Globetrotting: Mel Kay & Liberte - Blaudzun - Slothrust - The Rival - The Beatnic

Mel Kay & Liberte - Upside Down Town.

Background promo - Given she has been involved in music since the age of three, it’s little surprise Mel Kay chose to embark on a singing career. After years of studying contemporary music performance at WAAPA, the 22-year-old is set to release her latest singles ‘Upside Down Town’ and ‘Feel Alright’, both up-tempo tunes, mixing pop, indie and funk.

“I wrote these songs with the intention to empower young women to know their worth,” says Kay. “I want to encourage them to have the courage to stand up for themselves in a society that is often very focused on instant gratification, and objectification. I wanted to write a song about the importance of respect, as we are all intelligent human beings with a deep need to be loved and valued just as we are.”

Inspired by The Browhorn Orchestra, Lorde, Regina Spektor and Kate Miller-Heidke, Kay says she has always loved music that crosses genres. “My aim was to create music that could connect to a wide audience, while also having a very unique vibe and sound,” she said. The collective “we” Kay refers to is Liberté (pronounced “Libert-ae”), the 10-piece band she regularly performs with featuring guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, saxophone, trumpet, trombone and backing singers.

“The main challenge with recording was making sure we were prepared before we went into the studio and of course also matching busy schedules up with 10 working musicians to take into account,” says Kay on the recording process. “They are all incredible musicians and I am so stoked to be able to work with performers of their level.”

While studying at WAAPA for four years, Kay performed in multiple showcases at the Ellington Jazz Club, The Rosemount, The Geoff Gibbs Theatre, and The Laneway Lounge with a mix of original and cover bands. In 2014, she recorded her first single ‘Lonely Now’ which received commercial airplay and was voted top ballad on CD Baby. “Upside Down Town” by Mel Kay & Liberte was just released on the 7th of October 2016. Facebook here.

Beyond the fine vocals and splendid harmonies 'Upside Down Town' is a great tune that's full of top quality musicianship along with a hooky and melodic overall feel.

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

Blaudzun - Jupiter.

Background - Almost two and a half years after the release of his successful album ‘Promises Of No Man’s Land’, Blaudzun returns with his new album ‘Jupiter’. His fifth full-length release, ‘Jupiter’ will be an album in three parts. Blaudzun explains: "My new album is a tryptich; a collection of songs released in three separate parts. These parts will be recorded at different times and studios. It’s really a work in progress, and that’s how it’ll stay until the final part has been released. Part I is now finished, but parts II and III are still in the works."

Blaudzun received a gold record for his third album 'Heavy Flowers' in the Netherlands; follow up 'Promises of No Man's Land' reached the #1 position in the Album Charts.

The band played several European festivals like Hurricane and Southside Festival (Ger), Bravalla (Swe), Rock Werchter and Pukkelpop (Be) and Lowlands and Pinkpop (NL), as well as CMJ and SXSW in the USA. Website here.

Title track and one of nine songs in this collection 'Jupiter' gives a feel for the music, where the rhythmic beat is often there,  with differing levels of dominance, whilst subtle melodies and twists are never far off either.

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

Slothrust - Like A Child Hiding Behind Your Tombstone.

Background - Slothrust has debuted their newest video for "Like A Child Hiding Behind Your Tombstone". The band will release "Like A Child" along with their previous single "Horseshoe Crab" on their upcoming album 'Everyone Else' due out 10/28 on Dangerbird Records. With their long-awaited third album Everyone Else, Slothrust deliver ten riveting anthems that reward repeated listens. The songs grab the ear and pierce the psyche with complex arrangements and lyrical depth intensified by guitarist/vocalist Leah Wellbaum’s penetrating vocal delivery. 

Slothrust is Wellbaum, Kyle Bann (bass), and Will Gorin (drums). The trio first staked out their unique strain of jazz- and blues-afflicted rock as students at Sarah Lawrence College. The band’s 2012 debut Feels Your Pain, and its successor 2014’s Of Course You Do, established the band as a breed apart, serving up deceptively clever epics that veer satisfyingly between incandescent riffing and pop hooks, winsome anxiety and powerful heft.

“People have always had trouble comparing us to other bands, but someone recently described us as Nirvana meets Wynton Marsalis, and I loved that,” says Wellbaum. Even the band’s name inspires a beat of thoughtful consideration as the eyes take in the letters and the brain makes its snap judgement: Slo Thrust? Slot Rust? Slo Trust?  Sloth-Rust.

