Tag Archives: indie rock

Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Clear Vinyl ‘Foolish’

Coming hot off the heels of wild festival performances across the UK and Germany, including spots at Liverpool Sound City, Hit The North and Schlossgrabenfest, Derbyshire dwelling alternative pop outfit Clear Vinyl are back with anthemic pop infused banger ‘Foolish’. The band comprised of Joshua Feeley (Vocals), Sam Hutchinson (Lead Guitar), Jonjo Caton ( Rhythm Guitar),Jack Carver (Bass) and James Umney ( Drums) have received support from BBC Introducing nationwide, as well as amassing over 20,000 streams on their debut single ‘That Feeling’, 

‘Foolish’ presents Clear Vinyl’s infectious indie in a clean pop sprinkled package of fizzy delight. With a driving bass line weaving sweet grooves between the exhilarating sound while punchy drums whack out that all important foundation these guys flood their track with character and emotion. The velvety vocals caress the youth filled sprightly melody while the zesty guitar entwines the alternative pop sound with classic rock finesse and grandeur adding speckles of sun kissed scintillation throughout. With a shredding solo and catchy lyrics ‘Foolish’ is a blistering energetic indie banger. 

The video sees the five lads working in their local newsagents, with it being left in the delicate hands of guitarist Jonjo Caton, who seems to take his job far too seriously, eventually leading to some frustration from his colleagues and ultimately, his demise.

You can catch the band live at :

25th July – The Hawley Arms, London 

10th August – Dronfest, Dronfield 

16th August – Peakender, Bakewell

29th August – Lending Room, Leeds

Full tour to follow in November.

Stream ‘Foolish’ below 


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

Mini Mansions ‘Guy Walks Into A Bar…’ Album

Mini Mansions are set to release their third studio album ‘Guy Walks Into A Bar…’ on July 26th on Fiction Records. Each Album, EP and track this trio have released has been more tantalizing, juicy and infectious than the last.Their quirky elements and mind frazzling instrumentation makes them a unique treasure and ‘Guy Walks Into A Bar…’ takes this wonderful trait, ferments it, curdles and blends it as we see the band produce their most thrilling and perhaps honest piece of work to date. 

‘Should Be Dancing’ sets the experience in motion with a funfair carousel atmosphere. It sounds like it could be David Bowie and Marc Bolan’s love child.The track chugs along with that fun happy vibe while the undertone reeks of eerie clowns and danger.Michael Shuman takes his frontman role by the horns.His deep eccentric vocals flaunt with a flamboyant air and ring leader suaveness as he hyperboles, haunts and wails through the spine chilling backdrop.The jangly keys, funk flexed striking guitar and sublime bass weave and entice with an ominous yet peppy tone through the driving beat.The adrenaline heart racing ‘Bad Things (That Make You Feel Good)’ surges with rock ‘n’ roll swagger, slick guitar, an infectious clap along feature and a driving rhythm.

The first half of this album is a flurry of adrenaline and exhilarating emotions expressing one’s feelings of falling in love and all the cheeky bits in between. ‘Don’t Even Know You’ sees Tyler Parkford take the lead. His signature chord progressions on keys glitter and apply the perfect quirky quality to the melty wistful melody and sweet as taffy vocals. Zack Dawes’ bass weaves threads of delight throughout this dreamy candy-floss track. It’s a sun hazed dream-boat that cruises and bops along ready to be the soundtrack when you meet your next crush. It’s a gem to listen to. Parkford snaps out of his lovesick daze with the flurrying more confident ‘Forgot Your Name’. He swaggers over humorous lyrics as this shuffling dance evoking tune whisks you away into a rock ‘n’ roll carefree stupor. A thumping beat and riveting bass create that dance floor summoning foundation. Sharp guitar lines playfully wander and frolic between the buoyant keys and sprightly melody while Z Berg (former singer in The Like) provides the backing vocals. The album gallops straight into the heart racing ‘I’m In Love’. Jazzy keys and intricate guitar lines pepper the track in spice and rich flirtations while the electrifying wall of sound and distorted fluctuations ensure repeat plays. ‘Time Machine’ continues the loved up dreamy tone with hazy vocals, twinkling soundscapes and lush melodies.The sticky beat, zest filled guitar, echoed vocals and sweet harmonies create a delicate tender number with a pop sprinkling.The wistful swoony title track from the EP released last year  ‘Works Every Time’ takes a seat on the album with its sublime lamenting guitar lines, elastic bass and Parkfords velvety vocals reinforcing the ethereal and floaty atmosphere of Time Machine.‘Living InThe Future’ re-introduces backing vocals from Z Berg as the track swirls through dazzling electronics, glam rock guitar lines and groove infested rhythm. 

