Tag Archives: indie rock

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Runaway Hounds ‘Nightlight’

Wolverhampton’s Runaway Hounds have released their new single ‘Nightlight’. Driven by a passion to create and a love for music, twin brothers Owen (vocals/guitar) and Kent (lead guitar) Stavenuiter spent many of their school years experimenting with genres, sounds and instruments alongside classmate and close friend Dan Glover (bass). However, it was not until late 2016, with the arrival of Callum Ford (drums), that the group found their own distinguished sound and Runaway Hounds was born.In just over a year, the band have played several headline sets in venues in the West Midlands and have taken their sound across the UK, performing to crowds as far as London.Their debut single ‘Rattlesnake’,gained airplay and support from the likes of BBC Introducing along with their second single ‘Sophie’.

‘Nightlight’ is an unblemished clean track that smoulders and burns gradually into a blistering indie number. There is an intense energy behind this tack as in all of Runaway Hounds’ songs however, this number simmers steadily to its crescendo with the backdrop creating a little more space allowing each element to shine. The rumble on bass and drum tap creates a suspenseful intro before the track flourishes into its wonderful flurrying verses. Zesty guitar melodies lament and jingle above this anthemic number creating the perfect tone and ethereal experience. These glorious guitar melodies are the pinnacle of the track, they add such vibrancy and emotion that makes the song come to life in a graceful and beautiful manner while still sliding in a healthy dose of indie rawness. The chorus explodes with punchy drums, sing along ready lyrics and a fantastic bass line weaving between the crashing guitars. Runaway Hounds have clearly taken time to refine their sound. Focusing on their musicianship, they have provided a gripping wholly satisfying track that packs a mighty punch. This four piece are thriving and blossoming in their musical surroundings.

Stream ‘Nightlight’ below

 

 

 


Indie, indie rock, New Music

Vintage Bones ‘Regret and Nostalgia’

Vintage Bones is a new LA-based rock band. They have recently released their debut single ‘Regret and Nostalgia’. The band is rooted in the expression of “anthemic yearning,” influenced by musical greats like The Killers, Future Islands, and Modest Mouse. This fist pumping anthem pulses and rushes with heartfelt emotion doused in tones of longing while a bittersweet dreamy pop melody floats like a wishful cloud into your ears. Zingy guitars inject edgy elements while vibrant bass lines and dynamic vocals evoke that heart stopping drama that will grasp the hearts off all listening. It’s crisp, raw and lusciously sweet all at once while beautifully crafted lyrics drive the track home. This nostalgic number is a sublime debut from Vintage Bones.

About the track the band explains, “This song is a proclamation of love lost. The flash of remorse that happens during deep contemplative moments as the past comes rushing to the present, flooding the senses as if it were all happening again. A window through time to cherish and mourn. This is an anthem to those moments.”

Stream ‘Regret and Nostalgia’ below


Alt- Pop, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Brass Phantoms ‘In Sight’

Dublin’s indie rock band Brass Phantoms have released their new single ‘In Sight’. Their single ‘Waiting Up’ garnered widespread airplay across Irish Radio on RTE 2FM, 98FM, SPIN, Today FM, and Radio Nova, as well as prestigious international features on BBC Radio 6 with Steve Lamacq and Spotify-curated playlists. The five piece consisting of  Ryan Cashell (vocals & bass), Greg Whelan (guitar & backing vocals), James Geraghty (guitar), Adam McCabe (drums & backing vocals), and Colleen Heavey (keys & backing vocals) have headlined shows all over Dublin, performed at major festivals including Other Voices and Indiependence Festival, and were the main support for Delorentos on their sold-out tour. The group has toured through the UK and have performed twice at MONDO Festival in New York, having been listed as one of the festival’s top acts to see.This year has seen Brass Phantoms sign a worldwide distribution deal with Believe Digital. Their single ‘City Of Wolves’ was used to promote television coverage of the UEFA Champions League this year, as well as being added to Spotify’s editorial Hot New Bands playlist .The band follow this success with their brand spanking new slice of indie rock ‘In Sight’.

