Thursday 1 December 2011

Irritatingly Catchy Tunes That I Won't Apologise For Liking

Much like a mosquito that bites and leaves an itchy red lump, there are some tunes out at the moment that have gotten under my skin. Playing them over and over is akin to having to scratch the bite; you know it's probably not the best thing for you but dammit, it's addictive and it feels good.


There are three songs that I can't seem to leave along right now. The first one is "Love You So" by Delilah, the follow up to "Go". The video is an amazing mix of archive footage cut with scenes of the lady herself. Slightly less breathy than "Go". This is probably a good thing. She sounded like she was having a Lady Chatterly 'crisis' at points, which was distracting. This is released on the 18th of this month.




Florence + The Machine's album track "Spectrum" has also been played almost constantly for the past month, ever since I heard this on Annie Mac's Friday night show when Florence Welch filled in. Taken from the album "Ceremonials" (out now, in case you were wondering), I hope this is released as a single. It has more balls than Shake It Out and I like that.





Finally on the repeat, if you like your music with a more haunting, ethereal, synth-y sound, I fully recommend "Gone" from the wonderful Paper Crows (who, as I understand it, are busy recording at the moment - this is exciting news!) I fully blame Nick Grimshaw for this one. Over a week has passed and I still can't seem to leave it alone. I do love a female vocalist.

Friday 11 November 2011

Song Of The Day - Chilly Gonzales "You Can Dance" (Robotaki remix)



Happy Friday, everyone!
Here's some modern day 'old skool' tune-age to set you up for the weekend. Chilly Gonzales' track from the "Ivory Tower" album, "You Can Dance" harks back to the good old days of 70s dance and disco (as my dad used to play for me and my sister when we kids off of vinyl, would you believe?) but with a modern twist, a twist emphasised in this remix. Upbeat and familiar with a hint of Daft Punk circa "Discovery". Enjoy.

Wednesday 9 November 2011

Down With The Mainstream?

I was originally going to do a "Song of the Day" post but after reading the comments under the YouTube video for my selection ("You Don't Know How Lucky You Are" by Keaton Henson; it's a gorgeous tune, do check it out if you love your singer songwriters. He has an air of Bombay Bicycle Club about his vocals) it got me onto a completely different tack. Forgive me this rant, normal service will be resumed in the near future.


Human beings are programmed for curiosity. It's how all of the great discoveries of our age came about. It's how continents were discovered, lands populated, how medicine became great and how we industrialised and became prosperous. We want to see what's out there and share what we've found with others. So when someone says that you aren't allowed to share things you find out with other people, looking down on them for wanting others to be a part of something, it's telling someone to repress an aspect of humanity, all for the sake of a little snobbery.


I'm all for people discovering music however they can, wherever they can. I'm also hugely proud of radio stations who take bands and artists who might be slightly less well known and give them a break that the vast majority of them deserve. We're constantly being told that the music industry is a tough ol' game to be involved in, that record sales are going down and illegal downloads are damaging artists. Musicians work incredibly hard to get themselves onto the map, to get word out of their material and to get interest. It's a job like any other; at the end of the day you want to make a success of yourself by doing something you're passionate about. While talent shows give the illusion that the industry is easy to get into, in the vast majority of cases it takes a lot more than singing on a stage for two minutes in front of label big-wigs (paid to be there) in order to get someone to take notice and to take a chance on you.


Radio 1 in particular always used to be (and still remains) the Holy Grail for up and coming artists to get their material recognised and played. Over the past few years, the station has upped their game and really done their utmost to promote unheard of, under-the-radar and unsigned artists. I love listening to the likes of Zane Lowe, Huw Stephens, Nick Grimshaw and the specialist DJs on at night. A lot of the time, that's how I discover new music. They have a passion for it and love to give artists a chance. What I can't stand is musical elitism and the call from individuals who call themselves "fans" of an artist when, just because they get played on a "mainstream" station they are, for all intents and purposes, "selling out".


Which leads me on to my main point.


