2014

Mytacism Music has now been a thing for a whole 5 months now! So, to celebrate both this and the coming of a new year, I thought we should have a quick look at the best artists we have featured over this period.

10 - To kick things off we have Barry & Liebe. The duo create perfect acoustic melodies filled with emotion and passion which have the ability to relax and soothe. 

9 - Next up is the energetic ska group Smiling Ivy. This is a band with the shocking ability to make anything sound good and lively.

8 - Dinosaur Crush have snagged 8th with their raucous, irresistible tunes which could start out a rock session anywhere.

7 - Now we have Hazels, the raw rock infused group who recently released 'This Ain't A Game', a song filled with persistent beats and vocals sounding like Franz Ferdinand.

6 - We are now graced with the presence of Deaf Poets, a band from Miami who produce deep, layered songs in their album '4150'

  

5 -  Marking the halfway point is The Everglows, a band constantly producing new fuzzy, 60's infused tracks which you can't help but fall in love with.

4 - Recently reviewed band The Vickers takes 4th with their kaleidoscopic album 'Ghosts'. 

3 - A band full of talent is 3rd, Empire Affair, a band boasting infectious indie melodies in their EP 'Pangs'

2 - Today's Man very nearly came first with their insane psych/pop self-titled album, overflowing with electro, psychedelic, rock and pop sounds.

1 - Just stealing it from the previous band is Zibra, who easily deserve the spot of the best band on the site this year. They are simply irresistible with mind bending videos and drug like tunes.  

Emily (@emiemzy) 

The Jacarandas

Since The Jacarandas share their name with a species of flower and a 4 star hotel, it seems they decided to mix both elements, forming a brilliant band who make music as good sounding as the flower looks.
The only song present on their Soundcloud page is 'Watergun' a song bursting with a typical light, indie feel: the vocals are a dream, the beat has the perfect tempo and guitar melodies giving out of a ray of tinted sunshine. If this song was a picture it would be rose tinted featuring a beach, ice cream, smiles and the typical English rain failing yet again to dampen a good holiday.

Tour dates:

The Roadmender, Northampton - Saturday 24th January 2015

The Bulls Head, Birmingham - Thursday 29th January 2015

The Castle Hotel, Manchester - Sunday 15th February 2015

Stay up to date with The Jacarandas:
Twitter
Facebook
Soundcloud

Emily (@emiemzy)

Peur

Peur's recent release 'Explosions' demonstrates the band's love for post rock and hardcore bands while effortlessly expressing their ability to play. The band is made up of Joe Lomax, Ryan Greenhalgh and Sam Tempest and the threesome create some unbelievable sounds.

'Explosions' opens with some vigorous riffs and a thumping beat, immediately getting your heart rate up for the thrilling trip awaiting. This track is intense but the clear cut vocals ensures that it isn't too excessive. When the vocals first kick in they sound too light in comparison to the melodies being produced but it soon evens out and slot together to form a cohesive sound. Also, the pregnant pause keeps you on the edge of your seat waiting for the rest of the song to commence and the band is able to wrap your ears round their little finger, regardless your willingness. Now while this is not what Tenacious D would call the 'The Best Song In The World', it does have a certain flair to it thats hard to miss. 

Like the band on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

Emily, (@emiemzy) 

The Black Delta Movement

Does everyone remember the post I did on The Black Delta Movement a while ago? Well I hope so since I've got another track to show you (if you haven't seen the post you can see it here). Firstly, I'd like to apologise about how late this is going up, it was supposed to be done in October but things got in the way, but better late than never hey? Well it is especially in this case since 'The Trip' is a good one and you really need to hear it.

Like their other stuff  'The Trip' sounds very raw and akin to authentic rock, immediately transporting you back to the golden age with bands such as Led Zep and The Doors. The song has been deftly recreated and is almost too good to be true with electric riffs which come alive, beats which clasp everything together beautifully and the vocals shimmering in front of you. I do have one problem with this track though, it sounds to similar to Kim Fowley's original. I feel as though the band need to explore their own sound more and develop more of their own personal emotion within the song. I would really love to see this band let go of the support that the cover holds and freefall into their own sound, I believe this band would have a lot to flaunt if they did.

