This is a boring / important post.
I am experimenting with hosting the blog via Squarespace instead of blogger, where this blog has been for five years, since I started it. I like Squarespace and it looks crisp and tidy, plus I'm worried that blogger will do a reader and be turned off at little notice, so I'm happier in a new home. Although much will depend with how the functionality goes. I may return to blogger, who knows.
Anyway, you may need to update your RSS feeds etc etc (and I'm aware some old URL / links have been broken, I'm trying to fix that but will take a while).
I think the new RSS feed, which you may need to put into whatever you use is http://www.justmusicthatilike.com/?format=rss
The feedburner has seemingly got that right: http://feeds.feedburner.com/justmusicthatilike/
This site, blogspot, will no longer update. www,justmusicthatilike.com will post from squarespace.
Let me know if you've got any problems and I'll try and help.
Wednesday, 15 October 2014
The Bulls - New Music "Introducing"
When I looked at the press picture of The Bulls (the one attached to this blog) I thought 'that looks like Anna from The Airborne Toxic Event'. Probably because it is. The Bulls is a newly formed side project of Anna Bulbrook and The Duke Spirit’s guitarist, Marc Sallis, their debut track "Come Unwound" simply a beauty.
A marriage of both bands influences results in a hazy wash of gorgeousness where hypnotising guitars, sumptuous strings and dreamy vocals merge together with dazzling results, softening, brooding and heavenly. It makes news of a forthcoming EP an appetising one.
Tuesday, 14 October 2014
Souvenir Stand #5 - Only Talkin'
I'm sure you'll forgive this little Beautiful Strange update. A couple of weeks back my little label released its fourteenth release and one of my favourites (I'd probably say that about every one to be honest), Surprise by Souvenir Stand.
The 7" released features two brilliant new tracks from New Jersey's Stephanie Cupo (hopefully you've already heard "Fall). This post is to bring you up to date with the releases' flip side "Only Talkin'", a concise, infectious, perfect pop single that you should be playing whilst getting ready to watch American Horror Story Freakshow...
Freaky clowns... eek!
Both tracks can be streamed and the 7" purchased via Bandcamp now (US via Stephanie here).
Lily & Madeleine #6 - Rabbit
The release date of Lily & Madeleine's second album Fumes draws ever nearer (October 27th via Asthmatic Kitty Records) and to stir up yet more anticipation the sibling duo have shared new track "Rabbit" from the record, it follows "The Wolf Is Free" and similarly exudes a rich, expansive melody, here more boundless and bright than we've seen before.
The restrained intimacy which made up much of the Lily & Madeleine album (still only one year old) has been traded in for stirring, layered instrumentation with strong string work propelling "Rabbit" forward amongst the sister's ever-pretty entwined vocals, they remain crystal clear and beautiful leaving you wrapped in a warming glow and joy. That will do for me...
Monday, 13 October 2014
Switches - 15 Beers
Canadian quartet Switches arrive in my ears (via GFP's recommendation) with"15 Beers", the first track taken from their forthcoming debut LP I Just Wanna, seemingly due as soon as November 4th.
It introduces a band who seem to be having a whole lot of fun, a sure to be sweaty live juggernaut where fast-paced, punky rhythm section and swirling, pysche keys combine with snarly, girl gang harmonies to create a joyous, uninhibited three mintues of joy. Get hooked below.
Greta Isaac - Down By The Water
I've been following Greta Isaac for a long time now. I can remember first hearing about the Welsh singer songwriter through the very sadly defunct Flying With Anna website a couple of years ago. Time has of course passed and Down By The Water, a four track EP due next Monday is Greta's official debut release (and is available to order via iTunes now).
It (re)introduces a pure, delicate sound with intelligent lyrics and understated delivery that you could imagine being played at both your local folk night or on your Grandparents wireless. Think The Staves crossed with Mountain Man (oh, where art thou?!).
News of the release comes accompanied with a video to the lead, title, track and sees Greta joined by her sister Miriam on a timeless, captivating duet, they harmonise beautifully throughout in a style that is graceful and gently drifting as the soft, pared voices and a clean, wandering acoustic guitar melody weave in and around each other effortlessly. The result; Gorgeous.
Friday, 10 October 2014
Lisa Alma #2 - Fine
I fell hard for Lisa Alma earlier this year when I discovered the Danish artist through her EP Oh Darling, Let’s Be Adventurers, the releases' stand-out track "Bittersweet" soon becoming one of my favourite tracks of the year, a devastating marriage seduction and longing...
