Words: Saam Das
At the end of March, we brought you the first taste of the new Death Cab For Cutie album in the form of 'You Are A Tourist'. The album from whence it came, 'Codes & Keys', is out now and you can stream it in full below.
on Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Death Cab For Cutie - 'Codes And Keys' (UK Release: 30 May '11) //
Words: Saam Das
At the end of March, we brought you the first taste of the new Death Cab For Cutie album in the form of 'You Are A Tourist'. The album from whence it came, 'Codes & Keys', is out now and you can stream it in full below.
Words: Saam Das
At the end of March, we brought you the first taste of the new Death Cab For Cutie album in the form of 'You Are A Tourist'. The album from whence it came, 'Codes & Keys', is out now and you can stream it in full below.
on Monday, May 30, 2011
'Face/Off' (1997) // Words: Saam Das
Director: John Woo // Cast: John Travolta, Nicholas Cage, Dominique Swain
SYNOPSIS: "Action thriller in which an FBI agent agrees to have the face of a terrorist grafted onto his own head in order to discover the location of an enormous bomb." (bbc.co.uk)
Director: John Woo // Cast: John Travolta, Nicholas Cage, Dominique Swain
SYNOPSIS: "Action thriller in which an FBI agent agrees to have the face of a terrorist grafted onto his own head in order to discover the location of an enormous bomb." (bbc.co.uk)
Words: Simon Opie
I assume the name Botibol is taken from the musical impersonator, eponymous anti-hero of the Roald Dahl short story - is the solo project of Vincent Bestaven, a French musician whose first album, 'Born From A Shore' was released earlier this year in his native country. It shows a nice touch for melody and the songs are quirky in a Mystery Jets kind of way.
I assume the name Botibol is taken from the musical impersonator, eponymous anti-hero of the Roald Dahl short story - is the solo project of Vincent Bestaven, a French musician whose first album, 'Born From A Shore' was released earlier this year in his native country. It shows a nice touch for melody and the songs are quirky in a Mystery Jets kind of way.
on Sunday, May 29, 2011
'Doctor Who' Series Six, Episode Six: 'The Almost People' //
Words: Saam Das
SYNOPSIS: "Science fiction drama. The Doctor (Matt Smith) must convince terrified factory workers to work with their doppelgangers to overcome a monster of their own making." (bbc.co.uk)
In spite of its suspect title, 'The Almost People' proved a successful follow up to last week's offering, 'The Rebel Flesh'. The episode heightened the action of the last episode while further examining the questions of humanity and identity. More importantly, the episode finally delivered a tangible development in terms of one of the series-wide arcs. FINALLY!
Words: Saam Das
SYNOPSIS: "Science fiction drama. The Doctor (Matt Smith) must convince terrified factory workers to work with their doppelgangers to overcome a monster of their own making." (bbc.co.uk)
In spite of its suspect title, 'The Almost People' proved a successful follow up to last week's offering, 'The Rebel Flesh'. The episode heightened the action of the last episode while further examining the questions of humanity and identity. More importantly, the episode finally delivered a tangible development in terms of one of the series-wide arcs. FINALLY!
on Saturday, May 28, 2011
Words: Saam Das
We enjoyed Beth Jeans Houghton live at Field Day festival last year. She hasn't done a great deal in the public eye since then but having signed with Mute Records, she's back in a big way with the sweeping folk of 'Dodecahedron' - listen to and download the track for free below.
We enjoyed Beth Jeans Houghton live at Field Day festival last year. She hasn't done a great deal in the public eye since then but having signed with Mute Records, she's back in a big way with the sweeping folk of 'Dodecahedron' - listen to and download the track for free below.
on Friday, May 27, 2011
'Heartbeats'/'Les Amours Imaginaries' (UK Release: 27 May '11) //
Words: Paul Dean
Director: Xavier Dolan // Cast: Xavier Dolan, Monia Chokri, Niels Schneider
When 'J'ai Tué Ma Mere'/'I Killed My Mother' came out just over a year ago now, Xavier Dolan impressed not only with an original and engaging debut, but also his ability to perform well as an actor, writer and also director. He takes on all three duties again with his second feature and largely manages to pull it off, though with less style and maturity than before.
