Reading based alternative three piece doops have released their new single ‘The Lost’. This intense luring track weaves and wriggles around a spacious creeping atmosphere and rich intricacies creating a psychedelic labyrinth of melodies and soundscapes. Twinkling guitars entwine the track in an eerie yet sweet melody that meanders throughout the spine chilling backdrop. The sinister vocals whisper while the steady beat creates a constant to hold on to as the song spirals into a shoegaze hued psych trip. Laced in wispy ethereal vibes doops create a bottomless abyss as they lead you into this mesmerising track with light airy tones meaty rhythms and haunting reverb. The track builds becoming more perilous as the instrumentation and vocals intensify for the crashing crescendo. Well crafted and superbly fermented this track carefully coils and simmers for an almost claustrophobic effect as each component part wraps you more tightly in its entrapment and darkly smothered depths. A magnificent and chilling track from doops.
London four piece alternative band Indigo have released their new single ‘Guadeloupe’. The band consists of Arran Birks, Matt Dell’Unto, Tom Horton and Johann Meux. After the well-received and sensationally titled ‘Please Sign Us To Your Label EP’ was released in March, they are ready to present their newest offering to the world,‘Guadeloupe’.Indigo will be celebrating this release with a headline show at seminal music venue The Victoria on Tuesday 13th August as well as three more shows lined up: The Finsbury on 14th September, Nambucca on October 3rd and The Dublin Castle on November 14th with more shows and release dates being announced in the coming months.
‘Guadeloupe’ is a twinkling melodic track filled with rich grooves and sweet tones as Indigo weave vibrant guitar lines into their infectious sound. The laid back atmosphere is created by the dreamy glistening guitar and soft rhythmic bounce as each glorious guitar line weaves golden speckles of sunlight into the track. With smooth vocals floating into your ears on a nectarous melody while lush backing vocals coo through wispy soundscapes, Indigo create and meticulously layer the track perfectly. The song builds to a dazzling synth-infused crescendo while the swayable melody cruises through this flashing manic backdrop. This sublime frantic soundscape contrasts the daydream bliss superbly and adds a refreshing bite and edge to this sweet sun kissed number. An engaging listen from Indigo.
Synthpop duo Drive have released their new single ‘Reckless’. Based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK the band self produce all their own music. This exhilarating new track boasts Drive’s confident heart racing musicianship as they douse their indie sound in a sparkling 80’s pop sheen. Shimmering ethereal synths wisp and soar creating a breathtaking soundscape and rush of adrenaline while the snappy buoyant beat adds an infectious danceable quality into the mix. The smooth vocals flood the track with passion as this duo flesh out their youthful sound with rich soundscapes, wonderful synths and sublime melodies. With a catchy melody dipped in honey sweet tones this glucose pop number is charming and instantly infectious. An exciting effort from Drive.
North Dublin alternative four piece Bullet Girl have released their new single ‘The Rush’ which was produced and mixed by Graham Byrne. In 2019, Bullet Girl have gone from strength to strength bringing their unique blend of alternative rock and post-punk across major venues in Dublin, culminating in two packed out headline gigs in Whelan’s (Upstairs) on June 15th and at The Workman’s Club on July 12th for Oslo Dublin.
Swirled in a surge of energetic alternative rock with a swanky strut quality ‘The Rush’ announces itself with swagger, adrenaline and sublime instrumentation. With a groove ravaged back bone, the track shuffles in, ready to dominate your mind. The sun speckled guitar, strums little golden bursts of euphoria through the buoyant backdrop while confident vocals charm their way through the catchy melody. This track is saturated in panache displayed by a steamy guitar solo, infectious chorus and intense dynamic musicianship. This is a band you need to hear. Keep an eye out for these guys.
Melbourne / London band Shiva and the Hazards have released their new single ‘Angkor Wat’. Produced by Matt Redlich (Holy Holy, Husky) and mastered by Brian Lucey (Arctic Monkeys,The Black Keys), the single is the bands first follow up since their debut EP, ’Future Cult Classics’ which was released last year. ‘Future Cult Classics’featured the single, ’East India Empress’, which was produced by Chris Potter (The Verve,The Rolling Stones),and earned radio play on Triple J, Triple M and community radio in Australia, as well as BBC radio and independent radio in the UK.
