[LISTEN] VITAMIN - This Isn't Love

Leeds-based indie pop quartet VITAMIN have unveiled their new single 'This Isn't Love' and it's the ultimate energetic hit that one could hope for from this exciting band. Following their catchy single 'To Believe', this vibrant track does not disappoint and reflects VITAMIN's endless delivery of colourful tunes that always stay in your head for hours on end. 'This Isn't Love' contains a perfect melodic chorus that carries the entire tune effortlessly. Embellished with atmospheric backing vocals and an upbeat guitar part, it is clearly inevitable to not dance to this pop anthem!

VITAMIN are embarking on a tour of in-store performances at COW vintage stores which commences this week. Make sure you catch them whilst you can! Meanwhile, check out the new track below which was premiered on the Huw Stephens show on BBC Radio 1 on Monday.

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[LISTEN] The 1975 - The Sound

The 1975 have revealed their catchy pop-infused single 'The Sound' and it is absolutely incredible. Following the release of 'Love Me' and 'UGH!', the Manchester band continue to use the theme of 80's pop to highlight their developed sound which will form part of their sophomore album 'I Like It When You Sleep For You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware Of It' , which is due for its anticipated release next month. 'The Sound' is armed with an unforgettable chorus which will stay on repeat in your head for days on end, enabling it to be the perfect sing-along song. Brimming with a continuous beat and a combination of excellent instrumentation (especially the keys), this track most definitely emits an energetic vibe that one must dance along to.

The 1975's sophomore album is due for release on 26th February via Dirty Hit records and 'The Sound' will be available to listen from midnight tonight. The band will be touring extensively this year worldwide and will be touring the UK in March. Meanwhile, you can listen to 'The Sound' being premiered on the Annie Mac show below.

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[ALBUM REVIEW] Hinds - Leave Me Alone

The highly anticipated album from Spanish garage-rock four piece Hinds is finally here! ‘Leave Me Alone’ is the début LP from the girl group and it does not disappoint. Forming back in 2011, co-lead vocalists and guitarists Carlotta Cosials and Ana Perrote started out gigging together in Madrid. By 2014, (still as a duo) they recorded and released their ‘Demo’ (made up of two tunes: ‘Bamboo’ and ‘Trippy Gum’) on Bandcamp which received numerous amounts of praise. The success of the tracks triggered the naming of the band  ‘Deers’ as well as the addition of bassist Ade Martín and drummer Amber Grimbergen. Due to legal issues at the start of last year, the band had to change their name to ‘Hinds’ (which is equivalent to a female deer) and continued releasing singles under their new title. The non-stop triumph of Hinds has been evident over the past couple of years, with their cover of ‘Davey Crockett’ being produced by Árni Árnason from The Vaccines as well as now having a sensational début album under their belts. 

‘Leave Me Alone’ is undeniably a breath of fresh air. The antisocial title immediately indicates that the album is a youthful album, brimming with emotion, vivacity, feelings, passion, an epitome of growing up. Considering the LP is 12-tracks long, it is certainly bursting with the true authenticity of Hinds’ vibrant personalities and still effortlessly conveys the distinct sound that has provided them with so much recognition in the musical domain. 

The album launches with familiar favourite ‘Garden’ which initiates the garage-rock sound from the start, comprising of vibrant and laid-back guitar strums which carry the melody through. Carlotta Cosials and Ana Perrote complement each other perfectly with the co-lead vocal, echoing each other during the verses and communicating their animated enthusiasm through the lyrics ‘I can take you dancing’, ensuring that their youthfulness and energy is expressed from the opening. ‘Fat Calmed Kiddos’ promptly follows, with the witty title explicitly stating Hinds’ humorous side. An undoubtedly fast-paced chorus drives the tune along lyrically and musically. ‘Why are you always on my mind?’ is the rhetorical question repeatedly asked by the two vocalists whilst Amber Grimbergen ensures that the percussive sounds are top notch throughout the track, ending with a fitting jangly section which sums up the tune excellently. The guitar riff at the beginning of ‘Warts’ supports the principle melody comfortably, resulting in a more chilled-out song with clear instrumental sections. Lyrically, the words express the anger one has at another woman who is in a relationship with someone known. ‘Don’t let her waste your smile, don’t let her curse your eyes'. The unquestionably catchy ‘badadada’s’ ensure that one can easily sing along and participate with the song in a live atmosphere.