We all studied jazz and blues, so I often use chords and voicings that aren’t quite as conventional for contemporary rock,” she continues. “Certain harmonic movement can get stale, so I try to incorporate colorful notes to give it more depth. The improvisational spirit of blues music is also something we try to always keep with us, even in more composed playing. I am drawn to musicians a bit further outside of the rock tradition, such as John Fahey, Elizabeth Cotten, D'Angelo, and Portishead. Growing up I listened to a lot of R&B and classical music. And musicals." Website here.

Tour Dates (With Highly Suspect)
10.13.16 - St. Louis, Mo @ Delmar Hall
 10.14.16 – Nashville, TN @ Cannery Ballroom
10.15.16 – Little Rock, AR @ Metroplex
10.16.16 – Dallas, TX @ Trees
10.20.16 – Austin, TX @ The Parish
10.21.16 – Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live Studio
10.22.16 – New Orleans, LA @ Gasa Gasa
10.23.16 – New Orleans, LA @ Gasa Gasa
10.27.16 – Washington, DC @ Black Cat
10.28.16 – Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer
10.29.16 – New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
11.1.16 – Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade (Headlining)
11.3.16 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Rex Theater
11.4.16 – Asbury Park, NJ @ House of Independents
11.5.16 – Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage
11.6.16 – Salisbury, MD @ Headquarters Live
11.9.16 – Holyoke, MA @ Gateway City Live
11.10.16 – Cambridge, MA @The Sinclair
11.11.16 – Portland, ME @ Port City Music Hall
11.12.16 - Clifton Park, NY @ Upstate Concert Hall
11.16.16 - Cincinnati, OH @ 20th Century Theater
11.17.16 - Grand Rapids, MI @ The Stache
11.18.16 - Chicago, IL @ Bottom Lounge
11.19.16 - Flint, MI @ The Machine Shop

Don't be fooled by the gentle start 'Like A Child Hiding Behind Your Tombstone' mixes in you face rock'n'roll and softer introspective moments, as the song twists and turns before coming fully together as one wonderful track.

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

The Rival - Wanderer.

Background - Nashville alt-rock duo The Rival has released its new EP, Sands, making the collection available now at all digital stores.

This independent release via The Love Library marks the second in a trilogy of EP’s The Rival is releasing in 2016 and 2017. "Within a year we are releasing three five-song EPs," explains Allen Salmon of The Rival. "Waves was the first release, and we are following that up with Sands and Peaks. Each EP will focus on a different topography and different emotions. Throughout Sands there are several themes of wandering, running, and being lost that we felt spoke to us in a desert setting. 'My Own Devices' specifically speaks to wanting to find a way home, of being a bit lost." Years ago, lead vocalist and guitarist Phillip LaRue was in an accident and nearly lost use of his arm. The injury caused him to question whether he wanted to play music at all, and it wasn’t until he began to regain use of his arm that he realized music would always be a huge part of his life.   

As The Rival, Phillip and Allen have two previous releases including 2012’s self-titled debut, and 2014’s Endless EP. The band has seen incredible TV/Film success with its songs used in everything from Apple’s iPhone 5 launch, to commercials for Target, Nike, Sony, Microsoft, and ESPN. Individually, Phillip and Allen have numerous songwriting credits including Phillip’s #1 country hit “Whiskey In My Water” performed by Tyler Farr, plus Allen Salmon’s credits as a producer, mixer, and writer which includes collaborations with MuteMath, Fleurie, Katie Herzig, and Neulore among others. Facebook here.

We featured a preview song from the new 'Sands' EP back in August, and noted at the time the just how well the duo mixed melody, choruses and the power, rock duo's can deliver. 'Wanderer' pretty much confirms they can do this over and over, as it typifies the real quality found in their latest release, an EP well worth hearing in full.

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

The Beatnic - A Window On Your Soul.

Background - Nic Evans, from Shrewsbury , is a Singer, Songwriter and Guitarist whose songs have been played on BBC National Radio by legendary DJs' John Peel, Steve Lamaq and Johnny Walker.

During a varied career in the UK music business which has included working in the studio alongside Dave Anderson ( Hawkwind ), Nic has played tour supports to Robert Plant ( Led Zeppelin), Eddie Reader ( Fairground Attraction) and Mick Taylor ( The Rolling Stones ).

As well as being previously commissioned as a songwriter for Warner Bros Music, being produced by Jeff Knowler, who has produced and worked with, Blur, Paul Weller, Elbow and Goldfrapp, Nic has also written and recorded for the BBC Library, genre:- Folk/Pop/Alternative, and has also recorded music for publishers, for use in TV and Films. The new EP was released through Nub Music (Distribution via The Orchard) 17 September 2016.

