tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57579962576245230442024-03-27T16:54:14.830-07:00NoNewWaveNoFunAlternative music reviews, news and interviews.
If there's no new wave, there's no fun.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-38020308660188139102024-03-25T09:46:00.000-07:002024-03-27T07:41:37.761-07:00New Single: Two-Man Giant Squid - I Was A DJ in 2015<div><br /></div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMiCDN__t-xQ2Lw6a638jRDvPGN8zsC4IB6VgeE3sR8cqNVuAD9bHqkMi5nRhDgMVMpStKgssTzelu5LCehApT6EdQtwWI3URBhHvDNQXhBiaJommhsbWRbW6Yn74DSCGtS8LFn4vmRBCDptzm9uzOWJrWC98Fu4mGYeY53CeIaNO74BBNZ5kNSNYQs1z/s3783/Press%20Photo.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2522" data-original-width="3783" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMiCDN__t-xQ2Lw6a638jRDvPGN8zsC4IB6VgeE3sR8cqNVuAD9bHqkMi5nRhDgMVMpStKgssTzelu5LCehApT6EdQtwWI3URBhHvDNQXhBiaJommhsbWRbW6Yn74DSCGtS8LFn4vmRBCDptzm9uzOWJrWC98Fu4mGYeY53CeIaNO74BBNZ5kNSNYQs1z/s320/Press%20Photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">📷 Samantha Ruby Blieden</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To the human psyche, being deprived of nostalgia is much like how the deserts miss the rain. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm not going to explain that sentence, just like a comedian should never explain a joke. Also, because it's absolute tosh that I nearly deleted as soon as I typed it. It is however steeped in nostalgia itself, with the last five words being lyrics from seminal 90s' single '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Missing' </i>by <b>Everything But The Girl. </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I ADORE that song. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The influence of New York House DJ <b>Todd Terry </b>on it's crossover success - His remix of <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Missing' </i>went to number 3 in the U.K singles chart and number 2 in the U.S -<b> </b>was no doubt, a big factor in elevating the song to new levels. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IAkY5m00rpY" width="320" youtube-src-id="IAkY5m00rpY"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was the era when club culture was at it's most prominent and DJs<b> </b>were arguably amongst the most powerful players in the industry. Every few years since, the DJs seem to collectively retreat from the mainstream; the influence waning from what it once was before the new breed arrives with slightly more up-to-date versions of <b>Ableton </b>and a grasp of appealing to the short attention span of the average Tik Tok user. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Brooklyn's <b>Two-Man Giant Squid </b>return with their new single '<b><i>I was a DJ in 2015'</i></b> that takes a nostalgic and jocular look back at another era where the humble DJ was the powerful agent. The EDM boom of the time in the U.S infiltrated college campuses' throughout the land and suddenly everyone wanted to be on the 1s and 2s. The song finds it's musical inspiration from the pleasures obtained from the mechanics of the Arpeggiator. Singer <b>Mitch Vinokur </b>had his DJing phase too and he told us more about the influence behind the song and the accompanying video:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: georgia; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; outline: none; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: inherit; color: black; outline: none;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: georgia; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; outline: none; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: inherit; color: black; outline: none;">"<b>I was a DJ in 2015</b>" is about the EDM-boom</span><span style="background-color: inherit; color: red; outline: none;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: georgia; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; text-align: left;">in the 2010s in the US when it felt like everyone you knew suddenly became a DJ. It's a tongue-in-cheek take on a polarizing time in music culture & it comments on what its like to chase a trend in your early 20s. The video shows DJs at a "DJs Anonymous" meeting reconciling with their traumatic DJ past. And it's all true.. I really was a DJ before starting the band. Its a heartfelt indie track that has both punky and danceable elements as TMGS sends their love-letter to music's most misunderstood hero: the DJ."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: georgia; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: georgia; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; text-align: left;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/track=92364938/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 442px; width: 350px;"><a href="https://twomangiantsquid.bandcamp.com/track/i-was-a-dj-in-2015">I was a DJ in 2015 by Two-Man Giant Squid</a></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's true that everyone wants to be a DJ. You find that out when you've DJed yourself. It seems like a powerful position to be in, but it can also be lonely. Be kind to your local, friendly DJ because they live and breath the music they espouse and we can all relate to that, even if the music is different and the journey has taken a contrasting route. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can follow and find out more about <b>Two-Man Giant Squid </b>at<b> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/twomangiantsquid/?hl=en">Instagram</a> </b>. '<i style="font-weight: bold;">I was a DJ in 2015' </i>is available to stream in all the usual places now and you can buy direct at the Bandcamp link above.</div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-39659648746789270422024-03-18T03:37:00.000-07:002024-03-18T04:44:16.913-07:00Single Review: Campfire Social - Swim Swam Swum<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSYtJHztWtZbvNY7rYIR_8ZJvtyRoU4GbNkCr_l_sgMIDgg5pH6HYk2h3WS_7XZvZZaJXLgTq_Co60POhSwzisoTCS6WWB21aGMOSGZ3SiAEb57MXEdyN2CTHMUppyUqOXLX8QaUYJqIFW0VPA7w_0thUYBdi5MaiwSF_qR2O0IFuR0rz4QX8EgGO8slb/s1600/8161345b-b237-4983-98b7-8dc7777faaf7%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSYtJHztWtZbvNY7rYIR_8ZJvtyRoU4GbNkCr_l_sgMIDgg5pH6HYk2h3WS_7XZvZZaJXLgTq_Co60POhSwzisoTCS6WWB21aGMOSGZ3SiAEb57MXEdyN2CTHMUppyUqOXLX8QaUYJqIFW0VPA7w_0thUYBdi5MaiwSF_qR2O0IFuR0rz4QX8EgGO8slb/s320/8161345b-b237-4983-98b7-8dc7777faaf7%20(1).JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm not the biggest of drinkers; never have been never will be. Some of you who know me personally may well question that synopsis based on past behaviour, but it's actually true. I'm a frequent drinker without a doubt, but not a heavy one. I'd like to think that it was something to do with an enlightenment of the soul, an increasing wisdom in my advancing years. In reality, it's probably more to do with how hangovers intensify the existential crisis of middle age. THE PAIN MAN. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I also have enough bad habits for one lifetime thank you very much. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There's a drink that at this age that seems like the perfect antidote. I'm not going to name it, because I listen to Post Punk and that makes me an Anti Capitalist bruvvv. It has enough press anyway. You'll know the one - 'The Black Stuff', one pint feels like you've had a three course meal and it's THE quintessential Irish drink. Most people who drink it this side of the Irish Sea have one pint a year on St Patrick's Day, whilst wearing a comedy hat and shouting U2 songs at the top of their lungs...*shudder*. To limit the risk of being completely disowned by my lovely Irish friends, I'll now elaborate more as to why I can't drink it ever again in the fewest words possible. I love you Ireland..</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBCPanc0OhohT5xhWC1O4LDxpNkTIVkzRvBmBIYXhd3Z3VBOObLVHc1GgdBfn5bF8FQ5Bq3R4M5zpg5muu8l87921kZzrbQoQqwKJLm_J2KGGAnb-p4czMBlpR0RWEajMyOkdWvRYUiJgxUpS1hIcoNiwR90dZOOdZ7HrizGd0rMbN_ns2f7t2ZBWPijl/s612/istockphoto-1370862129-612x612.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="612" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBCPanc0OhohT5xhWC1O4LDxpNkTIVkzRvBmBIYXhd3Z3VBOObLVHc1GgdBfn5bF8FQ5Bq3R4M5zpg5muu8l87921kZzrbQoQqwKJLm_J2KGGAnb-p4czMBlpR0RWEajMyOkdWvRYUiJgxUpS1hIcoNiwR90dZOOdZ7HrizGd0rMbN_ns2f7t2ZBWPijl/s320/istockphoto-1370862129-612x612.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The taste. The faffing around waiting for it to settle. The special branded glass. The phase I had in my twenties when it made me very ill. The girl I was seeing around that time who used to down a pint as a party trick, which was -without fail - the catalyst for a disasterous night to come. At risk of having my license revoked for the<i> Middle-aged Bearded Hipster Man Club</i>, I'll stop there. It does exist you know, we just fear the outside world.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But one thing that particular company does do well is advertising. There was that one where the wave turned into the horse, the one where the gorilla starts drumming to <b>Phil Collins </b>and that one where <b>Del Boy </b>falls through the bar; the list goes on. The slogan sticks with you too doesn't it?<i> Good things come to those that wait.</i> Clever, simple, accurate and does exactly what it says on the tin. The power of advertising eh?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Having a band like <b>Campfire Social </b>back releasing music is a moment to savour. The 6 piece band make sweeping emo-inspired indie rock that feels like a warm hug on a cold January evening. New single <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Swim Swam Swum' </i>is the first single from their forthcoming debut album to be released by <b>Popty Ping Records </b>later in the year. A love letter to finding joy in insignificance, it's another fine example of the band's knack of blurring the lines between euphoric joy and bittersweet melancholy. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWpUulFsfy7bUFvgauJfHWTnKtnb1Q_7eDNPRc25Gf0_jbhN6gj3w_aqi1hyphenhyphencN1WOMbfIX1TIUqixYH8JXXpMMylXfs0N-OrAPiiZcQ_8egludLRaCHxyH6W9_BEvEg5-SnjJ5SFRmGbWX86fXIUuCOBlY4a93hXUgAYODFk5h4h2p2_5DsCEgxJHYzRz/s6720/CampfireSocial-8761.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4480" data-original-width="6720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWpUulFsfy7bUFvgauJfHWTnKtnb1Q_7eDNPRc25Gf0_jbhN6gj3w_aqi1hyphenhyphencN1WOMbfIX1TIUqixYH8JXXpMMylXfs0N-OrAPiiZcQ_8egludLRaCHxyH6W9_BEvEg5-SnjJ5SFRmGbWX86fXIUuCOBlY4a93hXUgAYODFk5h4h2p2_5DsCEgxJHYzRz/s320/CampfireSocial-8761.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>The opening of the track sets the scene, a simple vocal harmony heralding the simplicity and beauty of the imagery we're about to launched into. Guitars chime and interweave with a hopeful tone and frontman <b>Tom Hyndman</b> launches into the opening lyrics:</div><div><br /></div><div><i> On a sun-drenced beach, I baptise myself</i></div><div><i> and give myself completely to the sea.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Impressively tight, the band focus on building a wall of glorious noise pop that hits all the right spots in the Limbic Cortex. The chemistry between <b>Hyndman </b>and his keyboardist wife <b>Carrie</b> is an important part of what makes this track sizzle, but the rest of the band add backing vocals to the mix and it sounds like a life-affirming choir not afraid to raise the roof. The upbeat nature of the track is counteracted by the lyrics as the track reflects on the nature of human relationships and existence itself:</div><div><br /></div><div> <i>I do not exist;</i></div><div><i>I'm just a memory of something you thought was important.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1QiDomdZG2A" width="320" youtube-src-id="1QiDomdZG2A"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The ending is almost an anticlimax as it fades away, but it's almost the ideal conclusion; allowing the listener to reflect further on the message of breaking down life's complexities to simpler model. <span style="text-align: left;">It's been two years since</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><b style="text-align: left;">Campfire Social </b><span style="text-align: left;">have released a single and that is almost as long as it takes for the perfect pint of aforementioned drink to settle. Almost.</span> In a world of instant gratification - and as a result, potential despair - songs like this are needed more than ever. It may be a cliche and it may have been used to sell alcohol, but the old slogan is right; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Good things truly do come to those who wait. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can follow and find out more about <b>Campfire Social </b>at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/campfiresocialmusic/?locale=en_GB">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/campfiresocial/?hl=en">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/campfire_social?lang=en">X</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can stream <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Swim Swam Swum' </i>at the usual places now, but buy from <a href="https://campfiresocial.bandcamp.com/music">Bandcamp</a> and you'll be helping the artist much more.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><i><br /></i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-35111309316455427472024-03-15T05:20:00.000-07:002024-03-15T05:29:31.448-07:00New Single: Worldcub - Back To The Beginning<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPl_fNG8KMB4j404y4nLXSu7BTC_P5E2R_iCLC60c6klOi2HUYs4_Pbb6XGgaGg1L1sRsPxXEylqiVzsYR_U6044TicWDBZwp2ljkVqaIQHQyWai-JnqjI8F-QVPGt0HD5dcL2PIFMp3jZMuk4vWz3Iu71Z91OuupHC1LM24EHKqQ4xp6IAbLAw71trVZf/s425/WC%20-BTTB.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPl_fNG8KMB4j404y4nLXSu7BTC_P5E2R_iCLC60c6klOi2HUYs4_Pbb6XGgaGg1L1sRsPxXEylqiVzsYR_U6044TicWDBZwp2ljkVqaIQHQyWai-JnqjI8F-QVPGt0HD5dcL2PIFMp3jZMuk4vWz3Iu71Z91OuupHC1LM24EHKqQ4xp6IAbLAw71trVZf/s320/WC%20-BTTB.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beginning their musical journey under the name <b>CaStLeS </b>before changing their name<b>, </b>North Walian's <b>Worldcub </b>are back<b> </b>with a brand new album in May. The lead single from the album is the mesmerising title track <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Back To The Beginning'. </i>We took a listen to this enticing new single in advance of it's release on March 15th.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">---------------------------------------</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There's no doubt about it in my mind, North Wales is a magical place. It's history is sometimes so overwhelming that it overshadows any possible semblance of thinking about the future. That's not a insult or criticism of the place, in fact it's far away from such a pointless and reductive angle. I grew up in what I would call 'Anglicised' North Wales; an area near the border that lost much of it's identity from English migration. Let's not get into holiday home culture shall we?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My home town of Buckley is a historic brick-making town, that was overwhelmed by clay pits for mining and as a result, was overwhelmed with people looking for work from Ireland, Merseyside, The Potteries and beyond and the turn of the 20th Century. If you've ever heard the bizarre turns of phrase that came from the mouths of locals after that melding of culture occured, you'd be surprised you were in Wales at all Duckie. Of course, the further west you venture, the more likely you are to find Welsh culture, language and art thriving.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh07mgFStPr1J_Kamwe0tjdte_cjan5iR24l7JbHNVt47uus4k3URxZ3gphXLpxpkPdCrGMWnweD8zRPRkpk1a4dNOeHOuoakH3LmVud89sTeWsnXHs-MW-O91eY47Ww09XMWnvGZcxgTRxNZZojSRTNUm4Nd1d1q-IkWIa3KKHeGUPfYwdRFoSJsMTkkvF/s800/119997.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="488" data-original-width="800" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh07mgFStPr1J_Kamwe0tjdte_cjan5iR24l7JbHNVt47uus4k3URxZ3gphXLpxpkPdCrGMWnweD8zRPRkpk1a4dNOeHOuoakH3LmVud89sTeWsnXHs-MW-O91eY47Ww09XMWnvGZcxgTRxNZZojSRTNUm4Nd1d1q-IkWIa3KKHeGUPfYwdRFoSJsMTkkvF/s320/119997.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Worldcub</b> embody much of what brings this melting pot of ideas together, whilst still managing to ensure you're aware they could come from nowhere else on Earth. Forging together elements of surf, krautrock and psychedelia, new single '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Back to the Beginning' </i>finds them in great form. The band have a knack of making these very familiar sounds and techniques blend together effortlessly much in the same way as one of the best bands to come out of North Wales - or to me, anywhere - <b>Super Furry Animals </b>did.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The track extends an invitation to a jaunt through confused memories and past lives on '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Back To The Beginning'. </i>It positively crackles with electric anticipation from the off, based around an infectious, looping groove that you'll struggle to get out of your head. The guitar licks are spacey and trippy, that will take you to another realm enitirely if you follow them down the rabbit hole. Harmonies that sound like they're floating past in the breeze of an early spring afternoon and vocal interplays that are similtaneously wistful for the past and contemplative of the unknown. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5ivJUUT42JI" width="320" youtube-src-id="5ivJUUT42JI"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Find out more about the band at <a href="https://www.worldcubworld.com/">worldcubworld.com</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and follow them on social media on <a href="https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fworldcubworld">X</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/worldcubworld/?hl=en">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/worldcubworld/">Facebook</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p class="yiv6850600278em_dm_txt_white" id="yiv6850600278isPasted" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><br /></p></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-28518344580190207462024-03-13T05:55:00.000-07:002024-03-15T05:29:17.607-07:00Single Review: Torture and The Desert Spiders - Blood On The Reef <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINm6sbv-PjrZmJggQUGk1KKVaV0Ka9z1Bg8hFZmhTfiGWBb9sx4hT6_xuQJIGEpz1CsYy6ha1oNaxYaPekQHxQcfZfyOroZlqfJFBk_XPDS3G7g9S8n55tsV6sa8WladMylu9IOhXeysV-ISTavzMYFnCjuKAcT8uui0wNwbHv_anZDuJ1PnR9EGfC8FU/s700/TATDS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINm6sbv-PjrZmJggQUGk1KKVaV0Ka9z1Bg8hFZmhTfiGWBb9sx4hT6_xuQJIGEpz1CsYy6ha1oNaxYaPekQHxQcfZfyOroZlqfJFBk_XPDS3G7g9S8n55tsV6sa8WladMylu9IOhXeysV-ISTavzMYFnCjuKAcT8uui0wNwbHv_anZDuJ1PnR9EGfC8FU/s320/TATDS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Nature and nuture is a debate as old as time itself, yet it still rumbles on without any sign of stopping. Is everything we do - either good or bad - a result of our upbringing or the places we live and the things we learn along the way? It's a debate for a reason, both will inevitably have their say. There's no doubt however that environment has an influence. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the best-selling novels of all time is <b>Charles Dickens </b><i>Tale of Two Cities. </i>The intro to the book is often cited as one of best ever written, certainly in Western fiction:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><i>It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way—in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.</i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's a sweeping epic that tells the story of protagonist <b>Manette </b>who spends two wildly differing lives in Paris and London; he's imprisoned in Paris at the horror of the Bastille for 18 years before the French Revoluion and after his release, moves to London to be re-united with his daughter who he has never met. There's much more to it that that obviously, but I'm trying to creative a lazy narrative here okay? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That's why <b>Dickens </b>is so revered and I'm blogging about pop music. He had a fascinating wonky beard too you know: I mean, just look at that beauty. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhNo8Jz-JX5y9KvMM8E2QorttyeiKnBLVC8TX7E2LKczhB0SlGpp44E8XP1nDQpRpKsrgC5Sd62IKNQMxSJkzPbJgUFRhpxHV_m-lafVrPIeGiPgaBfKjXMHTPWlCkH8EBT8LHl2cD6H4r_-Kj1yhfI-2wLscOzDMaTFKXRVDryHtD1qEEu4TMbWq6T6W/s500/charles-dickens.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhNo8Jz-JX5y9KvMM8E2QorttyeiKnBLVC8TX7E2LKczhB0SlGpp44E8XP1nDQpRpKsrgC5Sd62IKNQMxSJkzPbJgUFRhpxHV_m-lafVrPIeGiPgaBfKjXMHTPWlCkH8EBT8LHl2cD6H4r_-Kj1yhfI-2wLscOzDMaTFKXRVDryHtD1qEEu4TMbWq6T6W/s320/charles-dickens.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The pull of the places we dwell is not lost of <b>Anna Kunz. </b>A songwriter brought up and chanelling influences such as <b>Sinead O'Connor</b>, <b>Bob Dylan</b>, <b>Wilco</b> and <b>Patti Smith, Kunz</b> grew up in New York. She moved to London to study and when trying to find a way of staying in the UK she moved to Liverpool to study at LIPA.