‘Easy’ possesses a discontinuous rhythmic flow, however, this aids the overall feeling of the track. Leading up to the main instrumental sections which consist of clear guitar solos, one can truly appreciate the musicianship of these four girls. The ramshackle and randomness of old favourite ‘Castigadas en el Granero’ (Punished in the Barn) emits a sense of thrill and exuberance. Americanised words such as ‘candy’ and ‘mall’ incorporated within the lyrics provide the tune with an impression of American rock and roll. Carlotta’s huskiness in her vocal is extremely evident and gives that extra emotion of youthful energy and rebellion with phrases such as ‘Let’s Get Out!’. 

‘Solar Gap’ is perfectly placed in the LP, it is a time to pause and think about what you’ve listened to and appreciate some authentic 4-piece band music-making. It depicts what it states and it allows a short instrumental section in the album to take control. Armed with a laid-back guitar part, the summery vibes of the track are extremely evident. Promptly, the break ends and in comes serious toe-tapper ‘Chili Town.’ Youthful passion and frustration is spilling out all over the place, ‘All I’m asking for is you to make a move!’ The warmth of the continuous guitar riffs allow you to be transported into a summer of amusement and recreation. Memorable bass lines from Ade Martín are distinct in spirited track ‘Bamboo.’ The chemistry between Ana and Carlotta is apparent throughout the entire melody line, with lyrics complementing each other as well as echoes and thoughts from one to the other. A clean guitar chord finish gives a sense of accomplishment on this vibrant track.

Endless smiles are spread all around during catchy rock’n’roll number ‘San Diego’. Equipped with a main theme that is truly unforgettable (‘Im saying I’m staying, doodoodoodooroodoo’), you cannot help but sing along to this electric, sun-kissed recording. An emotional relationship is recounted in ‘And I Will Send Your Flowers Back.’ However, the contradictory ‘I’ll Be Your Man’ reveals the true power of the female in a partnership, saying that she will be the ‘guide’ if ‘you close your eyes’. The variety of tones used for the duration of the track offer a more relaxed and sincere mood, allowing the listener to examine and reflect on the true meaning of the lyrics. ‘Walking Home’ is most definitely the perfect title for the closing track on the LP. Depicting a journey, you can relate to the voyage this remarkable young band have been on in order to create such a fantastic piece of artistic material. Cheerful guitar parts are heard for one last time. The track sums up the album as a whole: smiley, energetic and fun. A fade out at the end contributes to the atmosphere which explicitly indicates an album full of enthusiasm, vibrance and pure authenticity.

Hinds’ début album ‘Leave Me Alone’ is a genuine musical diamond in the rough, packed with unique eclectic tracks that are brimming with American rock and roll and pure sunshine. Joy and emotion embellish each number faultlessly and ultimately express the chemistry and true musicianship that this band possesses. Hinds are the real thing and one cannot cease to be impressed by this outstanding garage rock quartet. 

'Leave Me Alone' is out today via Lucky Number records. Hinds are also touring the UK in February in numerous cities, make sure to catch them whilst you can!

Hinds - Leave Me Alone

Out of 10: 8/10

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[GIG REVIEW] The Magic Gang @ Brudenell Social Club, Leeds, 14th December 2015

It’s on a dark, cold Yorkshire evening that The Magic Gang rolled into town; bringing with them their dreamy, laid back tunes that would fit effortlessly into anyone’s summer playlist. Originally billed for the Brudenell Social Club’s Games Room (a more intimate and intense enclosure), I was shocked on arrival to see the main room open with the top level roped off with curtains. Although deemed as a “small” venue, even I knew it would be hard for the Brighton four-piece to fill such a daunting arena – and sadly, the open plan set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Despite smashing their way through a strong setlist of devilishly infectious tracks, both old and from the forthcoming EP (brilliantly named ‘EP’), the band were not able to fill the glaringly empty venue. With a strong crowd of students and enthusiastic fans, the gig would have been perfectly placed in the originally billed intimate setting – which would have reflected their undeniable intensity that is present in their shows.

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This aside, the band expertly proved why they have been included in DIY Magazine’s ‘Class of 2016’ by bringing us a maturing and developed display of searing guitars and refined grooves. By constantly touring, The Magic Gang have slowly altered and perfected a setlist that accurately reflects their fun and energetic nature. While chatting to members Kris and Paeris, it became clear that the development of such a list hasn’t been as simple as you’d imagine – “the only problem is we have too many songs”. However, even with an embarrassment of riches, the band are able to fit in crisp and concise renditions of their many charming retro-indie guitar tunes that never fail to get the crowd dancing (even with a negative punter to floor space ratio).

