Albums of 2021

Well 2021 went past very fast.  I must have enjoyed it. So as I sit in my moon chair being sprayed by a misting fan to keep cool in the December Sun, my mind has turned to the huge undertaking of describing and inevitably ranking the albums that have defined my year.  Not sure I want to rank them this year as it’s always an arbitrary ranking and the order could easily change with my mood.  The other reason is I’m now Twitter friends with almost everyone mentioned in this blog and don’t want to upset anyone.  Whether I place the album at number one or number thirty, I highly rate all these albums and recommend you check out anything that sounds like you might enjoy.  I have supported many of these artists with a digital or physical purchase and have really enjoyed playing them as I write these reviews. 

#30 Quivers - Golden Doubt 

Tasmania’s Quivers play jangling indie pop with excellent vocal harmonies.  Golden Doubt is their second album of the year. They also released an album of their interpretation of R.E.M.’s Out Of Time.  Favourite songs include Gutters of Love, You’re Not Always On My Mind, Hold You Back, & When It Breaks. 

#29 Acid Dad - Take It From The Dead

A New York band with a brilliant name, great psychedelic sound and a short eight track second album called Take It From The Dead. Favourite songs include Searchin', BBQ, Smile You're On Camera, & Djembe. 

#28 Lottie - Eve & Eve 

Lottie had been releasing great indie pop songs all year before releasing her debut album Eve & Eve in November.  It's a fantastic album brimming with catchy and emotional narratives.  Favourite songs include Lights Out, Indigo, Distorted, & Of The Night.

#27 Voldo - Regalia Nostalgia

This album is the bastard offspring of Beck and the Beta Band - you never know where it's heading next.  It's laid back sampledelic trip hop one minute, drunken reggae the next. Dive in and get confused and entertained in equal measure.  Favourite songs include Back To A Time, Round & Round, Bang The Drum, & Asthma Boy.

#26 Andrew Johnson - Dirteens 

Andrew "Prolific" Johnson has released a fair few albums this year including Suzie Wants to Boogie, the 9 track Madhouse EP as the final Crimson Bloom release and latest album Dirteens - a collection of mostly short indie Housemartins-esque gems with some great lyrics.  Andy has largely decamped to Bandcamp where you can enjoy this album and literally thousands of his previous albums.  Favourite songs include Grey Sky Thinking, This New Dawn, Jesus Christ Superstore, & Maybe It's Just.

#25 Feverjaw - All Bets Are Off  

Feverjaw deliver the goods on their debut album, a great alternative rock album channeling the spirits of Pixies, Nirvana, Ash, Manic Street Preachers and Placebo.  Dale is a great all round DIY musician, and the physical CD and artwork booklet is something of a treat in the steaming world.  Feverjaw go that one step further and it is well appreciated by the converts to the Feverjaw way. Including a shout-out to me in the album credits didn’t harm their cause either! Take note indie layabouts!  I must also mention the excellent Brightburn EP that preceded the album back in January which was of the same high standard.  I’m looking forward to their next move.  Standout songs include Stonewell Melody and the trio of singles Brightburn, Trauma and Grace, & Bloodwork. 

#24 Lyon Tide - Beginnings Of Ends 

There's some delicate arrangements on this album by Lyon Tide and it gets under your skin from the gorgeous opener Closure which builds and builds towards the sky.  It is followed by the downtempo funk of Hero which sounds like an indie Pet Shop Boys.  The Midlands trio have a winner on their hands here.  They're not shy to get some dance remixes in either which is always a bonus in my books.  Favourite songs include Closure, Hero, Science, & Blind.

#23 Jenny Colquitt - Something Beautiful

Jenny Colquitt came to my attention on her tribute song Captain Thomas Moore, with her wonderful voice and top songwriting.  She is also the singer with British Americana rock band ELY, but this is her first solo album.  There is great use of piano here and it reminds me of Australian singer Missy Higgins' early records.  Favourite songs include Dirty Town, Shape, Something Beautiful & 1964.

