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Stars Of Track & Field: Not Here To Shop
Having spent the last three years in Carlisle (at University) I watched the development of a local band by the name of Stars Of Track & Field.
Band Profile: The Bluefoot Project
The Bluefoot Project are an amalgamation of urban heads fusing many different styles into a vocal-led, beat-driven, 21st century soulful funk with nods in the right direction to reggae, hip hop, gospel and leftfield.
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.
The Fencott Disaster: Rome and Step On It
Four-track EP from these boys - 4 songs of NY garage influenced post punk, not a bad effort, some of the guitar work is quite interesting with the dual lead thing going on and with the bass rumbling away in the back makes for an ok listen.
The Pipers: Medicine Cabinet EP
Imagine, if you will, The Spin Doctors meet Pavement with Ray Lamontage as the lead singer. That's what we have here with this fantastic EP from The Pipers.
La Russo's "fourletterword" starts with a big surge of rising chords and ringing guitar. The song itself is an open, yearning melody.
This latest release from Mud Hut new boys Mondo, left me wondering if there was more to this band than meets the eye.
New York based singer-songwriter Ian Love has created a pleasant debut album, but it doesn't quite hit the mark.
I was fortunate to see Superelectric in action at the Circuit tour a few weeks ago, so knew exactly what to expect from their demo.
The CD from Spring was quite a mixed bag because there were 10 tracks on here. The 1st track, "Not At The Same Time", was a blast from the past because at the start I half expected Mick Jagger to come out dancing!
The Japanaro line-up has changed since they recorded their four-track EP last year, boasting a new sound and a new vocalist.
There are two songs on their debut single, lead track Factor 8 and additional song Spinning. With all records, there is always a song that you prefer over another.
This 4 track EP released on Loog Records centres around "We can never say goodbye" which is taken from the band's recent album "Statues".
Sam and Anna hail from the band "Crash Ride", and are the envy of most musicians, being able to play at this standard and still in their teens.
Joan As Police Woman: Eternal Flame
Joan 'As Police Woman' Wasser has plenty of experience both in the studio and live by working with such acts as Nick Cave, Anthony and the Johnsons and Elton John.
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.
Alternative. Alternative is a term used so often today that it begins to lose all meaning, but when I came across this track it was like it had become crystal, because that's exactly what this Leeds 6-piece are. It becomes clear that this isn't a band that just get together, knock out a few riffs and 'slap' a vocal on top.
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.
Obsessive Compulsive: Crash EP
I was looking forward to listening to this CD, because it had a female vocalist, and I just love listening to bands with female vocalists and this was no exception.
Imagine going to a gig and getting given a CD to review. Well that's what happened with this CD by Seven Hours.
Two tracks of melodic punk from ex-members of 46 Itchy. Thankfully the band have forgotten about their cheeky ska past and graced us with 2 smashing tracks of hook laden melodic punk raawk.
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.
Thai Bride: Non Contact Sports
Judging them on this release Thai Bride are a bloke's band. Not that they play blokes music as such, it's just that they sing about bloke's things.
The first thing I notice about this track is that it has the same name as a great Feeder album track.
"Stop The Clock" introduces us to Blind Jackson with a whiny little guitar riff that intermittently returns.
Right from the word go, you can tell that Zealous are a force to be reckoned with. They describe themselves as "Modern rock with a dynamic twist", and yes, the modern rock part of the statement statement is just about true but the "dynamic twist" I'm not too sure about though.
The impact is immediate. As soon as you hear Brooke Dundas' voice you know this girl is something special.
Sister Morphine: Sister Morphine EP
This four piece, hailing from Bristol, although new on the scene are no fledglings. Currently touring with Kasabian, it is clear to see why there is such a growing interest in this energy fuelled band.
The Delgados: All You Need Is Hate
"Hate is everywhere, inside your mother's heart you will find it there." Cheery bunch the delgados. Much like Warren Zevon, the downbeat lyrics are countered by a bright and chirpy, melodic party, the kind where you feel all are welcome to sing and clap along.
Two things immediately spring out on the three-track demo CD from four-piece "atmospheric rockers" Lunar Camels.
Pete's Sake: If that's what you really want
CD single from this Welsh 4-piece, pretty straight up SoCal sounding pop punk. Complete with American accent.
"Five men, a large number of instruments" proclaims the press release accompanying Xi's latest magnum opus, the three track EP "Low".
Lapdog's second EP comes after their sold out "Now It Can Be Told" debut and has been achieving some recognition for the band since the launch in November.
A funky four minutes of cool and sophisticated pop that trips along a groove whilst Miss Winehouse flexes her vocal muscles with sass and soul.
Milf are a three-piece Bradford band and have been plying their trade for over 4 years now, since they were 14, and bring us a truly fantastic four-track EP.
This CD has a five star production on some uncertain material. There's a terrific sound to it, recorded as it is in a "purpose built studio" (what other sorts are there?).
This three-track promo CDR is awesome. No really. I didn't understand it at first but once my wife had taken over and proclaimed how much she loved the record after just one listen, I had to work out what it was that I had missed...
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".
The Dance To The Radio stable this week wheeled out their latest offering in the form of Voltage Union, and with such stable-mates as Forward Russia and The Pigeon Detectives I was excited and eager to sample the label's latest release.
The Polyphonic Spree: Light and Day
Welcome to the 00's where image and gimmicks are everything and then you can tag some music on if you fancy.