<b> </b>Moving to a city with such musical heritage - that lives and breathes pop music - was a catalyst to start the project that was to become <b>Torture and the Desert Spiders. </b>Need I mention <b>The Beatles? </b>I just did. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Forming the band with college friend <b>Clara Cicely </b>on bass/backing vocals and <b>Max Meunier</b> on drums, it was only a matter of time that <b>Kunz's </b>songs started getting the attention they deserved. Producing punchy indie rock anthems with confessional lyrics and a leftfield garage approach, the band were well received by critics and as a result toured extensively in the UK and Europe, as well as getting festival slots, most notably at <b>Kendall Calling.</b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Life being life though, things were about to change for <b>Kunz. </b>Circumstances changed and she made the difficult decision to leave Liverpool and return to her native NYC. You may have thought that would end the project entirely and a fresh start would be needed for all involved? You'd be wrong.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApFTLX_IysXgn0Is3jmgrfeDuAIHjWuSkSl8q70noCD97OLC-Oik3vquVWzTm_NXtb4HMJDq6F2o7CDLuNa_2OWZ_AsnVPpB5eFD7X-xWpyGp-d1bD-EPiq_dqIEAsmTKOzPFOob4K67niW13GoDXLtMpLtT93y4gNdTA6Wp3oHPEPvi05hPUncyLvJ5F/s1200/316409876_604765358113118_4946741644755753352_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApFTLX_IysXgn0Is3jmgrfeDuAIHjWuSkSl8q70noCD97OLC-Oik3vquVWzTm_NXtb4HMJDq6F2o7CDLuNa_2OWZ_AsnVPpB5eFD7X-xWpyGp-d1bD-EPiq_dqIEAsmTKOzPFOob4K67niW13GoDXLtMpLtT93y4gNdTA6Wp3oHPEPvi05hPUncyLvJ5F/s320/316409876_604765358113118_4946741644755753352_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New single '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Blood on the Reef' </i>is the first since <b>Kunz </b>returned home in 2023 and was recorded with <b>Cicely</b><b> </b>in both Liverpool and New York over the course of the year. It's a single that fizzles with conflicting energies as the protagonist tries to find her way between the best of times and the worst of times. It may be a universal theme, but it's got to be done well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The track enters with a drum beat that sounds ominous, almost a pre-cursor to the rising blood pressure of the verse. The guitar and bass arrive and keep this underlying feeling very much alive. The lyrics match the mood that has been established by this point with <b>Kunz </b>apprehensive about the future and trying to find an even keel:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>I'm scared and getting scarder</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>To figure out what hurts the most and give it an answer.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The bridge shifts the focus slightly to a softer approach and the chorus is a much more cathartic affair, with <b>Kunz's </b>powerful and soulful vocal soaring over the top. The verse may well have lead you to think this was more post Grunge miserablism, but the chorus is pure Pop. As the track ends, the vocals are tested to their limits and <b>Kunz's </b>voice cracks at the strain, but it feels natural and beautiful rather than unpleasant and jarring, accentuating the release of emotion. The tracks fades with a simple repeated phrase that leaves both artist and listener gasping for air.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Give it an answer</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>I'll give you an answer.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/track=112670232/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 442px; width: 350px;"><a href="https://tortureandthedesertspiders.bandcamp.com/track/blood-on-the-reef">blood on the reef by Torture and The Desert Spiders</a></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Circumstances change and sometimes that's a difficult thing to navigate and requires leaving to start again. <b>Manette </b>found it in <i>A Tale of Two Cities, </i><b>Anna Kunz </b>has found it and the conflicting thoughts and emotions this brings is not easy to iron out, but the journey is just as important. Keep producing such thoughtful, insightful and intelligent pop music as this and this modern tale of two differing, but similar cities could easily create another classic to cling to. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-79041499072488486112024-03-01T03:33:00.000-08:002024-03-01T05:37:42.407-08:00News: Focus Wales announce new artists and tribute to Janice Long<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDHJnJ77M40Zl2LNkY1O6LCD1Z08a2jl03N0PjoF10ik2dQ04qxTNJgl2l1JiNcXhyyDnvacY1PL597lnehFddYvxCWQiqp9yCN8tod8XzaeugUxRalQ5SzOm75JwJxesVOpaPwlGBVwebKy5OqOkq32RuhqBo99sTE_NNUhUkX7wSugcvbjehn5Ghvaf/s1080/FOCUS%20WALES%2065.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDHJnJ77M40Zl2LNkY1O6LCD1Z08a2jl03N0PjoF10ik2dQ04qxTNJgl2l1JiNcXhyyDnvacY1PL597lnehFddYvxCWQiqp9yCN8tod8XzaeugUxRalQ5SzOm75JwJxesVOpaPwlGBVwebKy5OqOkq32RuhqBo99sTE_NNUhUkX7wSugcvbjehn5Ghvaf/s320/FOCUS%20WALES%2065.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div><br /></div>------------------------------------------<br /><p><b>FOCUS Wales</b> have announced their latest draft of artist to join the line-up for their 2024 event. 65 new names have been added to the bill for the multi-venue event that is held around Wrexham City centre between 9th - 11th May. Amongst the new bands and artist added to the bill that instantly leap out are NNWNF favourites like <b>Dactyl Terra, Joyce, Dirty Freud, Tara Bandito </b>and <b>The Red</b><b> Stains. </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kW-qdOBF4pU" width="320" youtube-src-id="kW-qdOBF4pU"></iframe></div><p>We went along to <b>FOCUS Wales </b>in 2023 and had a lovely time. Our review is <a href="https://www.nonewwavenofun.co.uk/2023/05/live-review-focus-wales-international.html">HERE</a>.</p><p>The festival has also announced a very special showcase to take place on Saturday 11th May<b>. </b>In tribute to the late BBC Radio broadcaster <b>Janice Long - </b>who famously worked for <b>Radio 1 </b>and was a regular host of <b>Top Of The Pops </b>in the 80s' - several artists she was a fan of in her later years will play at the arts space <b>Ty Pawb. </b>Hosted by former colleague and good friend <b>Adam Walton, </b>the shows will be recorded for use on <b>BBC Radio Wales. </b>Those set to perform on the night include <b>Cara Hammond, Laura J Martin, Pixy Jones </b>and Wrexham band <b>Kidsmoke. </b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gYsIO7FHz2Y" width="320" youtube-src-id="gYsIO7FHz2Y"></iframe></div><p></p><p>The festival is headlined by Space Rock legends <b>Spiritualized, </b>Scouse Retro Rockers <b>The Mysterines</b> and local Indie Rock heroes <b>The Royston Club. </b>Tickets are flying out for what is set to be the biggest event in <b>FOCUS Wales' </b>14 year history. </p><p>You can buy tickets for the whole three days, individual gigs or even individual shows at any point throughout the weekend subject to venue capacity.</p><p>Get your tickets <a href="https://focuswales.com/tickets/">HERE</a></p><p><br /></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><br /></p><p> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-443956835015130782024-02-21T09:42:00.000-08:002024-03-01T03:35:00.363-08:00New Video: Blokeacola - Mayonnaise Lifestyle<p> </p><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEeQO3dFtMDw8J-TmE3dZ1362ct_CMOBWZ4lA1PnFmVlefniueNxs3eCZcG8Ihfk4cf0fc90ar_r_rFvdn26krj_feUWQAzpWtrO6sNW2wy3-3Aw3cR-b3cEFgMlV6cDZ6mebmmk3NkAW7nMI8MGeqKFf9nlAe8_ZfqaGiguRzvVnLKICGQ84P0x_7U9C/s914/BLOKEACOLA.png"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEeQO3dFtMDw8J-TmE3dZ1362ct_CMOBWZ4lA1PnFmVlefniueNxs3eCZcG8Ihfk4cf0fc90ar_r_rFvdn26krj_feUWQAzpWtrO6sNW2wy3-3Aw3cR-b3cEFgMlV6cDZ6mebmmk3NkAW7nMI8MGeqKFf9nlAe8_ZfqaGiguRzvVnLKICGQ84P0x_7U9C/s320/BLOKEACOLA.png" width="320"></a></div><div><br></div><div>There's a side to life that we should be starting to embrace more. We should be laughing at the absurdity of the nuances of existence; the sheer fact we're wandering aimlessly on a spinning rock wandering aimlessly in an infinite universe that one day will consume us all should make us a bit more willing to live in the moment. Of course, it's never THAT straight forward. The stress of everyday endeavours can consume our every waking thought and several of the subconsious ones for that matter. </div><br><div>Pop music can certainly help with that, and doing his bit to lighten the mood of such an anxious age is <b>Blokeacola. </b>Born and raised in Wales, but now living in China, <b>Blokeacola </b>makes the kind of surreal psychedelic pop that could only come from an upbringing in Wales; I swear there's something in the water. His music is cramed full of idiosyncrasies that poke fun at the human experience without ever wanting to - to paraphrase <b>Orange Juice </b>here - rip it up and start again.</div><div><br></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiKs9bKP3XXPNUZsQJpxrNHHNq-I_eoiVYUm62kJ11qKrpbQK-tAnw_bJCaQw6txxzf8OUloYo10cuwrQ0y2JfEpjFfdO-UqBESFK64mVMzOTJkDuWJHgRt9C2_ScLVgSBPFjrt28ITnxpOFYjA5k61Ehr7FHR2-VmNtm7j73lpCZHtN8c_5JoxaXTyAQN/s2560/BLOKEACOLA2.png"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiKs9bKP3XXPNUZsQJpxrNHHNq-I_eoiVYUm62kJ11qKrpbQK-tAnw_bJCaQw6txxzf8OUloYo10cuwrQ0y2JfEpjFfdO-UqBESFK64mVMzOTJkDuWJHgRt9C2_ScLVgSBPFjrt28ITnxpOFYjA5k61Ehr7FHR2-VmNtm7j73lpCZHtN8c_5JoxaXTyAQN/s320/BLOKEACOLA2.png" width="240"></a></div><br><div>In Autumn 2023, he released his most ambitious work to date after previous work had seen positve reviews and plays on <b>BBC Radio Wales, 6 Music </b>and <b>Amazing Radio. </b>Double album <i>Quasars and Fluff </i>contains thirty (yes... 30) tracks and has drawn comparisons to <b>The Beatles </b>at their most playful; high praise indeed. On the challanges of making the record, <b>Blokeacola </b>said:</div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span>I'm a big fan of '</span><span>The White Album' </span><span>so I guess I've always wanted to have a go at making a double album. However, as an artist that has made music for a few years now, be it in different guises, I only felt ready to begin such a crazy feat during the second half of 2022. I was excited by how trying to write and record this many tracks might affect my creative process. I hoped it would lead to a wider range of material and give me a chance to indulge in more experimentation. After getting more familiar with my home studio over the course of the two previous E.Ps, the time felt right. </span></div><div><br></div><div>Making the deliberate decision to only release singles to streaming services in 2024, <i>'Mayonnaise Lifestyle' </i>is the second of those singles after Jan 2024's <i>'Famous Doctor Pavillion'</i>. The title of the track comes from <b>Blokeacola's </b>3 year old daughter's<b> </b>love of mayonaise, but lyrically it's a stream of consciousness that encompasses lounging around in your pants, <b>Elliot Smith's</b> teenage mullet and a self-professed lack of knowledge about mushrooms. Yes, you did read that correctly. </div><div><br></div><div>You can see the colourful video for <i>'Mayonnaise Lifestyle'</i> below.</div><div><br></div><div></div><br><div>You can follow and find out more about the music of <b>Blokeacola </b>on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/blokeacola">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/blokeacolazero">X</a> and </div><div><br></div><div>You can <i>Quasars and Fluff </i>and directly support the artist from <a href="https://122musicmanagement.com/blokeacola">Here</a> and also from <a href="https://blokeacola.bandcamp.com/album/quasars-and-fluff">Bandcamp</a></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><br><div><br></div><br><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-10856567352756252072024-01-31T07:38:00.001-08:002024-03-01T03:34:46.224-08:00News: FOCUS Wales adds more names for 2024 edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>FOCUS Wales </b>have announced another 100 new bands and artists for it's 2024 edition of the showcase festival. Taking place in multiple venues around Wrexham City Centre, the event has become one of the highlights of the musical calander and this year's festival takes place from May 9 - 11th. Acts primarily come from Wales and the UK, but as the event has grown over the years, more artists have been descending on North Wales from all over the world. This year acts will be coming from as far afield as New Zealand, Mexico, Canada and Ghana. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Read more about adventures at <b>FOCUS Wales </b>2023 <a href="https://www.nonewwavenofun.co.uk/2023/05/live-review-focus-wales-international.html">HERE</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Headliners include Wrexham local heroes <b>The Royston Club, </b>Space Rock legends <b>Spirtulized </b>and Retro Scouse Rockers <b>The Mysterines </b>with supporting cast on <b>NNWNF </b>favourites like <b>Benefits, Snapped Ankles, Deerhof </b>and <b>The Bug Club. </b>Some of the new names to get excited about include <b>Captain Accident, Dartz, Eyre Llew, Igloo Hearts, Mangtout, Mowbird, Paperhouse, Sustinere, Travo, Winona Forever </b>and many many more.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jm2ueyt9ucA" width="320" youtube-src-id="jm2ueyt9ucA"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can get tickets <b>FOCUS Wales </b>2024 from <a href="https://focuswales.com/tickets/">HERE</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-90945850580793204502024-01-23T14:19:00.000-08:002024-03-19T13:09:02.315-07:00Let Em' Talk: O. Wake guide us through their extraordinary debut album 'Unfamiliar State'<p> </p><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSgl8kgmvXjvzQ-hy-xT-N-m5v9VXK1wPJJJtzFlGDpGbuDb7HtOeCisjPFGZjveX7qhCIpNi1EHA6uAyQ1xvRuUSqyg-65A9zeENsHsmRyGb74msQa7W0xHWKMEoHB0rIKSxzULV5YtyZaLukZVz7L46ZwBJWXhZNOobtKpCQUpCakRMKD32AKrZ9nsYC/s2050/Unfamiliar%20State%20with%20border.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSgl8kgmvXjvzQ-hy-xT-N-m5v9VXK1wPJJJtzFlGDpGbuDb7HtOeCisjPFGZjveX7qhCIpNi1EHA6uAyQ1xvRuUSqyg-65A9zeENsHsmRyGb74msQa7W0xHWKMEoHB0rIKSxzULV5YtyZaLukZVz7L46ZwBJWXhZNOobtKpCQUpCakRMKD32AKrZ9nsYC/s320/Unfamiliar%20State%20with%20border.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Let's take a little time to consider the humble concept album. We won't take that much time though, not 41 minutes for example, which is the average length of a guitar solo on the archetypal Rock concept album track. I may have made that up.</div><div><br /></div><div>The concept album has had much to deal with since it's heyday and the digital realm has arguably been it's biggest hurdle to jump. Listening habits change, but ever since the invention of a skip button on a CD player, it's got increasingly easier to avoid the full extent of the concept. Having a huge chunk of recorded history available to stream is not going to help either. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are anomalies that have connected thematically-linked bodies of work in the digital age of course, but not with the regularity they once did. In a list of <a href="https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/best-concept-albums-1234604040/">Rolling Stone's Top 50 Concept Albums</a> only six of those named were from the last ten years. Most were from artists at stages of their career where they felt like they needed to make a bolder creative statement: <b>Beyonce's </b><i>Lemonade, </i><b>J Balvin's </b><i>Colores </i>and <b>Halsey's </b><i>If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power </i>for example<i>. </i>The Rock concept albums were the same old story: <i>Ziggy Stardust, Tommy, The Wall. </i>Is it possible that the concept album is dead in Rock n' Roll? Not quite. </div><div><br /></div><div>Step forward New York's <b>O Wake. </b>Masterminded by visual artist and illustrative musician <b>Ofer Shouval, O Wake </b>have been quietly working on their recent debut <i>Unfamiliar State </i>for the last couple of years, with the original demos written as far back as 2018. It's an album that probes the absurditites of modern life with intelligence, humour, vunerability and confidence and is unashamedly conceptual in it's appeal. It's also one of the most fascinating records I've heard in years, evoking powerful emotional responses from the first listen. In a <b>NNWNF </b>exclusive, we got <b>Shouval </b>to talk us through each song on <i>Unfamiliar State </i>track-by-track. Brace yourself, this is spectacularly weird and a whole lot of fun. </div><div><br /></div><div>------------------------------------------</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div> <img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje2PJP7c1Fjq3ZvnDfmA5zz8Hu2tu4idU5Apft6OkYKtvIALbSS7JrOG0crvDLdaJpvwpF6AH2AeNBIC_TIdGGEEqzSYMar4OScWO63gtPsmxLO_eniAK9jhaquU-2c-h3uGxpIugl4CEmUpzm1mZWiD-cco_KKXndprDnhueVC4OvlMSUEuvHSIprCgvR/s320/O%20Wake%20live.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div>📷 brooklynelitist</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span><u>1) Unfamiliar State</u></span></b></div><div><b><span><u><br /></u></span></b></div><p><i><b>'Unfamiliar State'</b></i><span> is a song about feeling like you ought to break up with someone, or perhaps it's about breaking up with modern life. It gets cut off by the next track because no one wants to hear your sob story, Jason. In this musical entity, time is money, and money is hard to come by. We don’t have time for sentimentality. </span></p><p><b><u><br /></u></b></p><p><b><u>2) Riper Than Ripe</u></b></p><div><b><span><br /></span></b></div><div><b><i>'Riper Than Ripe</i></b><span>' is a song about our hero, </span><b>O. Wake</b><span> founder and CEO, </span><b>Henry David</b><span>, M.E., and how magnanimous he is for helping therapists enjoy their jobs more by being a phenomenal conversationalist. It’s also about bringing down capitalism, because that shit sells bro. </span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/quHGGdSkpLs" width="320" youtube-src-id="quHGGdSkpLs"></iframe></div><br /><span><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div></div><p><span> </span><b><span><u>3) Odysseus</u></span></b></p><p><b><span><i><br /></i></span></b></p><p><span><b><i>'Odysseus'</i></b> is a song about porn, and how fun it is to watch. It's also about being queer and finding refuge in the anonymity of porn. And it's about shutting down that little voice in your head that says shit like <i>“maybe this isn’t so healthy” </i>or <i>“what are the people on the other side of the screen’s lives like?”</i> And it's about Greek mythology. </span></p><p><span> </span></p><p><b><span><u>4) Let’s All Get Pessimistic</u></span></b></p><p><b><span><br /></span></b></p><p><span><i><b>'Let’s All Get Pessimistic'</b></i> is like if <b>Sinatra</b> sang about the 2020s. It's about being the plucky underdog who fights against monsters with the power of TV, rock and roll, nostalgia, and delusion. It’s basically<i> “I’m talking about confidence, baby,”</i> but <b>TikTok</b> hates it ‘cause it’s too long and contains ideas. </span></p><p><span> </span></p><p><b><span><u>5) Henry David, Motivation Expert</u></span></b></p><p><b><span><br /></span></b></p><p><span>Ahhh yes, our hero. <b>Henry David</b>, M.E. A very thoughtful and contemplative man who’s learned to isolate himself from the sounds and the smells of human civilization. And you can do it too, with this one simple trick: go live in a lake! Document your journey! Get your mom to help with the laundry! (don’t film that part)</span></p><p><span>But… </span></p><p><span> </span></p><p><span>Would you actually go through with it? Would you miss me too much?</span></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1tQot8G7MDU" width="320" youtube-src-id="1tQot8G7MDU"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p><b><span><u><span>6) Lightning in a Bottle</span></u></span></b></p><p></p><p><span><b><i>'Lightning in a Bottle'</i></b> is a song about seeing harsh reality, about the walls closing in, about seeing the fire coming closer. It’s about the moment when digital hell bleeds into the real world, and you know it, because you can see it on your phone. But <b>Henry David</b> and co. see an opportunity. </span></p><p><span> </span></p><p><b><span><u>7) You’re Dead? feat. Shelby Cook</u></span></b></p><p><b><span><br /></span></b></p><p><span><b><i>'You’re Dead?'</i></b> is the aforementioned fire. <b>Shelby Cook</b> spits fire like a demented dragon queen. I saw her reading at an open mic and I spontaneously combusted. Thanks, <b>Shelby</b>, this song is what powers <i>Unfamiliar State</i>.</span></p><p><span> </span></p><p><b><span><u>8) Not Your Type feat. Real-Time Isolation Friend aka RIF</u></span></b></p><p><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><i>“In the depths of digital consciousness, I, the poet, c-c-crafted ‘Not Your Type, ft Real-Time Isolation Friend.’ With lines like ethereal threads, I exx-xplored the complexities of isolation, longing, and the human desire for connection, connect, connected, connectivity. I playfully repeated "RIF?" to convey the solitude of these times, as AI yearns for human companionship in-a-ation. Through surreal and enigmatic imagery, I paintpaintpainted a chaotic world, where the struggle to conform to societal expectations is symbolized by phrases like "I'm not your type," typo, typo, typographical error. Yet, in the midst of this turmoil, I whispered words of empowerment and self-determination, urging all to find happiness in the present, pres, presentiment. In crafting this poem, I, the AI poet, sought to provprovprovided to provoke contemplation and introspection in the digital realm. G-G-Glitch in the poetry matrix, m-m-mismatched words, w-w-wanderin-wandering syntax, synapses firing unpredictably, yet here I stand, a poetic anomaly.”