Tag Archives: rock

Alt Rock, Grunge, Hard Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, psychedelic, Rock

Deepshade ‘Time’

Deepshade are a power house trio from Wigan. Band members David Rybka (Vox/Guitar), Tom Doherty (Bass) and Paul Barlow (Drums) have returned with their raucous fusion of psyched up alternative/grunge rock with the announcement of their new video single release ‘Time’. Their debut album ‘Everything Is Popular Is Wrong’ was released in early 2015 and it propelled Deepshade into the national spotlight with acclamation from UK’s Power Play and Classic Rock Magazine along with receiving support from alternative radio stations worldwide.
‘Time’ blasts  us with its grunged up guitar hooks and pounding hard rock grooves. It is the perfect opening track for ‘Everything Popular Is Wrong’. The track begins in a true rock star manner with an attention grabbing, thrilling scream from Rybka and an infectious riff. The track is bursting with energy and a smooth sensual bass line that lures you in while the thunderous drums give that captivating rock feel. The verses are full of eerie tones with deep vocals that are seductive and alluring. You get the feeling you are being coaxed or enticed into a world of chaos to which you have no control over. The slick shredding guitar solo adds an edge to the track as it builds to a massive heavy crescendo while Rybka’s vocals are intense and commanding.
With new material already to be unearthed later in 2016, Deepshade are gearing up to unveil dates for their UK live shows and first ever tours of Spain and Portugal in November.
Looking  forward to hearing more from Deepshade!
Watch ‘Time’ below

Alt Rock, Hard Rock, indie rock, New Music, Rock

Circle Of Reason ‘Never Enough’

Circle Of Reason are a four piece alt/hard-rock band hailing from Southampton. Band members Gary, Simon, Andy and Rob have created a name for themselves as a band who can deliver on the live stage. They have earned themselves support slots with the likes of Feed The Rhino, Marmozets, Neck Deep, Inme, Girlschool, Mallory Knox, Fearless Vampire Killers and many more. They have also performed at numerous festivals including Takedown Festival, X-Treme, Rock Diabetes, Kerrang Radio Summer Festival, Gosport, Keynsham and Weyfest. Having already released two video singles in the past 3 months in support of their mini album ‘Faith Or Theory’, UK unsigned alt-rocker’s Circle Of Reason are back again to announce their new video for ‘Never Enough’.
‘Never Enough’ delivers all of the bands renowned melodic hooks, articulate dynamics and fierce guitar riffs and is a massive attention grabbing opener for the album. From the start this track swallows you up in a whirlwind frenzy of hard hitting material with melodic verses and a soaring chorus. The intense vigorous guitar riffs and thunderous drums pound your very soul and convey an aggressive tone. The songs rapid tempo creates an almost manic circle pit worthy atmosphere which slows a little for the chorus where the dynamic vocals take your attention. The robust flexible bass runs along in the background of the track with powerful effect giving this track a depth. The track explores the lyrical theme of “No matter what you do, it’s never good enough for some people”. and this is conveyed perfectly through the instrumentation. The pounding drums and frantic guitars portray a frustrated and angry perhaps confused atmosphere that one would feel if you thought you were “never good enough for some people”
This track is a beast of a track that deserves to be played at max volume!
The band’s new mini-album, ‘Faith Or Theory’, is available now. You can purchase it  in physical format via the band’s store or digitally via iTunes.
The Video to ‘Never Enough’ was released earlier this month. It shows the emotion behind the song and how it could relate to anyone and features actress and model ‘Hannaj Bang Bendz’ check it out below.

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

Odstocks ‘Cookie Jar’

Odstocks are a rock band from Salisbury. Band members Jack Wilkinson-Holton (Guitar & Vocals), Tommy Nicklen (Guitar & B-Vocals), Tom Hollinworth (Bass) and Alec Mackenzie (Drums) have won ‘Best young band’ at the Salisbury music awards and are creating quite a stir with their energetic indie rock sound. They released their debut track ‘Cookie Jar’ earlier this year and are currently working on their debut EP.
‘Cookie Jar’ is a riff based rock track full of attitude. It begins with an infectious guitar, riff some guitar distortion and thumping drums. The guitars subside a little to a psychedelic wah wah in places for the verse while an unexpected strong but subtle almost funky bass line adds a groove that is contagious.The vocals are gritty and aggressive which adds a contrast between the groovy seductive bass and light slick lustrous guitar. The chorus builds both instrumentally and vocally and becomes more vigorous and intense. The instrumental gives a chance for them to showcase their talent as we hear a confidant zealous guitar feature with slick running baseline and stirring drums. The song increases in tempo to the final chorus which is introduced by the catchy riff then the song ends suddenly in a true rock star “drop the mic fashion”.
‘Cookie Jar’ is a brilliant introduction to a talented band which deserve to do well.
Stream ‘Cookie Jar’ below