You can follow the band on Twitter or like their Facebook page.

em, (@emiemzy)

The Everglows

With christmas fast approaching, I think it is necessary to blast the much loved christmas tunes once again. However, year after year the same tracks do get drab and repetitive so the odd cover will always add an extra lift to the famed tunes. So, as if by magic, The Everglows have provided the service this year with an excellent cover of 'Walking In The Air'. You may have seen our previous post on the band and may be aware of their fuzzy sound which makes them, well, them. It is with great pleasure that I can tell you that they have not left that behind for christmas and that it is ever present in the new release.

Now, do not be deterred by the song choice, The Everglows have completely nailed it. Well, for me anyway. They have changed the christmas classic from a choir boy symphony to a fuzzy rock tune, capable of being one to jam to. Not only does this allow the festive season to gain a harder feel through a new rock cover, bit it also allows you look uber cool while getting seriously festive. I especially love it because it sounds very similar yet completely different to the original all at the same time.The band have really taken the track and made their own while hanging on to what makes 'Walking In The Air' so special in the first place. I mean, this is what doing covers is all about, right?

You can follow the band on Twitter, like their Facebook page or check out their Bandcamp page.

em, (@emiemzy)

The Vickers

Italian band The Vickers have recently released their airy new LP 'Ghosts'. It is seemingly kaleidoscopic but it has entangled other elements which really highlight them as one to watch.

The album opens with 'Shes lost', a dreamy, light song which is easy on the senses. Its appealing through its incandescent allure; high-pitched notes plucked from the heart and soothing lyrics which bolt icy shivers down your spine alerting you to the power their notes are holding. A different feeling is achieved in the second track 'I Don't Know What It Is' through a sort of hippie feel. You know when you just feel pure elation through music and it feels like it can't possibly be real, well this is it. The psychedelic tones are the main structure for the feeling but the voice, oh the voice. It becomes real and wraps its arms around you, holding you tightly. The slowing of the waves of melodies in the centre of the song is sort of like a breather, almost as if the band were expecting you to become detached from reality and they left some time for you to remember your place in life.

'Senseless Life' gives this exact image. You start to feel the senselessness of the band, not in the way they make music but it is more as if a detachment to reality. The band themselves have begun to fall into their own rabbit hole which they've created. 'It Keeps Going On and On' is slightly darker with the guitar sounding almost Western, each note plunging, taking the remaining instruments briefly with it. The vocals also have become tinted, the drums more thrashy and we see a somber side to the gang.

'All I Need' is a bit like Kasabian's Velociraptor. The song is the sound version of an optical illusion, repetitive melodies warping around you, vibrating your skin and making your hair stand on end. 'Hear Me Now' continues the maddening melodies yet the voice sounds completely different in this track. It sounds lighter and slightly electric, as though energy is running through it. Although it probably is,the band has demonstrated some serious ability and power, I wouldn't surprised if his voice did have its own electric current.

'Inside a Dream' opens with very dreamy vocals. The music goes hand in hand with it, the melodies seem as though they're not sure who they are or who to be. They want to be hard and outspoken yet they want to dreamy and luscious. The two factors create a twisted composition which you feel obliged to listen to. 'Walking On a Rope' is the keeper of polychromatic melodies, kaleidoscopic verses and just a tint of hallucination. Its an odd beauty this track holds but it is a very defined one.

'Total War' slows the whole album down with lethargic beats and melancholy vocals yet as the warped tune gently speeds up you are able to feel a sense of greatness about this track which gradually captures your breath and locks it away. This would have been a killer track to leave it but it seems the band have more juice to pump out in 'Ghosts'. It begins otherworldly with foreign noises taking the soundscape but the chugging beat again takes centre stage and a distorted song strolls along and takes your mind with it. It might not have been the best track to leave on when there were better available but it definitely does leave you with a good feeling.

Like the band on Facebook, follow their Twitter or check out their Bandcamp.

em, (@emiemzy)

Zibra

Zibra. Weird name, I know, yet weird is mostly positive and, in this case, it is. The band consists of four guys who love to play around with green screens, VHS tapes and electronic devices which create their glitchy, synth sounds. Sam Battle, Russi Harley, Ben Everest and Ross Dawson produce these sparking pop songs that are accompanied by the coolest pictures and videos. Their debut release 'Heartache' has been long awaited but it has definitely been worth it.