Geekgirl: May Contain Traces Of Boy
From Manchester comes the three piece band Geekgirl. A punk-rock-pop cross breed with numerous riffs and madcap grooves.
Oh, dear, they used to be rather good. I had to force myself to read the script that came with this album.
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.
I'm going to cut pretty quickly to the chase, this debut album is pretty shocking. Or should I say becomes pretty shocking as after then first few bars I really thought I was in for a treat.
As names for bands go, Test-Icicles must be the most absurd I have heard this year. A close second though is DanMoFo.
There's a scratchy fizzed up modemic start on the black notes of a Yamaha PS something or other. Then a breathily credible vocal track.
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.
Smog: A River Ain't Too Much to Love
Minus his infamous brackets, Bill Callahan comes strolling back into town, with his only weapon an acoustic guitar.
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.
Fightstar: One Day Son, This Will All Be Yours
On the initial listen to this album it doesn't seem to be the album that this band are capable of. Starter song '99' does nothing to move this band along in anyone's opinion whether good or bad, and the standout songs initially are track five 'death car' and track ten 'Tannhauser', simply for the bruising head bashing riffs.
In recent years, so many Bradford bands have passed through without a mention, by not living up to the hype that has been set by their peers.
A Day Left: The pseudo post neo modern avante bassment garden rock EP
Two spelling mistakes in a pisstake title that takes no piss is not a good start. A sound check drum intro to a trying-hard-to-impress first track takes things down another notch.
King Creosote: Home in a Sentence
Upon uploading this CD to my iTunes library I was bemused to see the track entitled as 'The Track of My Tears' by 'Jimmie's Chicken Shack'.
Receiving an EP from a band that lists influences ranging from Radiohead to Jeff Buckley to Nirvana, I had no idea what would greet me when I started listening.
Farming Incident: What can you do with a pig's head and sheep's brains?
Farming Incident are disturbing. Their three track CD demo is not only titled "What can you do with a pig's head and sheep's brains?", a title to get any decent human being worried about what they are about to encounter, but their opening track Rostov begins with the lyrics "When I was a boy, My father used to give me cigarettes, Then beat me up for smoking, When I was a boy, I used to torture my pets".
Band Profile: The Resplendents
pop soul funk
Sounding like five tracks fresh from the rehearsal rooms this demo announces another exciting project from Kevin McGonnel of And None of Them Knew They Were Robots.
Serena-Maneesh provide the latest update in the Scandinavian invasion of British-branded indie. However, unlike fellow countrymen the Knife and Love Is All, Serena-Maneesh are far less experimental and sound far more familiar to British ears.
Possible contender for the most innovative songs of the year, Imogen Heap's first single off her new album "Speak for Yourself" is possibly known among many hip, cool and trendy teens as the background music to the last episode of The OC.
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).
Very rough and raw sounding (we even get a little laugh left in the vocal track) this a Dylan-esque little ditty that's verses are stronger than it's chorus.
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.
I went to The Vine once in hope to see these guys play but unfortunately when I arrived they had finished and I was treated to this God-awful electro band - but finally I am happy to hear some of Vatican Jet's material.
And None Of Them Knew They Were Robots: ANOTKTWR
It's always a surprise when something you happen to pick up because of the attraction of the band's name alone, turns out to be rather good.
"Lonely" imbeds itself in my head immediately. Unfortunately it's because it has the worst guitar lick ever.
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 Blueskins to re-release their "Change My Mind" single
The Blueskins' "Change My Mind" will be re-released by Domino on 16th October. The track, which features on the band's debut album, "Word Of Mouth", has become an indie club hit since it was used on the recent Lynx advert.
Sticking close to the original version by Massive Attack, this cover of the 1998 hit has Faulkner performing impressive percussive moves.
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.
Little Japanese Toy: Disused No 5
Well, first thing's first: Little Japanese Toy score a whopping 0/10 for presentation. The demo consists of a hastily scribbled on, almost unreadable CD-R.
On awaiting 'No Roots' I heard a rumour that it was a political album. This had me slightly worried as I believe music made with a political agenda often sounds awkward, forced, and artificial, although, I admit there are exceptions.
I wasn't sure if it was because I'd just seen the picture that came in the CD sleeve that I thought this music sounded really sexy.
Carietta White: No More Regrets EP
Leeds-based Carietta White's debut record offers an interesting example of a band who have undoubted talent, but are perhaps not playing to their strengths.
Superface to release "State Your Business" on the GLP label
"State Your Business" is the brand new EP from alternative rock / pop band Superface, released on the GLP label (Groove Laboratory Productions).
Dead At 27: Scatter the Shrapnel
"Scatter the Shrapnel" is the second EP from this Halifax based band and featuring a wah guitar heavy, punked up version of the Grange Hill theme tune, this is a band who aren't as morbid as their name suggests.
I like this CD. Very much. Reviewing acoustic bands is not really my strong point, but this CD just shouts out "play me, play me".
For a while now I've been searching for something fresh and new to add to my heavier collection, but at the same time something that still clings to the roots of the legendary bands that I grew up with - thank god for Dialog.
How exactly do you "draw" silence then? Do you sit down with a crayon and a piece of paper next the National Institute for the Mute and wait for something non-vocal to grab your artistic muse?
It's true what they say about first impressions, they do. Last that is. I first heard Strike Anywhere during our yearly pilgrimage to Newquay and shit, it was like a smack in the mouth (well I suppose it wasn't like a smack in the mouth as that would be less than pleasant, but you know what I mean).
