Background - Written, recorded, produced and mixed by OMD – Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys – ‘Isotype’ is taken from the duo’s brilliant new album ‘The Punishment Of Luxury’; a daring collection of stylish synth pop and masterful song writing that will rank alongside their very best. Boasting an infectious synth line and soaring melody ‘Isotype’ sees the band address the issues of communication and technology within the 21st century. Speaking of the track Andy said ‘"It’s about the modern world where our communication value systems are so reduced that you wonder if we’re actually getting any clear point across’. Having played a triumphant sold out show at the Royal Albert Hall in May last year, OMD head back out on the road again this autumn for a string of must-see shows, including a show at The Roundhouse November 13th. The album takes its name from an 1891 painting by the Italian Giovani Segantini and contains everything from the Kraftwerkian ‘Isotype’ and ‘Robot Man’ to the blue eyed soul ballads of ‘One More Time’ and ‘The View From Here’ as well as more traditional OMD songs like ‘Kiss Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Bang’ and the synth heavy title track. Website here, Facebook here.
I am glad I have kept most of my original vinyl albums, of which OMD remain a valued member. It does not seem like thirty seven years ago that I first got so excited by the band. Their new material including the featured song 'Isotype' is just as fresh and pleasing, why say more!
Background - Fresh from a set at The Great Escape that inspired The Guardian to state, “Inheaven leave Brighton's new music shindig shaking”, INHEAVEN’s growing cult of devotees looks set to expand exponentially when they release their self-titled debut album on September 1st. To coincide with the announcement, the band have also shared a new video for their recent track ‘Vultures’ which compiles footage from their adrenaline-fuelled live experience.
Produced by Tom Dalgety (Royal Blood, Pixies, The Maccabees) and recorded at Rockfield Studios, INHEAVEN’s debut is the sound of a band who are set to change the lives of teenagers the length and breadth of the nation, and beyond. The life-affirming energy of their music combined with their individualistic ethos combine to make a band worth investing in beyond simply adding a few tracks to your Spotify playlist.
The album kicks off with ‘Baby’s Alright’, in which a prominent bassline that evokes the arresting openings of bands like The Ramones and The Damned merges into a rabble-rousing melody to make for a rallying call to arms. Although INHEAVEN are best known for evoking Slowdive and My Blood Valentine by layering dreamy vocals on vast waves of distorted guitars on tracks such as ‘Regeneration’, ‘Vultures’ is a very different beast. Its doomy, metallic opening riff erupts into life before Chloe Little’s urgently enunciated vocals provoke a radical change of pace. Not to be outdone, James Taylor’s stream-of-consciousness hook is delivered in a feral rush of punk ‘n’ roll. Having already confirmed a variety of summer festivals which include the NME / BBC Radio 1 Stage at the Reading and Leeds Festivals, INHEAVEN can now also announce details of an autumn headline tour in support of the album. Live dates can be found on Beehive Candy's tour page. Facebook here.
'Vultures' is a forceful and vigorous, no nonsense rocker that pretty much explains the love this band are currently receiving. Another band where rock'n'rolls legacy is in safe hands.
Background - The powerful alt-pop debut ‘Vivienne’ hones in on lo-fi grittiness from The White Stripes while unifying her classic British influences including Massive Attack and Bat For Lashes. Fronted with a distorted, driving bassline that strikes like a marching parade. The melodies and lyrics are delicate yet powerful & the songs tell tales of escapism. First single 'Vivienne' is a track with a distinctly British edge. Vivienne Chi comments “I wrote 'Vivienne' about getting through the aftermath of a break-up and that little voice in your head that persuades you to do something stupid. It's about losing control and letting your other, less dignified self take over for a moment.”
Sculpting lyrics and melodies into a catalogue of songs touching on belonging, heartache & the darker sides of London’s excessive lifestyle. This exciting debut is the first of many works from Vivienne Chi. Website here.
There is a beautiful divide between the vocals and the powerful, yet understated musical arrangement on 'Vivienne'. Refrains rather than choruses, seem to break the song up, as debut's go this is one ear catching piece.
Background - Halifax's Walrus announce tour in support of Family Hangover. Walrus will release their debut LP, Family Hangover, on June 9th via Dan Mangan's Madic Records. Currently available for pre-order, it features a soulful, fuzzed-out mix of swirling vocals, wailing guitar riffs, and Spacemen 3-style drone, all with a laid-back, '60s-infused vibe. "...just because Walrus doesn’t seem to take itself terribly seriously doesn’t mean Walrus shouldn’t be taken seriously. These lads can do pretty much anything." - Toronto Star. Today, the band has detailed their tour in support of the album. The Halifax-based band offered a first taste of the album with lead single "Regular Face" and followed it up with the psych-tinged "In Timely Fashion". Live dates are over on Beehive Candy's tour page, website here, Facebook here.
'In Timely Fashion' is a whirlpool of psychedelic vibes where melodic vocals and rich sounding guitars, create four minutes of aural delight.
Background - With the release of their first single and debut album on Shelflife in 2014, The Luxembourg Signal quickly found a loyal following among fans of dream pop/indie pop music, and received enthusiastic reviews for their pop sensibilities, angelic vocals and lush soundscapes. Since the debut release, the band's lineup of Beth Arzy & Betsy Moyer (vocals), Johnny Joyner (guitars), Brian Espinosa (drums) and Ginny Pitchford (keyboards) has been expanded with the addition of Kelly Davis (guitars) and Daniel Kumiega (bass). The seven-piece played a handful of shows in the UK and Europe in the summer of 2015 to promote their debut album, including a Sunday evening performance at Indietracks that many cited as one of the highlights of the weekend. 2015 also saw the release of a split 7” single with Soft Science (Test Pattern Records), which featured a remix of Dying Star by Robert Hampson (Loop/Main). The band returned to the studio in 2016 to complete their second full length Blue Field coming out this fall on Shelflife and Kleine Untergrund Schallplatten. "Laura Palmer" is the first single from the album and one of our favorite tracks of the year. The b-side is a special cover version of "Let's Make Some Plans" by the Close Lobsters. For their follow-up LP, Blue Field (Shelflife), The Luxembourg Signal returned to the studio with engineer Mark Rains and produced an album that reveals a bolder, more developed sound with a darker undertone. The new LP also features guest vocals by Bobby Wratten (Field Mice, Trembling Blue Stars) on the reflective track "Fall Feeling." The Luxembourg Signal will be playing various dates in Germany (TBA) in September 2017 as well as The Paris Pop Fest on Friday September 22, 2017. Website here, Facebook here.
