Noonzy - Patterson Hood - Astari Nite - WILDES and St Francis Hotel - Nature TV

Photo - Tone Verswijvel

Noonzy - Mama Mia.

Antwerp-based musician Arnaud Stockbroekx, professionally known as Noonzy, today shares "Mama Mia", the latest offering taken from his recently announced EP Puppies released March 28 via [PIAS] Recordings.

The new single "Mama Mia" showcases a melodica of whirring synth waves, buoyant basslines, colourful percussion all overlaid with sentimental lyrics. Inspired by the warm, euphoric feelings you get when surrounded by friends, and asking yourself “How did I get so lucky to have these amazing people in my life?” Noonzy describes ‘Mama Mia’ as a track that bottles up “the kind of love where you are showering friends with compliments like “You’re the funniest, most beautiful, smartest person ever!” He adds, “the feeling is genuine but you are definitely drunk”.

Comprising five infectious, elegantly crafted avant-pop songs, the EP glides from love-flushed longing (‘Where/When’) to the pleasures and pitfalls of being a lone ranger (‘Fishy’) to a blazing desire for tangible relationships with people (‘Mama Mia’). Impulsively catchy, the songs twinkle and cascade with exuberant expressive basslines and hazy analogue synths, simultaneously evoking the carefree leisure of youth and the spiky anxieties of our modern disconnected age. 

============================================================================

Photo - Jason Thrasher

Patterson Hood - The Forks of Cypress ft. Waxahatchee.

Drive-By Truckers co-founder Patterson Hood has shared 'The Forks of Cypress (w/Waxahatchee)', the latest single (featuring Katie Crutchfield) from his landmark new solo album, 'Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams', arriving via ATO Records on Friday, 21 February 2025. 
 
An official music video – filmed by Bradley Wagner and Juan M. Soria at the historic Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY before Drive-By Truckers took the stage on their Southern Rock Opera Revisited Tour earlier this year and featuring aerial footage of Hood’s hometown of Florence, AL was provided by local pilot John David Apkarian of Wings Over Bama.

“The Forks of Cypress a real place, a few miles just north of my hometown of Florence, Alabama,” says Patterson Hood. “A former plantation house, once owned by a cousin of Andrew Jackson, it was struck by a ‘lightning cluster’ in 1966 – when I was two – and exploded into flames, burning to the ground in under five minutes. All that was left were these huge columns, in a rectangle on top of the hill overlooking the meadow. It was right by a very creepy rickety one one-lane bridge that the locals called Ghost Bridge. I drove past this (and crossed the scary bridge) every week of my childhood on my way to my Great Uncle’s house (where I spent every weekend). Later, as a teenager, kids would drive dates out to Ghost Bridge and tell ghost stories and make out. The bridge was torn down about a decade ago.  
“I wrote the song as pure fiction, inspired by those great story songs that Bobbie Gentry did, an ‘Ode to Billie Joe,’ etc., where she implies a story without really telling it. In my head, I heard Katie Crutchfield (Waxahatchee) singing it with me and was blessed that she was willing to do so. She’s one of my very favorite artists, and such a lovely person. “The song was fleshed out wonderfully by Phil and Brad Cook (who played keyboards, dobro and bass on it), Dan Hunt on drums, and then Kevin Morby put the cherry on top with a stunning lead part. “Whipped cream and cherry.”

============================================================================

Astari Nite - Unisex Games.

Astari Nite is delighted to announce the release of their vivid & unapologetic new video for the track, "Unisex Games". The video and single for "Unisex Games" can only best be described in the words of Astari Nite's vocalist, Mychael:
 
"Unisex Games" was written as a sort of tongue in cheek to the max song. I mean, relationships often find an invasive way of telling you how you’re going to spend your time whether you like it or not, right? So, make it worthwhile, have an imagination or get a hobby and try your luck at painting.

For what it’s worth, anyone I’ve ever come across has helped define my unusual ways to this very day and for that, I will always be thankful." Regarding the music video for "Unisex Games", Mychael goes on to say: "The start of the year was a f**king horror story. My therapist recommended doing something amusing and so I did. My bandmates met me at my hotel, and we played pretend for an hour or two making the “Unisex Games” music video. There is a certain kind of magic that takes place when you can find comfort in the people you surround yourself with. Being obnoxiously silly comes naturally for the four of us.

The happiness that is displayed in the video may help some people put a smile on their face for a moment during these chaotic times. This is why I chose to release the video a few weeks before the actual single that comes out on March 14th."

============================================================================

Photo - Elena Garcia

WILDES and St Francis Hotel - State Trooper.

WILDES and St Francis Hotel today release new collaborative EP Kopfkino, and share a visualiser for previously unheard Bruce Springsteen cover and EP closing track, 'State Trooper'.

"State Trooper is one of our favourite Springsteen songs, but our cover of it came about quite indirectly," explains WILDES. "We were listening to a lot of Suicide around the making of the EP, their drum machines and industrial synths heavily influencing both our work, and Springsteen’s simple, but raw production of State Trooper from 1982. We eventually decided to put our stamp on the song by leaning on Springsteen’s initial inspiration from Suicide, and we ended up with an even darker, grittier, electronic version of this already atmospheric song. It’s an important full stop on the EP, capturing the era we were inspired by and the great artists that have impacted us both as musicians."

