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Powerful, angular, mid paced post-hardcore 90's style.
James Burkitt caught up with Gracie (vocals) and Mafro (guitar) of The Antix at The Elbow Room in Leeds
punk hardcore emo
Project 506 have been going since January 1999. It's a three piece, made up of synth's/loops, live bass and vocals.
Band Profile: Bedroom Gymnastics
Punk/indie band based in Bradford.
Model 13's "California 4 Play EP" has now been placed in music collections in over 1,000 households, due to some clever band marketing, and is blatant melodic-punk in a Blink 182 style.
Rolla, in their previous life were the band Rollerball, who won Futuresound last year and did it quite well.
Two things immediately spring out on the three-track demo CD from four-piece "atmospheric rockers" Lunar Camels.
Pounding beats and driving basslines with shimmering guitar tones - powerful music
The Mars Volta: De-Loused in the Comatorium
This first album from The Mars Volta has truly outdone itself. To be quite fair, their unique style and energy is almost indefinable, but I'll give it a go.
Fine Apple, one of Bradford's unknown bands outside the area, choosing to ply their trade at Rios, bring us a great four-track EP.
In the latest single to be taken from Ray LaMontagne's acclaimed debut album, 'Trouble', 'How Come' adopts a laidback country style.
"Nowhere to Hide" is a clanging bluesified rock piledriver with Americano vocal affectation in the style of Pub Rock, but no particular song.
Band Profile: Angel Chain Diaries
indie rock
Think early New Order or Joy Division, think Arab Strap, remember the Blue Aeroplanes and take a pinch of Echoboy for the backing tracks and you will be somewhere near the mark for describing Cosmonaut.
Singer-songwriter and virtuoso guitarist, described by Acoustic Magazine as "One of the world's most successful, gifted and inspirational guitar players"
You know the songs that conjure up emotions the first time you hear them, that order the hairs on your neck to attention, that stick with you and constantly tear at your emotions?
goad are in lower case. Even on gig listings the band tell me that they begin with a small 'g'. A warning perhaps, so that you don't make any mistakes.
Playing the two-track Weeve demo CD brings back some memories, mainly images of bands such as Soundgarden, Bush or Pearl Jam vocals/structure but with a typically British indie-guitar style.
Band Profile: Judging Johnny West
funk rock
In the mid 1980's The Jesus and the Mary Chain exposed the world to its first tastes of fuzz music with the feedback and noise set so loud that the melody was lost below a constant squeal - needless to say it was not everybody's cup of tea.
Tunng's first album, 'This is Tunng' was a triumph of electro-folk in a similar, but more accomplished and darker vein to that of The Earlies with whom they worked.
Futures is the first single to be released from Zero 7's new album "The Garden" which is set to be released in May.
The Gold Fever: California / Hear My Voice
Oh no it's that dreaded genre, a genre in which a band can be very very good or damn shite! Strangely enough The Gold Fever are neither, they have simple Ramones style guitar riffs mixed with indie melodies and vocals, yes kids, here we have another Indie-punk record, a genre which has confused us all.
Friday night, end of May, and we're down at Joseph's Well to see three top bands play to a 100+ audience.
The Dharma: Can You Rely On Them
Upon receiving this CD, I thought - 'Looks promising, very slick. Maybe a better photographer could have made the live looking cover shot look a little less like they are performing at an open jam night to an empty pub.' 'Can You Rely On Them' is a tune that upon first listen seems to pull no punches, upon second or more listens you will be thinking 'what the hell is going on with these guys.' It is filled with lots of quirky little solos, which do showcase a lot of musical talent that is there, somewhere!
Misled Vision @ Woodkirk Valley Country Club
FADGE Though I wasn't really impressed with Fadge's musical style I was impressed with their ability as a band and the crowd response.
The Chiara L's kick off tonight's trio of female fronted bands each of whom bring their own distinct style and charisma to proceedings.
Fury of the Headteachers: You Took a Scythe Home
Fury of the Headteachers have come up with a unique style of punk music. It's hard, full of aggression and passion, but they never lose their sense of purpose.
I was absolutely shattered when I went down to see Edison Medicine and Mr Dogg play at Joseph's Well on Thursday night.
Pop Threat: Amarantal Meltdown
Pop Threat's 4-track EP release on Mook Records begins with an eerie twist of distorted, effects driven guitars coupled with vocals by Caroline, creating a total wall of sound, perhaps an up-to-date Sonic Youth with an almost-melody shining through.
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.
The contagious summer smile is amongst us, the festivals are selling the best flat beer money can buy, and the roads are melting beneath our feet.
It's relatively difficult to pick up the style and genre of Stillman from the first track "Foreword".
The Dresden Dolls are often described as much in terms of musical theatre as those of contemporary rock music with genres such as cabaret-rock and theatre-punk being coined for them alone.
From the opening of this song the bass drum hits every beat, the four on the floor providing the engine for the song.
Chickenhawk's debut long-player is an ambitious and heroic montage of many different types of metal. Crunching riffs swing themselves between battering rhythms and off-kilter tempo changes, and are often interspersed with throat-destroying vocal theatrics and glitches of weird electronica.
alternative indie rock
Another five-band line up at Joseph's Well marks another Northern Sound Exposure event. What makes these gigs so enjoyable from my point of view is that the organisers always try to feature new bands and it's the perfect opportunity to check out some of the potential bands of tomorrow.
More often than not, folk records come with a seasonal mood in mind, though in the case of Paul Marshall and his debut album 'Vultures' we have a record which seems to encapsulate all four seasons - equally as fitting for a frosty February morning as it is for a sun-drenched afternoon in July.
Vae Solis @ Royal Park Cellars
So, metal night at the Royal Park, and the turnout looks quite good as the first band, BEYOND REDEMPTION, take the stage.
death metal
Sticking close to the original version by Massive Attack, this cover of the 1998 hit has Faulkner performing impressive percussive moves.