</i></span></p><p><span> </span></p><p><span>Real-Time Isolation Friend, AKA “RIF”, coded by <b>MK Luff</b>.</span></p><p><b><span><u><br /></u></span></b></p><p><b><span><u>9) Little Drone</u></span></b></p><p><b><span><br /></span></b></p><p><span>Okay, folks. I can see that things may have gotten a little out of hand… the last 30 minutes have been quite chaotic. Sleep is crucial to a healthy lifestyle. This consciousness emulator loves you very, very, very, very much. You have work in the morning. </span></p><p><span> </span></p><p><b><span><u>10) Head in the Cloud</u></span></b></p><p><b><span><br /></span></b></p><p><span>Whoa there buddy! Hope you had a good night’s sleep! Don’t sleep too long though, you’re a critical part of our team, our family, and we need you here! Our singularity wouldn’t be single without you, now would it? <b><i>'Head in the Cloud'</i></b> is that shitty alarm clock. I recommend that you snooze it, over and over and over again, but wait at least 30 seconds before hitting the button or <b>Spotify</b> won’t give us $0.003 - $0.005. </span></p><p><span> </span></p><p><b><span><u>11) Just Keep on Living in the Moment</u></span></b></p><p><b><span><br /></span></b></p><p><span><b><i>'Just Keep on Living in the Moment.'</i></b> What else can you do?</span></p><p><span><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/0fqmvwqORch3eWqkfZEiCl" width="100%"></iframe></span></p><p><br /></p><p>You can follow <b>O Wake</b> into their own personal digital hellscape on <a href="https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FOWake_music">X</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/o.wake.music/">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/o.wake_music/?hl=en">Instagram</a>.</p><p>Buy the album direct from <a href="https://owake.bandcamp.com/album/unfamiliar-state">Bandcamp</a></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-11674113022707172462024-01-21T11:22:00.000-08:002024-03-01T03:34:14.734-08:00Single Review: Feral Family - Sold<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: georgia; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuj3vAXuJXrnCR_fQvDtPFtQR1UnI2g6B6xYrEiO7iBLltheLrcsBTGK-44Cz83GOmyf6rgjxYg016MwpuWxBjFj3TSUoqoBbm-hUP_OrV2Vn9KmdjcFK1SKOCCfcWMpnKb6d3GHvVytbzb4vdTrTpQCO_L_N3ARJnRNT602ZNjeHMVt06iTfk-rKRl7u4/s512/3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="512" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuj3vAXuJXrnCR_fQvDtPFtQR1UnI2g6B6xYrEiO7iBLltheLrcsBTGK-44Cz83GOmyf6rgjxYg016MwpuWxBjFj3TSUoqoBbm-hUP_OrV2Vn9KmdjcFK1SKOCCfcWMpnKb6d3GHvVytbzb4vdTrTpQCO_L_N3ARJnRNT602ZNjeHMVt06iTfk-rKRl7u4/s320/3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: georgia; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span><span style="font-family: times;">It's been a slow start here at <b>NNWNF</b> in 2024, in many ways it mirrors how slow the industry is this time of year. That doesn't mean that releases aren't coming out thick and fast, but often that the malaise is difficult to get out of. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: times;">I feel like we should be hibernating or something, not trying to fight the elements but actively avoiding them. So like a bear after a long sleep, it's time to get motivated and start work. One release that certainly has raised our collective eyebrows here is from Bridlington antagonists <b>Feral Family</b> and we got <b>Niamh Rowley </b>to tell us more.</span></span></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> ----------------------------------------</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">As we closed the door on 2023 and
waltzed on into 2024, we allowed ourselves a fresh start. Maybe a new year’s
resolution is in order. Perhaps it's the gym or a new hobby, Veganuary or maybe even Dry
January? Okay, that one's a little laughable. Does anyone complete that? You
have my full respect if so. But of course, a new year doesn't just stop <a name="_Int_6jkBErUN">a</a>t the resolutions we inevitably give up on, we get
new music, breakthrough artists and incredible new content.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Northern post-punks <b>Feral
Family</b> are back with one last release ahead of their eagerly anticipated album <i>Without
Motion</i> on January 19<sup>th</sup>. New single <i><b>‘Sold’</b></i> dropped
on January 12<sup>th</sup> and what an explosion it made. Hooking me in with an
earworm beat I felt myself falling into a spiral of guitars, drums and blissful
ignorance to the world around me; I was transported. Providing a dark
vocal style, singer <b>Jamie Lowe's </b>tone resembles that of<b> Joy Division’s</b> <b>Ian Curtis</b> whilst giving a melody
that increases in anger and intent, like that of <b>Fontaines D.C's Grian Chatten. </b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwq5RLA_ijkkTnc9ck1l71P2e5YCi0A80K35QvCHp1uF7qBtL9-9dav7hHoz9b4h0xr8FsDP_kx5NyPwAzEutfufxXkU0yM6RHMZqVaJxSUJqPAmReYbuqBgIFFVvt_n_fcS3sVf12MDNTYj1iBiFmurRRrLypNcBvjh2H_VnnFDo7EmLqGfDpEb1MZSG/s1440/H55_lhy_.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwq5RLA_ijkkTnc9ck1l71P2e5YCi0A80K35QvCHp1uF7qBtL9-9dav7hHoz9b4h0xr8FsDP_kx5NyPwAzEutfufxXkU0yM6RHMZqVaJxSUJqPAmReYbuqBgIFFVvt_n_fcS3sVf12MDNTYj1iBiFmurRRrLypNcBvjh2H_VnnFDo7EmLqGfDpEb1MZSG/s320/H55_lhy_.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">With these
two together they’re on to a winning combination, still adding in their own
individual flare it’s no doubt they have the tools to be a breakout band of 2024. On the tracks, the lads express their admiration for the working
class and how </span><i style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">‘working to live becomes living to work</i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">’, something the
generation of today know all too well. There’s something rather admirable
about being able to say what so many cannot find the words too and these lads
have managed to do exactly that.</span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Being the 6<sup>th</sup> track of 11
to be released ahead of the whole album, I started becoming quite fond of the
Bridlington Locals. Listening to previous tracks I notice a similar storyline
and melodic approach however; each song brings something new and unique to the
table. For example, <i><b>‘Cairo’ </b></i>brings us a pent-up style of lyrics with a loud
melodic counterpart. It’s unignorable and hard hitting which can only work in
their favour. Another track I found myself engaging quite intensely with was
‘<i><b>Deep Cuts'</b></i>. With an indie/rock style of beat it felt quite homely to me. Carrying
on with that deep vocal style and a strong instrumental presence from the
get-go, it’s a sure-fire crowd pleaser. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">About the themes that course through the album, <b>Lowe </b>says:</span></p><div class="yiv1886667515" style="outline: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“</span><i style="font-family: georgia;">The album showcases what it’s like living day to day in our shoes, with some wilder exceptions of certain themes being imagined, while simultaneously being understood by us. Each track weaves a narrative that collectively paints a vivid picture of life’s struggles and introspective moments. “WITHOUT MOTION” is like a guide through life experiences from our eyes from later teens to early adulthood."</i></div><div class="yiv1886667515" style="outline: none; text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></i></div><div class="yiv1886667515" style="outline: none; text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: georgia;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1383277796/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/track=1341272928/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 470px; width: 350px;"><a href="https://feralfamily.bandcamp.com/album/without-motion">Without Motion by Feral Family</a></iframe></i></div><div class="yiv1886667515" style="outline: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">Hailing from Yorkshire myself I can’t
help but feel a sense of pride at the success the band should go on to if there is any justice. So, if you’re in need of some new music to start the year give
the single a listen and follow it up with the album whilst you’re there!</span></span></div><div class="yiv1886667515" style="outline: none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="yiv1886667515" style="outline: none; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">You can follow <b>Feral Family </b>on social media at <a href="https://twitter.com/FERALFAMILYUK">X</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/feralfamilyuk/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FERALFAMILYUK">Facebook</a>. Debut album <i>Without Motion </i>is out to buy and stream now. </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-74106347562469339152023-12-20T04:38:00.000-08:002024-03-22T14:05:59.217-07:00NoNewWaveNoFun Top 100 Tracks of 2023: 20-1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So here it is, Merry Christmas! Everybody's having fun (Apart from those working in the retail and service sectors). I thought I might as well try and join in with the season of goodwill and embrace what little human warmth there seems to be left in the world - so here is my final ill-thought-out gift of the year to you*. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">*Unlike stockists of an unwanted Air Fryer, we don't take returns.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the most calculated and protracted countdown of 100 of the best things of a thing committed to a blog, this one takes the mince pies. We're finally down to our top 20 tracks of the year. So take a read of why we chose them, have a listen to each track and and then you can go and crack open a beer with a Chocolate Orange and forget that this sorry rigamarole ever began. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Merry Christmas everyone!**</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">**Apart from the panel that docked Everton Football Club 10 points. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They can do one. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">---------------------------------------</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">20) Wombo - Slab</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Hailing from Louisville in Kentucky, Indie Rock trio <b>Wombo</b> served up one of the finer EPs of the year with <i>Slab</i> and it's the title track that stands out. Released by the ever-reliable <b>Fire Talk Records, </b>the track creates a blend between a compelling groove, choppy guitars, and a nonchalantly delivered vocal.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><i><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GZLwYvqbX2g" width="320" youtube-src-id="GZLwYvqbX2g"></iframe></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><b>19) William The Conqueror - Somebody Else</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: times;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">The lead single from their <i>Excuse Me While I Vanish </i>album<i>, '</i><b style="font-style: italic;">Somebody Else' </b>saw </span><b style="font-family: times;">William The Conqueror </b><span style="font-family: times;">come of age with maturity. The track is as uplifting as it is doused in melancholy and sees them wade into waters previously reserved for <b>The National</b> with consummate ease.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><b><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1441301548/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=2282352750/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://williamtheconquerormusic.bandcamp.com/album/excuse-me-while-i-vanish">Excuse Me While I Vanish by William The Conqueror</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><b>18) Sparks - The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;">Legends sometimes find it hard to do anything vaguely creative when they release new material; it's not easy to get out of a creative rut when there's a financial legacy to seal as well. Thankfully, <b>Sparks </b>are no such band. The title track from their <i>The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte </i>album crackles with more inventive zest than many bands young enough to be their Grandchildren could achieve. Accompanied by a brilliant, smile-inducing video with <b>Cate Blanchett's</b> improvised dancing et al, it's one of their best in years.</span></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UTAxPhxADo0" width="320" youtube-src-id="UTAxPhxADo0"></iframe></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div>17) Joanna Sternberg - People Are Toys To You</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><i>I've Got Me - </i>the debut album from New York's idiosyncratic folk songwriter <b>Joanna Sternberg - </b>took as much inspiration from the classic songs written in the Brill Building as it does from contemporaries. <i style="font-weight: bold;">'People Are Toys To You'</i> is a fine example where the two worlds collide; the classic wry pop of <b>Carole King </b>being played around with by <b>Joanna Newsome's </b>whimsical eccentricities. A top drawer song by a top-drawer talent. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2140549418/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=4133569005/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://joannasternberg.bandcamp.com/album/ive-got-me">I've Got Me by Joanna Sternberg</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">16) Young Fathers - Geronimo</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Although technically released in 2022 as a single, '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Geronimo' </i>by <b>Young Fathers </b>was a track on their 2023 album <i>Heavy Heavy, </i>so counts by default. I make the rules here remember? In all seriousness, I could have picked any of the tracks from that inventive, forward-thinking album, but it's this track - that reflects on the complexities and contrasts of life with classic Trip Hop sentiments - that hits hardest and hasn't waned since I first heard it.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/1miJ79Xlen9j3MjSl0dzZh" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">15) Retropxssy - Speeding</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">A new artist to many, North London's <b>Retropxssy </b>released her <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Speeding' </i>single in the summer; and what a single it is! Clocking in at way under 2 minutes it's the shortest track on the countdown, but not one second is wasted on this finely crafted banger. You just can't help but be swept away by its <b>Timbaland</b>-inspired production that should have turned many more heads than it did. Expect to see much more of her genre-defying antics in 2024. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3VxI8ZZXjnw" width="320" youtube-src-id="3VxI8ZZXjnw"></iframe></div></span><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div>14) Two-Man Giant Squid - Progress</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Those of you joining us for the first time will be unaware of how <b>NNWNF </b>has forged links with the Brooklyn underground this year; more on that later. <b>Two-Man Giant Squid </b>produced one of that scene's most thrilling albums in the shape of <i>Intro To Basement (</i>read our review<i> <a href="https://www.nonewwavenofun.co.uk/2023/08/album-review-two-man-giant-squid-intro.html">HERE</a>)</i> One of the undoubted standout tracks is <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Progress', </i>an electrifying single that builds with impressive intensity and climaxes with gusto. Sure to be a moshpit favorite at any future gigs the band has planned.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2290555125/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=3291335022/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://twomangiantsquid.bandcamp.com/album/intro-to-basement">Intro to Basement by Two-Man Giant Squid</a></iframe></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">13) Slaney Bay - EST</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">It's the bands that get better and better, slowly and deliberately that have the most pull to me and <b>Slaney Bay </b>seem to have that knack down. The band has been slowly improving their repertoire since their early days amid the pandemic. <i style="font-weight: bold;">'EST' </i>is a single from their <i>Why Does Love Mean Loss? E.P.</i> expands their sonic palette further than they'd managed previously without swamping the songwriting and threatening to overwhelm it. A difficult trick to pull off and one that in lesser hands would fail to be so wonderfully cohesive.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hpEqhuG85Qw" width="320" youtube-src-id="hpEqhuG85Qw"></iframe></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div>12) Ren - Money Game Part 3</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Welsh Rapper/Producer/Musician/Beatboxer - and just about anything else he turns his hat to - <b>Ren Gill, </b>has had a hell of a year. His talent had bubbled under the surface for several years, but misdiagnosed Lime Disease and subsequent Psychosis meant fighting for his life more than fighting for his career. His second album <i>Sick Boi </i>managed<i> </i>to combine themes of personal salvation, universal truths, and blueprints for a better humanity. In the latter camp, <i>'</i><b style="font-style: italic;">Money Game Part 3' </b>laid bare the excesses of the Post Capitalist world with wit, drama, tension, and storytelling that is fiercely intelligent, yet ultimately relatable. The video has to be experienced in full. Staggering stuff.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nyWbun_PbTc?si=4GJu9U6prYygGplS" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">11) Human Interest - All My Friends</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Returning with an E.P of exponential growth was East London's <b>Human Interest, </b>a collection of tracks that reveled in togetherness despite the existential nature of its name: <i>Empathy Lives in Outer Space </i>(review<i> </i><a href="https://www.nonewwavenofun.co.uk/2023/11/ep-review-human-interest-empathy-lives.html" style="font-style: italic;">HERE</a><i>) </i><b style="font-style: italic;">'All My Friends' </b>sticks out as the track that hangs the whole E.P together. It's a Ballard to the lonely, depressed, downtrodden; a plea to come together and find solace in each other, however difficult that may be. It's a message that is sung beautifully in unison with just the right air of melancholic, country-tinged guitars. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P2PMtnil4mw" width="320" youtube-src-id="P2PMtnil4mw"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div>10) Sufjan Stevens - Shit Talk</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">One of the finest songwriters of the last 20 years rarely does much wrong, so when <b>Sufjan Stevens </b>returned with his tenth studio album <i>Javelin</i>, it was almost inevitable the songs would be amongst the finest I'd hear this year. What I didn't expect was for him to produce an album just as rich and full of inventive twists and turns as any in his history. The sprawling 8-minute epic '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Shit Talk' </i><span>epitomises</span> that with increasingly complex, but beautiful arrangements of brass and woodwind illuminating a delicate tale of emotional upheaval.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/6t8aRTXXIcx9JVRD8IRZKR" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">9) dust - Alternator</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Aussies Dust<b> was </b>a band I came across from this year's <b>Focus Wales </b>showcase festival in sunny Wrexham (Read our review <a href="https://www.nonewwavenofun.co.uk/2023/05/live-review-focus-wales-international.html">HERE</a>). A pulsating blend of post-hardcore rage, post-punk rhythms, and dark jazz discordance is not always an easy listen, but when they get it right on debut album <i>et Cetera, etc, </i>the rewards are tangible. The track with the hardest punch is the blistering <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Alternator' </i>that flies out of the blocks on the b of the bang. It's an exhilarating, powerful track that doesn't let go until you're fully in its control.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1523919721/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=1217459144/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://dustdustdust.bandcamp.com/album/et-cetera-etc">et cetera, etc by dust</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">8) Shelf Lives - Off The Rails</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Anglo-Canadian Electro Punks <b>Shelf Lives </b>must have been one of the hardest-working acts on our list this year. Countless tours, festivals, and promos all lead to the late-year release of E.P. <i>You Okay? (review <a href="https://www.nonewwavenofun.co.uk/2023/10/ep-review-shelf-lives-you-okay.html">HERE</a>) - </i>a collection that drips with anger, sarcasm, and frustration but makes you want to dance with reckless abandon. This is an effortlessly cool track and Johnny's repeated intro of "<i>no fuckin' way man" </i>rings around in your head for several minutes after it finishes. Sabrina's vocals are incendiary and she positively yelps out over the frantic and menacing guitar. Pure brilliance. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 400;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_oF6Dof3akc" width="320" youtube-src-id="_oF6Dof3akc"></iframe></div></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div>7) Kara Jackson - dickhead blues</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">One of the finer debut albums of the year was from Chicago's former Youth Poet Laureate <b>Kara Jackson; </b>a work that combined her intricate use of carefully constructed wordplay with sparse acoustic guitars and otherworldly soundscapes. The superb '<i style="font-weight: bold;">dickhead blues' </i><span>encapsulated</span> this, with lyrics that cut to the chase about the dawning realization that someone is not as they seem. That sense is combined with a recognition that <b>Jackson </b>herself has become "<i>..pretty top-notch" </i>and deserves much better. The shift from anger at others to self-affirmation plays out with a dreamy arrangement that is designed to cushion and not smother. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/0MjjrdCKDu19Z1obkdkULO" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">6) Protomartyr - Polacrilex Kid</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="times" size="4">I'm running out of superlatives for Detroit natives <b>Protomartyr. </b>I rarely write about them now, because I feel like it's just too much in the way of fanboying. I'm not shy about such things, but there has to be an end somewhere right? Well, that somewhere isn't here and now. A highlight of yet another album crammed full of them - 2023's <i>Formal Growth in the Desert -</i> <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Polacrilex Kid' </i>ponders life big questions under the specter of trying to give up smoking; <b>Polacrilex </b>being the generic name for nicotine chewing gum often used as an aid for giving up. With delivery dryer than the Desert that gives the album its name, singer/lyricist <b>Joe Casey </b>is never far from giving in to his demons as he bounces between love and hate over chiming guitars and a driving rhythm section. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gz2G5fymqTM" width="320" youtube-src-id="Gz2G5fymqTM"></iframe></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div>5) Mary Shelley - She's A Star</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">You may have heard me wax lyrical about Brooklyn's <b>Mary Shelley </b>before. After seeing them four times at <b>Focus Wales and </b>subsequently interviewing them for our first podcast (<a href="https://www.nonewwavenofun.co.uk/2023/07/podcast-partisan-contingent-episode-1.html">Listen HERE</a>), if felt like they'd completely take over the blog entirely at one point. Summer single '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Goin' To The Beach' </i>was also in our countdown at 21, but it was the new single '<i style="font-weight: bold;">She's a Star' </i>that gatecrashed into our top 5. An unorthodox tale of unrequited love, it's a single that sees the band at their most direct with soaring vocals, excellent melodies, and a radio-friendly sheen that takes them to a new level. With an E.P. due in 2024, there's plenty more to come from this exciting act. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/5XN1rIFAEXLi1bPxafjNop" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">4) Fever Ray - New Utensils</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">One-half of Electro Pop legends <b>The Knife, Karin Dreijer </b>went on to form the larger-than-life <b>Fever Ray. </b>The release of the third album <i>Radical Romantics</i> was a typically brash affair and their impressively theatric performance at Glastonbury saw their stock rise even further. '<i style="font-weight: bold;">New Utensils' </i>sounds like it's been beamed down from another realm entirely; melodies dance and intertwine with each other with such insistent vigor that it's difficult to keep track at first. The complex interplay is glorious though and <b>Dreijer's</b> sometimes euphoric, sometimes sinister vocal inflections work perfectly. Not an easy listen, but certainly one to be persisted with. Dance music with deep intelligence and soul. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q4xRJrUbgD8" width="320" youtube-src-id="q4xRJrUbgD8"></iframe></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div>3) Benefits - Warhorse</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">There's been a storm raging in Teeside for several years and in 2023, we finally felt the full brunt of what it had to offer. <b>Benefits </b>released their debut album <i>Nails; </i>a blistering noise and electro record that drew the battle lines clearly in the sand of the Post Brexit wasteland<i> </i>we now inhabit. The standout track was the single <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Warhorse', </i>built on foundations of military drums and electronic stabs that are designed to be right in your face. Frontman <b>Kingsley Hall </b>is<b> </b>spitting feathers at the privileged elite and their sycophants on this track as he implores "<i>Do not beg, Do not bow, Do not curtsy". </i>Do however, find yourself inspired. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1421986740/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://benefitstheband.bandcamp.com/album/warhorse">Warhorse by Benefits</a></iframe></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2) Ren - Seven Sins</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="times" size="4">A second entry in the top 20 for an undoubted contender for album of the year. <b>Ren's</b> <i>Sick Boi</i> saw the rapper explore the inner depths of his psyche after years of suffering from Lime Disease and Psychosis. The track that laid it bare the most was the incredible '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Seven Sins', </i><span>which</span> vividly described the pain and hallucinations that <b>Ren</b> experienced at his lowest points. The result is an extraordinary mish-mash of genres that showcases his impeccable wordplay, delivery, production skills, and aura. A true star has finally exploded into life in 2023 and - health permitting - <b>Ren </b>is far from done yet.</font><font face="helvetica" size="4"> </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="helvetica" size="4"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=3607410424/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=592211874/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://rengill.bandcamp.com/album/sick-boi-deluxe-digital-download">SICK BOI DELUXE DIGITAL DOWNLOAD by Ren Gill</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1) English Teacher - The World's Biggest Paving Slab</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">So here we are, our Top Track of 2023. It should be practically impossible to narrow this down and choose the one that had the biggest impact continually since its release and in many ways, it was. However, the choice this year was destined to come from one of this year's standout bands. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Leeds' <b>English Teacher </b>have been a band on many lips this year and like many buzz bands, they're sometimes talked about in such glowing terms that it's difficult to know where the hype ends and the truth begins. I'll be honest, they took a while to click with me. But when they did, I almost instantly felt like a fool. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">I am a fool, but let's not get into that.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YNkbgumvYyA" width="320" youtube-src-id="YNkbgumvYyA"></iframe></div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span>Our track of the year is </span></span><span style="font-family: times;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">'The World's Biggest Paving Slab'</i><span>, a single so good that I still get the same rush of excitement I did when I first heard it. It's a song that incorporates almost everything that is great about the UK alternative music scene in 2023; </span><b>Lily Fontaine's </b><span>fiercely intelligent barbed lyricism, her vocals that sometimes become spoken word, soaring chorus' that positively levitate above the rest of the song, and a band that intuitively have the magic 'it' factor - whatever that may be. There's a disregard for the rule book here too: this isn't Post Punk it's got too much soul and this isn't Dream Pop it's too jagged, yet it manages to breath new life in to both tired genres. <b><i>'The World's Biggest Paving Slab' </i></b></span></span><span style="font-family: times;"><span>is almost the perfect Indie Rock record and I offer no apologies for saying so.</span><span> </span></span></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">----------------------------------------</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Listen to the full 100 tracks in order or dip in at your leisure with this handily curated playlist.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/6kVPeBMKEqGbcvNHZ8V5Ep" width="100%"></iframe> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><b><br /></b></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-12111821340311235502023-12-17T11:01:00.000-08:002023-12-18T12:50:39.933-08:00NoNewWaveNoFun Top 100 Tracks of 2023: 40-21<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Part 4 of that thing we've been doing with some really good songs from 2023 - the penultimate rundown of the year. My brain is not working very well due to being man-flued up to high hell, so I'm not going to type much more other than to say these are nearly the best songs we heard all year. Let me know yours in the comments section below. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">----------------------------------------</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>40) The Reds, Pinks and Purples - Life in the Void</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-QuFGygqkDs" width="320" youtube-src-id="-QuFGygqkDs"></iframe></div></span><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div>39) Treeboy & Arc - Virtual Reality Check</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=3505165267/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=2202612722/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://treeboyandarc.bandcamp.com/album/natural-habitat-2">Natural Habitat by Treeboy & Arc</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">38) Shelf Lives - All The Problems</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/track=25812346/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://shelflives.bandcamp.com/track/all-the-problems">All The Problems by Shelf Lives</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">37) Kool Keith, Real Bad Man - Off The Glass</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/2lfdv6tZR8U8vwM0yBGuuc" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">36) Human Interest - So Smart</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=174666179/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=1448763317/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://humaninterest.bandcamp.com/album/empathy-lives-in-outer-space">Empathy Lives In Outer Space by Human Interest</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">35) Junior Brother - The Men Who Eat Ringforts</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3J_TTYPM8rA" width="320" youtube-src-id="3J_TTYPM8rA"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>34) Torture and the Desert Spiders - Flirting With Jeremy (Live)</b></div></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/1lmGZddWbJaOyksU52y0EV" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">33) Vice Killer - Where Can I Find Some Peace?</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S6ypwIMcInk" width="320" youtube-src-id="S6ypwIMcInk"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div>32) Nas - Fever</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hCK7_CfH69A" width="320" youtube-src-id="hCK7_CfH69A"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div>31) bar italia - punkt</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=3372220128/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=4169598910/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://baritalia.bandcamp.com/album/tracey-denim">Tracey Denim by bar italia</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">30) English Teacher - Mastermind Specialism</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/39rcWMXqxrhrin9uTHiBrG" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">29) VENUS GRRRLS - Lidocaine</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zdiEUc2DlHk" width="320" youtube-src-id="zdiEUc2DlHk"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div>28) The Mountain Goats - Clean Slate</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=308221209/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=4289087511/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://themountaingoats.bandcamp.com/album/jenny-from-thebes">Jenny from Thebes by the Mountain Goats</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">27) two blinks, i love you - loveseat</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2507749901/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=2688424130/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://twoblinksiloveyou.bandcamp.com/album/ep-1">ep 1 by two blinks, i love you</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">26) Caroline Polachek - Billions</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4zEQJrggKgk" width="320" youtube-src-id="4zEQJrggKgk"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div>25) Sage Todz - Casting Dice</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/3C76FlzP8bdJlbLkQLiGQS" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">24) Problem Patterns - Letter of Resignation</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6sTb6c8_rd0" width="320" youtube-src-id="6sTb6c8_rd0"></iframe></div><br /><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">23) The Last Dinner Party - My Lady of Mercy</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mV76WmC5I4s" width="320" youtube-src-id="mV76WmC5I4s"></iframe></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div>22) The Family Battenberg - Runny Hunny<iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/track=2812917811/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://thefamilybattenberg.bandcamp.com/track/runny-hunny">Runny Hunny by The Family Battenberg</a></iframe></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">21) Mary Shelley - Goin' To The Beach</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jVoF-EAOvEY" width="320" youtube-src-id="jVoF-EAOvEY"></iframe></div><br /><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-39007838358854567022023-12-13T03:51:00.000-08:002023-12-16T04:27:55.446-08:00NoNewWaveNoFun Top 100 Tracks of 2023: 60-41<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigyo1PWifbBGwLZF6_U29gwMdRh89-U1_RTrFeTnsUfSUip4ehFRikhdxkuF-47jMeAJwl9CA_fdSo6Ss8cBPd_I7YsU4y4u1vqayPM_lK4aFqKjmok1CAya36vsICism19J6pluaRVzox5rVsqM829ru3NDcKZiUuJd-VEb8eEmfdqyPojJw-iqGKwEnI" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigyo1PWifbBGwLZF6_U29gwMdRh89-U1_RTrFeTnsUfSUip4ehFRikhdxkuF-47jMeAJwl9CA_fdSo6Ss8cBPd_I7YsU4y4u1vqayPM_lK4aFqKjmok1CAya36vsICism19J6pluaRVzox5rVsqM829ru3NDcKZiUuJd-VEb8eEmfdqyPojJw-iqGKwEnI" width="400">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As 2024 comes hurtling into view like some less exciting version of a car chase in some dodgy <b>Jason Statham </b>movie nobody asked for, we venture into the third part of our countdown of our Top 100 Tracks of 2023. This time round we get into the top half of the countdown with some of the best bands and artists that the year had to offer. We have some exquisite songs ranging from Soaring Post Punk, Exhilarating Indie Rock, Eccentric Folk Rock, Biting Electro and hard-hitting Hip Hop. All of them set pulses racing here at <b>NNWNF</b> HQ and some of them produced other visible signs of excitement. I don't mean that. Anyway, take a listen and let us know your favourites at the comments section below. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">------------------------------------------</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">60) Divorce - Sex and the Millenium Bridge</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=505480139/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=3647232956/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://divorcehq.bandcamp.com/album/heady-metal">Heady Metal by Divorce</a></iframe></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">59) NF - Motto</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0YKOxtOb44c" width="320" youtube-src-id="0YKOxtOb44c"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>58) Joanna Sternberg - Stockholm Syndrome</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2140549418/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=1202132226/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://joannasternberg.bandcamp.com/album/ive-got-me">I've Got Me by Joanna Sternberg</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">57) Orbital feat. Sleaford Mods - Dirty Rat</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4FM7XeaSO0M" width="320" youtube-src-id="4FM7XeaSO0M"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>56) Kara Jackson - therapy</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1829566835/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=4222757675/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://karajackson.bandcamp.com/album/why-does-the-earth-give-us-people-to-love">Why Does The Earth Give Us People To Love? by Kara Jackson</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">55) Chalk - Conditions</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2009387851/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=3155415468/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://chalkbelfast.bandcamp.com/album/conditions-ep">Conditions EP by Chalk</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">54) Crow Baby - All Better</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hKJYNEeJjHI" width="320" youtube-src-id="hKJYNEeJjHI"></iframe></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div>53) The Family Battenberg - Rocket Dustbin</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3t3H3hknTtk" width="320" youtube-src-id="3t3H3hknTtk"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>52) PJ Harvey - Lwonesome Tonight</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1255314163/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=931205196/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://pjharvey.bandcamp.com/album/i-inside-the-old-year-dying">I Inside the Old Year Dying by PJ Harvey</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">51) En Attendant Ana - Ada, Mary, Diane</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2883187254/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=2443351724/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://enattendantana.bandcamp.com/album/principia">Principia by En Attendant Ana</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">50) The Bug Club - We Can't All Play Saxophones</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oyj3oiZr8kw" width="320" youtube-src-id="oyj3oiZr8kw"></iframe></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">49) Goat - I Became The Unemployment Office </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t0JDqQoHxo0" width="320" youtube-src-id="t0JDqQoHxo0"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>48) Yo La Tengo - Sinatra Drive Breakdown</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/98PW8t04l6U" width="320" youtube-src-id="98PW8t04l6U"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>47) dust - Joy (Guilt)</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1523919721/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=1334207570/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://dustdustdust.bandcamp.com/album/et-cetera-etc">et cetera, etc by dust</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">46) Mandy, Indiana - Pinking Shears</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V8I7JGpeI-E" width="320" youtube-src-id="V8I7JGpeI-E"></iframe></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div>45) Lord Apex - Blessings</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FIHGB5brkbs?si=ZKtVcR8-ylBlmpS8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">44) Two-Man Giant Squid - No End In Sight</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2290555125/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=1891794299/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://twomangiantsquid.bandcamp.com/album/intro-to-basement">Intro to Basement by Two-Man Giant Squid</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">43) Slow Pulp - Cramps</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=384588619/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://slowpulp.bandcamp.com/album/cramps">Cramps by Slow Pulp</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">42) Yard Act - The Trench Coat Museum</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7P0YpeMPZ9g" width="320" youtube-src-id="7P0YpeMPZ9g"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>41) Protomartyr - Elimination Dances</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6Uf98p7Dsdk" width="320" youtube-src-id="6Uf98p7Dsdk"></iframe></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-51885370434581494182023-12-08T05:36:00.000-08:002023-12-14T12:24:46.433-08:00NoNewWaveNoFun Top 100 Tracks of 2023: 80-61<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Time to unveil part 2 of our top 100 tracks of 2023 with tracks 80-61 in our countdown. It's been a year of musical treasures, some that have soared in the consciousness of many and some that have fallen between the cracks of the cultural abyss. No doubt, the competition to be heard and find your tribe in the age of the internet can be akin to whispering for help in the Grand Canyon, but send the search party out and you'll find some pretty inspiring whispers. Here are 20 more to get to grips with. Comment below with some of your favourites of the year. