Monthly Archives: May 2017

Alt Rock, Indie, Indie Psychedelic, indie rock, New Music, psychedelic

Strange Cages ‘Leader Of A Cult’

Strange Cages are set to make their return with an epic new EP this June. With their frenetic, snotty, psych-surf rock ‘n’ roll sound in the vein of The Cramps or Ty Segall, Brighton’s Strange Cages have made big strides in their short existence, gaining support from the likes of Clash Magazine, NME, Q Magazine, The 405 and The Line of Best Fit, whilst tearing up stages in support of King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Night Beats, and Boogarins. Having followed up their Theo Verney produced debut ‘Desert’ with their next release ‘Pony’, the trio are now set to release a new 6-track EP ‘The Cracks’ on Vallence Records this June, with new single ‘Leader Of A Cult’ being the first track to surface from the upcoming EP.
‘Leader Of A Cult’ is a dark sinister track all menacing with spine chilling elements of krautrock combined with post-punk. Floppy wobbly riffs smothered in sultry psychedelia create a tranquillised dreamy half passed out state of delusion. Punchy drums and foreboding vocals create an eerie creepy vibe within the musical hallucination. Its like a 60’s trippy dream that has taken a dark perilous turn into a shaky paranoid nightmare. The track becomes more intense with fuzzed distortion perfectly placed like a mind boggled unfortunate soul frothing from the mouth on the cusp of a seizure. ‘Leader Of A Cult’ is a stirring opaque mind-bending trip sweltering in sticky psychedelia that will have you in a hazy paralysed daze . These guys are a band to get excited about.
You can catch Strange Cages live at
19 May – BRIGHTON – The Globe
20 May – MANCHESTER – The Peer Hat
22 May – BRISTOL – Crofters Rights (w/ Vulgarians)
23 May – LONDON – The Old Blue Last (w/ Vulgarians)
25 May – HULL – The New Adelphi
27 May – NOTTINGHAM – Rock City (w/ Vulgarians)
28 May – LEEDS – Eiger Studios
Watch the video for ‘Leader Of A Cult’ below


Folk, Indie Folk, New Music

Delta Howl ‘Reach The Shore’

Grant Ashman and Mark Neat who are collectively known as Delta Howl are set to release their debut single ‘Reach The Shore’ this Friday. The duo who both grew up in Dudley recorded, mixed and mastered the track in their own studio. It’s the first single off a five track EP which is due to be released in the summer. ‘Reach The Shore’ is a foot tapping clap along friendly track wrapped in warm nostalgic tones. This track bops along with a chirpy spring in its step. Simple yet effective with mellow acoustic guitar jingles and hand clapping feature it glows with bright qualities and a honeyed melty melody. Sweet county twangs create a cosy camp fire atmosphere while soothing passionate vocals give a snug toasty comforting quality. Bursting with raw emotion this catchy track leaves an imprint in your mind and will have you swaying and singling along in no time.

Watch the video for ‘Reach The Shore’ below


Indie, Indie Quick Picks, indie rock, New Music, Pop Punk, Singer/Songwriter

Indie Quick Picks

Jamie Martin

 

Genre: blues/soul/rock singer-songwriter

Bio: The young artist and producer from Glasgow fuses indie and soul songwriting with modern blues rock guitar heroics. Influenced by John Mayer, Ben Howard and John Martyn and known for his combination of honest and intimate live shows, Jamie offers a unique, multi-layered interpretation of the traditional solo singer-songwriter. His introduction to a music career began with production and engineering, experience which he is now utilising with his own sonically diverse and innovative recordings which recall Bon Iver and recent City & Colour albums. Following the release of his debut self-titled EP last year, Jamie played high profile shows at prestigious Glasgow venues King Tut’s, ABC and The Garage and blew away audiences at Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Jamie will be playing more live dates with his backing band this Spring and Summer.

Track: What’s The Use

When asked about the track Jamie said :
“I originally wrote this song about being divided from someone at the end of a failing relationship, but it since took on a more generalised meaning – that basing your views and definitions of right and wrong without a contrasting viewpoint splits us all into our own little self-curated social circles. Sonically, I wanted the song to follow the bleak sentiment of the lyrics with distortion on just about everything.”