‘Angkor Wat’ is a laid back breezy tune with tight grooves and intricate guitar lines as Shiva and the Hazards venture into their psychedelic hued sound. The smooth melody glides effortlessly upon a busy backdrop of steady drums and weaving bass lines while the sublime guitar pirouettes and zealously stings creating a lonesome rich atmosphere. These wonderful guitar lines create depth and character as they flurry twinkle and crash throughout the track. ‘Angkor Wat’ is a sophisticated track and a sublime new addition to Shiva and the Hazards’ collection.
Shiva and the Hazards will play the following shows this August,September and October
Heavy Rock duo Follow No One have released their new single ‘Fear No Evil’. This is their 2nd single of 2019, following on from their last effort ‘Your Time of Dying’, released in March which has been nominated for Best Rock Act/Best Rock Song at the 2019 JMA Awards in Nashville.
‘Fear No Evil’ is an abrasive rock track that blends Follow No Ones hard hitting sound with groovy elements to create an invigorating number. With intricate guitar work entwining between the pounding drums and powerful vocals this track is mighty in every aspect. The shrilling guitars crunch, crash and soar over the rough backdrop adding flurries of finesse and grandeur between the chaos. The chorus is dynamic and anthemic as the song goes from high point to high point without any lag. It’s a power rock track that swarms in to rush adrenaline into your veins – an enjoyable and exhilarating listen.
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From The Brookes
The Brookes have released their new track ‘Spaceship Rodeo’. After recording their previous tracks at Magic Garden Studio with Gavin Monoghan, including ‘Constellations Of You’ which has reaped major success, they are back again with another anthemic production. Hailing from Grimsby, the four piece comprised of Benjamin Keal, Elliott Gant, Fraser Macdonald and Dylan Youles captivate listeners with their refreshing 70’s style sound and vision.
‘Spaceship Rodeo’ is an exhilarating blast of The Brookes’ passionate youthful musicianship as they douse the tune in heart rushing melodies, sublime guitar work and infectious rhythm. Invigorating soundscapes create an ethereal spacey atmosphere while the elastic bass groove and buoyant drums keep the track grounded. The sublime guitar melodies weave sharp zealous stings and golden threads of adrenaline throughout the track while the raspy vocals seep passion and vigor.It’s well crafted and danceable with that instant rush of breathtaking indie to tantalize the senses and keep you singing along all day.
Bio: DAN FRESHER is a rapper based in Easton, Bristol however his new single ‘Follow Me, Run’ takes a more electronic pop sound.
Track: ‘Follow Me, Run’
Why We Like It: It’s a lushly layered, pop-sprinkled ditty that floats freely on an electronic cloud of bliss while the smooth vocals caress the melty melody. The track is laid back and fresh as the chiming electronics create a wispy ethereal vibe. The sticky slapping beat creates a humid atmosphere as the audio clips add a unique quality making this track instantly likeable and summer ready. It’s a chilled well crafted track from this young artist.
Bio: Bristol band The Hideaways is comprised of Danny Pugh (Vocals, Guitar, Synth), Tim Burden (Guitar, Synth), Sam Bendall-Weeks (Bass) and Jack Ford (Drums). In the last year they received their debut play on BBC Radio 6 Music, embarked on a 2 week UK tour and played to sold out crowds in Bristol and beyond. The band have recently returned to Monnow Valley Studio with producer Matt Glasbey (Editors, Marmozets) to record new music.
Track: Stop Disappearing
About the track frontman Danny Pugh said : “Stop Disappearing never really made sense as standard verse-chorus type of song.When I first wrote it it was a pretty straight indie tune but as we started playing it together as a band it just felt right to keep getting heavier and scattier the longer it went. That’s how we ended up with an outro that sounds like Joy Division in a K-hole.”
Why We Like It: It’s a cutting slice of jangly alternative rock as the band sweetly introduce the track with a soft indie soundscape before belting into a dramatic expressive number. The delicate sweet melody coos and drifts along an indie pop speckled backdrop of zesty strums and golden guitar lines while a punchy drum and bass combination maintains a buoyant foundation. The track builds superbly as the instrumentation becomes more acute and harsh. The guitars crash into a rapid meaty drum foundation as the vocals become more shouty. The Hideaways display their more frantic and dramatic musicianship as they present a hair raising outro of epic proportions.
Bio: New York City based Meyru have played a series of sold out shows throughout downtown Manhattan, including landmark venues like Mercury Lounge, Pianos, The Bitter End. Their 10 song LP, ‘Good to See You’ was mastered by Grammy award-winning engineer Dan Millice (A$AP Rocky, Al Green, 50 Cent).