The song is like an infection, you literally can't get it out of your head, whether its the catchy lyrics or the irresistible melodies, it will take over until you find a song of lesser value to take its place. 'Heartache' was conceived through a mixture of instruments and synths matched with alluring lyrics. There is also a strange mix of shouts and gun noises too adding to the air of unknown that surrounds the band like a bubble. The video to the song is slightly mind bending with a rotating heart leaking gunk and the constant cloud of green yet it captures that curious nature we all hold.

Also, yesterday Zibra released a cover of Tomcraft's 'Loneliness'. This is another killer track and is accompanied by yet another mind bending video.

So, if there is one thing you do today, make it the discovery of something exceptional (a.k.a Zibra).

Follow the band on Twitter, Instagram and Soundcloud or like their Facebook page.

em,

Today's Man

Following my brief hiatus I have decided to bring you a brilliant band with a brilliant self-titled album: Today's Man. The duo amazingly comprise of an astronomy professor and a hotel worker, not the sort of people you'd expect to get an unbelievable album like this from yet Edmund Douglass and Neil Hoage have achieved it. The duo's music definitely has a psyche/pop location yet the album displays hints of different genres. Its as if the duo have decided to use this album to explore sound so they can decide which genre to snuggle down in later.

Track number one: 'Whipporwill'. This track oozes psyche sounds, sounding entirely like the stuff dreams are made of. The sound is almost breath-taking. Its unnatural whining and echoing voices take over your mind while the haunting melodies float around afterwards. This is followed by slightly faster track: 'Dissolved in Blue'. It might not be as mind bending as the previous song yet it is still enchanting. The song feels like a journey, its melodies taking you somewhere else. Where I hear you ask? Only you can know.

After a fade in, a song with a New Order feel to it drifts into your ears. 'Have You Been' features electro and other synth sounds while during the chorus a very Morrissey voice joins in. This song sounds like a mix between both artists and has ended up beautifully. The next song begins to change its feel slightly, a harder sound takes over from slightly mellower melodies. 'New Age Defector' does sound very new age, and does give a reminiscent feel of Echo Beach by Martha and the Muffins.

'The New Unknown' is is strangely addictive, it begins with rumbling drum beats and the same ghostly voice. The song is split in the middle, making it like two songs rather than one, both halves with different tempos yet still holding the mystical ability to send shivers down your spine.

More electro follows with 'Coming 'Round', the song has developed a strange 3D effect with echoing synth and electronic noises while a strumming guitar grounds the melody. 'Crystal Crystal' has grown a contrasting pop feel with a hypnotising melody which never fails to hit the perfect note to make you feel good.


The final track, 'A Cordial Affair' begins with slower, deeper notes before quickening to a thin tune consisting of contrasting shocking notes sounding as if they are fighting to be heard. The result is a mesmerizing tune which finishes the album beautifully.

I only have praise for this magnificent album.

You can download the album off Soundcloud and stream it here.

em,

Dinosaur Crush

Having met at university in Reading, Dinosaur Crush is a 5-piece band comprising of Kat Hooper (vocals), Matt Davis (rhythm guitar), Ben Fox (lead guitar), Sam Arbon (bass guitar) and Chris Taylor (drums). Having been influence by a wide range of musicians including Green Day, Foo Fighters, Placebo and The Subways, the band compose songs, which, to be frank, kick ass. They are fast vibrating tracks supported by a killer voice which rivals that of Hayley Williams. What's not to love?


Their debut track,'Noise', flaunts all of the bands abilities well. The singing? Strong. The melodies? Infectious. And riffs? Rocking. If you unpick the threads of the tune you begin to hear elements of The Subways in the main body of the song and older bands such as The Stones in their riffs. It's a brilliant song and I have absolutely no idea why they aren't signed as they are expressing some emotion through music that could be compared to that shown in the 60's rock bands.  


Keep up with Dinosaur Crush:
Twitter
Facebook page
Bandcamp

Emily (@emiemzy)

Ahuizotl

Ahuizotl (au-wi-zot-l) is a German indie rock band comprising of Barry Langer (guitar and vocals), Christof Schulte (drums), Stefan Ebbers (bass), Felix Hedderich (keyboards). The band have been working on their new album 'Integrity Is Overrated'  which is released today.