Why we Like It: Its a heart wrenching passionate bluesy piece of melancholy alt. soul. With gripping yearning vocals and emotion stirring sharp guitar. Its an eloquent piece of musicianship that drips heavy doses of passion and longing from every note.

You can follow Jamie Martin on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/jamiemartinmusic/
Stream ‘What’s The Use’ below

 

The Indigo Project

Genre: indie-punk

Bio: In the two years since forming, the young 5-piece have played Leeds & Reading Festival, wowed an 8000-strong Millennium Square crowd, supported The DMAs, Ocean Colour Scene and The Sherlocks and built a fervent local fanbase with a string of sold out, exuberant headline shows.
Track: Taste It

When asked about the track frontman Joe Spink said :
“Taste It is a song about wanting someone desperately, despite the fact that you know it’s a bad idea, That person could be almost within arm’s length, but also just out of reach – so close you can almost taste it.”
Why we Like It: Is a blistering catchy piece of indie punk. Soaked in luscious bright vibes and blazing guitar hooks this anthemic track is perfect for festival singalongs. With a sultry pre- chorus followed by a massive infectious sun soaked chorus, its instantly likeable. These guys are ones I’m sure we will be hearing a lot more of.
You can follow The Indigo Project on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/indigoprojectuk/
Watch the video for ‘Taste It’ below

Follow Our Indie Quick Picks Playlist On Spotify Here 

 


Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music

Neon Atlas ‘Move In Circles’

Cork based Indie band Neon Atlas have announced their return with a new single; ‘Move In Circles’ which goes on general release June 8 2017. This track is guitar driven indie riding in on a wave of sunny surf pop that has been chilled and given a smooth aerial vibe. Bright dazzling guitar adds a perky whiz and sting while the soft beat and ethereal soundscapes give a feathery light texture and heavenly vibe. Lo- fi vocals softly coo with a soothing creamy quality while the backing vocals lull you into a stupor. This track has a laid back sun soaked effortless vibe that is sublime and so easy to listen to . Tight polished production makes this track flow seamlessly and satisfyingly with a flawless finish.

‘Move In Circles’ is lifted from their forth-coming and yet untitled 3rd album due toward the end of 2017. In the meantime, the band will be touring nationwide, and playing this year’s Indiependence and Townlands Carnival Festivals.

Stream ‘Move In Circles’ below


electro - rock, Electronic, EP Review, Indie, Indie Psychedelic, New Music, psychedelic

Freak Static ‘Lustless’ EP

One man alternative singer-songwriter Freak Static has released his debut EP ‘Lustless’. After an intensive two years of writing, recording and producing, this 3-track is just a preview of whats to come. After playing as part of a band in the past, Freak Static decided to experiment with a solo project. Taking inspiration from the rise of DIY artists such as Tame Impala, UMO and St Vincent, the EP is entirely self-written, self-recorded and self-produced. ‘Lustless’ was recorded throughout the night whilst juggling a full time job. As a multi-instrumentalist, Freak Static played every instrument used for each track and now aims to inspire other musicians and artists to use the technology available to achieve their dreams.
‘Lustless’ is a three track groovy psychedelic tinged braid mingled and merged with swirling bright electronics. ‘King Kong’ is our first shot of Freak Static’s funky twisted coagulated sound. Soaked in strut-like swagger and infectious beats this track bounces with jagged hops. Eccentric electronics bleep and bloop while the track flows in a reggae-like groove and cool persona. ‘Forget Her’ follows as a slower chic passionate track. Heavier drum beats with distortion on guitars add an aggressive vibe to the track. Its a shaggy spiky track smoothened off with a zesty sensual guitar solo. ‘Snooze’ is the final track on the EP beginning with a delicate twinkle and soft vocals that build and become more dynamic. It creeps in like the soundtrack to an eerie horror movie and then brightens becoming light and silky. This fuzz filled powerful track croons with sorrow filled tones that progress into vibrant peppy animation. Coated in distortion with a dub step feel it’s a mighty meaty finish to an exceptional EP.
Now that the EP is completed, Freak Static is embarking upon the process of figuring out how to take his act live whilst remaining authentic. So keep an eye out for his live shows they  are sure to be extraordinary.
Stream ‘Lustless’ below