Track: Wasted Days
About the track the band said:“Wasted Days started in rehearsal one day when Steven brought a guitar riff that he had been working on for a while. The song is definitively very different from our usual stuff. Funky, poppy and out there compared to our normal indie rock tunes. I think that’s what most people like about it though. It allows us to step into a different territory of music and genre. Lyrically its all about the time that you’ve consciously wasted doing nothing but living in the moment and would happily waste again.”
Why We Like It: It’s a strut-soaked funky number dripping in swagger and passion while also oozing fun musical prowess. With slinky guitar lines weaving steamy vapor through a steady beat and lush backing vocals it’s a charming track sure to have you wiggling those hips in no time. With raspy soul drizzled vocals spread on a honeyed melody it’s the perfect ear worm. The track builds to a sing along ready crescendo while the vibrant warm guitar melody playfully wiggles throughout. Its one groove infested charmer for sure.
Bio: Fresh from touring alongside Brummie garage-pop stalwarts JAWS, and embarking on their first trip stateside for SXSW earlier this year, London’s Honey Lung certainly ramped up activity on the live front, with August dates supporting Basement lined up and their first ever UK headline tour kicking off in November.
Track: Nothing
Why We Like It: It’s a smooth yet sharp blast of euphoric shoegaze. These guys blend laid back velvety melodies and soft vocals with crashing blistering instrumentation seamlessly to create a wholly invigorating listening experience. The delicate twinkling verses contrast the raucous instrumental breaks as crashing guitars ricochet off pounding drums while a dreamy melody cools and tranquilizes the mania with its nonchalant tone. This sun spiked gem is a summers day filled with blustery sweltering chaos and a lazy relaxed daydream all at once. Pretty impressive and very infectious.
Bio: Hailing from the working-class suburbs of Newcastle upon Tyne (UK), BARE ROOTS combine 80s soundscapes with 90s soulful rock and roll. The band was formed by school mates Anthony Francis (vocals, guitar), Joe Anderson (bass) and Martin Corkhill (drums) who later joined forces with Ollie Petrie (guitar).
Track: ‘Always’
Why We Like It: Its a smooth alternative track brimming with passion as BARE ROOTS douse their sound in country rock tones while maintaining their alternative roots. With jangly guitar pining occasionally through the punchy drums and solid backdrop it’s a classic ear worm. With a shredding solo and warm tones BARE ROOTS create another charming track to put on repeat.
Bio: Glasgow based musician The Standing Man has released his new single ‘Cos I Feel You!’
Track: Cos I Feel You!
Why We Like It: It’s a swagger dripping rock ‘n’ roll track with a slinky guitar feature that mirrors Soft Cell’s ‘Tainted Love’. The snappy beat and sweltering instrumental backdrop sets the track alight while the reverb raspy vocals prance through with panache and energy. Its a catchy swanky track that boasts confidence and sultry qualities.
Bio: Irish alternative rock band Otherkin have released their new single ‘True Believer’. The band have enjoyed significant success in recent times, with airplay support from BBC RADIO 1 as well as radio play back in Ireland and playlist support on all the main streaming platforms.Following an exciting Electrowerkz show in London, Otherkin will be heading back out on the road across the UK this September.
Track: ‘True Believer’
Why We Like It: This dark 80’s synth, disco banger strides on a glossy electronic background while the raspy vocals of Luke Reilly and indie rock foundation on drums and bass keep the track in alternative territory. Dramatic in its approach with jarring keys and ominous backing vocals this galloping slinky number has everything to keep you engaged. With an epic ‘The Final Countdown’ -esque synth melody leading the way to the creeping verses – it’s an anthemic and edgy addition to the band’s catalogue. Otherkin layer this track superbly weaving modern aspects with shiny 80’s quirk seamlessly. Light twinkles on keys contrast the crashing guitars, thrilling distortion and playful electronics making ‘True Believer’ one heck of a head rush.
Sleater-Kinney are set to release their tenth album, ‘The Center Won’t Hold’ on 16th August. The iconic trio is comprised of Carrie Brownstein (guitar/vocals), Corin Tucker (guitar/vocals) and, now former drummer, Janet Weiss (drums). The album was produced by St. Vincent and is released through Mom + Pop. Tickets are on sale to the general public for the band’s extensive North American tour kicking off in Spokane, WA on the 9th October with a full run of European dates announced for next year including a show at Dublin’s Vicar Street on March 1st.