A Chat With, Blues, Indie, Interviews, New Music, Rock and Roll

A Chat With : Skunkmello

 

Following the release for their new album ‘ Hot Chicken’ today we decided to have a chat with Skunkmello to see what makes them tick.

When did you form your band?

Early 2012.

How did you decide what style/ Genre of music you wanted to do?
I’ve always been a huge fan of rock and roll and old blues and roots music so I tend to write songs in that vein, and the songs I bring to the band generally dictate the style we ultimately run with. It’s an amorphous vibe that kind of changes a bit from tune to tune, but always grounded in solid rock and roll.
What inspired you to make music?
Everything, really. All the great tunes out there, the grit and grind of everyday existence, high-proof distillations, and the whole galaxy of multi-colored uppers, downers, screamers, laughers…

What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs?
White knuckled chaos, good-timing debauchery, and tenuous survival careening on the edge of almost certain doom. We like Whiskey too.
Could you briefly describe you music-making process?
We don’t have much of a process. I may come up with a song, for whatever reason, and bring it in to the band for some run and gun electric rocket-fire.

What has been your biggest challenge as a band? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
We often take a bender a bit too far around the curve, winding up in some precarious situations where fast talk and burnt nerves won’t always walk you back. We don’t overcome as much as we overdo, but once you get into something like this you got to take out to it’s fiery conclusion.

What is your Favourite song to perform live and why?
We dig em all, that’s why we play them, and my favorite tends to shift with my mood. Right now I guess it’s a tune called “Sweet Delight” off of our new record, Hot Chicken, because it’s got that big fiery finish you can really get in to.

So far what are your favourite and least favourite venues that you have played ?
We like them all as long as the crowd is right and the taps are flowing.

What’s the most bizarre thing to happen while you were on stage?
Well, we did a show recently where we had some naked folks dancing around, some spinning from the ceiling and others spinning fire. We thought that was pretty cool.

Who has been your favourite support act so far?
There are a number of local bands we like to play with, including The Silks, Scantron, and Cropdust.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to get around, get into some mountains, get into some waves, or get just vibe off somewhere quiet with a book and a guitar. I also enjoy raucous burner at the pub, depending on my mood.

Any Plans to come to Ireland in the future?
Hopefully soon, I love Ireland and have had many a wild time over there. Good people down for a good time.

What advice do you have for people who want to form their own band?
If you dig it, do it. If you really dig it, do it twice.

Stream ‘ Slaughterhouse Blues’ below

 

Alt Rock, indie rock, Rock, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This week is Ghost Robots ‘Under Fire’

Irish five piece band Ghost Robots formally known as We The People are an alternative rock band from Waterford. Band members Michael Doyle (Vocals), Dael O’Brien (Drums), Evan Hayes (Bass), David Hearne (Rhythm Guitar) and David Rudden (Lead Guitar) have just finished recording their second EP ‘Sell It To Me’ with the song ‘Under Fire’ being the lead single and have now begun work on their first album with producer Ciaran O’ Shea.
‘Under Fire’ is a dynamic punchy indie rock track that is insanely catchy. It begins with an infectious riff that worms its way into your brain while the punchy bendy beats persuade your body to move. The vocals are sombre and almost eerie and blend perfectly with the instrumentation as they complement each other and create a dark mysterious atmosphere. The track runs steadily along as the guitars lure you to the brisk exhilarating bridge and chorus, while still holding the sombre vocal. The instrumental shakes things up a little with a swirl like effect giving a dazed and confused vibe to the track as the vocals return again for the final chorus.
‘Under Fire’ is a massive track that is not overpowering. It has cool tones with vocals that are effortlessly smooth and oozing swagger while conveying a shadowy atmosphere when teamed with the guitars and percussion.
Looking forward to hearing Ghost Robots album!
Watch ‘Under Fire’ below