The album opens with a vibrating electronic space sound, a repeated strum accompanied by another quick, constant strum stirring in the background. As soon as the raspy voice kicks in you realise that the album has an air of promise, thoroughly proven in 'Ghosts of Departed Quantities'. 'Movie' follows, opening with isolated guitar notes and then bouncing drums along with what sounds like a sincere chorus. 'Everybody's Breaking Up So Why Don't We' is a song tinged with sorrow and an air of an uncommitted attitude. The attitude is thoroughly shown within the song through the laid back melodies that seem to just be a flow of emotion.
'Slide' shows a slide in genre. The tones of the track are softer and gentle, revealing a different edge to the band. 'I Wanna Be Ignored', a track which squeezes out the bands juices as a light buzz backs the songs giving you a feeling like that of the lightheadedness when drunk and an interesting instrumental is full of a symphony of different notes form different instruments. The song loiters a bit near the end, as if it doesn't want to end but this could possibly be the best track on the album.


'Perfect Day' holds an echoing techno noise which changes the shape of the song; 'Go Away From Under My Cloud', while sounding like the Rolling Stones song, holds contrasting drum beats that holds your attention; 'Self Made' and 'Nice' both share the same staple sounds. These four tracks are where you can see the bands youth, however, it wouldn't take much effort to improve them to meet the standards they have created through their other tracks.
The album finishes with 'Decadence Will Save Us All', a song which comes in waves, a calming finale to a recherché album.

Keep up with Ahuizotl:
Twitter
Facebook
Bandcamp

Emily, (@emiemzy)

Perma F

Perma F are a Swedish duo comprising of Leif and Birgitta Ekman. They have released their 6th single over the past few weeks following their March single and their debut album which came out last year.

Their single release includes two songs; 'Burning Angel' and 'One Way Ticket'.

Blondie fans really need to take notice of the first track. The vocals of 'Burning Angel' are freakishly akin to the voice of Debbie Harry's. The track also features lighter synth sounds which accompany a thrashing drum beat. This is not any drum beat though, it is the sort of drum beat that, when focused on, increases your heart rate and fills your veins with power and energy making you feel invincible.

'One Way Ticket' boasts a very different sound which is obvious from the beginning. The vocals are slightly warped, the melodies akin to an Egyptian dream and, while a contrast is obvious, there are still similarities to the first song. The fast paced tempo breathes energy into the notes and there are still synth-like sounds which give an aroma of 70's new wave.



Keep up with Perma F:
Facebook
Twitter.
Bandcamp
iTunes.

Emily, (@emiemzy)

Smiling Ivy

Smiling Ivy are 5 piece band from Sheffield. I would like to describe their sound to you yet I can't. It is definitely ska yet they are diverse; they mix up several genres effortlessly and continuously inject fun and fast paced feeling into every track. I can only describe as contagious, you say 'oh, its not my type of music' but I can assure you that you will love it.

Their album, Quick Sin Jukebox, kicks off with 'Lab Rats' which immediately reminds you of Madness, a track dominated with sax, jazzy and groovy sounds and the ascending and descending vocal notes create a lively sound. 'Free Ride' doesn't lose any of these things as the infectious sound and lyrics of the song take over your mind.

 'Offshore' is next to greet your ears, it boasts a fast, dancey tempo and an unmistakable hint reggae. This is not the only reggae appearance on the album, 'Spent' alludes to this genre with it's plodding beat and auspicious notes of saxaphone along with 'Wrong Side' where it begins with reggae tones and evens out into a fast yet casual drumming interval. In this track, the female voice also adds another dimension to the song, a factor you wouldn't expect it to work yet it does amazingly. 

'Let Loose' does exactly what it says on the tin, an electric whining guitar pulls it near to rock. Its lyrics, its saxaphone and its being forces you to dance and move and allows you to really 'let loose'. 'Trick or Treat', just the title of this song makes me happy reminding me of halloween. The song has a simple, running beat which mostly dominates the track. 'Private Dreams and Public Nightmares' feels like a dream, it contains a pre-recorded voice and flaunts a jazzy, sluggish beat.

'Blissfully Blind' has a rap and Caribbean feel to it while being very instrumental based. It also hosts a violin piece which makes it slightly more serious than their other songs without being too pretentious about it. 'Phenomenon' discusses reality TV with a contagious beat and the raspy voice which has become a staple of their songs by this point in the album. The final track, 'Back in '04', is the most interesting track of the album through their lyrics, it tells the story of the bands past and how they got to where they are today. It takes guts for a band to make a song about themselves but the band have such a quirky story, it would be stupid not to tell it, plus, it is the perfect end to a phenomenal debut album.