Suddenly things start to turn sour as the tone of the album changes and the strutting ‘GummyBear’ follows.Though a sweet pop-coated number the track lyrically takes us down a darker path “No, I got love for you no more ”. With a disco- esque undertone,the song is brimming with infectious grooves and funky bass line while buoyant drums fluctuate through the euphoric soundscape creating a rich elastic foundation. Shuman duets with The Kills’ front woman Alison Mosshart on the bittersweet ‘Hey Lover’. It’s a heartbreaking parting of ways however the band deliver this with elegance and dignity. Shuman’s smoky whispers caress the lyrics with steamy seduction as he coos and blends perfectly with Alison Mosshart’s sultry tone.The moving melody drifts along as jangly keys peep between the sombre tone, lamenting guitar and steady beat while the bass broods throughout. All that’s left is for the passionate electronically dazzling ‘Tears In Her Eyes’ to bring the album to a close the best way Mini Mansions can – leaving you wanting to take the entire emotional roller-coaster again.This smoky track simmers beneath dark daze-filled electronics while sultry guitar stings contrast the bubbling and festering bass.The verses are ominous however the chorus lightens a little with twinkling keys echoing naive innocence.The track builds and ignites into a harsh crashing crescendo. It’s an extremely expressive track while the invigorating and smothering instrumentation wrestles and tussles creating a beautiful contrast.

‘Guy Walks Into A Bar…’ is a whirlwind of emotions heightened through sublime musicianship and production.The refined glorious melodies and masterful instrumentation portray the themes perfectly. Mini Mansions are exquisite musicians. These guys are diamonds in the rough. 

‘Guy Walks Into A Bar…’ will be released on July 26th until then you can check out their newest single ‘I’m In Love’ below 


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Bannered Mare ‘Blame Game’

Irish band Bannered Mare have released their new single ‘Blame Game’, the first offering off their new EP  ‘Fear of Missing Out’ which is set for release in the coming months.

‘Blame Game’ is a sharp sliver of Bannered Mare’s alternative indie as they combine their catchy riffs with a fun buoyant atmosphere and rich melody. Gritty guitars jaggedly slice through the track while the punchy rhythm and elastic bass maintains a frenzied backdrop. The track shifts and changes tempo throughout, creating sweet delicate moments in between soft vocals and pulsing rhythms. The chiming guitars glisten and majestically sore before the track becomes heavy. The bulky chorus blasts through at a brisk pace as the crashing wall of sound surrounds the expressive vocals.The band showcase their diversity and prowess through the charismatic and charming guitars and vibrant rhythms. There is something for everyone in this track. Keep an eye on Bannered Mare.

Stream ‘Blame Game’ below 


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Circus Wolves ‘Dance With Me’

Photo Credit: Paul Husband

Manchester alt.indie noise-makers Circus Wolves have recently released their new single ‘Dance With Me’. The band  comprised of Guy Wynn Davies (vocals), Cameron Tetlow (drums), Ben Dodson (bass) Jack Taylor and Jim Ker (guitars) have shared the stage with the likes of The Slow Readers Club, and The Amazons.

‘Dance With Me’ is another invigorating slice of alternative indie from Circus Wolves. With intricate guitars weaving with a breezy, biting sharpness through an ethereal soundscape these guys whack out a vigorous passionate number. Expressive vocals and a wistful melody glide effortlessly into the ears while the whirlwind instrumentation whooshes past with intensity and might. The track builds from the chiming verses to a massive chorus of epic proportions leaving you in awe of this bands sharp musicianship. With an infectious buoyant rhythmic backdrop and storm ridden shaky percussion this track has a heightened sense of urgency. It’s goose bump inducing as the frantic guitars relentlessly shrill, pine and soar with an almost obsessive nature while the rooted bass drives through the whirring sound with adrenaline and stamina. It’s another exhilarating number from Circus Wolves. 

You can catch the band live headlining Verve bar in Leeds on Friday 8th November and headlining Night People in Manchester on Saturday 9th November.

Stream ‘Dance With Me’ below 


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

MAUVE ‘Bouquet’ EP

London based three piece MAUVE have released their second E.P ‘Bouquet’. Despite the husky highland vocals of their Scots frontman, MAUVE hail from London and Cambridge. Formed in early 2017, MAUVE comprise of Steve (Vox/Guitar), Ben (drums) and Ieuan ( bassist). Their debut 6-track E.P titled “Pulled apart” was recorded at Valhalla Studios with local award-winning producer Dan Lambert and has already been well received and described as ‘anthemic and accomplished’ by Tom Simkins, BBC Introducing in Cambridgeshire.