A comment under the video for Keaton Henson's video basically implied that Zane Lowe could fuck himself, that anyone who had discovered the track from Radio 1 was a moron and "whatever happened to people discovering music for themselves?" Dear Special Snowflake, would you like a medal? I mean congratulations if you found this song by randomly typing words into the search bar and seeing what came up but I'm fairly certain the reason you are there, listening to the song yourself is either because someone told you about the artists work and suggested you listen to it or it came up as a suggestion after you'd watched someone else's video. In short, you found out from word of mouth or being susceptible to other people's opinion. When it boils down to it, how is that too far removed from having the work of a deserving and incredibly talented musician recognised on national radio and people discovering it that way? It's still someone suggesting you give it a play. Music is to be shared. It's how people form bonds and relationships, it's how people find themselves and form their identities. It alters moods. Gigs are an opportunity to be taken in by someone's talent and enjoy the atmosphere they create. Feeling passionate and expressing that towards others is how music is shared. Get off your high horse. If you truly liked and respected the artist, you'd be glad if their following increased and they got some recognition. Don't bitch about how someone found out about the artist, just celebrate the fact they did. If you're into them to be 'underground' and 'unusual', it seems as though you're in it for all the wrong reasons.

Monday 26 September 2011

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB - LIGHTS OUT, WORDS GONE (Song of the Day)


 As it's a somewhat grey and overcast Monday out there (or at least it is here in the West Country. Though the MET office are predicting something of an Indian summer - I'll believe that when I see it), how about something chilled, laid-back and melodic to ease you into your afternoon and into the tail end of summer and the start of autumn?

Bombay Bicycle Club have been quietly sneaking their way into the Top 40 charts for the past 2 years or so now with hits such as 'Ivy and Gold', 'Rinse Me Down' and a personal favourite of mine, 'Evening/Morning'. Their third studio album 'A Different Kind Of Fix' (a worthy purchase) was released earlier this month and today's Song of the Day comes from it. 



The band are touring the UK and europe in October, so if you fancy popping out for an evening with the London 4 piece, check out their website for dates HERE.

Monday 29 August 2011

Labyrinth Ear - Snow White (Song of the Day)


Sometimes a nice bout of insomnia (brought on by the smoke alarm testing itself an insane hours) pays off and you discover things. Beautiful things. Things that remind you slightly of Crystal Castles and Bat For Lashes. That thing, ladies and gentleman, goes by the name of Labyrinth Ear and my word are they good.





If you like 'Snow White', download the duos 'Oak EP' for free HERE. And proceed to listen to it on repeat throughout your Bank Holiday Monday. (I may or may not being doing that myself... Obviously...)

Tuesday 23 August 2011

James Vincent McMorrow - This Old Dark Machine (Song of the Day)

It would appear as though the traditional, troubadour, singer-wongwriter is making something of a comeback. For a while there, it seemed as though the likes Damien Rice and Newton Faulkner were holding down the fort all on their own but with the likes of Mumford & Sons, Laura Marling and Fleet Foxes making that more folksy, acoustic sound popular again, it seems to haved paved the way for some properly beautiful musicians to make their way into the UK charts. Benjamin Francis Leftwich, Ben Howard and now the gorgeous James Vincent McMorrow all have that quietly, ponderously beautiful sound down to an absolute tee and it would be a crying shame if none of these incredibly talented musicians did well this year. Give 'This Old Dark Machine' a listen. It might be the best thing you do today.


Monday 22 August 2011

Marina and The Diamonds - RADIOACTIVE (Song of the Day)

The newly blonde Marina Diamandis has made a phenomenal return with her new track, 'Radioactive'. With a much more techno, dance feel to the material from 'The Family Jewels', the new album and music videos are said by the woman herself to be like a movie.
What do you make of it? I personally prefer this to the likes of 'Hollywood' and 'Shampain'...

Friday 19 August 2011

Some Things for the Weekend

Here are some tunes that I appear to have become obsessed with to the point where it may actually be bordering on unhealthy.