Words: Paul Dean
Director: Xavier Dolan // Cast: Xavier Dolan, Monia Chokri, Niels Schneider
When 'J'ai Tué Ma Mere'/'I Killed My Mother' came out just over a year ago now, Xavier Dolan impressed not only with an original and engaging debut, but also his ability to perform well as an actor, writer and also director. He takes on all three duties again with his second feature and largely manages to pull it off, though with less style and maturity than before.
Tribes live at Independent, Sunderland (21st May '11) // Words: Emily Solan
Whilst it may not be known for its burgeoning live scene (yeah we may have The Futureheads, Frankie & The Heartstrings and Field Music, but very little else) but Sunderland was the scene of Tribes’ first headline gig outside of London. Bold choice there, and it didn’t quite pay off, as they played to a room full of less than 30 people.
Whilst it may not be known for its burgeoning live scene (yeah we may have The Futureheads, Frankie & The Heartstrings and Field Music, but very little else) but Sunderland was the scene of Tribes’ first headline gig outside of London. Bold choice there, and it didn’t quite pay off, as they played to a room full of less than 30 people.
on Thursday, May 26, 2011
'Cinderella Man' (2005) // Words: Saam Das
SYNOPSIS: "Biopic of legendary 1930s boxer James Braddock, who returned to the ring after retirement as the underdog contender for the heavyweight championship" (bbc.co.uk)
SYNOPSIS: "Biopic of legendary 1930s boxer James Braddock, who returned to the ring after retirement as the underdog contender for the heavyweight championship" (bbc.co.uk)
Tennis - 'Cape Dory' (UK Release: 23 May '11) // Words: Rajan Lakhani
Reading the backstory of how 'Cape Dory' came about (husband and wife quit their day jobs, take an eight-month sail round the Atlantic Ocean, record music about it), you would predict an album of carefree and romantic songs. This isn’t far from the truth, as Tennis delivers a record which is truly heartwarming, evoking a bygone age of innocence.
Reading the backstory of how 'Cape Dory' came about (husband and wife quit their day jobs, take an eight-month sail round the Atlantic Ocean, record music about it), you would predict an album of carefree and romantic songs. This isn’t far from the truth, as Tennis delivers a record which is truly heartwarming, evoking a bygone age of innocence.
on Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Words: Saam Das
By accident/not by design, these trailer catch ups have become a monthly event. April's round up looked at 'Super', 'Fight For Your Right Revisited' and 'Warrior' amongst others. Since then, we've had a couple of epic trailers in the form of 'X-Men: First Class' and 'Transformers: Dark Of The Moon'. This month, we look at screen returns for Tintin and The Muppets, and more below.
By accident/not by design, these trailer catch ups have become a monthly event. April's round up looked at 'Super', 'Fight For Your Right Revisited' and 'Warrior' amongst others. Since then, we've had a couple of epic trailers in the form of 'X-Men: First Class' and 'Transformers: Dark Of The Moon'. This month, we look at screen returns for Tintin and The Muppets, and more below.
Thurston Moore - 'Demolished Thoughts' (UK Release: 23 May '11) // Words: Simon Opie
The title of Thurston Moore’s new album, 'Demolished Thoughts' is apparently a reference to a song by The Faith, a Washington DC hardcore outfit from the 80’s. But there’s nothing hardcore about the album, produced by Beck and featuring Samara Lubelski on violin, Mary Lattimore on harp and Beck Hansen himself on various instruments, alongside others.
The title of Thurston Moore’s new album, 'Demolished Thoughts' is apparently a reference to a song by The Faith, a Washington DC hardcore outfit from the 80’s. But there’s nothing hardcore about the album, produced by Beck and featuring Samara Lubelski on violin, Mary Lattimore on harp and Beck Hansen himself on various instruments, alongside others.
Words: Saam Das
One of the bands I went to see while down in Brighton for The Great Escape were Seattle electronica proponents Beat Connection. Their live performance was far from striking but they have some magical tracks under their belts. Tropical new single, 'In The Water', is one such song - watch the video for the single below, and stream the recent mini-album in full too.