Lisa returns to these pages now with "Fine", a soulful gem where sparse electronic pulses and subtle beats guide a truly incredible vocal, emitting as many emotions as you can count over four wonderful minutes, at times melancholic, rousing, haunting and always, always beauty.
The track is availble November 3rd and cements Lisa Alma as an artist you should be keeping you eye on.
Thursday, 9 October 2014
September Girls #10 - "Veneer"
Joining the ever-expanding, increasingly brilliant bands at Kanine Records (Fear of Men, Beach Day, Beverly) are September Girls with a new track "Veneer" (they're still on Fortuna Pop here). The first song taken from a four song EP of the same name due November 24th in the UK and the next day in the US.
Split label releases are something I can see increasingly happening,.. I know from first hand experience that postage price is killing off mail-order due to high costs - it costs £7.50 to ship a single LP from the UK to the US. Crikey!
Back to the music, "Veneer" is harder and darker than anything we've heard from the quintet before, taking their signature feedback soaked, distorted fuzz pop to the next level with aggressive guitars swirling and continually building around a furious rhythm section whilst sinister doo-wop harmonies and equally ominous vocals keep you firmly on the edge. Don't listen to this one in dimly lit alleyways folks...
Faye Rogers #2 - "Wallpaper"
I discovered Swindon based singer-songwriter Faye Rogers back in early spring with a gorgeous and pure debut EP Thunder, she comes back to my attention with her follow up track "Wallpaper", a track shared on her facebook / soundcloud pages with a note about taking a break from gigging to work on 'a transition in sound and style'.
Hopefully the said change will be nothing too dramatic because "Wallpaper" is just lovely. Faye is blessed with a soft, gentle voice that wraps around you with a warming glow and here her lyrics are intimate and beautiful amongst shimmering guitars and swooning strings. It's the sort of track that you can't help but fall in love with.
Wednesday, 8 October 2014
The Night VI #5 - Heroine
The last time I talked about London sextet The Night VI I said 'they have quickly put together a group of tracks capable of sending shivers down your spine or making you smile with pleasure every time you hear them, they deserve to be one of 2014's break-out acts', It seems I'm not the only one who agrees...
New track "Heroine" has catapulted them straight into the upper regions of the Hype Machine Chart less than 24 hours after its appearance online, with good reason too, a silky, polished beauty that will only add to their increased admirers (as a recent twitter follow by chart toppers Disclosure can only verify).
Much like the tracks subject, perhaps a friend of "Sienna's?", you're soon hooked within the tracks spell as smooth, shimmering instrumentation glides impeccably amongst Sophia Rose's deliciously smooth vocals, a refined, irresistible, ear-worm listen awaits below.
"Heroine" comes coupled with the news of a new EP DIY, collecting five of the band’s recordings (track-listing also includes the aforementioned "Sienna" and "Wonderlust"). It will be available on limited edition CD available exclusively at the band’s shows (first). One of which takes place at Madame Jojo's, Tuesday November 18th - tickets. A US vinyl edition of "Heroine" is also in the works.
The Staves #6 - Open
The opening line of this had me weak at the knees, such is its haunting power, "Open", the second track we've heard from The Staves forthcoming Blood I Bled EP is an absolute beauty.
Intricate acoustic plucks and pure harmonies is what The Staves have become renowned for and here, you're not let one down one bit, here though, there's more strength and maturity in their production and writing on evidence too.
From that smoldering beginning "Open" progresses with twinkling keys and purposely slow electronic beats as the trio's harmonies grow together, entwining in unison with the most majestic of results.
I'm glad I snapped up tickets to their quickly sold out London gig at the end of the month, the same day as the EP is released - if you weren't so lucky, you can pre-order it here.
Kid Wave #4 - Gloom
I had to miss Kid Wave's headlining set at Birthdays on Monday for family reasons but the pain is eased by the release of new song "Gloom", the title track from a forthcoming EP of the same name, due via Heavenly Records on November 24th. A release which will also include their last single "All I Want".
"Gloom", contrary to its name, is a bright continuation of the quartet's powerhouse riffs and swirling pysche hooks, a glorious wide-open rock number with catchy choruses, juggernaut guitars and shimmering keys set off perfectly by Lea's breathy, magnetic harmonies. Fuzz pop with an infectious, melodic accessibility - yes please.
Tuesday, 7 October 2014
Wonder Wonder - New Music "Introducing"
I've labelled this post on London duo Wonder Wonder a 'new music' post because the band in question are a new band and have only got two tracks to their name, yet those two tracks have amassed some 250k plays between them making pigeonholing seem a little foolish.
