of Public Access T.V. playing their first gig in Dublin. Yes, perhaps a “ballsy move” but isn’t that what we have come to learn about this four piece? They make “ballsy moves”, they do what they want and I suppose you don’t receive a frenzy of press hype, label bidding wars, a critically-acclaimed debut album and sold-out tours without a “ballsy” attitude. I, for one have waited 4 years to see these guys. My expectations were quite high and boy! – they did not disappoint.

Our home-grown Dublin four piece MUNKY were a more-than-adequate warm-up to Tuesday nights main act. The talented bunch who can even play the tune to their tracks on empty beer bottles were in no way fatigued from their back to back weekend shows. Not letting a few stolen pedals get them down they belted straight into their organic disco grunge with all the fire and attitude this band do so well. From the get go the band were keen to get the crowd engaged. Frontman Zachary Stephenson steps off the stage and beckons the shy audience closer while Niall Donnelly bellows “I can see you, come the f*ck up”. It’s a little different performing as a support act but they take it in their stride packing oodles of energy into their set. These guys move around and create an engaging show and are a must see.

Public Access T.V. had no set list, the plan was to wing it and play what they felt like. With a chilled effortless cool stance on stage the four-piece let the tunes do all the talking. Their swagger soaked ‘Evil Disco’ kicks off their set, instantly oozing sunny glowing warmth into the room. Zippy riffs over punchy drums and elastic bass lines give the perfect atmosphere for carefree dancing and wiggling. With their precision sharp instrumentation and infectious choruses, tracks from their first album ‘Never Enough’ go down well as dancer’s groove and bounce to their zealous hooks and fetching delicious melodies. Frontman John Eatherly nonchalantly sways back and forward in a sort of casual almost wiggle as he charms his way through the set, he beckons the crowd closer “Maybe you guys can come a bit closer don’t be shy”. The quartet once again do another “ballsy move”, they play a decent amount of new unheard tracks giving the audience a sneaky preview of what’s to come on the ‘Street Safari’ album. The lights turn blue as they begin their first new track the oh so disco funky flavoured ‘Wait It Out’. With its sublime rumble bass line and melty melody this track is glitter ball disco ready. A brief band meeting on stage decided the next track while bassist Max Peebles tells us about his joy at seeing the Phil Lynott statue “I’m glad they brought it back out of storage or wherever it was… thank you”.

Their tracks take a new dimension live, a little edgier the live scenario lets them take their tunes to a rougher more gritty outfit.’Lost In The Game’ live really allows you to appreciate the sublime jangle guitar lines in all their glory and that solo is just incredible. The new tracks continue with ‘Shell No. 2’ which reintroduces their relaxed slinky sound with its infectious chorus and lush backing vocal injection. While ‘Meltdown’ is the perfect theme tune to freedom with its windows down cruising in the sunshine guitar lines and rumbling drums. This track is the soundtrack for youthful summer bliss. The boys kept our favourite track until last leaving us in suspense as to whether or not it would be played. ‘Patti Peru’ from its guitar whining intro announces itself with such magnificence. Eatherly exasperates over screechy guitars and punchy drums. Xan Aird shakes up the solo adding extra little flickers and whines into a solo I know so well I probably could sing along to, making it refreshing and almost new. With their set finished as the audience call for “one more tune” the band thank the crowd, smile, wave and take their leave.

Public Access T.V. do their thing, its good honest kick ass rock and roll with some funk and disco flavours mixed in. No messing about, no pomp and ceremony just good solid tunes. Their charming laid back stage presence is refreshing and easy to enjoy and their suave, glitter-ball rock and roll is one to be admired.

 

 


New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Kev Minney ‘Chances’

Kev Minney is a Brighton based acoustic guitar player, singer and songwriter. Using open tunings and catchy melodic vocal lines he creates a dexterous and unique sound. He has now released a live video for his single ‘Chances’ which is taken from his debut album ‘Stories of the Sky’. ‘Chances’ is a sweet delicate track with twinkling piano accompaniment flooding heart-warming emotion and tenderness into the song. The cello glides through adding an overwhelming warmth and fireside glow. Lush backing vocals embrace the main vocals with a swoony sweet delicacy. The live video removes the piano and replaces it with soft acoustic guitar accompaniment however the backing vocals are just as crisp and immaculate perhaps even more so. It’s a little more stripped back but still remains beautiful and gripping.