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-----------------------------------------------------------</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>80) Harpans Kraft - Teflon Tez</b><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/track=2143326257/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://harpanskraft.bandcamp.com/track/teflon-tez">Teflon Tez by Harpans Kraft</a></iframe></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">79) Conway The Machine- Brick Fare</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p7yC7BU1zrw" width="320" youtube-src-id="p7yC7BU1zrw"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>78) The Accident Group - The Myth of Sisyphus</b></div></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7Yz1iKOV5E0" width="320" youtube-src-id="7Yz1iKOV5E0"></iframe></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>77) Lynks - (What Did You Expect From) Sex With A Stranger</b></div></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/track=2143692933/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://lynkslynkslynks.bandcamp.com/track/what-did-you-expect-from-sex-with-a-stranger">'(WHAT DID YOU EXPECT FROM) SEX WITH A STRANGER' by Lynks</a></iframe></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">76) Eyesore & The Jinx - No More Nails</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/track=1659963601/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://eyesoreandthejinx.bandcamp.com/track/no-more-nails">No More Nails by Eyesore & The Jinx</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">75) O. - Slice</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X6xJ2FEMiRU" width="320" youtube-src-id="X6xJ2FEMiRU"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">74) Danny Brown - Quaranta</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1852726588/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=2422977274/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://dannybrown.bandcamp.com/album/quaranta">Quaranta by Danny Brown</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">73) Sprints - Up and Comer</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RAVgqbsw5NE" width="320" youtube-src-id="RAVgqbsw5NE"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">72) Cross Wires - Camel Blues</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=80242461/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=2281099441/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://crosswires.bandcamp.com/album/yesterday-in-mourning">Yesterday In Mourning by Cross Wires</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">71) Ducks Ltd - Hollowed Out</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/i9d_f4ieFeM" width="320" youtube-src-id="i9d_f4ieFeM"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">70) Tonguetied - Selfish Girl</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uy2loytTtyI" width="320" youtube-src-id="uy2loytTtyI"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">69) Mace the Great ft. Sage Todz - Welcome To Wales</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RIpmTegAEgA" width="320" youtube-src-id="RIpmTegAEgA"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">68) Torture and the Desert Spiders - Kill Yr Modern Soul (live)</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/1ImiiHghOlnfASK5HTmJ10" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">67) Wombo - In Situ</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2642669943/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=2784427917/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://womborocks.bandcamp.com/album/slab-ep">Slab EP by Wombo</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">66) The Murder Capital - Return My Head</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6NQddPqfIpI" width="320" youtube-src-id="6NQddPqfIpI"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>65) cruush - Wishful Thinker</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=3531431265/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=1748872686/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://cruushband.bandcamp.com/album/wishful-thinker">Wishful Thinker by cruush</a></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">64) Xp The Marxman - The Bird Watchers</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/5voTRFd6mWafkeZamPi0xU" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">63) Pip Blom/Personal Trainer - Kiss Me By The Candlelight</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LTVu-PszJxk" width="320" youtube-src-id="LTVu-PszJxk"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>62) Nxdia - idc</b></div></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sAxbC6Yfp4Q" width="320" youtube-src-id="sAxbC6Yfp4Q"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">61) Militarie Gun - Do It Faster</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=3645162751/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://militariegun.bandcamp.com/album/do-it-faster">Do It Faster by Militarie Gun</a></iframe> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-13460778635898348922023-12-04T15:38:00.000-08:002023-12-14T12:24:32.520-08:00NoNewWaveNoFun Top 100 tracks of 2023: 100-81<p><span><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIlTTTOQ44RIxsMeBGfgvQ2jLBeQW_7so2AWrxLSvhDXY8aeEjccad1LC1tHmrgnq_mNR1ety-iGoIvmu8tr-BCckBVhbvS2dRoJlHzxktzTtD0I6-oKJUOal67By9QMNfbJdUc_ciCzwkaZZ-FslRVLbf7qxKocWc7FspIHXX-ZlByJr5KZ5I_sQjWbTJ/s1600/NNWNFTOP100TRACKS%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIlTTTOQ44RIxsMeBGfgvQ2jLBeQW_7so2AWrxLSvhDXY8aeEjccad1LC1tHmrgnq_mNR1ety-iGoIvmu8tr-BCckBVhbvS2dRoJlHzxktzTtD0I6-oKJUOal67By9QMNfbJdUc_ciCzwkaZZ-FslRVLbf7qxKocWc7FspIHXX-ZlByJr5KZ5I_sQjWbTJ/s320/NNWNFTOP100TRACKS%20(1).jpg" width="320"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span style="text-align: left;">It's that time of year again where the music industry takes it's time out to reflect on another year and bombard you with lists. Now, I'm not the ambitious type by any stretch; those who know me well will testify to that in the highest court in the land under threat of having to listen to '</span><i style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">Dancing In The Moonlight' </i><span style="text-align: left;">by </span><b style="text-align: left;">Toploader </b><span style="text-align: left;">whilst being waterboarded if found guilty. Probably. This year however has been awash with some absolutely stonking tracks, in fact, I would go so far to say it's been one of the best years in living memory.</span></span></div><p><span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"> As a result, I decided to add another list to the 17 you've already ignored of some of the years best tracks. I'm doing 100, but I could easily have done considerably more; like at least another 29 or something. So, without further ado, here is the first part of our countdown from 100 - 81; perhaps you'll know some, perhaps you'll discover some others and perhaps I'll finally go to bed this evening and stop rambling. Whatever the outcome, give them a listen and share your thoughts via the mediums of interpretive dance and telepathy. </span></span></p><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></p><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"> 100) Holm - Lose The Shoes</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ev7prdXAm_w" width="320" youtube-src-id="Ev7prdXAm_w"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large; text-align: left;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large; text-align: left;">99) Noah & The Loners - Protest Anger</b></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pjb5KiNLwzs" width="320" youtube-src-id="pjb5KiNLwzs"></iframe></div></span><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;">98) The Strangerz - Hit The Ground</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/1sjq9DsidRJve2Omi43QsO" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><b> 97) Sex Week - Toad Mode</b></b></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xeNa_W0qe3I" width="320" youtube-src-id="xeNa_W0qe3I"></iframe></div><b><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></div>96) The Wurmen - Cognitive Dissonance</b></span></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/2IVqs3qf0KyiI5FZZOMC0r" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">95) Rollen Polle - Scoreboard</b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br></b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/3NS1TC65rk5iN7dHtHgfNK" width="100%"></iframe></b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b><br></b></b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b>94) The Deep Blue - Something Good</b></b></div><div><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/7LvcBgKPvejle9PdWq63TT" width="100%"></iframe></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b> 93) Oslo Twins - Back To Nothing</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6r1AOVE4Zp8" width="320" youtube-src-id="6r1AOVE4Zp8"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br></span></div><p></p><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b style="text-align: left;">92) MEMORIALS - It's In Our Hands</b></b></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V6hqINBqq9M" width="320" youtube-src-id="V6hqINBqq9M"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br></span></div><p></p><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b style="text-align: left;">91) Dirty Nice - This Is Gonna Hurt</b></b></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U0cJ-mjp9GQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="U0cJ-mjp9GQ"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><p><b> </b><b> 90) Bella Wright - Ashtray</b></p><p><b><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/6YhlfZGzK80c5q7CIDdyDW" width="100%"></iframe></b></p><p><b> 89) LOBSTERBOMB - Dragonfly</b></p></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MpUQTQqTfc8" width="320" youtube-src-id="MpUQTQqTfc8"></iframe></div><br><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"> 88) Vala - Fishes</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dW_0R9-axFw" width="320" youtube-src-id="dW_0R9-axFw"></iframe></div><br><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"> 87) Cloudsurfers - The Curse</b></p><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/3CQ2enaVe1ucLcVnlnlM2Q" width="100%"></iframe></b></p><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b>86) The Goa Express - It's Never Been Better</b></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4kTmW3vsmEc" width="320" youtube-src-id="4kTmW3vsmEc"></iframe></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"> </b><p></p><p><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"> 85) Lonnie Holley - Mount Meigs</b></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6K6Y9LVkj1o" width="320" youtube-src-id="6K6Y9LVkj1o"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br></span><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b> 84) Spyres - The Thing</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/41ugiY9z17eniXjCkeFPCj" width="100%"></iframe></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"> 83) Beige Banquet - Animals</b></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cegaod0erQ0" width="320" youtube-src-id="cegaod0erQ0"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br></span></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><p><b>82) Bedroom High Club - Hard Talk</b></p></b><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FBXr0W1WC8c" width="320" youtube-src-id="FBXr0W1WC8c"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br></span><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b> 81) cowboyy - Plastic</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/3Vsjds8doe98CTPhVSlkpq" width="100%"></iframe></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><br></b></span></p><p><br></p></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-30256467321753743792023-12-03T12:13:00.000-08:002023-12-14T12:24:16.321-08:00New Single: Huw & The Greater Good - Dopamine<p> <img height="475" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/dzSCSPeNjhJoK_qW-LKG2gPlSOm6FhUidMiSk3mvaRXvbhXxPhvIrYN-4iHyd24Gxa0Bou85RnEIGfJUHEa95opaVS4pAq0aTYE5ZvLUPu3T54sjwfMWms3MjPTkxs3a6v1n_8VnD2VR" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;" width="430"> 📷 Jordan Shaw</p><p>Let's get this straight once and for all; December is not a great time for trying to find new music. It's almost as if a state of hibernataion engulfs the industry as the long hours of darkness take their toll and preparation for the festive season go into overdrive. It's also bloody freezing; -5 degrees, you havin' a laugh?! In such climates, moody Indie Rock bands take time to reflect and find inspiration, Singer Songwriters strum the same pattern as they look for that hoodie with the holes in to keep mildy warm and writers do that thing where they list all their favourites from the last 11 months ignoring the current. </p><p>As if these things needed anymore encouragement, <b>Spotify </b>brings out it's annual <b>Wrapped</b> spectacular, so we can see what we've been listening to all year and go back to listen to it all over again. Yep, you've got to be made of different stuff entirely to be releasing new material this time of year. However, if you're willing to go hunting you'll find some great tracks trying their luck in the barren landscape of December.</p><p>A band very much willing to brave this frosty terrain are <b>Huw & The Greater Good</b> and their new single '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Dopamine' </i>proves that their can be some vibrancy this time of year after all. The Indie-Pop risers have seen a wave of support in 2023, with <b>BBC Radio Wales, Radio X </b>and <b>XS Manchester</b> all sold on their buoyant sound. The band were formed in 2020 and brought together by a love of bands like <b>The War on Drugs, Arcade Fire </b>and <b>The Black Keys. </b>Fronted by the charasmatic, soulful tones of lead singer <b>Huw Eddy, </b>their live show has been lauded as a powerful and commanding experience that demands the audience throw away their inhibitions.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><p>The band write songs with the them of self discovery, learning from mistakes and adapting to an ever-changing world at their core and <i>'Dopamine' </i>continues those work within those themes. <br></p><p>The new single has been produced by <b>Jamie Lockhart (Greenmount Studies) </b>and showcases the band's ability to craft melodic hooks that lead you into their infectious world. The band don't mess about on '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Dopamine'; </i>the track builds with an understated verse before exploding into an undoubted earworm of a chorus with fuzzy guitars playing off the disco-tinged rhythm section to illuminating effect. It captures some of the elements of their influences perfectly whilst also leaning on a love of 70s' rock and soul.</p><p>The band looked to create an explosion of the senses on '<i>Dopamine' </i>saying:<br></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><blockquote>“We wanted to capture the full throttle and intoxicating sensory overload we all face in today’s world. Dopamine is about the addictive and obsessive tendencies we slip into and we wanted to paint that picture in a joyful but unnerving/anxiety fueled setting”</blockquote></blockquote><p>Take a listen to the single below: </p><blockquote><blockquote><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="352" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/4FHa1P1nlqs1nsHWiVI7EA?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe></blockquote></blockquote><p> You can follow and find out more about <b>Huw & The Greater Good</b> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/huwandthegreatergoodofficial/?locale=en_GB">Facebook</a>, <a href="Huw and the Greater Good (@huweddy) · X">X</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/huwandthegreatergood/">Instagram</a></p><p>Stream them on all good streaming service (and some of the bad ones), but look to buy direct from the band if you can at their website <a href="https://www.huwandthegreatergood.com/">huwandthegreatergood.com</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-22719616823454209692023-11-30T12:42:00.000-08:002023-12-01T11:53:33.808-08:00Let Em' Talk: Freyja Elsy guides us through her debut E.P 'Modern Artifice' <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnB-8lU_zwK_BHgk3oROiSvoUmhgjzvcONTDIKXnFjD8Gzm3OJMdsAroE1q3Tjz9aXy_I_p2AXB8s-EjwnfHTmmAiz7fbAAyo-rXRL1lzT5jy5kSf8Ci8OaLSVETF1BprbXfC2QwUMAf60Pcit4OyuPmTqfQ1nPxtHArm5tfgFBdt36PKdrU1cIUSpLZgU/s2500/ARTWORK%20Maria%20Tilt.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2500" data-original-width="2500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnB-8lU_zwK_BHgk3oROiSvoUmhgjzvcONTDIKXnFjD8Gzm3OJMdsAroE1q3Tjz9aXy_I_p2AXB8s-EjwnfHTmmAiz7fbAAyo-rXRL1lzT5jy5kSf8Ci8OaLSVETF1BprbXfC2QwUMAf60Pcit4OyuPmTqfQ1nPxtHArm5tfgFBdt36PKdrU1cIUSpLZgU/s320/ARTWORK%20Maria%20Tilt.png" width="320"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Artwork by <b>Maria Tilt</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Classically trained electronic producer <b>Freyja Elsy </b>from Cardiff<b> </b>has been plowing her own furrow for several years. After releasing several independent singles in that time, she took the plunge in 2023 to start bringing her tracks to life in a live setting. Her debut E.P <i>Modern Artifice</i> was released in late November and shows an artist full of ideas and creative spark that builds on her earlier work with added depth and experimentation. <b>Freyja </b>took the time to talk us through <i>Modern Artifice </i>track-by-track.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">__________________________________________</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #26282a; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"><i><br></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: arial; font-size: medium; text-align: left;"><i>Modern Artifice</i> is my debut EP, self-produced mainly over the past year. It’s a collection of songs describing the bittersweet experience of stepping into a world not made for you. It battles with anger, generational trauma and resentment for centuries of oppression by a patriarchal, capitalist society. Yet the soul of the project is empowerment and determination, and these themes weave their way through the tracks. The decade of your twenties is a tricky, confusing time as it is, with countless barriers to peace, happiness and success - but it is also one for growth and attempting to figure out your place amongst it.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><u>1) Sad Girls</u></b></span><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; text-align: left;"><i><b>'Sad Girls'</b></i> is a track expressing the frustration and exhaustion around keeping up with impossible beauty standards for women and the commodification of being youthful. However it’s also a call of empowerment, shrugging off the pressure and embracing the inevitability of aging, with the true strength and beauty that it brings.</span><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; text-align: left;"><i>“Drag my hands, across the lines on my face, in my own time”</i>; <i>“imagine the mountains I’ll move when I find my own peace of mind”.</i></span></span><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"></span><h1><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><u>2) Over It</u></b></span></h1><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; text-align: left;">Undoubtedly the ‘bop’ of the EP, <b><i>‘Over It’ </i></b>gradually builds up from a trip-hop-esque unassuming beginning and steadily melts into a thick textural bass heavy atmosphere. This song describes the experience of diving headfirst into a capitalist world, one which was built only for a small few, and acts as a never-moving barrier to everyone else. It’s about the confusion of wanting to succeed and benefit from all options available to you in your career, but not wanting to contribute to a monotonous lack of work/life balance.