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.
Hybrid Kid are a project emanating from fair London town. They quote some pretty impressive influences and are refreshingly for once, are not far of the mark.
Six By Seven: Ready For You Now
This is a right good conventional guitar/keyboards band doing a proper pop song with all the right ingredients and no artificial colouring.
White Denim: Shake Shake Shake
Reviewing 'Shake Shake Shake' has allowed me to listen to Texan trio White Denim for the very first time.
Brent Palmer: Boomerang Shoes EP
Hot on the heels of Jeff Klein we have another export from Austin Texas. Brent Palmer looks a little more clean cut and a little less rock and roll than his neighbour and his image suits his music.
It's not often that I listen to a review CD as many times as this. Unyson's six track "Science Fiction" has some right good songs, played and sung with style and conviction.
The Glitterati: Do you love yourself?
Poptones is steadily building up a healthy roster of artists with a fair range of diversity. From Martin Carr's Brave Captain to Cosmic Rough Riders via The Bellrays.
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.
Invention Of Hands: Consider Yourself Denied EP
The first thing I noticed was the high standard of the artwork & packaging, which would not look at all out of place in the racks at HMV; however, the CD itself is plain and detracts from the overall appearance.
Over the years all-woman bands and rock haven't always gone well together. They've either been too poppy and flowery like the Bangles or they go over the top like L7, but almost always forgettable.
Parisman: Responsible for Everything EP
Parisman's "Responsible for Everything" EP starts in a blaze of unabashed Geetar Rock-disco synthesiser fusion.
This debut album opens up strongly with 'My Declaration', gentle piano and lightly strummed guitar ease us in as Baxter's husky whisper croons away.
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.
This is a good CD. I'm told nothing about the band before I slot the disc in my machine, just a pretty piss poor name and a green CD/r.
Rob Nichols has become a familiar face in Leeds of late after regular performances in the city, and he recently reached the final of the BBC's ReCovered competition with his acoustic take on Joy Division's Love Will Tear Us Apart.
The:Hair are a Leeds Music Scene enigma, on record they've been cut to shreds (admittedly on demo reviews from a couple of years back) yet the write-ups of their live shows are consistently positive, occasionally bordering on the euphoric.
Leeds' own The Dharma (formerly know as Unyson) display a buried love of Freedom Rock on this 3 track demo, that's big choruses, hands in the air and the wind in your hair.
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.
Upon the first listen to this EP I would have sworn I was listening to a group of twee American rockers, however these lads are from Essex!
Rhode Island all come from Leeds. You will never have heard of them. This is because their current CD goes under a different guise.
There are a few things you should know about this EP before we get started. Here's basically a run down of the few major facts that led to this EP being recorded by Sigur Rós.
Blank Space: My Day with the Astronauts
The opening track to this impressive CD is a polite mellow number with country tendencies. Mainly acoustic guitar and piano with beautiful vocal harmonies and subtle use of percussion, this track shows the talent of the singer songwriter, Alex Dew.
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.
four day Hombre: The First Word is the Hardest
Perfect pop. Just what daytime radio should be playing all the time. Three accomplished tracks on one CD with style, passion, ingenuity and wit.
'No Association' is urgent, hardcore-influenced rock that builds to a passionate tumult of sweeping guitars and strings.
Sheffield's Dead Like Harry are a six piece with a strong folk influence. The press release that accompanies this CD bemoans the invasion of Pop Idol and the like upon our ears.
These 4 lads hail from Huddersfield, and are fairly embryonic as they formed in 2006. The time spent since has been put to productive use under the watchful eye of producer Steve Whitfield, resulting in this 3 track offering.
Ah the theremin. Not since 'Good Vibrations' have I heard such magnificent use of the instrument. Opening track on this four track EP, and aptly enough the title track, 'Dandelion' thumps along with its array of kitsch 1960s instruments, its sleazy guitar riff and its myriad of churning organs, booming drums and a vocalist that sounds suspiciously like Jason Pierce.
As summer goes into slow-dissolve Bodixa bring us their first CD and an opening track called 'Goodbye Winter'.
Last Night's TV: Too Much in Doubt
Last Night's TV bring us their 14 track album of laid-back chilled tunes. Mostly a progression on the acoustic material from their previous EP.
Making notes as I listen to Mojo Pin for the first time I can feel the internal on/off switch clicking at regular intervals.
Mumm-Ra: These Things Move in Threes
I tend to be a little wary of bands like Mumm-Ra, who take up instruments with the sole purpose of being in a band to pass the time - something all the members of this group admit to.
Barnsley trio Mynas offer up three tracks of melodic, easy-on-the-ears indie with just enough undemanding hooks to make for enjoyable listening.
The album version of this track has been spiced up with drums, the tempo upped and tinkered with to make it more 'radio friendly' but fortunately that doesn't interfere with the heart of this song.
When listening to singer/songwriter Pete McGann, it's clear that he doesn't want to be pigeonholed into any particular genre.
"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.
Named after a character in a Kafka story who awakes to find himself transformed into a beetle, Samsa exude that pyrotechnic self doubt that Radiohead have as good as taken as their own.
Newton Faulkner: Dream Catch Me
"Every time I close my eyes, it's you". The opening few words of Newton Faulkner's new single are quite mysterious.