Together WILDES and St Francis Hotel bring with them a wealth of critical plaudits, and notable collaborations between them with acts including The Flaming Lips, Little Simz and Michael Kiwanuka.

For new EP Kopfkino, the pair delve into the mind's captivating power, exploring the spectrum of human experience from poignant introspection to exhilarating escapism, sonically noting the influence of 80s synth-pop bands such as Erasure, The Human League, and Depeche Mode, as well as trip-hop artists like Massive Attack and Portishead.

From the stark, brooding art-pop of 'In The Floodlight' investigating personal growth and discovery, to 'Are You Gonna Speak?' which offers a shadowy glimpse into WILDES's soul, with raw cries for connection piercing a backdrop of throbbing synths and driving percussion. The EP's title track 'Kopfkino' explores the blurry lines between fantasy and reality, with WILDES's intoxicating vocals guiding listeners through a soundscape of intense rhythms and atmospheric flourishes.


============================================================================

Photo - Ben Pender

Nature TV - Aways It Goes.

Brighton risers, self professed door to door heartbreak salesmen Nature TV release ‘Aways It Goes’ (Feb 19th), the second single to be taken from their upcoming debut album ‘Unlucky for Some’, due for release May 9th via indie heavyweights Heist or Hit (Her’s / Two Blinks, I Love You / Brad Stank). Released just ahead of the band's first, and almost completely sold out US tour, the band are riding high ahead of their appearance at SXSW 2025.

Building a reputation for their warming alternative-indie sound which overflows with sparkling melody and wistful melancholy, ‘Always It Goes’ perfectly captures the signature sound that sets Nature TV apart—a seamless blend of chilled beach-indie vibes and neo-soul sophistication. Produced by longtime collaborator Solo Major, the track weaves warming, modulated guitar tones with a deep, grounding bass and impeccably tight drums, crafting a soundscape that feels both buoyant and serene as it settles into a gentle groove. Against this restrained yet polished backdrop, the effortlessly melodic lead vocals float with grace, resulting in a track that feels refreshingly vibrant despite its undercurrent of melancholy.

Talking about the single, vocalist Guy explains: “This track is all about reflection. It’s about looking back and having a conversation with yourself about where things ended up for you and how things might have played out differently. Thinking if you had made different choices,or held on to someone else, instead of just letting go of some of the things that you’ve lost, things that could or maybe should have been different. But you’ve made your bed and now you’ve got to lie in it. It’s about making the most of where things are.”

============================================================================

Sara Lew - Genuine Leather - Astari Nite

We don't often link to Spotify however as it's my only source for Sara Lew and her fabulous new single 'Sunday Morning' from the album of the same name, I feel rather obliged to as her music is just so good!

We have a couple of tracks from Genuine Leather's new '2011-2019 Demos, Singles and Live' collection, the band sharing a fine mixture of songs along those lines, as the two we have selected should demonstrate.

Astari Nite return to Beehive Candy for a sixth feature, the bands atmospheric mixture of Gothic and post punk vibes are present as ever, as is their consistent ability to write great new music.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sara Lew - Sunday Morning.

Sara Lew has just released her new album ‘Sunday Morning’ and the title track from it is her new single an epic electro-indie exploration inspired by a visit to Scotland. Sara Lewis Sørensen, who recently expanded her artist name from Lew to Sara Lew, now presents her new album Sunday Morning. Centred around Sara’s expressive vocals and intense melodies, ‘Sunday Morning’ is released on May 24th via Copenhagen-based label HUN SOLO Records.

The eight songs on Sunday Morning take the listener through existential human considerations, all wrapped up in beautifully lyrical sounds and dreamy rock electronica melodies.

The title song ‘Sunday Morning’ describes an encounter with the nature of Scotland, and its exemplification of calm and durability. Sara says: ”Sunday Morning is a story based on a special experience I had when I was visiting The Outer Hebrides in Scotland with my family. The scenery was magnificent.

We lived in a house surrounded by endless mountains full of mystery and surrounded by the Atlantic that daily shifted between the ebb and the flood in the most beautiful way. At ebb the seabed emerged as the finest light sandy beach. I went for a walk out on the sand and suddenly I stood in the middle of a rainbow. The song is based on this experience and describes images from this nature around me. And from there also a line of thoughts built on a relation to and history with another human who had finally found peace and new life.”

On ‘Leave The Shed’ Sara encourages a close friend to dare to step into the unknown and away from the safety net surrounding her. Singles ‘You Said’ and ‘Does Anybody Listen’ show her skill at building the relationship between relevant text and impressive musicality, an ability born of years of song writing experience.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Genuine Leather - Top Of My Heart / Feel It.

Genuine Leather is the brainchild of Texas-based Chris Galis whose been a fixture in the burgeoning Austin scene since 2009. His previous project, Gorgeous Hands, was championed by local press and developed a minor following before the members disbanded to pursue other opportunities. But there was no turning back for Galis. His brain was switched on with visions of distorted, Beatle-esque seventh chords and sweet 70’s California rock.

Genuine Leather was formed by Galis in an attempt to exorcise these creative impulses. The self-produced debut single, “The Viper,” immediately got picked up by the Austin blogosphere, with glowing reviews in The Deli Austin and Pop Press International. Offers for gigs and house shows followed, catching Galis off guard as he had not anticipated forming a live act. To accommodate a live show that would properly reflect the recordings, Galis enlisted 5 of his most trusted compandres to share the banner of Genuine Leather and away they went.

