Category Archives: Indie

Blues Rock, Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, indie rock, New Music, Rock and Roll

Indie Buddie Introducing : LEONTAS

London based rock duo LEONTAS have released their new single ‘Rhythm  + Blues’ alongside co-single ‘Here Today’. The band revolves around singer and guitarist Alex Munteanu and drummer Scott Collier who met at an audition for a separate band in Camden. After the two bonded, realising their musical styles fitted perfectly together LEONTAS was born in Camden’s Creation Studios.

‘Rhythm + Blues’ is your foot stomping bluesy rock and roll banger. Drenched in strutting swagger this track slides in, cool and sassy with a raw punchy sound. Edgy guitar riffs shred through mighty drums and a sing along ready chorus. Filled with a prance inducing confidence and a smooth melody this charming number strides in on an infectious groove and sublime steamy guitar licks, oozing a bold prancing swankiness that is compelling.

‘Here Today’ takes a more chilled approach with a thumping beat setting the sturdy clap along camp fire back drop for the sprightly acoustic guitar strides and raspy vocals. Cruising on a feel good summer vibe this track glides along flooding with warmth and infectiousness. Its shaky rhythm and subtle groove infested approach will warm the cockles of your heart filling you with youthful nostalgia and chill mellow vibes. This track oozes emotion and passion in a laid back easy going manner that makes it instantly like-able and fun.

This duo have a tight sound that is brimming with swagger -their laid back approach adds a sublime relaxed vibe to the tracks while their refined musicianship and dash of sass makes for a captivating and enthralling listen.

Stream ‘Rhythm + Blues’ and ‘Here Today’ below


Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Mini Mansions

Los Angeles trio Mini Mansions mark their highly anticipated return with their new single ‘Works Every Time’, the title track from their upcoming EP ‘Works Every Time’ set for release on September 28th. The EP follows on from the trio’s  (singer/guitarist Michael Shuman (bassist of Queens of The Stone Age), bassist Zach Dawes and singer/keyboardist Tyler Parkford) critically acclaimed 2015 album ‘The Great Pretenders’, which saw the band tour with the likes of Tame Impala, Arctic Monkeys and Royal Blood and of course the B-sides release ‘Flashbacks’ which we previously reviewed on Indie Buddie.

‘Works Every Time’ is an infectious foot tapping number that swoons around a delicious melancholic melody and wistfully sweet vocals. Parkford takes on the vocals for this tune – his warm lower range resonating through the brooding verses before Shuman joins in for the falsetto chorus. The track laments through hazy key flickers and dreamy backdrops while the steady beat and elastic bass keeps the track bouncing along doused in nectarous gloopy bliss. Naturally, you can’t have a Mini Mansions song without some tasty guitar lines and this track packs in oodles of that in the most sophisticated classy way that only these guys can do. The guitar injections pine and weep with a sting that adds a refreshing spice and dash of zest to the cruising lusciously melancholic track. These guys are immensely talented. Each track they produce is precise and immaculate with refined classy elements on top of fine richly layered musicianship. They are musical magi with the perfect blend of melodies and tones to have us eating out of the palm of their hands longing and craving for every melodic concoction they deliver.

Stream ‘Works Every Time’ below


EP Review, Indie, New Music

Lewis Ross ‘Colder Days’ EP

Lewis Ross is an emerging indie folk artist from Edinburgh who has released his debut EP ‘Colder Days’. Formed from the humble environment of his bedroom in Edinburgh, Ross has been compiling this EP for the previous two years. In regard to his song writing Lewis pays particular attention to detail, this ultimately secured him a position on the indie folx spotify playlist “the best of indie folk 2018”. Reminiscing on pivotal points in his life, Ross addresses some of the universal thoughts and feelings surrounding young love and regret in the EP. ‘Colder Days’ was recorded and produced by Garry Boyle, who is a well-established producer within the Scottish music scene. Lewis has also appeared on radio shows within Scotland after recently releasing his debut single ‘Come On Home’ which has been met with critical acclaim.

‘Colder Days’ is a delicate warm and glowing collection of laid back passionate tracks. The sweet ‘Intro’ sets the tranquil tone of the EP with piano twinkles and lush vocals. ‘Now That You’re Gone’ follows with warm guitar flickering between Ross’ velvety vocals. Each track pulls at the heart strings with its beautiful tender arrangement and graceful string injections. Ross provides us with the perfect chill time playlist – his tracks are constructed with subtle intricate parts providing the perfect backdrop for Ross’ emotional vocals. ’Come on Home’ and ‘Signs of Life’ display rich sublime melodies and marvellous ethereal backing vocals that will have you tearfully swaying with a glass of wine watching a glorious sunset until ‘Hope to See you in the Morning’ lulls you into that final soothing state of serenity. When listening to this moving EP the world stops and all that exists is you, stillness and these heavenly touching tunes.