First up, the gorgeous 'I Would Do Anything For You' by the amazing Foster The People. Taken from the album 'Torches' (out now and a MUST BUY), this track - which is not to be confused with that popular Meatloaf tune -  is a beautiful, upbeat tale of falling in love. Simple melody with simple lyrics, perhaps in some way to reflect how simple falling for someone can be. (Coincidentally, the next single to be released by Foster The People is 'Helena Beat'. I recommend you check out the video for that one. Insane).







Next is the ever-kooky Jamie Woon. As far as I'm concerned, 'Mirrorwriting' should have been nominated for the Mercury Prize (maybe next year, Jamie. I'll start the campaign) for being so completely different to anything I've heard in a long time. 'Spirits' is a stunning tune. His lyrics seem to be a poetic expression of something of a karmic/hippy sentiment. This appeals to me but it's certainly something of an acquired sound.







And finally, from someone who sadly wasn't nominated for a Mercury award to someone who was - ms Katy B. Say what you want about the girl, she's definitely got a good voice (if you ignore her 'funny accent'. I played this to some friends from New Zealand and they kept giggling) and 'Witches Brew' is an oddly addictive record. Maybe she's cast a spell over us with it...? All I know is that the rippling, almost glittering dubby (not a word but it is now) synths that seem to overtake this record are lovely. Plus men seem to be pretty enchanted with her.

Tuesday 2 August 2011

GIVERS - Up Up Up (Song of the Day, 2nd August)


When the sun comes out and the holidays are upon us and we're in that mood where we just can't set our minds to anything too serious or intense, you need a tune that is going to typify your mindset and mirror the good mood that the sunshine gives you. Hopefully this track will do just that. Easy to listen to, catchy and properly 'happy-sounding', 'Up Up Up' by Louisianans GIVERS is like sunshine in a song. If you fancy listening to these lot in an actual outdoor situation this summer, they're performing at a series of venues and festivals over the next couple of weeks, including the Summer Sundae Weekender and Field Day Festival. For more information, head to their MySpace page

Thursday 28 July 2011

Fixers - 'Swimhaus Johannesburg' (Song of the Day; 28th July)



"Fixers are a unique, thrilling psychedelic five-piece in love with Japanese pop, Middle Eastern music and the dance grooves of late 70s New York.  New single ‘Swimmhaus Johnnesburg’ shines a light on these influences, with classic piano house lines, startling guitar bursts, echo-drenched vocals and a thrilling 4/4 beat; it’s pop music in its most bold and forward-thinking sense."


And that just about sums up this incredible track. I challenge you to not want to bust (somewhat questionable) moves to this one. 


If you're interested in seeing these lads live, you'll get your chance to see them at the Underage Festival on August 5th. Keep an eye out for further information by going to their website fixerstheband.com/ where you can also find out how to get your sticky little paws on their two EPs.

Wednesday 27 July 2011

The Strokes - Machu Picchu (SONG OF THE DAY; 27th July)

Fancy some summery-sounding, indie guitar, listen-at-top-volume-in-the-car-with-the-top-slash-windows-down music? Of course you do. Because when the weather is actually nice here in the UK, we like to make the most of it.


'Machu Picchu', taken from the album 'Angles' (which has been available since March. If you don't have it already, go and get it. Life will feel so much better as a result...) is magnificently feel-good. Do listen.


Tuesday 19 July 2011

Who The Hell is Gwilym Simcock?

That was the exact thought that went through my head when I first read the list of all the nominees for this year's Mercury Prize which was announced earlier today. A lot of the names were familiar; Adele, Tinie Tempah, Everything Everything, Elbow, James Blake and Katy B are all big names in popular music unless you've been living under a rock or been on the run from the law. There were a few slightly more obscure names I recognised but couldn't really tell you the names of any of their singles (Ghostpoet, King Creosote and Anna Calvi) but one name jumped out at me, waving it's arms in the air and screaming 'notice me!' because of it's oddness and unfamiliarity; Gwilym Simcock


When I listened to the radio a bit more and read a few tweets to find out more about this chap, I soon discovered that he is a classical, jazz style pianist. My ears pricked up and my interest was aroused; I am an unashamed lover of anyone who can tickle those ivories - Norah Jones, Josh Groban, Jamie Cullum are particular musical heroes - so, naturally, I pootled across to Spotify (other musical broadcasters are available I'm sure, but they probably aren't as good) and gave his nominated album 'Good Days At Schloss Elmau' a bit of a listen.