Apparently trucker style baseball caps are now "cool". Well Grandaddy were wearing them long before the ponces and poseurs deemed them suitable to wear and continue to do so now they are, but for much different reasons I'm sure than the world's fashion victims.
The Ladykillers: The Stars Of A Teenage Wet Dream
Having been exposed to The Ladykillers' live experience - and to be honest, not being overly impressed - I nervously accepted a request for a review of "The Stars Of A Teenage Wet Dream", their latest CD.
The Lost 45s UK: What Time Do You Call This?
The Lost 45s UK nobly continue their campaign to make beat music a force to be reckoned with on this long awaited debut album.
The opening guitar induces a wince, the shaky drumbeat turns the wince into a grimace and as the vocals come in teeth grind until there's nothing but flesh.
Libero are a four piece hailing from the small hamlet of Wakefield comprising of Matt Yates on vocals and guitar, Dan Yates on lead guitar, Tracey Fox on bass and Ian Cawthorne on drums.
The Prime Movers: Party Favours
This EP seems from what I can gather to be arty indie funksters The Prime Movers' debut, and from that angle I suppose it ain't half bad.
Wakefield is the place for sure. Here's another talented bunch with a future ahead of them. It's not fully realised in the demo, with its tendency to try and sound like a "proper record".
iLiKETRAiNS? Were these lot stoned when they thought up their name? According to their website, no! They do actually like trains.
Indie/Pop/New Wave
Second single to be released from Charlotte Hatherley's critically acclaimed debut album 'Grey Will Fade', 'Bastardo', is a poppy, sun-kissed, fun-packed offering.
Enter Shikari: We Can Breathe In Space, They Just Don't Want Us To Escape
Ever since Enter Shikari blasted onto the scene five years ago, their post hardcore compositions that involve smashing together trance, hardcore and screamo vocals shot them very rapidly to stardom.
Jon Doe's: For Emergency Use Only
Having been around since 1998 it is hoped that Jon Doe's would now be at ease with their craft enough to have overcome all those painful mistakes synonymous with any bands early days.
alternative rock
Chugga Chugga Chug, cheeky twidly solo, screamy bits, nice bits. It's a dynamic most of us have got used to since Killswitch Engaged released "Alive Or Just Breathing", but funnily enough, this Leeds-based 5-piece have some killer songs, some wicked riffs and this whole 5-track CD just works.
Whole Sky Monitor: Just Let Me Talk To her
Whole Sky Monitor's biog describes them as "Northern existential kitchen sink dramatists" but as no-one has any idea (or cares) what that means, time to try listening to the music.
indie rock
Off The Wall at The Irish Centre
An old school friend (in my case a Very Old friend) contacted me recently to see if I would like to see a Pink Floyd tribute band called Off The Wall at The Irish Centre in Leeds.
Down tuned guitars and bass - relentless drumming, raging eclectic vocals. I love this EP. First song "Glutton for Punishment" kicks off with a clean sounding guitar chord into some serious riffage.
Various Artists: Ali Whitton / Sarah Williams split single
The split single can look deceptively simple - two bands that stand up well in isolation can incur a musical car crash when unsuccessfully married on release.
Diverse: It's Making Me Crazy EP
Diverse. A word true to fact in this band, as five people from backgrounds ranging from members of senior choir to musical freaks come together and create a musical sound which is so new in today's scene with two vocalists.
Band Profile: The Roman Empire
alternative country
Sounding like a hybrid of The La's accompanied by Beach Boys-esque style vocals The Restaurant open a mixed evening at the Vine in terms of style and quality.
Fifth Goodbye put in a refined performance in front of an expectant crowd to promote their new EP entitled 'This Is My Impression'.
The last time I reviewed QUICKLIME, from their demo tape, I complained about poor vocal qualities. Unfortunately, poor vocals were again in evidence tonight.
Pulled Apart by Horses: Meat Balloon
Most of the connotations carried by the name Pulled Apart by Horses likely centre around their [in]famous sweaty and lawless live performances.
Having become rather disconsolate by seeing many unsigned bands who simply mimic their heroes, often succeeding in recreating the look rather than the sound of say the Libertines, Oasis and the Strokes, it was refreshing to see two bands for whom the music definitely came first at the Bassment.
Neon Neon @ Brudenell Social Club
It's the end of a very very long week and I'm shagged out. I'm at a gig that is packed to the rafters and I'm hoping that Boom Bip and Gruff can perk me up a bit.
Public Relations Exercise: Maximiser Coordinator
The three track "Maximiser Coordinator" CD from the Leicester-based five-piece alt / experimental / hardcore outfit Public Relations Exercise is either a poorly timed EP release or a taster from their forthcoming album, "Come you are safe we are from the bombs", released through the indie label Field Records and apparently due late February.
Fox & Newt, Friday night, it can mean only one thing ... the latest offerings from top local duo Living Thing.
Easy Listening this is not. Opening with a demented Wurlitzer esque drone with sugar sweet female vocals daintily skipping amongst the disturbing synth sounds this could be the background to some B-Movie title sequence.
LSK album launch party announced for The HiFi Club...
LSK launches his new album Outlaw (Sony) at The HiFi Club on Saturday 5th July. The Leeds UK soul/reggae singer will be appearing backed by a live band including his sister and pop diva Rhianna on backing vocals.
Last Night's TV: Better Than That
This CD was a challenge to me as I am not used to reviewing acoustic material but I thought I would give it a go.
Leeds 5 piece Infrasound kick things off with the aptly titled "Fire in the City." Bringing the Happy Mondays' penchant for funky beats and mixing it with the earnest pounding of the Walkmen if only fronted by Ian Curtis, the band produce a nice line in giddy space epics.
Following their well-received "This Is Future-Wave" EP, Brazil have delivered yet another quality combination of guitar-pop tracks.
This certainly sounds promising. An indie duo consisting of a female singer/guitarist and her husband drummer (who really can play nearly everything: drums, various percussion, keys, and - wait for it - a kazoo.
alternative funk
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.