One of the bands I went to see while down in Brighton for The Great Escape were Seattle electronica proponents Beat Connection. Their live performance was far from striking but they have some magical tracks under their belts. Tropical new single, 'In The Water', is one such song - watch the video for the single below, and stream the recent mini-album in full too.
on Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Wild Beasts - 'Smother' (UK Release: 9 May '11) // Words: Emily Solan
Hearing an album live before hearing it on record throws me personally, but that’s just what I did with Wild Beasts. And having had only a passing interest since their critically acclaimed and Mercury nominated 'Two Dancers', I’m not exactly au fait with the entirety of their back catalogue. But with such high expectations to live up to, Wild Beasts have accomplished so much more with an eerily therapeutic and haunting album full of love, lust and longing.
Hearing an album live before hearing it on record throws me personally, but that’s just what I did with Wild Beasts. And having had only a passing interest since their critically acclaimed and Mercury nominated 'Two Dancers', I’m not exactly au fait with the entirety of their back catalogue. But with such high expectations to live up to, Wild Beasts have accomplished so much more with an eerily therapeutic and haunting album full of love, lust and longing.
Words: Saam Das
Radioclit and Esau Mwamwaya aka The Very Best recently put out a 'Super Mom' mixtape but seeing as I'm not really into mixtapes, that passed me by. But after a handy retweet from Stephen Moshi Moshi, I can bring you a couple of songs that didn't quite make the mix. Check out the infusion of African elements into both Yeasayer's 'Ambling Alp' and Jamie xx's remix of 'You Got The Love'.
Radioclit and Esau Mwamwaya aka The Very Best recently put out a 'Super Mom' mixtape but seeing as I'm not really into mixtapes, that passed me by. But after a handy retweet from Stephen Moshi Moshi, I can bring you a couple of songs that didn't quite make the mix. Check out the infusion of African elements into both Yeasayer's 'Ambling Alp' and Jamie xx's remix of 'You Got The Love'.
'Psychoville' Series Two, 'Episode Three' // Words: Saam Das
SYNOPSIS: "Comedy series. Mr Lomax reveals more about his past and his hatred for Tony Hancock becomes clear. Meanwhile Mr Jelly arrives at a booking meant to be for Mr Jolly." (bbc.co.uk)
I guess it had to happen eventually but 'Psychoville' finally took a (rather severe) dip in form thanks to 'Episode Three' of the new series. At best, I might say that it was treading water but that's being unduly kind. The wit was replaced by cringeworthy attempts at humour, while what could have been a pivotal twist was all but thrown away instantly.
SYNOPSIS: "Comedy series. Mr Lomax reveals more about his past and his hatred for Tony Hancock becomes clear. Meanwhile Mr Jelly arrives at a booking meant to be for Mr Jolly." (bbc.co.uk)
I guess it had to happen eventually but 'Psychoville' finally took a (rather severe) dip in form thanks to 'Episode Three' of the new series. At best, I might say that it was treading water but that's being unduly kind. The wit was replaced by cringeworthy attempts at humour, while what could have been a pivotal twist was all but thrown away instantly.
on Monday, May 23, 2011
Words: Saam Das
Zane Lowe interviewed Win Butler of Arcade Fire earlier this evening on BBC Radio 1, and played a couple of new tracks which the band are putting out soon as part of a deluxe version of 'The Suburbs'. Cashgrab or otherwise, you can listen to the songs below, or head to the BBC website to listen to the tracks and Win's interview.
Zane Lowe interviewed Win Butler of Arcade Fire earlier this evening on BBC Radio 1, and played a couple of new tracks which the band are putting out soon as part of a deluxe version of 'The Suburbs'. Cashgrab or otherwise, you can listen to the songs below, or head to the BBC website to listen to the tracks and Win's interview.
Words: Saam Das
Last Friday evening, I appeared on Tom Robinson's BBC 6Music radio show, Now Playing. As I mentioned in my review of The Great Escape, I was on the show talking about my three favourite acts of the festival - BASTILLE, Lanterns On The Lake and Oh Land. Listen on BBC iPlayer, skipping to around 25.30 in to hear my segment - in case you've missed out, the tracks I talked about are below.
Last Friday evening, I appeared on Tom Robinson's BBC 6Music radio show, Now Playing. As I mentioned in my review of The Great Escape, I was on the show talking about my three favourite acts of the festival - BASTILLE, Lanterns On The Lake and Oh Land. Listen on BBC iPlayer, skipping to around 25.30 in to hear my segment - in case you've missed out, the tracks I talked about are below.