With a pleasing melody and dreamy vocals 'Laura Palmer' is a gorgeous indie pop song, that just builds and builds to a crescendo of musical power.
Background - 'La Truth' is the first single released by BUHU that was solely written, produced, recorded and mixed by frontman Jeremy Rogers. The song is a retrospective of Jeremy's guilt in being dishonest with his wife and the strains that keeping secrets can cause on a loving relationship. La Truth was recorded on a 1990's Korg 8 track multi track recorder. Inspired by the lo-fi recording techniques of Sufjan Steven's Michigan album, Jeremy set out to record a whole new set of "Bedroom Pop" songs that reflect the emotional and complicated relationships he shares with his loved ones and the world around him. 'La Truth' released May 15th on FMF Records BUHU has also announced the summer 2017 'Love and the Wild' tour in partnership with The National Parks Service. The 'Love and the Wild' tour will take BUHU through Canada, the West Coast and nine national parks. BUHU is doing the tour in advocacy for environmentalism, musicians mental health and the conservation of North America's greatest natural treasures. Live dates are over on Beehive Candy's tour page, Facebook here.
Dominant bass sounds, swirling synths and haunting, distant vocals ensure 'La Truth' is a memorable musical piece. Lo-fi electronic music with an under current of potent power.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The School Book Depository - A Fork In The Road For Behavioural Science.
Background - The School Book Depository - "A Fork In The Road For Behavioural Science" With this year’s possibly most complicated title The School Book Depository is following up it’s last single ”Salvation” with a both strange and inspiring pop-cocktail. This catchy tune is a psychedelic trip to the outskirts of sanity where groovy, Motown-flavored hip hop meets catchy pop melodies in an awkward universe where absurdity clashes with geniality. An odd pop gem in a lo-fi outfit that bring both Beck and Eels to mind. When it comes to the lyrics it would probably require a masters degree in both psychoanalysis and behavioural science to figure this one out. The initial line pretty much sets the tone for the lyrical content: “I’m duct taping pork chops under my feet, the comfort it brings, it is stress release for my knees”. If norm criticism is the popular term for this decade, this song sure would be the perfect theme song, bringing the term yet another dimension. Bandcamp here.
'A Fork In The Road For Behavioural Science' deserves to be heard for the song title alone. Our second feature this year for The School Book Depository and it's another superb piece, where the hypnotic rhythm supports a genre defying mixture of vocals and musicianship.
Background - Cymorth (meaning Support/Help) is ARGRPH's follow-up single to the majestic melancholy that was 'Tywod' from late 2016. Spending studio time again with producer Llyr Parry (Y Niwl, Palenco, Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog), songwriter, guitarist and vocalist Emyr Sion was joined by Caradog Davies (drums+vocals) and Gwyn Rosser (guitar+vocals). Together they have created a song that musically brings a darker hue to their already distinctive dreamy, surf pop. Emyr is fastly developing to be one of the bravest and singular new creative voices from Wales. Cymorth is a song "Dealing with the inadequate and destructive advice given to those suffering from mental health". "Mocking the sentences that I (Emyr) have heard time after time during the darkest points of my life" Cymorth is a poetic and emotionally bruising song. There lies the magic of ARGRPH sound, making the universal personal and the personal universal with music that is always emotionally stirring and beautifully uplifting. Facebook here.
Singing from the language of your heart always seems to add an additional layer of feeling as, I would suggest, is clearly the case with 'Cymorth'. The song is somewhere between surf pop and shoegaze, a strange combination on paper and a beautiful one in reality.
Background - Cremation Songs is the forthcoming album from Seattle baroque dreampop trio Tomten, known for their dreamy organ tones, analogue synths and enchanting three part harmonies. Cremation Songs, a bittersweet collection of 13 sparkling and singed beauties, will be released on CD, vinyl and digital formats on Plume Records on July 7th. 'Limbo's Daughter' is one of the album's more poppy upbeat numbers, and it came together in an unexpected way, cause half the keyboard on the Wurlitzer was out of tune, so I had to play the Wurlitzer and Rhodes set up next to each other -- higher octave on Rhodes. The happy accident moments like this made recording this LP a more exciting experience...One of my favorite things about this song is the little dueling guitar part in the middle that was played by Jake Brady and Jason Quever: Jake's guitar going direct to get that curdled milk tone, and Jason's FDA approved melody line. "Cremation Songs features just about everyone we've ever worked with and more, which makes me happiest," says Noyes-Watkins. "We have past band members Gregg Belisle-Chi and Lena Simon on it, as well as Jason Quever who recorded The Farewell Party." Andy Meyer engineered and mixed the album at The Unknown in Anacortes, WA, and Carl Saff, based in Chicago, mastered the record. Facebook here.
'Limbo's Daughter' is an engaging and quite timeless sounding song. At the heart of the song are some most agreeable vocals and harmonies, however the musical arrangement and fine musicianship nudge the song up, making the forthcoming album a very interesting prospect.
Background - In 2016 the South African band, Diamond Thug, recorded their debut EP with the help of Dave Minehan (The Replacements) and released it to waves of support. After significant support from their home country and now at Spotify, where they have had several million plays, and with the wind in their sails, Diamond Thug introduce their music internationally with upcoming single ‘Eclipsed’, an evocative track that takes influence from the likes of Warpaint, Beach House and Vulfpeck. Since their formation, Diamond Thug have continually evolved, always striving to create a unique sound that’s stay true to their perspective. Their music glides through dream-pop, skittish, off-kilter electronica & psychedelic-rock, creating cosmic-influenced ethereal soundscapes, which swirl below Chantel’s haunting, yet beautiful melodies. The pursuit of an authentic & honest sound has earned the band various honours in international competitions such as Culture Collide’s pick to perform at SXSW 2017, as well as Converse’s Music Global Takeover and the attention of Grammy Award winner Darryl Torr, who had this to say about the band: "When listening to Diamond Thug, you are taken on a journey. It’s the effortless vocals, supported by a solid band, that tips you over the edge & pulls you through into their world. It’s rare to find a voice that can execute such interesting melodies so effortlessly as well as a band that leaves space for the vocals to shine, yet are able to maintain musical integrity." Website here, Facebook here.