#22 The Mariners - Tales from the Great Central Line Volume One 

The second album from the Nottingham based 60's throwbacks.  Songs about Girls, trains and kitchen sink dramas.  The social commentary about keeping up with the Jones (Third album title there if you need one) and living beyond your means on Royston’s Lament is one of the highlights for me.  Another being the tale of a man laid off but pretending he’s still employed on Ooh La La.  Favourite songs include There Before Time, Ooh La La, Royston’s Lament, & That Girl Called Mary Jane.

#21 The Reytons - The Kids Off The Estate

If you like your indie loud, angry, with a twist of Arctic Monkeys Rock N Roll swagger then The Reytons is probably already on your radar.  The Kids Off The Estate broke into the higher places of the UK album charts when their debut album came out in November.  They have a sizable fan base which they have built up with explosive live shows and banging tunes over the last five years since the title track was originally released.  Favourite songs include The Kids Off The Estate, Expectations Of A Fool, Broke Boys Cartel, & Antibiotics.

#20 The Institutes - Colosseums 

A big indie rock n roll sound - Anthems with shoegaze guitars.  A Coventry band signed to the always reliable 42's Records.  The album only came out in late October and I must admit I've only listened to the album in full today (twice).  I heard others praising it and they're not wrong.  Favourite songs include All That You'll Ever Know, Alleyways, Inside Out, & Feels Like It's Raining Again.  But I'm not settled on those four as faves - it's all good, you know!      

#19 Invisible Squirrel - Sonder 

Released the day I started writing this blog but I have had earlier access to much of the album as it was recorded over the year.  The invisible squirrel is the alter ego of Joe Adhemar - to release his nuttier arrangements.  The big beat indie rodent tweaks his tunes and styles on each track and lyrics are just as important here on this album. He has also worked as a remixer, with tracks by Arcade State and Oh! Paulo given the squirrel treatment. Available on Bandcamp.  Standout tracks include Sonder, 303 Reasons to Like Rock, Droid, & Nicholas Bloody Parsons.  But you won’t find a duff track here so they are just some of my favourites today.

#18 Joe Peacock - Before The Robots Told Us Where To Go

Joe’s songwriting is strong on his second album of the year, the songs are mostly a collection of historical characters who suffered or struggled in their lives but still produced great art. There are personal songs too covering the topics of bullying and insomnia.  Joe writes in detail about all his songs on his blog and it’s always a fascinating read.  The genre hopping on the album keeps it fresh without feeling disjointed.  Punk, Reggae, Shoegaze all sit alongside each other.  The production is excellent and it’s Joe Adhemar (again) who has been instrumental in developing the arrangements and it’s clear that the two Joes have poured themselves into this album.  Available on Bandcamp.  Favourite songs include Is Not Everything Morbid, Keep The Nightmares Out, The Mind Created A Monster, & Blind Bends.

#17 Velvet Starlings - Technicolor Shakedown 

Half an hour of scuzzy rock n roll from California.  They have retained their pop sensibilities (I’m sounding a bit of a pretentious wanker - sorry sometimes happens when I put my reviewer hat on) . There have been many other great bands plowing a similar groove this year - notably Liverpool’s Mondo Trasho but Velvet Starlings have come up with an album’s worth of engaging rock songs that fly past and leave you with the urge to put it on repeat.  Favourite songs include Can't Control, She Said (She Said), Technicolour Shakedown & Checkmate.

#16 Louis & The Shakes - How Badly Do You Want It? 

London based Louis and the Shakes have dreams of the Wild West and like contemporaries Mondo Trasho and Velvet Starlings, their sound is scuzzy desert rock.  I've been enjoying their songs for the last twelve months ever since I first heard the classic Snake Hips.  The hits kept coming and this album is a blast of fun and perfect excuse to unleash my air guitar moves when I think no-one's watching.  Favourite songs include On One, Snake Hips, Losing My Mind, & El Dorado.

#15 The Poppermost - Hits To Spare 

Joe Kane is a one man Fab Four from Glasgow.  His love of the Beatles shines through on Hits to Spare which he recorded using period instruments and recording techniques.  Hunting for an authentic sound for the 14 Mersey-beat songs included on the debut album under the Poppermost name.  Early in the year I heard the EP A Piece of The Poppermost with four of these tracks on it.  Joe also sent me the Watermelon album - a previous project with a more psychedelic era Beatles sound but he’s restricted himself to the influences of The Beatles 1962-65 period for Hits To Spare.  Great fun and fantastically packaged giving a real sense that this album could be 60 years old.  Favourite songs include Get It Down, Can't Take That Away, Hits To Spare, & Laziest Fella In The Realm. 