You can follow the band on Twitter and like their Facebook page.
You can get their album on Bandcamp, iTunes and Amazon.

em, (@emiemzy)

The Black Delta Movement

The Black Delta Movement are a four piece band from Hull comprising of Matt Burr (6 and 12 string guitar and vocals), Dom Abbott (guitar and vocals), Jack Brown (drums) and Liam Kerman (bass). The band boasts a sound similar to Kasabian, dark and slightly psychedelic while rich in rock sounds.

The two songs I've managed to get my dirty little fingers on are 'The Messenger' and 'Ivory Shakes', two songs which both express the ability and beauty of the band.

'The Messenger' hosts the perfect stomping beat to get your emotions, and energy, out on. The band has also managed to include perfect guitar sounds, a vibrating, echoing jangle of stringed noise. As the track builds momentum, it becomes a song which picks up your spirits and throws them higher than a song should be able to, a song which makes you heart balloon with excitement and elation, I'm not sure what happened to make the song so good but it is the sort of thing you play loud and proud.

'Ivory Shakes' features stumbling riffs which crash over a bold beat, dominant vocals which ends up repeating in your head and the perfect crescendo of notes. While the lyrics "She knows where she'd rather be" make you wonder where you would rather be, I can definitely say I'd rather stay and listen to their music for a little while longer.


You can follow the bands Twitter, like their Facebook page or check out their shop.

em, (@emiemzy)

Hazels

Hazels are a fairly new 5 piece band from Durham comprising of James Gibbons, Robbie O'Neill, Peter Lavery, Tomo Errington and Matthew Duffy. The band was born after jamming in a greenhouse of all places and has gained a sturdy following, with good reason too, Hazels boast a constant appearance of tracks you sink your teeth into; authentic and original songs and infectious, fast tunes you want to listen to over and over again.


'This Ain't A Game' contains a compact, persistent beat with no fault, one which will infect your mind and leave a reminder of the song there for a day or two. The song is competitive and the melody barely slows, in fact it mostly changes as it quickens for the chorus. Vocals, think Franz Ferdinand, think rockabilly, they sound like they've had years of experiance but have only had a little, this can only be interpreted as a sign this band has infinite success awaiting them in the future.

You can like the band's Facebook page, follow them on Twitter or follow their Soundcloud and keep up with all their brilliant new stuff.

em, (@emiemzy)

Deaf Poets

Deaf Poets are a Miami based duo who are blessed with some real talent, especially considering the band was formed as a way of killing time. The duo consist of Nico Espinosa (vocals/drums) and Sean Wouters (vocals/guitar) who, regardless of their small numbers, create a sound which blows you away with its depth.

Their most recent album, '4150', features some pretty amazing sounds, starting off with the first track 'Fly', a rebellious, fast paced track with strong vocals. 'Fly' is something you can really get your teeth into, and, while giving you a taste of what is to come in the album, it gives you something to get your rock spirit going. 
'Pale Skin' opens with showdown riffs, very similar to the Arctic Monkeys and carries on with a slow, waltz like chorus. 
Then the album moves onto 'Had Me Waiting', a song that boasts a more dirty rock feel compared to the previous tracks and the riffs are very similar to some Black Keys tracks. 
'Can't Breathe' contains scratchy vocals, a powerful crescendo of notes and just overall energetic vibes. It is a definite song to rock out to and lift your spirits. 
'This Pain' sounds alot like a Kings Of Leon track, especially in the vocals. It's quick beats fly by, sweep you up and drown you in an edenic flush of strength giving sound. 
A slower track follows called 'Cold Cold Thieves'. In this track you really start to see the softer side to the duo through smoother vocals, gentler beats and subdued guitar notes. This is not to say this track has lost its rock feel though, somehow Deaf Poets have managed to deftly show their gentle side while continuing to boast their defined wild sound. 
'Degenerate Mind' goes on to continue the agile pace in the album. The song is full of 'ah-ah-ah's and lyrics which make you want to shout them out loud. The repetitive nature of the song also means it will get stuck in your head for awhile but who's to say its a bad thing when it comes from a band like this? 
'Sunlight Sunset' is another one of the bands slower songs, it features synth sounds, staggered beats and laid-back vocals while 'Sally' flaunts a slow, loud beat accompanied with killer riffs, creating a strange ominous feel, a more 'show-off'y track from the band.
'Little Red Wagon' is a slightly more grungy track with similar vocal sounds to 'Can't Breathe', the song is mostly instrumental with repetitive infectious lyrics you learn within seconds.
 The album ends with song that, if sung live, would force lighters (or phones) up in the air as a crowd becomes one and sways in time to the notes. 'Make Believe' is a track with a slow plodding beat and fuzzy calm vocals which voice words of deep feeling.
Just listen to the album. It will become a new favourite.