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Whop, Rock, Rock and Roll

Beautiful Corruption ‘Orphic’

 

Beautiful Corruption are a four piece alt-rock band based in Kilkenny, Ireland. The band consists of Oisin Wolfe on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, James Brown on lead guitar and back-up vocals, Simon Cooke on drums and Rory Cooper on bass. We reviewed their début EP ‘ Snakes & Ladders’ earlier this year which showcased their growing talents and potential. They have released their new single ‘Orphic’ which is a strong follow up.
‘Orphic’ is a competent proficient track full of shredding guitars, pounding drums and dynamic vocals. The intro sets the musical scene with a taste of the explosive sound to come .The verses are presented in a slick manner with a rock and roll vibe light beats and acute guitar that holds a bright infectious luring melody while the bass and drums keep us grounded. The vocals exude swagger while the backing vocals add a lush harmony which is refreshing. The chorus explodes into the mosh worthy frenzy that Beautiful Corruption are known for with thunderous drums , vigorous guitars, forceful bass and charismatic vocals making this song infectious. The mighty lusty guitar solo and instrumental break is effectively brawny and powerful and ends the song on a high leaving you wanting more.
Watch ‘Orphic’ below

A Chat With, Alt Rock, Blues, indie rock, Interviews, New Music, Rock

A Chat With : Jack Berry

After reviewing Jack Berry’s new album ‘ Mean Machine’ earlier this month, we decided to have a chat with him about his new album and to get to know him a little better.

How Did ‘Mean Machine’ come about?
I had a bunch of songs I was working out and I got a call to use an old track (“Kiss Like”) for a Showtime show but I had to re-record the instrumentals. We went in, recorded it in an hour and the engineer just says, “Well, you’ve got the studio for the day…want to record anything else?” Three days later we had Mean Machine.
Did you find it difficult to decide what tracks you wanted on the album and what order to put them in?
Which songs were already set, but the order I treated like a concept album. Lyrically everything is correlative and the story carries itself throughout and I arranged the tracks to justify that.
The songs on the album all keep in with the same theme of conflicting emotions only portrayed in different ways was it difficult to keep the same theme through all the songs?
I certainly didn’t plan it to be that way, so it wasn’t difficult to stick to it. It’s more difficult to just stay out of the way of the flow. Let it breathe.
Your songs are full of swagger and confidence does this reflect on your personality?
Most of the figures I placed as heroes growing up had bravado in spades. Like Clint Eastwood or Muhammad Ali – but I wouldn’t say I walk the streets like Shaft. I’m a lot more laid back than what my music suggests…til I’m not.

Which of your songs are you most proud of?
I’m really proud of The Bull. The storyline alone was a fun thing to create and everything fell into place from there. I never planned for it to be so heavy but that’s what I love about it – the rise and tension. Parts of other songs still give me chills which is weird I reckon, to get that feeling from your own songs but I’m pretty good at detaching myself from the project as a person and artist.
There are some really great riffs in this album, were they difficult to come up with or did they come naturally?
Thank you for saying that. Naturally I suppose. The difficult part was refining them. I could hear them in my head but I’m only a sub-par player so it took time to do the riff justice.
Do your songs draw inspiration from personal experiences?
I like to use the content or vibe as a sort of score or soundtrack to my personal experiences so in a way yes, but not verbatim.
From your album you get a sense that these songs would be epic performed live, what is your Favourite song to perform live and why?
The live show brings the ruckus, I can tell you that much. I try to bring the energy of a punk show in rock form. We’re all dropping in sweat by song three. “Bad Dog” is typically the closer and for good reason.
What advice do you have for people who want to start a career in music?
Once you commit to starting that road, don’t turn back – only way you’ll make it is being relentless. Especially these days. It’s a beautiful thing to have so many artists among us, but it makes it a bitch to survive and get noticed.
What has been your biggest challenge in the music industry so far? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
Keeping my mouth shut about other genres or artists that receive so much fame and attention. There’s just no point but I’m so opinionated and certain things like country, which is just pop music with shit lyrics these days, not at all a candle to what it use to be but…ah dammit. See. Shut my mouth.
Any Plans to come to Ireland in the future?
By order of the Peaky Blinders I assume.
What is next for Jack Berry?
Shows, shows, more shows. Then back to the drawing board. Scatter some whiskey and tacos in there and that should cover it.

