After finally gaining a new drummer and bassist, The Jackobins, a five piece form Merseyside are finally complete. Having successfully released their debut EP last year, to rave reviews, they felt it was time to get back to writing new material. New single, The Otherside, is due to be released on the 18th May. Its a very anthemic tune which takes you on a wonderfully heady vocal roller coaster. This toe tapping, shake everything you got tune is a must for any summer playlist.
Check out The Jackobins on Facebook and Twitter to find out where and when you can catch them live.
Tuesday, 6 May 2014
Tuesday, 11 March 2014
Path Unknown, single release
Path Unknown are a four piece alt rock band from Southport. On 1st March the band released their single Sit & Wonder. The track opens with soft, tantalising, acoustic guitar notes and breathy, slightly bluesy vocals, evenly paced, not what I was expecting at all, but very pleasant. Then about 1 minute in, there is a sudden explosion of drums as the tempo, pace and sound changes and it suddenly becomes the rock tune that I was expecting. The constant beat of the drums that makes your head nod and your foot tap, mixed with vibrant electric guitar riffs that completely turn this track on its head, making you want to jump about, because the beat is so intense that you don't want to keep still. The influence of old style pro's like the Eagles are mixed with the rock grunge of Nirvana to tickle and tease the eardrums.
Definitely worth checking out and I look forward to hearing more.
Definitely worth checking out and I look forward to hearing more.
Sunday, 2 March 2014
F.O.E.S, The Telegraph
With the release of their first EP, Ophir, F.O.E.S (Fall of Every Sparrow) set out on their first tour, staring in their home town of Liverpool. They then took their rock sound to Scotland, down to Coventry and then to Newcastle which is where I was going to check them out.
Having previously listened to the EP, it was safe to say that I was more than a little excited to see them play live. I arrived at The Telegraph, in Newcastle, moments before the second band took the stage. Shotgun Charlie played a few covers and to be quite honest, they did nothing that made me take any notice of them, they were barely background music. F.O.E.S were up next. Considering this was their first tour, they were like total pros. They started with 'Ruin Lies in the Bow and the Sword', a track I wasn't familiar with. But the explosive burst of drums and guitars, really got the attention of the crowd. They followed with 'Writing on the Wall' and ' Ningyo', both tracks from the EP. And I have to say I was blown away by the heavy guitar riffs and scintillating drum sequences. These guys were playing heavier than I had imagined their music was ever going to be, but with occasional softer, tender vocals blended to perfection.I was loving every minute of it, as was the head nodding crowd. They went on to play a further three tracks, the final two, 'Sewn to the Sail and Unknown' and 'The Four of Oxblood', both from the EP and both surpassing all of my expectations.
Once again the final band of the night, whose name escapes me, were boring. Although they did have a few fans in the audience. For me F.O.E.S were the beautiful rich filling between the boring bread, in a sandwich. If you haven't had the chance to catch these guys, I suggest you buy the EP and give your ears the treat they deserve.
Having previously listened to the EP, it was safe to say that I was more than a little excited to see them play live. I arrived at The Telegraph, in Newcastle, moments before the second band took the stage. Shotgun Charlie played a few covers and to be quite honest, they did nothing that made me take any notice of them, they were barely background music. F.O.E.S were up next. Considering this was their first tour, they were like total pros. They started with 'Ruin Lies in the Bow and the Sword', a track I wasn't familiar with. But the explosive burst of drums and guitars, really got the attention of the crowd. They followed with 'Writing on the Wall' and ' Ningyo', both tracks from the EP. And I have to say I was blown away by the heavy guitar riffs and scintillating drum sequences. These guys were playing heavier than I had imagined their music was ever going to be, but with occasional softer, tender vocals blended to perfection.I was loving every minute of it, as was the head nodding crowd. They went on to play a further three tracks, the final two, 'Sewn to the Sail and Unknown' and 'The Four of Oxblood', both from the EP and both surpassing all of my expectations.
Once again the final band of the night, whose name escapes me, were boring. Although they did have a few fans in the audience. For me F.O.E.S were the beautiful rich filling between the boring bread, in a sandwich. If you haven't had the chance to catch these guys, I suggest you buy the EP and give your ears the treat they deserve.