You can follow the band on Twitter, like their Facebook page or check out their Soundcoud where you can listen to the album.

em, (@emiemzy)

The Everglows

The Everglows are a three piece band hailing from East London comprising of Andy Smith (guitar/vocals), Ray Brodrick (drums) and Steve Perkins (bass). The band have been influenced by sounds such as the 60's Mod, psychedelia and Britpop which is obvious when listening to some of their music.

One of the songs that has been recently added to their song book is 'Sugary Sun', a lively, fast paced track. With a rapid beat that never seems to stop and fuzzy guitar and vocal notes, 'Suary Sun' is a song you should take note of as it radiates groove and good vibes. The only downside to this track is the length, the experiance of the song is over within two and a half minutes.

Another track to listen to is 'That Other Girl', a slightly slower, clearer song. This track boasts repetitive and infectious guitar riffs and powerful vocals that proves the emotion in this song.

You can follow the band on Twitter, like their Facebook page or check out their YouTube channel for all of the bands updates and new music.
You can listen to their music on Soundcloud or visit their Bandcamp page.

em, (@emiemzy)

Jet Black Sunrise

Formed in 2009, Jet Black Sunrise are a five piece indie pop/rock band comprising of Matt Cronin (vocals, keys), Nick Fede (vocals, guitar), Jay Schneider (vocals, bass), Matt Smith (vocals, guitar) and JC Zwisler (vocals, drums). They have have previously released an LP and an EP and have recently released a second EP titled 'Departures'.

The EP opens with a track named 'In Flight', a graceful beginning track which features light piano notes that build up to a powerful vocal and musical crescendo. The remaining minutes of the track boast a robust riff and raw vocals while the electric notes of a guitar gives it a prominent rock feel.

The second track, 'Rockview', contains gentler acoustic guitar notes which take centre stage throughout the song. The chorus is one to jam out to while the stunning guitar instrumental injects shots of colour into the song.

'Granite' has a very rhythmic beginning that is accompanied by echoing guitar notes. I feel that 'Granite' has a very winter feel, not because of the mention of snow but because it is the sort of song you imagine yourself listening to while sat by the fire as the skeleton like trees watch from the window.

'Gone' is akin to a slow lullaby presenting melodic, genial acoustic notes, while 'Run Away' encompasses a strength-giving beat, lyrics which hold your heart still and a climatic ending that shoots warmth through your veins.

You can buy the EP on Bandcamp or you can listen to it on their website.

You can also follow the band on Twitter or like their Facebook page.

em, (@emiemzy)

Cats Park

Cats Park are a Russian band from St Petersburg comprising of 5 members; Alex Andreev (bass, keys), Faijee (vocals), Roman Shatohin (guitar), Alexander Alekseev (keys) and Yuri Andreev (drums). Formed in 2001, the band have already released an EP - 'Your Love Is A Sin' and have now released an album 'A Taste Of Heaven' which is mostly described as 'down-tempo rock'. 

The track first track, 'In Between', features delicate yet compelling vocals and a slow industrial beat which adds a slight somber feel to the track. It throws you into their frequent relaxed cadence genre. Up next is 'In My Room', a melody with a slow tempo making it a track to wind down to as voice caresses your ears, soothes your brain calms your worries while the gentle notes place a placid smile on your face. Then onto 'Back To Heaven' which boasts a faster tempo while Faijee repeats the lyrics 'How do you know', causing them to flick off your tongue the second time you hear the track played. 'When Someone Loves You' could almost be described as a dance track with a quicker, continual beat. After the chorus of this track has an ascent of string notes adds a thickness to the track, not letting any possible sound not be created. 'Precious Days' shows a more sophisticated side to the band while 'Prisoners of Heartbreak' explores more electronic, synth sounds. Next comes 'Thin Skinned', a song which has a hint of early Placebo in. The melodies in the track are very varied, swapping between a slightly industrial sound to a solemn, harmonising chorus. The penultimate track, 'Plastic World' features the same soulful vocals as shown throughout the album and a dizzying riff adding a 'rock' feel. The album ends with 'I Can't Wait', a tender song with a climatic and fulfilling ending. 