‘The Center Won’t Hold’ shows a sparkling deeply smoldering new facet to Sleater-Kinney’s sound as they swirl and layer sultry synths and slinky guitar lines into their indie aesthetic. It’s a lush album – rich in sound, vibrant in its construction and smoking hot all the way to its core. From the enticing build of title track ‘The Center Won’t Hold’ right through to the fleshy raw ‘Ruins’ and steamy dance infested ‘Hurry On Home’, Sleater-Kinney present their unique sound blending boisterous noise- rock mania with brooding thuds, experimental moments, electronic swirls and all out smothering indie. ‘Reach Out’ is one sublime indie track with mesmerising guitar moments and infectious emotive melodies while ‘Can I Go On’ swirls a quirky quality into the mix as Sleater-Kinney flesh out their infectious melodies coating them with a sweet candied tone and sun kissed vibe. This album is full to brim with pulsing synths and sensual wobbly guitar, psychedelic soundscapes and powerful vocals. The synths and electronics ooze and seep from the tracks like liquid nitrogen creating a smokey haunting atmosphere of euphoria and mystery while the catchy melty melodies tease and entice. There is a Fleetwood Mac hue lingering over ‘A Restless Life’ and the darkly coated ‘The Future Is Here’ as the guitar jingles and strides with a laid back tone allowing the warm honest vocals take the attention.
‘Love’ bounces with an 80’s slapped pop melody and infectious groove while the adrenaline rush on guitars are reinforced by the lush harmonies and vibrant atmosphere. The rock ‘n’ roll foot shuffling ‘Bad Dance’ drips swagger into the album with every slinky guitar line, panache-saturated vocal and drum thud. Sleater-Kinney display their emotional power ballad-esque style with ‘The Dog The Body’. With lamenting sting on guitar, anthemic chorus, punchy drums and compelling vocals its one for fist pumping the air to. ‘Broken’ brings a graceful close to the album. Elegant piano accompaniment and emotional vocals serenade distant guitar pines in the background creating the most moving and heartbreaking listening experience.
‘The Center Won’t Hold’ is a thrilling album that walks a fine line between sensual electronic and indie rock. Sleater-Kinney blend all these elements superbly to create a impressive body of work that you can dance, sing and rock out to. Its quirky, crazy and absolutely brilliant.
About the album Brownstein explains, “We’re always mixing the personal and the political but on this record, despite obviously thinking so much about politics, we were really thinking about the person — ourselves or versions of ourselves…. — in the middle of the chaos.” Weiss adds, “I think for Carrie and Corin it was liberating to explore a different sound palette. Annie (St. Vincent) has a lot of experience building her own music with keyboards and synthesizers so she could be our guide to help us make sense of this new landscape and still sound like us.” Tucker says, “The Center Won’t Hold drops you into the world of catastrophe that touches on the election. And almost like a mission statement, at the end of that song, it’s like the band is finding its way out of that space by becoming a rock band.”
‘The Center Won’t Hold’ will be released on 16th August
Until then you can stream the title track ‘The Center Won’t Hold’ below :
Birmingham alternative rock band Y!KES have released their new single ‘Shadow Gallery’, a Britpop inspired anthem about dementia. Since forming in January 2019 they have released three singles/videos, their debut being the highly well received ‘Uncanny Valley’. Following slots at NotAFest, Soma Fest, Your City Festival and dates all over the UK supporting acts such as Mantra and Woes, the band have plenty more in store for 2019 including slots at Macmillan Fest & Hard Rock Hell and a hometown show supporting Mallory Knox (TBC). They’ll be putting on a headline show at the Asylum 2 in Birmingham on the 16th August. The video for the new single features a large cast who play the band growing up, 70s/80s pop star and Amarillo singer ‘Tony Christie’ playing an older version of Y!KES singer Joby Fitzgerald.
‘Shadow Gallery’ is a powerful melodic anthem laced in passionate songwriting and dynamic, jarring instrumentation as Y!KES take their raucous sound and rein it in to create a more melodic and tender number. Raspy vocals add grit to the emotional melody while punchy drums and rowdy backdrop maintain Y!KES’ mighty wall of sound. The guitars inject a sweet and stinging sense of innocence throughout the track as they lament through the verses before crashing into the meaty chorus. It’s a compelling and sophisticated tune that boasts the bands ability to write tracks of substance as well as all out blistering tunes.
You can catch Y!KES live at :
11th August – Statfold Barn Festival, Tamworth
16th August – The Asylum 2, Birmingham (Headline show/Video shoot)
07th September – Macmillan Festival, Nottingham
30th September – Mama Roux, Birmingham – with Mallory Knox (To Be Confirmed)
07th November – Hard Rock Hell Festival, Great Yarmouth
Watch the video for ‘Shadow Gallery’ below
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