The duo are currently hiding behind their music, planning to release a song every month for the next year, culminating in a debut album. the second "Shark" is a smouldering piano pop ballad full of torch light emotion and beautifully hushed dual vocals, the female voice has a warm, honey-toned vocals much akin to Emily Wood's or Layla's and amongst the smattering of electronic beats it sounds pure and perfectly chilled.
The first track "Body Gold" is similarly pared-down and gorgeous, an addictive combination of pretty, sultry harmonies, intimate lyrics and tasteful melody. You can understand the hype.
November 1st will see the third installment, set your reminder.
Liza Flume - Sleepless Nights
I came across Liza Flume because the Dublin based (Aussie born) singer-songwriter was named as support for Slow Skies EP launch (in Dublin, tomorrow 8th October - details).
Her latest track "Sleepless Nights" sounds like an aide for such, a softening, delicate beauty which wraps you in a comforting black and washes your worries away with a hushed, beautiful vocal and a sparse, almost-non existent wave of slow-burning electronics. The result is just devastating.
"Sleepless Nights" is the first track taken from Liza's forthcoming EP. It's instantly one to keep an eye out for.
Monday, 6 October 2014
Sister Crystals #3 - Obsidian
I'm going to put my hand up now and say I'm yet to hear Sister Crystals debut LP (it's now back on my very soon to do list and can be streamed via Bandcamp). After blogging about the Chicago duo a couple of times at the turn of last year, lastly with the brooding daydream "White", I've managed to go and forget about them. I'm sorry. I'll blame the abyss that is my brain and overwhelmed blogger syndrome...
Colin Croom and Lauren Whitacre return to mind with the sweetly sounding psyche trip of "Obsidian", where jaunty keys and jangle guitars flutter around butterfly vocals and result in a sound that brings nostalgic goosebumps. I particularly Toy-esque part just before three minutes, with kraut-rock overdriven rythms playing out a wonderful extended outro.
RiotHorse - New Music "Introducing"
RiotHorse is the new LA duo Emily Greene and Madi Diaz, a recently formed side-project with "Rabbit Hole" their debut track (and, if their website can be believed, taken from a forthcoming EP called The Guest House).
It introduces a layered and emotive sound that's all tight guitar rhythms and warm, breathy vocals. Dramatic, catchy and lush throughout, it's definitely the hypnotic harmonies that stay with you the longest, ethereal and weighty it makes me think of a tight musicianship of Warpaint and War on Drugs. That's no band thing is it...
Sake #2 - Stay With Me
I find it pretty impossible to hear the words "Stay With Me" without my mind drifting off to Shakespeare's Sister so it might be good for my mind to have it associated with another track, a beauty at that....
"Stay With Me", the second track by the still anonymous Sake follows April's "Almost Never" and is a dreamy, understated affair with shimmering guitars, atmospheric effects and a purposely slow kick drum the languid, softening guide to a truly delicious vocal. They combine for an rich, intimate and rewarding experience.
Kick off your week with this quietening gem below.
Thursday, 2 October 2014
Leiik - New Music "Introducing"
Leiik, a new London based duo welcome themselves to the world with their debut track "Holes", a stark, haunting lullaby which mesmerises thanks to a gorgeous, breathy vocal and an eerie, noir atmosphere. Never rushed it exudes a brooding sense of longing and intimacy throughout as subtle electronics build to reach the most more-ish of conclusions. Quietly devastating.
My inbox tells me that a single is due in November ahead of an EP next year, dates in London for Oct/Nov can be found via Facebook.
Black Honey #3 - The Taste
This time the jangly pysche rhythms are aided by a real spine tingling hum of jagged guitars and huge fuzzed-up darkness. The snarling vocals remind me of a Pins-esque rocker and combines the breathy style with a moody, strong melody which oozes raw power and style. That's a lot to like.
Wednesday, 1 October 2014
She Keeps Bees #10 - An Interview With
Resurrecting an old feature here, the first interview for almost three years. It's something I will hopefully/probably try and bring back on a more frequent basis as I find it rewarding and you also get a break from my ramblings (well shortly)...
Given that this blog is basically a diary of my personal music taste I am always keen to know what inspires artists that I like, what they are listening to and who they would recommend themselves. Hopefully it will open the door to discover even more great music and perhaps learn a thing or two about some of my (and your) favourite artists at the same time.
She Keeps Bees have long been a favourite of mine. It's almost five years since I first saw Jess and Andy perform in London and since I've seen them on at least a dozen occasions around the capital (and Reading festival one time too). Their new album Eight Houses, their fourth, was released last week via bb*island here in the UK and Future Gods in the US. It's been extremely well received and has entranced me on my every listen yet - it may even, already, rival Nests as my favourite SKB record - some task given my connection with it as my band introduction and memories of being blown away at The Old Blue Last one cold, Sunday night.