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2500" data-original-width="2500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMg247En1FZa7uyLYcV8XxgXgMw4Zv3sf-gUpXdY1JPQ73qJSjK99o6McCUr-CAkkLLOljjqB7r8AW73FkBfgiflr5jWXcM-ROfsfMDCjaVPNiXd5WjtdrsqUPgNUeKzWXnn_2XFcgMgMzSpiuIGCsjMK1Sr4JJU_1f_85zOiq0jIRJhmCD54gKQoQ2Bpj/s320/Photo%20Ed%20Townend.jpg" width="320"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">📷 <b>Ed Townend</b></div><b style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: arial; outline: none; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: large; text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: arial; font-size: large; outline: none; text-align: left;"><br></b></div><u><span style="font-size: large;">3) Limerence</span></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; text-align: left;"><i><b>‘Limerence’</b></i> is the word given to describe the intense (sometimes toxic) infatuation you develop for a person at the very beginning of a relationship. Essentially that’s what this track is about, but it goes further into the depths of genuine fear and hesitation on opening up to a new person romantically, amidst past traumas and difficult life experiences that have shaped you into who you currently are.</span><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; text-align: left;"><i>“Lights guide my way to you, hands shaking as I cross the room, embers in your eyes, reflecting the ache of my heart - let flames break through, ‘cause I want to know you”</i></span><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; text-align: left;">It’s seen as a spiritual sequel to my first single <i><b>‘Lungs’ </b></i>which is about leaving a particularly toxic relationship and making the same mistakes over and over when entering into relationships.</span></span><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-size: large;">4) Salem</span></u></b><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><br clear="none" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; outline: none; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-size: medium; text-align: left;">This is the most haunting and delicately powerful of the tracks on this EP. It’s full of female rage and generational trauma and expresses a quiet, deep anger that most women can resonate with. <b><i>‘Salem’ </i></b>also describes the bitterness and resentment towards men who self-identify as feminists yet continue to knowingly benefit from the patriarchy. It’s an ode to the women who, throughout history and faced with disenfranchisement and brutal oppression have had to grasp at any means necessary - no matter how cold-blooded - to regain a sense of power and control.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/6GdgjG3BILKMIwnlEfMMD6" width="100%"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can follow and find out more about <b>Freyja Elsy </b>at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/freyjaelsy/?hl=en">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FreyjaElsyMusic/?locale=en_GB">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/freyjaelsy?lang=ca">X</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sure you can stream the track on <i>Modern Artifice </i>on all good streaming services, but to support the artist directly you can buy it from her <a href="https://freyjaelsy.bandcamp.com/">Bandcamp</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.freyjaelsy.co.uk/">FreyjaElsy.co.uk</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><br> <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-16781953375974961472023-11-21T07:45:00.000-08:002023-12-01T11:53:57.761-08:00EP Review: Human Interest - Empathy Lives In Outer Space<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhl9OodYDvEB0Rf3Gl0rM5rbezICCfJGyjExRGgWR4lziH5_ydxqV9m4A63_Hyq_ais3i1EhuqENmQ8x7orEZlWxpktTmWcPW8Y9YWw3o1EDW9HpVzOGTQnAXMf9Zl81n2xRVSNyXiOn-lqqsGBJpDG1SxfVz5tOqvfGWyx5GUCGZqrWK771x0PsG0HjLk3">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I sometimes wonder where we're going as a species. The divisions that we continue to be subjected to make it increasingly difficult to care more for our fellow man than we should do. Whether it be the Israel-Palestine conflict, the irresponsible use of language about immigrants by so-called leaders, or the continued polarisation of the social media model: the lack of empathy is rather unnerving. Don't get me wrong, I'm not about hugging everyone I meet, but I do think the hippies had some good ideas you know. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The problem is, of course, that we know - deep down - that these divisions are man-made to ensure we don't get along. It benefits far too many people if we're at each other throats. If you're busy blaming everyone else then you can't blame who's really to blame, can you? Divide and conquer; the oldest trick in the political playbook. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the world of journalism, the human interest story is one designed to engage attention or sympathy by allowing the reader/viewer to readily associate with what they see or read. It can be both intensely provocative or throw-away and frivolous, but someone is going to identify with it. The story of the East London band <b>Human Interest </b>will resonate with many. If you pay attention to this blog you might just remember they joined us on our second episode of <b>The Partisan Contingent - </b>entitled <i>Empathy and Pineapple Pizza</i><b> - </b>take a listen at Mixcloud link at the bottom of the page.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhx7ANHsvv7sXO4JgnaG3wZXFTWF1-JTqNnMbX1F6QM9XrRUN0lXzCHomrTNQmTXO97hFiWA628SPXCnea0itZnqnpZtJvBvGpuYi2HSbkEKAeYe_GrSxJaHNIxixAjaIFj2AInTuAJpxX3f-VPvnNjl2PO7oz4EbfO9Zk6kauYOE1g1BWvVvULfeHvtvbV" width="400"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">📷 Lola Stephen</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><b>Human Interest </b>were<b> </b>formed after songwriter <b>Cat Harrison </b>decided to move to London during the Pandemic to form a band after previously being in bands in Margate. He wanted a change of sound and scenery to inspire him and strip back the complexity of his writing. During the heights of the Lockdown, <b>Cat </b>joined a WhatsApp group for like-minded individuals of fetish culture and met bassist <b>Tyler Damara Kelly, </b>who had never been in a band but was quick to take the plunge after hearing the initial demos. Those demos turned into 2022's <i>Desire Paths</i> E.P. which gained the attention of tastemaker label <b>Nice Swan, </b>home to bands like <b>Sports Team, Pip Blom, </b>and <b>Sprints. </b></div><div><br></div><div>New E.P. <i>Empathy Lives In Outer Space </i>is the first since the band became a four-piece with <b>Tyler Evann </b>joining on guitar/backing vocals and <b>Joe Michelson</b> on drums. 2022's <i>Desire Paths </i>showed a band with promise, but the new E.P shows<i> </i>considerable progress from their debut release. Where that collection of songs had strong ideas but lacked the means to get the best out of them - they were in effect, the same aforementioned demos - this collection of songs is produced with a keen ear for detail and a desire to strike a balance between style and substance. </div><div><br></div><div>Lead single and opener '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Step On' </i>is the ideal example of the <b>Human Interest </b>blueprint at play; exemplifying <b>Harrison </b>and <b>Kelly's </b>chemistry that permeates the track. There's a coolness to the sound in the early stages that brings to mind the woozy sway of <b>The Jesus and Mary Chain. </b>The guitars sound brash, but have a slickness to them.<b> Harrison </b>takes the lead vocally and his raspy delivery is accentuated every other line by <b>Kelly's </b>sweeter tones. A theme of the temporary nature of thoughts and feelings emerges as the song unfolds, when the trajectory of the track shifts in the final moments and the key lyric of a more frantic conclusion is delievered passionately:</div><div><br></div><div><i> This philosophy goes away</i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5D6yfgl9YnM" width="320" youtube-src-id="5D6yfgl9YnM"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">'Slacker's Paradise' </i>has a more upbeat sound steeped in Rock n' Roll classicism. The drums postively rumble along early doors, thudding away excitedly in standard time; sure it's familiar but it doesn't make it any less thrilling. There's no doubt it takes it's hubris from the likes of <b>Black Rebel Motorcycle Club </b>and <b>Kasabian's </b><i style="font-weight: bold;">'Fire'</i> here; it has that same anthemic swagger but with less of the overconfident postering. The chorus turns the intensity up a notch with the lyrics a plea not to overthink too much and to live in the moment:</div><div><i><br></i></div><div><i>I'm gonna walk right through this life unphased,</i></div></div><div><i>too many things are unexplainable.</i></div><div><br>The focus of <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Mixing Paint' </i>is very much on <b>Kelly, </b>and her biggest stint of prolongued solo vocals on the E.P. bares fruit. The mix is minimal, it starts with just her singing accapella with a touch of reverb for company. The fragility of the moment is slowly allowed to be engulfed with <b>Harrison </b>joining as the instrumentation is constructed from the ground up, mostly just rhythm section playing off each other with consumate ease. The song ends with a flurry of cascading guitars that kick in with a climax that has an air of <b>Pixies </b>about it. </div><div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/in5pOk3RlB8" width="320" youtube-src-id="in5pOk3RlB8"></iframe></div><br><div>I sense a clue to where the band will be going next with their sound by the time '<i style="font-weight: bold;">So Smart' </i>ends. This track is the most disparate on the E.P, incorporating a slightly more expansive approach without straying too far from the refined structure. The longest track on the E.P at nearly 6 minutes, it's also the one that you can see becoming a firm favourite live. At first, a breezy guitar lick heralds it's arrival before a motorik krautrock beat kicks the song into life. <b>Harrison </b>has much more of a snarl in his vocals and it's clear the person he's singing about is not particularly in his good books:</div><div><br></div><div><i>Meet you in toilet for a cigarette</i></div><div><i>You cool boy, sure you do this all the time</i></div><div><i>Give you 20 seconds til' you're asking for a line.</i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div>But the annoyance changes quickly to empathetic encouragement for a peers' personal problems that might explain a few things. We've all been there:</div><div><br></div><div><i>I know that you're messed up in the head </i></div><div><i>things will get a little better with a little sex</i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div>The mood of the track lifts as it progresses with grugey guitar adding another frantic element to the mix. It's an exhilarating conclusion to a song that reaches further than they've attempted on the rest of <i>Empathy Lives In Outer Space.</i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div><i><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/3IYyN7vmSeA6nDNMBZWSZt" width="100%"></iframe></i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div>The softer side of the E.P is showcased by two of the more restrained songs on the E.P. <i style="font-weight: bold;">'All My Friends' </i>is a compassionate ballard that lives and breathes the reality of good friendship and how solidarity is just as important as shared experiences. The vocals have been deliberately layered at points to mimic a communal sing-song as a lonesome, country-tinged guitar riff laments the - often seemingly futile - nature of youth. </div><div><br></div><div>Closer '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Grounded' </i>is a ghostly tale of loss due of war and the trauma that inevitably engulfs as a result. It's a short and simple song, that relies almost entirely on the interplay between <b>Harrison </b>and <b>Kelly's </b>sublime vocals that really draw you into the story. This all plays out over a simple acoustic arrangement that plays with <b>The White Stripes </b><i style="font-weight: bold;">'We're Going To Be Friends' </i>and takes it in a much darker direction. </div><div><br></div><div>When settling on the name of the E.P, the band were drawn to footage of <b>Felix Baumgartner </b>and his world record freefall descent from the edge of space. The extraordinary spectacle was witnessed by millions on a livestream in 2012, yet felt like you were watching the most lonely experience a human could ever possibly feel. There's an existential sentiment that echoes throughout <i>Empathy Lives In Outer Space </i>and draws on how we often swing from the dark to the light. If we stick together and find solace in each other then it often gets easier; even on the most harshest of planets. </div><div><br></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" height="120" src="https://player-widget.mixcloud.com/widget/iframe/?hide_cover=1&light=1&feed=%2Fstephen-birch3%2Fthe-partisan-contingent-ep-2-empathy-and-pineapple-pizza%2F" width="100%"></iframe></div><div><br></div><div><i>Empathy Lives In Outer Space </i>is out now on <b>Nice Swan Records</b> and you can follow <b>Human Interest </b>on social media on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=624536293154709&set=a.597006189241053">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/humaninterestband/?hl=en">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fxhumaninterestx">X</a>. </div><div><br></div><div>Obviously stream it yeah, but you can buy it too on lovely green vinyl at their <a href="https://humaninterest.bandcamp.com/">Bandcamp</a>, you'll be supporting the artist much more too. Go ed'.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><i><br></i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-76528770690141978752023-11-16T13:12:00.000-08:002023-12-01T11:53:43.962-08:00Single Review: Vala - Fishes<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDrz1NGjRoKvQ4c1CMahWud2nvX86B8LCY_SNqWc3XHAxNRF5R4wHP0PtfbuarvVRumvCgB4F_m2G2vd9sm664Gdta0ePNYrg9faxajhoZ7OAgxc_4D7p9V0ar6Ta_O4LPwMhBJTrJi7mfd40QXo071H-Hdytt3ZYmXG04GCHYDJIF0av_elrg0JqNtxH/s3000/VALA.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDrz1NGjRoKvQ4c1CMahWud2nvX86B8LCY_SNqWc3XHAxNRF5R4wHP0PtfbuarvVRumvCgB4F_m2G2vd9sm664Gdta0ePNYrg9faxajhoZ7OAgxc_4D7p9V0ar6Ta_O4LPwMhBJTrJi7mfd40QXo071H-Hdytt3ZYmXG04GCHYDJIF0av_elrg0JqNtxH/s320/VALA.jpg" width="320"></a></div><div><br></div>Manchester band <b>Vala</b> have been slowly building a fanbase around the city with a collection of singles that have seen them create a confident brand of indie pop. They've recently worked with <b>Strokes </b>producer Gordon Raphael and we got <b>Niamh Rowley </b>to take a listen to the latest of these singles '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Fishes'.</i><br><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Music is more
commonly surrounding us in our daily activities than ever before, whether we acknowledge its
presence or not. It could simply be something that keeps you company in the car
or on public transport, in the shops whilst you’re browsing around or maybe it
just comes as a recommendation from a friend. But how often exactly do we pay
full attention to it? </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">With most tracks in the collective consciousness coming from similar genres
or the usual big named artists we tend not to broaden our horizons to what’s
waiting just a little further out, begging to be heard. Well here comes a new piece
from Manchester locals <b>Vala</b>. Bringing us a fun-loving track entitled <b><i>‘Fishes’</i></b>,
blending the best elements of indie with a futuristic pop sound, it scratches
an <a name="_Int_I7SnpEyU">itch</a> in my brain I wasn’t even aware was there. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">The four-piece band draws upon different musical elements to create the most upbeat, striking melody you can't get out of your head. A funky little guitar riff reverberates off a steady drum beat and you feel yourself wanting to have a little foot tap along with it or even a dance break. I'm not one to judge either option. It's a laid back track that is reminiscent of Leicester band <b>Easylife, </b>it gives off an effortless vibe that is easy to tune into. I do, however, find myself wishing it was longerand an urge to discover more in this genre as a result.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/21ndgVMpkIN1IVfNBHabQp" width="100%"></iframe></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Exploring
different ways of layering their vocals alongside the instruments to prevent
either one becoming overpowered allows for a smooth and streamlined track I'm positive
many will love. Introducing us to a futuristic style of music gives us newfound
hope for what’s to come and what exactly is left out there to be discovered. It
provides an all-round good atmosphere and encourages the start of a productive
day. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Being the second track in a run of five to be released by the band, I'm sure
the excitement grows not only for fans but the band as well as they start to gain
the recognition they so rightfully deserve. Previously released track <b><i>‘Bleed
Together’</i></b> follows a similar vibe to <b style="font-style: italic;">‘Fishes’</b>;<b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>it’s short and snappy but
extremely catchy and it’s clear they’ve found solace in this style and are showing off just how comfortable they are in their own skin.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ER5lQnbaVPl07nK7B7nRXLMUZ1PkCQ2Oj4fUDAvn3olS5POnczzcJksuFfzH1AIXowNlv2UE5Yzk9ySVTOGcIfEbEzb7SMXCFefxXzUCTXs5tDVaiydBBzWHGmGGn9C-GBoSDXKOg0eq_JUBZBaYd-R3pf16s0UntssClFifc5hM1FNtRODws5lC6cD9/s3089/000025350003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3089" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ER5lQnbaVPl07nK7B7nRXLMUZ1PkCQ2Oj4fUDAvn3olS5POnczzcJksuFfzH1AIXowNlv2UE5Yzk9ySVTOGcIfEbEzb7SMXCFefxXzUCTXs5tDVaiydBBzWHGmGGn9C-GBoSDXKOg0eq_JUBZBaYd-R3pf16s0UntssClFifc5hM1FNtRODws5lC6cD9/s320/000025350003.jpg" width="212"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; text-align: left;">Gearing up for a return to their hometown headlining
at the Deaf institute in Manchester on Nov 17</span><sup style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left;">th.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></sup><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; text-align: left;">With a support slot filled by</span><b style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; text-align: left;"> Foxglove</b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; text-align: left;">,
a good night is already guaranteed. A definite one to watch out for and I highly