The brainchild of Nic Evans aka The Beatnic, 'A Window On Your Soul' is the title track of what is a superb four song EP. With a CV like the one above, you might expect good things, however Nic seems to prefer to exceed expectations. All I can say is feel free in joining me checking out his music in greater detail, Ive not been disappointed yet.

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

Five On Wednesday: The Rival - Catch Prichard - Swaai Boys - Magic Trick - Unity Floors

The Rival - My Own Devices.

Background promo - The Rival Unveils New Single; Announces EP. Nashville alt-rock duo The Rival has unveiled the first single, "My Own Devices," from its upcoming EP, Sands. "My Own Devices" was premiered by Substream Magazine which says the track is a, "...massive new jam..." and that Sands, "...offers huge indie rock anthems, catchy choruses, and softer, elegant moments strewn throughout. We can tell you confidently that it’s a release you’ll want to visit repeatedly this fall."

"My Own Devices" will be commercially released and available at all digital outlets on August 26. The Sands EP is slated for release on October 7.

The band wrote the track from the perspective of a, "...family member that has been through hell with their partner and it’s been difficult to watch. We wrote ‘My Own Devices’ by putting ourselves in their shoes, imagining what it must feel like to try and fix what is broken and get back to that sense of home. Musically, we wanted to pay tribute to some of the great ’90s albums we grew up with, from Jeff Buckley to Weezer, and experiment with a sound that felt like home to us."

Sands is the second in a trilogy of EP’s The Rival is releasing in 2016 and 2017. The first EP, Waves, featured an electronic, synth-heavy, sound that reflected an upbeat summer vibe. On Sands, the duo showcases some of the most raw and intense tracks Phillip LaRue and Allen Salmon have arranged together. Since forming in 2012, The Rival has seen incredible TV/Film success with its songs used in everything from Apple’s iPhone 5 launch, to commercials for Target, Nike, Sony, Microsoft, and ESPN. Individually, Phillip and Allen have numerous songwriting credits including Phillip’s #1 country hit “Whiskey In My Water” performed by Tyler Farr, plus Allen Salmon’s credits as a producer, mixer, and writer which includes collaborations with MuteMath, Fleurie, Katie Herzig, and Neulore among others.  

It's not to surprising that an alt-rock duo will come across powerfully, there is usually far more distinction between the instruments for starters.  'My Own Devices' has that power, however you can add in melody an attention grabbing chorus and emotion within this song. The Sands EP sounds very promising.

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

Catch Prichard - Eskota.

Background - Steeped in Americana, and with a voice that simultaneously conjures Anohni and Leonard Cohen, Catch Prichard is the work of Sawyer Gebauer. He spent several nomadic years living all over Europe and touring in support of his previous project Brittsommar, including stints in Sweden and a dilapidated warehouse in Berlin, before returning back to the US to work on the Eskota EP.

The entirety of the Eskota EP was laid down in one week within the walls of an abandoned grocery store… when he and engineer Brad K. Dollar first arrived, the building was overrun with wasps, and rattlesnake skins littered the floorboards. In time, the space was reclaimed, night fell, and recording began. Sawyer set out to record a collection of sweet and simple songs that exalt narrative as much as they do melody.

The result is Eskota, a five song EP resting somewhere between languid folk and forlorn country, with Sawyer’s weighty baritone gliding over pedal steel and Moog like an oil slick on water. Eskota, like all of Sawyer's work, is a testament to change, but it is change that can be found closer to home.

Beyond the delicate folk/country acoustic music, the first thing that grabbed my attention on this song are the deep and graceful vocals of Sawyer Gebauer. 'Eskota' is one of five Root's type songs and all of them in my opinion, absolutely demand you stop what your doing and listen. That a musician in a genre such as folk or country can continue to surprise or even amaze is quite something, I reckon Catch Prichard has just done that.

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

Swaai Boys - Dana Of Dendur.

Background - Swaai Boys are proud to announce the newest crumbling desert pop single off their upcoming collection of songs Hot Sand! Dana Of Dendur is based on a love story from Swaai Boys' percussionist Helmut's youth. The Temple of Dendur is an intact Egyptian temple housed in the Sackler Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where a high school girlfriend of Helmut's had a summer internship. Her name was Dana. Helmut said she was tasked with categorising hundreds of shabtis in the galleries near the temple -- Egyptian Blue funerary figures -- which was apparently very boring and lonely.

The Swaai Boys were having a few mai tais at the museum's roof garden one summer afternoon when Helmut told his fellow Swaai Boys about the affair -- Helmut would meet Dana at the end of her shift, they would cut the lines, sneak into the temple, throw pennies in the water, and make out under the palms.