My oh my. The album is just about as kooky and experimental as his name and the title of his works would suggest. While on the surface these pieces of music could be something you'd hear in any lift of a posh hotel or playing in the background in a fancy restaurant, possibly including a few candles and a glass or two of pinot grigeo, if you listen closely you can hear that he is more than slightly experimental in his composition. 'Gripper' in particular is an interesting track. The background chord 'rhythm' is a constant but the more playful overlay is beautifully eccentric. 'Plain Song', as the name would suggest, is a lot simpler and more classic. 

Citing the likes of Keith Jarrett, John Taylor and Igor Stravinsky as some of his influences, the 29-year-old Perrier Award winner is definitely one to be looking out for as a dark horse at this year's Mercury Awards. Even if he doesn't win, the nomination itself is definitely doing to give his profile a bit of a boost.


Although if Adele wins, I may well weep. All those weeks of 'NEVERRRR MIIIIIIIND, I'LL FIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIND SOMEONE LIKE YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOU' at number one have scarred me a little. No offence intended, Adele. You seem like a cracking lass and you've definitely got talent. But... Well, y'know. Give others a chance.




(For more information on this intriguing fellow, check out his website. It certainly makes for some interesting reading >> http://www.gwilymsimcock.com/)

Tuesday 17 May 2011

Ed Sheeran gets remixed!

Here are the True Tiger and Koan Sound remixes of Ed Sheeran's 'The A Team'. The original itself is incredibly beautiful but the two mixes really add something else to it. 

True Tiger adds a level of energy to it...

Whereas Koan Sound slows it down and really blisses it out...

They're all available for download in the usual places, so get to it!

(The A Team has also been playlisted on Radio 1, hooray! Hopefully other stations will cotton on to this fella and add this to their playlists too.)

Monday 16 May 2011

MOPP - Dream About You (Song of the Day)

SONG OF THE DAY
DREAM ABOUT YOU - MOPP


I will concede that this song has been out for about a year now but it's an absolute beauty. MOPP are a Scottish electronic, pop-rock group who have been pootling along for a while now, releasing Dream About You in October of last year. They recently got onto the BBC Radio 1 'Introducing' list at the start of the year and had their track 'A Day Needs More Love' played out on the station, as well as having the opportunity to play at this year's Big Weekend in Carlisle on the Outdoor Stage. With this boost from the BBC, who are often brilliant at giving a stepping stone to newer artists, these talented Scots will go far. If not, it'll be an absolute shame.

Thursday 12 May 2011

Lonsdale Boys Club - Light Me Up (Song of the Day)

Looking for an upbeat, feel-good, pop rock, 80s synth-ed tune that has an air of the Hard-Fi of 2005 and Calvin Harris (I'll admit that is something of a obscure and very precise brief but go with me here)? Well the Lonsdale Boys Club might have just answered this call with their brilliant track 'Light Me Up'.


The three piece hailing from Lonsdale Road in London have also remixed for the likes of The Wombats, Gorillaz and Phoenix, which should give you more of an idea of their sound.



"Light Me Up" is released on May 15th so look out for it and download it. Then play it very loudly in your car as you drive around in the sunshine. It's perfect for that sort of carry on! 
For more information, head to their WEBSITE where there's also a link to some free downloads.

Saturday 7 May 2011

This week's new singles reviewed by Josh Groban

I've got something of a busy day happening today so I doubt I'll have time to do one of these myself, plus it amused me - so have a read of what American "popera" sensation Josh Groban had to say about the new releases this week in 'The Guardian' today. >> Clicky click! What I will do is link to the videos so we can all have a listen.


Wild Beasts 
Albatross (Domino)

This should be played after a long day at work, where you light the fireplace up in your living room, crack open a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and enjoy the song on your lonesome. The half-acoustic/half-electronic feel gives it a really haunting vibe and Hayden Thorpe's voice is beautiful here. My ears always perk up when I hear a unique male voice in the musical sea of homogenous rock singing nowadays and this reminds me of a more focused Antony Hegarty. Three cheers for vibrato! I shall be hunting for more from these beasts.