You can buy the album here, or visit their Soundcloud.
You can follow the band on Twitter, Facebook or check out their Youtube.

em, (@emiemzy)

Empire Affair

Empire Affair was formed in Bournemouth during 2011 and consists of Neil Tallant (vocals), Jack Woolston (guitar), Matt Park (guitar and keys), Tom Parrett (bass) and Darren Sheppard (drums).  Empire Affair’s 3rd EP ‘Pangs’ was released on September the 5th and presents a fast paced indie pop feel.


The first track on the EP is 'Press Reset', a song featuring an unruly chant, harmonious lyrics and a killer beat, it raises your heart rate while building an atmosphere which the rest of the EP continues to sustain. 'Press Reset' is the sort of track that would open the set of an  phenomenal  live  performance from the boys.


Following that is 'Don't Let Me Down' which opens with a stomping beat, melodic vocals and shows the bands rockier side while mixing their staple pop feel with canorous 'ooo's. This is the tune that would get your feet moving and body dancing as the full power of this song builds up after a brief slowing of the beats.

'DNA Code' is the third song and possibly my favourite. The chorus is contagious as Tallant belt's out passionate lyrics which immediately start to circle your mind. The track has an almost soothing but upbeat electronic synth note accompanying a large majority of the song, adding a thicker feel to the song that bombards the mind with plenty of sounds to savour. 

'Forest Beyond The Tree's' is a slightly more gentle track in comparison to the rest of the EP, featuring more pop sounds and light cooing vocals. However, just because it has a gentler effect doesn't mean it has lost its atmospheric, infectious qualities which appear throughout the EP. 

The EP finishes with 'End of Disco', a climatic track with strong vocals and slow, drifting air that builds up to powerful musical release before fading out, the band has definitely finished the EP with something to talk about. 


You can either buy the album of Amazon or iTunes.
You can follow the band on Twitter, Facebook or check out their Youtube channel.

em, (@emiemzy)

Barry & Liebe

Barry & Liebe are a two piece acoustic band from Co. Monaghan and they have recently released their delicate and alluring debut EP Mariposa. While playing wedding music for the past few years, the pair have a wide range of ability with a range of instruments which include the piano, organ, 6 & 12 string guitar and different whistles which all give their songs a compelling sound.

The first track on the EP is 'Dear Beautiful Dreamer', a heartfelt dedication to a close friend who has passed away. The melody is made up of more basic components, featuring mainly a piano, guitar and violin, which allows you to focus on the strong, canorous voice of Liebe. 'Dear Beautiful Dreamer' was also the song which induced the creation of the EP after a fellow musician told them to get it recorded at an open mic night.

'You Know What' is the second track and it is also my favourite. It's a rhythmical song which gives off a powerful flow of emotion while the tinkling piano interlude gives it a softer, classic feel. Somehow the band has mixed the classical piano with folk to create an irresistible melody.

The last two tracks on the EP are 'Reveal' and 'Wonder Why'. 'Reveal', a mainly vocal song, is a very raw, passionate composition with a calming, surging music backing. 'Wonder Why' is about 'the one that got away'. The track has gentle melodies and vocals which create a caressing sound, almost as if they are calming the upset over the one that got away.

You can listen to most of the EP on Soundcloud here.

This EP is definitely one to invest in while the band is certainly one to keep an eye on.
If you want to buy the EP, you can do so here.
The bands Twitter is @BarryLiebeMusic and you can find a link to their Facebook age here.

em, (@emiemzy)

Single of the Week: “Human Sadness” by Julian Casablancas + the Voidz

This past week, Julian Casablancas + the Voidz dropped “Human Sadness”, the first single off of their upcoming album Tyranny. The almost eleven minute track features haunting melodies and heartfelt lyrics sung in Casablancas’ dreamy baritone. “‘Beyond all ideas of right and wrong, there is a field. I will be meeting you there,’” quotes Casablancas from philosopher Rumi.

Read the full lyrics here.