Instant Species: The Take Away EP
If I had my own way, Instant Species would write all of their songs in the style of the third track on their latest CD, "The Take Away EP".
In the first fifty seconds of joyous simplicity, Micawba burst through all the barriers. "In all her dresses" is a shimmering song in a performance to put alongside "There she Goes" by the Las.
Seismic Loveshift: Any Old Price
"sei'smic love'shift (n.) - geological earth movement akin to orgasm commonly occuring in West Yorkshire, created by the tumultuous confluence of crisp drumming, melodic bass, clean guitar and vocal mellifluence performing some of the most thoughtful, inspiring and haunting music of the twenty-first century" - SL.
Vessels: Two Words & A Gesture
Shoegaze and experimental music can be quite hit-and-miss. Some would probably argue, with more than just slight condescension, it's more often miss; but then it's these factions that miss out on some of the more interesting artistic visions on the music scene.
BigBlu have a talent for melody. Their music is simple, evocative, tuneful and very radio-friendly. The mood is wistful and yearning.
Ok, so it's a given, some bands are live bands that can put on a prolific show, but can't quite cut it when it comes to knuckling down and making a good record , whereas there are some, that are bland on stage, yet can come up with the goods for the listeners.
This second offering from York-based alt-rock outfit Heroic Trio, the follow-up to last year's Driveby EP, is a decidedly mixed affair.
This is the third album from Jeff Klein, a New Yorker relocated to Austin, Texas. It opens with the title track, with lullaby acoustic guitars and some truly beautiful, sparse, throbbing slide guitar.
Oh God here we go again. Haven't we reached our quota of tawdry predictable Coldplay tribute acts yet...
This is an honest, brave and at times naive collection from the ambitious Mr Denby, an acoustic saunter through 10 tracks of heartfelt angst.
Apart from having a similar name to Hundred Reasons, there isn't much you can say about this band. As I listen to the opening track, I get the feeling the song isn't going anywhere.
The Maple State: We Swear by the Light Life
Shuffling in on a drum pattern begging to be sampled, the first few seconds of the song potentially herald an interesting listen.
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.
The Scaramanga Six: The Continuing Saga Of
Whatever they might get up to in Huddersfield, The Scaramanga Six are pretty big in the large city of Leeds.
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.
It may seem an odd follow up for Trash Aesthetics, the label that opened the eyes of the world to Bloc Party and The Rakes, to take a gamble with some country music but that's exactly what they've done.
This sounds a bit like acoustic-folk versions of stadium rock songs. Fat choruses sit amongst some delicate arrangements of piano and guitar.
So how does this work? Out of nowhere, a lo-fi, home recorded CD goes on the stereo after a hard day.
I bet Thee Virus House really get annoyed all the time with people printing their name The Virus House, because yes that wasn't a spelling mistake or typo, they are Thee Virus House.
Helica's demo is quite impressive. Soft guitars, rock songs with melodies, subtle drums and a gorgeous female voice.
According to pretty much every review I read for Hood's latest LP 'Outside Closer', it's a very summery record, full of twee acoustic sounds, lovely glittering soundscapes and a general feel of upbeat loveliness.
Spitfire Charlie play laid back and lazy blues with a whiff of the contemporary (see The Libertines) and a hint of the old (see the great Led Zeppelin).
Rhode Island: Sunshine Skylark Bridge
Type the words "Rhode Island" into Google and you'll find websites on The Rhode Island Department of Transportation, The Rhode Island School of Design and The Official Web Site of the State of Rhode Island - Your gateway to information about living, working, visiting, and doing business in Rhode Island.
Jesse Malin: Queen Of The Underworld
Uncut's current flavour of the months introduces himself to the world with the opening track off of debut album 'The Fine Art Of Self Destruction'.
Charlotte Hatherley: Behave EP
Charlotte Hatherley, you've shamed me and I deserve it. Having not got much from a first hearing some months ago, I misguidedly turned my back on a lot of innocent pleasure.
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.
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.
Polarize: Continuous Performance
It's amazing what clues are given away by the letter/biog that accompanies a CD. In the case of Polarize it's a one line letter scrawled in biro: "Here's our first 4 track EP, completely self produced...
This is a third release from Batley's Itch. The passion, inventiveness and musical ambition of the 2001 debut "Spiralling Paper Planes" are still all there, with depth maturity and a surer sense of what Itch are all about.
Shout Out Louds: Our Ill Wills
Back in 2005 Shout Out Louds released their debut album 'Howl Howl Gaff Gaff' which I was a big fan of.
Previously plagued by critique suggesting they are a one-song band, Orka deliver a two-fingered salute in the form of a primarily home-recorded demo CD.
Dan Glendining is a song writer and musician whose previous band Headswim made a little progress into the national consciousness during the 90s.
What immediately struck me about this four-track CD when I first listened to it was the quality of the production.
Having witnessed their insane live show, it's a good feeling to know that Animal Collective don't disappoint on CD.
Luke Hirst: A Demonstration By...
Looking all serious and sombre in the accompanying promo pictures, Luke Hirst aka The Saint conjures up the images of windswept mountains, upon which he pours his heart out to a soft rock soundtrack.
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...
I love this release. Maybe it's because 'What a Fool' is exactly the track you need to hear after a few days spent in a miniscule hospital with a fluctuating temperature.
This is very primitive guitar rock with a swagger and attitude that some people are just going to love.