Blue 
I Can (Blueworld UK)

Whoa! Girls (and a few select gentlemen), have you heard the news? Yes, it's true: Blue are BACK. All rise, people! To be honest, I didn't really know they were gone because I live in America but hey – what a comeback, right? Big drums, Usher-makin'-love-in-the-club styled synths. I'm sure I'll be hearing this song a lot while I'm exploring the London nightlife, which, incidentally, is exactly how I met Lee Ryan a few years back. Nice guy. Although I think he owes me a pint.


Plain White T's 
Boomerang (Island)

I was stoked to hear a new song from the Plain White T's, even though I was just thinking about how many of them I've been wearing recently. (The tees that is, not the actual band.) Still, this peppy number about the angst of running hot and cold in a relationship has a super-catchy chorus and I especially like how it ends with a wee vintage piano. No doubt, it will be pumping from my iPod while I pay a visit to Topman to buy a collection of printed black tank tops.


Jay Sean ft Lil Wayne 
Hit The Lights (Universal-Island)

This is sure to be a club SUPER HIT. Which means the only time I'll hear it is on YouTube. But I'm a sucker for a sly Weezy cameo: I was honoured to stand next to him during last year's Haiti Benefit recording of We Are The World. (Think that sounds odd? Listen to the final mix – it is!) This collaboration with Jay Sean seems a much more solid fit – even though everytime I hear someone say "hit the lights!", I can never tell if they mean on or off. I should find out before I get myself into an awkward social party foul.


Beady Eye 
Millionaire (Beady Eye)

From what I understand, Beady Eye is basically Oasis minus Noel. I also understand from listening to this new track that the boys haven't lost their knack for interesting, strummy chord changes. Nor have they waylaid that ability to pen those grand, inspiring ... but ultimately esoteric lyrics. I mean, why stop at loving someone like a millionaire? I look forward to the day, if and when I find love, when I can look her in the eye and say: "Baby, I love you like a kabazillionaire." Oh well, anyhoo – great song

Tuesday 3 May 2011

And So I Watch You From Afar - Search Party Animal [Song of the Day - May 3rd, '11)





How about a nice, heavy, musical interlude to get your off your arse and in the mood to take on the world after the Bank Holiday?


The band is And So I Watch You From Afar and are as far removed from anything else that has come out of Ireland in a long time. I do warn that if you're still suffering with the results of a long weekend of excess, this is not the song for you.






The band are currently touring with their new album 'Gangs' (out NOW) which the single 'Search:Party:Animal' is taken from. Tickets are still available for their shows, so for more information, visit their MySpace page HERE or get following them on TWITTER.

Monday 2 May 2011

THE COMPUTERS - MUSIC IS DEAD [Song of the Day, 2nd May, '11]

THE COMPUTERS - MUSIC IS DEAD




Well I would sincerely hope not, The Computers. Though I suspect if you listened to this particularly rowdy track from the punk-inspired, Exeter four piece loud enough, you could say goodbye to your eardrums. The look of the band an the feel of the video seems a complete contrast to the vocals and sound of the music but it's a marriage that works incredibly well.




Taken from their upcoming album This Is The Computers (due for release on May 16th), Music Is Dead is available TODAY so if you like it enough then feel free to download it from Amazon and Play.
Alternately, if you'd like to get your hands on a limited edition vinyl of the single, click here and go nuts.


For more information about their upcoming shows, visit the bands's website or hit up their MySpace.

Friday 29 April 2011

Song of the Day (29th April, '11) [Cheesy party special]



Kool & The Gang - Celebration
I think this is only fitting... Congratulations to Catherine and William, the new Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Now go kick up your heels and join the rest of the world in celebrating!

Thursday 28 April 2011

Song of the Day (28th April, '11)


DIGITALISM - 2 HEARTS
This will be the first release from the Germanic electro-dance acts forthcoming album "I Love You Dude", set for release on the 20th June. VERY EXCITED!


