Search for second guess performed on Wednesday, 7th January 2009.
second guess
We found the term second guess in 219 articles.
The Kinison: You'll Never Guess Who Died
We're only a couple of weeks into the New Year and already the influx of poor quality, tight t-shirt wearing, American emo fuckwits has begun.
Spitfire Charlie: What did we do last night?
For some reason after hearing the name Spitfire Charlie bounded about I'd started picturing a bunch of Oasis-soundalikes in Parkas.
To be honest I've never seen Downfall before, never heard a single note played by this lot before, I've heard good things, don't get me wrong, but I've never been to a gig to see them play, call it laziness I guess...
Adjágas is the Sami word for the mental state between waking and sleeping. Fuck knows what 'mun ja mun' means though...
COMPETITION: Win a copy of the Xi DVD "Montauk"
LMS is hosting a competition to win a free "special edition" copy of Xi's recently released DVD "Montauk".
The Bronx are back with their take on 80's hardcore and 70's punk. Creepy bass looms at the beginning, then it's covered by harmonised solid vocals by hard voices.
Seb Greenfield sings and plays guitar, Sam Hyman plays bass and the American Vic Pavon does for drumming.
Hot Club De Paris: Will You Still Be In Love With Me Next Year?
A little late with this one, a one off Christmas single from Liverpool trio Hot Club De Paris, a band name I always loved but which the music has never lived up to.
The Subways: Rock & Roll Queen
It pains me to tell you this dear readers but it's disappointment time again. I'll admit that when I heard the Subways' previous single "Oh Yeah", I liked it.
I'm tired and hot and I know it's time to get some sleep but what the hell, I'll bang the new The Acutes single on and give this review a bash.
What can I say about Ray LaMontagne that you haven't heard already. I can hardly say that this song had any sort of emotional response for me because it was simply too obvious.
The Printed Sound: The Announcement / Lips
First thing that comes into mind is The Killers crossing paths with The Kings Of Leon, so nothing overly original here.
Fifth Goodbye are a 4-piece metal band from Leeds. At least that's what it says on the box. At first I thought to myself, "another metal band churning out the same old rubbish" but I was mistaken.
Ocean Colour Scene: Golden Gate Bridge
Britpop's princes, now relegated to mere footmen, once more still keep plugging away and I guess you have to admire their gusto.
Another chewed brick through the window. Another moshingly ripped up piece of adrenalin with amplifiers.
Apparently from their forthcoming "best ever" album on Mantra this single seems to include three pieces of sound.
No biog and no website means no information about Galactico, so it's only a guess whether the band is named after the super stars of Real Madrid.
four day Hombre @ Royal Park Cellars
Apologies to MABEL BLUE for missing the first half of her set, but boy did I like what I heard. I was a little later than usual (busses to blame again!) and when I opened the cellars door I couldn't get in there were so many people.
Malcolm Middleton: We're All Going To Die
The epic sound of this song - by the man co-responsible for one of the finest bands of the past 20 years, Arab Strap - has all the ingredients for the perfect number one.
Band Profile: these.walls.have.ears
Experimental / alternative / moody elcetro / pop with multi-layered vocals
Electro Rap Core from Rome... sound enticing? Nope didn't think so. What does Electro Rap Core mean you ask?
The Black Hawk War: Enemies of Fate
Minimal packaging, minimal production but respectable never-the-less. The Black Hawk War feature a fairly convincing drum machine and a sound that plods along slowly, full of ugly guitars.
No Hope In New Jersey: Steady Diet Of Decline
I first heard No Hope In New Jersey's debut single release 'Narcolepsy' about two years ago. Much anticipation was thus created.
'The English Way' is the latest offering from post-hardcore band Fightstar, which starts pretty much as you'd expect a song of theirs to go.
As lead singer, main songwriter and all around head honcho of The Argonauts, Daniel Fell is now going solo. He's playing in Leeds at Carpe Diem on the 12th February, so Gavin Miller caught up with the man himself to have a little chat about all things musical...
Fall Out Boy: Sugar, We're Goin' Down
Don't kid yourself skater boy, these guys are a boy band masquerading as US hardcore. OK so you played to a handful of people in someone's basement back in '01, I guess you didn't have the Fall Out Boy Street TeamTM in action then.
Mr Hudson And The Library: Picture of You
Apparently this guy's got a degree from Oxford but you wouldn't know it apart from that it's mentioned in every review or feature he's ever had.
Aaaaghh yet another "The ....s" band, but wait what's this? No disaffected vocals, no New York / Detroit attitude, no heroin references.