The Belles are Christopher Tolle and Jake Cardwell from Kansas, a singer/guitarist and a drummer/percussionist.
A lot of you will know of Geordie boys Carma. They tend to pimp themselves around these parts quite a lot.
Sounding like coffee table jazz funk, but with a rougher Tom Waits on vocals, Seven Hours are a bit of a mixed bunch.
Three Children Of Fortune: Scarlet Fever
Despite sounding like an early-eighties kids cartoon a la Mysterious Cities of Gold, Three Children Of Fortune are in fact a post-rock trio from Medway who specialise in creating a "visceral, angry and abrasive take on British guitar music".
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.
I've heard a lot of noise about these guys and with their self titled album, would it get louder or would it have to be drowned out?
Biffy Clyro are, inexplicably, one of those bands you're not really allowed to like. All too often dismissed as lowly emo, the Scottish three-piece band have somehow never quite broken in to the mainstream.
'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.
Volcanoes hail from the new Leeds (Sheffield). The four piece have a stripped back indie blues sound that although not devoid of influences, has a pretty strong personality of its own.
With a name that sounds like a computer game, York's Red:shift are politically and poetically minded post-punk rockers.
The first and best thing you notice about fsor is the passion they have for the tunes they're playing.
Formed around six months this Leeds based outfit have managed to pull together a 4-track demo, which features tracks taken from their usual set list.
Experience dictates that all but a few outstanding songs ever last this longer than 6 mins 30 secs. Therefore it is with some trepidation I note Riser's average track time somewhere above this.
These guys are from New York and it's safe to say they are cool cats. Lump 'em in the same bracket as The Faint if you must - essentially, "electroclash rock band".
Christopher May, guitar slinger for hire. Who? Chris Catalyst, that's who, erstwhile guitarist/bassist for The Sisters of Mercy, Anti Product, The Dead Pets, Ginger from The Wildhearts, amongst others.
Its been four years now since The Dandy Warhols hit the Uk scene with their classic track "Every Day Should be a Holiday", which followed their self-titled album released in 1995.
Having spent four years of my life in Bradford, I still never worked it out as to why this curry capital of the north has managed to take it's place as the 'must have' of any self respecting Rock bands tour dates.
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.
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!
Remember those bands you had when you were in school? The one I was in, unfortunately, split up after a while, but I'm convinced we'd sound like this if we had kept it together.
Australian indie punksters Further have been garnering the sort of press you'd sell your gran for, both in this hemisphere and especially the other, where they're revered by seemingly every disenfranchised Antipodean youth with a chip on his or her backpacked shoulder.
lo-fi pop
Deerpark: It made her look spidery
The slightest thing about this CD is the relative frailness of the songs themselves. The tunes are gentle modulations around a couple of notes that suit the singer's range.
Band Profile: Go Ahead Backup!
indie pop
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.
Pray For Hayden: As The Sun Sets
Post-hardcore, emo crushers Pray For Hayden are here to bleed you dry. I believe this natty little EP is a first, if so then it ain't a bad squeeze.
The Hi Fi Club is nicely full. Not heaving. Nicely full. It's a Friday, and the young and beautiful of Leeds have come out.
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: Rough Trade Shops - Counter Culture 2007
Every year since 2003 there's been a Counter Culture - or at least, a Counter Culture that's been documented by Rough Trade on a Counter Culture compilation.
Shadow of Memories: Too Much Within
Darkly epic melodious doom-metal from the rock metropolis of Headingley, Shadow of Memories latest audio instalment is the two-track EP "Too Much Within".
Bodixa: And They Danced on Glass
On the back of their first single, "Give Me Rain", comes their debut album, "And They Danced On Glass".
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.
This three track demo starts very bright and clear on some strong arpeggiated guitar, with a movement through to a slowly rising bass and drums crescendo that speeds up a little uncertainly.
Subtle are a 6 piece collective from San Francisco and are formed around two core members known as Doseone (one of the founding members of hip-hop label Anticon) and Jel.
Young six-piece De Novo Dahl come from Murfreesboro, Tennessee (population 68,816). Murfreesboro has been named the Most Livable Town in Tennessee.
Broadcast 2000: Building Blocks
I'll begin this review by thanking Broadcast 2000. This CD is like a breath of fresh air and perfect for chilling out and laying back.
The High Chairs: Second Thoughts On Dreams And Doubts EP
The High Chairs are taking on that increasingly daunting task of getting their name around as another unsigned indie band in Leeds.
"We aren't like any other band that are currently on the scene..." ahh the old classic. Anyone who's anyone who's been in a band has either thought it or said it and of course like all of them If I Were King are also incorrect.
Jenny Lewis with the Watson Twins: You Are What You Love
'You Are What You Love': a beautifully heart-rending account of a life in which the persona of the song is in a strange sorta love with the wrong sorta guy.
After standing in possibly the longest box office queue to get the tickets that Ticketmaster never sent, by the time we got into the new Leeds Academy (Carpet?
This is fine stuff. Nikoli can stand up with today's best and be counted, measured, weighed and purchased.
The Nervous Shakedown: Untitled
"Heavy Grooves & Fucked Up Blues" proudly proclaims the scrawled biog and ain't that the truth boy! Musically like taking a corner at full whack on a Speedway track, spitting mud over the crowd.
Ahhhh, fuck. What the hell is that? After a few seconds of silence I was tempted to increase the volume on my speakers, little did I know that this was not a wise idea; the next thirty seconds were to be taken up with some chaotic, distorted and loud effects.