#14 Sam Lambeth - Love and Exile 

As a frequent music journalist and reviewer for Louder Than War, Sam is always writing brilliant reviews of the music of the indie scene and is very supportive of everyone around him.  His own music is fantastic as shown on Love and Exile.  It’s a little bit country, a little bit rock n roll and a hand drawn CD cover is a class touch.  Harmonica, that voice, an acoustic guitar and a dash of the blues is all Sam needs to win you over.  Some songs include piano, drums and the good old electric guitar.  No-one is shouting “Judas” here!  Available on Bandcamp.  Favourite tracks include Dog Days Are A-Coming Again, The Scenic Route, The King (You And Me) & When Love Ain’t Enough.

#13 Jake Davey - What Did You Think Would Happen? 

A mesh of samples, a killer funky bass riff, crunchy guitars, some horns, vocals, a dash of swagger and some wacca wacca outro noodling and that's just the opening track of Jake Davey's debut album. I'm only on my second listen as it was released a few days ago.  A few songs I had heard before but it is mostly new to my ears and instantly agreeable.  I'm sure this album is going to grow on me over the next few months - Jake is a talented solo artist and he can play some awesome bluesy guitar.  Favourite songs include The Inner-City Lonely Child Blues, Looking Up (Getting Better), Foggy Weather, & Piano Thing.

#12 Novelty Island - How Are You Coping With This Century?

Light trippy songs, accompanied by gorgeous instrumental flourishes.  The singles Michael Afternoon and This Bird got me interested and I ordered the album which keeps finding it’s way onto my decks. It’s really a record that doesn’t want to be put away and rewards you each time you hear it. My favourite lyric remains “double-decker dodechahedron do”.  Favourite songs include This Bird, Yes, Jangleheart, & I’ll Sleep In April.

#11 Matt McManamon - Scally Folk 

Matt was formerly the frontman of The Dead ‘60s and this is his excellent debut solo album.  It is a boss collection of largely upbeat tunes, fiddles, flutes, a recurring theme of the Sea and personal lyrics about self reflection and restlessness.  There are moments here where the influence of Michael Head is undeniable and that’s never a bad influence to be under.  Standout tracks include Mulranny Smile, Gaslighting, Meet Me By The River, & Liberty Shore.  

#10 Joe Adhemar - Exhistential Dreadlocks 

It’s that man again with his fourth album since lockdown started.  It’s a mature album often angry at injustices, environmental destruction and dark futures.  There is melancholy when the anger has burned out but also hopeful messages.  The fact that Joe Adhemar has written two of my albums of the year and produced a third speaks volumes for his talents.  I just realised his Found Ourselves album was also released in 2021 which is another fine record.  Joe produced the Mind Aid charity single and has many plans to work with members of the new music community.  So Cheers Joe for your outstanding service to indie music in 2021. Exhistential Dreadlocks is available on Bandcamp.  Favourite songs include A Broken Bond, The Others, Indie Kid At Heart, and These Kids.  

#9 Starflyer 59 - Vanity

This was a bit of a surprise find - not even sure how I came across Californian Starflyer 59 last week but I'm happy it happened.  His releases go back to 1994 and there is a huge back catalogue to explore but why not start with his latest Vanity project?  Brilliant introspective songwriting and heavy use of droning keyboards and chiming guitars.  If you love Spiritualized  then you're gonna love this.  Favourite songs include Sunrise, Life In Bed, New Guitar, & Hey John.

#8 Afflecks Palace - What Do You Mean It’s Not Raining? 

Swirling noises, dog barks, intricate guitars, tunes and lyrics “Why are you wasting conversations on a pelican?” and that’s only the first forty seconds of the Afflecks Palace debut album.  They have switched from Roses tribute band to trading on their own compositions.  Each EP released has become highly sought after and the album collects many of their early songs together. Unfortunately the album doesn’t include Hello Is Anyone Awake? Which is my favourite and well worth a listen especially for the instrumental second half.  Jay has been busy working as a producer for Spirit of Spike Island label mates Pastel and Ava Carlyle.  The Afflecks Palace want to prove that indie guitar music is relevant in the Twenties and they have recruited and organised their fans into The Movement to support each Madchester release. Favourite songs include This City Is Burning Alive, Pink Skies, Forever Young, & We Can Be The Avalanche.