Alternative pop might be something of an oxymoron, however with Diamond Thug and songs like 'Eclipsed' it's pretty much spot on. The track is fabulously original, hard to put in any one genre, and yet the attention this band have received so far, suggests their music is very pop, as in popular.
Background - Hull postpunks LUMER return this Spring with their new standalone single Gruel. With slots at BBC Radio 1 ’s Big Weekend in 2017’s UK City of Culture Hull (the band’s home town) and also Dot to Dot festival in Manchester during the week of release, Gruel takes the band to new heights in their very short life and meteoric rise as “a band to watch out for in 2017/18”. On Gruel the four-piece have branched out into something borderline schizophrenic, with their twitchy guitar riffs and warped vocals giving way to something softer and more downtempo. To quote the band’s lead vocalist and bass player Alex Evans: “Gruel is about jealousy, anger, and failed attempts at escaping false thoughts. We had a lot of inspirations for Gruel, but mainly it’s a combination of Goth and Post-Punk bands like Bauhaus & Viet Cong (Preoccupations) as well as being inspired by our environment. Practicing in a dark, damp warehouse building in Hull has shaped the dark nature of the song.” This darkness is captured in the single’s somewhat tortured vocal and eerie instrumental middle section. With their scuzzy and feverish grunge riffs LUMER are fast becoming a manic force to be reckoned with. Recently likened to acts such as Yak, King Nun and Black Flag, LUMER have bloomed out of Hull’s thriving alternative music scene, holding the garagepunk torch aloft and lighting the way for the angry and the disenfranchised. Formed in the wintery beginnings of 2016, LUMER have develop their cryptic post-punk sound and have gone on to play high-octane shows supporting Life on their UK tour, Weirds and Vulgarians on their Manchester dates plus a performance at the prestigious Rough Trade Nottingham. Facebook here.
'Gruel' is one of those "cut to the chase" pieces. Post punk, ploughs straight into some alt rock, full of attitude, angst and passion. The resulting explosion of incredibly fresh music, gives hope to first generation punks. Those who remain in search of a refill of those years of the youthful vigour. Something only punk genres can deliver.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chances - Leave The Light On.
Background from Chances - We are excited to be releasing our new single after our debut single received so much support from listeners and taste makers like you. The song is about trusting that you’ve got some things to learn along the way from the connections in life that may be fleeting yet beautiful. It describes going ahead with something or someone, even when you know right from the start that it may not take you all the way to the finish line. Musically, the song features a rhythmic counter-play between the melody and percussion. We wanted the vocals to be uplifting - infused with a feeling of hope and possibility. Near the end of the song you can hear some french lyrics weaved into the line; reflecting our roots. We came together in Montreal in 2016 to sketch out a few songs, just to see where uninhibited brainstorming might lead us. New rules brought new possibilities, one person’s writer’s block became another’s building block. Website here, Facebook here.
And if alternative pop is not enough 'Leave The Light On' takes us into the wonderland of experimental pop, and by it's very credentials establishes such a place exists. With this song, it is also clearly thriving.
Background - Brooklyn-based quartet My Favourite Things have announced the new album ‘Fly I Will, Because I Can’, which is slated for release on July 14, 2017, but are already teasing the first single 'A Little Closer, loaded with shoegaze and dreampop goodness.
This is the third album from My Favourite Things, founded in Brooklyn by Dorothea Tachler (formerly of Igloo, The Swirlies, Alles Wie Gross). Fans of Beach House, Broadcast, dreampop and shoegaze should enjoy the album’s melancholic swaying, melody-rich offerings. This album should also appeal to lovers of acoustic folk music artists such as James Yorkston and Bonnie “Prince” Billy.
From a young age, her Korean/German/Croatian background has immersed her in a diversity of musical influences, which have shaped her. In 2009, she released “rarara” (Afterhours/Japan), followed by “Tomorrow’s Far Away” in 2013, featuring guest vocals from several friends and former band-mates, including Valerie Trebeljahr of Lali Puna, Damon Tutunjan from The Swirlies, Daru Oda (Norah Jones), Sean Meadows (June of 4, Lungfish), and Doug Scharin (Codeine, HIM, Rex).
Once again, Dorothea wrote and produced all the songs with their many textures, owing to the use of multiple instruments, many of which she also played: violins, flutes and autoharps weave in and out of twinkling glockenspiels, vibraphones and intricate, sometimes shredding guitars, delivered on a solid bed of a grabbing bass and ripping drums, with Dorothea’s balmy voice hovering and twinkling atop. Website here, Facebook here.
'A Little Closer' is one of twelve tracks on the new album 'Fly I Will, Because I Can'. This new collection of material is awash with dreamy, melodic and soothing songs. As a whole I would describe the album as more high quality dream pop than shoegaze, it's refinement and fabulous production, should give the album some deserved attention and wide appeal.
Background - Feltworth is a 4-piece rock band consisting of Dezi Feltworth (bass, vocals), his brother Manny Feltworth (guitar, vocals), Morris Katzenburd (piano, keyboards) and Cozy Balboa (drums, tambourine). You may, of course, know of them already if you have children at arm’s length. Feltworth has been an outrageously successful act on the children’s music scene for many years. They burst into the limelight early in their career with their first album of music for youngsters called Super Duper. They followed that smash record with both Felty, Felty Places and We’re Feltworth, a pair of multi-platinum releases that saw the “fabric four” begin to add more original material to their repertoire of tried and true children’s classics. Their game changing fourth album, Beanbag Town, was their first album of all original songs for kids. It’s still considered a high water mark on the spectrum of adolescent entertainment. Though regarded as financially and commercially successful, the fellows of Feltworth didn’t feel creatively satisfied by being pigeon-holed as children’s act. So, against their manager’s wishes, they’ve embarked on making a real pop/rock record that reflects their own personality and their influences - be it The Sweet, Paul McCartney, Brian Eno or Rupert Holmes. With the change in direction, they are challenging their core audience and seeking new listeners. It’s been a tough-sell to their manager and label, so the band has decided to self-finance the new recordings that will be released via their own Dezman Productions label. The first release from this brand new batch of activity is a limited edition orange coloured 7” single featuring the rocking “Forget This Feeling” (lead vocals by Manny) and the longing romanticism of “You Turn Me On” (lead vocals by Dezi). There’s more music to come. The past is behind them. The future awaits-ish. Feltworth - Forget This Feeling / You Turn Me On, release date: June 02, 2017. Facebook here.