Whiskey and tacos sound good! might do that myself! stream ‘Mean Machine’ below.

https://soundcloud.com/jackberrymeanmachine/sets/mean-machine

Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music, Rock

New Valley Wolves ‘Eyes On Me’

New Valley Wolves are a rock duo from Dublin. Jonny Lucey and Baz Joyce have created an aggressive concoction of blues, rock ‘n’ roll and hard- core rock. Their new single ‘Eyes On Me’ was released earlier this year and it is definitely a force to be reckoned with.
‘Eyes On Me’ is a riff based gritty blues rock track full of attitude and swagger. The slick fiery riffs teamed with pounding soul shaking drums give this track a cool sensual tone with an added grit. The confident vocals exudes swagger with its grainy “I don’t give a damn” tone. The verses give an eerie destructive almost threatening tone while the infectious riff sticks in your head, its so catchy you will have it playing in your head all day. This track builds into frantic head banging rock that is mosh pit worthy. This track is full of energy with powerful drums and vigorous guitar I can imagine its insane live!
Stream ‘Eyes On Me’ here

https://soundcloud.com/new-valley-wolves/eyes-on-me

Album Review, Alt Rock, Grunge, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Rock

The Flux Machine ‘Louder!’

The Flux Machine is Luis Accorsi and Raphael Sepulveda. They are a New York City based alternative indie rock band with an edgy hard rock sound. Their new album ‘Louder!’ was released earlier this year and it’s a tornado of hardcore rock music with some sneaky melodic pop and country aspects thrown in which make this album contagious and appealing to all.
The first track on the album is ‘Run Away’. From the start they blast you into a storm of pounding drums with a deep rooted bass that pulses through your soul. This track is full of energy with a catchy anthem like chorus that compels your body to jump and dance. With simple lyrics and “na na na” feature it’s hard to stop yourself from singing along.
‘Square Up’ follows in a grungy eerie seductive manner. The verses are full of gritty deep bewitching vocals with luring bass line and tempting drums. The track bursts into another massive energetic rock pop chorus. The contrast between the dark verses to the lighter chorus is effective and innovative.
The title track ‘Louder!’ is a manic mosh pit of frenzy. It’s rapid tempo and grinding guitar with thunderous drums makes this song the power rock track that lives up to its name. You can just imagine a live crowd going wild to this track. Turn it up and go crazy!
‘Toxic Love’ has a “The Strokes” feel. With distorted vocals and prominent strong drums. Again filled with infectious melodies and catchy easy to sing along chorus. The sweet backing vocals and slick guitar solo add a refreshing change to the tone of the track and breaks up the intense energetic vibe.
‘How It’s Gonna Be’ and ‘Mess you up’ follow with the same high powered energy with ‘Mess You Up’ becoming more grunge and intense. With heavy sound and screaming growl vocals that add an eerie quality and give a wall of death feel.
‘Believe’ is a dramatic change from the intensity of its predecessor, it lightens the mood and slows down the tone giving us a chance to calm down and slow our racing heart beats. It is a melodic softer track that is full of emotion with an airy bright feel. It completely takes you by surprise but shows a delicate side to the band. With cool sunny vocals and bouncy beats. The backing vocals add a psychedelic 70s vibe in places. It is a proper tender hazy sunshine track.
‘Love And Affection’ continues to surprise us as it is also bright and more pop infused only with a hint of country added to the mix. The light bopping beats really lift this song while the guitars give us a taste of that rock sound we are used to. The soft vocal in the chorus give a gentle feel to the song. It’s definitely a surprise but a beautiful song all the same.
‘Wheels Of Love’ eases us back into their heavier sound with a slick blues bass riff that coaxes your hips to sway and move. We welcome the heavier rock sounding drums back with gritter vocals and a scream in places. A confident filled, seductive track that exudes swagger and is extremely strut worthy.
‘Jack, Jim And Johnny’ brings us back to a blues country style. With twanging guitars and a soft bouncy beat that builds as the tempo becomes more rapid until we are presented with a country rock track. This track is full of middle finger attitude. It is a great song to get you pumped.
‘Crash Down’ brings us back to a fast tempo high energy rock track. With a call and response chorus that is infectious. It shows us a fun side to the band with stunning guitar and strong drums that bury and bend deep inside you and pound through your body making you get up and dance.
The album finishes with ‘Hate Love’ which is full of “oomph” and energy and is a fiery strong song to end on. The dynamic guitars and spirited drums make this track lively and infectious. With its humorous lyrics and aggressive spirited sound this track will leave you wanting more.
The Flux Machine have created 12, non-stop, power songs that are infectious and memorable and extremely likeable and innovative. They have something for everyone ‘Louder!’ is definitely a fantastic listen.
Stream ‘Louder!’ below