#7 Amends - Tales of Love, Loss and Outlaws 

A hard rocking Johnny Cash country alt-punk band from Western Sydney with their second album.  They tackle plenty of issues from aging, “I’m 29 and I can feel the decline” (just wait!), religion, “sin’s just a made-up word to keep us in line “, and imprisonment, “I try hard everyday to wipe the black spot from my name”.  Outstanding standout songs include Fighting A Losing Battle, Walking Backwards, It’s Been Heaven Knowing You, & White Bear Lake.

#6 Sky Diving Penguins - Sky Diving Penguins

The influence of The Beatles is stamped all over this magnificent album and the songs sound like uncovering some lost tracks from the late 60s.  There are other influences Nirvana, The Vines, Radiohead and the production and instrumentation is phenomenal here. I came across Sky Diving Penguins in the IYE inbox back in July and had to play them on my radio shows. It has been great to see many others feel the same and this is a very special album that rewards you with each listen.  Available on Bandcamp. Outstanding songs include About One Hermit, I Don’t Want, I Don’t Care, This Is Breaking Me Apart, & Tripping #9. 

#5 The Lathums - How Beautiful Life Can Be 

A modern classic album produced by James Skelly.  A top collection of songs, some of which pre-date the pandemic and a range of styles mixing together.  As an occasional stumbler over words I’m always impressed by Alex Moore’s speedy vocal flows. These four lads from Wigan, scored a number one album in the UK and proved there is a market for the indie guitar music.  There is so much talent out there to be discovered so just maybe the tide might be turning.  Favourite songs include Fight On, I Know That Much, Oh My Love, & How Beautiful Life Can Be.

#4 Moonlight Parade - What If 

The third album from the mighty Moonlight Parade who are one of my most played artists this year. What If features the a-sides and b-sides of the three singles released this year plus four fantastic new songs. The Moonlight Parade have a timeless quality and great musical chemistry.  Their sound seem effortlessly plucked from the ether.  I’m sure they put in a lot of hard work but it sounds so natural.  No physical release is planned yet but it’s sure to be snapped up if it is.  Previous album Caught In A Wave was released on vinyl in early 2021 and Moonlight Parade are largely responsible for my revived vinyl collection over the last 12 months.  You better hope my wife doesn’t read this lads! Favourite songs include White Horses, Brother, You Know Me Better, & 🏆Amsterdam🏆 (Voted as best song of the 2021 #Indie100cup).

#3 Apollo Junction  - All In 

Apollo Junction have been constantly releasing great indie rock songs over the last two years.  Seven of the eleven tracks on the album were singles and I’ve loved each of them.  So on the day of All In’s release, I discovered the track listing and it read like a greatest hits for the past two years and I immediately ordered the vinyl. It’s beautifully packaged with cut out bus windows and blue and white vinyl with a secret track. The title All In came from their decision to give up their jobs and try to make it as a full time band for their second album.  Everyone says they always have time for their fans and have a great social media presence which has helped win and build a loyal fan base.  Favourite songs include Rooftops, Borderlines, When We Grow Up, & Forever.

#2 The Shop Window - The State of Being Human 

I reviewed this album in full on my blog here The State Of Being Human Album Review.  That remains my only in-depth album review in the six years I’ve been writing a music blog.  But to summarise it - it’s my kind of jangling indie with quality songwriting from Carl with a few co-credits for Syd.  And another band with a great musical tightness between the members.  Like many of the acts in this list they are always on the socials, promoting themselves and others in the new must community or just having some pointless banter.  The album is an emotionally charged record, full of reflective moments, songs about happiness murmured in dreams, and indie anthems influenced by Ride, The Roses, Teenage Fanclub, The Cure and a host of others.   New single Lay Of The Land indicates the Maidstone Massif have hit a rich vein of form and will probably be bothering my albums of the year lists for as long as I’m making them.  Favourite songs include Out Of Reach, Flags, Evacuate, & Break Down Walls.