The basic Samskara sound is a rasping flush of rockish guitar riffs, led cheeringly into the foothills of sexual conquest by the bright-voiced hollering of tomcat youth.
Sometimes you wish you could though, go back that is. Back to the moment before putting on the CD would be a good start.
"I thought we were getting drugs" - The Electric Six interview...
Brand New: Sic Transit Gloria... Glory Fades
Long Island's Brand New are, errm, brand new to me... funny git, bet they get that all the time. No seriously, I haven't listened to their music before - even though this is now the second UK single from their second album release - and it is the remixes and acoustic versions of songs that caught my attention at first.
Field Music: You're Not Supposed To
Like a pre-emptive strike, Field Music's new single has an accompanying list of things "you're not supposed to do" with the calculated inclusion of "release a cash-in b sides album".
d-koy: Nothing is what it seems
That's a nice looking lady, or is it a bloke, no it can't be, never, or is it? d-koy have returned again with another example of their zany mixture of pop, funk, metal and rock.
After witnessing the horror of the cheeky girls the previous Monday in this very same venue I have to admit I was quietly looking forward to this gig.
I was really dubious about this album at first, I mean, just how many singing frontman (or woman) bassists do you know?
The band that everyone loves to hate right now. It would seem that everyone who never liked the Stereophonics hates them even more now.
It's post rock kids, but not as we know it... actually, it's pretty much as we know it, but with the added bonus of trumpets!
Jeans Goes POP!: In Glorious Technicolor
Paul Jeans, a Northumberland one-man band, has provided for our delectation this self released album and it does pretty much what it says on the tin.
DJ Jazzy Jeff: The Return Of The Magnificent
Following the successful release of 'The Magnificent' in 2001, DJ Jazzy Jeff returns with the appropriately titled 'The Return Of The Magnificent'.
The problem with having seven people in your band, all wanting a bit of the musical pie and having their own bit of limelight, means that unless your influences are sturdily in place and stay there, everything can come across a little irregular for the listener.
This song is ace. It's piss funny quite frankly, the musical equivalent of Just Seventeen. Call me cynical but it smacks of some record exec deciding on finding a pretty girl, getting her a rock backing band and giving her some angst song to sing about boys.
Enticed only by a cool name and a bit of a bravado, it was with anticipation I awaited the arrival of what was to be one of the most vital live sets I've seen.
Well what can a poor boy do, except to sing for a rock 'n' roll band. Them Amazing Babies may have found a way to relieve their small-town, post-uni boredom but they've inspired some for me.
You Say Party! We Say Die! @ Faversham
Ho ho, I bet we've all played 'guess the genre' before. Yeah, you know the one, it's where you take the name of a band you've never heard of and try and work out what style of music they play.
The Riverside Happy: The Beaumont Sessions
Starting like some soppy mid 80s rock ballad, 'It Hurts' the first tack on this two track CD from The Riverside Happy, isn't sounding too good.
The Conway Story: Lunatic Perfume
Current music trends are always something you either ignore, or in this case, try to fit in as much as possible.
Andy Clare: Only in Your Glory
Andy Clare follows his three track demo with a consistently well tempered 6 track mini album "Only in Your Glory".
Herdwhite: Put Down Your Weapons
Andy Pegram sounds like more of a music lover and collector than a music creator. His solo digital empire runs to a lot of neat bits and pieces, lovingly spliced out of the earlier days of electronic dance euphoria.
They still look like extras from the rough council estate in The Bill but the 4 lads from Leeds have done pretty well for themselves in this their year of destiny.
Okay, first up, confession time - due to the joys of the Leeds bus system, I didn't reach the venue until 9 so missed openers The Lucida Console's set.
Reverend And The Makers: Heavyweight Champion of the World
Given the heavy airplay rotation and associated column inches that this single has already received, it's highly likely that you'll have already formulated an opinion on this offering, and on Reverend And The Makers themselves.
A real mixed bag here; think maybe "I Should Coco" era Supergrass fused with funky disco, throw in some West Coast summer pop harmonies and sprinkle on some heavy rock riffage.
Le Loup: The Throne of the Third Heaven of the Nations' Millennium General Assembly
Inspired by the tale of a man's journey in a time of crisis, re: Dante's 'Inferno', The Throne Of The Third Heaven...
Gavin Miller talks wih Stafrćnn Hákon prior to the forthcoming tour of the UK, which includes a Leeds show on 19th Sepember...
Various Artists: Roger / Boys of Scandanavia - split single
It's a funny thing, electroclash. A few years ago it was considered the in thing, the hip new sound from the underground, the tipple of choice for people who wear ghastly 1980s clothing and cake themselves in make up.