The majority of the band now lives in the same neighborhood in East Austin. Since their inception, they’ve released 2 EP’s, 3 LP’s and tons of B-Sides, all of which have been deconstructed, pulled from and added to comprise the latest release, 2011-2019 Demos, Singles and Live - releasing digitally and on cassette May 24th. The retrospective collection showcases the dynamic trajectory of the band, from ramshackle sessions, recorded while Galis and co. played hookie from work, to newer, more refined material that conjures up the work of Spoon, Mac Demarco and Nick Lowe.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Astari Nite - As If You Were Dead.

Astari Nite presents new single and video "As If You Were Dead", the emotive track is the first to be released from their upcoming EP. Filling our hearts and minds with emotional resonance, Astari Nite is gearing up to deliver their latest single "As If You Were Dead". The mesmerizing track is the first to be released from their forthcoming EP, due out February 2020.

Moving and thought-provoking, "As If You Were Dead" communicates the complexity of loss and death, merging the downbeat tempo, and sorrowful lyrics with a dissonant yet soaring melody. The mournful subject matter is enough to bring any listener to tears, but the track brims with hope and a forlorn optimism:

"Memories of you is better this way/To feel what was then when it was yesterday" sings lead singer Mychael. "Knowing that you can never speak to someone ever again is the hardest part when dealing with death. Never hearing that person speak or seeing them smile in front of you again, sure makes for a gloomy day. Nevertheless, one can only mourn for so long. In time, happiness will come in waves yet again and the memories just might stay a bit longer."  - Mychael

The single, mastered by Jackknife Sounds owner and Actors frontman Jason Corbett, will be released on Danse Macabre Records. 


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

High South - Lightfoils - Talkboy - Gustave Tiger - Astari Nite - Neville & Sugary Staple - The Great Escape

High South - Change In The Wind.

Nashville’s High South dropped their Change in the Wind EP this past Friday. With impressive three-part harmonies (courtesy of vocalists Kevin Campos, Jamey Garner and Phoenix Mendoza), a dedication to songwriting and unwavering optimism, the Nashville-based band High South has developed a dedicated following across Europe, where they’ve been touring regularly since 2015.

Now they’re breaking into the American market with Change in the Wind, a captivating project that draws comparisons CSNY, Doobie Brothers and The Band.

High South teamed with producer Josh Leo, known for his work with Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Kim Carnes, engineer Niko Bolas (Neil Young, Warren Zevon), guitarist Jack Pearson (Allman Brothers Band), keyboard player Tony Harrell (Flying Burrito Brothers), drummer Nir Zidkyahu (Genesis) and singer Raul Malo (The Mavericks) to create the six tracks that make up Change in the Wind. WEBSITE.

High South may draw some notable comparisons with the likes of CSNY and others however this is not without merit. The E.P. 'Change In The Wind' exudes quality, whether it's the vocals and refined three part harmonies, or the musical arrangements that subtly add so much more. Timeless and classy, this is one of those beautiful collections of music to immerse yourself in.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lightfoils - This Time Is Up.

 “This Time Is Up” is the euphoric second single that Chicago’s shoegaze band Lightfoils is sharing ahead of the release of their new album Chambers that’s coming out in a few weeks on 11/16.

“This Time Is Up” pairs frenetic beats with woozy guitars and rattling bass, outlining the breakup of a relationship with a dishonest partner. Anger is the main emotion, until the coda shifts to a slower denouement regarding things not said, or better left unsaid. The enthralling track follows the album’s first single “Summer Nights” (buy/stream), a densely layered, reverb-laden track with a calculated build-up. Formed in 2010, Lightfoils’ sound subtly stretches the auditory boundaries of shoegaze, honing in on a more cosmopolitan and ethereal sound.

Chambers is Lightfoils’ first album since 2014, and represents a band that has mastered the atmospheric tone they've become synonymous with and continue to occupy, almost a decade after formation. Songs like “Duende” sound like a surf rock wave rolling onto darker shores, with the rhythm section keeping an upbeat tempo, keeping one grounded, while the vocals and guitars provide a loss of gravitational control. Frontwoman Jane Zabeth Nicholson’s sublime vocal melodies and the bands’ subsequent sound are reminiscent of classic 90s indie rock that has a touch of grunge, and channels the softness of their shoegaze predecessors. WEBSITE.

We featured Lightfoils last month describing their material as "a combination of atmospheric shoegaze and lush dream pop". Now we have the second single 'This Time Is Up' a powerful and driving song where the music is intense and the vocals slower and melodic, it's an intriguing combination and it works.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Talkboy - Over & Under.

Building on the hype surrounding debut release Mother earlier this year, Leeds sextet Talkboy share their second shimmering offering Over And Under.

An explosive burst of anthemic rock, the band’s follow-up track showcases a whole new layer to their distinctive sound with intense harmonies and potent guitar work drawing further comparisons to indie heavyweights Alvvays and The Big Moon.

With momentum growing outside of their native Yorkshire following accomplished displays on the festival circuit and support slots alongside Our Girl and Bully, the six-piece look well-placed heading into a promising 2019 with two singles down and plenty new material to come.

Discussing Over And Under, guitarist Tim Malkin stated: It’s no secret that we all like a good party in Talkboy but personally, I increasingly get the feeling that I should be having way more fun than I am or that I should be way closer to the people around me than I am. I think that a lot of people go through the motions at social gatherings, to try and keep up appearances or whatever, whereas if they just let go of that kind of stuff they might have more meaningful relationships”. TWITTER.