Sunday, 2 February 2014
2014. New Year, New Music
Saturday 1st February
Well what a roller coaster of a year it was for me last year. Being a real music enthusiast I was devastated when one of my favourite local bands, in fact, one of my favourite bands decided to call it a day. The Chapman Family were no more. Still, my favourite band of all time, Sound of Guns, had a gig, their first in quite a few months. After a fantastic gig in Whitehaven, my world was torn apart when next day it was announced that they too were calling it a day.
But as the saying goes, as one door closes another door opens. And so quite by accident I stumbled upon an amazing band, Exit Calm. The four piece from South Yorkshire, released their second album, The Future Isn't What It Used To Be, in September 2013, and what an album it is. The raspy vocals of frontman Nicky Smith, combined with some of the best psychedelic guitar and bass riffs that I have heard, come together to produce some memorable anthemic tunes.
I was now on a mission to see these guys play live again. A trip to Sunderland and Liverpool confirmed that I had been missing out on one of the music industries hidden gems. The release of the second single from the album, The Promise, prompted a mini tour. I was lucky enough to see the final night of the tour in Bodega, Nottingham. The two support bands, didn't leave me wanting more, I was there for one band only, and judging by the packed out venue, others were too.
With tracks such as Fiction, The Rapture and Holy War, (all from the new album) and the menacing meanderings of the singer, Exit Calm had the crowd in the palm of their hand begging for more after the last song. They came back for the encore with one of my favourite tracks Higher Bound, leaving me in no doubt that I would be seeing a lot more of these guys.
Well what a roller coaster of a year it was for me last year. Being a real music enthusiast I was devastated when one of my favourite local bands, in fact, one of my favourite bands decided to call it a day. The Chapman Family were no more. Still, my favourite band of all time, Sound of Guns, had a gig, their first in quite a few months. After a fantastic gig in Whitehaven, my world was torn apart when next day it was announced that they too were calling it a day.
But as the saying goes, as one door closes another door opens. And so quite by accident I stumbled upon an amazing band, Exit Calm. The four piece from South Yorkshire, released their second album, The Future Isn't What It Used To Be, in September 2013, and what an album it is. The raspy vocals of frontman Nicky Smith, combined with some of the best psychedelic guitar and bass riffs that I have heard, come together to produce some memorable anthemic tunes.
I was now on a mission to see these guys play live again. A trip to Sunderland and Liverpool confirmed that I had been missing out on one of the music industries hidden gems. The release of the second single from the album, The Promise, prompted a mini tour. I was lucky enough to see the final night of the tour in Bodega, Nottingham. The two support bands, didn't leave me wanting more, I was there for one band only, and judging by the packed out venue, others were too.
With tracks such as Fiction, The Rapture and Holy War, (all from the new album) and the menacing meanderings of the singer, Exit Calm had the crowd in the palm of their hand begging for more after the last song. They came back for the encore with one of my favourite tracks Higher Bound, leaving me in no doubt that I would be seeing a lot more of these guys.
Sunday, 7 April 2013
Joy Projector presents 3ft Ninja
After a lovely drive through the North Yorkshire Moors, I arrived at Danby Village Hall, the venue for the evenings shenanigans. The hall had been spruced up with fairy lights and a projector was displaying scenes across the ceiling. There were tables set out with carrots and a variety of rabbit masks, which kind of had me pondering what was to come.
Josh and Alex, an acoustic duo from Teesside, were first up. Reminding me of James Morrison, their tunes were melodic and the vocals very strong. Although not my cup of tea, the guys clearly have talent.
Next up a band that I was eager to see, Dead New Blood, who came highly recommended. Within the first few seconds this four piece had me rooted to the spot. Mesmerised by the pounding drums and scintillating guitar riffs, it was really loud, everything I love about a great rock band. Although the first tune was vocal free, the music was so captivating that words weren't necessary. When the next song started I was taken aback slightly by the vocals. I had been expecting a kinda run of the mill indie/rock sound and instead was greeted with deep bluesy notes that danced around my ear drums. Their final track of the evening had everything a great rock tune should possess with 70s psychedelic guitar riffs, rhythmic drums and great vocals. You can check these guys out on Bandcamp, and seriously, can't recommend them enough!