Having watched and listened to the video, without reading the promo I was a tad confused. Being too old and grumpy to be familiar with the bands background, 'Forget This Feeling' came across as a bright and breezy, unpretentious surf pop type song, with a ridiculous video. OK so now I an on message, and it's still a fine tune.
Background - Alternative folk rock singer-songwriter and guitarist Alan Getto shares his new single, "Change." His debut album, Versus, is due out August 2017. The LP was recorded over one long weekend at Studio 101A in Southern New Hampshire. The recordings were mixed by Simon Katz and mastered by Jonathan Wyner (David Bowie, Nirvana, Miles Davis) a Berklee professor and Chief Mastering Engineer at M-Works. Inspired by paradoxical elements of life and examining his own transition into his current lifestyle, Getto finds a perfect balance between various dualities through his artistic expression. Having recently located to an unfinished farmhouse in Western Pennsylvania from Brooklyn, Versus presents Getto's personal confrontation with his own ambivalence. The album intentionally plays with cliché oppositions such as nature vs. the city, good vs. the bad and male vs. female. One can’t exist without the other, and for anything to exist, there must be a degree of conflict: "the versus." Getto's guitar-driven, simple melodies act as a backbone for the lyrical emphasis in his music. Having studied literature, theology, and philosophy in college, his lyrics pay homage to these intense, existential topics, but with a unique, irreverent spin. Tracks, "Soap In My Whiskey," and "It's Fine; You're Ugly," present Getto's blunt voice and narrative, with gorgeous melodies and organic, roots-y instrumentals. Getto is inspired by rock, blues and folk legends, such as Tom Waits and The Band, and newer folk artists including, Steve Gunn, Lady Lamb, The Tallest Man On Earth and Deer Tick. Once Getto had the concept, which was embodied by Leah Blanchette’s cover art, he enlisted friends to play on the album: three out of four members of the Boston “guerilla roots” band Damn Tall Buildings, along with cellist Kurt Villiard, drummer Tim Maxwell and pianist Jeff Davison. Having previously released a live EP, All Different Times, Versus is the first full-length body of work to be released by Getto. While in Brooklyn, Getto performed around the city at various venues but has since moved out to the country, where he'll finish renovations on his farmhouse during the release of the record. Bandcamp here, Facebook here.
There's a pleasing laid back vibe that courses it's way through 'Change'. Add in the earnest vocals and some classic, bluesy guitar work and we have one superbly natural song, and a real teaser for the August album release.
Background - "Everything Under the Sun was one of our first experiences with Co-writing. We were excited to be in Nashville for the first time and wanted to write a song that expressed our gratitude. A tune for the highway on a sunny day, feeling your freedom, bright eyed and thankful." The song comes from their new album 'Full Circle', which will be out this summer on Nettwerk Music Group. Twin Bandit is Hannah Walker and Jamie Elliott. Together they bring you an intimate folk/roots performance with strong harmonies & original songs. Website here, Facebook here.
Melodic and refreshing vocals are supported by a smooth mixture of country, folk and roots orientated music. 'Everything Under the Sun' is deliciously addictive as the melody and harmonies add extra sparkle. Album eagerly awaited!
Background - The band was originally formed under the name “The Silverslut” in 1999 and they recorded 6 EPs before evolving into The Search in 2004. The group has since released 6 studio albums and has faced many changes in their line-up until it was eventually reduced to a trio shortly before the release of their record “Our Need for Solace” (2014).
Their new album “Songs about Losers” comprises 17 dark/dream pop tracks that remind us of The Smiths and many other British guitar bands of the 80s. Nevertheless, The Search’s minimalistic sound is modern and authentic, providing the perfect ambiance for their emotion-filled stories to unfold. Heart and soul of The Search is Razmig Tekeyan, a talented musician who once again proves his ability to embrace plenty of life’s experiences and blend them into his compositions and lyrics.
Their new album “Songs about Losers” was recorded and produced in the band’s own studio and mastered by Magnus Lindberg in Stockholm, Sweden. “Songs about Losers” may not change the world as we know it but listen to it with an open mind and you may be surprised. Facebook here.
The first of seventeen tracks 'I Call You Home' is a fine indicator of the timeless album that is, 'Songs About Losers'. The sheer number of songs, is not delivered at the expense of quality or originality. In fact for me it is rather a case of being spoilt for choice, and it will take a good few listens before I can narrow down to, which songs are my favourites. Their back catalogue may take some time to go through.
Background - Beauty Sleep are back and have just played their first UK shows at The Great Escape Festival last week. To support, the dream pop 3-piece have a new single ready here called All In. Turns out the tales are true and one can quite simply never have enough beauty sleep, especially when it’s in the form of a dreamy pop three-piece. Beauty Sleep were born after a bonding session ft. fridge magnets, rude words and a lot of G&T’s (creatives eh) and just one year down the line are giving Belfast another name (on top of Snow Patrol, Two Door Cinema Club and Pleasure Beach) to shout about. All In when it comes to their upcoming debut EP “Nature Will Eat Me”. “All In” see’s us met straight away with the serene synths we have grown to expect from the trio which, although shockingly somehow manage to seem enough alone, are joined shortly by a pop-meets-indie-and-gets-on-very-well drumbeat and keys. Skip to the chorus and prepare to be hooked, quite literally. With a melody and lyrics highlighting yet again Beauty Sleep’s ‘Sparkling Songwriting’ and guitars reminiscent of Fickle Friends, expect a hook that could challenge even the best of pop ‘hey’s. Facebook here.
'All In' has a vibrant dream pop vibe, where melodies, vocals and harmonies all compete for our attention. For me it's a case of attention gained and I'm loving it!