Knowing very little about the band Blowback, the CD went straight on and instantly I was given the (good) impression that the CD was going to kick ass, an American lo-fi sub-pop post-punk and seriously rocking affair, from the guitar intro to the introduction of drums and bass - then the vocals kicked in, the tempo lowered and I thought "Hmmmmm".
Launches of various descriptions often seem to be the best way to stay relatively close to the pulse of any musical happenings while still hanging on to a sense of the familiar and supportive.
The Gift are a three-piece consisting of Sean (bass/vocals), Nathan (guitar) and Jon (drums). This three track CD runs in at just under nine minutes and in attitude and style alone sounds more akin to 1970s punk - perhaps more so than anything that takes that name today.
There is a feeling of beginnings about the CD from Bright Young Things selected Quicklime. It's very "home recordings" in presentation (an unlabelled tape) and in it's sound.
I eventually got down (taxis eh, only an hour late) to Joseph's Well in time to see Sposh. Rumour has it that before the Sposh set, I'd missed a most excellent opening act called Mahwa.
Barnsley trio Mynas offer up three tracks of melodic, easy-on-the-ears indie with just enough undemanding hooks to make for enjoyable listening.
Mmm. You're My Flame displays perfectly everything I love about Zero 7, namely their ability to fuse luscious vocals (this time courtesy of long time cohort Sia Furler) with a simple electro tinged melody to create something truly sublime - chocolate for the ears.
Now coming towards a conclusion for this year, Futuresound 2001 has been a useful platform for a number of Leeds bands wishing to showcase their music to the city, whatever their genre.
Adding an electronic ambience to metalcore is maybe not what you'd think would work, but when done simply and subtly it certainly does.
Formed in early 2008, Guilt Pursuit are a four piece, post-punk band constisting of lead vocalist Eddie Short and his backline of Ben Fowler, Mark Ellis and Alex Tommis.
All My Friends Are Dead: Untitled
Another group to add to the new movement of Leeds-based post-rock outfits, All My Friends Are Dead arrive with a three-track debut demo that, while showcasing a promising musical style, still feels a little unfinished.
So it's a grey Monday morning and a nice lil' parcel arrives at my door, filled with a nice collection of new demos to get my tired juices flowing.
Played conventionally and this record is total arse. It takes no form, heading off in no particular direction, only succeeding to maintain a sub-quality Stereolab style with female vocals over a lackadaisical synth-dominated backbeat.
Having converted the many fans of We are Scientists and The Sunshine Underground as a support act on both these band's UK and Ireland tours late last year, The Blood Arm are back to try and win over some more followers with the second single from their new album, 'Lie Lover Lie'.
Huddersfield's five-piece Hipstream feature the literally amazing vocals of Natalie and Gaff over the top of some equally amazing blues-soul-jazz created by Ski's lead guitar alongside Ian, Reid and Paul.
He clearly needs no introduction. If you don't know his name where have you been? He's the sound of '07 don't you know?
Cardboard Cowboy: The Boxroom Tapes Volume 2
This work-in-progress demo starts with breathless vocals and stomping guitar that bounces off some delightful bass lines before collapsing in a heap, regaining composure and then stomping off again.
The tractor beam slow paced opening holds you just long enough for 'Slither' to explode into its main riff with some good old rock'n'roll "Hey"s before Scott Weiland's deep purr slithers atop of the bass and guitar's grunt.
Yet another band playing a part in putting Leeds on the rock 'n' roll map, The Glitterati are back with the second single to be taken from their self-titled debut album.
Having J Mascis at the helm may bring illusions of driving guitars, messily fighting with themselves, but here he has returned to his first instrument, the drums, along with Dave Sweetapple (bass), and Kyle Thomas of feathers to create a sound far removed from anything they are well known for.
Imagine going to a gig and getting given a CD to review. Well that's what happened with this CD by Seven Hours.
First onstage tonight are the Bradford-based quintet Seven Hours, who mix a dose of funk into their otherwise straight-ahead rock sound.
It has to be said, upfront, that The Panama Nights are probably the most enjoyable gig nights in Leeds.
Metronomy are currently touring the country in promotion of their latest single 'Radio Ladio' as well as their 2006 album, 'Pip Paine (Pay the £5000 you owe)'.
The Lost 45s UK to release a new EP on November 5th
Leeds band The Lost 45s UK will release a new EP on Monday 5th November. "Experiments In Pop" will be available via the band's website for just £1.49 including P&P.
King Palooka: The Wellington Street EP
I had heard quite a lot about King Palooka from the infamous Leeds Music Scene message board, in terms of musical style.
SAMMYUSA take a while to warm up, delivering a couple of songs that consist little more than controlled feedback - as well as the addition of a vocal sample in the opening instrumental.
Lock & Load returns to the Rocket Venue on a Sunday night, with promoter John Trueman brining four Leeds bands to the 60 or so visitors to the proceedings.
I will say right at the beginning that this CD gets steadily worse as it goes along. It starts off in the average-to-good category, a mixture of punk-metal but unfortunately peters off, with the last two live tracks not too inspiring to say the least.
Dressed like they never left the 80's, Honeycomb Love are loud, fun & sleazy as you like with their 80's metal style.
A trip down to Joseph's Well a while ago saw me coming away with a 5-track demo CD from York/Leeds band Blueryder.
The Charlatans: Up At The Lake
The first song on this album is the title track. It rocks and stomps, demanding volume. Burgess blends his natural voice, with the falsetto style he adopted on the 'Wonderland' album.
A year on from the debut from Leeds/Bradford's Stonefish and here we have a further six straight down the line rock tracks.
Once in a while a CD comes along which is very special indeed. Today is one of those days. Produced by the band themselves and released on their own label this is Mondo's second album, "Before the Fall".
Viva Voce: Faster Than A Dead Horse
Viva Voce's latest single 'Faster Than A Dead Horse' is a psychedelic pop gem. Soak up the feel of the song and you'll think you're cruising through San Francisco in the mid-60's.