Nic Armstrong walks on stage as a straight-faced telecaster-wielding singer songwriter who may be at best quite entertaining or thought provoking, but probably a bit dull and to think the worst, Badly Drawn Boy-ish.
I saw the Lostprophets on the NME tour way back in 2001 and they rocked. I really enjoyed the show and the album.
It would be great if bands could review their own demos for a week or two. I wonder what kind of press-pack garbage would be submitted?
"Watch the World Go By" is Serf's new big single. The Americana guitar band sound is fine and dandy. The main song has a big dumb and terrific chorus and the layers of strong guitar are a treat.
Limp Bizkit @ Leeds Festival 2000
2pm: Arrive for what is a very short day for me. I come for four bands in particular, Brassy after their amazing set when they supported Idlewild earlier on this year at the Metropolitan University, Soulwax, after an equally amazing set with Wannadies, and the two American bands Limp Bizkit and Foo Fighters.
The Pattern: Fragile Awareness
What I like about the pattern is that after first listening I couldn't stand them. I listen 3 days later and I can't stop ...
Superelectric: Music For Joyriding
"10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1-0-Do It!". The 16 second countdown of Go! is complete. Having listened to the Superelectric demo CD (absolutely amazing) and seen the live show a couple of times I could see a different direction on their free CD, Music For Joyriding.
Justin Myers caught up with Croatian metal band Father when they visited the Fenton in Leeds
Sometimes as a 'reviewer' you grope around in your big bag o' references and with rising sense of panic realise Gang of Four just isn't it this time and in those rare instances it's best just to hold your hands up and say where the fuck did that come from?
Listening to Casper Hauser is like being berated by a hip young mudslinger playing cracked 78s of warped folk songs recorded on a laptop. Casper Hauser's album, It's About Time, is eleven taut fraught shards of angular pop mysticism.
The Conway Story: Even when the wind blows
Whoever wrote these guys' press release must be pretty crap at making references. "Reminiscent of Keane and Coldplay" goes one line, making me fear the worst.
Having not heard a thing from The Knife's latest album, Silent Shout, I'm was intrigued as to what 'Like A Pen' sounded like.
Malcolm Middleton: A Brighter Beat LP
From the stark opening line of the album 'We're All Going To Die' you instantly form the impression that this album might not be as positive as the title would have you believe.
Stuttering, swaggering tones with a touch of denim and a hint of suede. If the laidback coolness of the persistent cropped chords belonging to 'The Shining' don't get you, playing the 'Guess The Next Lyric' game will.
Paint It Black - US four-piece hardcore outfit featuring Dan Yemin and David Wagenshutz from Kid Dynamite / Good Riddance fame.
Leeds Music Scene and Wintermute have a gossip about the new "Fun With Wizard Stencils" EP, managing along the way to incorporate some obligatory wizard magic.
Neils Children take the stage and fire into their opening number. Alarm bells start ringing immediately.
Oh, dear, they used to be rather good. I had to force myself to read the script that came with this album.
A smiling six piece band with trumpet, trombone, drums, percussion, bass, guitar and vocals, all played with serious pro skills can hardly go wrong in the festival sunshine.
Misty's Big Adventure: The Solar Hi Fi System
Here it is folks, the single most bizarre CD I've ever come across. Musically, it's impossible to label, as they have so many different guises and sounds on this record that you lose yourself trying to second guess where the album is going to go next.
Coldplay: A Rush Of Blood To The Head
Bedwetter music?? Coldplay took Alan McGee's taunt and rammed it back down his throat. If this LP was Coldplay's attempt to shake off the indie-student rock tag then they have succeeded majestically.
Cha Cha Cohen: All Artists are Criminals
This is an angry piece of work. Jaqi and Keith Gregory have gone to Australia and do not intend to promote the product.
Terra Diablo: Swings & Roundabouts (album sampler)
These tracks are from Terra Diablo's soon-to-be-released debut album on Zuma. Terra Diablo are a kind of Glasgow cross between Leeds bands Four Day Hombre and Parisman - in that they operate at a similar near-breakthrough level and get serious local respect.
Houston Calls: A Collection Of Short Stories
If I gave you one guess as to what label this lightweight pop-punk identikit effort was released on, even the most inept popular music fan in the world would probably utter the words "Drive-Thru".
The Kinison: What Are You Listening to?
Chillingly amazing first song, lads ('The Farm and The Girls'). OoooooOoooOoohh! That was a shudder, that was.
I can't believe how impressed I am with this CD. And not only do I get to listen to some cracking songs - and I mean cracking - I get a whole album of them through the post, a ten-track album I'd pay good money for.