Background - Carrington MacDuffie recently released her latest EP, Rock Me To Mars. The six-tracks were all produced by Rob Halverson, and recorded at his Halversonics studio in Austin. A multi-genre artist, Carrington describes her music “electronic Americana,” while reviewers have called it “alt-cabaret.”
Carrington wrote the songs for Rock Me To Mars on ukulele and keyboards, and plays both acoustic and electric ukulele on the EP. In addition to producing, Rob also plays multiple synths, baritone, bass, guitar, hammered dulcimer, and accordion on the tracks. They were joined on various tracks by Thor Harris on drums, Daniel Jones on drums, and Paul Klemperer on saxophone.
Rock Me To Mars features more electronic influences than her previous recordings, utilizing filters, synths, and voice modulation.
“I’m fascinated with electricity, and how it can be manipulated to make sound,” says Carrington. “I like experimenting with unconventional ways of integrating electronic sounds into my music.”
The title track, “Rock Me to Mars,” is a love letter – of sorts – to a guitarist… but keep in mind Carrington says, “it seems like I always fall in love with every musician I ever played with. It just translates for me that romance and making music are practically interchangeable.” Website here, Facebook here.
'Rock Me To Mars' gives a good feel for the EP. Title track and one of six, it typifies the meeting of natural Americana and electronic sounds, the latter complementing and adding to the songs, rather than dominating. The result is a melodic and desirable EP produced to a high standard.
Background - Following the release of the singles “6th of June” and “Animal”, Brisbane rock band Velvet Flare announce the release of their latest single “Ice Age” from their forthcoming EP, Archetypes. “Ice Age” is a modern tragedy. A girl, who likes her ecstasy, meets a boy whose new drug of choice is crystal meth. In a moment of violence he kills her. The haunting refrain in the outro: “It looks like she showed him now” is pure irony and sadly cynical. “Ice Age” was recorded, mixed and mastered by Slade Gibson at Slade Gibson Music studio, The Gap, Brisbane. Velvet Flare was formed by Paul English. He writes the music and lyrics, sings vocals, plays the guitars, and some keyboards. Patrick Kennedy plays piano and most keyboard parts. Patrick also provides live Background Vocals. Slade Gibson is a studio only member of Velvet Flare. He has written and played bass, occasional guitar solos and keyboards parts, and has programmed drums. Slade mixed and mastered the songs. ‘Ice Age’ is in in Digital Stores now, The Archetypes EP by Velvet Flare will be released 9th of June 2017. Facebook here.
It would be easy to draw comparisons with other artists with Velvet Flare, however for me, at least they are some of the finest. 'Ice Age' is full of hooks and has something of an eighties vibe to it, alongside a more modern, richer production quality.
Background - The Peace Life are a married couple from Minneapolis, Minnesota who have already established their unique brand of euphoric Folk music through the independent release of two albums and a single. Their latest album 'Jupiter Beach' features seven original tracks with cover artwork designed and hand-painted by Tessa. Jack plays the majority of instruments on the album, including rhythm and lead guitar, drums, percussion and saxophone.
The Peace Life strive to spread positive and peaceful vibrations through their potent blend of retro Folk Rock, Jazz and World Music with a modern twist. With a knack for mind-bending, poetical and meaningful lyrics, O’Connor’s songwriting delves into the mystical cosmos, influenced by the likes of Joni Mitchell, The Grateful Dead, The Beatles, John Lennon, Elliott Smith, King Tubby, Pink Floyd and Radiohead. Facebook here.
From the 'Jupiter Beach' album we have 'Ethenogen'. I love the above description of their music as "euphoric folk" as it has stopped me from trying to come up with a decent enough expression. Take that as their musical anchor point, The Peace Life have a long chain and can drift comfortably into other genres and styles.
Background - Following her self-titled EP, Munroe has announced the forthcoming release of her debut full length Oblivion - out June 16, 2017. Sonically influenced by spaghetti westerns and 60s film scores, the artist also cites the presence and intimacy of vocalists such as Vashti Bunyan and Angel Olsen as musical inspiration. Along with the announce comes the release of the LP’s title track. Munroe says of the track, “‘Oblivion’ is a confessional, or an exploration of confession. I'd been thinking about a whack of material that deals with that territory - some kind of rupture in the space between private and public selves.” She cites crime stories such as ‘The Jinx’ and ‘Serial’ as examples. “I think there's something interesting about a kamikaze instinct; the way we get compelled to do things that are identifiably bad. I had this idea of someone pleading a case for their own damnation, listing all the bad things they'd done, bargaining with a void, and the image of that conversation is what I was playing with here.” Born in Hamilton, ON, the artist now splits her time between Toronto and Los Angeles both acting and making music. Michael Keire (co-producer), Benjamin Munoz , and Anthony Carone (Arkells) were all collaborators on this new record and helped Munroe fully develop her ideas into the final 8 vulnerable and confessional tracks. Facebook here.
Haunting and atmospheric from the beginning, 'Oblivion' is a beautifully crafted song. As a teaser for her debut album, it sets expectations high, that said a song half this good will still be wonderful.
Background - Emerald Portal is the brainchild of Thomas Ouziel and Brad Rundblade, two musicians, who at a young age immersed themselves into all aspects of art. As a sound designer and screenwriter, respectively, their music is heavily influenced by their cinematic backgrounds. Emerald Portal seeks to make engaging music that not only tells stories, but transports listeners. Born in Europe, Thomas from Paris, France and Brad from Crete, Greece, both grew up learning how to play piano and guitar. They each spent years playing music before entering the film industry. Upon meeting on the set of a music video in Los Angeles, where the duo currently live, they found they had a mutual interest in creating music and began working on a number of songs. After a period of creative activity they had written enough material for an album. Each song on their first LP, Beyond The Edge of Reason, was a glimpse into different worlds and stories that all culminated into a grander, overall universe. Using their background in film, the duo created music videos for six of the songs from the album. Emerald Portal works in various artistic fields often collaborating with directors, musicians, and artists to expand their vision and sound. They’ve received numerous awards for their music videos (LAIFFA, Orlando Film Festival, Los Angeles CineFest) and have a new EP, Trouble In Paradise ready for release in 2017. The ambitious band is currently working on three separate concept albums, each another glimpse into the many stories populating the Emerald Portal. Website here.