Stream ‘Colder Days’ below

 

 


EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

The Half Light ‘Night On My Mind’ EP

The Half Light are a four piece indie band from London who have returned to the scene in 2018 with new material and a new line up. The band have released their new EP ‘Night On My Mind’, which is being released in full alongside the single ‘Seven Summers’. This release follows the earlier releases of the lead track ‘8th May’ (March 2018) and title track ‘Night On My Mind’ (April 2018). To mark the launch of the EP and ‘Seven Summers’, the band will be playing Clarence Park Festival, Wakefield, on 28th July. The Half Light’s music has featured on radio stations across the country, including BBC 6 Music, BBC London and Amazing Radio and the band were nominated for Best UK Act at the 2015 Pure M Awards. Since forming in 2011, the band have self-released ‘Clapham EP’ (2012) and ‘Moscow’ (2015), which is now followed by ‘Night On My Mind’ EP. Following these earlier releases, vocalist James and guitarist Guy were joined by a refreshed rhythm section, Mike and Martin, to complete the line up and the band entered the studio in London in late 2017.

‘Night On My Mind’ is a delightful triad of glorious indie, swirling between luscious pop melodies and sparkling chimes on keys. Both the title track ‘Night On My Mind’ and ‘8th May’ have been previously featured on Indie Buddie, The former wisping us away with ethereal guitars soaring over breezy soundscapes, punchy drums and a delicious bitter sweet melody while ‘8th May’ shimmied its way firmly into our minds and hearts with its rich rhythm and infectious chorus soaring over glorious guitar work. It was no surprise that ‘Seven Summers’ would be the sweet icing on the cake. Laced in glorious melodies coated with sparkling guitars, sublime bass rumbles and gleaming keys. This follows the vibrantly heavenly vibes of its predecessors perfectly and displays the bands meticulous well crafted musicianship. The track builds to a magnificent crescendo as the guitars slash an illuminating zesty flash of light through the glorious soundscape. These guys have an ability to write heart warming wholesome tracks that hop, bop and tantalize the listeners ears until they are shivering in the corner craving to hear more.

Stream ‘Night On My Mind’ below

 


Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jack Woodward ‘Rain’

Cheshire 24 year old solo artist Jack Woodward has released his new single ‘Rain’. The track was recorded in St Helens, North West England, with a production team called ‘Sugar House’ and is the 10th song that they have worked on together. Woodward has played a lot of new venues and festivals both solo and with his backing band, including performing on the X Factor Live Tour in Brighton to 4500 people, playing the BBC Introducing Stage at Blackburn’s festival of making, playing a sold out gig at Sound in Liverpool and The Cavern Club. His last EP ‘Higher’ was met with incredible support, with tracks broadcast multiple times by BBC Introducing Lancashire, Amazing Radio, features from BBC 6 Music’s ‘Fresh Faves’ and interviews with BBC Introducing Lancashire and The ‘Warrington Guardian’

’Rain’ is a sparkling swirling concoction filled with dark stormy tones over sublime musicianship. Flashing electronics dazzle and coil above jangly guitar and spaghetti western hues. The vibrant electronics and buoyant beat keep the track bouncing along at a steady peppy pace as the mysterious haunting guitars whine and creep in filling the track with tones of uncertainty and danger. The catchy chorus and velvety vocals add an infectious gripping texture to the track while the sweet melody soothes and laments over the instrumental turmoil. It’s a compact polished number that soars to ethereal heights with sublime instrumentation and cinematic vibes that will have you on the edge of your seat.

When asked about the track Woodward said:  “‘Rain’ is about a man who has made a terrible mistake and committed a crime. He’s on the run from the world and searching for escape and solace anywhere he can find it; in his lover.”

Stream ‘Rain’ below


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Black Honey

Black Honey have shared another new track called ‘I Only Hurt The Ones I Love’, the follow-up to recent pop hit ‘Bad Friends’. The song precedes the group’s debut album, which is expected to land in September. They also have a headline tour coming up, which will see them head out from 13th October, with the finale taking place at London’s Electric Ballroom.