Jalopy Pop is a sugar filled, super happy, smiley faced ride from start to finish. Song after song of catchy, infectious American pop that is so chirpy that it could brighten up the day of the most miserable, down in the dumps bastard.
Oceansize: One Day All This Could Be Yours
Chris Sheldon (Feeder and so on) has done a very tidy production job on a couple of new but shapeless and over extended Oceansize tunes, with a storming live recording of "Massive Bereavement" that pushes the playing time up to over 20 minutes.
Hailing from Detroit, Deadstring Brothers have delivered a fine album worth of songs that evoke thoughts of 'Exile On Main Street'.
Right to begin with I promise not to make any comments connecting poor bands with Bradford - I have recently had several, shall we say sharp remarks, pointing to the fact that I may be being unjust regards the city.
Tindersticks: Don't even go there EP
Get warmed up for this Summer's album release and tour with four new songs from an effortlessly mature Tindersticks.
Wrestling Jacob: The Darkened Glass EP
Hmmmm... too much of this smacks of the one genre that strikes fear into the most hardened music fan, Christian Rock.
With three well-received albums to their name and a massive fan in the form of the legendary David Bowie it's surprising to find that this Antwerp based outfit remain relatively unknown.
I am Jack: Stockholm / Subside
Having only two tracks yet weighing in at nearly 14 minutes I am Jack are a DJ's worst nightmare. Short and sweet this band certainly aren't, but hey, you certainly get your money's worth.
The Music: Take The Long Road And Walk It
Avid followers of The Music will be more than a little familiar with the latest offering from Leeds' biggest buzz band of the moment.
Joan As Police Woman: To Survive
Superbly serene yet gregariously graceful, the second album from Joan Wasser and Co. is a magnificent exercise in chamber-pop intricacy.
So, they're good enough for John Peel, then. Still, he's not that fussy, is he? Let's face it, an hour of obscure euro punk and you start reaching for Radio 2 before seizures set in half the time - or is that just me?
Scott Matthews: Passing Stranger
As contradictory as it sounds, 'Passing Stranger' is an album as worldly as it is firmly rooted to classic folk.
Formed autumn 2004, Baseburner will stop at nothing to get their music heard. When asked what they play the four piece outfit simply reply 'RAWK!' and get over excited.
Grannys4skin: Inventing The Pildo EP
With their abrasive, cartoonish vocals and shock-tactic lyrics, Grannys4Skin aren't going to be to everyone's taste.
My Morning Jacket: Sweatbees EP
Ok, lets get it out of the way. The Flaming Lips. There, I said it. It's something My Morning Jacket are going to have to live with; people will always make comparisons.
Various Artists: Maybeshewill / Her Name Is Calla - split single
The two bands that make up this 12" vinyl split single on Nottingham based imprint Field Records have already built quite a cult following throughout the year.
The second night of the reborn It's Gone Ballistic, the weekly local band showcase taking place at the Rocket Venue on a Tuesday night saw a male-female split.
Over the last few years we've seen the size of bands decline. Whether it be the bassless White Stripes or the vocal lacking Lightning Bolt it seemed bands couldn't get any smaller.
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.
Various Artists: Across The Pennines VI
The heightened sense of regional pride in The North can become a bit absurd sometimes. Then again, on the strength of the deeply Northern music on the sixth Across the Pennines compilation, perhaps a little superiority complex is allowed.
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.
Bradford's Water pleasingly don't fit the usual sweaty longhaired contingent of the city. This album is proficiently played by 3 talented musicians, produced by former Cure levels changer Steve Whitfield, has as much professionalism about it as you would hope, and 11 (that's eleven) songs that borrow a number of classic ideas...
2003's "Hat Danko" is still one of my favourite New Yorkshire albums. Opening track "Honest Industry" gets at least one play a month even now.
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.
I first encountered this artist on 'Later...' with a suave top hat on, singing in an aggressive yet intelligent manner in front of some of the most influential people in music and the genius that is Morrissey.
Band Profile: Girls Can't Dance
indie rock post-punk
Red Bee Society: When We Talk of Horses
Every so often a band comes out of nowhere and punches you in the kidneys before ripping out your heart and then skipping off down the pub laughing.
Let's get this straight - despite the marketing blurb that was enclosed with this CD describing We The Faceless as 'new grunge', there's nothing particularly new about them.
I will make no apology for the lacklustre performance given by openers KENOSHA, who decided that the paying customers were not worthy of them playing a part in the proceedings.
Fell City Girl boast drama. And I mean drama. The kind of textured melodies reminiscent of some obscure New Zealand pop exercise by the name of The Veils.
The Boy Tate: Flagrante Delicto
Eighteen months since their last outing The Boy Tate return with a 15 track long player of sweet stripped down melancholy.
The Psychedelic Breakfast: Untitled
Based in Newcastle, the Psychedelic Breakfast are wisely attempting to spread their wings outside their native city.
When the news first arrived that Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke was to release a solo record it came as a bit of a surprise, certainly considering Radiohead were currently in the middle of a tour and busy recording their highly anticipated seventh album, however, many felt Thom would go solo at some point...
The Search Map: Tiny Victories EP
Hearing genuinely talented musicians for the first time is something that I experience very rarely. The Tiny Victories EP by The Search Map gave me one such experience.