Old fan favourite and publicity kickstarter ‘She Won’t Ghost’ is simple but effective, bringing with it a vintage production and the first of many examples of seamless harmonising between all three front men. The well-constructed new single ‘Jasmine’ is given some edge with centre of stage Jack forever smiling, cheerfully bouncing, and winking at any audience member he meets eyes with. With a catchy yet subtle chorus, it is no surprise the song is gaining increasing coverage on Radio 1 (tipped as track of the week BBC Radio 1 Introducing). Amidst some questionable mid-set chat about mirrors, we are treated to the dreamy ‘I Wanna Get To Know Ya’ and the never forgotten ‘Alright’. On top of this, we are also spoilt with some numbers off the impending EP (released in January) including ‘She Doesn’t See’, ‘Feeling Better’ and personal highlight 'All That I Want Is You'.

Unheard and unrecognised, ‘Jazzy’ (at least that’s what I think it’s called) is the dark horse of the set. With many fans opting to force the fun and create a ten-man mosh pit, it was seemingly lost at points. However, with close examination, it evolves into an absolute gem that wouldn’t be out of place on the new Unknown Mortal Orchestra album. Revolving around a modest beat and funky bassline, and with vocals lead by bassist Gus, the track oozes with ancillary confidence and develops into a pigeon-toed groove and indie-pop hybrid.

‘No Fun’ closes the regular show, with all the ‘cooler’ kids showing that they already know all of the words to it – testing its imminent status as a festival favourite in the summer. In jest, the Brighton boys play ‘Alright’ as an encore; showing that, even in these undecorated times, there is a place for a band unafraid of just having fun.

With their musical career only heading in one direction, and showing no signs of slowing, The Magic Gang are a group not to be missed.

The band play the 100 Club as part of the NME Awards Shows series on Monday 15th February 2016.
And don't forgot about their debut EP 'EP' - [PRE-ORDER]

The Magic Gang played:

Lady, Please

She Won’t Ghost

Jasmine

Wanna Get To Know Ya

She Doesn’t See

All That I Want Is You

Alright

Jazzy

Feeling Better

No Fun

- - - - - -

Shallow

Written by Richard Maver

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[GIG REVIEW] The Magic Gang + INHEAVEN + Day Wave @ The Red Gallery for Community London 2015

Downstairs at the red gallery is a pretty industrial looking space, complete with thick square pillars holding the multi-storey building housing this place up. These pillars create a small square area which the audience fills, facing the bare stage in front of them. There isn’t much scope for elaborate lighting, in fact all there really is is a collection of spot-lights on stage evidently blinding the acts performing. Despite the austere setting however, all three acts fill the room with their varying signature sounds, and the atypical gig location actually provides the night with a nice charm.

The first act to take to the stage are much hyped American bedroom indie group Day Wave, who announce that this is their first time in London. They perform a tight set, with the drifty/slackery sound that is created so well on their recordings coming across well in a live setting. There isn’t a lot of audience interaction, and at times the band look a little unsure of themselves, but both of these very very minor issues are far outshone by the quality of the playing, and the quality of the songs themselves.

Highlights include the seriously catchy ‘Come Home Now’, breakthrough single ‘Drag’ and self-deprecating ‘Zombie’. They announce that they’ve got two tracks left, but this turns out to not be the case as the promoter comes to tell them they’re out of time. I can only imagine this is why the imperious ‘We Try But We Don’t Fit In’ isn’t performed- ah well, this only goes to further convince me I need to see Day Wave again- not that I need any more convincing!

Second band on are Inheaven. The volume and intensity levels gain a marked increase, lead singer James Taylor's snarling vocal delivery style combined with the pounding drums, fuzzed out bass and screeching guitars are a true assault on the senses. The tunes are there too though, most notably in stand-out singles ‘Bitter Town’ and ‘Regeneration’ which make up the closing two songs of the set.

What impressed me most about Inheaven was the vocal interplay between Taylor and bassist Chloe Little. Reminiscent of My Bloody Valentine or The History of Apple Pie this was an example of a true shoegaze trope utilised to perfection, and coming across much more clearly than on record. Of all the bands, the industrial setting seemed to suit these guys the most.