Tim Fletcher: Winter Into Spring
The seasonally-titled Winter Into Spring is Tim Fletcher's first professionally recorded CD. The unsigned singer-songwriter originates from West Yorkshire (though currently located in Sheffield), and cites impressive influences such as; Nick Drake, Neil Young, Bright Eyes and Devendra Banhart.
The Pipettes are a girl group to truly polarise opinion with some embracing their polka-dotted dancing troupe and others writing in to well-known music papers to protest against...
Blue Sky Project: Masquerade EP
I have awaited more tracks from Blue Sky Project since listening to their last EP on MySpace (oh the beauty of the Web!) and thought they had potential, so naturally the next offering from them needed to exceed all expectations.
This CD is bloody amazing! I was given this when we had just played a storming set at Josephs Well. I had the original "Wow Signal" EP from VISA, which I acquired from the Blue Star gig a couple of months ago.
Ambient, alternative music is on the cards tonight in the ridiculous upstairs room of the Atrium. Peasman, aka.
Beautiful Feet: Suddenly / I See
Beautiful Feet? The best way to maintain beautiful feet is to make sure they don't work at anything more than walking pace, so follows the theme of the band's music.
This demo from Leeds based "groove-metallers" ChasinJade kicks off with 'Kiss The World Goodbye.' This track features an impressive high of pounding drums, raw, live-sounding riffs and screamo vocals, proving right from the start that ChasinJade can deliver the goods when it comes to professional-sounding metalcore.
The Tamborines: What Took You So Long
Despite the misspelling, The Tamborines have a name as obvious as the day is long. Far more interestingly the 3 piece consist of two Brazilians (the nationality not the haircut) and one French drummer, which makes the wall-of-sound Indie influenced by the likes of Teenage Fanclub and The Jesus & Mary Chain all the more surprising.
Not to dwell on the past, but my anticipation for this double single from Lewis Denby was so much after his critically-acclaimed 'Lookout Posts and Telescopes' EP which I had been lucky enough to cast my critical ears over last summer.
Parisman: The Answer To Example 1
First off, lets get the cards on the table. Parisman's music style didn't seem like it was gonna float my boat at all.
Disarm: By Any Means Necessary
What can I say about Disarm? This is a band of energetic musicians that makes a team Sir Alex Ferguson would be proud of.
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...
This Holiday Life: The Fallout
This Holiday Life are almost too knowingly good. Only an American band, and a Californian band at that, could be so unashamedly mellow and well produced, while singing such nifty songs with such passion and style.
Hellogoodbye: Here (In Your Arms)
Hello. I never really thought I'd be reviewing a song which could have easily walked last week's Eurovision song contest.
Western Suburbs: The Borough of Western Suburbs
They may be slow workers, July 2001 being our last encounter with Western Suburbs but boy oh boy has it been worth the wait.
A year and half on from the first studio release of seven track CD "Stripes", five-piece Mojo Pin have developed a maturity and focus that sings out with real confidence.
The Common Redstarts: Killing Street
Edinburgh four piece The Common Redstarts have made a commendable effort with this release, their second single on Seeca Records.
The Bacchae @ Leeds Festival 2008
The Bacchae came onto the stage in costumes of various stripes. The band comprise Harriet Hyde doing vocals (a good line in slurred rock wastrel), Jockstrap Jim as the rock guitarist, Dave Vachon on bass and Rob The Fox playing the organ.
The New Amsterdams: Story Like a Scar
Story like a Scar opens with two undeniably perfect tracks defining the album genre as mellow folk. The New Amsterdams incorporate country-style instruments such as a harmonica, banjo and stand-up bass for a brilliant effect.
A Clean Incision is the official debut release from The Reverse. This North London based band formed in 2000, and have previously released one limited album and appeared on several compilations.
Quick refresh on Recess. This Recess is not the "grunge Recess" that has been reviewed a couple of times in the live section over the past month or so.
You've probably already got records in your collection that sound like this one, the thing is, you probably stole those records from your dad.
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 ...
Tonight our two opposing bands compliment each other well. Both believe in experimenting and trying diverse, intriguing methods of song writing, which is always nice to hear.
Screaming their way all the way from Japan, home of lock n loll, Electric Eel Shock are here for your daughter.
Shearwater's 4th album "Palo Santo" sees existing band member Jonathan Meiburg rise from the shadow of Okkervil River's Will Sheff and take full command of the songwriting and vocal duties with positive results.
Dean Roy Holmes - lead vocals + bass Chris Kipper Summers - lead guitar Bryan Bell - rhythm guitar Phil Rhodes - drums From Pudsey in Leeds, 45 Revolutions formed in 2003 and have already played the many respected venues in and around the Leeds area including The Cockpit, Joseph's Well, Rios in Bradford and The Dry Bar in Manchester.
I was disturbed when I received this CD through the post. Not by the cover or the content, but by what it said on the label stuck to it.
Tonight's entertainment was a mixed bag of punk, blues and prog, stoner doors stuff, which surprisingly went together well, though no band lit up the evening as something special.
It's impressive! - there have not been a straighter set of pub rock songs committed to record for a considerable time.
Warming up his vocals, one of The Blood Brothers' front men screams a few off shots into the mic and screeches his rendition of doing your scales into the mic.
I think every girl would secretly like to be a Donna. I mean, what teenager doesn't want to wear a pair of cowboy boots, some tight rhinestone-embellished jeans, plenty of beads and toss their suitably windswept and tousled beachy hair around their face and a stage for a good half hour or so?
The Hold Steady: Boys & Girls In America
From the opening chords that travel through heavy guitar and jangly piano riffs, this album feels like an old friend.
This Black Velvetine's latest release, the three track EP "Goodbye" reeks of all things sleaze, snot and debauched rock.
It may be taking one hell of a long time but there are slight signs Engerica may actually be making a dent in British rock.
"Heavy as John Prescott's Wallet" Progressive/alternative metal - you decide!!!!!