While decidedly long (though undoubtedly shorter than The Velvet Underground’s “Sister Ray”), “Human Sadness” is a perfect balance of whining guitars, mesmerizing vocals, and Nintendo sounds. I have taken to listening to it on repeat for hours at a time, fascinated not only by the beautiful music, but also by the length of the song itself and how it plays so elegantly without sounding like one would expect an eleven minute song to sound: like a big, messy, unnecessary run-on sentence. No, this song’s predominantly legato style exudes a feeling of bliss. If it is any indication of those songs to come on the new album, I recommend pre ordering now.

“Human Sadness” is available for purchase on the iTunes store as well as on Amazon, etc. The best deal, however, can be found directly on the Cult Records site where the song is only $0.59.

Rock,
s.j.c     (@mandidwehavefun)

Jep Roadie 'Jam Jam'

"If it wasn't for the ability to create hope through my music, I wouldn't be able to cope. I can only do what I feel. Nothing is ever given, that is why people take. When nothing is appreciated, people forget. When nothing is done, nothing changes. We are going to be the change. Time is running out, so are my patience. My n*gga died this year, he was going to be on the tour bus with me, he knew music, he was one of the realest people I will ever meet. Don't drink and drive. You won't be around to realize your impact on your surroundings." 

Jep Rodie, an American rapper, has released a new single; 'Jam Jam'. The song has a very personal feel with the rap sounding more like spoken word, making the song more original. 'Jam Jam' also has a slow beat making it sound a lot more serious, reiterating the rappers messages in the song. It's definitely a song to check out and can listen/download it here.

You can also follow Jep Roadie on twitter - @IamJproD

Emily, (@emiemzy)

King Charles

While at Reading Festival this year I was surrounded by loads of amazing bands that I'd never heard of and so, after kicking myself over not of knowing these bands, I descended on YouTube, armed with a list of new acts to listen to. One of the names on this list was King Charles. 

King Charles is 29 year old singer/songwriter from London who produces joyous tunes filled with energy and emotion. He may appear and sound like an eccentric man but, believe me, his music will pump your veins with so much happiness and pure fun you won't even care. I just can't believe I haven't heard of him before.

His debut album LoveBlood was released in 2012 and features some of my new favourite songs which I can't get out of my head. 

'Bam Bam' is a song featuring beats which seriously get your feet tapping and lyrics which get in your head and force you to shout at the top of your voice when you hear the song for a second time.

Another seriously catchy song from the man of wonder is 'Love Lust'. The beginning of the song is a tune of a piano and his caressing voice, making you feel warm all over. About a minute and half into the song a fuller sound begins when an electric guitar breaks the harmonies and creates a more energetic and happy atmosphere to the song, making it hard to resist listening to.

 The final song I'm going to babble about is 'Mississippi Isabel'. When you listen to the lyrics of the song you begin to feel sorry for him as he describes how Mississippi Isabel resisted his charms but the melodies make the song feel more like a celebration so its hard to feel to sad for him and you just get taken up with the momentum of the song and dance away to it without out even realising (well I did anyway). 

Also, incase you are wondering who Mississippi Isabel is, apparently she was a girl who he met at a gig and became his muse (according to the internet anyway).

Apparently there is also a new album on the way and it will be nice for him and his hair to grace our homes with more upbeat sounds and gentle lyrics. 

(Is that fabulous hair real or not? (I really hope it is))

em, (@emiemzy)

G L A S G O W

G L A S G O W; a new spanish duo has graced my ears recently with their dreamy single 'Stockholm'.
The duo consists of Mario.V.S (composer, keyboard, vocals and guitar) and Adrian.A.G (lead guitar and lyrics). The pair have been working hard over the holidays to record 'Stockholm' and with good reason, the song is definitely one almost everybody can enjoy.

The song consists of sleepy vocals and the pitter patter of guitar notes, both components working together to relax every inch of your body while causing you to sway gently in time to the tune. The sounds make you feel as though you are drifting, an ability most songs no longer have these days, making it something people need to take notice of. The only flaw to point out with this song is that it's over so soon, it is easy to get carried away with the song so when its over you do feel slightly lost.

Another song you can take a look at is 'Nebraska', a slightly more upbeat song featuring a gentle drum beat, definitely pushing the band into a similar category of other indie bands such as Peace and Swim Deep.

The band are releasing their first EP 'Phantom' soon (which I am looking forward to hearing) and are also planning on playing some shows around their city.
You can hear both tracks on their Bandcamp here
You can follow the band on SoundCloud here
Or you can follow their twitter (@glasgowwband), their Vimeo and you can check out their YouTube too.

em, (@emiemzy)