Finally, and to much excitement from a crowd made up largely of their dedicated and enthusiastic fan base, headliners The Magic Gang strut out to deliver a punchy 40 minute set of their sunny indie bangers. The Magic Gang are probably the tightest band of their type I’ve seen play, in terms of a complete package of stage presence, musical performance, set pacing and vocal harmonies. The two lead singers play off of each other perfectly, and the rhythm section provide their vocal talents too when required. 

It is testament to the strength and depth of their growing back catalogue that they can despatch the song that got them noticed, and fan favourite ‘She Won’t Ghost’ second up. A few new songs (“we recorded in Kingston Jamaica…. I’m not bragging” … “you’re totally bragging…”) are road-tested and illicit a great response from the crowd. In between though you are never very far away from one of their seemingly endless supply of instant-classics – the ridiculously catchy “Jasmine” and melancholic “Alright” punctuate the middle section, before the rolling behemoth “No Fun” closes the main set.

The guys hardly leave the stage however before they’re back for a rousing and audience involving encore rendition of “Shallow”, the massive repeated refrain/hook ( “I’m so shallooooooow”) is initially sung communally over just the drums before the rest of the band crash in to see the night through to its conclusion.

It was a real pleasure experience three bands with undoubtedly bright futures.

  

Sundara Karma reveal video for 'Prisons to Purify'

Indie rock four-piece Sundara Karma have unveiled the visuals for their latest release 'Prisons to Purify' which features stunning vocals from Marika Hackman. The clip appears to be a continuation of the underwater occurrences in the 'Vivienne' video which was released in back in October. Containing remarkably filmed footage, 'Prisons to Purify' is most definitely an incredible combination of track and visuals. The simplicity of the slow-motion video allows us to focus on the throught-provoking lyrics and beautiful vocals from Oscar Lulu and Marika Hackman.

'Prisons to Purify' is taken from Sundara Karma's EPII which was released last Friday 6th November. You can purchase the EP now on iTunes. Sundara Karma have also announced that they will be touring the UK in February and March 2016 and tickets go on sale tomorrow. Meanwhile, check out the exceptional video below:

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Hinds unveil brand new double video and announce 2016 UK tour

Four-piece Spanish girl band Hinds have announced that they will be visiting the UK for an extensive UK tour throughout February 2016. Following the release of their debut album 'Leave Me Alone' in January 2016, this will most definitely be an unmissable tour.

Combined with this announcement, Hinds have released their new double video of their single 'Davey Crockett', with The Parrots' cover of 'All My Loving.' You can check out the video as well as the tour dates below! 

Mon February 15 2016 - CAMBRIDGE Portland Arms

Tue February 16 2016 - NORWICH Arts Centre

Wed February 17 2016 - NOTTINGHAM Rescue Rooms

Thu February 18 2016 - LONDON KOKO

Sat February 20 2016 - MANCHESTER Gorilla

Sun February 21 2016 - GLASGOW Stereo

Mon February 22 2016 - LEEDS Brudenell Social Club

Tue February 23 2016 - BIRMINGHAM Hare and Hounds

Wed February 24 2016 - BRISTOL Fleece

Fri February 26 2016 - BRIGHTON Patterns

[LISTEN] - Sundara Karma - Vivienne

Four piece Indie band Sundara Karma have unveiled their new banger of a track "Vivienne" which will form part of their new EP out in November. After playing an incredible set at Reading and Leeds on the Festival Republic stage this year, one can tell that this exciting band are destined for great things.

"Vivienne," was premièred yesterday evening on Radio 1 as Huw Stephens' Hottest Record, receiving never-ending positive response from listeners.

Oscar Lulu's flawless, lead vocals combined with a driving bass and catchy guitar parts provide an exceptional instrumentation to a hit track. The chorus is undoubtedly one that will be playing over and over in people's heads, which will ultimately lead to crowds singing along at festivals and shows next year, just you wait. Sundara Karma are supporting The Wombats on their UK tour for the next couple of weeks and will be following this with a headline UK tour of their own in November. Check them out while you can!

Check out the track below.

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Bastille release brand new track "Hangin'"

Following rumours of new material last week, Bastille have announced that a brand new track ''Hangin'''  features on the new FIFA 16 game, however, out of the blue, lead singer Dan Smith announced on twitter this afternoon, 'I'm about to post a new song by us lot.'