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Wolves of Youth ‘It’s Not For You’

Wolves of Youth are a four piece indie rock band from Donegal, Ireland. The band consists of members Garry Doherty (Lead vocals/Guitar), Stephen Shelly (Lead Guitar), Ciaran O’Reilly (Bass/Vocals) and Daniel McGettigan (Drums). Wolves of Youth’s lively energetic performances and catchy tunes have already garnered them a lot of attention. The band have been relentlessly touring throughout the country since their formation, playing venues up and down the country supporting bands such as, The Academic and the Strypes as well as Festivals such as Electric Picnic, Indiependence and Sea Sessions to name but a few. The quartet have recently been in the studio with renowned producer Philip Magee(Kodaline,The Academic,The Blizzards, Hero’s in Hiding) and released their single ‘Say Something’ in November last year. The single which we featured on Indie Buddie has received air play on national radio stations and the band where recently invited to 2FM for a live studio 8 session on The Eoghan McDermott Show. The band have already been announced to play at Sea Sessions and Bare in The Woods this year, and have today released their new single ‘It’s Not For You’
‘It’s Not For You’ is a deeply rich melodic song brimming with true passion and commitment. Swooning verses lead into a mighty chorus that invokes the image of a thousand festival lighters held aloft and swaying. Intensely emotional the track builds to a powerful warm hearted crescendo. Steady heavy drums accompany the verse becoming more aggressive and punchy for the chorus. Warm mellow guitar twinkles in and out adding sharp bright flickers of light. The guitar solo really shines with glorious scintillation lifting the track into a sublime ethereal state of bliss. Raspy passionate vocals add a stirring rich quality and rugged texture. ‘It’s Not For You’ is another stunning track from Wolves of Youth as these guys show their sophisticated and proficient yet intensely emotional musicianship.
Watch the video for ‘It’s Not For You’ below


Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Tropical, Tropical Indie

Julian Fulton ‘Rosie’s Disposition’

Multi-talented and eclectic NJ-based songwriter Julian Fulton has released his new EP ‘Battered Receptions’. Mustering up the courage to first perform at age 17, Fulton has been making strides in and around the vibrant local scenes of the Garden State performing solo and with his band The Zombie Gospel. The EP follows another shift for Fulton as he took the opportunity to collect his thoughts, write, and demo material as members of The Zombie Gospel pursued school or job opportunities. This led to the release of two home-recorded EPs, ‘Reverie’ and ‘Noise’. The EP finds Fulton back in a more formal recording environment fleshing out the breadth of his sound. The ‘Battered Receptions’ EP is his latest genre-bending vision, and was released yesterday via self-release.
‘Rosie’s Disposition’ was the latest single release taken off the EP. This bubbly indie pop track is lushly indulged in buoyant indie afro-beats and beaming bright soundscapes. A rapid deluge of tongue twisting lyrics introduce us to this vibrant catchy track. A flood of rich tropical sounds sweep you up into a juicy heavenly chorus that is so catchy you will be hooked. With distorted elements and fruity music explosions it’s a succulent slushy of indie pop. Sharp guitar jabs adds a refreshing zest and sting to this sun soaked infectious mouthwatering track. It’s a must listen especially on a hot sunny day. Fulton displays some really impressive musicianship here, hes one to watch out for.
Stream ‘Rosie’s Disposition’ below


Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music, Rock and Roll

Nash ‘CK’

London-based singer songwriter Nash has released his debut EP ‘She Don’t Know’. Recorded at the legendary RAK Studios, ‘She Don’t Know’ has the feel of 60s rock but with a modern twist, Listening to the Beatles and Jack White growing up and being influenced by their melodic sentiment and dirty sound, Nash started working with producer JB Pilon in 2016 to record his debut EP. Nash uses a 60s vibe to speak about love and every dimension of it that he went through. Euphoric and playful, angry and noir-esque, his music is an introduction to the desperate escape of a young professional in rock music.
The leading single ‘CK’ is an infectious groovy track smothered in playful energetic vibes. This nifty track exudes swagger and exuberant flamboyance. Punchy drums pound through the track with relentless bounce and stamina while razor sharp zesty guitar shreds with a blistering strut quality and fire. Its that slick spirited track that seeps effortlessly cool panache and charm. Its high energy and infectious chorus will have you up dancing and shimmying while bellowing out the lyrics in no time. Those swanky guitar strides dazzle with mesmerising charisma and that shredding solo, spectacularly thrilling.
Stream ‘CK ‘ below