Talkboy impressed us back in June and the new song 'Over & Under' is another feisty rocker, where momentum and power are superbly matched by some imaginative and addictive two part vocals.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gustave Tiger - The Eternal Return.

The world the multiverse, if you will is eternal. The moment we call “here and now”is but a glimmer on the ocean of endless returns of this exact moment -and also returns of all imaginable and non-imaginable variations of this moment. There is no time as we normally think of it (as a linear movement), the billions of years that pass, they only seem to pass in our quotidian ignorant slumbers. The multiverse brings forever back this day and brings forth days in which in place of my right arm the Holy Trinity shines and I am quoting Spenser's unwritten sequel to the Faerie Queen. Our lives as we experience it are one thread of this fabric, the painted veil, the kaleidoscope -the circles, cycles, or, rather the spirals, the gyres stretch endlessly.A concert favourite of ours, we recorded the song during the summer.I wrote the lyrics after reading The Life of Milarepa.

Gustave Tiger are a Hungarian art punk band formed in 2013. Starting off as a power trio on their first EP, Mitanni Mares (2013), they were quickly joined by the brilliant lead singer Erika Szurcsik for the first LP, At The Idyll’s  End (2014). After touring with the album in Europe and an appearance at SXSW 2015, the band released their second album, Chaste and Mystic Tribadry in 2016. This year, the band released the Video single New Light of  Myanmar, which is a step towards the world of synthesized sound as well as a political statement against nation states.The band’s releases received outstanding reviews locally (best Hungarian album of 2014 and 2016 on  leading  portal  index.hu) and internationally, earning their song Sister Sybaritea feature on the Rough Trade compilation Counter Culture 15 in 2015, as well as radio airplay for the song Thermidor on BBC Radio 1 Scotland in  2017.

They were also invited to European festivals like Noordanpaunkin Iceland, FAMA  Film Festival in Swinoujscie Poland, MENT Showcase Festival in Ljubljana, amongst others. In  contrast to the ambitious production of the  studio recordings and the peculiar aesthetics of the music videos, the live shows are renowned for the immediacy and fire that brings punk t  life. Gustave Tiger has so far toured Europe (appearing in Reykjavik, Laugarbakki, London, Manchester, Liverpool, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Krakow and Warsaw as well as touring the Balkans) and started operations in the US (Los Angeles, San Antonio and Austin at the SXSW festival). Their new album will be released in early 2019. FACEBOOK.

'The Eternal Return' blasts into life as a full on punk rocker with such energy that it's no surprise the band insert a couple of melodic refrains in, otherwise the drummer particularly might suffer from exhaustion before the closing chords.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Astari Nite - Unfulfilled Promise.

Astari Nite is proud to show to the world their video for the song “Unfulfilled Promise." The track is included in the band’s most recent album and produced by Tom Shear (Assemblage 23). The video itself is fraught with meaning, reflecting the lyrics of the song that cover among others, depression and loneliness.

The video, directed by Ileana Escalante & Louis Molden of Blind Beast, features Astari Nite’s trademark aesthetic, haunting and melancholic, blended with surrealistic scenarios that tap into the psyche of someone who is confronting their demons, and dealing with the aftermath of loss and death.

"Sadness and depression comes in many shades and colors. If you can see it, stop and take the time to help. Smiling at someone, or a simple hello, can save a life." –Mychael.

The video, and the message it contains, comes at a time when the social spotlight is on the topics of depression and suicide, with several beloved musicians and iconic performers having taken their own lives in the last couple of years, it brings to light how many of the people we know and love in our daily lives deal with the despair that drives one to become destructive. Too often do we become aware after it is too late, after they are gone. TWITTER.

It's been a while since we featured Astari Nite, however 'Unfulfilled Promise' is not only a gorgeous and atmospheric song, it also carries a message worthy of consideration. The video captures the mood, as their mesmerising post punk with hints of Gothic music digs it's hooks in deep.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Neville & Sugary Staple - Way of Life.

Ska royalty Neville and Sugary Staple are have announced 'Way of Life' as the second single off their new 'Rude Rebels' LP. Released via Cleopatra Records, the album is now available on CD, as well as special clear vinyl with black and white splatter. This record comes in time for celebrations for the 40th Anniversary of 2Tone Records.

‘Rude Rebels’ is full of original upbeat music with vocal statements on life, fashion, love and morals, plus some smooth reggae vibes. It features brand new songs and recordings from Neville Staple, legendary singer and toaster of The Specials and co-founder of Fun Boy Three, and his partner-in-crime Sugary Staple, as well as former Specials' guitarist Roddy Radiation (a.k.a. Roddy Byers).

'Way of Life' features both Roddy Radiation and Ryu Every from Barbdwire. The original video was filmed by Tony Moore / Shelampsee Entertainment and the main feature video, animation & sync were performed by Steve Bowden.

With 2019 being the 40th Anniversary of The Specials and 2Tone Records, this is a timely release. This album follows Sugary Staple’s sold out 'Rudegirl Sounds’ EP and Neville Staple’s ‘Return of Judge Roughneck’ double album, also released via Cleopatra Records.

The Staples are a permanent fixture of the widely regarded and enormously active ska scene in the UK, performing regularly at both clubs and massive festivals. In the Neville Staple Band, who have been actively touring both at home and abroad, Sugary joins Neville Staple to front the band.