'Pirates Of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides' (UK Release: 18 May '11) // Words: Ced Yuen
'Pirates Of The Caribbean' started off as a single, surprisingly good, film. With the addition of two poor sequels, it became an embarrassing franchise. Part 4 has a new story, mostly new characters, and barely a reference to parts 2 and 3. Clearly, it tries to distance itself from past mistakes – only it doesn’t get very far.
'Pirates Of The Caribbean' started off as a single, surprisingly good, film. With the addition of two poor sequels, it became an embarrassing franchise. Part 4 has a new story, mostly new characters, and barely a reference to parts 2 and 3. Clearly, it tries to distance itself from past mistakes – only it doesn’t get very far.
on Sunday, May 22, 2011
Words: Saam Das
I'd heard about the new Bon Iver album leaking earlier this week so pretty much assumed that all the tracks out there were being naughtily uploaded. But it seems Justin Vernon is happy for 'Calgary' to be downloaded for free/the price of an email address. Pick it up from the widget below.
I'd heard about the new Bon Iver album leaking earlier this week so pretty much assumed that all the tracks out there were being naughtily uploaded. But it seems Justin Vernon is happy for 'Calgary' to be downloaded for free/the price of an email address. Pick it up from the widget below.
'Doctor Who' Series Six, Episode Five: 'The Rebel Flesh' // Words: Saam Das
SYNOPSIS: "Science fiction drama. A solar tsunami liberates doppelgangers from their human 'originals' in a futuristic factory. Can the Doctor prevent all-out civil war?" (bbc.co.uk)
One of the more popular sci-fi tropes of late has been the examination of humanity and identity, perhaps most notably in Duncan Jones' debut feature, 'Moon'. Indeed, last year's 'Doctor Who' episodes, 'The Victory Of The Daleks' and 'The Pandorica Opens', also explored such themes. 'The Rebel Flesh' continues along such lines before abruptly ending - with the conclusion to follow next week.
SYNOPSIS: "Science fiction drama. A solar tsunami liberates doppelgangers from their human 'originals' in a futuristic factory. Can the Doctor prevent all-out civil war?" (bbc.co.uk)
One of the more popular sci-fi tropes of late has been the examination of humanity and identity, perhaps most notably in Duncan Jones' debut feature, 'Moon'. Indeed, last year's 'Doctor Who' episodes, 'The Victory Of The Daleks' and 'The Pandorica Opens', also explored such themes. 'The Rebel Flesh' continues along such lines before abruptly ending - with the conclusion to follow next week.
on Saturday, May 21, 2011
Words: Saam Das
We were early on the scene when we wrote about a Manchester band called Patterns last October. Since then, they've released their debut EP and signed to Melodic Records. More importantly, they've recorded a blissed out cover of the classic All Saints track, 'Pure Shores'. Pick up the EP for free and download the cover below.
We were early on the scene when we wrote about a Manchester band called Patterns last October. Since then, they've released their debut EP and signed to Melodic Records. More importantly, they've recorded a blissed out cover of the classic All Saints track, 'Pure Shores'. Pick up the EP for free and download the cover below.
on Friday, May 20, 2011
Words: Saam Das
Last week, I descended upon Brighton for The Great Escape, "Europe's leading festival for new music" and sort of the UK version of SXSW. For once, this review is not late out of laziness but designed to tie in with my scheduled appearance on Now Playing, a new BBC 6Music show, where I'll be chatting about three of my favourite bands of the festival tonight. Or you can read about those three and more below.
Last week, I descended upon Brighton for The Great Escape, "Europe's leading festival for new music" and sort of the UK version of SXSW. For once, this review is not late out of laziness but designed to tie in with my scheduled appearance on Now Playing, a new BBC 6Music show, where I'll be chatting about three of my favourite bands of the festival tonight. Or you can read about those three and more below.
Words: Saam Das
After passing 100,000 followers on Twitter, 'Toy Story 3' director Lee Unkrich shared "an embarrassing old video" with the world. Except it's not embarassing because it's him being bloody amazing on the American gameshow, 'Win, Lose Or Draw'. Skip to 10.20 for the awesomeness to really kick in.