‘I Only Hurt The Ones I Love’ re-introduces that sweltering spaghetti western guitar Black Honey do so well. Once you hear that thrilling shrill you know your in for another infectious striking track from Black Honey. Izzy’s smooth vocals coo over the blistering guitar strides and punchy drums while that tasty melody drizzles a sweet nectarous syrup on top. It’s dipped in the laid-back swagger we know and love from this four piece while they flood the track in haunting mystery with some bopping pop sprinkled on top. This deadly concoction is the scrumptious irresistible sound of Black Honey. The catchy chorus, rumbling bridge teamed with slick bass licks and guitar hooks make for a polished glossy yet gritty blast of chilled indie rock.

Watch the video for  ‘I Only Hurt The Ones I Love’ below


Ambient Music, EP Review, Indie, New Music

Transmission Club ‘The Hour of the Wolf’ EP

Cork-based alt-rock outfit Transmission Club will release their second EP, ‘The Hour of the Wolf’, on Friday, July 13th. Recorded and produced by Chris Somers at One Chance Out Studios, the band’s sophomore release takes the listener on a musical trajectory from the intimate to the anthemic within three tracks. The E.P was mastered by Pete Maher (The Pixies, Jack White, Goldfrapp) in his London studio. Titled after the surrealist horror film by Ingmar Bergman, ‘The Hour of the Wolf‘ delves into themes of isolation and fear of the subconscious, explored through a compelling blend of folk-rock and electronic soundscapes. Formed in 2014 as the bedroom recording project of Michael Prendiville, Transmission Club is quickly becoming one of the most unique acts in the Irish music scene. The band’s diverse sonic palette combines elements of indie, folk and grunge, textured with harmonium, violin, keyboards, guitars, drum machines and loops. Recording takes place in bedrooms and living rooms in Cork, giving the music a raw, untrammelled feel. Transmission Club’s first EP, Salt, was released in November 2015, gaining airplay on The Alternative with Dan Hegarty (2fm), The Paul McLoone Show (Today FM) and on 8Radio. Transmission Club also recorded a live session for The Paul McLoone Show in January 2016. Salt was voted No.1 in The Last Mixed Tape’s Reader’s E.P of the Year 2015 Poll. The video for “Taking Off (Blackhole)” was nominated for a Pure M award for Best Music Video in 2017.

‘The Hour of the Wolf’ is a spellbinding three track combo that enthralls and captivates the listener in its luscious deeply moving soundscapes. From the atmospheric and delicately moving ‘This War’  with its elegance and tender tones nudged by warm guitar twinkles, soft percussion and sweet string strides, this bands sophisticated and deeply poignant musicianship becomes apparent. The band build the track meticulously, slowly brooding as if every breath, every note takes its own pace, gently conveying the heart breaking theme. The track builds to a distorted explosive crescendo which sends shivers down your spine. They write tunes that make you listen, grab your attention and tear your heart out. They do this not only through sweet tenderness but through gritty dark instrumentation too. ‘Taking Off (Blackhole)’ is simply magnificent. Eerie vocals coo over lamenting strings and a dark murky guitar riff. Once again distortion is placed perfectly to add urgency and a sense of dizzying panic through this sublime gripping experience. The elegance of the strings is the perfect contrast to the psychedelic haunting soundscapes. This bands ability to creating wholly enthralling tunes that fill you with emotion from melancholic and sweet to haunting and chilling is fantastic. They execute their instruments with a fine tuned precision that is masterful. ‘The Porcupine Dilemma’ brings us to the end of our mesmerising journey with Transmission Club. It’s a soft little gem that features glistening guitar between emotional, warm vocals while lush backing vocals, a thumping beat and graceful strings  fill out the sound. It’s deeply moving and passionate as the divine melody fluidly flows over the tapping rhythm and delicate instrumentation. ‘The Hour of the Wolf’ EP is a thought provoking well structured treasure trove that fills you with vivid instrumentation, oodles of passion with wholesome melodies running throughout. It’s a thoroughly satisfying and rich experience.

‘The Hour of the Wolf’ will be available from July 13th on Bandcamp, iTunes and Spotify. A limited CD run of the E.P will be available also.

You can follow Transmission Club on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/transmissionclubmusic

 

 

 


Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

The Covasettes ‘Top Drawer’

                                            Photo credit: Ianthe Warlow

Promising Manchester indie-rock band, The Covasettes, have released their third single ‘Top Drawer’, following the release of their last two singles, ‘This Feeling’  and ‘Wondering Why’, The Covasettes have enjoyed success so far, featuring on BBC Introducing and playing sold out shows in Manchester, Leeds, Derby and London.