There are a few artists getting a second feature on Beehive Candy tonight of which Emerald Portal are one. 'One Hundred Twenty' is a slick alt rocker, where the smooth vocals are accompanied by an increasingly powerful and atmospheric soundtrack. If they can continue this momentum, I look forward to featuring them a third time.
Background - Americana-singer/songwriter, Joseph Eid has been writing poetry and dreaming of a career in the arts as long as he can remember. He grew up in the suburbs of New York. Raised in a strict and traditional home, the arts were only supported as a hobby and never as a career. During his college years, Eid studied psychology and pre-med. After his first semester at med school, his dream got too big to hold and Eid made the bold choice of dropping out to move to New York City to pursue music. While in New York, Joseph Eid picked up a guitar, joined a band, and the songs poured out of him like rain. His journey then led to Los Angeles where he started playing regularly at open mic nights and showcases. Shortly after, he began working with world-renowned guitarist/songwriter, David Lamar, honing his songwriting at weekly showcases at the Stone Bar. This lead him to write over 30 new songs as well as record a debut EP, Cardiac Output, followed by a full-length LP, Human. Known as a dynamic solo performer, Joseph Eid has brought his one-man live show to many of Los Angeles’ premiere music venues, including stints at Room 5 and El Cid and residencies at The Stone Bar, Crane’s Hollywood Tavern, and Bar Lubitsch. He has also toured the West Coast including a handful of house concerts as a part of the Concerts In Your Home series. Since the release of his Human LP, Joseph Eid has been garnering considerable buzz. He has been featured in American Songwriter Magazine’s “Best New Music” column and was recently named as one of the 100 Hottest Live Unsigned Artists by Music Connection Magazine. His latest EP, Watch It Fall, is released today.Website here, Facebook here.
It was a case of which song to feature from Joseph Eid's brand new EP 'Watch It Fall' having carried the title track back in February. Thankfully we can embed tho whole piece which comprises of six Americana meets modern folk material, written and performed to a delightfully high standard throughout.
Background - Straight from the city of Cleveland Ohio- the home of The Electric Eels, Albert Ayler, and Screamin' Jay Hawkins- comes the newest sensation in Rock n' Roll. This new sound will make you shake, shiver and smash things up. Teen Punk, by teenagers, for anyone who will listen. This is the real deal, this is HI-FI Organ Punk! "You're My Pacemaker" is a freshly cut track off Archie and The Bunkers' upcoming new LP set to be released in the fall of 2017, on a record label brand that can't be disclosed at this time. To promote their five week European tour next month, they have decided to give the fans a stunning visual taste of the long awaited follow up of their smashing self-titled debut album, released on Dirty Water Records in late 2015. Almost overnight, the band hit a fever pitch that immediately propelled them from a local basement band gigging around Cleveland, into National and International Punk superstars. They embarked on their first ever tour last spring in Europe playing six countries in two weeks, played at the exclusive Gonerfest in Memphis, and were also invited to play at Third Man Records in Nashville. ( Which some selected tunes ended up on a live 7" single just released on Jack White's World famous imprint). The duo will be hitting all the prime Summer festivals and club circuits over the five week journey including appearances at This Is Not A Love Song Festival, Festival Beat, Slap Festival, Relâche Festival, and Eurockéennes Festival. They will be sharing the stage and spotlight with bands such as The Mummies, 5,6,7,8's, The Gories, and even Iggy Pop. Live dates on Beehive Candy's tour page, website here, Facebook here.
I received a promo for Archie and The Bunkers a few months back, and am still puzzling as to why I didn't feature them, at that time. This is savagely potent, raw rock'n'roll. Energised and insane 'You're My Pacemaker' is a vibrant modern punk type song, with a timeless feel.
Background - The Phantom Sound is Marisa Schlussel a Los Angeles native and now London based solo artist whose new song 'Voices' has already been championed by the likes of tastemakers 91X FM in San Diego. The single will appear on Marisa's upcoming second album which sees her working with her long term collaborator, producer Ken Stringfellow (The Posies, Big Star, and R.E.M.). The album features Dale Crover of The Melvins and Nirvana (Bleach album), and Brian Viglione (The Dresden Dolls and Scarlet Sails) and sees The Phantom Sound moving into a harder, edgier territory. 'Voices' provides the perfect introduction to what promises to be a heartfelt, personal and sometimes politically charged Punk Rock record.
Marisa is a musician that rises to a challenge. After taking some time out from music, she returned to songwriting and recording in an industry that in some ways had changed beyond recognition, but her accomplished musicianship and songwriting ability led her to her working with artists who have not only influenced her own work but who have also shaped the creative output of many others around the world. On working as The Phantom Sound Marisa says “My interpretation of it is that it’s a sound that you hear within a mix of other sounds. It may not even actually be there, but your brain just hears it, almost like you are hearing voices… But, in the bigger picture, to me, it personally means a new discovery, something that was lost, and is now found, but in a more beautiful and significant way.” Facebook here.
There are layers of refined sound and emotive and passionate vocals as 'Voices' begins to unfold. Then the whole thing kicks into gear and an earnest rock song urgently demands your attention, and certainly got mine.
Background - Beta Days released their glittery new single, "Settled for Gold", from the upcoming debut album, S.T.T. Beta Days is the one-man project of songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Bill Bierce. The project evolved from Bierce's late night writing sessions that would start around 3 AM, as it was the only time neighboring bands at his practice space weren’t around to drown him out. Sadly, Bierce's mother passed away during the album's mixing, while simultaneously his father occupied a long-term hospice stay from a head wound which had left him in a vegetative state a few years prior. Everything was cast into doubt, but Bierce stayed the course and completed the record mid-2016. The end result is a hazy reflection on idealized youth, relationships, isolation, and the drudgery of adult life. All of this is presented through a prism of evasive lyrics and tightly arranged instrumentation, leaving the listener to draw their own meanings from the songs. Bierce expanded the project into a live band shortly after completing the record, including his ex-Wandas bandmate Keith McEachern on bass. The group has enjoyed the contrast of raw energy with more guitar-oriented live performances. Beta Days debut full-length LP, S.T.T. will be released everywhere June 23rd, 2017. Website here, Facebook here.