The Scaramanga Six: Are you one of the Family?
Save for the first twenty seconds of the opening and title track "Are you one of the Family?" (On their own Trinity Records label), an opening in which The Scaramanga Six have recorded some very strange effects, including explosions, I actually like this track.
The Scaramanga Six: Walking Through Houses
After both the songwriting and production genius that was 2007s LP tour de force "The Dance Of Death", a question that crossed my mind was where now for the Six, such was the magnificence of the LP?
Band Profile: Pulled Apart by Horses
Pulled Apart by Horses could be a sick torture method or the name of a new rock consortium from Leeds of west riding.
Elvis Perkins and backing band Dearland are the perfect band to get people in the mood for some folk.
The Blackout: The Blackout! The Blackout! The Blackout!
The Blackout have never claimed to be reinventing the wheel. Most of the criticism levelled at the valley boys are usually due to their lack of originality.
I was slightly nervy before reviewing this CD; the reason being that I'd heard a number of people comment adversely on it - at first I could see what they meant; but the more I've listened to it the more it has developed.
Steve Sanderson: Time and Tide EP
"And now something for our older listeners....", a phrase that probably puts the fear of god into most of our readers, and a phrase that could quite easily precede Steve Sanderson's adult orientated northern folk blues.
Avenged Sevenfold: Waking the Fallen
Three albums into their career and Orange County based 5 piece Avenged Sevenfold's fusion of Goth-punk and Metal has gained them a cult following which Waking the Fallen is sure to add to.
The Casanovas are an antipodean rock band, which should tell you something. Picture the big riffs (think ZZ Top), swagger vocals (Mick Jagger) and 80's rock drums.
Gweedo @ Woodkirk Valley Country Club
Openers tonight were DayDream, a three piece who are unashamedly proud of their Beatlesque influences.
The Stations: This Globe Can Be Upgraded
With catchy songs, bold lyrics and raw vocals The Stations' second EP stands firmly in the category of "New-wave Indie", (as opposed to "Shoegazeing", 90s-style Indie).
Glasgow three-piece 1990s release 'See you at the lights', their first single off their up and coming album 'Cookies', and it doesn't disappoint.
It would appear YSN are now just YSN, and if you didn't know what it stood for before you now never will.
Black Mountain College: Bright by the Sea
Having earned the prestigious title of 'Pick of the week' on C4 Teletext, Bright Mountain College arrive with a very nicely packaged CD, some epic songs and an ambitious, bold stance on things.
rock alternative
Its been twelve years since Californian based punk rockers AFI first decided to form a band in order to avoid to the real world, and they are finally being tipped to make that jump from underground to mainstream with their sixth album Sing the Sorrow.
Shakinouts: Time You Were Told
The debut single from Leeds four-piece Shakinouts is a bouncy indie pop number that sits very squarely within its genre.
These guys truly are caught in the middle - between carefully de-glamourized Streets-style urbanism on the one hand, and tightly coiled guitar rock on the other.
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.
Before we get stuck into the review I feel it's necessary to have a whinge. Stealthman were supposed to be playing tonight but unfortunately the landlord decided to be a prick and ban them from the venue due to them being under-age, after they had lugged all their gear in and sound checked.
Good old rock and roll that's what Vatican Jet dish out! Apparently standing in for Being 747, these lads did a great job!
Various Artists: Attack!!!! Issue 9
Every track on Attack!!!! 9 is inspired by a piece of Dutch prose published in the previous issue of the accompanying Attack!!!!
There appears to be quite a few bands called Seed, this one however are two brothers from Leeds. Their brand of safe pop-rock is well produced and performed but lacks any real ingenuity.
It's a wet Monday night in Leeds and the Swedes are here to rock us, alright! As steam rises off the unfortunates who have queued in the misery outside, winter blues are quickly vanished by the arrival of punk rockers Sahara Hotnights.
funk rock
Graham Coxon @ Leeds Festival 2004
Soulwax are the evil, broodier incarnation of 2manydj's. But like their funk soul brother, they take their chosen rock template and run with it.
One of the most underrated acts to emerge from the same Scottish scene as the likes of Idlewild and (obviously early) Snow Patrol, Seafood, through no fault of their own have just never caught on to the mainstream in a way that their combined talents have always merited.
Having supported Laika Dog and with an upcoming show sharing the stage with Forward Russia, Indigo Skins could be going places.
Joseph's Well saw a storming gig on Saturday night as everyone is treated to four top bands, a brilliant atmosphere, a full venue and plenty of beer.
Modey Lemon: Thunder + Lightning
Garage rock duo/trio Modey Lemon burst out of Pittsburgh to not only kick out the jams but to actually boot those jams firmly in their jammy balls.
Stateless are: Jimi Sturdy, drums & piano, Chris James, vocals & guitar, and Jon Taylor, ex-Duran Duran, on bass & vocals.
'No Association' is urgent, hardcore-influenced rock that builds to a passionate tumult of sweeping guitars and strings.
The first instalment in what was to be another very memorable night. 10,000 Things arrived with a nice solid bass, wild guitar sounds, decent vocals, a sharp percussionist and some disappointing drums, but left me feeling somewhat thwarted by a distinct lack of thought.
For any regulars on the Leeds music scene, the Cellars has always and will always hold a very special fondness in our hearts.
Loqui: I Can't Believe It's Not Better
An ostentatious biography package accompanies this 'Greatest Hits' compilation from Loqui, which also encompasses their life as Vertigo Green.
Mama Scuba @ Royal Park Cellars
Tonight is advertised as a "Leeds 6 Alternative Music Extravaganza" and by heck did promoters Panama get it right, for tonight they have booked perhaps the best three alternative bands I have seen in a long time, all local bands, all doing the city of Leeds proud, and as Steve Kind (Panama) put it when he introduced the headliners Mama Scuba, "I've been wanting to book this band for two years now" - it was well worth the wait!