#1 The John Michie Collective - High Vibrations

John Michie has a great knowledge of music from classic rock to contemporary weirdo indie.  Dubbed King of Wonky it is no surprise that High Vibrations is a modern take on Phil Spector and Pink Floyd recorded on bedroom equipment.  I was blown away when I played this album and have been told repeatedly by John that this is just the start and wait for the next one! John is currently selling off his vinyl collection to upgrade his home studio equipment and his guitar collection before starting to record his third album.  It’s been great chatting with John on Twitter this year and was a pleasure to interview him on my radio show.   He released two albums this year, the second ambient album Towards The Rainbow, wasn’t my bag baby, but was well received by the chill out community.  High Vibrations is a real treat for your lug holes as the sounds swirl around your brain - perfect for headphones but I’ve been cranking it in my car’s CD player all year, chin stroking and occasionally singing along with my son on our way to football.  This has been my most played album of 2021.  Favourite songs include The Mothership, I’ll Write Your Constellation, Beautiful Day & Wish You Were Dead.

Albums to get excited about in 2022 

Next year I'll be looking out for album news from these acts... The Shed Project,  The Heavy North, Sunzoom, Senses, Dean Dovey, Jay Tennant, The Empty Mirrors, & 3 Little Wolves.  

Mixtape Oct 21

 This month there’s a bunch of great music to shout about but I’m picking twenty songs that have piqued my interest over a variety of styles and genres - there’s something for everyone and everything for everyone if your minds are open and you’re not too fussy!  Bandcamp links attached because guess what happens on Friday 1st October?

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Oct 21 Spotify Playlist 

1) Devil’s Advocate by Louis and the Shakes

“You won’t like what you hear” according to, erm presumably Louis.  He’s wrong of course, you’ll love it. This is taken from their debut album fresh out the traps.  Louis and the Shakes are a London band who have been releasing banging indie blues songs for the past year and five of those appear here alongside some new songs to my ears.  It’s a great album, soon to be released on vinyl and titled “How Badly Do You Want It?”  Quite a bit in my case.   www.louisandtheshakes.com

2) A Broken Bond by Joe Adhemar

The opening song from Joe’s fourth album is an instant classic and is released in time for the long awaited return of the Bond franchise.  The narrator is a jaded assassin reflecting on his life as a killer for the state.  Apparently, this is closer to how 007 is portrayed in Ian Fleming’s novels than in the movies.  I only read one Bond novel - I was 11 and it bored me.  Anyway back to the music.  This is only available on Bandcamp at the moment and it’s Bandcamp Friday on 1st October so do yourself a favour and buy Joe Adhemar’s Existential Dreadlocks to own this and nine other excellent songs of dystopian pop. Joe will also be my special guest and help pick the songs on my next DAFT POM radio show on 16th October.  Joe Adhemar's Bandcamp page

3) Silver Morning by A Ritual Sea

Image a song built around the opening minute of The Smith’s Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me and hauntingly sung by angelic sirens.  The mythical creatures not car alarms.  That’s the closest I can come to describing Silver Morning, the closing track on their self titled debut album.  It’s another excellent album available to stream or buy on bandcamp if the mood takes you.   A Ritual Sea's Bandcamp page

4) Burn by Oh! Paulo 

A magnificent song that sees Oh! Paulo layering his vocals as he sings of laying fires around himself.  The song ignites in the final third into a full blown choir of Culter Loons singing about burning it all down to the ground. A Caravan of Love for Pyromaniacs.   Oh! Paulo's Bandcamp page

5) Greaseballs to Glitter by Baabes

Sleazy glam punk from Boston who sound like a modern version of the New York Dolls.   Baabes' Bandcamp page

6) Parallel Love Affair by Big Image

The first single under the new identity of Big Image.  The band previously known as Ivory Wave hadn’t released anything since 2019 to my knowledge.  Check out this new baggy banger and their previous material now collected on the Dream Nights EP.  This Midland’s based band are like a Happy Mondays for the Twenties.