'Settled for Gold' is a lo-fi rock song where high calibre musicianship and a sophisticated arrangement, make the perfect backdrop for Bill Bierce's enticing vocals and intriguing lyrics.
Background - Natalie Bouloudis goes beyond heartbreak with the bluesy theatricality of Whirlwinds, a captivating cut from her Dead Sea Scripts EP . ‘Whirlwinds’ emerged out of a break-up song which I decided to go back and revisit once feelings had subsided. I liked the idea of looking back at something which had once felt raw but through time and disassociation I became an editor or an archeologist finding dinosaur bones and putting them back together; never knowing what it really was like when it was alive so it takes on it’s own new story. I also wanted to capture the anger and the crazy storm of heartbreak. The vocals swell into highs and lows like the motion of the howling wind. The song is a heavy blues jam and the most dramatic sounding song on the EP. A native of East Sussex, Natalie Bouloudis first got her musical education in childhood, having played clarinet in jazz bands and had a few guitar lessons at school. From the age of seven she started writing her own music and has been (till recently) a secret songwriter ever since. Having lived in London for the better part of the last decade, she decided three years ago to launch her music into the public sphere under the name Aurora Harbinger. She soon played venues like Servant Jazz Quarters and The Victoria in Dalston, quickly building a loyal fan base that enabled her to successfully crowd fund her debut record. For Natalie, playing live is an important consideration in the songwriting process, a process which focuses centrally on generating atmosphere and intimacy. Her debut EP is her first proper recording and it was all recorded live at Wax Studios in London and produced by Robert Strauss. For Natalie, getting the EP right was dependent on how precisely she could evoke the feelings she had in mind. Though armed with encyclopaedic knowledge of narrative songwriters across the spectrum of folk, rock and jazz, Natalie brings to the table her own brand of atmospheric storytelling. It’s folky in its arrangements, but in terms of sheer vocal delivery she’s a soulful rock and roller, at times calling to mind the visceral and lurching tones of Patti Smith or Etta James. ‘Burning Pier’ may only be her first single, but already it reveals an artist in the classic sense: thoughtful, precise, and led by instinct and imagination. Facebook here.
Third time around on Beehive Candy for Natalie Bouloudis this time with the bluesy 'Whirlwinds' a fabulously passionate and rhythmic piece. It's a little like Natalie Merchant with the energy levels turned up, however having heard her other material this Natalie is definitely carving out her own beautiful sounds.
Background - Leather Girls first unleashed their ferocious style of garage rock upon their hometown of Austin, Texas in 2015 after Erik Camacho (guitar/lead vox) and Mike Garrido (guitar/vox) bonded over their shared affinity for Tropicália, Los Dug Dugs, and Billy Childish. Dillon Fernandez soon got added into the mix (drums) shortly followed by Deborah White (bass/vox). Once a fully gelled unit, they quickly garnered a reputation for their high energy live show and blistering fuzz accentuated with a hint of Texas twang - sharing bills with legends like Holly Golightly, The Dictators, Mr. Airplane Man and becoming a favorite show partner with local heavy hitters Ringo Deathstarr and Holy Wave. Their highly anticipated self titled debut album will be released on June 2nd via Yippee Ki Yay Records, and delivers a range of raw, airy, raucous, high energy rock sounds - much like a brick of $8 firecrackers set off in a metal trash can and then shoved in the trunk of a Chevy Nova that had to be saved up for. Facebook here, live dates on Beehive Candy's tour page.
One of thirteen tracks on the forthcoming album and 'Arabian Daze' signals ahead that you shouldn't expect to sleep any time through the collection. Besides the energy levels, the band create some catchy hook laden songs, in a natural, unpretentious and very addictive manner.
Everything Turned To Color - Everything Turned To Color.
Background - This week Everything Turned to Color share their fourth single, "Everything Turned to Color". The band's forthcoming, debut album, Life Imagined, is due out June 23rd 2017. The 11-track LP was recorded, mixed and mastered by Blake Morgan at ECR Music Studios in NYC. Everything Turned To Color includes brothers Bryan and Kyle Weber, two ex-alt-rock bandmates who co-own DIY tour booking website IndieOnTheMove.com (which services nearly 100K members) and their classically trained neighbor, Neha Jiwrajka, who left a tech job at Google to pursue a Masters in Jazz and vocal performance (her mother is a classically trained Hindustani singer). Starting March 25th, the trio will hit the road for a 24-date tour through NY, CA, PA, VT, MA, ME, CT and NJ. Inspired largely in part by Bryan and Kyle's foray into parenthood, Life Imagined plays heavily on the bittersweet dualities of life and the big questions we all must ask. While much of the music exudes a whimsical lightheartedness in mood and melody, the lyrics dive deep into the fragility and innocence of childhood, the significance of enduring friendship, and the inevitable moments of love and loss that haunt us all. Website here, Facebook here.
Earlier this month we featured 'Invisibility' from this fine trio describing that piece as "an elegant and cultivated modern folk orientated song, where graceful vocals are accompanied by some delicate and exquisite music and subtle harmonies" The self titled 'Everything Turned To Color' pretty much confirms, they have the knack for penning and performing some fabulous music.
Background - Ian Hunter & The Rant Band announce new single ‘Ghosts’ plus June / July UK tour dates. Following on from last year’s fond tribute to David Bowie, ‘Dandy,’ Ian Hunter releases a second cut from his widely acclaimed new solo album, ‘Fingers Crossed.’ A vivacious stomper, recorded at HOBO Studios in New Jersey, and co-produced by Hunter and Andy York, ‘Ghosts’ was inspired by a 2014 visit to Union Avenue in Memphis where Ian and the Rant Band were invited to jam in rock ‘n’ roll pioneer Sam Phillips’ legendary Sun Studio. “I’m like some kid in a candy store – always been a fan It’s all still here – the atmosphere – it’s where it all began” As leader of ‘70s British rock legends Mott the Hoople and as a hugely influential solo artist, Ian Hunter is widely revered as one of rock’n’roll’s most compelling performers and one of its most articulate songwriters. As author of such immortal anthems as, “All The Way From Memphis”, “Once Bitten, Twice Shy” and “Cleveland Rocks” and the voice of such landmark albums as, “All The Young Dudes”, “Mott”, “Ian Hunter” and “You’re Never Alone With A Schizophrenic”, he remains a hero to fellow musicians and fans around the world. ‘Ghosts’ will be released on 9th June 2017 on Proper Records. Live dates are on Beehive Candy's tour page, website here.