After passing 100,000 followers on Twitter, 'Toy Story 3' director Lee Unkrich shared "an embarrassing old video" with the world. Except it's not embarassing because it's him being bloody amazing on the American gameshow, 'Win, Lose Or Draw'. Skip to 10.20 for the awesomeness to really kick in.
on Thursday, May 19, 2011
Words: Simon Opie
Fucked Up have released a series of four free to download "singles" from their forthcoming album, 'David Comes To Life', and this 'Queen Of Hearts' is the last in the series. Download the track below, and find the previous free downloads at the Matador Records blog (here, here, and here.)
Fucked Up have released a series of four free to download "singles" from their forthcoming album, 'David Comes To Life', and this 'Queen Of Hearts' is the last in the series. Download the track below, and find the previous free downloads at the Matador Records blog (here, here, and here.)
on Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Words: Saam Das
I'd heard Toronto band Bravestation last year but they didn't quite grab me enough at the time to write about them. There was definitely something about the band though so the other night I popped along to their debut UK show, promoted by the good folk at Laissez Faire Club. I was greeted by a set full of compelling experimental pop.
I'd heard Toronto band Bravestation last year but they didn't quite grab me enough at the time to write about them. There was definitely something about the band though so the other night I popped along to their debut UK show, promoted by the good folk at Laissez Faire Club. I was greeted by a set full of compelling experimental pop.
Words: Kieran Toms
I was first impressed by CLOUT! at the sadly-now-on-hold Offset Festival last year, but then heard nothing about them for a while. And I suppose that’s not surprising, as they've just put out their first release, and have also ‘withdrawn from gigging’ to concentrate on honing their sound. What would there have been to hear about?
I was first impressed by CLOUT! at the sadly-now-on-hold Offset Festival last year, but then heard nothing about them for a while. And I suppose that’s not surprising, as they've just put out their first release, and have also ‘withdrawn from gigging’ to concentrate on honing their sound. What would there have been to hear about?
on Monday, May 16, 2011
EMA - 'Past Life Martyred Saints' (UK Release: 9 May '11) //
Words: Simon Opie
EMA is the new band formed by California resident Erika M Anderson, also of Gowns, and 'Past Life, Martyred Saints' is their first album. ‘Big Sound’ is definitely in fashion just now – see how Beastie Boys have piled on the layers on their new album – but it’s quite easy to get lost in the soundscapes. This is a pitfall that EMA has successfully avoided.
Words: Simon Opie
EMA is the new band formed by California resident Erika M Anderson, also of Gowns, and 'Past Life, Martyred Saints' is their first album. ‘Big Sound’ is definitely in fashion just now – see how Beastie Boys have piled on the layers on their new album – but it’s quite easy to get lost in the soundscapes. This is a pitfall that EMA has successfully avoided.
Words: Saam Das
The first Joe Bloggers gig fast approaches and we're honoured to be involved. Hopefully some of you reading this can make it down to Dingwalls in Camden and say hello to members of Team FG. And of course, Flying With Anna and The Blue Walrus too. To try to help you in that quest, we're giving away at least 2 tickets to the gig below. Maybe more if we're feeling generous, so enter away.
The first Joe Bloggers gig fast approaches and we're honoured to be involved. Hopefully some of you reading this can make it down to Dingwalls in Camden and say hello to members of Team FG. And of course, Flying With Anna and The Blue Walrus too. To try to help you in that quest, we're giving away at least 2 tickets to the gig below. Maybe more if we're feeling generous, so enter away.
on Sunday, May 15, 2011
'Doctor Who' Series Six, Episode Three - 'The Doctor's Wife' //
Words: Paul Dean
SYNOPSIS: "Science fiction drama. When he follows a Time Lord distress signal, the Doctor (Matt Smith) puts Amy (Karen Gillan), Rory (Arthur Darvill) and his beloved TARDIS in grave danger." (bbc.co.uk)
Words: Paul Dean
SYNOPSIS: "Science fiction drama. When he follows a Time Lord distress signal, the Doctor (Matt Smith) puts Amy (Karen Gillan), Rory (Arthur Darvill) and his beloved TARDIS in grave danger." (bbc.co.uk)
on Friday, May 13, 2011
Words: Saam Das
If you're already at The Great Escape and away from a computer then I trust you have already done the necessary research and preparation in order to have jolliest time possible. If not, then check out my Thursday preview and Friday preview to give you a helping hand. The final preview is ready to be consumed below.
