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.
Sunday, 2 February 2014
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.
Monday, 20 August 2012
Matadors Gig At The Cluny 2
The first act up was one that I wasn't unfamiliar with, Newcastle five-piece Tissue Culture. Catchy opener 'Bleak Northern Beaches' went down well with the intimate crowd and set the pace for a storming set. These guys play LOUD, almost at odds with the singers unique, understated vocal which hints, ever so slightly, at Interpol's Paul Banks. This was the first time I'd seen them play with the new drummer and the onstage chemistry worked as well as ever, with great onstage presence for such a young band. At one point, and rather unseemingly, their riffing even recalled Thin Lizzy, a big plus for me, and something I wouldn't have associated them with! Finishing with a song called 'Jack', it was fairly evident that they were a deserved hit with those gathered.
Next on stage was Liverpool's Thomas McConnell. Flanked by additional bassist, keyboard player and seemily phantom drummer. Straight away I liked the look, (early Beatlesque). Although very 60's influenced, they were nothing like Beady Eye or such contrived bands (which I just don't get). The singers banter between songs was very Lennon-esque and some of his mannerisms were classic McCartney. I liked his tunes - short, catchy with a real good upbeat feel to them. One of the tracks remined me of the Bob Dylan's 'Subterranean Homesick Blues'. Will be keeping an eye out for him playing again.
Headliners, The Matadors, a four piece from Newcastle took to the stage to the strains of Gene Wilder's Willy Wonka and opened with a brooding slow burner reminiscent of House of The Rising Sun. I'm no stranger to this band as I've seen them as support on several occassions, so it was good to see them take the headline slot for a change. There are influences of late 60's, early 70's in their music with almost flamenco-esque guitar bat times, but the band have a very contemporary sound. For me the drums are the foundations on which the rest of the band are built, but it makes their sound really strong. Imagine The Animals meets Arctic Monkeys. Really worth checking out.
Next on stage was Liverpool's Thomas McConnell. Flanked by additional bassist, keyboard player and seemily phantom drummer. Straight away I liked the look, (early Beatlesque). Although very 60's influenced, they were nothing like Beady Eye or such contrived bands (which I just don't get). The singers banter between songs was very Lennon-esque and some of his mannerisms were classic McCartney. I liked his tunes - short, catchy with a real good upbeat feel to them. One of the tracks remined me of the Bob Dylan's 'Subterranean Homesick Blues'. Will be keeping an eye out for him playing again.
Headliners, The Matadors, a four piece from Newcastle took to the stage to the strains of Gene Wilder's Willy Wonka and opened with a brooding slow burner reminiscent of House of The Rising Sun. I'm no stranger to this band as I've seen them as support on several occassions, so it was good to see them take the headline slot for a change. There are influences of late 60's, early 70's in their music with almost flamenco-esque guitar bat times, but the band have a very contemporary sound. For me the drums are the foundations on which the rest of the band are built, but it makes their sound really strong. Imagine The Animals meets Arctic Monkeys. Really worth checking out.
Tuesday, 7 August 2012
Weekend Musical Extravaganza
Friday and, finished work, I was excited for the musical extravaganza of a weekend that lay ahead. First stop was Richmond Live, a small and friendly enough festival in a park on the river. Although I'd specifically travelled to see one of my favourite bands, headliners The Chapman Family I was pleased to catch fellow Tynesiders, Athletes in Paris' earlier set. The five piece (a kind of Little Comets meets Maximo Park meets Friendly Fires) moved energetically about the stage, the singers distinctive North East accent apparent in all songs. These guys are a great festival band and well worth catching live.
Although the clouds had looked threatening all evening, it was only when The Chapman Family took to the stage that the heavens opened. Black-clad singer Kingsley, who had dispensed with the ruffles in favour of a Pop Sex Ltd t-shirt had predicted (and possibly hoped for) as much. This was the first time that I'd seen the band play a big stage and, looking more than comfortable, it was obvious that this is where they belong. Tracks from new EP 'Cruel Britannia', firm favourites from album 'Burn Your Town' and the odd new tune were all delivered masterfully. As some of the young crowd surged forward a select few danced around in the rain, mostly oblivious to the band, but transfixed by a flying glowstick.