‘In Sight’ has all the meaty enticing components true Brass Phantoms tracks possess. The ethereal glorious guitars reach piercing thrilling heights as they playfully soar, weave and sparkle over the punchy groove and weighty rhythmic foundation. The guitars in this track are particularly mesmerising as the sweet biting tones slice and sting over the aerial atmosphere with a superb finesse and grandeur that is awe inspiring. This cutting track strides along cool as a cucumber as Ryan Cashell passionately sings over the smooth melody while shimmering icy keys and elastic bass build the track to its massive intense crescendo. These guys create emotive tracks that pack oodles of gusto and rich instrumentation. Each track adds a new and exciting dimension to their sound and ‘In Sight’ is the perfect shiny new addition to their crisp refreshing collection.

About the track, frontman Ryan Cashell says: “In Sight delves into overcoming personal battles and letting go of bitterness. It’s how you treat yourself and deal with these obstacles that will make you stronger.”

Stream ‘In Sight’ below

 


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

The Rupees ‘Terror Lover’

Bristol garage rock band The Rupees have released their new single ‘Terror Lover’. Ryan Tucker (Vocals, Guitar) ,Seamus Daley Dee (Drums),  Jacob Chambers (Synths) and Tom Phillips (Bass) make up the four piece and their music has already been showcased on BBC Radio 1 (Huw Stephens), BBC Radio 6 (Steve Lamacq), and Sky TV and have played Reading Festival, supporting bands such as Blossoms and The Growlers and selling out their own headline shows.

‘Terror Lover’ displays The Rupees blustery synth driven sound at its dazzling grizzly best. With distortion galore and a punchy backdrop immersed in searing guitars this track is mighty and mesmerising. The all encompassing light flashy synths weave their mind dissolving soundscapes around this animated number. Its catchy and dance floor ready as disco vibes swarm the track in glistening bedazzlement while snarling vocals snap out the infectious lyrics. Brimming in intense rock energy these guys blend their blinding synth rock meticulously to have you compelled to dance mindlessly to its thundering upbeat thrill.

Stream ‘Terror Lover’ below



 


Alt Rock, Grunge, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Rock and Roll, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Kingdom Of Reptiles

Kingdom Of Reptiles are a Georgian and Greek Alternative/Grunge duo based in London.The band have released their debut single ‘Blue Magic Gin’ a gritty sweat and leather rock n’ roll track doused in catchy guitar riffs punchy drums and an edgy raw persona. This energetic number strides on the slapping red rawness of the slick guitar lines as it ventures cheekily between its deep grungy range and higher steamy tone effortlessly. The melody prowls over the feisty backdrop with swagger and attitude as this explosive track batters and sensually entices your ears into submission. With a shredding instrumental bridge reminiscent of The Black Keys and sleazy creepy verses weaving their way into your brain, this rock grunge infested gem is infectious, sing along ready and snappy. Keep an eye out for this duo.

Watch the video for ‘Blue Magic Gin’ below


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

DARMA ‘Gloom’ EP

The Manchester-based trio DARMA, have released their new EP ‘Gloom’. The band comprised of Harry Corbett (vocals), Lloyd Whitehead (bass), and Issac Whitehead (drums), give a new meaning to the term garage rock. The band themselves have coined the phrase “loudquietheavypop” to more accurately describe their sonic sound. Singled out by Louder Than War as one of the most energetic young bands around, DARMA have supported the likes of Primal Scream, Dinosaur Pile Up, and fellow Mancunians The 1975 and Ist Ist, DARMA have had a busy 2018, playing shows at Sound City (Liverpool), Tramlines (Sheffield) and the Manchester Apollo for Radio X. 