The Belles: Never Said Anything
déjŕ vu : n. 1. (Psych) illusory feeling of having already experienced a present situation. 2. Something tediously familiar.
Stuffy and The Fuses @ Joseph's Well
The marathon framework of the day creates a nice ad hoc feel as each band comes on. However, this can be a problem for the bands upstairs.
The Long Blondes @ Escobar (Wakefield)
Word to the Louder Than Bombs crew for a quality line up, and the disappointed looks in a queue that from just 8.15pm had to sit out a one-in-one-out situation tells a story in itself!
The last time I heard anyone mention Hanoi Rocks it was in a Pitchfork Media roundup of the best records of 2006.
The Bilderberg Group: I Knew You'd Know I'd Know You Know
The Bonzo Dog Band meet Martin Newell in experimental party spirits. This is Da Da puckishness at its merriest.
The much hyped Glasgow 4 piece came to a sold out Faversham with a crazy amount of expectation, was there a 'picks for '08' piece that didn't feature them?
Jim's Super Stereo World @ Joseph's Well
Much pop history has come and gone since Jimbob and Fruitbat decided, in the mid-nineties, that they just weren't having fun anymore and disbanded Carter the Unstoppable Sex Machine.
The 60's eh? Ford Consuls, Formica, Richard Dimbleby, Judith Chalmers, Cliff Richard and Marty Wilde.
Decoy proclaim 'This Is Disco', but sadly the title should perhaps be something more like 'This is a funky tea-dance'!
Scotland's Dark Water have great stage presence, though it is samey and unoriginal. The female vocals are on the whole ok apart from the odd bum note, and the guitarist seems to focus more on pulling faces and attracting the females' attention then actually playing.
The Hit and Runs: Set The Cameras Rollin'
"Pissed up in a nightclub, and I'll probably nip your arse and my mate will probably get his out..." Well whaddya know?
Cypress Hill: What's Your Number
I bet the remaining members of The Clash are laughing their asses off on a regular basis. Not only do they still have an army of loyal fans after all this time, but pretty much all their more groovy stuff gets sampled.
Jon Gomm @ Love Apple (Bradford)
I think we all know the story by now. A young sprightly reviewer who has never seen Jon Gomm before sits himself down and waits in anticipation.
Go to a folk gig... what is that about? Well, I've been into Kate Rusby's music since I got her excellent album "10" as a present from a discerning music lover.
Hallelujah Johnson: 33.3 Revolutionsperminute
Hallelujah Johnson have plenty of talent, some crafty-sounding beats and some cunning turntable noises.
There were rumours before this show that lead vocalist/guitarist Adam Sweeney had found religion in the remote regions of Tibet, that Chris had been arrested before the show and wasn't going to show, that Holly had developed an eating disorder from going on the Atkins diet, and that The Alamo had acquired a new drummer whilst they have been away.
Youthmovie Soundtrack Strategies: When we won't have to make the freezing scene no more
Some extravagant praise comes ahead of this CD. So I'm on my guard. But fear not. It's pretty not bad.
Third solo album for Kelli Ali, who must get sooo tired of only being known as the former singer for Sneaker Pimps (you know, 'Six Underground', you've probably got it somewhere), it must be a mixed blessing that since being asked to leave over 10 years ago neither party has been best known for their chart bothering.
Ska Punk is one of those phrases that fails to describe the music of Saving Lenny. They have primitive songs (punk-ish) and occasional spurts of up-beat horns (sort of ska-ish nearly).
The Most Terrifying Thing: Victoriana
Musically, what would the most terrifying thing be? Hows about Gary Glitter, on Speed, performing at a multi-racial Crčche?
From the depths of Zebra Industries, I'm clouted on the back of the head by a very interesting three track demo CD of side project material.
Coming dead last in the originality race (tied with Jet of course) is Kelly Jones and his now two-man band, Stereophonics.
Whole Sky Monitor: We Grow Up EP
Whole Sky Monitor start from a great name and a well tended niche in the Leeds music scene. We have a confident guitar band here, with strong drumming and top production values.
The first act to play the bigger stage of the Cockpit tonight are Ins and Outs. The Leeds-based band stumble through a set of 'lager rock', accompanying two big pairs of lungs which concentrate on being as loud as possible, instead of the idea of tuning. What did entertain the crowd was probably more to do with their unique dance moves.
Instant Species: Tax Man, Funny Man
It's been several years since I last reviewed Instant Species and one of my first direct encounters with the band was when I promoted the band at a Blue Star Music event at Joseph's Well.