If you're already at The Great Escape and away from a computer then I trust you have already done the necessary research and preparation in order to have jolliest time possible. If not, then check out my Thursday preview and Friday preview to give you a helping hand. The final preview is ready to be consumed below.
on Thursday, May 12, 2011
'Hanna' (UK Release: 6 May '11) // Words: Ced Yuen
Director: Joe Wright
Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Eric Bana, Cate Blanchett, Tom Hollander
Once upon a time, there was a little girl called Hanna (Saoirse Ronan), who was raised in a forest by her father Erik (Eric Bana). As an ex-CIA agent, Erik taught Hanna everything she needed: hunting, armed and unarmed combat, and all the languages in the world. One day, Hanna was sent out of the forest to assassinate Marissa Wiegler (Cate Blanchett), the woman who murdered her mother.
Director: Joe Wright
Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Eric Bana, Cate Blanchett, Tom Hollander
Once upon a time, there was a little girl called Hanna (Saoirse Ronan), who was raised in a forest by her father Erik (Eric Bana). As an ex-CIA agent, Erik taught Hanna everything she needed: hunting, armed and unarmed combat, and all the languages in the world. One day, Hanna was sent out of the forest to assassinate Marissa Wiegler (Cate Blanchett), the woman who murdered her mother.
Words: Saam Das
You may or may not have read my preview of Thursday's shenanigans at The Great Escape but either way, here are a selection of bands to check out on Friday. The festival really seems to start hotting up on Friday afternoon. Saturday recommendations will also arrive at some point soon.
You may or may not have read my preview of Thursday's shenanigans at The Great Escape but either way, here are a selection of bands to check out on Friday. The festival really seems to start hotting up on Friday afternoon. Saturday recommendations will also arrive at some point soon.
on Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Words: Saam Das
Back in 2006, not long after this blog started, I ventured down to Brighton for the first ever Great Escape festival. With over 100 bands appearing over three days, I caught acts like The Spinto Band, The Young Knives and Tapes n Tapes all in relatively tiny venues. Now, the festival's much bigger and I'm heading back.
Back in 2006, not long after this blog started, I ventured down to Brighton for the first ever Great Escape festival. With over 100 bands appearing over three days, I caught acts like The Spinto Band, The Young Knives and Tapes n Tapes all in relatively tiny venues. Now, the festival's much bigger and I'm heading back.
'Attack The Block' (UK Release: 11 May '11) // Words: Saam Das
Blending sci-fi, comedy, horror and "real talk", 'Attack The Block' is a uniquely entertaining and quintessentially British romp. First time director but long time funnyman Joe Cornish has successfully made a low budget, high concept feature, inspired by Luc Besson and Steven Spielberg.
Blending sci-fi, comedy, horror and "real talk", 'Attack The Block' is a uniquely entertaining and quintessentially British romp. First time director but long time funnyman Joe Cornish has successfully made a low budget, high concept feature, inspired by Luc Besson and Steven Spielberg.
'Psychoville' Series 2: 'Episode 1' // Words: Saam Das
SYNOPSIS: "The survivors of the explosion at Ravenhill Psychiatric Hospital reunite to bury one of their number killed in the blast. But there is to be no rest for the wicked, as new mysteries are unearthed." (bbc.co.uk)
I mentioned in the opening gambit of a recent 'Doctor Who' review that the return of 'Psychoville' was one of only two TV series that I was actually looking forward to watching this year. Despite a bit of a muddled start to the new series, I don't think it's going to let me down.
SYNOPSIS: "The survivors of the explosion at Ravenhill Psychiatric Hospital reunite to bury one of their number killed in the blast. But there is to be no rest for the wicked, as new mysteries are unearthed." (bbc.co.uk)
I mentioned in the opening gambit of a recent 'Doctor Who' review that the return of 'Psychoville' was one of only two TV series that I was actually looking forward to watching this year. Despite a bit of a muddled start to the new series, I don't think it's going to let me down.
on Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Friendly Fires - 'Pala' (UK Release: 16 May '11) // Words: Saam Das
Thanks to the good folks at the Hype Machine, you can listen to the new Friendly Fires album, 'Pala', ahead of its UK and US (May 24th) release dates. It's the follow up to their Mercury nominated self-titled debut, and continues along in the dance vein of its predecessor. You can also download a track from the album for the price of an email address.
Thanks to the good folks at the Hype Machine, you can listen to the new Friendly Fires album, 'Pala', ahead of its UK and US (May 24th) release dates. It's the follow up to their Mercury nominated self-titled debut, and continues along in the dance vein of its predecessor. You can also download a track from the album for the price of an email address.