‘Gloom’ is a searing torpedo ready to demolish your ears in feisty dark grunge, glorious melodies and alternative rock mania. The rich blend of tracks is first rate as they slither between blissfully melodic and frenzy effortlessly to pack in something for everyone. From the first gritty strike in ‘Miasma’ something clicks. A thrilling notion that this band have something special sparks a fire in your belly as crashing guitars throttle through punchy drum whacks and raspy attitude driven vocals. Dark melodies melt with a bubbling texture into your ears as this trio surge kinetic adrenaline into each and every track.The bombarding assault of  ‘Procrasturbator’ follows. These tracks are perfect for that mosh pit frenzy as Corbett screams over a hyperactive backdrop filled with lacerating sharp guitars, rumbling bass and bombarding drums. This is one heck of a track. ‘Hey, You’ cools the tone of the EP with a melancholic sweet melody which glides mournfully over a hypnotic drum and bass rhythm while raw guitar-strikes thud throughout. Anthemic choruses are what this trio do well and this track in particular was designed for the mass sing-along live show display. Their muscular rock keeps the tracks from becoming soppy and maintains a stomp and edge to their melodic swoon. Its all blistering frenzy until ‘Interlude’ brings a chilled dreamy “breather” to the EP as twinkling guitars accompany soft vocal coos. Even during this little rest DARMA entwine some distortion at the end to keep us all alert for the ground shaking final track ‘You’re Always Right’. The moody melody lures you into the dark menacing abyss of the track until you are hooked craving for one more listen. Catchy, creepy and enticing the final track on the EP ripples with grit as guitars crunch and smash their way through a mosh ready rhythm while the endearing vocals soar and escalate as the track progresses.

Each track within ‘Gloom’ burrow’s deep into your veins with a satisfying thrilling sense of ecstasy that leaves you frothing at the mouth for more. These guys are just so good, what a debut EP. I need to see them live.

You can catch DARMA live at:

30-Nov-2018 – Jacaranda Records Phase One w/ Rival Bones + Vulture Cult

Stream ‘Gloom’ below

 


Alt Rock, Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, indie rock, New Music, Punk Rock

Indie Buddie Introducing : doops

Reading based three piece doops have released their second single ‘Laika’.The band comprised of Andrew Bingham (Guitar, Vocals), Chris Crouch (Drums) & Luke Connor (Bass)  have already supported the likes of ‘Touts’, ‘King Nun’ and ‘Saint Agnes’.They have also played packed slots at Are You Listening Festival, Readipop & Oxjam along with a sold out release show for their debut single ‘GUSHROOM’ at the Monto Water Rats in Kings X.

‘Laika’ is an abrasive, raw gash of alternative rock at its most blistering, mind dissolving best. These guys whack out this hyperactive number as it travels at a brisk speed ready for a brawl and jam packed with shrilling guitar distortion and a snappy exhilarating rhythm. Coming in at a short 1 minute and 25 seconds, this song is one pure concoction, distilled to its finest dizzying dosage. The punk attitude is doused on top of raw guitar lacerations. Heavy, meaty beats push the track into your head with a thrilling, bashing force while spacey acid fizzling riffs keep everything at a dynamic high. The rapid lyrics spit through the frenzied soundscapes with an effortless ease as the track builds to a paralyzing guitar solo. These guys have a fresh penetrating sound that is sure to drive your blood pressure to the roof in the most invigorating way.

Stream ‘Laika’ below

 


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

whenyoung ‘Given Up’ EP

Limerick’s finest indie-poppers whenyoung have released their new EP ‘Given Up’ released through Virgin EMI. This follows  their recent singles ‘Heaven on Earth’ and their cover of the Cranberries classic ‘Dreams’. The trio also recently released a stunning video for the title track, filmed in London’s iconic Peckham Liberals Club and directed by, Dazed editorial director, Bunny Kinney. It shows the band as a conduit for escape from banal, suburban living.The band have performed in Dublin as part of Shane Mcgowan’s 60th birthday celebration alongside the likes of Nick Cave and Sinead O’Connor. They’ve also supported the likes of Dream Wife, Declan McKenna, The Vaccines and Peace.Having already played storming sets at this year’s Electric Picnic, All Together Now Festival, Great Escape, Latitude, Kendal Calling and Bestival the band are also supporting Blossoms on a nationwide tour in December.