Often staying until the museum closed, Helmut and Dana would wander the wing looking at Queen Nefertiti's jewelry and crumbling pharaoh sarcophagus's. At one point, Dana said she knew hieroglyphs, and tried to decipher the insanely long Book of the Dead papyrus which lines a corridor there. They were in paradise, but was all too good to be true. They drifted apart after the summer, and Dana left a fond hole in Helmut's heart. A few weeks later Helmut ran into Dana at an opening at the Hemingway Gallery on 55th Street. She was quite cold and aloof to him. Her wealthy, stuffy parents had never liked Helmut, and she seemed to have grown into the mold.

Swaai Boys 'Dana Of Dendur' is about foiled young love -- how funny and sad it can be watching people grow up and change, sometimes in such a short amount of time. Especially astute in the shadow of a 2000-year old temple preserved immaculately under stippled glass that mimics its original Nubian lighting.

'Dana Of Dendur' is three minutes of bliss. If the story line above doesn't get you, the song should do. The band are members of the renowned Explorers Club, and if their explorations create songs like this, then keep on exploring and charming us please!

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

Magic Trick - Forest Of Kates.

Background - Magic Trick shares two new tracks from new LP. And it’s a wide variety of shapes you’ll find on this album. Take this less as a conscious display of versatility (although it does demonstrate Cohen & Co.’s ability to shape-shift) and more as a result of the freewheeling, haphazard recording environment described above. A ghostly choir of female voices open the album like a seance. And the spirit they conjure proceeds to flit about over the course of the ensuing ten tracks, animating various stylistic forms, from the baroque pop of “Forest of Kates” to the icy post-punk of “I Held the Ring.” There’s the air-tight R&B groove of “Startling Chimes,” the krauty “Purest Thing,” a jammy side-to-side trot that moves “First Thought” along, taking a detour into country before culminating in a glorious Grateful Dead indebted coda. But throughout, it’s Tim’s lyrics that are pushed to the front of the mix. This album is a display of solid songwriting – collectively fleshed out, but from Tim’s composition book, and with Tim’s lyrics about family and about himself. These songs are the sound of his friends helping him suss through the conflicts of his new dual existence as father and musician, between old self and new.

Magic Trick’s 2013 offering, River of Souls, opens with Cohen asking, “Should we live from the mirrors other side?” Maybe, what you have here on Other Man’s Blues is an attempt to do just that. You can hear that his scope is widening, is being forced to widen by his circumstance. These songs are full of empathy. They reckon with notions of sacrifice and devotion, acknowledge the “winds of desire” and admit that “musings come from below” like a force of nature. Our protagonist is mid-transformation or maybe even pre-transformation. He is able to “regard his gruesome self” only because he is becoming a new man. Both sides are present. Which is the Other Man? Who is Tim Cohen? What is this magic he is trying pull off? Is it a trick? Or true sorcery? Either way, he must evolve.

'Forest Of Kates' is our second song feature for Magic Trick from the forthcoming album and it's another really fine song. Full of melody, exquisite harmonies and beautiful vibes, it compares well with the other track release First Thought which you can also check out Here. The album is eagerly awaited.

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

Unity Floors - Give and Take.

Background - Mates for a decade Gus Hunt and Henry Gosling have made themselves a strong part of Sydney’s DIY scene as Unity Floors. Their ability to create such a racket performing modestly on guitar and drums, has gained them respect in the scene and make them welcome regulars stages across Australia.

Their commentary of the banal happenings as twenty something’s comes naturally to the pair, their music like a noisy catch-up between old mates. Having never lended their talents to other bands, Unity Floors’ sound has natural fluidity, delivered fast with genuine familiarity and honesty. Their unique set up and ability to create vastly accessible, skuzzy garage tunes has gained them a loyal fanbase over the years.

Their debut LP, Exotic Goldfish Blues (Popfrenzy Records 2013) received great commendation from press and radio and even, surprisingly a feature in The Inbetweeners Two film with their hit single “Nice Fit”. In 2016, the Sydney favourites returned to the studio to record their new album with producer Nick Franklin. Life Admin is the result and once again it showcases the boys’ ability to belt out one great honest and crappy tune after another. 'Life Admin' is released on Friday 23rd September on Popfrenzy Records.

Live Dates:
Saturday 8th October 2016 - Brisbane Hotel, Hobart TAS 
Saturday 22nd October 2016 - Old Bar, Melbourne VIC 
Friday 28th October 2016 - Chippendale Hotel, Sydney NSW

Another powerful duo Unity Floors song 'Give and Take' has a back to basics feel to it, cutting out everything but guitar, drums and vocals and creating some very decent indie rock. It's highly likable as is the video.

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