7) I Won’t Lie by The Lathums 

I don’t suppose anyone reading this hasn’t discovered The Lathums but I wasn’t going to leave them out.  I won’t lie is one of the four songs I hadn’t heard when the album was released and it’s an upbeat indie pop romp that reminds me of The Housemartins.  The album is obviously excellent so make sure you own it.  They are about to take out #1 in the UK album charts which can only be a good thing for the revival of indie guitar music.  The Lathums talent and dedication is pushing them into the major leagues and that deserves to be celebrated. 

8) I Don’t Want, I Don’t Care by Sky Diving Penguins 

This has been out on Bandcamp for a few months but now also released on other streaming sites.  The Sky Diving Penguins lead their return to music with this piano driven Beatles-esque slackers song.  There’s also a weird back story explained on their website.  https://skydivingpenguins.com/biography 

This story could not be independently fact checked! Anyway it’s the music that counts and expect more coming ahead of their album next year.   Sky Diving Penguins' Bandcamp page

9) Wookie by Gomrund

An artist I discovered whilst compiling the playlist for the #AtoZNewIndieMusic challenge on Twitter.  This task has taken up much of my life this month! I hope to find time to listen to everything but it’s already passed 1000 songs so that’s unlikely. Anyway Wookie is a big beat banger full of beats, riffs and squelchy bits.  Top drawer!  Gomrund's Bandcamp page

10)   Colors on the Canvas by Velvet Starlings 

Taken from the new album Technicolor Shakedown, this L.A. Psychedelic rock band are becoming firm favourites with everyone who hears them.  This song is a bit more hippy Sixties Doors than the majority of the album but it’s great to find that they can play a variety of styles.   Velvet Starlings' Bandcamp page

11)  Bleak Midwinter by The Pretty Petty Thieves 

The Cornish indie rockers have just released their debut album and it’s jangling guitars to the fore.  Bleak Midwinter has a hints of Johnny Marr’s Hand In Glove about it.  Ones to watch!

12) Shoot Me Down by Perry Manning 

“You can shoot me down, but you’re never keep me down”   Perry Manning’s latest is unconventional.  A voice reading a poem with an acoustic guitar and some strings.  It’s a captivating performance and yes he had my attention on the first of several plays.

13) This Bird by Novelty Island

Keeping the strumming acoustic guitars, strumming are Novelty Island with their trippy song about birds with Beatleesque Edward Lear nonsense lyrics.  I’ve used Beatlesque more than once in this blog.  I don’t think I’ve ever typed it before and I certainly don’t know how to spell it.  But it’s undeniable here and you would be forgiven if you thought George Harrison was playing the electric guitar towards the end.  Novelty Island's Bandcamp page

14) Danger Man by Dojo Rise

Adelaide’s finest reggae band have released a five track mini album A Better Place. Three previously released singles are joined by two new cuts.  Some fine Aussie grooves to combat stress.  Dojo Rise's Bandcamp page

15) Tunnel Vision by Leigh Thomas 

Melbourne based, Leigh Thomas with a beautiful downbeat acoustic song.  It’s a lament on love, life and the universe with some wonderful blues guitar licks towards the end.   Leigh Thomas Bandcamp page

16) Summertime Sadness by The Empty Mirrors 

The Empty Mirrors are more prolific than rabbits.  It’s yet another gorgeous song.   The Empty Mirrors Bandcamp page

17) Animals by Cat Dowling

Cat Dowling with a devilishly catchy love song.   Not sure if wild animals do much hand holding but otherwise I can’t fault it. New album available to pre-order.  Cat Dowling's Bandcamp page

18) Need The Needle by Graeme The King of Bispham

A topical hard rock song about Covid vaccination jabs and whether you need one to survive or obey?  Personally my body’s a temple and I wouldn’t risk experimenting with… no hang on a minute I’m thinking of someone else.

19) Rat Race (Parker Rework) by Alright 

Blackpool’s Alright with a fabulous new version of Rat Race with a critique on why we’re trapped in the rat race and afraid to risk following our dreams.  

20) What You Heard by The Deepshakerz and Rowetta 

It’s a bloody dance floor banger sung by Rowetta - what more do you need to know?  It’s got a hypnotic groove and it will make your rump shake.  Play it loud!

You Need More Indie Music???

The next round of the #Indie100Cup will be 10am (UK) Sat 2nd October on InYourEarsMusic.com 

 

If you're still seeking more new music then I suggest you dive into Old Indie Kid's 2021 Playlist           

which has over 1500 fresh songs from 2021.