‘Given Up’ is a perfectly balanced EP showcasing the refined and mature musicianship of whenyoung. They jump straight into their bubbly infectious indie with title track ‘Given Up’. Stinging guitars jaggedly slice their way through this Pixies-esque number as the entire track revolves around a driving drum and bass groove with the honey drizzled melody gliding above like a soothing blanket from heaven.The harmonies in this track are just so luscious. ‘Heaven on Earth’ follows. It’s another tasty indie banger filled with vibrancy, shedding guitar lines and the perfect sing along anthemic chorus. Having featured both of these tracks on Indie Buddie this year I have come to appreciate the intricacy within this trios musicianship. Aoife Power’s vocals are immaculate throughout the EP her voice filled with sweet coos, luscious tones and yet she holds a powerful and demanding air that is mesmerising. However it is their ability to create an upbeat tune with darker underlying tones adding depth that sets these guys apart. The sweet ethereal cover of The Cranberries classic ‘Dreams’ lies comfortably nestled in the middle of the EP. Passionate, pristine and touching whenyoung present the track exquisitely- balancing the tender delicacy with edgy rawness seamlessly. It stops time. ‘Sleeper’ brings us to the end of the EP – flawless, sweet and emotional, this track shows us the sombre, majestic side to whenyoung. Reaching into the depths of your mind they find the tender moments, gently draw them out and sweetly lament them back to you. A soft guitar melody mournfully pines behind Power’s beautiful crisp vocals while a delicate tapping beat sets a steady thud and mournful tone to this magical number.

whenyoung didn’t disappoint they lived up to the hype of their singles and even threw in a blinder in the form of the enchanting heavy-hearted ‘Sleeper’.

Stream ‘Given Up’ below





 


Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie - Surfer, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Delights ‘Sun Visor’ and ‘Sun Lounger’

Following the release of their previous singles ‘Naked Heart’ and ‘Jungle’, Manchester indie rock band Delights have now released their new single, ‘Sun Visor’, and its B-side, ‘Sun Lounger’. These heavenly tracks glow with the glorious sprinkling of yumminess that this four piece do so well. ‘Sun Visor’ kick starts the sun-kissed dreamy tones with a delicious melody spread delicately upon jangly guitars and soft spongy beats. Velvety vocals coo over the upbeat, psychedelic soundscapes as this ethereal number bounces and floats along creating the perfect zesty chill-time atmosphere. It’s the satisfying bite of angel cake to get your mouth watering for ‘Sun Lounger’- a surf tinged gem that calls the summer back with sweet jingles and beachy breezy tones. Catchy and tranquilizing these tracks will give you a subtle sun tan while caressing your ears with the most luscious soothing melodies. I just love the laid back radiant tunes these guys produce.

Delights are also starting their second mini UK tour in 2 days, which has been organised by the band themselves without any manager, funding or record label check out the dates below

November 11th Mayfare at The Cluny Newcastle

November 15th Somedays at 93 Feet East London

November 23rd Delights at Sound Basement Liverpool

November 29th Delights at Castle & Falcon Birmingham

December 1st Delights at Breadshed Manchester

 

Stream ‘Sun Visor’, and its B-side, ‘Sun Lounger’ below

 


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

KAVES ‘Serotonin’

Norwich four piece alternative rock band KAVES have released their new single ‘Serotonin’. KAVES were formed in Norwich in June 2017 after attending a Black Peaks and YONAKA show. Their debut single ’27’ was released on 24th November 2017. The band’s debut live show at The Waterfront in Norwich on 7th December 2017 was a sell out. The tongue in cheek video for the single received 2500 views via Facebook in 2 days, and the song itself got played 2 weeks running on BBC Introducing in Norfolk.

‘Serotonin’ is a catchy shuffle and bounce of indie rock filled with intricate guitar twinkles and punchy funk flavoured rhythms. Caitlin Mapes’ charming vocals ooze charisma and warm tones which melt upon the vibrant melody. It’s a buoyant gem that flickers light springy vibes between slinky guitar lines and a sublime bass groove. Lush backing vocals and perfectly placed instrumentation provides glorious little bursts that keep this song refreshing. This track is a compact tasty number from this four piece.

Stream ‘Serotonin’ below