Eight Houses sees the duo at their most devastating and exquisite yet, combining minimalistic and subtly intense song-craft, full of equal measures fiery passion and spacious intimacy with raw power and emotion. There's moments that bring goosebumps throughout (the devastatingly beautiful "Is What it Is" and "Radiance") and moments that will blow your mind with their gut-dropping aggression and life ("Raven", "Both Sides"), both are incredible. The album comes, of course, highly recommended by me - you will not be disappointed.
Many thanks to Jess for answering a few of my questions.
*********************
What inspired you to start making music?
Music gave me comfort and solace as a kid. When you play an instrument you always have a friend. My father was a musician - he could speak that language and he taught it to me. He was a drummer - played in bands all over the east coast and down south. We would listen to music in the car and he would teach me how to break down rhythms. I loved that sense of community in music and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
Of your own songs, which are you proudest?
We are both proud of Counter Charm - we collaborated with our friend, Gaspar Claus who is an incredible cellist. We recorded it at our friend's restaurant called West Country Girl on Halloween in Paris. Very magical night.
The taster tracks we’ve heard from the new record Eight Houses have been starker, more controlled and emotive than on Dig On. Is this raw yet warm sound something that you purposely looked to create?
I think it's natural to ebb and flow from aggressive to receptive qualities. As we gathered and cut the songs for the new album we realized it was going to be a slow-burn. Andy and I were allowed to focus on mood and performance without worrying about technicalities when using a producer and engineer. We took our time with this album - it was carved through collaboration.
Do you have a favourite track to play live?
I always like playing All or None/ Dark Horse. It's different every time and people seem to respond to the strip down nature of it.
Do you have any pre-gig rituals? Can we expect more banter about jeans when you hit the UK in November?
We have our friend Adam playing with us now. We like to connect and try to calm down before the show. You can always count on me to say something about what I'm wearing - my nerves take over and half the time I don't even remember what I said after the show is over.
Which artists – musical or non-musical - do you feel have influenced your work and continue to do so?
Jason Molina - Nina Simone - Patti Smith - The music found by the Djs Chances With Wolves - people that freely and selfless give to the community they nurture.
Which song do you wish you had written?
Night Owl by Cliff Edwards
If you were asked to curate your own stage at a festival, who would you want to invite along?
The Love Story - Nina Simone - Magnolia Electric Company - Bo Diddley - Howlin Wolf - Jimi Hendrix - Broadcast - Sharon Van Etten - The Kinks - Tom Waits
Recommend an artist that isn’t getting the attention they deserve.
Metal Alvin - Last Good Tooth - Abraham King - Oquoa - Eddi Front - Slothrust - Dark Furs - The Naked Hearts - Little Sister
*********************
A selection of songs by She Keeps Bees and those by acts/artists recommened by Jess.
"Counter Charm" by She Keeps Bees - Serious Business on BTR [ep72.2] from BTRtv /// BreakThru Radio on Vimeo.
Tuesday, 30 September 2014
Jagaara #3 - Heartbeats
I've written about flip side the Jagaara's debut single "Faultline" already but it's digital release (available via iTunes) comes coupled with the release of a video for the singles other track "Heartbeats", a hazy beauty which is only going to heighten those UK Haim comparisons but now adds in a luscious, smooth Warpaint groove for added gloss and goosebumps.
As I said, "Heartbeats" is more chilled, ambient affair than the shimmering "Faultline" but continues to weave the sister's tight harmonies around sparse, polished melodies, here delicate bass and flickering electronics. which gradually shifts from guitars to restained, atmospheric electronics.
I missed their headlining show last week due to an Angel Olsen sized clash and cannot make tomorrow's second one either but some of you may be lucky enough to be free. If so, you'd do far worse than heading to London's The Waiting Room - the trio have more dates throughout October too - details.
Monday, 29 September 2014
The Pretty Greens - Jealous Waves
Last but certainly not least in a little quartet of fuzz (for now) is Philly trio The Pretty Greens, a new discovery that appeared in my draft folders from an unknown source (sorry, I forgot to link you). Their February EP Jealous Waves bringing a charming slice of diy indie pop to the table with perhaps title track "Jealous Waves" summing it up best,
You are soon introduced to a super infectious little gem which flutters around your heart with tumbling percussion, simple jagged guitar chords and super soft harmonies, complete with candy sweet vocals that are pretty much impossible not to swoon after.