It's Frank Sidebottom at the New Roscoe, you know it is, it really is. It's a middle aged man in a papier mache head, who really should know better by now.
The twinkly piano-pop of lead-track 'You Can Call Me Peter' isn't an instant hit, its twee Englishness being initially underwhelming.
This is very primitive guitar rock with a swagger and attitude that some people are just going to love.
They came all the way from Japan to play in Leeds, so I thought I could make the journey from Bradford to see Mono, purveyors of epic, sky scraping post rock a la Mogwai, Godspeed, etc.
"You've got to see Voodoo Glow Skulls. They, like, invented ska-punk man. Mad as fuck", mumbles the ever-reliable drunk, fired in the general direction of where I'm standing.
Ocean Colour Scene: A Hyperactive Workout For The Flying Squad
There was a time once when Ocean Colour Scene were nigh-on one of the biggest bands in the country. What were we thinking?
The Unisex: Pigs In Their Farms
Something's happening in Europe. I guess it was always coming, but after years of exporting nothing but throwaway pop trash, those wacky Europeans are finally delivering something great.
Ghosts in the Nightclub @ Royal Park Cellars
I missed Miranda Arieh tonight and I have no excuse for it, sorry. But I stumbled in eventually and had the pleasure of seeing Frankie Eisenhower.
Easy Now All Stars @ The Wardrobe
I hadn't been warned what to expect when I arrived at the wardrobe. I guess I was expecting a gig, followed by a DJ set.
Love with Arthur Lee @ Irish Centre
As I'm sat waiting for things to kick off, having a pre-gig pint, I reflect on the fact that Arthur Lee has been involved with Love for as long as I have been involved in breathing oxygen on my own.
The Pigeon Detectives @ Leeds Town Hall
The Big Fight; Could two support acts be more different? Round One, Micky P Kerr vs. Air Traffic. Ding Ding Ding.
Kate Zezulka talks music, venues and days off work with Leeds' i concur in the run up to the single release...
First up at Tuesday's Elustrious night were Leeds skank-meisters UNIT - a seven-piece whose horn enhanced take on dub was straight from the lo-fi, speaker-shuddering rulebook of 60s and 70s Jamaican studio supremo King Tubby.
Signal Generator: Square Wave EP
The "Square Wave" EP from Huddersfeld's Signal Generator (Peter Morttram) is four tracks with (as far my lugs can tell) not a square wave anywhere.
It has to be said, upfront, that The Panama Nights are probably the most enjoyable gig nights in Leeds.
Ric Neale: Hasn't Heard of You Either
Ric Neale does faultless pro-style songs with a contemporary r&b flavour. Great voice, slick sidemen and a warm jazz inclination add up to a luxurious journey through eight memorable tunes.
Okay so generally people like to start with the good news first. The first single from Lazy B 'Underwear Goes Inside The Pants' is strong, political and at times laugh out loud funny.
Clarkesville: The Last Chapter
A drop of rain was the final ingredient for propelling Travis into the major league of the UK's recording artists.
Burn The Mona Lisa: Plastic Pop
Displaying genuine heart-on-the-sleeve histrionics, Burn The Mona Lisa are said to be on a mission to 'overthrow the overrated' according to the media blurb accompanying this release.
Goldie Lookin' Chain @ The Refectory
It's been a bit of a weird day. Walking towards Leeds Uni to interview Goldie Lookin' Chain I'm sure Eggsy walks past me.
My Awesome Compilation @ Joseph's Well
It's fair to say My Awesome Compilation's debut full length 'Plans' didn't exactly "break" the band the way it could and probably should have done.
In the field of heavy metal/ hard rock, some bands try their very best to push forward the template to an otherwise limited genre.
Feeder: Picture of Perfect Youth
Feeder have made the right decision here I think. Four albums into their career many bands (or record labels perhaps) would go for the cash cow 'Greatest Hits' album.
Rhode Island: Happy Birthday EP
The first thing I noticed when this CD started playing was that ... it was amazing! I'm not just saying that to avoid being harsh to the band (which I have noticed happens too much), this EP is truly incredible.
Rob J Madin: We Will Eat Ourselves...
Technology: Yay or Neigh? As part of my University Degree in Music Journalism (Hon-est) I was asked to write an essay on 'The Impact of Technology on Music in the Twenty-First Century'.
Cathy Simpson talks to The Warlocks about drugs, music, guitars and groupies...
Julie Ellison @ Trades Club (Hebden Bridge)
Two rather significant women singer-songwriter-guitarists had Hebden Bridge Trades Club in the palms of their hands on the evening of Thursday 8 July.
Now here's something you don't get very often - a band who like indie music but don't sound like The Stone Roses or Oasis.