Sugary and Neville wrote and produced this rebel-lishious offering, alongside Tom Lowry (The Specials, Neville Staple, Spectrum) at Planet Studios in Coventry, which brings a super blend of punked up anthems, dancehall ska and sweet rebel reggae and bluebeat. BANDCAMP.

Described as Ska royalty Neville and Sugary Staple can hopefully live with that expression, it's not out of place as is demonstrated by 'Way of Life'. With 2Tone Records heading for their 40th anniversary I don't know whether to feel old or just feel pleased that music this good is still be produced and performed.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Great Escape - All You Got Is Gold (Live And Acoustic In Venice Beach).

When you do the diggin' sometimes you just strike that "pay dirt", that rich vein, that golden, magical moment: LA's The Great Escape clearly knocked it out of the park with album's standout cut "All You Got Is Gold"- as it captures everything that makes this band so special.  Hearfealt, touching, and breathtakingly beautiful tune, Ingrid Andersson's powerful voice really shines over the epic arrangement her band-mates Kristian Nord and Malte Hagemeister came up with. 

A bonus treat is their stunningly sparse "Live & Acoustic in Venice Beach" version- the stripped down tune is certainly "goose bump material", crisply recorded in one golden take, one golden moment in Venice, CA.

Widely praised for their genre-smashing approach to song craft, The Great Escape is a three-piece band from Venice, CA, comprised of Kristian Nord (drums, bass, production), Malte Hagemeister (guitars, production), and Ingrid Andersson (vocals).  The band's second full-length "Universe In Bloom", released in 2017, saw them take the raw energy and stomping confidence of their self-titled debut to the next level with massive hooks and catchy tunes beyond genre that could have been recorded at any point in the last 50 years.

The band's eponymous, self-produced debut album came out in 2014 and received much critical acclaim. They are currently working on their third full-length, forthcoming in 2019.  The trio's latest single "All You Got Is Gold" is now available via all streaming-download partners. WEBSITE. 

'All You Got Is Gold' Live And Acoustic In Venice Beach is a fabulous version of the song and news of a third album should have plenty of folk pleased.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Astari Nite - Trip to Dover

Astari Nite - The Girl Who Tried.

Background - Astari Nite have released "The Girl Who Tried", the second single from the "Dreams of Majesty" EP out via Cleopatra Records (U.S.) and Danse Macabre Records (Europe). “The Girl Who Tried” is an instant flashback in time, to the late 80’s, early 90’s dark and goth clubs of London and New York. The track is brimming with with the sounds of synths, backed by a steady, upbeat bass and drum line.

While the music of the single is ready to take the dance floors of the world by storm, vocalist Mychael Ghost’s lyrics float eerily over the track, letting the music guide your body while the words speak to the soul. "The Girl Who Tried" is a track heavily inspired by the New Wave dance movement, it's sound being noticeably influenced by acts such as Depeche Mode and New Order.

The track was produced and mixed by Howard Melnick (Guitars/ Programing), and mastered by Rees Bridges, (Dirty Vegas, Pete Doherty and Tears for Fears) who has worked the whole “Dreams of Majesty” EP with the band.

“The Girl Who Tried is a song about regret and closure. It finalises the story that we began in 2015 when we released The Boy Who Tried. When I close my eyes I picture someone praying while saying these words, however I have no clue if these prayers will ever be answered and by whom to say the least.” -M.G.

Astari Nite is continuing their relationship with artist Sandy Holmes (elemental.eyes) for the cover art of the latest EP, which will also embody the ideas expressed by each song on the album. Website here, Facebook here.

We featured Astari Nite three times last year and the new song 'The Girl Who Tried' is certainly worth a share. So far we have stated that the bands music features "tight rhythms and distinct vocals" "high quality post punk or new wave music" and also "layered and refined". So this time lets add, consistently vibrant and good.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trip to Dover - Fade Into Gold.

Background - A pianist fell in love with a punk girl. People said it wouldn't last. It did. They got married. Then they started a band... Trip to Dover

This Dutch indie-electro duo creates their own brand of alternative dance without losing the edge of a real indie-rock song - Guitar vs DJ. Man vs. Woman. Analog vs. Digital. Or more poetically: "Dave Grohl's twin sister meets a Chemical Brother at a concert of The Naked and Famous."

Trip to Dover is an alternative indie electro duo from the Netherlands that makes driving, melodic songs with elements of rock, 80’s synthpop and DJ-style electronics.

The band was formed in Brighton (UK) by vocalist/guitarist Olga and synth-player Johannes, who moved there after deciding their careers in architecture and politics were not what they were after. Website here, Facebook here.

Some fine rich synths introduce 'Fade Into Gold' and are soon followed by dreamy melodic vocals, and a boisterous rhythm. Put all together and this song is packed with hooks and beauty.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quality Not Quantity: Jess and the Bandits - Astari Nite

Jess and the Bandits - I Don't Dance.

Background - When she agreed to open for Boyzone on their BZ20 tour at the close of 2013, Texan singer Jess Clemmons didn’t realise she was about to embark on the tour that would start the next chapter of her career. Taking her new EP, What If, on the road, she bonded with her backing band and by the end of the tour knew that her music career was not going to be continued as a solo artist. Jess and the Bandits was born.