"Lonely Hunter" reminds me of Tender Trap, catchy, melodic surf pop rhythms with clever wordplay lyrics, you can imagine it being even more fun live. There's even room for a cover of The Palisades' "Make the Night a Little Longer", transforming 60's girls group Motown sound to pure jangle pop bliss. Extend your summer and grab the dreamy three track EP now, available via Bandcamp.
The Debutantes - New Music "Introducing"
Irish trio The Debutantes contain a rhythm section familiar to these pages, Paula and Sarah from the wonderful September Girls alongside guitarist / co-vocalist Leon.
Their self titled, five track EP is due October 11th via the ever wonderful Soft Power Records and introduces a band that actually reminds me of the garage pop band that the early days September Girls were, full of delightful carefree fuzz, melody and reverb.
Take "Adam's Apple" for example of the melodically driven urgency that propels the release of pop jewels, a scuzz-ball of fierce drums and guitars paint dissonance around delightful harmonies and a perfect pop chorus whilst Gentleman's Wash" packs a similar punch, here awash with a softer, dreamy sheen, a swirling sea of lush kaleidoscope beauty. Indie-poppers - go and give it your love.
If you want a tape, you probably need to move quickly, 14 remain at time of writing. Order here.
Friday, 26 September 2014
Slowcoaches - Tourists EP
I found Slowcoaches via Feature whom I posted about a couple of weeks ago, the band share a member (SC's vocalist Heather) and have recently completed a tour together which supported a split EP from which both bands provided three tracks, two originals and a Wire cover.
Slowcoaches have perhaps the most ironic band name of the month, "Raw Dealing" introducing a sound that is anything but, catapulted by thunderous drums and frantic guitar riffs it's heavier and shoutier than my usual type of pop-punk but I can't help but fall for this blast of sharp, abrasive noisescapes complete with infectious hooks, blistering vocals and a mighty, mighty dose of feedback. A fan of raw / melodic pop-punk played with perfect controlled aggression? Well I'm sure you've already found your new favourite band.
The split EP is available to download now via Bandcamp.
Susan - New Music "Introducing"
Yesterday's post on Working has renewed by enthusiasm for fuzz-pop, so much so that I think I'll have a couple of days dominated by it on the blog, the first post comes from LA's Susan with their debut EP Just Call It.
The title track kicks off the no-stop-for-breath seven minute, three song release with a deliciously addictive statement of intent, combining hook-laden garage pop riffs, pounding drums and girl-group melodies for a sweet as sugar romp.
Flip-side tracks "Frenchie" and "Pancake" continue with the chugging, reverb soaked noise pop moods, charming, swoony harmonies that offer a rush of smile-inducing adrenaline. The lyrics throughout are pretty direct with the rather biting finale of "fuck you, I hope you die alone" ringing through on "Pancake" amongst all the catchy, urgent choruses. Don't worry, I doubt it's directed and you and it's an awesome introduction in any case.
Just Call It is available on a super limited 7" via Volar Records now. An extended EP with more tracks is due via Burger Records soon.
Thursday, 25 September 2014
Wonderful Humans #2 - Worth Your While
Wonderful Humans return after the marvelous "Edge of the Night" with another 80's inspired pop banger, "Worth Your While" is a massive radio-friendly anthem filled with huge soaring synths, electro-drums and splashes of guitar that transports you to late night drives with your high-school sweetheart.
The bombastic melody is illuminated further by Amanda's enchanting vocals, if you're looking for some swooning, deliciously sad daydreams to brighten up this rather dull London Thursday (it might be nice where you are, the same applies), you should look no further than the soundcloud link below.
The band make their live debut at CMJ next month. Not a band place to kick off your career...
Brooke Bentham - New Music "Introducing"
Originally from Newcastle, but now London based singer-songwriter Brooke Bentham comes to my attention through her gorgeous torchlight single‘We’ll Be Ghosts’, her debut release due next week, 29th September via Trellis Music.
It introduces a potential future star, armed with devastating tone and a stunning vocal range as sparse piano and ringing guitar patterns provide the backing to a truly emotive stunner. Goosebumps await.
Working - New Music "Introducing"
My music tastes have varied / changed over the years, this blog started almost five years to the day now (27th September 2009 was my first post). I've progressed from indie-rock to more dark-folk vibes over that time but one constant remains in my heart, the place for fuzzed-up sweetness...
Rhode Island quartet Working are the latest to tick that box with their debut self-titled EP the perfect example, three slices of 90's inspired noise-pop which combine warm, nostalgic memories with delicious vocals and plenty of guitar.