Interview: From Autumn To Ashes
Daniel Powell talks with Long Island post-hardcore band From Autumn To Ashes when they play as part of Live At Leeds 2007
Jimmy Chamberlin Complex: Life Begins Again
This release sees the return of rock veteran Jimmy Chamberlain, getting behind his drum kit again following his involvement in some of the most memorable musical moments of the 90s, as drummer for both Smashing Pumpkins and Zwan.
Any late December night, the WD40 aerosol may get a chance to prove its worth; and there it was on stage at the Roscoe doing its bit from time to time in getting the guitar of The Hamsters' lead player/vocalist Slim into condition for what he does with it.
I have never seen Guy Garvey smile as much as he smiled tonight, this is a man more likely to be spotted looking rejected and sullen in some seedy backroom bar with a fag, a pint of ale and his trusty notebook detailing the minutiae of his every failing in the romance department.
This is a charming and musically accomplished collection. Jonny Berliner has a great voice and some stylish sidemen.
It's a huge testament to Little Man Tate to state that most, if not all, of their material tonight is treated like some kind of greatest hits collection.
The meandering acoustic guitar and hazy vocals of opener 'Remember Me (Summer Gone)' would make for a pleasantly undemanding ballad, if it wasn't for one seriously misplaced harmonica.
Manchester DJ team Future Cut (Iyiola Babalola and Darren Lewis) and singer Jenna G. make up the Un-cut big sales pursuit squad.
"Don't call me PJ" - Gemma Hinchliffe caught up with Carina Round at Joseph's Well...
Various Artists: Across The Pennines IV
Another ATP compilation hits the doormat and, with it comes another predictably unpredictable clutch of northern sparkle.
Interview: All My Friends Are Dead
Gavin Miller speaks with Leeds' newest post-rock prodigies All My Friends Are Dead
This Et Al kick start the weekend with a wall of noise that pulses through you like an adrenaline shot.
Two bands had pulled out of this bill by the beginning of the week. Stoopi, who apparently have classed themselves far above playing venues of the well's size, and Viscera both jumped ship, leaving two out of town bands with the job of entertaining a very very small crowd.
4mornings is an ambitious project. Each of four songs is led in by a sound montage of one of the band member's morning.
York, eh? Lovely place, full of historical importance and quaint old streets full of olde shoppes. As for music though, it's probably not the first place you'd look for talent.
Proof if there ever was that this is the best advice I can give to anyone who loves music. WATCH THE SUPPORT BAND.
Instant Species: The Longer You Leave It, The Louder It Gets...
Lured by some professional quality graphics I bought Instant Species' "Home Alone" CD last year. I ended up a bit disappointed by what I thought of at the time as bleak plodding music.
I had a house, yeah, and I had a car And it looked pretty good as I looked like I should - Asylum Hailing from West of the Pennines, Desolation Angels have been cutting introspective slices of beat-poetry set to minimal, glistening guitars and keyboards, underscored by subtle and characteristic drumming, since the turn of the century.
This Days Fury: Nineteen Days To Die
Recently, while looking for my inner soul, I got lost and ended up at an emo cult membership party. I spotted a pale young girl staring blankly out of the window.
FINAL CONCLUSION - This was the fifth viewing of Final Conclusion for me and possibly the most powerful time I had seen them.
Foley (2) @ Royal Park Cellars
My first trip of 2004 into the deep dark depths of the Royal Park Cellars. It's often dirty rock you find emanating from the cellars but this evening it's an altogether more mellow collection of bands.
Donning a pair of mucky old Converse Trainers - I headed down to Bad Sneakers, I felt, suitably attired.
Why, oh why, oh why?? What is it with female bass players? Now I've been in bands with three myself and my current partner in rhythm, Miss Ravelle, is an exception to this rule...mostly anyway.
Duels: The Bright Lights and What I Should Have Learned
There'll be no band on earth more relived to have finally succeeded in putting out a full length recording than the boys and girl of Duels.
Archie Bronson Outfit are a funny looking bunch. Stepping on stage somewhat shyly, they immediately establish the position of slightly odd-looking country folk; an array of bad, ill-fitting shirts and fuzzy beards that just don't seem to sit quite right on their pasty faces.
Sam Saunders chats with Mike Randle, a member of long established and mild mannered Baby Lemonade, who have a secret life as superhero band Love, playing alongside Arthur Lee on the "Forever Changes" Tour that hits the UK this month...
Upon entering Jesse Malin's dressing room at Sheffield's Club Zero we encounter not only the man himself but also a bowl of jelly babies. This can only be a good thing...