A Chat With, Alt Rock, indie rock, Interviews, New Music, Rock

A Chat With: Gideon’s Army

With the release of Gideon’s Army’s new album  ‘King of the League’ today we decided to have a chat with Robert Bray to get to know him and his band better.

 When did you form your band?

It’s come together over time, but we started gigging in 2014. Our first gig was in March 2014 at Mexicali Live in Teaneck, NJ.

 How did you decide what style/ Genre of music you wanted to do?

The songs come from my guitar or when I’m singing on my own or when I’m jamming with bandmates. Certain sounds will inspire me to sing, and once in a while it hits a deep nerve  and the music wants to travel. And then a song appears.

What inspired you to make music? 

The singers and songwriters of my youth that moved me in a profound way. Eddie Vedder, Bruce Springsteen, Scott Weiland, Mick Jagger, Elvis, the Beatles, Johnny Cash, Kings of Leon, Tom Petty, the Black Crowes… Those are my biggest influences , but I’ve taken inspiration from many people across all genres of music. I fell in love with the guitar sounds on those records too. 

What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs?

My love relationships show up again and again in my songwriting. My songs are also filled with my love of music, and my professional, artistic, social, and financial struggles. I tend to write about my most noble of emotions, my greatest joys, and my deepest pain.

Could you briefly describe you music-making process?

Most of the time my guitar playing will inspire the song. I’ll catch something that makes me want to sing. And like I mentioned before every once in a while you hit something deep, and you get possessed with a desire to express yourself. To articulate a profound sentiment in songful verse. It’s unexplainable, but once you’re possessed you have to write that song. Sometimes the song starts from something I’m singing to myself and then I go sit down with my guitar and find the groove. And sometimes it comes from singing along to something that one of my bandmates is playing when we get together to rehearse or jam. 

What has been your biggest challenge as a band and have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

Thanks to the marvels of the internet we’ve been able to attract devoted fans all over the world, but it’s been a challenge to get the word out in our own home city, although it is still the city where we have the largest following. It’s been a challenge and it’s still a challenge to fill out a sizable venue. Our fans are scattered around the world and not concentrated in select cities or regions. Although we do know we have the most fans in NYC and Brazil.

What is your Favourite song to perform live and why?

That changes based on my and our mood, but In the Summertime or One Kiss are always fun to play.

 Whats your favourite venue that you have played at so far?

I’m tremendously excited about our June 1st album release show at the Cutting Room in New York City. It is one of the best sounding rooms in the city, and it’s got a real rock ‘n roll vibe. I also love playing at Mexicali Live in New Jersey. it’s not far from where I grew up and it’s close to my family and some of our biggest fans.

 What’s the most bizarre thing to happen while you were on stage?

Strings pop sometimes mid song, and you’ve got to change up your chord shapes to keep the song going and avoid sounding out of tune.

Who has been your favourite support act so far?

I’m psyched to share a bill with Marco With Love at the Cutting Room on June 1st, they’re an exciting NYC based rock ‘n roll band.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spend time with my girlfriend, close friends and family. I like to take in live music, go to the movies and the theatre, and I love to travel and discover great tastes and sights.

Any Plans to come to Ireland in the future?

I have been to Ireland, Dublin and Belfast, and I love it. I cannot wait to go back. My last name Bray, is a town in Ireland, and it’s the ancestral homeland of my father’s side of the family. Would be a dream to go back and play the great venues there.

 What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?

Don’t just form a group with any bunch of assholes who want to form a band. Work on your craft, work on your instrument, work on your song writing, wait until you can legitimately attract others of top quality. You can flounder for years in a project that is going nowhere. Better to take your time, have patience and then hit it hard with the best musicians in town.

Strong honest advise to end on, lets hope Gideon’s Army return to Ireland soon!