Take "Can't Wait For Summer", perhaps aptly titled given we've just had the first chilly mornings of autumn, where amazing hook-filled pop guitar riffs, machine-gun drum beats and super-sugary power-pop vocals combine to charm your pants well and truly off.
The EP is out now through Shelflife Records and available via Bandcamp. A debut LP is due in 2015.
Wednesday, 24 September 2014
First Aid Kit #9 - Love Interruption (Cover)
If there was room within me to love First Aid Kit more, it certainly went a notch on Sunday night when I caught the sister's at The Roundhouse as part of the iTunes Festival. A faultless set of polished country tunes and perfect harmonies was delivered with beguiling ease and charm, something that UK audiences got a taster of themselves when the band appeared on Jools Holland last night, performing the wonderful "My Silver Lining" from their recent LP Stay Gold, with melodies nearly as shimmering as their outfits, a new wave of fans are sure to be heading their way.
The reason for this post though is to talk about a cover of Jack White's "Love Interruption", a song I am not familiar with at all and got my first taster of on Sunday when they played a energetic, all-out rocking version with enthusiasm abound and hair-flicking aplenty. Something you can see for yourself on the slightly more pared-down version for Like A Version below. I love both sister's voices, Klara has a gold standard of country vocals and Johanna's slight huskier tones makes me swoon every time it's allowed to flourish, here they melt my heart amongst stirring acoustic guitar and pitter-patter percussion. The result is incredible.
You lucky, lucky people seeing First Aid Kit at Royal Albert Hall tonight.
Fear of Men #12 - Sleeper
I'd be lying if I said I knew the original in this case but a new track from Fear of Men is always welcomed in these parts and their take of Ty Segall's "Sleeper" fits so well with the aesthetic of the Brighton bands debut full length Loom (whose place in my end of year lists is a guarantee) that you'd be forgive for passing it off as their own.
With jangly guitars throughout languid, softening, always melodic rhythms and Jess' exquisite vocal the track's title becomes quite apt, a lovely, somewhat dreamy moment of calm for your day awaits below
Fear of Men's extensive tour of the UK / Europe kicks off tomorrow - full dates.
Monday, 22 September 2014
PINS #10 - Come Back
I've been a fan of cassettes over the past couple of years because they offer an affordable way for bands to release something physically. Small-run vinyl is expensive on a per unit basis whilst CD's are not exactly glamorous and add to that the fact, something I know from personal experience, that selling them can be difficult (don't let 'record vinyl sales' stories lull you into a false sense of security - it is harder than ever to sell records as a small, diy label). Many releases these days are seemingly more for the nostalgic, die-hard collectors like myself rather than your day to day music enthusiast - apparently streaming off Spotify (I still don't have an account) is meant to support for a musicians livelihood.
So with that in mind I'm quite open about Cassette Store Day, sure there's no such thing as a cassette store and quicker than you can say feed-an-executive some bigger labels have jumped on board as another way to eek money out of the hardcore fan base with a re-re-re-issue of some 'classic' release but it also offers some interesting / cool releases too. Top of the list this year is this from the awesome Manchester quartet Pins, a three tracks covers EP from which we've been treated to an advance stream of the title track "Come Back" ( a cover of the The Belles song from 1966)
Vocally the track retains much of the same vibe, a buzzy, alluring sheen to which Pins add their own distinctive characteristics, spiky, adrenaline fulled fuzz-pop rhythm laced with darkley-hued menace.
Come Back is released on Cassette Store Day, this Saturday 27th Sept, limited to 100 copies. Don't expect them to hang around too long. Pins hit American next month with some UK shows also in the diary before the year is out - details.
Saturday, 20 September 2014
Alvvays #2 - Next of Kin
Alvvays, one of my discoveries of The Great Escape, and indeed 2014 return to the conscious (if they were ever away from it) with a rather nifty video to one of their debut record's finest moments, "Next of Kin".
The track is as glorious a moment of melodic guitar pop as the year has offered, giving you almost four minutes of near-perfect delicious, sweetening vocals, bursting guitar hooks and glistening, rose-tinted romance. That's something you can hardly refuse.
Alvvays is out now in the UK via Transgressive. I was on my sick bed when the band last hit London so I'm sure to be making amends when the band return to on October 30th - details.
Friday, 19 September 2014
Slow Skies #3 - Bodies
After the exceptionally gorgeous "Ice Field", Slow Skies returns with the second track from her forthcoming Keepsake EP, "Bodies", due here in the UK on September 29th via Faction Records. The good news, it's even better...
"Bodies" starts equally restrained and intimate with slow motion percussion and shimmering guitars guiding Karen's soft, crystal-like vocals before turning in a darker direction, with haunting lyrics and funeral march beats leading to a stunning climax of raging instrumentation which takes the band off to a completely new territory. It's one I like. Lots.