Ian Hunter could probably sing my local Indian Restaurants menu and still make it sound gritty and rock'n'roll. 'Ghosts' has a little bit of a blues feel at times, alongside the natural rock vibes and distinct and timeless vocals. Magnificent!
Background - Two weeks before the release of the long-awaited album Punchbuzz, Husky release another gorgeous single, with summer hit "Splinters In The Fire" - one of their catchiest songs yet. Starting out a guitar riff that had been looping in Husky's head for weeks, the line "Splinters in the fire" kept making its way into the songs he was writing. "Something about the ruthlessness of fire - and time", says Husky. "Splinters in the fire, summer days in the smoke" The pair have released a live video for the single, shot in the gardens of an old mansion not far from where they live in Melbourne - a big, rambling place which perfectly suits their warm, yet forlorn sound. "Splinters In The Fire" is part of their upcoming Punchbuzz album, due out on 2nd of June via Embassy of Music. Website here, Facebook here, live dates on Beehive Candy's tour page.
The live session version of 'Splinters In The Fire' is refined, melodic and refreshing. Subtle hooks are everywhere and the band are musically tight and natural.
Background - Brooklyn-based trio Bloody Your Hands have shared new track "Wandering Home". Describing the track as the centerpiece of the album, the band explains it's about "chasing ghosts and dreams from one edge of the country to the other and back again only to realize that you can never really escape yourself." The song is the second single to be released from the bands forthcoming new album, Monsters Never Die, out July 7th. Described as "a rattling frenzy of irresistible power" and "a multi-faceted canvas of all that is likable about twenty-first century indie rock", NYC-based Bloody Your Hands combines solid pop hooks, 90's alt rock instrumentation and driving garage rock - all with an explosive live show. Formed in NYC in 2015, the band features members of The Nightlights and I Am The Heat, and draws from a wide range of influences including The Pixies, Nirvana, Superchunk, Archers of Loaf, Television, The Hold Steady, Wavves and Surfer Blood. They released their debut full-length in 2015 and are currently working on their sophomore release. Bloody Your Hands is Jameson Edwards (vocals, guitar), Henry Joseph (guitar, bass, vocals) and Mike Horaz (drums, vocals), Bandcamp here, Facebook here.
The band pack some power with 'Wandering Home' a song that veers towards garage rock but with enough pop sensibilities to ensure it's one catchy and play me again, type track.
Background - Having been nominated for Denmark’s prestigious Gaffa award for Best Female Artist twice in three years in 2012 and 2014; and having been the recipient of the Bands of Tomorrow ‘Pop Artist Of The Year’ award in 2013, Penny Police’s releases to date have been showered with four and five star reviews across the board that laud her musicality, and her ability to conjure melodies so light, pure and delicately delivered as though they were made from the hydrogen atoms teased from a teardrop. With her personalised brand of poetic and ambient art-pop, Marie Fjeldsted (aka Penny Police) is an artist so steeped in empathy, warmth and humanity you’d be forgiven for thinking she’d seen the inside of your private journal. Her warm, almost whispery voice gently guides the listener through her ballads, songs which are often based on found footage: conversations overheard, television clips - pieces otherwise forgotten. While quick to profess her love for the music of Ane Brun, and coming from an imaginary family tree that might also include Susanne Sundfør and Lydmor at their most intimate, Marie has always drawn inspiration more from her own life than any heroes. She has a unique ability to distil a rainbow of emotions into a few lines, and an uncanny knack for writing songs that cut through the static of life and hit you beneath the ribcage. Writing primarily around the keyboard, that combination of pure voice and lyrical clarity, blended with her own musical eccentricities, keeps on making her new fans. Following one London show last year the NSPCC adopted ‘I Do Care’ as the anthem for their ‘Safe and Sound’ campaign online, and on TV across the UK. New single ‘Fool Like Me’ is a gem of minimal electronics meeting orchestral sounds in a very beautiful mid-point with vocal similarities to Lana Del Ray and follows ‘No Horizon’ which has been gaining P6 plays in Denmark and praiseworthy quotes from the likes of The Line Of Best Fit and Amazing Radio in the UK. Both are taken from the forthcoming highly anticipated ‘Penny Police’ EP due out later this year. Website here, Facebook here.
'Fool Like Me' is a delicious ambient pop song. Melodic vocals float above a layered synth backdrop, and a gentle rhythm is all that is required to ensure Penny Police is fully on our radar.
Background - ALASKALASKA are an art-pop 6-piece from London. They make beautiful, groove-laden music that seamlessly blends jazz, disco, funk and R&B into a bold and playful sound uniquely their own; synthetic beats play alongside live drums, delayed guitars and shimmering saxophones to create something musically rich and delightfully intricate.
Band leader and principle vocalist Lucinda twists brooding and introspective lyrics - akin to the words of Arthur Russell - into infectious melodies reminiscent of Warpaint, Dirty Projectors or Talk Talk, which demand repeat listens and could as easily soundtrack a wistful evening alone as they could a party. They’ve built a cult following and reputation as extraordinary performers through a handful of low-key London shows.
'Bitter Winter', the lead track from their debut EP, and 'Familiar Ways', are the perfect introduction to their brand of off-kilter pop. ‘Bitter Winter / Familiar Ways’ is released via House Anxiety/ Marathon Artists on Monday 22nd May - full EP coming summer 2017. Website here, Facebook here.
The two tracks 'Bitter Winter / Familiar Ways' are my personal introduction to the band. On Bitter Winter it's the vocals that I noticed first, followed by a lush and understated (yet quite intricate) musical arrangement. Familiar Ways is a smoother piece where the vocals and music glide along with each other, until the energy builds and the band demonstrate a more powerful side.
Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark - Isotype.
Vivienne Chi - Vivienne.