Album Release, Album Review, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Blues, Indie Soul, New Music

Aja Volkman ‘Sandy’ Album Review

Aja Volkman, the former female front for the LA rock-trio Nico Vega, has announced her long awaited solo debut with the release of her debut album ‘Sandy’. Featuring the lead single ‘My Man’, the album will be available to download on all major media providers from May 19th. Born and raised in Oregon, Aja Volkman began her musical career at a young age and it quickly progressed into a prodigious talent. Volkman’s musical career opened up after she joined forces with War Paint front woman Emily Kohal and for the first time in the public sphere, she unleashed a provocative vocal that would soon define her career. Her foray into the music world continued in 2004 when she forged the successful LA rock trio Nico Vega. After teaming up with Linda Perry (Gwen Stefani, Pink, Christina Aguilera), Nico Vega released their first full-length album in 2009, which received critical acclaim. In 2015 Nico Vega continued to gain popularity after landing an opening slot for Imagine Dragons and now after a short hiatus, Aja Volkman announces her return to music with her debut solo album ‘Sandy’.
‘Sandy’ is a cosy intimate album immersed in beautiful heartfelt delicate tones with country twangs drizzled on top to add a speckle of fun and vibrancy to the album. Dripping in vintage bluesy soul the album displays a sophisticated sound with rich depth and satisfying textures. ‘My Man’ kicks off the album setting a 50’s or 60’s romantic sway-like scene. Elegant and graceful it glides like a fairy tale waltz. The soft instrumentation and sweet lulling backing “sha la la” vocals create a dreamy swoony affectionate flow and glide to this beautiful track. Volkman’s honey soaked vocals coo the luscious melody creating the perfect soothing fanciful scene to blissfully loose yourself  in. This track is irresistibly smooth and velvety as it oozes and seeps idyllic romance. Volkman follows this with track after track featuring  sweet gentle lusciously rich textures. ‘Bother Me’ brings warm country twangs to the candied delicious sound. While ‘Nobody’ adds a bounce and vibrancy with a sassy attitude. The album is speckled with jazzy piano elements in tracks such as ‘Deep Love’ and mysterious steamy tones in ‘Skeletons’ all while maintaining an exquisite knack for ear worm melodies. ‘Sandy’ winds down to a graceful, tender almost peaceful end with ‘Cracked’. Volkman has created a collection of heartfelt eloquent tracks that display her classy elegant and affluent musicianship.
Aja Volkman recorded the album with singer-songwriter Joshua James in Utah and it has taken over a year to put together. ‘Sandy’ is out May 19th and you can get her brand new single ‘My Man’ as an instant download when you pre-order the album from April 28th.
Stream ‘My Man’ below


Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From The Jackobins

 

Liverpool’s finest The Jackobins have released their much anticipated new single ‘Nightfire’. This band have developed a steadily rising fan base across the U.K. They have played sold-out shows on their current tour, a number of well-received festival appearances in 2016 and have gained recent airplay on BBC Introducing Merseyside, Radio X and Radio 6. With a recent change in the line up The Jackobins return with a little shift in their sound.
‘Nightfire’ presents us with The Jackobins dreamy silky indie pop side. Its sophisticated, smooth and polished while still packing quite a mighty punch. Bringing their anthemic chorus to new heights by packing a mighty heartfelt emotional wallop. Warm melodic guitars sparkle throughout the track interweaving between the melt in your mouth melody. Its light with an aerial atmosphere that has a feather like float which is grounded by the steady bounce on drums and agile elastic bass. What stands out for me with all of the Jackobins tracks is the nimble proficient radiant guitar and this track is no different. With a splendid display the guitar elements lift the track with dazzling luminosity and scintillation. Soaked in melancholic tones teamed with sweet passionate vocals it’s radio friendly and proves these guys can do whatever they put their mind to.

Stream ‘Nightfire’ below