‘Bouquet’ is a palpitating three track knock out as MAUVE distill their alternative rock into a pure concoction of adrenaline and hyperactive melodies. These guys layer their sound superbly adding fiery manic soundscapes on top of neatly weaved guitar and bass combos to create a pretty triumphant EP. ‘Remember’ is a nostalgic, bitter sweet delight as the band blend soft verses with epic chorus blasts that venture into heroic territory. With jagged guitar, punchy drums and an infectious passion-filled melody, it’s ready for the mania of the live shows. With powerful vocals and a dynamic wall of sound these tracks blossom beautifully. ‘Shoreline’ follows the bombastic ‘Remember’. It’s the perfect middle track with emotion and tender moments blended between the robust instrumentation delivering a divine and frenzied experience. ‘Brittle’ is the more vulnerable facet in the band’s sound. Equally powerful and expressive this track cools the tone at the start before building gradually. There is substance and sophistication to MAUVE’s musicianship and the band display it perfectly through this EP. Intricate guitar moments and gentle sweet undertones trickle throughout each rowdy number creating wonderful multi textures and a rich contrast in each song making this EP something truly special. 

‘Bouquet’ is a powerful EP- earnest, heartwarming and filled with sublime passionate musicianship.

Stream ‘Bouquet’ below 


Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music, Rock, Video

Valhalla ‘Never Gonna Get It Back’ Live Video

Dublin alternative rock trio Valhalla have released their new track ‘Never Gonna Get It Back’ a preview of what to expect from their upcoming EP which will be released later in the year. They have also released a live video which was recorded at the bands EP launch party on May 11th in the Bellobar. The band comprised of Mark Boyle (Vocals & Guitar), Barry Monahan (Bass) and Luke Alford (Drums) have headlined shows in venues such as The Workmans Club, Sin E, The Sound House, The Underground and Fibber Magees as well as a sold-out show in Whelan’s for the single launch of “Hear Me Calling” in 2018 which has been well received with airplay on Radio Nova & RTE 2XFM.

‘Never Gonna Get It Back’ presents Valhalla’s blistering sound in all its raw frenzy. With shredding sharp guitars crashing and slicing through the rugged drum beat – it’s a thunderstorm of edgy alternative rock. The dynamic bass weaves through the intense   soundscape with precision and charismatic vigor as it provides an elastic quality to the track. Through the live video the band showcase their energy and infectious stage presence while whacking out this robust potent tune. Its catchy, powerful and one mosh ready speed ball. 

Watch the live video of  ‘Never Gonna Get It Back’ shot by Symmetry productions below 


Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

The Skullers ‘Brooklyn Girls’

The Skullers have released their new single ‘Brooklyn Girls’, the first track from their forthcoming EP due in October and produced by acclaimed Americana artist/producer Don DiLego. The Skullers have twice been featured as the Jersey Rock Band Of The Week on WRAT-FM 95.9 radio. Frontman Jack Skuller was recognized by Songmasters and the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame for his breakthrough talent as a singer/songwriter/performer.  They awarded him the Holly Prize in tribute to the legacy of Buddy Holly and in recognition of Skuller’s all-in-one talent in 2014.

‘Brooklyn Girls’ is a lushly melodic, richly crafted track as The Skullers spread their raw rock ‘n’ roll over a waltz tempo creating a unique and tantalizing sound. Passionate vocals coat the track in a raspy texture and lone ranger tone while the building instrumental backdrop adds tension and heart stopping adrenaline as the track builds to its crescendo. With light jaunty guitar glimmering through the foot stomping beat the track has a sweet sense of innocence however the melody floods the track in a melancholic tone and bittersweet atmosphere. The dramatic rhythmic thuds are hair raising and creates anticipation through the chorus. The track is layered and perfectly progressed to evoke emotion and almost apprehension as the track builds. The lush backing vocals and sweet falsetto embellishment by Jack Skuller aid to creating goosebumps in the listener with each subtle vocal lift or instrumental garnish. Passion, spirit and kinetic energy ooze from this sway-able shuffle as The Skullers once again present a mesmerizing tune to wrap your ears around. 

About the track Producer Don DiLego says:  “when Jack sent me the demo to ‘Brooklyn Girls’, I immediately wanted to be the one to record it. I felt the song captured a new spirit in the band, and a notable leap forward in the songwriting. And I can say, I wasn’t let down. The recording sessions for that song were what you’re always hoping for as a producer.”

Songwriter Jack Skuller notes “I felt compelled to write a song with a waltz time signature and a single chord progression to channel the hypnotic rhythms of a big city. We wanted to experiment and used Ebow instead of live strings and loved it!”