Finally if you want podcasts of my radio shows - find them here. My Radio Show Podcasts 

And don’t forget Bandcamp Friday!

Mixtape Sept 21

I find myself struggling to keep up with all my new music commitments at the moment so I’ve avoided the latest Twitter top ten challenge to concentrate on getting my blog out.  Twenty new music recommendations described and collected in a playlist. Hope you enjoy the songs and my ramblings.

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Sept 21 Spotify Playlist 

Elizabeth Quay (a.k.a. Betty's Jetty) Perth, Western Australia

1) Sleep by Ddouble Impactt & John Your Mate

John Your Mate has created a dark brooding dub tinged trip hop track and enlisted Ddouble Impactt to bring the lyrical flows.  The theme is sleep, the lack of it and the perils therein.  It’s a cousin to Faithless and Massive Attack and just as awesome.

2) I Worry About My Health and Caffeine Intake by Lossline 

The excellent new song from the purveyors of new miserableness.  The sound of early onset middle age accompanied by a long list of negative doubts and self criticism.  Health issues, the aging process, diet, attitude, anger at self serving politicians and dealing with the endless corridors of routine.  It’s an infectious tune that demands repeated plays and its another high tempo song which is unusual for a song wallowing in self pity.  Stop the press! Lossline have just released a follow up called Case History.

3) Friends in High Places by Narcissus featuring Becki Fishwick 

They have reunited again with terrific results.  You may recall their previous collaboration Cuttin Through Red Tape and seek it out if you’re unfamiliar with that one. This time there is a James Bond vibe with sultry vocals and killer bass line and orchestrated music that promotes Narcissus out of the usual indie leagues into the next division.  This is a phenomenal piece of music that I can’t stop playing. You’ll find them on Manchester’s 42s Record Label and this single marks them out as one’s to watch.  If there was an indie music fantasy football league I’ld be starting them in midfield. I think I’ve stretched the football analogy too far now! 

4) Morphine Dream by The Empty Mirrors and Robert Severin

The Empty Mirrors have been making some brilliant singles this year and are definitely pushing themselves in interesting directions.  There is a dreamy feel and recurring dream theme in their songs - check out their earlier releases Camel Train with Jenny Stevens and Kaleidoscope City with Bruno Rocha. Anyway they seem to release a new song every week but I’m fascinated by Morphine Dream at the moment.  There is great imagery and hints of 1980 David Bowie dressed as a sinister clown circa Ashes to Ashes.  I hear Robert Severin - a Glaswegian Hungarian has recorded other songs with the Empty Mirrors so the future is bright, the future is retro! 

5) Lemon Tree by Enola Fall

Enola Fall have become my favourite Tasmanian band this year.  ( Don’t tell Quivers).  This song has gorgeous guitars that echo the sound The Edge was making on The Joshua Tree.  It’s a similar sound that Oh! Paulo captured on his original version of Take Us Higher.  I’m rambling on a bit this month and easily distracted so back to Enola Fall. Lemon Tree is a beautiful sounding song which I have no idea what it means but the lyrics also remind me of The Cure.  So congratulations Joe - you’ve done it again.  I’m happy to float away on the thermals and be lost in A Forest of Joshua Trees.  

6) Hope You Are Well by Adult Prom

This band I discovered whilst accidentally looking for someone else but what a great find.  They come from Salt Lake City, Utah and this is the opening song on their new album - Mild Horses.  Not to be confused with the band Mild Horses.  Actually yes you should confuse them just like I did. Hope You Are Well is a spooky and sweaty waltz-time Wurlitzer gem that will get under your skin if you let it. 

7) Waiting for My Life to Start Again by David Nyro

Staying in the US over in Seattle is an artist by the name David Nyro who has created this epic song dealing with a life on hold.  The song connects on different levels - to some it will resonate given current pandemic restrictions but it also relates to an introvert in emotional retreat pondering whether the time has come to brave personal interactions and break free of the prison of their mind. 