FIFA has already been released in some countries so 'Hangin' can be listened to now which is very exciting! Now the track is officially released on Youtube which you can listen to below! The track is very polished with classic Bastille harmonies embellishing the pre-chorus with an inevitably catchy chorus taking over. The guitars are a lovely new addition also. We can only hope that Bastille will continue to deliver with hits such as 'Hangin' giving us a taste of what is to come in the near future.

Swim Deep release video for 'Namaste'

Swim Deep have unveiled their hilarious video for new single 'Namaste' taking retro game shows as the main theme in this exciting video. With cameo appearances from familiar faces, such as Fred Macpherson from Spector, the whole concept is highly entertaining and fits with the song perfectly. The Birmingham band have decided to go all out vintage in the video clip with outfits so old that it's hard to believe this video has been made in 2015.

You can catch Swim Deep on their UK tour in October with support from The Magic Gang.


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Check out the video below:

[GIG REVIEW] Elk @ Night and Day Cafe, Manchester, 6th August 2015

A Quirky cafe, slap bang in the middle of Manchester on a Thursday night isn't my normal sort of scene (being miles away from home) but that's where i found myself, grasping at trying to find a good gig whilst on a random road trip. Little did i know a little slice of home was waiting for me at the end of the set, a slice that my friend was well aware of and had forgotten to tell me about!

ELK are a three piece indie outfit straight out of Grimsby (my home town) who play lyrically superb, wistful and melodic tunes! Only a short set of 5 tracks but enough to wet the appetite and keep my fingers crossed for them to "make it".

Chatting to the lads afterwards was typically Northern in their appreciation of coming to their show. They informed me they were making a video for 'Three Ships' filmed in Grimsby, put us on the map lads and make us proud!

Something like 'Return to sender' sends me straight back to early Bloc Party days which is only a good thing obviously, sounds raw in its delivery and well constructed. Favourite tune was probably 'Remedy' though as i felt it could probably put a smile on my face after being in the foulest of moods. 

For fans of: Bloc Party, Everything Everything, Vampire Weekend.

Check them out if you please.

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[WATCH] Deerhunter - Snakeskin

Deerhunter's new album, Fading Frontier, will be released October 16th, 2015.

The record was made by founding members Bradford Cox, Lockett Pundt, Moses Archuleta, and bassist Josh McKay. Written in their hometown of Atlanta, GA, production duties were shared by the band and Ben H. Allen III, continuing a collaboration that began with 2010’s Halcyon Digest.

Fading Frontier shows that a decade in, Deerhunter has lost none of its intensity. As the group matures, so they have grown into the most consistent purveyors of art-rock of their generation.

The first single is 'Snakeskin', watch it below.

[WATCH] Baio - Endless Rhythm

Vampire Weekend bassist, Chris Baio, has released a third track from his upcoming solo album 'The Names'. Following singles such as 'Brainwash Yyrr Face' and 'Sister of Pearl', Baio has created yet another thoroughly inspiring and atmospheric single. 'Endless Rhythm' is an utterly beautiful track with the name indicating what the song encompasses. The repetitive theme throughout drives the chorus effortlessly 'When they cut you down to size, You were glad they left you alive.'

Baio manages to explore many difference rhythms as the song progresses, which give it a sense of complexity whilst surrounding the pure simplicity of the lyrics. The lyric video, directed by Daniel Navetta and Tyler Haft creates another dimension to the track, with stunning still shots of the city at night. Baio's solo project is undoubtedly a very exciting aspect in the bassist's career and has already gained him recognition as an established electro-pop artist. His debut album, 'The Names' is due for release on the 18th of September via Glassnote.

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Check out the lyric video for 'Endless Rhythm' below:

[ALBUM REVIEW] Everything Everything - Get To Heaven

Get To Heaven finds some of Britain’s most off the wall eccentrics on their third mission to conquer the indie universe. It may well be third time lucky. Their previous two albums, e-number packed debut ‘Man Alive’, and the beautifully neglected ‘Arc’ are polar opposites but it finally feels like Everything Everything have found their feet.