Words: Jack Thomson
London's Pushing Hands are quite simply a delight to listen to. Easy on the ears, their laid back, perfectly formed pop songs remind me that there are still some incredibly talented songwriters out there. The band have very graciously given us an exclusive free download of 'He's Still Here' for a limited time.
London's Pushing Hands are quite simply a delight to listen to. Easy on the ears, their laid back, perfectly formed pop songs remind me that there are still some incredibly talented songwriters out there. The band have very graciously given us an exclusive free download of 'He's Still Here' for a limited time.
Miles Kane - 'Colour Of The Trap' (UK Release: 9 May '11) // Words: Emily Solan
Having been doubted throughout his career so far, and accused by many of riding on a certain Monkeys’ coattails, 'Colour Of The Trap' is the sort of gritty, dirty rock and roll that we need, in our current deluge of manufactured pop and pointless club anthems.
Having been doubted throughout his career so far, and accused by many of riding on a certain Monkeys’ coattails, 'Colour Of The Trap' is the sort of gritty, dirty rock and roll that we need, in our current deluge of manufactured pop and pointless club anthems.
on Monday, May 09, 2011
'Upside Down - The Creation Records Story' (UK Release: 9 May '11) // Words: Saam Das
Creation Records was one of the most successful and controversial independent British record labels until its demise in 1999. 'Upside Down - The Creation Records Story' takes viewers through the history of the label and in particular, its figurehead Alan McGee. It'd be wrong to assume that this is simply the story of McGee, or the label's most high profile success, Oasis. It is much more.
Creation Records was one of the most successful and controversial independent British record labels until its demise in 1999. 'Upside Down - The Creation Records Story' takes viewers through the history of the label and in particular, its figurehead Alan McGee. It'd be wrong to assume that this is simply the story of McGee, or the label's most high profile success, Oasis. It is much more.
Fleet Foxes - 'Helplessness Blues' (UK Release: 2 May '11) // Words: Rajan Lakhani
Fleet Foxes’ debut album was one of the most over-rated records for me of 2008. Only a handful of tracks really made an impact, with 'White Winter Hymnal' (downloadable for free from Sub Pop) the clear standout. It became one of those records people with little or no interest in music would mention to try to display some form of knowledge of the ‘current scene’. Some have even blamed the group for encouraging the ‘folk pop revival’ scene dominated by the aural tyranny of Mumford & Sons.
Fleet Foxes’ debut album was one of the most over-rated records for me of 2008. Only a handful of tracks really made an impact, with 'White Winter Hymnal' (downloadable for free from Sub Pop) the clear standout. It became one of those records people with little or no interest in music would mention to try to display some form of knowledge of the ‘current scene’. Some have even blamed the group for encouraging the ‘folk pop revival’ scene dominated by the aural tyranny of Mumford & Sons.
Words: Saam Das
Day 2 of my 2011 Gaymers Camden Crawl experience. Day 1 went pretty well and I managed to catch eight or so bands that I'd never seen before in amongst some minor japery. I was determined on Day 2 to go one step further and check out even more new bands. I'm pleased to report that I managed that feat.
Day 2 of my 2011 Gaymers Camden Crawl experience. Day 1 went pretty well and I managed to catch eight or so bands that I'd never seen before in amongst some minor japery. I was determined on Day 2 to go one step further and check out even more new bands. I'm pleased to report that I managed that feat.
on Sunday, May 08, 2011
'Doctor Who' Series Six, Episode Three 'The Curse Of Black Spot' // Words: Saam Das
SYNOPSIS: "The Doctor must solve the mystery of the disappearance of a pirate crew at the hands of a beautiful Siren." (bbc.co.uk)
Following the deep, dark two part opening episode (reviews here and here) to this series of 'Doctor Who', 'The Curse Of The Black Spot' feels like it's treading water. Almost literally, as the Doctor (Matt Smith), Amy (Karen Gillan), and Rory (Arthur Darvill) find themselves on a becalmed pirate ship being attacked by a Siren (Lily Cole).