This is good strong stuff and you don't have to fear its somberness, or shy away from having the whole lot at once: there's enough grace, sinew and primeval mass here to deserve a chance of being the main thing in your brain for a half an hour, even if the opening title track looms out of the silence to establish a portentous presence, and having done so, rather slips away in a slow heartbeat rhythm and female vocal.
Having toured with many large acts including James Blunt, Sheryl Crow and Joseph Arthur, Pallot's album 'Fires' is sure to be purchased primarily by fans she has won over with stunning live performances, myself included.
The melancholy guitar swirling and reflective lyrics of The Somatics' eponymous debut album quickly evoke thoughts of aspirations unrealised and of opportunities spurned.
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.
After a hugely successful year, including headlining the NME stage at V2003 and supporting REM in Europe, Feeder sign off with the title track from superb 'Comfort In Sound'.
In truth I know nothing about the contemporary black music scene. I'm a stranger and lost with no bearings.
I deliberately delayed starting this review as the first listen frightened me into the thought that the single El Shake might be too challenging to describe very well, but when I played it today things became distinctly clear...
With his 2004 solo debut "Homesongs", ex Four Tet member Adem Ilhan managed to break the hardest of hearts with his folk quivering and breathy songs that sounded so fragile at times it was hard not to fall in love with.
Last Night's TV: Nice to Have a History
Spencer Bayles and company have taken a big leap forward with this richly-produced single. Main song "Nice to Have a History" has a haunting tune and a warmer range of sounds than the customary Last Night's TV signature.
Here we have ten diamond white 80s pop songs with mighty swirls of darker third millennium awareness.
I have to start by saying that this sort of music is not my usual cup of tea, so I was very dubious about going but finally got talked into it, as few mates of mine were going to be performing.
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!
While others are off on tour supporting Beth Orton in the U.S we British Lizards are stuck here to take the heat.
This Black Velvetine's latest release, the three track EP "Goodbye" reeks of all things sleaze, snot and debauched rock.
This accomplished recording goes out as a three-track CD on September 13th on Over Unity Records. Lead song "Prototype" adopts early Parisman style with some Depeche Modish keyboard licks that lead into a guitar/bass/drums band song with a keyboard middle section that isn't quite rock and isn't quite dance.
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.
Unfortunately for the discerning popster, this CD would not appear - like many a K-Tel offering of yesteryear - to be available in any shops.
Crack In The Sun: Jim'll Fax It EP
Firstly I will say I am not a huge fan of new punk bands but somehow after seeing these guys live in some place in Northwich the other night the energy and humour onstage from these Mansfield lads compelled me to grab a hold of one of their free CDs which humorously had several cut-outs of Jim Bowen (one complete with a doll of Bully!) on the cover along with...
The Flaming Lips: At War With the Mystics
The Flaming Lips have achieved with their last 2 albums what evades 99.9% of all other 'successful' acts - whatever your criteria for classing that is.
In which a 25-year-old sweet and innocent looking gal makes a distinctly sweet and innocent sounding song.
The Big Blue: A Small Drop In The Ocean
Summer is here. It's a beautiful Wednesday morning so naturally I am sat indoors playing Pro Evolution Soccer 5 - the "international cup" [come on EA hand over the licence] quarter final against Brazil.
Lupen Crook: A Silver Boot for Sam
When Lupen Crook's fragile, heartbreaking voice echoes out against a backdrop of country-based folkified O'Brother Where Art Thou banjos, pianos, double bass, fiddles (reversed!) and deep, beautifully low, four-part male vocal harmonies (phew!), I know I'm in deep-west acoustic heaven.
I swear I'm dreaming... nothing this celestial and beautiful ever happens when I'm awake... Portal's latest sees eleven tracks bleed into one another with hazy, barely conscious waves of ambient synth drones and haunting electronic washes of sound.
Lauren Harris: Calm Before The Storm
'Calm Before The Storm' is that most frustrating of things: an album lavished with effort, polished to within an inch of its life, and with an army of people contributing to each track (five people have a hand in 'Let Us Be') and yet, it's difficult to get excited about this album.
Capital State: Revolution Thoughts EP
You have to respect Capital State. They just keep coming back at you. Ever since I saw them at Leeds Festival back in 2001, I've been intrigued.
Kanye West: 808s And Heartbreak
He dropped out of college in 2004, touched the sky in 2005 and by 2007 was living the good life, but in 2008 Kanye West is welcoming us to heartbreak with the greatest artistic gamble mainstream pop has seen in years.
They're from Wales. And damn proud of it, it would seem. Novello come from the label 'Dragonffli' ("spelt the Welsh way") and are purveyors of catchy, sometimes dark, atmospheric rock music, but without the cheese of similar rock bands, or the pointless whinging of most emo bands, which they maybe sound quite similar too.
I am loving the whole boy/girl vocal trend that seems to be kicking off at the moment. The Subways, Young Heart Attack, The Raveonettes all get the thumbs up from me for proving that rock 'n' roll is not gendered.
Palo Alto is a city in west California known for its electronics industry. It has got together as a huge band of 55,000 members, elected Elaine as their lead singer, signed to Valentine Records and produced "Wades into Water" its second release on said label.
For the most part, this Lincolnshire based folk-rock outfit, offer pretty ordinary acoustic picking/strumming tunes of the brand that will be eternally popular in pubs whose name begins O' or round the campfires of crusty festivals.