The last band of the night, 3ft Ninja, a 3 piece indie/punk band also from nearby Castletown, opened with Fire and the Fury, taken from their self titled debut album. Having seen them play 3 times in the last week, I knew my senses were in for a treat. The band has so much energy, belting out anthemic tunes one after another. These guys are so entertaining to watch, as well as giving your ears a bashing, (in a good way), it is near impossible to get a photo that isn't blurred as they bounce around the stage (and off it). By the end of the second song the drummers shirt was off, which appears to be his trademark. They played a couple of covers, sixties ska standard 'Monkey Man' and the Specials' 'A Message To You Rudy', and although both well executed, felt a bit unnecessary in the set as their own material is exceptional. They encored with what is to be their next single and finished with the Prodigy's Breathe, (of which I wasn't aware as not a fan), which was incredible. These guys are definitely my ones to watch for 2013, so do yourself a favour and check them out.
After a lovely drive through the North Yorkshire Moors, I arrived at Danby Village Hall, the venue for the evenings shenanigans. The hall had been spruced up with fairy lights and a projector was displaying scenes across the ceiling. There were tables set out with carrots and a variety of rabbit masks, which kind of had me pondering what was to come.
Josh and Alex, an acoustic duo from Teesside, were first up. Reminding me of James Morrison, their tunes were melodic and the vocals very strong. Although not my cup of tea, the guys clearly have talent.
Next up a band that I was eager to see, Dead New Blood, who came highly recommended. Within the first few seconds this four piece had me rooted to the spot. Mesmerised by the pounding drums and scintillating guitar riffs, it was really loud, everything I love about a great rock band. Although the first tune was vocal free, the music was so captivating that words weren't necessary. When the next song started I was taken aback slightly by the vocals. I had been expecting a kinda run of the mill indie/rock sound and instead was greeted with deep bluesy notes that danced around my ear drums. Their final track of the evening had everything a great rock tune should possess with 70s psychedelic guitar riffs, rhythmic drums and great vocals. You can check these guys out on Bandcamp, and seriously, can't recommend them enough!
The last band of the night, 3ft Ninja, a 3 piece indie/punk band also from nearby Castletown, opened with Fire and the Fury, taken from their self titled debut album. Having seen them play 3 times in the last week, I knew my senses were in for a treat. The band has so much energy, belting out anthemic tunes one after another. These guys are so entertaining to watch, as well as giving your ears a bashing, (in a good way), it is near impossible to get a photo that isn't blurred as they bounce around the stage (and off it). By the end of the second song the drummers shirt was off, which appears to be his trademark. They played a couple of covers, sixties ska standard 'Monkey Man' and the Specials' 'A Message To You Rudy', and although both well executed, felt a bit unnecessary in the set as their own material is exceptional. They encored with what is to be their next single and finished with the Prodigy's Breathe, (of which I wasn't aware as not a fan), which was incredible. These guys are definitely my ones to watch for 2013, so do yourself a favour and check them out.
Monday, 5 November 2012
Tissue Culture EP Launch
Wednesday 31st October
It was Halloween and the stage in The Cluny 2 was adorned with skulls. As I surveyed the crowd, there was some pretty good costumes, as Tissue Culture had offered cheaper entry to anyone in fancy dress.
First support of the evening was Reckoner. As a fan, I was excited to see the new lineup. Ex-Chased By Wolves drummer, Lewis Brett, was a new addition, as well as Steve Calder on harmonica, a new sound dimension that I was interested to hear. I was impressed with the new dynamic and it was great to see Calder getting really animated, along to Reckoner's raw, dirty bluesy sound. They finished with last single, Hope and Grace - a great tune.
Next on stage a band I'd only seen once before, Air to Achilles. As they launched into their first song, I was reminded how much I'd enjoyed them previously. Lots of loud guitar and drums, and some great keyboard and synth sounds, (of which I'm a sucker for). I found myself captivated by the drummer, who has to be one of the most interesting I've seen. His sticks just appeared to go far faster than normal human arms allow. I'd definitely recommend giving both of these bands a listen.