In January 2014, her single Single Tonight broke onto the to Radio 2 playlist and Jess found herself a loyal, dedicated fan in Sir Terry Wogan, who invited her in for her first Radio 2 session. Covering Glen Campbell’s Wichita Lineman, her rich vocal prompted Sir Terry to state, ‘that was the most fabulous song that I’ve ever heard’.

Taking time to focus on writing and recording the band’s debut album, Here We Go Again, Jess focused her efforts on her regular column for Female First. When the band returned in September 2014 with the single My Name Is Trouble, The Daily Mail praised her as ‘the most powerful voice this side of Adele.’

By the launch of Here We Go Again in April 2015, the band had sold out their debut headline show at Little Rabbit Barn and blown the audiences away at Country2Country. The album stormed to #6 in the Official Country Charts. With the album’s lead single You Can’t Stop Me once again on the Radio 2 playlist, Jess had teamed up with Evans to front their #StyleHasNoSize campaign. Recording the music video to Nitty Gritty, the campaign’s official anthem, Jess revelled in following in Beth Ditto and Chaka Khan’s footsteps as an ambassador for the brand.

2016 also marked the band’s debut headline tour, another summer of festival appearances and the release of a deluxe edition of their debut album, which once again entered the Official Country Charts Top 20, while The Boot and Spotify championed the band’s single Ready Set. Website here.

We have featured Jess and the Bandits a couple of times previously on Beehive Candy, the last time was way back in March. The brand new lyric video for 'I Don't Dance' seems like a good enough reason for another mention, needless to say it's of the fine calibre a growing number of folk are getting use to by the band.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Astari Nite - Lovesick.

Background - Like every year, Astari Nite continues its tradition of releasing new music for the holidays. It is a custom dear to the band and fans alike. This year the band presents “Lovesick” a clean sounding flashback to the celebrated love songs of the new wave and post punk era. The lyrics remind one of The Cure, New Order, while the music is more energetic, with old school guitars and moderns synths.

The single was produced by Rees Bridges who has worked with Dirty Vegas, Pete Doherty and Tears for Fears. The mastering was done by Emily Lazar whose stellar work trajectory includes David Bowie, Depeche Mode, Foo Fighters and Sonic Youth to name a few. "Lovesick is about rejoicing in the memory of those who have passed on in our lives, whether it is someone we know and or admire. I'd like to think of it as a Eulogy or an anthem for saying goodbye." - Mychael Ghost

Formed in 2008, the group consists of Mychael Ghost (lead vocals), Illia Tulloch (Drums), M. Sallons (Bass), Michael Setton (Guitar), and Howard Melnick (Guitar). Signed to (Danse Macabre Records).

Astari Nite has headlined numerous shows, as well as opened up for many national acts such as Peter Murphy, The Psychedelic Furs, ColdCave, She Wants Revenge, Assemblage 23, VOWWS, Modern English, Andy Rourke of The Smiths among many others.

Since forming they have put out five releases; their self-titled Astari Nite (2010), Requiem Mass (2011)Stereo Waltz LP (2014) featuring the singles "Pyramids" and "I.O. 1987", Anonymous (2015) featuring the single "The Boy Who Tried" and Until the end of the Moon LP (2016)

2016 Highlights - The single "Always Like Yesterday" was included in Spotify's Fresh Finds playlist (January). Released a music video for the single "Always Like Yesterday." Released second LP titled Until the end of the Moon (May). Toured the U.S East Coast in support of the album (May). Opened for She Wants Revenge (June). Single "The Boy Who Tried" featured in Everglades Killing Movie. Facebook here, and Website here.

Third time around this year on Beehive Candy for a band who seem to impress me further, with every new song and 'Lovesick' is no exception. Astari Nite again mix tight rhythms and distinct vocals with a simmering power throughout the track.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Genre Wander: Astari Nite - Sian Cross - The Blow - Tribe Royal - Eliza Mary Doyle

Astari Nite - Until the End of the Moon.

Background promo - Astari Nite is proud to bring to the world the music video to the title track of their second, and latest album, Until the End of the Moon. This is the 3rd music video for the album, following the music video for “Always Like Yesterday” and the live shot production for “Joyful Wish” which was shot at Revolution Live in Ft. Lauderdale while the band opened for She Wants Revenge.

Formed in 2008, the group consists of Mychael Ghost (lead vocals), Illia Tulloch (Drums), M. Sallons (Bass), Michael Setton (Guitar), and Howard Melnick (Guitar). Signed to (Danse Macabre Records). Astari Nite has headlined numerous shows, as well as opened up for many national acts such as Peter Murphy, The Psychedelic Furs, ColdCave, Stars, Assemblage 23, Seabound, Modern English, Andy Rourke of The Smiths, Apoptygma Berzerk and De/Vision among many others.

Since forming they have put out five releases; their self-titled Astari Nite (2010), Requiem Mass (2011)Stereo Waltz LP (2014) featuring the singles "Pyramids" and "I.O. 1987", Anonymous (2015) featuring the single "The Boy Who Tried" and Until the end of the Moon LP (2016)

2016 Highlights - The single "Always Like Yesterday" was included in Spotify's Fresh Finds playlist (January). Released a music video for the single "Always Like Yesterday." Released second LP titled Until the end of the Moon (May). Toured the U.S East Coast in support of the album (May). Opened for She Wants Revenge (June). Website here.