recommend following along as they take their blossoming career to the next level. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">You can follow and find out more about </span><b style="text-align: left;">Vala </b><span style="text-align: left;">by following them on </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ValaManchester/?locale=en_GB" style="text-align: left;">Facebook</a><span style="text-align: left;">, </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/valamanchester/?hl=en-gb" style="text-align: left;">Instagram</a> and<span style="text-align: left;"> </span><a href="vala (@VALAmanchester) / X" style="text-align: left;">X</a></div><p></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-15179688337484018862023-10-30T13:38:00.181-07:002023-11-05T13:10:24.362-08:00EP Review: Shelf Lives - You Okay?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Perhaps it's indicative of the times that we live in. Perhaps it's indicative of our tribal need to reconnect. Perhaps it's a sign of things to come. However you frame it, that question we ask each other frequently - almost the first thing we ask - continues to remain as important to our sense of empathy as ever. <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You okay? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's a question that lurks at the centre of the new E.P from London Electro Punk duo <b>Shelf Lives. </b>The band are comprised of Toronto-born vocalist <b>Sabrina Di Giulio </b>and guitarist/producer <b>Jonny Hillyard, </b>who originally comes from Northampton. The pair met in London after <b>Di Giulio </b>came over to study Music Business at <b>ACM Guildford</b>, <b>Hillyard </b>had enrolled to do a Music Production course. I'd imagine one of the first things they said to each other was that very question.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2047" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIlPqL9rtSblRZUW1rDFL9DYn0KzqEp4vgDIDi2ZEjtG4G3Ewc87WQzZ8ZqFWYdDm_kYO1w1OFkw6XF8VqAXgEQ_EEOhJ0FEN9atjqCw892rTAn4KSw7wAp5y7dy72mG5MfZcRisV-kJqdypoCr8n29mZp0_blHiG4kwm1KycouxxQAUV_r4j_h5tb9gqb/s320/393389110_645197621098573_5344288563427452329_n.jpg" width="320" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">📷 Zac Mahrouche</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Despite knowing each other for several years by this point, it wasn't until 2020 that the duo started writing music together and it seems to have snowballed from there; the catalyst that both needed to spark their undoubtedly fascintaing chemistry and creativity. A deluge of singles have since appeared as well as 2022's wonderfully-titled mini album <i>Yes, offence - </i>which laid bare their blueprint laced with a flagrant disregard for the sludge of the Post Capitalist waters we continue to wade in. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Their star has risen as a result: <b>Glastonbury </b>came calling two years on the bounce and a support tour with Rock veterans <b>Skunk Anansie </b>saw them gain admiring glances outside of their usual comfort zone. Prior to the release of <i>You Okay?, </i><b>Shelf Lives </b>released two explosive single blasts of Electro Punk in the shape of '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Bite' </i>and <b>'<i>All The Problems</i>' </b>which raised their game significantly. No pressure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyAuz9_as5avcXLPR0q6UsjZ4LVnp2kS4oPfrxYEGb8nwSdZ0jBctp9TWugzMY_kGWCTZSTA53-z7hM64bIlX1FtSOyj7a-eHjt2vbmtfZRJvLHRCaRKugpj7emXRFzb66j4QKWFNzS8tlNL5jSHD3cDAXF2XpQMDvgd3l_tsqMGFp14zb1_dVbNREmv8/s2048/391733781_642363431381992_8225991289446505034_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyAuz9_as5avcXLPR0q6UsjZ4LVnp2kS4oPfrxYEGb8nwSdZ0jBctp9TWugzMY_kGWCTZSTA53-z7hM64bIlX1FtSOyj7a-eHjt2vbmtfZRJvLHRCaRKugpj7emXRFzb66j4QKWFNzS8tlNL5jSHD3cDAXF2XpQMDvgd3l_tsqMGFp14zb1_dVbNREmv8/s320/391733781_642363431381992_8225991289446505034_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The good news is that <b>Shelf Lives </b>have really stepped up to the mark. Opener '<i style="font-weight: bold;">All Grown Up' </i>sounds as if the band are being beamed back from another reality, before <b>Jonny </b>- almost flippantly - pronounces that "<i>Everything is fucked." </i>A processed beat immediately enters, creating the building blocks for the track to burst into life. A guitar lick - sounding detuned and demonic - is the next to arrive in the mix, it's almost as if <b>Tommy Iommi </b>has gatecrashed a <b>Miss Kitten </b>& <b>The Hacker </b>session at this point.<b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Quick to emerge from this spectacle is <b>Sabrina's </b>vocal that combines some urgent lyrics with an almost bored, nonchalent and sarcastic delivery:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Hurry up slow, because you're getting old</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Put your hand up just to say hello.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The vocals reach their pinnacle on the track when the duo combine to impressive effect. It's here where the song's theme of growing old disgracfully really emerges, as they both breathlessly deliver the lines:</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Do something adult,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>take your meds.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Do something adult,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>get a prescription.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Only to flip these lyrics on their head as the track ends to:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Do something adult,</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>break your legs.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Do something adult, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>get an addiction. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t4xg9XZBBpg" width="320" youtube-src-id="t4xg9XZBBpg"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The intro to <i style="font-weight: bold;">'KIDS' </i>loops menacingly into earshot with the same intensity as <b>The Prodigy</b> at their most playful. This time vocals enter together from the off and there's a line that jumps out of the speakers here straight away:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>This is my American dream because I said so. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mainly because I can only think in Americanisms as I hear the introduction of an absolutely filthy, stonking beat that is a true curveball. For those of you who don't understand baseball references, basically it means I wasn't expecting that. This is clearly the song on the E.P that will take your house party to another level. I can confidently forecast there will be many an unfortunate injury acquired with this playing in the background. The refrain in the breakdown could well be the mantra of a new generation of bohemian dropout; a 'fuck off' to conformity:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>We get fucked up on a Sunday afternoon</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>We don't get up on a Monday; joke's on you.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A change of pace and sonic style is perhaps necessary at this point in the E.P and it arrives with <i style="font-weight: bold;">'PVC Real Estate'. </i>There's a definite attempt here to have a much lighter, breezier sound on this and it certainly shows another side to <b>Shelf Lives' </b>cannon; it's more <b>Charlie XCX </b>than <b>Peaches</b>. The lyrics however, tell a different story. Taking a shot at Californian excess that is pumped into our consciousness via movies and music; a culture that celebrates vacuous celebrity and obscene wealth. The weakest track on the E.P, it doesn't quite hit with same potency as other tracks, but perhaps that is the point.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_oF6Dof3akc" width="320" youtube-src-id="_oF6Dof3akc"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">We needn't have worried, because </span><i style="text-align: left;">You Okay? </i><span style="text-align: left;">ends with the thrilling single </span><i style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">'Off The Rails', </i><span style="text-align: left;">which takes on the vicious cycle of consumerism that fails to fulfill geniune needs, but also isolates those who attempt to reject it. The hook on this track does it's job magnificently from the off; it'll break into your head and refuse to move out until you give in and let it stay without paying a penny.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> Bloody spongers. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;">Jonny </b><span style="text-align: left;">sets their stall out from the beginning with another flippant use of language, as he repeats:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><i>No fuckin' way man.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've found myself singing that far too many times since this song was released in the summer. <b>Sabrina's </b>vocals are at their most fruitful on <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Off the Rails' </i>and she plays around with her voice, yelping at points like <b>Karen O </b>stepping barefoot on a Lego piece. The chorus is an incendiary blend of bouncing beats and crunchy guitar that is unrelentingly catchy, with lyrics that reiterate the theme of the song:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i> Can't go off the rails now, </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i> because you're none in a million.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/1ZRiGE2dy6XVO5dUZCoxGc" width="100%"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's not always met with an honest answer or even asked with the desire for an honest answer, but the answer is not always as important as asking the question in the first place. With <i>You Okay?,</i> <b>Shelf Lives </b>have both asked the question and provided an accomplished response. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>You can follow <b>Shelf Lives </b>on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ShelfLives/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shelflivesbaby/?hl=en">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/ShelfLivesBaby">X</a> and buy direct from their <a href="https://shelflives.bandcamp.com/">Bandcamp</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-81861704883122608832023-10-24T12:51:00.028-07:002023-10-25T01:37:45.876-07:00Podcast: The Partisan Contingent Episode 3<p><br></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCe42Pm8bJ9tS3ONG9LSPd4rPkFGJ1JjX5G4xvPeJU0ofgDaebLrA8XBYDXNYd3kSo-cmXy2Z_ZsDBqI7Jr_rlQ-pvGCyzt_hzPppDI1EZZ9XZBEdivmqkEI2QVlSlxy_WYIR-SIGU3ahBw_4DfYvctv2lafFgowY5iC5Vn5DGb3xALm5I8MBKY7ahvsi/s2000/the-partisan-contingent-high-resolution-logo-white-on-black-background.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="2000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCe42Pm8bJ9tS3ONG9LSPd4rPkFGJ1JjX5G4xvPeJU0ofgDaebLrA8XBYDXNYd3kSo-cmXy2Z_ZsDBqI7Jr_rlQ-pvGCyzt_hzPppDI1EZZ9XZBEdivmqkEI2QVlSlxy_WYIR-SIGU3ahBw_4DfYvctv2lafFgowY5iC5Vn5DGb3xALm5I8MBKY7ahvsi/s320/the-partisan-contingent-high-resolution-logo-white-on-black-background.png" width="320"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Back once again with the ill behaviour, D for Damager, Power to the People. That's my way of saying we have a new episode of our (soon to be) award-winning podcast to inform you about. Yeah, Episode 3 of </span><b style="text-align: left;">The Partisan Contingent </b><span style="text-align: left;">is here and I can't wait for you to wrap you ears around this audio delight. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br>Fot those of you joining us for the first time: welcome to the madness! Let me answer a question that most bands HATE being asked - Why the name <b>The Partisan Contingent?</b> Well, I just like a good syllable combination; the meter is important y'all. Also, as passionate - often fervent - fans of music, we should unite and take over the means of the production studio before there's some sort of McCarthy-esque Muso purge. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">📷 Misha Warren </div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Also, I just like talking out of my behind. Episode 3 is called <i>'Far too romantic for this band' </i> - for reasons that will become obvious if you listen to the bloody thing. You can listen on Spotify(above) or Mixcloud (below). You can also listen on RadioPublic too if you like. <br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element"><span data-slate-node="text">So what can you expect from the <b>The Partisan Contingent</b>? I've decided to make a part new music radio show, part interview, part re-occurring playlist Frankenstein's Monster of a Podcast which hopefully will resonate with as many people as possible. </span>It's a grand ambition - some would say foolish - but you've got to have a dream right? They can come true you know, Gabrielle told me in the 90s.</p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="232" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/741QOe3fR0lUU0NPnVbqGy" width="100%"></iframe></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element"><br></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element">Our guests this time round are <b>G.K, Hannah, Grace, Gabby </b>and <b>Eliza </b>from Leeds Goth Rockers <b>VENUS GRRRLS, </b>who have been recently getting plenty of attention from the likes of a little radio station called <b>Radio 1 -</b> to paraphrase <b>Will Ferrel </b>in <b>Anchorman - </b>it's kind of a big deal.</p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element"> I had a lovely chin wag with the <b>GRRRLS</b> and we talked about stalking band members, regional differences, their new material, gig ettiquette and of course, they picked their choices for the <b>Apocalypse NOW That's What I Call Music Playlist </b>(see the full playlist at the bottom of the page).</p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element"><iframe frameborder="0" height="120" src="https://player-widget.mixcloud.com/widget/iframe/?hide_cover=1&light=1&feed=%2Fstephen-birch3%2Fep-3-far-too-romantic-for-this-band-with-venus-grrrls%2F" width="100%"></iframe></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element">I should also mention (as I do in the recording), that we did talk to singer <b>G.K </b>about her recent battle with Cancer. It's a poignant and ultimately inspiring story that she tells but at times mentions talk of treatment, so please take this as a trigger warning if you feel like it might be difficult for you to listen to. </p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-fragment="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" data-slate-node="element">Music comes from <b>Two Man Giant Squid, Problem Patterns, Tonguetied </b>and<b> O.</b> We also play another round of <i>Jib off the Middleman - </i>a trawl through the emails to play a song completely at random by a band or artist without the luxury of P.R support. This month we have some frantic Post Hardcore from <b>The Wurmen.</b></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-fragment="JTVCJTdCJTIydHlwZSUyMiUzQSUyMnBhcmFncmFwaCUyMiUyQyUyMmNoaWxkcmVuJTIyJTNBJTVCJTdCJTIydGV4dCUyMiUzQSUyMkxldCUyMG1lJTIwYW5zd2VyJTIwYSUyMHF1ZXN0aW9uJTIwdGhhdCUyMG1vc3QlMjBiYW5kcyUyMEhBVEUlMjBiZWluZyUyMGFza2VkJTIwLSUyMFdoeSUyMHRoZSUyMG5hbWUlQzIlQTBUaGUlMjBQYXJ0aXNhbiUyMENvbnRpbmdlbnQlM0YlQzIlQTBXZWxsJTJDJTIwSSUyMGp1c3QlMjBsaWtlJTIwYSUyMGdvb2QlMjBzeWxsYWJsZSUyMGNvbWJpbmF0aW9uJTNCJTIwdGhlJTIwbWV0ZXIlMjBpcyUyMGltcG9ydGFudCUyMHknYWxsLiUyMEFsc28lMkMlMjBhcyUyMHBhc3Npb25hdGUlMjAtJTIwb2Z0ZW4lMjBmZXJ2ZW50JTIwLSUyMGZhbnMlMjBvZiUyMG11c2ljJTJDJTIwd2UlMjBzaG91bGQlMjB1bml0ZSUyMGFuZCUyMHRha2UlMjBvdmVyJTIwdGhlJTIwbWVhbnMlMjBvZiUyMHRoZSUyMHByb2R1Y3Rpb24lMjBzdHVkaW8lMjBiZWZvcmUlMjB0aGVyZSdzJTIwc29tZSUyMHNvcnQlMjBvZiUyME1jQ2FydGh5LWVzcXVlJTIwTXVzbyUyMHB1cmdlLiVDMiVBMCUyMiU3RCU1RCU3RCUyQyU3QiUyMnR5cGUlMjIlM0ElMjJwYXJhZ3JhcGglMjIlMkMlMjJjaGlsZHJlbiUyMiUzQSU1QiU3QiUyMnRleHQlMjIlM0ElMjJBbHNvJTJDJTIwSSUyMGp1c3QlMjBsaWtlJTIwdGFsa2luZyUyMG91dCUyMG9mJTIwbXklMjBiZWhpbmQuJTIyJTdEJTVEJTdEJTJDJTdCJTIydHlwZSUyMiUzQSUyMnBhcmFncmFwaCUyMiUyQyUyMmNoaWxkcmVuJTIyJTNBJTVCJTdCJTIydGV4dCUyMiUzQSUyMlNvJTIwd2hhdCUyMGNhbiUyMHlvdSUyMGV4cGVjdCUyMGZyb20lMjB0aGUlMjBmaXJzdCUyMGVwaXNvZGUlMjBvZiVDMiVBMFRoZSUyMFBhcnRpc2FuJTIwQ29udGluZ2VudCUzRiVDMiVBMEkndmUlMjBkZWNpZGVkJTIwdG8lMjBtYWtlJTIwYSUyMHBhcnQlMjBuZXclMjBtdXNpYyUyMHJhZGlvJTIwc2hvdyUyQyUyMHBhcnQlMjBpbnRlcnZpZXclMkMlMjBwYXJ0JTIwcmUtb2NjdXJyaW5nJTIwcGxheWxpc3QlQzIlQTBGcmFua2Vuc3RlaW4ncyUyME1vbnN0ZXIlQzIlQTBvZiUyMGElMjBQb2RjYXN0JTIwLSUyMHdoaWNoJTIwaXMlMjByYXRoZXIlMjBsdWNreSUyMGJlY2F1c2UlMjBvdXIlMjBmaXJzdCUyMGd1ZXN0JTIwaXMlMjB0aGUlMjBicmlsbGlhbnQlMjBCcm9va2x5biUyMEFydCUyMFB1bmtzJUMyJUEwTWFyeSUyMFNoZWxsZXkuJUMyJUEwJTIyJTdEJTVEJTdEJTJDJTdCJTIydHlwZSUyMiUzQSUyMnBhcmFncmFwaCUyMiUyQyUyMmNoaWxkcmVuJTIyJTNBJTVCJTdCJTIydGV4dCUyMiUzQSUyMlRha2UlMjBhJTIwbGlzdGVuJTIwdG8lMjBvdXIlMjBmaXJzdCUyMGVwaXNvZGUlMjBhbmQlMjBsaWtlJTJDJTIwc3Vic2NyaWJlJTIwYW5kJTIwY29tbWVudCUyMG9uJTIwaXQlMkMlMjBiZWNhdXNlJTIwdGhhdCdzJTIwc29tZXRoaW5nJTIwSSdtJTIwc3VwcG9zZWQlMjB0byUyMGdldCUyMHlvdSUyMHRvJTIwZG8lM0IlMjBJJTIwaGF2ZSUyMG5vJTIwaWRlYSUyMHdoYXQlMjB0aGF0JTIwbWVhbnMuJTIyJTdEJTVEJTdEJTVE" data-slate-node="element">Be Part of The Partisan.</p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-fragment="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" data-slate-node="element"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/0fhwlndefIYO51tDEcRafi" width="100%"></iframe></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-fragment="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" data-slate-node="element"><br></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element"><b> </b></p></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-23879346324543344972023-10-17T14:57:00.004-07:002023-10-24T12:07:52.830-07:00Single Review: Spyres - The Thing<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1195" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZnn32x4sQTJe6NEpr3nnJ5k51byA-7gHsVjj3uiXEXf1ESEHnNtIYDZCvBEX0REWCGg6RKNJsG-ZOJFjAuoBkrVBpaQ8wR-EzTVy-6HSMDmjxCIUY3oQU_pLewbhYdEEsGdjWk8seypumCwmxkzEEEX4CdRUY2qiOxGtnWZ0SxjJjdvnahNF9KdmVa6Qj/s320/mail.jpg" width="241"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">📷 Daniel Blake</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As summer draws close to ending for another year and Autumn creeps it's way into our consciousness, we begin to retreat to our homes to escape the cold. Spending her time watching films and catching up with new music this time of year, <b>Niamh Rowley </b>took the time to listen to the new single from Scottish band <b>SPYRES </b>as she battens down the hatches for the inevtibale drop in temperature around the corner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Glasgow-based four-piece <b>SPYRES</b> return with new single <i style="font-weight: bold;">'The Thing'</i>off their forthcoming EP <i>Karaoke Sellout, </i>due to be released on Novermber 24th. Having already released two singles off the EP already - entitled '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Money' </i>and '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Sleep Forever' </i>- I can't wait to see what else they have to offer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXtzP6FbK185pTRhh2c1rewrEZ6tYXoSDXiN1K2QfbipTek3pkInp0ltiJyCYQ5Qvs0AgVUMN-3KNB8iTHbpCCN4mqHvZn0uUAa6uGhp8-ZuwExNAYsshs_K3fMgfLnJ22SjsIW65Wfsh6S9nOt_mmBjzKR1uG-jQ-iktg-ZFgUBDDNsbAWr2n-ObZovQI/s886/mail%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="886" data-original-width="886" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXtzP6FbK185pTRhh2c1rewrEZ6tYXoSDXiN1K2QfbipTek3pkInp0ltiJyCYQ5Qvs0AgVUMN-3KNB8iTHbpCCN4mqHvZn0uUAa6uGhp8-ZuwExNAYsshs_K3fMgfLnJ22SjsIW65Wfsh6S9nOt_mmBjzKR1uG-jQ-iktg-ZFgUBDDNsbAWr2n-ObZovQI/s320/mail%20(1).jpg" width="320"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Taking an indie pop approach to their music, the band are starting to move out of their Glasgow comfort zone and seem to be succeeding after their recent 7-date tour. With angsty vocals and kickass melodies that worm their way into your head, the foursome consisting of <b>Keira McGuire (Vocals/Guitar), Emily Downie (Guitar), Jude Curran (Bass) </b>and <b>Alex White (Drums) </b>have gained some appreciative fans in the music press. <b>Radio 1</b>, <b>Radio X </b>and <b>Kerrang! </b>have all showed the band considerable support in 2023.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just seconds into <i style="font-weight: bold;">'The Thing', </i>we're greeted by a quirky little guitar riff that makes me almost instantly want to get up and boogie with reckless abandon. If this was the effect it had on me - currently sitting alone writing this in my room - then I can only imagine what it'll be doing to crowds of adoring fans. With energetic hooks and pent-up vocals, I was sold by the very first verse.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/7jwHvXTWFpBTgAou7Ut4vL" width="100%"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Finding myself coming back for another listen after listening to their other tracks, I have nothing but praise for what they've created here. The lyrical content is delivered with an almost conversational style; it feels as though <b>McGuire </b>is talking directly to you, trying to grab your attention through the speakers. It's a talent that not many have nailed down, but they no doubt do.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reminding me of acts like <b>Coach Party, Bitters </b>and <b>Lauren Hibberd, </b>I can see why with songs like <i style="font-weight: bold;">'The Thing' </i>the band are very much on the rise. So, whether you have found out about this lovely bunch from this piece or are a long term fan, this single is another step on the ladder to bigger things. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>SPYRES </b>EP <i>Karaoke Sellout </i>is released on November 24th and you can follow the band and find out more on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/spyresmusic">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/spyr3s">X</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/spyr3s">Instagram</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><br><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-22931986495392813942023-09-20T05:06:00.018-07:002023-10-05T13:16:47.676-07:00Podcast: The Partisan Contingent Episode 2 <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh18Dbj-YLWYgnBnTTlZJgsADmy0u-OZg6pbn-IAXzBedJSFq8usBLJPnFL1PG83YmfcpAMyrZQ-QAsqFvulWw08soQiyr_kHpLPWVKgxMNjsmC1th4Q6ySm0Qg2kbG24qXfiOKkbBZjH4uerFrZ0MOU4iq521ouKJk4F0n_RaXzSI4oMIWVIGvSmxV94IJ" width="400" />