With ‘Distant Past’ the Manchester outfit are at their finest with one of their catchiest hooks to date and lyrics like, “Soon I’ll be the best around”, they could stake a claim as producing one of the albums of the year. Amongst the batshit crazy commotion though ‘Get To Heaven’ sometimes feels like it’s been dragged through gritted teeth in ‘Regret’ and ‘Spring/Sun/Winter/Dread’. The careless, experimental, cogs flying everywhere type approach feels a bit forced half a decade on from ‘Man Alive’. 

The quartet may just have stepped down on their stubbornness for variety and gone for more recognisable melodies. Bring in escalating synths, and a Bloc Party style thrashing of a riff and now we’re talking in the case of bold opener, ‘To The Blade’, which flickers with the intensity of ‘Suffragette Suffragette’. ‘The Wheel’ on the other hand, is Two Door Cinema sun kissed chords galore before taking a tumble back down to Jonathan Higgs reality with dread-filled lyrics, “Do you wanna know how far you’ve come?” being regurgitated back to himself like he’s watching his own twisted version of ‘This Is Your Life’. No lyrics raise an eyebrow quite as much though as “It’s alright to feel like a fat kid in a push chair, old enough to run, old enough to fire a gun” in the verging on trance ‘No Reptiles’. 

Higgs distinguishable falsetto and rapid fire syntax are at the core of the quartet once more. ‘Fortune 500’ is a berserk flood of synths which pumps him with power as he chimes “I’ve won, I’ve won, they’ve told me that I’ve won”. In glitch-ridden ‘Zero Pharaoh’ he’s ready to put a full stop on things with commands of “Give me the gun, give me the gun, give me the gun”.

At other points he’s mad with science, probability and castration in ‘Blast Doors’, “Give me a lobotomy and I can be a tutor, open up the blast doors then we can be neutered”. It’s Everything Everything at their finest, firing nonsense from every orifice at full speed, whilst maintaining the high-pitched wailing poetry from ‘Arc’.

The whole thing is a bitter-sweet nightmare in which Higgs and co are left blurry eyed and dizzy. It makes sense though, and despite all its faults and quirky misplacements, on the third time of asking, Everything Everything have found their utopia.

'Get To Heaven'
Out of 10: 7/10

[LISTEN] Holy Esque - Fade

Glasgow outfit Holy Esque have just dropped their new track 'Fade' and it's set to be a bitter-sweet anthem for summer.

'Fade' comes from the forthcoming EP 'Submission' which is due for release on 17th July. Fans can also be treated to a video that accompanies the band's new track. It's been a while since we heard from the band but it looks like there may well be an album planned around the corner!

You can pre-order the Submission EP here and get an instant download of 'Fade'. You can also catch the band live at the following dates:

July 17th - Art School, Vic Bar, Glasgow
August 4th - The Social, London
August 5th - Old Blue Last, London

Watch the video for 'Fade' below:

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Jamie t unveils video for next single 'Rabbit Hole'

The pop-art inspired video has been released ahead of the release of the single itself, due on 12th January 2015.

'Rabbit Hole' will also include an exclusive B-side track titled, 'Sychophant', available for pre-order here. It comes off the back of his third studio album, 'Carry On The Grudge', and his recently announced appearance at Reading and Leeds Festival next year.

Watch the video for 'Rabbit Hole' below:



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EP Review... Palace - 'Lost In The Night'

Palace's debut EP 'Lost In The Night' is a gleaming gem in the crown of an indie music scene currently obsessed with making replica's of guitar bands been and gone, or drenching themselves in psychedelic groove.

Whilst the London ensemble do have bundles of groove to them, it's refreshingly unexpected. The throwback to blues and soft rock is a gentle and pleasant surprise to energetic indie-ears. 'Bitter' is the lead track, and arguably up there with some of the greatest sounds of the year. The raw hear-felt vocals are hard to go a miss, as is the climactic, jumbled instrumental ending.

The rest of the EP is fairly tender, with 'I Want What You Got' and 'Ocean Deep' still exploiting those quickly identifiable vocals. Essentially, the true beauty of Palace is never quite reached until you meet 'Veins'. It's a lullaby track you'd expect to find from the depths of a dusty antique store, still crackling on a record player as it did all those years before. Final number, 'Lost In The Night' rounds of a promising debut, with it's outro of percussion and fret-bending woes.

An EP as honest as ever, there's more than a gap on the record store shelf for Palace. That's so long as they don't get sucked into mainstream obscurity and keep their archaic, alternative blues-driven melodies refreshing and cool.