The time was now upon us. Tissue Culture took to the stage, suited and booted with faces painted and looking like extras from The Rocky Horror Show. They opened with Bleak Northern Beaches, and then went on to play Saint Waleric EP in order. For Safe, Safe, Safe and Satellites, they were joined by local singer/songwriter, Hannah D'Arcy, on accompanying vocals. The second half of the storming set featured a few older favourites and finished with brand new track (working title 'Way Home'). Bassist Andrew Potter laid waste to his guitar as the song came to a clattering climax and the band triumphantly fired a confetti cannon into the roaring crowd. Job well done. Singer Archie Smith's voice is so unique and their sound doesn't resemble anyone else on the local scene. Always good to hear as, often, young bands tend to sound like and copy their inspirations.
The night was a great success and I would suggest you grab a copy of the EP released through Tiny Lights Recording,as it is absolutely superb.
It was Halloween and the stage in The Cluny 2 was adorned with skulls. As I surveyed the crowd, there was some pretty good costumes, as Tissue Culture had offered cheaper entry to anyone in fancy dress.
First support of the evening was Reckoner. As a fan, I was excited to see the new lineup. Ex-Chased By Wolves drummer, Lewis Brett, was a new addition, as well as Steve Calder on harmonica, a new sound dimension that I was interested to hear. I was impressed with the new dynamic and it was great to see Calder getting really animated, along to Reckoner's raw, dirty bluesy sound. They finished with last single, Hope and Grace - a great tune.
Next on stage a band I'd only seen once before, Air to Achilles. As they launched into their first song, I was reminded how much I'd enjoyed them previously. Lots of loud guitar and drums, and some great keyboard and synth sounds, (of which I'm a sucker for). I found myself captivated by the drummer, who has to be one of the most interesting I've seen. His sticks just appeared to go far faster than normal human arms allow. I'd definitely recommend giving both of these bands a listen.
The time was now upon us. Tissue Culture took to the stage, suited and booted with faces painted and looking like extras from The Rocky Horror Show. They opened with Bleak Northern Beaches, and then went on to play Saint Waleric EP in order. For Safe, Safe, Safe and Satellites, they were joined by local singer/songwriter, Hannah D'Arcy, on accompanying vocals. The second half of the storming set featured a few older favourites and finished with brand new track (working title 'Way Home'). Bassist Andrew Potter laid waste to his guitar as the song came to a clattering climax and the band triumphantly fired a confetti cannon into the roaring crowd. Job well done. Singer Archie Smith's voice is so unique and their sound doesn't resemble anyone else on the local scene. Always good to hear as, often, young bands tend to sound like and copy their inspirations.
The night was a great success and I would suggest you grab a copy of the EP released through Tiny Lights Recording,as it is absolutely superb.
Monday, 15 October 2012
The Wooden Sky
Friday 12 October
I was so excited for this gig. The Wooden Sky had played at one of the first Old Friends Bookends nights a couple of years ago, during a spectacular snowstorm whiteout (not that it phased these Canadians). OF/B was kind of my introduction to the local music scene. Held in Independent, in Sunderland, every month or so the organisers would put on some great local musicians and a headliner from out of the area. Tonight was to see the end of an era as this was to be the last OF/B, as the old place was being demolished and moving to other premises. It was only fitting that The Wooden Sky should be playing for the last time at their 'second home' - Inde.
First to take the stage was singer/songwriter, Joe Banfi accompanied by Annie Rushworth on bass and backing vocals. He played a selection of his own songs and finished with a great track from his 'Iron' EP.
Next up was Matt Stalker and Fables. These guys were probably one of the first local bands that I started to follow. As Matt was one of the OF/B organisers, I thought it really nice that they had the opportunity to play one last time. I was really enjoying singing along to such great songs as Apostrophe Catastrophe and Barnacle to Bow, as were others in the crowd.
The next support, Evening Hymns, I felt would make an impact on the the attentive gathering. This band have been supporting The Wooden Sky on their European tour, and as I had seen them the previous evening at Hartlepool's Studio, I just knew the crowd were in for a treat, especially as The Wooden Sky formed part of the band on some of the songs. Singer/songwriter Jonas Bonnetta marries heartfelt words from life experiences, with beautifully crafted music. Inbetween he borrows the ear of all in the room as he tells tales behind the meanings of his songs. I was totally absorbed into the thrilling music and the harmonies of Jonas and Sylvie just had me rooted to the spot.