The opening bars of the mistitled "Orgasm" are beautifully done. A well controlled and very sweet guitar phrase leads into Anthony Slattery's very good vocal delivery on a big open song.
Whoa! Where did this come from? Like a rabid dog let out of its cage whilst on numerous class A drugs, The Lies are all about fast, loud, in your face 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.
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.
This is essentially a standard 4-track demo, albeit a topsy turvey one. Two of the best tracks from the band's debut album A Song For Gill and 2 sneak previews from the forthcoming album Loved And Lost due out in the very near future.
Having been brought up listening to all the 60's and 70's hippy-mod bands, it was a real treat to be sent this CD, all I can say is these guys have some talent between them, and a very decent producer.
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.
A grunge band with the muscle of an Ox and delicacy of a butterfly the Hull based band In:Audium deliver their new EP Digital Saviour.
After already being one up on the fact I had seen these girls perform all these tracks live, whilst supporting The Almighty in Sheffield, I was interested to see how well it sounded on more produced level because their set was pretty bloody good.
All Its Worth: The Golden Spoon Theory EP
Research says that All Its Worth, an emerging four-piece from Pudsey are a 'punk rock band' with influences listed as Muse, Placebo, 3 Colours Red and Hole, yet their debut EP is more fittingly described as catchy, guitar pop ditties.
Delivering one of the ubiquitous songs of the 90's with Born Slippy, Underworld subsequently found themselves lauded as one of the nations favourite dance acts and part of the "Cool Britannia" scene.
All My Friends Are Dead: Days Of Sleep
Falling somewhere between the orchestrated Icelandic experimental pop sound of Sigur Ros and the dynamics of the post-rock genre sits the Leeds based 5-piece All My Friends Are Dead.
"We're in for a treat here," was my first thought when glimpsing this rather professional looking, although homemade, I'm assured, CD.
Fifth Goodbye were the first band of the evening's entertainment, and they had to put in a very solid performance to be able to stand up to the following bands, and a solid performance it was.
This preview for an album-in-the-pipeline is Ramon's first on Fishsoup Records. It is an exquisite piece of work.
Luke Hirst: Songs for a rainy day
Luke Hirst gets off to a better start than most beginner singer/writer/guitarists. His guitar playing is crisp and well-recorded.
The Unisex: Watching Traffic EP
It seems that when they are not busy making porn movies, the people of Sweden also like to produce top notch records for the rest of the world to enjoy.
Getting around to reviewing the four-track CD from Mozer - not to be mistaken with Mozzer... "We're not a Morrissey tribute band" - has been brought to the fore in the last few days due to dialogue with former Seahorses drummer, Andy Watts.
Various Artists: Bright Young Things 2002
The Bright Young Things CD for 2002 is being distributed by Leeds City Council in April as a free addition to the glossy and widely available Leeds Guide.
Various Artists: Across The Pennines IV
Another ATP compilation hits the doormat and, with it comes another predictably unpredictable clutch of northern sparkle.
The Somatics: Did You Ever Love Me?
A phone call from a middleman brought about a nocturnal meeting at The Somatics' Attic Studio on the high ground of west Leeds, where three levels of concrete stairway led to a warm welcome, and to brief but wide-ranging conversation (Gershwin, the Borderline, King Crimson, the Summer weather of 1928).
There's no doubt that Telegramme frontwoman Faye has a powerful voice. However, she also has an unusual habit of serving her vocals with a helping of random warbling noises and sudden high notes.
Hearing the news that you've been asked to review a demo from a local acoustic singer/songwriter is enough to send shivers down the spine of even the hardiest of writer.
Oh my! Blended together smoother than a chocolate fudge sundae, The Sugars sure can shake, rattle and roll.
Black Strobe: Shining Bright Star
"Black Strobe have been in demand for many years from artists who feel their music could benefit from some twisted tweaking".
The Bellrays: The Red, White and Black
The down and dirty bass guitar riff of "Remember" kicks off this second Poptones offering from The Bellrays before some rolling drums interrupt proceedings along with strangled guitar for company and then we're off into a rifftastic headlong dash to the chorus.
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!!!!
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...
Tindersticks: Waiting For The Moon
Tindersticks are one of the UK's most talented, and rather unfortunately, overlooked bands of the past 10 years or so, and 'Waiting For The Moon', their latest LP, should go a long way to help give the band the attention they deserve.
Where to start with Wild Beasts? Their music is haunting and terrifying and oh so terribly exciting. And although admittedly, you'll most likely be freaked out to fuck at first listen, allow the Leeds/Kendal/somwherefarfromhere quartet work on you and thou shalt be thankful.
Upon arriving at the pub, I purchased the usual pint of wife-beater and made my way down stairs. Sitting down in the rather empty basement room I was surprised that the first band was not already on.
Ludwig sound somewhere between Orbital, Boards of Canada, and, well, the rest of the Warp back catalogue to be honest.
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.
Rock/Alternative/Progressive
After arriving home from my brief holiday in Iceland, it's ironic to find a song about summer waiting on my doorstep.
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.
Kanuba are the fretboard funkateers looking to put the pork into York and the groove into West Yorkshire with their latest EP release.
Maximo Park: Our Earthly Pleasures
I had the privilege of meeting singer Paul Smith at a small record store in Durham way before 'Apply Some Pressure' had propelled them to Radio One stardom - way before the fabulous Jo Whiley had jumped on the indie bandwagon.