Palace - 'Into The Night'
Out of 10: 8/10

By Joshua Shreeve

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Palace release video for 'Bitter'

London based quartet Palace have released the video for their track 'Bitter' which will feature on their debut EP 'Lost In The Night', due for release on 20th October.

The video, shot in the brisk and bitter landscape of Northern England is as beautiful and tender as the music the band themselves are producing. Having supported Jamie T recently and now about to release their EP and do a round of their own gigs, they're destined for big things.

By Joshua Shreeve (@JJShreeve)

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Album Review... Jamie T - 'Carry On The Grudge'

'Carry On The Grudge' is doing just what you'd expect after a five-year gruelling wait for another album from one of Britain's most upfront indie-poets. Half a decade on from his last album, and Jamie Treays, now a slightly more matured 28 year old, has barely budged; still a frustrated, angst ridden individual whose more refined view on life has produced an album worth waiting for.

Opening track, ‘Limits Lie’ is the re-awakening from the five-year long grudge, of which Jamie is about to lump onto his back again for another twelve track journey down some of London's bleakest streets, exposing more insecurities and grit than ever before. Lyrically, the album is undeniably Jamie T, but they expose a more decayed, self-loathing state; ‘I’m sweating in a carcass, I’ve given up on me’ is a more broken and deteriorated soul than the sprightly youth we’re used to. His song-writing too has delved much deeper beneath a potentially tormenting few years with comeback song, ‘Don’t You Find’. Creeping right out of a tattered, cigarette stained sofa, its brooding nature is far removed from merry days of ‘drinking under age’ and ‘lightweight pricks’. 

Having had rumours of his death circulating over recent years, it’s amusing or maybe essential that ‘Zombie’ should rekindle an aura not felt since 'Sticks 'n' Stones'. Although it reveals some of his poorer lyrics, it's able to resurrect the cheeky chappy within him, as if it'd never left him. The ashes still lingering around from his past two albums are evident too, particularly halfway through the record. Those unimpressed with Jamie’s more laid-back approach on parts of the album, will be more than sufficed with an almost familiar trio of tracks. 'Trouble' is where 'Kings and Queens' left off with quick wit, nonsense lyrics, ‘doop de doop, doop doop doop, it’s trouble’. He’s clearly not had trouble thinking of more catchy ditties which ‘Rabbit Hole’ also attains, leaving you dizzy in its bullish trails. Elsewhere the scratchy ending to ‘Peter’, a snarling track about Jamie’s filthy alter-ego, is almost parallel to the jittery climax of 2009’s ‘Castro Dies’. 

The tender moments are a step away from the upbeat anthems of Jamie's yesteryear but the wailing backing vocals, provided by his new band, are still about. 'Turn On The Light' and 'The Prophet' peel back the layers and deliver lullaby chorus’ befitting for Jamie’s more heartfelt tales. These tales of course, would not be complete without their characters. In 2007 it was Sheila and Stella, 2009, Emily and Jilly and now Jamie’s having a pop at Mary Lee and Marcus.

It’s an album which although slightly altered in its sound, still addresses the real people and situations of Jamie's blurry world. Five years was a long time to wait, but he must be praised for returning with a record that’s as realistic as his last and firmly establishes him back in the game.

Jamie T - 'Carry On The Grudge'
Out of 10 - 8/10

By Joshua Shreeve (@JJShreeve)

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Introducing... Palace

They haven't even released their first EP yet but Palace are already turning heads in their direction with sleazy blues riffs and raw vocals at the hems of their music.

A fairly unknown outfit, it feels London based Palace are still trying to find their feet in a beautifully simplistic, like learning to swim kind of method. What they're developing is something extraordinary. Debut track, 'Veins' is a slow bluesy lullaby, well suited for any light-hearted romance that could've been kindled from the 1950s. Similarly, 'Bitter', sways with an archaic essence with close attention to detail. The heart-wrenching vocals and pitter-patter rhythm of the delicate guitar give it an alternative blues spin, and culminates to be the most refreshing song to come out of 2014.

With just these two songs to their name, Jamie T personally asked them to support him on his run of summer comeback shows; their biggest milestone to date. The next; their first EP. Expect to hear both tracks mentioned above on debut EP, 'Lost in the Night' out 20th October 2014.

You can pre-order the 'Lost in the Night' EP from iTunes.

By Joshua Shreeve (@JJShreeve)

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