Second time feature for Astari Nite (it was back in April we first covered them) and 'Until the End of the Moon' is another fine song. Back then I described the music as "high quality post punk or new wave music", if anything the new song is a little more layered and refined, it's still terrific!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sian Cross - On And On.

Background - Sian Cross stunned listeners with her recent single Tell Anybody. Praised by critics and fans alike, it was made Track Of The Day on Clash, whilst reviewers praised her honest songwriting and exquisite vocals.

During On and On, her character fights for survival on the strip club stage, outwardly dominant but inwardly vulnerable. Her hypnotic vocals switch effortlessly from whisper to yell, against a sonically adventurous backdrop of startling synths and stuttering rhythms. It’s like Banks’ vocals married with FKA Twigs productions. Every listen reveals new layers. Sian will be heading out on tour in November with some talented artists, including a support slot for American artist Mishka Shubaly. Facebook here.

November Tour Dates:
3rd - Servant Jazz Quarters - London (supporting James Beau Barclay)
11th - Basingstoke Anvil - Basingstoke (supporting Sons Of Pitches)
12th - Falmouth Pavilion - Falmouth (supporting Sons Of Pitches)
14th - St Albans Arena - St Albans (supporting Sons Of Pitches)
21st - Cadogan Hall - London (supporting Sons Of Pitches)
23rd - The Rowbridge - Guilford (supporting Miska Shubaly)
25th - Gullivers - Manchester  (supporting Mishka Shubaly)
26th - Slaughtered Lamb - London (supporting Mishka Shubaly)
27th - Robin 2 - Wolverhampton (supporting China Crisis).

It was back at the end of July that Beehive Candy featured Sian Cross, describing her music as "emotional and atmospheric" on that occasion. 'On And On' has all of that, as the song builds (and builds) both with intensity and feeling. I definitely want to hear more!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Blow - Think About Me.

Background - The Blow’s Melissa Dyne and Khaela Maricich have spent the past handful of years deep in the studio, working out their own new way of producing electro acoustic pop. “Think About Me” is the fruit of these labors. The song consists of five tracks, using modular and analog synthesizers plus vocals to create layers of frequency. Through the recording process, the duo have developed their own instruments and processing systems for creating sounds, ending up with a mothership of gear patched together in a a web of cables. No longer employing a laptop in live shows, their songs are now performed as live production.

Dyne and Maricich started their odyssey of recording and producing their own music in the late aughts. They considered working with an outside producer but it soon became evident that the sound they were after was something they could only find together. In 2013 they emerged briefly from their recording odyssey for the release of their self-titled album, The Blow. The album was named “favorite album of the year” by NPR’s Bob Boilen and two of its songs were honored on the New York Times’ “Top Songs of 2013.”  With these encouragements they dove immediately back into the studio to continue pursuing elusive sounds.

Throughout the years of recording isolation Melissa and Khaela fantasized about building a community of other producers to draw inspiration from; they brought these fantasies to life in www.womanproducer.com.

'Think About Me' is a really good example of why there is still plenty of room for experimentation and daring to be different with music. This is a beautifully crafted song that has no hang ups on genres or format, and yet everything holds together, with the vocals giving some anchorage, whilst the sounds dance around.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tribe Royal - Into Golden Waves.

Background - Tribe Royal is a Canadian folk-rock band based in the nation’s capital city of Ottawa. The band was born from the partnership of Terry O’Brien and Chris Kerwin, two aspiring songwriters, and their shared interest in the musical giants of the 20th century. When their bandmates Bram Al-Najjar and Mike Giamberardino joined -- talented and inspiring musicians in their own right -- the resulting foursome created a dynamic relationship that has crafted the band’s sound into the genres it now encompasses.

Tribe Royal’s sound can be described as an alchemic blend of folk music, 60’s British Rock and 90's Alternative Rock. At the core of the Tribe are three unique singing voices that can be layered for 3-part harmony, or woven to create imaginative counterpoints. Their sound and songs have a nostalgic feeling to them, introspective yet vibrant; grounded in the honest experiences and youthful memories.

Since the band’s formation in January 2014, Tribe Royal has earned a reputation as a professional, hardworking and ambitious group. They have released one LP, “Samadhi”, with a second ‘Colours of the Sun’ to be released later in 2016. In just over two years as a group, they have played more than 150 shows in 20 different cities and are currently booking dates throughout the remainder of 2016. Their love for music has connected them with thousands of people of all ages, through small private benefit performances, to large-scale rock venues in some of Canada’s largest cities. With the release of ‘Colours of The Sun’ , 2016 is set to be a pivotal year for the emerging rock group. Website here.

I have to say the new 'Colours Of The Sun' album is consistently refined and enjoyable across all thirteen tracks. 'Into Golden Waves' gives an idea of what is in store for the listener, which I would describe as a mix of folk rock, alt rock and even a hint of Americana. It's all delivered with great vocals and a band who can play.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eliza Mary Doyle - Nothin' To Lose.

Background - When Eliza Doyle’s car broke down in Nashville in 2015, she found herself happily stuck in Music City.  The venerable banjo player and singer/songwriter from Saskatchewan had stopped in to see a festival and ended up enjoying an extended stay, playing in bars and meeting all manner of talented musicians.  Having been on sabbatical to follow her muse anyway, it seemed like fate urging her to keep on the well-worn path to musical fulfilment.