‘Top Drawer’ is a fizzing blast of vibrant indie that surrounds your ears in blissful summer-soaked tones and luscious melodies. A buoyant beat hops and rebounds off exuberant weaving guitars while a peppy bassline holds it all together. This scorching dazzler is infectious and filled with glorious hooks and tasty guitar lines that leave you craving for more. With a sublime melody melting upon a vivid and radiant backdrop this wonderful tune wraps your ears in an ethereal peppy cloud of delight. Smooth velvety vocals flow upon the sweet melody while the anthemic chorus adds that instant rush of youthful adrenaline that ensures this track will be placed firmly on repeat. With its glossy lustre and irresistible infectiousness ‘Top Drawer’ is a well-crafted and thoroughly satisfying listen.

Watch the video for  ‘Top Drawer’ below


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

Miles Kane ‘Cry On My Guitar’

Miles Kane has released another new track ‘Cry On My Guitar’ from his forthcoming new album, titled ‘Coup De Grace’ which is set for release on August 10. The release marks his third solo album, following predecessor ‘Don’t Forget Who You Are’ from 2013. ‘Cry On My Guitar’ is a stomping dazzler that struts in loaded with intoxicating guitar whines, thumping drums and swagger laced vocals – Kane has channeled his inner Marc Bolan. This slick frenzy of rock n roll is overflowing in steamy panache as the exhilarating chorus blasts adrenaline pumping stamina into your veins while the cool shimmy ready verses chill the feverous atmosphere. ‘Cry On My Guitar’ sounds like it could have come from the seducing glam rock mania of the 70’s with a modern Kane twist. That clap along feature, vaporous guitar solo and constant groovy backdrop drive this electrifying spectacle. It’s a swanky outburst that is sure to have your blood pumping and live audiences in a crazed frenzy. Once again Kane produces a chic riveting number that will have you dancing, attempting air guitar and just feeling like a bad ass.

Stream ‘Cry On My Guitar’ below

 


Alt- Pop, Hypnotic, Indie, Indie Psychedelic, New Music, psychedelic

The Vryll Society ‘Light At The Edge Of The World’

Psychedelic Risers The Vryll Society have released their new single ‘Light At The Edge Of The World’ from their debut LP ‘Course Of The Satellite’ set for release 10th August via Deltasonic Records. Having already produced a series of critically acclaimed singles, including  ‘A Perfect Rhythm’ and ‘Shadow Of A Wave’, the fast-rising Merseyside outfit are primed for their first full-length release, with impressive appearances at the likes of Glastonbury, Reading & Leeds and TRNSMT helping them develop a staunch grassroots following. The band have received extensive support from BBC Introducing with slots at their SXSW and Glastonbury showcases alongside a Maida Vale live session over the past 18 months, whilst widespread acclaim from Huw Stephens (BBC Radio 1), Phil Taggart (BBC Radio 1) and Steve Lamacq (BBC 6 Music) has seen the spotlight on the psych-pop quintet intensify, leading to supports with Blossoms, The Coral and The Kooks.

‘Light At The Edge Of The World’ is a pop sprinkled whirl of blissful psychedelia that glides in on a delicious sugar coated wave of swirling soundscapes while gentle guitars twinkle between a snapping glucose sticky beat and groovy bassline. The sweet vocals caress the divine melty melody as the tightly layered space rock electronics wisp and coil about playfully. It’s a breezy sweet little number smothered in euphoric bliss and intensely rich textures. The weaving keys wander between the dreamy soundscapes while jangly guitars entwine around the luscious melody adding a dash of zest and juicy texture to this feathery light trippy gem. The touch of distortion adds some grit and dizzying quality to the mind melting bliss while that heavenly pop melody hooks you into the enthralling beauty of this magnificent track. It’s well-crafted and meticulously arranged to make for a completely submerging tasty listen.

You can catch The Vryll Society Live at

21 July – Liverpool International Music Festival (LIMF)

09 Oct – Bristol Exchange, Bristol

10 Oct – Heartbreakers, Southampton

11 Oct – The Lexington, London

12 Oct – The Actress and Bishop, Birmingham

16 Oct – Soup Kitchen, Manchester

17 Oct – King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow

18 Oct – Brudenell Social Club (Community Room), Leeds

19 Oct – Liverpool 02 Academy 2, Liverpool

Stream ‘Light At The Edge Of The World’ below