Angel Olsen #3 - All Right Now
First a grumble, I really do not approve of the whole 'deluxe edition' thing (which usually come hand-in-hand with a Pre-Christmas marketing campaign) unless it comes with a free copy for the people who purchased the 'old' album when it was originally issued (and I've known that to happen twice, once Bloc Party, once The Staves). I can understand re-releasing a record to try and ride a wave of publicity or eek out a few extra sales but I'm really don't understand why it seems to come at the expense of early adopters, or fans as they should be known. Anyway, the net result here is that we're getting new music from one of the finest artists around today, so I'm not going to moan anymore...
Angel Olsen is to release an expanded edition of her Burn Your Fire For No Witness record on November 18th via Jagjaguwar, it comes with five additional tracks (or three if you have the Endless Road / May As Well 7" already) and the the stream of "All Right Now" provides fine ammunition to tempt you to part with your hard earned, a slow, sultry number that gives the listeners new and old the perfect insight to Angel's haunting vocal, here it dominates through meandering acoustic plucks and leaves the listener gasping for air with its simple, heartbreakingly beautiful air of splendour.
Thursday, 18 September 2014
Noire - Those Days
"Those Days", the second track from Sydney's Noire serves as a gorgeous introduction to an effortlessly cool and mellow sound, bringing together Jessica Mincher's delicious, swooning vocals with beautifully restrained disco-shimmer and slick, polished production, the result is as smooth a groove as I've heard all summer long (I know it's pretty much autumn).
Fans of lush, nostalgia inducing pop should listen below. You can download it via iTunes now.
The Hanged Man - First Time Dreaming
Rebecka Rolfart might look familiar to you, she certainly was to me from her earlier time in the sadly defunct Those Dancing Days, her debut track as The Hanged Man, "First Time Dreaming" has instantly perked my interest in her new project, offering a dark, heady statement of intent.
What immediately grabs you is the bass-line, full of intensity and deep, spidery patterns which swarm around Rebecka's ominous vocals and psychedelic synths for a mood firmly fixated within the dark realms.
"First Time Dreaming" is released via PNKSLM Recordings and a new act to follow is discovered.
Wednesday, 17 September 2014
Fickle Friends #2 - For You
Pretty happy to have Fickle Friends return with another pop hit banger.
The Brighton quintet's third single "For You" sticks closely to the formula trademarked in their last single "Play" (and the preceding "Swim"). A bright, joyous, ready made hit full of infectious, 80's throw-back pop choruses, sweetening vocals and clinky, soaring instrumentation. If this doesn't have you bouncing around your room, then frankly nothing will.
"For You" is available on iTunes now or via limited CD's at the band shows, of which there are currently many as they tour the UK alongside Jaws - details.
Tuesday, 16 September 2014
Golden Fable #6 - Breathe In
After announcing both a new EP and album for the final quarter of 2014 it's natural to be expecting a bevvy of Golden Fable goodies to be heading our way shortly and sure enough, quickly following the dramatic "Armour" is "Breathe In", the title track of the aforementioned EP and second track to be heard from the trio's forthcoming album Ancient Blue.
The track continues to favour a stronger, guitar-led sound that shifts the bands focus from dreamy, fragile electro-pop to harder, dynamic alt-rock, of course, Rebecca's vocals remain as unmistakably pure and enchanting throughout, carrying you away with beautiful thoughts amongst surging instrumentation, it's the most urgent we've head Golden Fable yet.
Breathe In (and Ancient Blue) can be pre-ordered via Bandcamp. There's a London show (amongst others sure to be announced) already on sale, Tuesday November 25th at Madame JoJo's - Tickets.
Odessa - I Will Be There
Here's another swooning track that your going to lap up immediately before it starts plucking at your heartstrings, California's Odessa is a new name to me and this track "I Will Be There", is the first shared from her self-titled debut EP that's due this very day (via Chop Shop records).
It's pretty magical too, a sparse, sparkling melody that's guaranteed to leave you with nice, warming thoughts as luscious harmonies weave around restrained beats and shimmery guitars.
From searching online it appears to have been used in a stateside advert, it's time for Odessa's star to shine by itself. A dreamy listen awaits below.
I'll update this link when I find a place to stream / purchase the EP in full.
The Staves #5 - Blood I Bled
As someone who has lived down the road from Watford for the past twelve years I think I am in a fair position to say that not too much excitement comes out of the town, concrete market centres and dodgy nightclubs aside of course. So it's left to The Staves to fly the flag for all that is good (and not Elton John's football club) from the town, therefore, it's great to have the sibling trio back in our ears after almost two years away with the title track from a newly announced EP Blood I Bled (the EP is due October 28th).