I was really dubious about this album at first, I mean, just how many singing frontman (or woman) bassists do you know?
I like my music to be snarling, intense. I love my guitar wretched and spiky. I love pit bull style, bite yer arse, spitty vocals.
Newly signed to Energy Records and about to sign off the live scene after several years' hard work to concentrate on recordings, Bodixa hit us with some intense feedback.
10,000 Things @ Brudenell Social Club
Time for the three kings to return to their kingdom, time for a superb local act to grab some of the glory and have some for themselves.
Echodine: Fragments from the Wilderness
Bump. A packet lands on the floor. Great! More music to Osmosise. Echodine? Aww man, is this one of those, "one man and his bleep machine" affairs?
The Vessels (London): Don't waste your time
It always strikes me as funny as some bands find fame, fortune and celebrity girlfriend's easy to come by whilst others who provide music in a similar style and of equally, maybe greater, quality are only given recognition in the pages of magazines who employ journalists who actually know what they're on about rather than coke heads who want to look and sound cool, but invariably just sound like cocks.
The Horrors: She Is The New Thing
"It's weird, because when we do gigs we just set out to play our songs and not annoy or wind up anyone - but we often cause loads of trouble in the process" says keyboard player Rhys 'Spider' Webb.
Tonight's openers, Leeds three-piece Kenosha, are named after the place where Happy Days was filmed. This All-American influence has clearly permeated their musical influences as well, with their sound highly reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age at their "Rated R" peak.
Why aren't Cope playing live more often in Leeds - or have I been missing something? This CD is pretty good you know, with an almost retro/indie rock feel to it.
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.
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.
Having already released this track once, Elektrons are throwing it out again to precede their debut album 'Red Light Don't Stop' which hits the stores the first week in August.
The Koreans are a divided bunch. Their sound is an attempted amalgamation of sensible guitar rock and Kasabian style electronica.
Tokyo Police Club: Elephant Shell
After reviewing 'Tessellate' a few weeks back, I was very much looking forward to 'Elephant Shell' hitting the shelves.
Dan MoFo quotes "Our style has been described as very laidback and completely fresh and original". To whoever said this I must disagree.
Enter Shikari: Sorry You're Not a Winner
Metal guitars blended with euphoric dance lines? Surely this must be some sort of mistake, or possibly a mix from the Belgian brothers: 2 Many DJs possibly?
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.
"The female REM". No matter what I read, in either local or national papers, I cannot avoid seeing the wonder that is Leeds' Bodixa being described as a female version of REM.
On an evening as hot as this, being stuck in a bustling gig is not a hugely appealing prospect. Passing out from over-heating - which, as soon as you walk in to the Cockpit, does seem likely or even perhaps inevitable - really doesn't strike me as much fun either, but this gig is certainly one worth suffering for.
According to their press release, the three members of Seed are only 16. Blimey. At such a young age, it's fair to say that they have plenty of potential.
The Psychedelic Breakfast: Untitled
Based in Newcastle, the Psychedelic Breakfast are wisely attempting to spread their wings outside their native city.
Leatherhead are an alternative rock 3-piece from Leeds.
For most bands, The Packhorse can be a difficult venue to play. There's no rise or platform, eliminating all majesty of "taking the stage", it's like walking to the other side of your living room.
Milf have advanced a lot since I first heard an early demo of theirs. The ear for melody and driving guitars which was evident back then has stuck with them and has developed into a rather appealing wall of sound.
This band will be big. When trawling through the thriving yet generally unimaginative Leeds scene, dominated as it is by generic pop-punk and the occasional 'innovative' ska movement, it's a relief to chance upon something a bit different.
The Sunshine Underground @ The Vine
The Printed Sound began proceedings on Friday night at The Vine, following their inclusion into the first Leeds HMV Showcase.
As the sun overhead blazes down over Leeds, most people either sit outside basking in the mid twenties sunshine or fiddle with their badly burned meat on their barbecues rather than venturing out to the local venues.
Great my car is playing up, just in time for a drive to Leeds! I finally arrive at the Well to catch the last half of Shallowend's set.
Canada seems to be producing some great bands of late with many beginning to enjoy worldwide acclaim, perhaps it's time The Dears got a piece of the action?
The debut single from Kaiser Chiefs is quintessentially British guitar pop. And loveably so. Keys - in whatever form - are prominent from the off, introduced via the almost single fingered tinkering of the intro, and at around 3 minutes in there's an "A Day In The Life" like moment, where all parties, including, paradoxically, quietly-screamed vocals, get to build up the sound before heading into a chorus repeat and then fade.
Nick Copland - vocals, keyboards, shouting and hitting stuff, Paul Farago - bass, trousers, Simon Wood - keyboards, trombone, knob-twiddling.
The Go! Team: Grip Like A Vice
Since bursting onto the scene in 2004 with Mercury Prize nominated debut album 'Thunder Lightning Strike', The Go!
It was always going to be a little bit special. Buzz. Anticipation. Electric atmosphere. One song. Could have been twenty.
After an interminable wait, a severely depleted Melaton grace the stage. The lead singer informs us that traffic made them late and half the band are still stuck in it, so they will attempt a shortened set with him and the bass player.
Amongst their list of influences Slice cite RHCP and Jurassic 5, and with this in mind they proudly wear their heart on their sleeve; their sound is a confident and expert blend of Funk Rock and Hip-Hop, though thankfully with their own accents not fake American ones.
A few weeks ago I teased Kez, lead singer with local band Albeit, after they secured a support slot with Scottish rockers Idlewild at Bradford University.
d-koy have hair that has not been seen since Hundred Reasons first graced the stage all those years ago.
Last Night's TV: Daylight Between The Blades
After an initial listen to this CD I'm struggling to make myself listen to it again. I kind of want to prove myself wrong that it wasn't as bad as I thought first time round, but it does take me a while before I force myself to slide it in the CD tray again.
Originally scheduled for late 2006, you could say The Electric Cinema's self-titled debut album has been a long time coming.