Watch the live video for ‘Chances’ below


Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From 0141

0141 have released their new single ‘Stay True’. Comprised of members John Neil-Rce, Nicky Ferguson, Ross Watters and Mark Mcghee 0141 are a four-piece rock band from Glasgow, formed in 2017 who have played in some of Glasgow’s most notable venues including King Tuts for BBC Introducing. Their new single ‘Stay True’ which was produced by Rod Jones of Idlewild barges in whisked in a whirl of adrenaline. With crashing guitars and punchy drums belting at turbo fire speeds this track feels like an instant shot of hyper active alternative rock that relentlessly blasts through in a blood rushing frenzy. The melody however, is sweet and creamy as smooth vocals coo over shouting backing vocals and riotous instrumentation. It’s vibrant with rumbling elastic bass lines and shredding guitars which add a whack of grit into the luscious peppy mix.

Stream ‘Stay True’ below

https://soundcloud.com/justhope_music/stay-true

 


Electronic, New Music

SLF&Co ‘Red’ Video

SLF&Co have released their new video for ‘Red’ (Lord Fluffy & SLF Remix) [feat. Vicky Harrison] from the ‘No Beats In Algebra’ album just in time for Valentines day with the message “It’s all about the LOVE LOVE LOVE …so when it wears off fill it with a little RED”.’Red’, with its sticky thick  gloomy beat smothered in swirling plush soul keyboards and psychedelic soundscapes is a gloopy concoction that starts off dark and eerie and builds into a full out trip-hop acid bath. Its seductively sleek composure is reinforced by the lingering echo vocals which create a spine-chilling dreamy entrapment in the song. It’s trippy and rave ready. The video is a collage of hallucinogenic inducing images that flicker and move with each beat, pulse and groove. The images and colours are fascinating creating the perfect canvas to zone out to. As the track becomes heavier the video becomes more trippy and dazzling.

When asked about the video for ‘Red’ video creator, Jacob Tomlinson said “My aim was to bring out the combination of heavy atmosphere and nervous energy which makes this song so special.I assigned different shapes to the skittish drums and drew them frame by frame to the track. I then drew a series of stamp like posters to showcase the lyrics that hide deeper in the mix, setting everything on a blown out time-lapse of a busy junction I took last year.My hope is that people can watch the video in full screen and zone out, getting lost in the haziness of the synths and dreamlike vocals from Vicky Harrison. Then when they’re not expecting it, they get hit by the drums and everything gets a bit weird and cut up.”

Watch the video for ‘Red’ below


Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

MUNKY ‘7am’ Single Launch In Whelan’s Dublin With Support From Accidents In The Workplace

Last Friday night we headed to Whelan’s Dublin to check out Dublin disco grunge band MUNKY’s ‘7am’ sold out single launch. The band promised the event would be “like a birthday party of sorts but instead of cake and a bouncy castle it’s slices of pure fat, filthy funk and bouncy beats”. Though I would have loved a slice of cake what they had in store was much better.

Accidents In The Workplace kicked off the night with some funky tunes and peppy dancing. Lauren Murphy’s powerful vocals knock you for six from the first note of ‘All I Want‘. Her vocal command is masterful as she wiggles and dances without even a vocal quiver or shake. It’s on point, powerful and brimming with soul. Aaron Cooney and Sean Kenny stand firm, saxophone and trumpet raised as triumphant brass blasts fill out their infectious sound with warmth, depth and might. The grooves are body moving and the guitar lines sharp, thrilling and vibrant. These guys brought their party tunes packed with a sound that coaxes you to the dance floor and commands you to dance entrapped and mesmerised. They have fun on stage, smiley faces galore as they let the good vibes lure the crowd to dance and groove. Murphy is an expressive frontwoman and exudes oodles of sass and swagger as she hops and boogies on stage. Though their songs have a light fun exterior they pack a hefty punch behind them with gritty guitar lines and mighty drums. ‘Wake Up’ their most recent single translates magnificently live. It’s one designed to get those feet tapping. A Jamiroquai cover of ‘Just Dance’ and a funkadelic rendition of Spice Girls ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ gets the crowd singing along and bopping while a fallen earring and a story about “Patrick The Snake” keeps the banter brief and sweet, so the tunes can grease up the crowds hips and get them limber for MUNKY.