The Psychedelic Breakfast: Untitled
Based in Newcastle, the Psychedelic Breakfast are wisely attempting to spread their wings outside their native city.
In a time before you were born, dearly beloved, an Icelandic child called Björk joined a punk band called KUKL.
Well well, I was finally let into The Rocket venue after waiting for no one for an hour and a half. It was already starting to get sweaty with the amount of people in the smaller bar, and I was tired from the hardships of being a 6th Form student at a centre where nothing, and I mean nothing happens all day long.
Easy Star All Stars @ Irish Centre
A band who'd do whole Reggae cover albums of prog rock classics invite dismissal as a novelty act, but for years, largely until the Bob Marley/Roots revolution of the early/mid seventies, Jamaican artists commonly interpreted the work of American and UK artists.
The queue out here is massive. Why this show is going on in the smaller room of the Cockpit tonight is anyone's guess, but by the looks of things outside, they didn't quite think this through.
I must admit, sitting in 'The Angel', (good cheap drinks here ladies and gentlemen), en route to 'The Roscoe' I was lost in the conversation from the other table - let's not go there but...
The Subways: Young for Eternity
Just over a year ago hotly tipped new band The Subways were handpicked by Michael Eavis to play on stage at Glastonbury and since then their rise has been nothing short of amazing; going on to support Oasis and headlining some of the most raucous music events of the year including The Camden Crawl and XFM's Xmas Party.
It's the big one, folks. It's finally here and it's been given to me. On a first listen, it's like being reminded of watching those live shows from a year or so ago.
So I seem to be back at Royal Park Cellars again (seem to spending some time in here recently) Steve Kind warns me tonight is going to be loud - and it was!
L-shaped karaoke joint, The Vine, is the place to showcase bands without stroking their egos or firing them into major limelight.
How could any one miss this gig?!! No, I'm not talking about the fact that this gig is free. I'm not even saying how could anyone miss one of the best young acts in Leeds in Saving Lenny.
It's Saturday night, the cellars are dark, and Steve Kind is bellowing for us to greet rock uber-beasts CATYLYST, and as they take the stage amidst the roar of two distorted guitars, I'm sitting on the edge of my seat with my fist poised for punching the air and I'm ready to rock.
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club @ Leeds Town Hall
So then ladies and gents lets go back a couple of years when Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, the Strokes and the White Stripes were unleashed on us surrounded by a haze of media frenzy and unadulterated cool.
Cathy Simpson talks with Sharin Foo of The Raveonettes ...
The upstairs room at the Cardigan Arms is a perfect place for an acoustic gig. With its small, dark room, the atmosphere is made even better by the dozen or so candles that are situated around the room, creating a very intimate feel to the whole place.
Hooks For Hands - The Carling Stage A packed out and excitable Carling Tent rips into a huge roar as unknowns Hooks For Hands take to the stage.
Dave Sugden asks about their new record label and forthcoming single release
When jumping, dancing and causing general musical mischief in the darkened venues of Leeds city centre, the rare spotted Steve Lamacq is a rare beast to sight indeed.
Drifting, as they do, in a special dimension of their own, Galitza pulsate on a separate cycle to the ones we can normally understand.
Daniel Powell talks to York's Elliot Minor as they begin their tour at Leeds' Cockpit venue.
The Paddingtons @ Joseph's Well
Matt Knee is the smiliest drummer I have ever had the pleasure to watch! It made my night to see someone up there who was clearly enjoying every moment and who was not too ashamed to show his excitement.
Transgressive hasn't half done well for itself. Just a casual glance at the arsenal of bands at their disposal tonight to showcase to a global audience displays that.
Sweat drips from every pore; they bleed your life and finances here folks. Here been the cockpit. Atmosphere is sold in bags, buckets even.
I enjoy acoustic music and being able to sit at tables is great (ok I admit it - I'm old... I like to sit down sometimes) I knew Danny Carr was playing, but wasn't sure what else was on.
Guitarist with Icelandic rockers Mínus (pronounced "Meenush") Frosti, has an informal chat with Gavin Miller about touring, singing songs in English and why Iceland is the hip place to be nowadays...
Fresh from having the accolade of 'Best Live Act 2008' bestowed upon them by no less august an institution than Q magazine, the Kaiser Chiefs arrive this evening - not only to kick off their autumn tour, but to christen their hometown's newest venue.
Picture the scene, playing a gig and someone comes up to you asking to review their CD. OK or so I thought!
Charlotte Hird caught up with Simple Plan when they supported Bowling for Soup at LMUSU
Dum Flux opened up the evening in a punk rock fashion. Melodic, energetic but let down by out of time guitars and slightly out of tune vocals.