Gamma Ray Sam: A Short Course in Long Term Happiness
I'd be surprised if the irony in the title of this album was lost on anyone who listened to it. As per usual the PR pamphlet that came along with said album tells me that it is 'highly acclaimed'.
Having deleted all-conquering debut single 'Crazy' after a mere nine weeks at number one, Messers Mouse and Green, poised as they were on the brink of a Bryan Adams/Wet Wet Wet-style public hanging, surely now deserve an honorary knighthood or a Buckingham Palace garden party invite at the very least.
Jesse Malin: Glitter In the Gutter
After owning 'The Heat' for some time now, I was really excited about the upcoming album from New York's Jesse Malin.
First of all this gig is criminally under attended, because all three bands are really good. Beards are a three piece who come on stage dressed head to toe in what look like nu-rave garden gnome outfits.
Blah Blah Tin: The Interesting Inept Music Thing
Home produced and bearing all the hall marks of it Blah Blah Tin are not here to trouble the charts, but instead to do exactly as they please with a drum machine, synth, dirty guitar and big collection of records by The Fall.
The Smokestacks @ Cockpit (acoustic bar)
Mary Wanna Smile were a very solid, straight-forward rock band, performing some well crafted acoustic ditties.
London trio Plastik are straight down the middle Indie pop-rock merchants, unfazed by scratchy angular scenes that no doubt surround them and standing tall on the back of well written tunes rather than the right look.
I arrive at the Cockpit just in time to see openers Captain take to the stage. They go on to set the tone of the evening with their shimmering, often delicate indie pop music.
The Lab: One is a collection of ten tracks by ten artists all orbiting the indie and folk genres. Despite the genre correlations, each track has its own unique sound, making for a constantly surprising compilation.
Somehow while living the rock 'n' roll lifestyle Red.Star.Line managed to find the time to whip up a whole album.
Various Artists: Chickenhawk / I Breathe Spears / With Scissors - split EP
Leeds dysfunctional time signature merchants Chickenhawk open this split EP in style with Perpeptucoh parts i-iii and part iv.
Listening back to Beasts' original demo recording - released in April last year - it' amazing to note how much a band can achieve in just a few months.
God Damn Whores' Jon Poole appears wearing a red square painted over his right eye that proceeds to run down his cheek (resembling blood) These guys must surely be in this for a laugh.
It's difficult to see where Pendulum get their rock-dance crossover act credentials from, but as an accessible drum and bass act, Pendulum are the best.
Right from the get-go, Fuji Heavy's crazy Garage-Space-Punk fires a rifftastic rocket straight up your arse.
I missed the first couple of songs by Low's support act, My Latest Novel, due to a half hour frantic search for my ticket.
Dashboard Confessional: Don't Wait
Acoustic-emo superstars Dashboard Confessional are back after two years of writing and recording the follow up to the 2003's million selling "A Mark, A Mission, A Brand, A Scar".
Garon Shark are a young rock'n'roll four-piece from Huddersfield (what is it with that town?) I'm very impressed with their three-track offering, which suggests a band influenced by a variety of rock bands and styles and showcases an ability to write some excellent songs yet leaving enough room for improvement (without it being an insult to say so).
More of a commercial sound than the last CD, which is noticeable from the outset. Whilst I have to admit I liked the kinda raw feel of "Too little Too Late" this could be a step into the right direction for the band.
The evening kicks off with MOJO PIN, a young band who I have not heard before. I was suitably impressed for a first hearing (normally I prefer to hear bands at least once before I review them); although the vocals were a little soft in parts and definition to the words would be an asset, especially when announcing songs.
The Wind-up Birds: My Life Was Ruined By The Wind-Up Birds
"Warning signal, warning sign, put these thoughts out of your mind" are the first words that you are greeted with when listening to The Wind-up Birds' new EP and they will be same words that you'll spend the next week singing to yourself whether you like it or not.
Spear of Destiny @ Joseph's Well
About 10 minutes before Catylyst were due on stage, I was asked by a certain gentleman if I'd review tonight's proceedings.
It's just like any other Saturday night. You're having a good ol' laugh with your mates down at the tin.
After seeing this band live for the first time earlier on in the year, I just had to listen to their EP as soon as it was made just to see if these Bradford psychedelic punk-ish rockers live up to their live performance in the studio.
Sound Asleep @ Woodkirk Valley Country Club
CUTOUT HERO This three-piece were the first band of the day that I saw as I was late. Playing a mellow sort of rock/punk with even a little bit of ska thrown in every now and then, they sounded pretty good for their age, and were reasonably well rehearsed.
Rilo Kiley: Under The Blacklight
July 2nd 2007: Rilo Kiley's latest single 'The Moneymaker' hits the internet, and all hell breaks loose; it's like the indie apocalypse - who knew fans of America's cutest band could be quite so vicious?
Electric Soft Parade @ Cockpit
Actress Hands have just released a split with the headlining band, having just toured with their fellow Brighton and Metway studio regulars British Sea Power.
punk rock
I'm not sure what is a more common occurrence these days: Lads hitting the town and getting tanked or indie kids staying home writing songs about the lads on the town getting tanked.
When the Britpop phenomenon began to die, a drunken conversation at the Good Mixer in the over-hyped Camden Town resulted in the legendary birth of Britrock; a few bands were located for championing in the NME and a few more emerged from the woodwork.
FutureSound 2000 starts up at the Rocket Venue, and its immediately obvious from the amazing talent on show in the three bands battling it out tonight that the judges will be a difficult situation to decide which are the top six, the ones who will go through to the Leeds Carling Weekend Festival.
It should be said upfront that emo, or post-hardcore, or any style of rock that may come close to verging on those descriptions is not usually my forte.
Popup: Chinese Burn / Stagecoach
A positively energetic guitar-laden introduction on 'Chinese Burn' paves the way for yet another popup piece of pure [expletive-ridden] brilliance.