The track begins in familiar fashion, finger plucked guitars woven around haunting vocals and rich, heart-melting harmonies before slowly unveiling layers of flourishing strings and dramatic instrumentation, recorded it with help of Bon Iver's Justin Vernon it combines Americana with an autumnal and fresh sound that will have you (almost) glad that summer is practically over...
The EP is due to follow on October 28th preceded by a week long series of intimate UK gig - details.
Monday, 15 September 2014
FURS #4 - An Eye On The Vicious
Twelve months have passed since we had new music from FURS so it's great to be able to talk about their new, second official single “An Eye On The Vicious”, a track which follow the wonderful "Just Kids" and cements the London based quartet as one of the most exciting new acts about (a set on the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury had already given me that impression admittedly.
"An Eye On The Vicious" continues their bright, effortless blend of psychedelic pop with sweeping guitar licks and echoey drum beats rising around Elle's gorgeous vocals, the delicious, polished melody is about as moreish as they come and rises to become their most accomplished track yet.
The single is launched when the band play London's Lexington on October 7th - details.
French For Rabbits #3 - Woke Up To A Storm
If you are new to New Zealand duo French For Rabbits, it's safe to say your week is about to get off to the most wonderful of starts. Having created the most serene, calming dream folk on their debut EP it's great to hear we're finally going to get a full length record, Spirits, due October 27th via Lefse Records.
“Woke Up To A Storm” is the first track to be taken from it and it's the most expansive track we've heard FRR to date, don't let that scare you off if you were hoping to hear Brooke's softening vocals and beautiful, haunting soundscapes, you're still in luck.Yet now, there's more too, "... Storm" builds up gradually as per its title, from lush, ethereal beginnings to climax with sweeping, grandiose orchestral flourishes amongst crashing percussion and foreboding piano keys, it's the most dramatic and brilliant we've heard this fantastic band sound.
French for Rabbits are back in Europe next month, supporting Agnes Obel throughout October with more gigs promised for November.
Saturday, 13 September 2014
Perfume Genius #6 - Grid
Now here's an absolute stormer from Perfume Genius, I'm not sure they are words I thought I'd associate with PG after two albums of introspective heartbreak but the new sounds introduced on the stunning "Queen" have been hardened on this, the phenomenal "Grid".
An intense, gripping journey awaits listeners as an looping beats and abrasive synths introduces Mike's powerful, dramatic vocals, pummeling drums soon enter the fore and you are immediately transfixed, soon all sorts of eerie horns and nightmarish screams petrify and the result is simply mind-blowing. A candidate for track of the year is found.
I've no fucking idea what is going on in the video but if you've seen American Horror Story the idea of six rubber men will probably mean you won't be sleeping much for the next week....
Perfume Genius' new album Too Bright is released September 22nd - it promises to be extraordinary - pre-order a signed copy via Record Store now.
Friday, 12 September 2014
Pr0files - Forgive
It's almost the weekend and I'm sure some of you are in the mood for some Friday heartbreak, today that comes from LA's Pr0files with their smoldering piano led "Forgive", a gorgeous plaintive ballad which highlights the stand-out vocal of Lauren Pardini amongst tortured lyrics and twinkling keys. You could imagine it hitting the highs of the charts if released by a so-called household name...
Elsewhere the band deal in luscious, lifted from the 80's synth pop, with "Luxury", the title track the duo's debut EP (out September 16th via Straight A Records) the perfect example of the shiny, hypnotic grooves and alluringly cool vocals that dominate, the result is dangerously addictive.
Feature - Tourists
I meant to do a write up on London trio Feature during the promo for their last EP Culture of the Copy but obviously I never did, let me correct that with their next, three tracks which form a split release with Slowcoaches ahead of a forthcoming tour together next week.
Feature's tracks include a cover of Wire's "Mannequin" and two new ones of their own, the first "Tourism Fiction" is possibly their best yet, adding a sing-along chorus to their jagged guitar based noise-pop, with hard scuzzy rhythms and punchy beats propelling sweet-sounding vocal harmonies that command attention throughout every lyric of the of song.
"Wisdom Teeth" is more raucous, a fuzz-filled fusion of raw talent and infectious pop which washes around you with a smile inducing rush of distorted spirit, something they've brought in equally brilliant dose to their fine cover of "Mannequin". You should enjoy this. Listen below and grab a download of the Tourist EP now on a pay-what-you-like basis from Bandcamp.
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