The Wooden Sky took to the stage like humble returning heroes. Usually a four piece, it was great to see the addition of violinist, Edwin Huizinga, as he hadn't played with them before in Sunderland. They opened with a track from their new album, Every Child a Daughter, Every Moon a Sun, then went on to play songs from previous albums, If I don't Come Home, You'll Know I'm Gone and When Lost At Sea, of which I definitely recommend you check out. Their unique combo of country tinged indie/folk is a refreshing change from traditional folk or indie music, and they do it so well. They finished with Something Hiding For Us in the Night. After cries of 'more', the band suggested everyone venture downstairs, to the garage, where they would play a couple of acoustic tracks. As everyone filed downstairs, Jonas and Gavin, guitars in hands, Ed with his violin and Andrew and Kip each carrying a drum, followed. They performed an Evening Hymn song followed by one of my favourite songs, Oh My God, which went down a storm with the crowd, who were clapping and singing along. It was a truly magical moment and I could see how thrilled the guys were at this. They went on to play one more song and then left to the sound of rapturous applause and cheering. I can honestly say that it is always an imense pleasure to see them play and the night has to go down as one of my top 5 favourites of the year.
I was so excited for this gig. The Wooden Sky had played at one of the first Old Friends Bookends nights a couple of years ago, during a spectacular snowstorm whiteout (not that it phased these Canadians). OF/B was kind of my introduction to the local music scene. Held in Independent, in Sunderland, every month or so the organisers would put on some great local musicians and a headliner from out of the area. Tonight was to see the end of an era as this was to be the last OF/B, as the old place was being demolished and moving to other premises. It was only fitting that The Wooden Sky should be playing for the last time at their 'second home' - Inde.
First to take the stage was singer/songwriter, Joe Banfi accompanied by Annie Rushworth on bass and backing vocals. He played a selection of his own songs and finished with a great track from his 'Iron' EP.
Next up was Matt Stalker and Fables. These guys were probably one of the first local bands that I started to follow. As Matt was one of the OF/B organisers, I thought it really nice that they had the opportunity to play one last time. I was really enjoying singing along to such great songs as Apostrophe Catastrophe and Barnacle to Bow, as were others in the crowd.
The next support, Evening Hymns, I felt would make an impact on the the attentive gathering. This band have been supporting The Wooden Sky on their European tour, and as I had seen them the previous evening at Hartlepool's Studio, I just knew the crowd were in for a treat, especially as The Wooden Sky formed part of the band on some of the songs. Singer/songwriter Jonas Bonnetta marries heartfelt words from life experiences, with beautifully crafted music. Inbetween he borrows the ear of all in the room as he tells tales behind the meanings of his songs. I was totally absorbed into the thrilling music and the harmonies of Jonas and Sylvie just had me rooted to the spot.
The Wooden Sky took to the stage like humble returning heroes. Usually a four piece, it was great to see the addition of violinist, Edwin Huizinga, as he hadn't played with them before in Sunderland. They opened with a track from their new album, Every Child a Daughter, Every Moon a Sun, then went on to play songs from previous albums, If I don't Come Home, You'll Know I'm Gone and When Lost At Sea, of which I definitely recommend you check out. Their unique combo of country tinged indie/folk is a refreshing change from traditional folk or indie music, and they do it so well. They finished with Something Hiding For Us in the Night. After cries of 'more', the band suggested everyone venture downstairs, to the garage, where they would play a couple of acoustic tracks. As everyone filed downstairs, Jonas and Gavin, guitars in hands, Ed with his violin and Andrew and Kip each carrying a drum, followed. They performed an Evening Hymn song followed by one of my favourite songs, Oh My God, which went down a storm with the crowd, who were clapping and singing along. It was a truly magical moment and I could see how thrilled the guys were at this. They went on to play one more song and then left to the sound of rapturous applause and cheering. I can honestly say that it is always an imense pleasure to see them play and the night has to go down as one of my top 5 favourites of the year.
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