Illusion of Intelligence @ The Royal Oak (Halifax)
Remember the film 'Twins'? McBain... I mean Arnold Schwarzenegger, plays the fitter, happier, more productive brother of Danny DeVito in a hilarious tale of family, fun and fisticuffs.
Well this was my first time to the new live venue on the Leeds circuit that is The Kirkstall Lites, and boy was I impressed after the night was over!
In the busy world of the Leeds Music Scene, there's always a few bands who slip quietly into the main arena. iLiKETRAiNS are one of these bands, playing their sometimes gentle, sometimes fierce, but always beautiful take on post rock theatrics.
Leeds Music Scene speaks to Rob and Paul from The Automatic after their set at Leeds Festival 2008
For all of those about to read, if you know either of these bands then you will most certainly know what will be coming up in this review.
Interview: Charlotte Hatherley
Kate Zezulka meets up with Charlotte Hatherley to counteract the Spice Girls' comeback by spreading a little real girl power...
Adem is currently touring his second solo album "Love and Other Planets" and we caught up with him at the West Yorkshire Playhouse where he was playing a headline slot as part of the Fuse Festival.
Victoria Holdsworth talks to Editors prior to their visit to Leeds to headline Millennium Square on Friday 19th May
Leeds Music Scene caught up with The Whip as they kick off their UK tour
Will Ridge interviews Tim Wheeler and Rick McMullen of the band Ash and tries to establish what the future has in hold for them now they have turned their back on the conventional album.
Dave Sugden finds out why Aeon have a problem with drummers!
Leeds Parish Church is such a perfect venue for a band like Low. As soon as the bright eyed crowd had filled up the carved choir stalls, the boxed pews, the balconies and the nave seating it was obviously going to be something special.
Youthmovie Soundtrack Strategies @ The Vine
Whiskas - Transmission promoter and tonight's doorman - is stressed. The doors are open, thirty punters are milling around already and The Black Helicopters are still sound checking.
Interview: The Bedroom Orchestra
I [Kate Zezulka] meet up with The Bedroom Orchestra to discuss the controversial new EP. Tristan Mackay is apparently "all mine" for this interview - yes, that is a scary thought...
The Hold Steady arrive in the UK next month for their first full UK tour. Danielle Millea caught up with guitarist Tad Kubler.
Arctic Monkeys are: Alex Turner: guitar, vocals Jamie Cook: guitar Andy Nicholson: bass Matt Helders: drums Maybe you're about to read this and find out about a band called Arctic Monkeys.
Leeds band Kram release their new double A-side single through GrooveStealer Records on Monday 12th March. Rachel Wilson caught up with the band.
Wrinkle Neck Mules @ New Roscoe
'Even Jesus Christ could use a little wine' Wrinkle Neck Mules: Big Dipper Have you noticed the flyover approach to Sheepscar?
Victoria Holdsworth talks to Terrorvision's Tony Wright in Sheffield during the band's 2007 tour
The annual Bright Young Things showcase has been very much like a 'Kinder Surprise' over the last few years - yes you may look back fondly enough, but you'd rather have a 'Fizzy Cola Bottle' (Futuresound competition) or even a 'Flying Saucer' (local band nite at Joseph's Well) because, at the end of the day, while the 'Kinder Egg' promises much, open it up and a crappy toy that you play with for five minutes and then lose down the back of the sofa is all that confronts you.
"Being a promoter is terrifying" - Leeds guitar virtuoso Jon Gomm takes on the promoter-role as he brings his 'Leeds Guitar Night' concept to the Brudenell Social Club on July 6th.
Red Stars Parade: a refreshingly piquant slice dropped into Leeds' musical soft drink
Tonight it's a six band special with some of the Leeds and District gentry cavorting on the same boards.
Interview: Goldie Lookin' Chain
Holden DeForge is invited aboard the Goldie Lookin' Chain tour bus to talk to Two Hats and Roscoe P about their current tour, leisurewear and mums with cocks...
Youthmovie Soundtrack Strategies @ Leeds Festival 2005
"Hello, we've got a wake-up call for a Mr. Ramsden here. Yes, a bunch of tracksuit wearing oiks are waiting for you on the main stage, they said something about your mother looking for a pianist?".
Victoria Holdsworth spoke to Luke Morley from Thunder before another sell out gig in Sheffield.
Sam Saunders spoke to Chris Helme of the Yards in January 2004...
Iron Maiden @ Leeds Festival 2005
Dark sky in the morning, festival goers warning. Fucking brilliant ensemble of bands on the main stage tonight, festival goers delight.