SYNOPSIS: "The Doctor must solve the mystery of the disappearance of a pirate crew at the hands of a beautiful Siren." (bbc.co.uk)
Following the deep, dark two part opening episode (reviews here and here) to this series of 'Doctor Who', 'The Curse Of The Black Spot' feels like it's treading water. Almost literally, as the Doctor (Matt Smith), Amy (Karen Gillan), and Rory (Arthur Darvill) find themselves on a becalmed pirate ship being attacked by a Siren (Lily Cole).
on Saturday, May 07, 2011
Crooked Mountain, Crooked Sea - 'What's There To Write About?' (UK Release: 2 May '11) // Words: Simon Opie
'What's There To Write About?' is the debut LP from Brighton's Crooked Mountain, Crooked Sea, and it follows last year's 'I Watched It From the Roadside' EP, which I really liked. There were two main aspects to their music - one directly in the screamo tradition and another using more complex, gentler song structures. This album blends those two approaches but generally ditches the "gentler", to create songs that could be characterised as Kurt Weill meets Mclusky.
'What's There To Write About?' is the debut LP from Brighton's Crooked Mountain, Crooked Sea, and it follows last year's 'I Watched It From the Roadside' EP, which I really liked. There were two main aspects to their music - one directly in the screamo tradition and another using more complex, gentler song structures. This album blends those two approaches but generally ditches the "gentler", to create songs that could be characterised as Kurt Weill meets Mclusky.
Words: Saam Das
SYNOPSIS: "Taut thriller inspired by Howard Hawks's 'Rio Bravo' about a violent stand-off in Los Angeles, following the killing of six members of a tough street gang in a police ambush." (bbc.co.uk)
SYNOPSIS: "Taut thriller inspired by Howard Hawks's 'Rio Bravo' about a violent stand-off in Los Angeles, following the killing of six members of a tough street gang in a police ambush." (bbc.co.uk)
on Friday, May 06, 2011
Words: Saam Das
Regular readers should be a little familiar with Dan Smith aka BASTILLE by now. We were one of the first blogs to feature BASTILLE, back in December. Not only has he got a brand spanking new website but he's also putting out his debut single, a 7" vinyl of 'Flaws' and 'Icarus'.
Regular readers should be a little familiar with Dan Smith aka BASTILLE by now. We were one of the first blogs to feature BASTILLE, back in December. Not only has he got a brand spanking new website but he's also putting out his debut single, a 7" vinyl of 'Flaws' and 'Icarus'.
Words: Saam Das
Day 1 of my first ever Camden Crawl didn't start off especially well, when I discovered there would be severe delays on my tube journey in. And then when I actually got to the HMV Forum to pick up my Crawl pass, an overzealous door person made me walk through their unwieldy queue system WHEN I WAS THE ONLY BLOODY PERSON TRYING TO GET IN. After that though, I actually had a rather splendid time. For the most part.
Day 1 of my first ever Camden Crawl didn't start off especially well, when I discovered there would be severe delays on my tube journey in. And then when I actually got to the HMV Forum to pick up my Crawl pass, an overzealous door person made me walk through their unwieldy queue system WHEN I WAS THE ONLY BLOODY PERSON TRYING TO GET IN. After that though, I actually had a rather splendid time. For the most part.
on Thursday, May 05, 2011
Words: Saam Das
April's been a bit of a ridiculous month for the singles round up with Record Store Day dominating proceedings. Several special, limited edition singles came out on April 16th this year and well, it'd be a nightmare going through all of those on top of my bursting lists of regular singles. So I might have missed the odd amazing single but here's a selection of very good ones anyway.
April's been a bit of a ridiculous month for the singles round up with Record Store Day dominating proceedings. Several special, limited edition singles came out on April 16th this year and well, it'd be a nightmare going through all of those on top of my bursting lists of regular singles. So I might have missed the odd amazing single but here's a selection of very good ones anyway.
Thomas Tantrum live @ Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen, London (27 April '11) // Words: Saam Das
I generally do my best to avoid Hoxton on any given evening but I do like me some Thomas Tantrum so I popped down one April evening to see them headline at the Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen. The Southampton quartet have subtly altered the wonky pop of their debut album, with the live set showing off some of their more mature indie-pop.
I generally do my best to avoid Hoxton on any given evening but I do like me some Thomas Tantrum so I popped down one April evening to see them headline at the Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen. The Southampton quartet have subtly altered the wonky pop of their debut album, with the live set showing off some of their more mature indie-pop.
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