Doyle has had a fifteen-year career in groups, as a solo artist, and as a professional session musician, playing banjo, singing, with not only the banjo, but with guitar, dobro and mandolin. She has released nine full-length albums, won numerous awards, and toured North America and Europe.  Doyle has been a regional finalist in CBC’s Searchlight Canada competition and past winner of Bell Media’s contest, The Next Big Thing.

On her new album It Ain’t What It Seems Doyle’s strong, but wonderfully frayed voice belts out captivating tunes and harmonies. She has the versatility to go from beautiful and melodious songs, to a full on boot stompin’ party scene. With her charismatic high energy performance, combined with outstanding claw hammer banjo, everything about Eliza Doyle’s music rings of an authenticity that takes you straight to the beating heart of folk and bluegrass music. Website here.

Eliza Doyle – It Ain’t What It Seems Tour:
20th- Edmonton, AB. Sewing Machine Factory
21st- Williams Lake, BC. Arts Centre, Arts on The Fly with C.R Avery
22nd- Prince George, BC The Legion, with C.R Avery
23rd- Vancouver, BC. Cafe Deux Soleil with guests Jayne Trimble
25th- Vancouver, BC. The Heatley with guests Jayne Trimble and Bob Sumner
26th- Duncan, BC. Duncan Showroom
27th- Victoria, BC. Wheelies
28th- Victoria, BC, Private House Concert
30th- Parksville, BC, The Realm
November
2nd- Nelson, BC, Bigby Place
3rd- Kaslo, BC, The Bluebelle Bistro
4th- Nelson, BC, The Royal
18th- Winnipeg, MB, The Times Change(d) with The Osmond-Davis Band
December
10th- The Root Emporium, Lloydminister, AB.
13th- The Ironwood, Calgary, AB.
16th- The Bassment, Saskatoon, SK.
17th- The Church Series, Brock, SK.

'Nothin' To Lose' is one of eleven varied tracks on the album 'It Ain't What It Seems'. Eliza has a distinctive voice that just lends itself to these types of songs, and beyond her fine vocals is some superb musicianship. Sometimes soft and slow, other times foot stomping and upbeat the melodies are always there, it's a really good collection of songs.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Midweek Mix: Brutus Begins - Astari Nite

Brutus Begins - Never Fade.

Background promo - Brutus Begins is a solo project by Ricardo Temporao, a Portuguese-Canadian musician writer, and director currently based in Toronto (hailing from Kitchener, ON). Elements of folk are resampled and synthesized, blurring the lines between what is real and reconstructed and challenging notions of what is natural.   

Ricardo has fronted bands for over decade from the New Low, General Staff and Skinny Bitches (which was featured on Alan Cross's blog). In 2005, he released an album under the name “Rick Temporao & the New Low” which received radio airplay across Canada and earned critical acclaim (see below). He has also composed music for films and television (i.e. short films "Dead Wake", "The Visitor", BRAVO television’s "Bravo Playlist" theme song and currently composing for short film "Scales").

Ricardo has directed and edited music videos for award-winning musicians Lily Frost, Cedar Park, and Fast Romantics.  

Recently he has begun his latest and most personal project, Brutus Begins. With influences from Leonard Cohen to Tame Impala and Shuggie Otis to T-Rex, Brutus Begins lives on the edge of a sonic "uncanny valley". The buttons, knobs and wires twist and bleed into something almost human.  Where the copper pierces the flesh is where Brutus Begins. He will be appearing at Canadian Music Week 2016.  His first album "Uncanny Valley" will be released this year.

'Uncanny Valley' comprises of seven quite varied songs. 'Never Fade' starts the whole collection off, giving you a pretty good idea of what's in store. The overall impression I come away with is that, this is a consistently good collection of songs. It is also an example of how electronic music, mixed with natural sounds and instruments really can move in so many different styles and directions.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Astari Nite - Always Like Yesterday.

Background promo - Post Punk, New Wave band Astari Nite unveiled the album cover for their second album titled Until the End of the Moon, due out May 13th via German Label Dance Macabre Records.

"I find Until the End of the Moon to be quite compelling. The maturity of the album resonates throughout and I personally feel that the listener will have a strong image of what in fact is being spoken upon," says lead singer Mychael Ghost.

Formed in 2008, the group consists of Mychael Ghost (lead vocals), Illia Tulloch (Drums), M. Sallons (Bass), Michael Setton (Guitar), and Howard Melnick (Guitar). Signed to (Danse Macabre Records). Astari Nite has headlined numerous shows, as well as opened up for many national acts such as Peter Murphy, The Psychedelic Furs, ColdCave, Stars, Assemblage 23, Seabound, Modern English, Andy Rourke of The Smiths, Apoptygma Berzerk and De/Vision among many others.

Since forming they have put out four releases; their self-titled Astari Nite (2010), Requiem Mass (2011) Stereo Waltz (2014) featuring the singles Pyramids and I.O. 1987, and Anonymous (2015) featuring the single The Boy Who Tried. 2015 Highlights - Headlined Wave Gotik Treffen (Leipzig Germany) Performed with The Psychedelic Furs, released the "Anonymous" EP, released a music video for the single "The Boy Who Tried".

They have performed with The Psychedelic Furs and as far as the featured song goes, there is a similarity. However I thinks that's perhaps down to the distinct (and very good) vocals of Mychael Ghost. Whatever the case 'Always Like Yesterday' is one fine song, that shows that there is still plenty of opportunities to produce high quality post punk or new wave music.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------