Sunday saw a trip to Stockton Weekender. Unable to go on both days, I was determined to get there early and took my place on (not at) the bar, as Goy Boy McIlroy were setting up on the smaller Vela stage. From the off, I knew they were going to be my kind of thing. The frontman-posessed jumped from the stage, scaled speakers and rolled the floor, all the while his amazing vocals unfaltering, bearing an uncanny sonic resemblance to one of my musical heroes, Jim Morrison of The Doors. I noticed quite a crowd that had gathered, some definitely firm followers. Throughout the day, favourites of mine, Hyde & Beast and Symphonic Pictures impressed as always. As did local lads Weird Shapes. Not so, though, The Milk and Ocean Colour Scene who left me rather cold on a hot summer's day. But headliner's James played to an enthusiastic and appreciative crowd, myself included and ended the weekend on a real high. I must thank Kingsley Chapman for recommending Goy Boy McIlroy to me, as they made the whole Stockton experience one I will not forget. But don't take my word for it, check them out live and thank me later!
Although the clouds had looked threatening all evening, it was only when The Chapman Family took to the stage that the heavens opened. Black-clad singer Kingsley, who had dispensed with the ruffles in favour of a Pop Sex Ltd t-shirt had predicted (and possibly hoped for) as much. This was the first time that I'd seen the band play a big stage and, looking more than comfortable, it was obvious that this is where they belong. Tracks from new EP 'Cruel Britannia', firm favourites from album 'Burn Your Town' and the odd new tune were all delivered masterfully. As some of the young crowd surged forward a select few danced around in the rain, mostly oblivious to the band, but transfixed by a flying glowstick.
Sunday saw a trip to Stockton Weekender. Unable to go on both days, I was determined to get there early and took my place on (not at) the bar, as Goy Boy McIlroy were setting up on the smaller Vela stage. From the off, I knew they were going to be my kind of thing. The frontman-posessed jumped from the stage, scaled speakers and rolled the floor, all the while his amazing vocals unfaltering, bearing an uncanny sonic resemblance to one of my musical heroes, Jim Morrison of The Doors. I noticed quite a crowd that had gathered, some definitely firm followers. Throughout the day, favourites of mine, Hyde & Beast and Symphonic Pictures impressed as always. As did local lads Weird Shapes. Not so, though, The Milk and Ocean Colour Scene who left me rather cold on a hot summer's day. But headliner's James played to an enthusiastic and appreciative crowd, myself included and ended the weekend on a real high. I must thank Kingsley Chapman for recommending Goy Boy McIlroy to me, as they made the whole Stockton experience one I will not forget. But don't take my word for it, check them out live and thank me later!
Sunday, 29 July 2012
Sound of Guns at Kendal Calling
Having previously caught Sound of Guns playing a Warehouse at the small (but perfectly formed) Cult Festival in Newcastle, I couldn't wait to see the Liverpool lads grace a 'proper' festival stage. There was already a good crowd forming in the tent a good 20 minutes before the band were due onstage. The ground seemed excessively muddy - a bit odd (and a bit suspect) as it was inside and hadn't rained. Let's hope it was just beer spillage eh? Usually I would take my place at the front of the stage, but decided to stand at the side on dryer ground. Opening with the first two tracks from new album, 'Angels and Enemies' the now-swollen, and appreciative, crowd chanted the band's name on repeat as the energetic frontman jumped down from the high stage and climbed the barrier, where he was held up by those gathered down the front. He offered out the mic and the crowd sang along with gusto. Once back onstage he picked up his acoustic guitar, launching into 'Backs of Butterflies', my favourite song from the first album.
This was the best crowd I'd ever witnessed at a SoG gig. Surveying the scene, it was obvious that people were really enjoying themselves and well into the performance. After more songs from the new album, older favourite 'Architect' had the faithful in a frenzy, punching the air with fists to the driving, primal beat. For the finale, singer Andy Metcalf (a true showman) scaled the speaker tower, much to the delight of the crowd. Sound of Guns are very possibly my favourite act. To catch them live is an exciting and exhilarating experience, and the heart and soul of the band is evident in the quality of every performance.
This was the best crowd I'd ever witnessed at a SoG gig. Surveying the scene, it was obvious that people were really enjoying themselves and well into the performance. After more songs from the new album, older favourite 'Architect' had the faithful in a frenzy, punching the air with fists to the driving, primal beat. For the finale, singer Andy Metcalf (a true showman) scaled the speaker tower, much to the delight of the crowd. Sound of Guns are very possibly my favourite act. To catch them live is an exciting and exhilarating experience, and the heart and soul of the band is evident in the quality of every performance.
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