Download '2 Hearts' for FREE from SoundCloud.

Wednesday 27 April 2011

Let's take a moment to appreciate young, British talent...

I very nearly jumped out of my seat and squealed with unadulterated joy when I saw Ed Sheeran on Later Live... With Jools Holland last night. Three years ago I'm sure the man himself never thought he'd be sharing a time slot on BBC television with the likes of PJ Harvey but share it he did and he definitely held his own.


The 20-year-old singer/songwriter and general musical bod hailing from Halifax has quietly been doing his own thing since 2005 and by 2008 had already released 3 EPs. Already connected to some pretty big names in the industry (Jamie Foxx, Wiley, Tinchy Stryder and Example to name but a few) this young man is by no means untalented. Sheeran manages to create spectacular music simply by recording all the vocal samples, beats and guitar loops onto effects peddles, making his live performances intensive and engaging - all eyes on him.


He's releasing his first mainstream album '+' on Atlantic Records later in the year but if you can't wait til then, you can join his mailing list and download his free EP 'The One Take' from his website and keep up to date on a more regular/stalkerish way on his Twitter. You can also check out his popular single 'The A Team' which even made Zane Lowe's Hottest Record in The World last night on Radio 1. (The video cost £20 to make!)




Keep an eye out for this young man. Definitely one to watch.

SONG OF THE DAY (27th April, '11)





TOM VEK - A CHORE
I might be slightly addicted to Tom Vek's latest offering. Give it a listen and judge for yourselves.
Available for download HERE, if you're partial to a bit of catchy, indie goodness.
If you really like what Mr. Vek does, you can keep up to date with gigs and appearances on his website - just hit up http://tomvek.tv.

Wednesday 20 April 2011

A Superb Example of a Great New Track

When you think of Example, what comes to mind? Chart-friendly hits like 'Won't Go Quietly' or 'Kick Starts'? Or have you been following him since the days of the thought provoking 'What We Made'


Whatever has come before doesn't really have a patch on what's about to come, in my humble opinion.


 I absolutely LOVED the free single he released with Skream 'Shot Yourself In The Foot Again' - I thought the sound was different to the singles we've all been exposed to in the past so when I heard 'Changed The Way You Kiss Me' I got incredibly excited and insisted on playing it full volume on my massive headphones repeatedly. The drop is insane and the beat will ensure this is a 'floorfiller' (or whatever you kids are calling it these days). Don't believe me? Give it a listen (official video due for release soon. You'll know when it has. I won't be able to contain my excitement) -




Looks like Example is going to be a busy boy over the next few months, too. With his third album entitled 'Playing In The Shadows' due for release later this year (September, fingers crossed!), he's going to be beavering away in the studio getting that as tight as he can as well as performing at some of the summers biggest festivals. Check his website http://www.trythisforexample.com for more information and a list of festivals to best plan your stalking*.




(*Stalking is, of course, illegal and not something we should condone as a society)

Since No One Has Shown Me The Ropes, This Ship May Sink.

It was brought to my attention in a conversation earlier this week that I have a lot to say. It also is a fairly widely known fact that I love music (having once been described as an amalgamation of Annie Mac and Zane Lowe. My accent isn't half as interesting though).


I thought it might be interesting to start a blog where I can, in some way, combine these two facts. So here it is, a piddly little blog where I will probably end up ranting about the state of affairs in the industry, have a rave about any new bands or tunes that I stumble across or simply give my thoughts on something (I won't say 'review' - I am by no means any kind of reviewer, much as I would love to be. I just like writing, ask my old English teacher from school).


So this is my initial post. I am well aware that the theme and the name of the thing needs a helluva  lot of work; perhaps when I'm struck with inspiration I'll pop on and have a faff. I think this'll probably do for now though.


It'd mean a lot if you could be encouraging, by the way! No slating because I think we all know that doesn't really help anyone. And remember - opinions are like ass holes; we've all got one. Just because I say something that you might not necessarily agree with doesn't mean I'm wrong. We all have our likes and dislikes. That said, I do like a nice bit of variety and will give everything a listen so hopefully there'll be something for everyone here!