MUNKY take to the stage. Bassist Niall Donnelly and drummer Sam Russell jam and banter with the crowd while guitarist Conor Lawlor combats some technical issues. The crowd are eager, already singing the chorus to the unreleased track ‘Ms Communication’. Donnelly shouts the intro “you know why we’re hear you know why you’re here lets play some f*cking tunes” the crowd erupt as they pummel into ‘Facebook Friends’. Moshing is a plenty as the crowd push forward to the front. A sign held high saying “Play That Munky Music White Boyz” (which later in the night finds it home on stage) is waving floppily in time with the music. Donnelly and Russell playfully interact during the tracks as Donnelly, now well on his way to becoming a master showman hops, wiggles, falls to his knees and air drums dramatically. It’s a spectacle for sure and entertaining to watch. The tunes are massive and the crowd lap up every psychedelic distortion, hefty drum roll and elastic bass joggle. Zachary Stephenson pines, bellows and exclaims over the mic. Hair is everywhere both on stage and among the crowd as everyone throws themselves wholly into each magnifying track moshing frantically. Backing vocalists- the lovely trio Taylor Maslanka, Rebecca Geary and Edwina Van Kuyk wiggle and bop charmingly adding a bit off class to the chaotically fantastic mayhem on the floor. The crowd bellow back the lyrics adoringly almost proud of these four chaps on stage as they shred through our eardrums in the most fantastic assault to the senses. The band seem blown away by the crowd’s adoration and enthusiasm they didn’t appear to expect them to sing every word without fail. ‘7am’ has the moshers grooving to the slinky rhythm and singing along to the “do do do” lyrics. When the audience sing your guitar riffs and licks you know you are on to something good and that’s exactly what happened last Friday night. They sang guitar melodies, basslines and air drummed along with Russell as well as bellowing out the lyrics as if they narrated the lives of everyone in the room. They cheer and whoop the band like heroes returning from war before the thrilling rumbling intro to ‘Jam and Banana‘. MUNKY blend sweet luscious melodies with heavy skull bashing tunes effortlessly and the crowd worship each and every track- singing along to the sweet ‘I Can’t Quit’ just as zealously and passionately as ‘Hunter Gatherer Blues’ which was so loud I don’t think I could even hear Stephenson’s vocals above the crowd singing along. ‘Ms. Communication’ closes their set after the rowdy crowd yell for “one more tune!” Stephenson obliges on the condition that the crowd help him sing. ‘Ms. Communication’ kicks off and Stephenson doesn’t even have to sing the chorus. The crowd take over vigorously bellowing out the “we don’t wanna talk about it we just wanna get F*cked” lyric merrily. It was spectacular. The perfect end to a show which displayed a band that are destined for big things. Their larger than life persona and infectious tunes teamed with masterful musicianship and hard work makes these guys ones to watch for sure.

 


Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Martha Ffion

Irish-born, and now Glasgow based singer-songwriter Martha Ffion has announced her eagerly anticipated debut LP entitled ‘Sunday Best’ which is released 9th March 2018 on Turnstile Music.’Take Your Name’ is the first single to be announced from the album and has an accompanying video which was directed and edited by Beth Chalmers & Claire M F McKay.Initially breaking through with a ‘postcard single’ on Scotland’s flourishing Lost Map label, Ffion’s reputation soared with last year’s ‘Trip’ EP, a swooning five-track collection that was released by Turnstile Music (Cate Le Bon, Gruff Rhys, Charlotte Church, Emmy the Great etc.) and championed by Gold Flake Paint for its “beautifully melodic sway”.

‘Take Your Name’ follows the swoony lusciousness of her EP. A 50’s, 60’s- esque melty melody unfolds upon delicate sweet instrumentation. With its sway-like tempo and heavenly backing vocals teamed with light guitar twinkles and a soft dragged laid back drum beat it’s a timeless little gem that soothes the soul and fills you with an innocent sense of longing and wistfulness. Ffion’s flawless crisp vocals smoothly caress this delicate dreamy track and adds a contemporary hazy filter over this picturesque delight. Filled with heartfelt tenderness and pristine sweetness it’s a soft centered utterly beautiful elegant composition.

Watch the video for ‘Take Your Name’ below