Poor Pifco. Unfortunately for them, the organisers of tonight's event, Tiny Cat, haven't realised that for those living outside of the city centre the cutoff point is basically about 11pm.
The duo of Rodrigo Y Gabriela have wowed crowds at Glastonbury and Womad with their amazing guitar skills.
I'm BAFFLED. Totally and utterly baffled. Let me explain. My Northern Edge's first demo has 4 songs on it.
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.
The Brute Chorus: She Was Always Cool
This is the third single from The Brute Chorus; scores of fans are greeted by this song commencing every gig.
Super Furry Animals @ Leeds Festival 2004
The Super Furries always have to take it one stage further. Not content with having a bombproof techo tank at Reading in the late 90's, their dressing up escapades have reached a new height.
Jeepster look uncomfortable. Their Noel Gallagher-style rock ballads are underpinned by some nice piano and Hammond organ, but like a potato sandwich, they also lack intrigue.
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.
When faced with the prospect of the unknown I was hesitant on how I would find this album, having no experience of Alabama 3 I had no idea what to expect.
Various Artists: Across The Pennines IV
Another ATP compilation hits the doormat and, with it comes another predictably unpredictable clutch of northern sparkle.
If theatre was the chosen style then Loqui came right out and did it properly. Their cast of oddballs was choreographed around Rob Chapman (trombone, vocals and ego) and their music swirled, raced and bewitched.
The tongue twisting M83 are named after a Spiral Galaxy in a star-system far, far away. Now on their third album, they sound as grandiose as their inter-galactic moniker, merging rock, dance, instrumental mayhem and anything else they can find in the cosmic bargain bin.
The Music: You Might As Well Try To Fuck Me EP
"You Might As Well Try To Fuck Me" is the debut release from Leeds' The Music on the Hut label, and, put bluntly, is a blinding tune.
Cancer Bats: Birthing the Giant
Canada has given us some damn fine music over the years, especially it seems, in recent times. From Billy Talent to Alexisonfire right through to er...
With a badly scribbled post-it note as an inlay Pigzipper introduce themselves with little decorum. The same impatience with which they hastily prepared for a review seems to have also influenced the giddy desire to fill out this 10 song album with everything they have ever committed to tape...
Pretty middle of the road, harping back to 90's indie drawl here folks. It's not altogether that bad, I suppose.
Levellers @ St George's Hall (Bradford)
3 Daft Monkeys are a three-piece made up of a female violin player / vocalist (Athene Roberts), electric bass player Jamie Waters and male vocalist / 12 string acoustic guitarist Tim Ashton, who also plays a kick drum and occasionally adds whistle to what their website calls a "colourful carnival of sound".
Built By Snow are the type of band who name-check Pacman in their lyrics, and stuff their songs full of oldschool gaming sound effects.
Ping Pong Bitches: Roc Ya Body
Ping Pong Bitches' forthcoming single 'Roc Ya Body' sounds like Goldfrapp, X Ray Specs and Karen O locked Girls Aloud in a dungeon and beat the crap out of the pop tarts then turned it into a record about wanting to shag teenage boys.
The 45s - now there's a name I don't think we'll be hearing the last of. Impressive at times (though I still think there's a lot to work on) pinpointing the influence in their style has proved difficult; though Britpop is a starter for ten.
Towers Of London: Blood Sweat and Towers
Or "the dangers of setting your stall too high" as this album should possibly be called. Don't get me wrong, this is still a good album.
The Holiday Plan: The Wasting Time EP
The amount of shouty, disjointed emo grows bigger by the day, and it ain't about to die down any time soon.
Gold Chains: Young Miss America
'Post Punk', 'Avant-garde Rap', 'Punk - Hop', these are just a few of the descriptions given to Gold Chains musical style.
Sometimes I hate writing reviews. I got into it because I love writing and love music. But sometimes you have to review something that you really don't enjoy and it's horrible because it's no fun slagging off bands that put their heart and soul into their music.
Tonight's gig at the increasingly popular Rocket venue again showed the diversity of talent playing in Leeds at present.
Yet another cosmopolitan line-up, yet another eclectic yet highly accomplished night of music. This job certainly ain't getting any harder.
Smilex are from Oxford. They're inventive and spirited and should do a fizzing stir-fry of set at the Royal Park Cellars when they come to Leeds on November 1st.
Decoy sit musically in a category that is most definitely not indie; probably more rock, with a tendency and concentration towards creating a guitar ambience.
Clone, dressed in their shades, have an uneasy obsession with writing songs about the stars and planets.
Bright Young Things 2008: the 15 successful bands are revealed
Following an intense two-day judging process, the fifteen successful acts for Bright Young Things 2008 have been announced today.
Chichino: It Could Happen To You
Pop, soul, jazz, funk. Chichino are inspired by all areas of music, and it's paying off. Having played all over the UK, London, Manchester, Newcastle, and of course Leeds, gracing the airwaves of various radio stations across the land and supporting the likes of success story The View, this is the next song from the funk-a-riffic group.
The Killers are from Las Vegas - that place where celebrities go to get fat, legendary and dead. This in itself should be enough to make you want to go see them but if you want more encouragement there's the fact that they have a battery of fantastic, up-tempo, future indie-disco classics and more on-stage charisma than Timberlake, Connery and Elvis combined - and trust me, that's damn charismatic.
I came over to Josephs Well with good thoughts about both bands, Facelift and The Alpine Movement, as I had seen both before but through sub standard PA systems.
Unexploded Shells: Made In The Same City As You
It's been a lean time for music lately. I've been impressed by stuff, but hardly bowled over at the same time.
Fran Rodgers @ Royal Park Cellars
Ok, here's the bottom line - Fran Rodgers has a beautiful voice. Not just a good voice or an unusual voice, but an actual spine-tingling, tear-jerking voice.
The Charlatans @ Leeds Festival 1999
Well the year goes fast doesn't it? Another year and yet another festival at Leeds' Temple Newsam Park and yet again this is another one that we all enjoyed.