Watch the video for ‘Brooklyn Girls’  below 


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

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From The Howlers 

The Howlers have released their debut single ‘LA Dolce Vita’. Formed in May 2018, London’s Desert Rockers The Howlers have gone on to receive critical acclaim for their ferocious live performances.The track has been played on BBC Radio 1’s Indie Show as well as on John Kennedy’s show on Radio X.

‘LA Dolce Vita’ is a searing debut as The Howlers introduce themselves with a scorching sound – blistered, festered and coiled in desert western-esque guitar and confident instrumentation. Catchy and razor sharp, the track simmers through rooted bass and flexible drum laced verses while the sizzling guitar whines majestically through the humid backdrop. With raspy vocals, infectious chorus and sing along lyrics- this sweltering number blasts through on refined, swagger steeped instrumentation. The Howlers ooze rough and ready panache and  ‘LA Dolce Vita’ is an exhilarating debut to announce them. The rawness and precise musicianship is quite masterful and makes for one thrilling track.

Watch the video for ‘LA Dolce Vita’ below 


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

The Covasettes ‘It’s Always Sunny Above The Clouds’ EP

The Covasettes have released their debut EP ‘It’s Always Sunny Above The Clouds’. Catching the summer sun and bottling it in this glorious four track EP The Covasettes have captured summer and made it bite-size and ready to unleash anytime of the year for nostalgic daydreaming or for enjoying as you create those summer memories. Brimming with zesty radiant guitar and catchy melodies each track is a lustrous gem. From the energetic  ‘Twit Twoo’ with its rooted groove, jagged guitar and carefree atmosphere to ‘You & I’ an energetic love smothered sprightly number,this four piece present us with a youthful burst of exhilarating indie. They layer their tracks superbly with a heavier crashing instrumental backdrop for the crescendos while remaining buoyant and sun kissed. Each track is a delight on the ears. Delicious melodies grace the jaunty backdrop for the sing along friendly ‘Let’s Go’ while the warm and easy on the ears vocals from Chris Buxton adds a charming quality to the songs. With elastic bass lines running riot around the punchy buoyant drums, these guys set a strong, dance floor coaxing foundation to their sound. The EP’s  beach time, adrenaline inducing pace is relentless right up to the final track ‘Fine Lines’. Golden guitar jingles flood the track with glimmers of scintillation while the breezy jaunty backdrop keeps you craving more. 

‘It’s Always Sunny Above The Clouds’ encapsulates summer as The Covasettes flesh out their tight fun indie pop through glorious infectious melodies, big choruses and sublime instrumentation. A fantastic feel good debut EP from this young four piece. 

Commenting on the EP , frontman Chris Buxton said: “To me, it’s the best piece of work we’ve ever done, each track gives you something different from the last, but they all come together to paint part of a bigger picture. It’s something we were really keen to achieve, we didn’t want to put four ‘random’ songs together and call it an EP, we wanted to create a journey that people can jump into and I really do feel we’ve achieved that. We’ve been consumed by this EP for the last 6 months, and we’ve been speaking about it for 6 months before that, so it feels so good to be finally putting it out. Every time we’ve had a spare few minutes we’ve been sat recording, tweaking and slaving over this EP and we couldn’t be more proud of it. It really feels like the next chapter for us, we’ve had an incredible start to 2019 and now we have this to propel us to the next level; I just can’t wait to see what everyone thinks to it… I’d be telling a lie if I said we weren’t all a little bit nervous.”

Stream ‘It’s Always Sunny Above The Clouds’ below 


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

Gin Palace Self -Titled EP

Northern Irish band Gin Palace have released their debut self-titled EP. The band have created a three track EP brimming with sun sprinkled indie and sublime melodies. With intricate jangly guitar weaving beautiful zest drizzled melodies throughout each track the EP is a delight and easy on the ears. ‘Sophia Loren’ sets the EP in motion allowing the wonderful guitar lines to flourish through a buoyant rhythm and groove infested bass. ‘Passing By’ follows with evening sun set tones and sombre hues while ‘Mondegreen’ closes the EP with a slow dance croon. Delicate and moonlit the track drifts on a steady beat and passionate melody while the brass element pines and laments through the swoony soundscape.

Gin Palace take us from scorching summers days to chill evenings with this sublime three track EP. Their use of brass floods each track with warmth and rich textures however its those golden intricate guitar melodies that lifts the tracks and makes them so charming and captivating. It’s a sublime debut EP from Gin Palace as they showcase their precise and compelling musicianship.

Stream ‘Gin Palace’ below