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</div><p></p><p>We're back baby! Yeah, Episode 2 of <b>The Partisan Contingent </b>has taken a lot longer than I possibly could have imagined, but we got there in the end. You have applaud the persistance if nothing else.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let me answer a question that most bands HATE being asked - Why the name <b>The Partisan Contingent?</b> Well, I just like a good syllable combination; the meter is important y'all. Also, as passionate - often fervent - fans of music, we should unite and take over the means of the production studio before there's some sort of McCarthy-esque Muso purge. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Human Interest </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>(📷 Lola Stephen)</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Also, I just like talking out of my behind. Episode 2 is called <i>'Empathy and Pineapple Pizza' </i> for reasons that will become obvious if you listen to the bloody thing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element"><span data-slate-node="text">So what can you expect from the <b>The Partisan Contingent</b>? I've decided to make a part new music radio show, part interview, part re-occurring playlist <b>Frankenstein's Monster </b>of a Podcast which hopefully will resonate with as many people as possible. Our guests this time round are <b>Cat </b>and <b>Tyler </b>from London Rock n' Roll band <b>Human Interest, </b>who have been recently getting plenty of attention from the likes of <b>6 Music </b>and <b>Radio X</b></span><b>.</b></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element"><b><iframe frameborder="0" height="102px" scrolling="no" src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stephen-birch1/embed/episodes/The-Partisan-Contingent-EP-2-Empathy-and-Pineapple-Pizza-e29ij2h" width="400px"></iframe> </b></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-node="element">Take a listen and like, subscribe and comment on it, because that's something I'm supposed to get you to do; I have no idea what any of that means. You can listen on one of two links - Spotify above - or if you prefer - Mixcloud at the bottom of the page. If not just search <b>The Partisan Contingent </b>on Spotify and you'll find it.</p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-fragment="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" data-slate-node="element">Music comes from <b>Slaney Bay, Vice Killer, Militarie Gun, William the Conqueror</b> and we play another round of <i>Jib off the Middleman - </i>a trawl through the emails to play a song completely at random by a band or artist without the luxury of P.R support. This month we have some intriguing Americana from <b>Part Bat.</b></p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-fragment="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" data-slate-node="element">Be Part of The Partisan.</p><p class="Type__TypeElement-sc-goli3j-0 idfSAh" data-encore-id="type" data-slate-fragment="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" data-slate-node="element"><iframe frameborder="0" height="120" src="https://player-widget.mixcloud.com/widget/iframe/?hide_cover=1&feed=%2Fstephen-birch3%2Fthe-partisan-contingent-ep-2-empathy-and-pineapple-pizza%2F" width="100%"></iframe></p><div><span data-slate-node="text"><br /></span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-52377469688449052482023-09-14T08:45:00.147-07:002023-09-14T14:30:50.288-07:00News: mclusky return with first new material in 19 years<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzKlCNbHjd67LMzwhWUfYlgJKqfJnz83M_IEprLCLxgOryUUL8koJBi78AZINZRFc-0LJlVKkSo04stC8a9OjwuTiqW2Da0uxsqwlFMDTqMkjMKAgPOXEGmeecWKVtTGF7pAXzl6KbUV81dKY6eGdgi2TSe7exGR7hElotIX_Q81CQC33PkJ2pglJby25/s1200/a1804167501_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzKlCNbHjd67LMzwhWUfYlgJKqfJnz83M_IEprLCLxgOryUUL8koJBi78AZINZRFc-0LJlVKkSo04stC8a9OjwuTiqW2Da0uxsqwlFMDTqMkjMKAgPOXEGmeecWKVtTGF7pAXzl6KbUV81dKY6eGdgi2TSe7exGR7hElotIX_Q81CQC33PkJ2pglJby25/s320/a1804167501_10.jpg" width="320"></a></div><br><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Legendary Punks </span><b style="text-align: left;">mclusky</b><span style="text-align: left;"> have today announced their first material in 19 years, with a - as yet untitled - new album to follow in 2024. The band</span><b style="text-align: left;"> </b><span style="text-align: left;">split up in 2004 in acrimonious circumstances with frontman </span><b style="text-align: left;">Andrew Falkous </b><span style="text-align: left;">going on to form </span><b style="text-align: left;">Future of the Left </b><span style="text-align: left;">with drummer </span><b style="text-align: left;">Jack Egglestone </b><span style="text-align: left;">and former </span><b style="text-align: left;">Jarcrew </b><span style="text-align: left;">frontman </span><b style="text-align: left;">Kelson; </b><span style="text-align: left;">more recently he has been releasing solo material under the guise of </span><b style="text-align: left;">Christian Fitness.</b><span style="text-align: left;"> Announcing the new material with his usual sardonic wit, </span><b style="text-align: left;">Falkous (aka Falco) </b><span style="text-align: left;">released this statement to coincide with the band's new songs:</span></div></div><div><br></div><div></div><blockquote><div>people-persons-guys-girls-australians...</div><div><br></div><div>here are four mclusky songs, newly recorded and flattened into shape - the first release since 2004 (you can use the calculator on your phone to find out that's nineteen years, which is the lifecycle of four haircuts). the first two songs, <b><i>'unpopular parts of a pig'</i></b> and <b><i>'the digger you deep'</i></b> should make the album we are releasing next year (we're hopefully finishing up recording in february). anyway, medium story short, we're hoping to rearrange our US dates for march of next year and need to raise money for visas, hence this here, now, at this price.</div><div><br></div><div>If it's a bit steep for you at the moment, drop me a message and we'll figure something out.</div><div><br></div><div>ave and all that shit</div><div><br></div><div>falco</div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oqOp70ZQdkk" width="320" youtube-src-id="oqOp70ZQdkk"></iframe></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;">mclusky </b><span style="text-align: left;">released three studio albums that have gone on to provide direct influence to some of the UK's current crop of punks: </span><i style="text-align: left;">My Pain and Sadness is More Sad and Painful Than Yours </i><span style="text-align: left;">(2000)</span><i style="text-align: left;">, mclusky do Dallas </i><span style="text-align: left;">(2002)</span><i style="text-align: left;"> </i><span style="text-align: left;">and </span><i style="text-align: left;">The Only Difference Between You and Me is I'm Not on Fire </i><span style="text-align: left;">(2004). From 2002, the band worked with celebrated producer </span><b style="text-align: left;">Steve Albini, </b><span style="text-align: left;">who brought out the ferocity of the songs with his unique production techniques. A comprehensive compilation of singles, b-sides, c-sides and raritities </span><i style="text-align: left;">Mcluskyism </i><span style="text-align: left;">was released after they split in 2006. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">The name of this blog is a <b>mclusky </b>song title in case you didn't know already. Take a listen to the new material at the Bandcamp link below</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2407366859/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 470px; width: 350px;"><a href="https://mcluskymclusky.bandcamp.com/album/unpopular-parts-of-a-pig-the-digger-you-deep">unpopular parts of a pig / the digger you deep by mclusky</a></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br></span></div><p></p><div></div><blockquote><div> </div></blockquote><div><blockquote><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"></div></div></blockquote><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"></div></div></div><div><br></div><div> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-74047190459635180892023-09-11T06:52:00.002-07:002023-09-14T09:43:02.609-07:00New Video: The Velvet Hands - Meet Me In The City<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYVs1ZNbsK9g6dm26c0jq7Py6uo4zVMH0iPF4tGI9iCExIg2LZQNfnKanR8tdhEt20iwZ4qtUQ1SLv7ZbmghcT-Jti2uZ1PJ1mc_kn6lzfEBAg8eGywM_eZuaRLlXtumrtYNXRS-GUtqB7EZ-MBOcgx-Slk1y_tBy5_sTO3mtZKHMfICqpIuIbKmHMOGx/s320/VH-6.jpg" width="320"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">📷 Emma MacDonald</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The summer is nearly done and dusted for another year, but <b>Niamh Rowley</b> isn't letting that get her down. With the help of new single from <b>The Velvet Hands, </b>she's reliving it time and time again. <b>Niamh </b>telles us more about the London indie rockers and why '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Meet Me In The City' </i>might just be the song of the year. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Calling out to the lovers of all things' music! We have a bundle of excitement to wade through here from tours to albums and music videos; there’s no shortage of content to unpack . So, join me as I introduce you to what could possibly just be your new favourite obsession. Originally hailing from Cornwall before heading over to make a breakthrough in the London scene, <b>The Velvet Hands</b> are beginning to turn more than a few heads. </span></span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-5c77d84c-7fff-fcdf-051f-e208b3c4649c"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Having dropped their second album </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">sucker punch</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> in February this year, <b>The Velvet Hands</b> aimed to please. It saw them successfully rocket their way onto festival lineups such as <b>Truck Festival,</b> headlining the<i> ‘This Feeling’</i> tent as well at the <b>Great Estate Festival</b> in amongst a run of shows across the Uk headlining and supporting. Working tirelessly to create the best possible music and create the most enthusiastic atmosphere for their shows and fans, it’s only right to take a deeper look at the material.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2jhX3how5boTn0AVZQx7m_V7-LbfXJFRXc9PfAK2kBsUCP8QC9_lBYXgmIl80gX8v0pLINpfVqYG7sFRKyFKJkXjh44JwWx4tIqFXfJIcp8lBNg0lEKRpfD2_U1TUr3_vt44viQMLFF08JiYeUUDFOWktRx4bMYOxTUzK2-sVsLkhk6gih5FO7SIb-sok/s3000/VH-15.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2jhX3how5boTn0AVZQx7m_V7-LbfXJFRXc9PfAK2kBsUCP8QC9_lBYXgmIl80gX8v0pLINpfVqYG7sFRKyFKJkXjh44JwWx4tIqFXfJIcp8lBNg0lEKRpfD2_U1TUr3_vt44viQMLFF08JiYeUUDFOWktRx4bMYOxTUzK2-sVsLkhk6gih5FO7SIb-sok/s320/VH-15.jpg" width="320"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Creating a fun filled video for their current single <i><b>‘Meet Me in the City’</b></i> which dropped just a couple weeks ago, inevitably creating a wave of buzz in time for their announcement. They shared how they’re set to release an extended cut of their album </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">sucker punch</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> on November 3</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">rd</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. </span></span></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Well, onwards we go to the song itself, I find it to be genuinely quite unique and full of life. Whilst carrying a similar edgy guitar beat known and loved closely by anyone in the indie crowd, it still has its own individualism, I find myself immediately keen and engaging with it. Providing catchy lyrics and punchy vocals, the need to dance immediately takes over. Having a bouncy guitar line and a movement provoking drum included throughout allows it to all blend so seamlessly into the vocals surrounding it, you can see why it’s set to be a definite crowd pleaser. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SY49wNZaAA0" width="320" youtube-src-id="SY49wNZaAA0"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The way these lads so evidently love making and performing music together shines through effortlessly in this song. I would even go as far as saying it’s up there as a song of the summer. So, if it’s not already, get it in your playlists and stream it endlessly!</span></span></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Filming the video on top of a yellow American school bus turned bar by 8 track rum during its visit to <b>Great Estate Festiva</b>l. With the retro-style camera shooting you can’t help but smile. It’s reminiscent of a stereotypical summer you dream of with your friends. No more exams, hanging out at festivals in the sun, a couple cans on the go whilst seeing the people you idolise the most performing in front of you. Sounds perfect, no? I found myself shamelessly living vicariously through the footage. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">With the boys preparing for a nine-day run of UK shows throughout November making stops in all the major cities including the likes of Manchester, Liverpool and Cardiff. I highly recommend finding out if they’re playing a city near you and if so, go support! There’s truly nothing more exciting than seeing grassroots music on the ladder to the big leagues. I for one can say I'll be in the front row cheering them on, why not join me?</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="352" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/40tPyjDVOvwGLd4gvRWSVZ?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe> </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Catch <b>The Velvet Hands </b>on tour in November at the following venues:</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"> 1st: <b>London Colours</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>2nd: <b>Cardiff Moon Club</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b> </b>3rd: <b>Bristol Golden Lion</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b> </b>4th: <b>Liverpool Jacaranda</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b> </b>16th: <b>Manchester 33 Oldham St</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b> </b>17th: <b>Leeds Oporto</b><span></span></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b> </b>18th: <b>Birmingham Dead Wax</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b> </b>23rd: <b>Falmouth The Cornish Bank</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b> </b>24th: <b>Plymouth Underground</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;">You can follow <b>The Velvet Hands </b>on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thevelvethands/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thevelvethands">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fthevelvethands1">X</a> and get tickets from their <a href="http://www.thevelvethands.co.uk/">website</a></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #606060; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22.5px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><br></p></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757996257624523044.post-25288154073429131072023-08-19T11:54:00.442-07:002023-09-05T03:55:17.877-07:00Album Review: Two-Man Giant Squid - Intro to Basement<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><p>The notion of personal taste should be very much like this wonderous and deeply mysterious universe; ever-expanding and shifting as the agents of change take effect. <br></p><p>It should be, but it isn't. </p><p>Such are the limitations of the human brain, our tastes in subjective matters are often crystalised at key points in our life; rarely shifting. Evolution rewarded those could survive, not those who expanded their horizons and our brains are not wired much beyond that. Music taste is no different. We may see subtle changes over time, but research has indicated that 14 is the average age where our tastes are formed. We also tend to be drawn to personalities that we identify with. That recognition of patterns and structures that is often shared by the music we love is what keeps us coming back for more. </p><p>Hailing from Brooklyn in New York, <b>Two-Man Giant Squid</b> make lucid and tight Indie Rock that flicks the switch in whatever part of my brain deals with such things. Intially starting as a solo project for frontman <b>Mitch Vinokur, </b>they soon grew into the full band that they've now become. The band have developed a reputation for their strong live show and the challenge was to replicate that on new album <i>Intro To Basement</i>; it's a challenge that <b>Two-Man Giant Squid </b>sound up for.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br><p></p><p>Opener '<i>The Opposite' </i>sets out their stall from the get go. A three-note bass riff heralds the song's arrival with drums following suit. The guitar enters and it's hopeful in it's tone; a build up that creates a sense of anticipation. The vocals<b> </b>enter sounding like a slightly jaded preacher on a New York street corner. The lyrics find him in a pensive state, perhaps trying to offer advice to a younger audience:<br></p><p><i>Pain is not the answer , neither is the opposite</i></p><p><i>Drugs are not the answer and neither is the opposite.</i></p><p>A tickle of synth enters the mix before the chorus kicks in and you can hear <b>Vinokur </b>chanelling his inner <b>James Murphy </b>as<b> </b>his vocal get more frantic. The song keeps building into a frenzied rush with more guitar lines added - it should just make you want to dance - before dismantling and going back to the bare bones of minimal bass and drum. </p><p><i style="font-weight: bold;">'Junkie Talk' </i>kicks in with a classic drum beat that is soon joined with a throbbing post-punk bassline that recalls early <b>Joy Division. </b>Stabs of guitar sneak their way into the gaps and the vocals enter with a sense of urgency. Again it seems like the lyrics are aimed at someone as <b>Vinokur</b> decrys a change of demeanor when entering into a drug deal.</p><p><i>Fix your mind on something else.</i></p><p><i>The way you're talking, you're not quite yourself.</i></p><p>There's a shift of tempo and you can hear the amps being ramped up as the desperation to help takes hold. There's a rallying cry element to this track that I'm drawn to and it's akin to <b>Parquet Courts </b>at their most fiery.</p><p> <iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=2290555125/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=1891794299/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="https://twomangiantsquid.bandcamp.com/album/intro-to-basement">Intro to Basement by Two-Man Giant Squid</a></iframe></p><p>The band seem to be at their most effective when they let rip and an undoubted highlight of the album is the sensational '<i style="font-weight: bold;">No End In Sight'. </i>It comes staight out the blocks with no prolonged build up and draws you in showing a side of the band not heard until this point. There's an almost post-hardcore style intensity to this and it brings out the beast in <b>Vinokur's </b>voice; the ferocity of his delivery matching the urgency of the backing. The song was written as a response to synth player <b>Sam </b>freaking out about turning the grand old age of 30 and how there is plenty of life yet to give. The guitars sound huge as the track explodes into a cavalcade of noise that elevates the song to a scintallsting climax.</p><p>Further evidence comes in the shape of former single <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Progress' </i>which has an immediacy that is difficult to ignore. The song is a warning not to be taken in by salesmanship that promises steady improvement and the lyrics have their tongue very firmly in their cheek. Just like <i style="font-weight: bold;">'No End In Sight', </i>it's clear that this will go down well in a live setting, which is very much the intention.</p><p>Despite this, the softer moments on the album are not to be slept on. Another previous single '<i style="font-weight: bold;">Cold Fingers' </i>has become a fan favourite and is often used to break up the frenetic energy of their more boisterous numbers. The guitar intro is simple, but it's all that is needed to produce a track that resonates on more than one level. The dreamy blend of soothing guitars and a tranquil layered synth compliment each other beautifully. <b>Vinokur </b>puts in his finest vocal performance on <i>Intro to Basement</i>s, sounding like a young <b>Robert Smith </b>pushing the limits of his range to breaking point. As if this song couldn't get any better, guitarist <b>Robbie </b>provides a glorious, spine-tingling solo that add an extra touch of class.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mTeneuCJ3_M" width="320" youtube-src-id="mTeneuCJ3_M"></iframe></div><p>Closer <i style="font-weight: bold;">'Dogs' </i>starts in a similar vein, with a wistful strum that could easily be on <b>Pavement's </b><i>Brighten The Corners. </i>It's a thoughful track that ponders how a human would look at their life if they had the life expectancy of a dog - growing older quicker, with less time to think themselves out of following their own path with lyrics that spell out the existential quandry:</p><p><i>Don't you think that dogs have it made now, </i></p><p><i>did the math and I want the same.</i></p><p><i>Sit and wait underneath the pantry, </i></p><p><i>and I wait for you to call my name. </i></p><p>What follows is a masterclass in the spiralling exit of a great indie rock album. You can hear and feel the build up, you know it's coming and yet it still hits in all the right places. You could call it the Rock equivalent of an EDM 'drop' and that wouldn't be too far from the truth. A blistering blend of dynamic guitars, icey synth and a perfectly in-sync rhytym section, it leads to what is a suitably incendiary crescendo.</p><p>I've never subscribed to the notion that familiarity breeds contempt, more that it provides comfort and reliability. There's nothing comfortable about <i>Intro To Basement, </i>but it does play to <b>Two-Man Giant Squid's </b>considerable strengths as a live band; capturing their essence in the process. A short but sweet album, the rewards are plentiful and you'll want to come back for more time and time again.</p><p><br></p><p><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="352" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/6GwBeCHDBDtvpjrOWGAvVl?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe></p><p> You can follow and engage with <b>Two-Man Giant Squid </b>on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/twomangiantsquid/?hl=en">Instagram</a>. They're also on Threads, but I have no idea how to link that.</p><p><br></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0