8) Down The Line by Tom Bright 

I seem to have missed the rise of Tom Bright but he has now come to my attention via this tearjerker.  His voice catches a few times as he sings a song of lost love.  The acoustic guitar strumming with the backing slide guitar licks penetrate the soul and when the strings come in I’m gone.  It reminds me of the excellent song by Death In Vegas called Killing Smile which also breaks hearts with acoustic guitars and strings. So I’m late to the Tom Bright party but I am following him now and he has already released another far out song with the intriguing Amateur Astronauts.

9) The Confidence of Ignorance by Blokeacola 

Yet another infectious trippy song from Blokeacola.  He’s included his som on the recording which must make him the youngest musician to feature on my blog. The lyrics are endearing and relatable and one off the key themes is mood swings and emotional torment. However it won’t get you down because it’s a psychedelic SFA style indie pop song.

10) Is Not Everything Morbid by Joe Peacock 

Joe Peacock has teamed up Joe Adhemar as producer and the first results from this pair of Joeys is in.  I love the way this song builds up adding new instruments one by one.  There’s Beatlesesque noises I can’t even place, a funky bass, jazzy piano and Joe’s vocals as he tells the story of Djuna Barnes. Joe explains more on his own blog called JoeOnMusic.tumblr.com  This is my new favourite from Joe Peacock and I’m pleased to announce Joe will be joining me as a guest on my next Daft Pom radio show. 10am on Saturday 18th September on InYourEarsMusic.com 

11) Firebug by 3 Little Wolves

3 Little Wolves are also joining me on the next Daft Pom show to talk about their recent activity and pick some banging tunes.  Speaking of bangers Firebug is up there, it’s harder and faster than anything you’ve heard from them yet.  A buzz-saw siren guitar shatters preconceptions, pounding drums, synths and a killer chorus.  This unexpected punky number is like Joy Division on speed.  It’s backed by three more tracks so find some time and check it out.

12) Hurricane by Jet City Sports Club

Sydney’s Jet City Sports Club have released a follow up to their brilliant September Sun EP with another epic.  Hurricane shifts from calm minimalism to howling swirls of grunge guitars and drums.  A wonderful and distinctive vocal performance throughout elevate this to the next level.  Hopefully they will soon be out of the NSW lockdown and able to resume their band life.

13) Bullet 4 You by Louis and the Shakes

A crooner from the London band taken from their album How Badly Do You Want It, that comes out at the end of September. It’s available on vinyl if you’re interested.  Check their socials for a 25% discount codec.  Louis and the Shakes have released five singles since the end of last year and if bluesy cowboy indie Gonzo rock appeals to you then check them out.  

14) Regret You by Revivalry

The new song from “those pesky kids” is a fast paced blast of poppy rock and the band sound tighter than ever.  Another reviewer (sorry forgot who) recently said that Connie is sounding like Debbie Harry on this new song and as I can’t top that description, I’ll have to repeat it.  I hope to hear What Revivalry did on their Summer Holidays soon when their radio show returns. 

15) Like A Rolling Stone by Royal Chant

A great faithful cover of a Dylan classic by Australian band Royal Chant with extra fuzzy guitars. It’s the lead song taken from a marvelous new 3 track EP.  Give them a follow on all the usual platforms. 

16) Better Days by The Crooks 

The Crooks have toned it down on this latest released,  adding piano and strings to their acoustic guitars and produced something of an anthem.  I’m writing this as I listen for the first time and I have a good feeling about this one.  It’s their best song of the year and fits snugly alongside the acoustic / orchestral mixes of In Time and She Walks Alone that came out on The Crooks, Vol. 2

17) Is It Worth It Anymore? by High Tropics

Another downbeat world weary anthem that would have you waving lighters in the air if the theme of despondency hasn’t robbed you of all motivation.  Seriously through, this is a great song to stroke your chin to but their won’t be any moshing.

18) Wayfaring Stranger by Anthony McElwee

An excellent traditional cover from the Scottish Donovan (@MobyTanner TM).  It’s the Johnny Cash version of this song that I am most familiar with from American III Solitary Man but Anthony McElwee does it justice in his own wistful style.  

19) The Overload by Yard Act 

Leeds electro rockers return with another fun filled romp filled with unpleasant characters and dark humour that is gaining them a significant following.  

20) Heard It On The Radio by Loops & Loops

Love this 2 minute ode to hearing a new song on the radio and how it makes you feel.  I hear many of these tunes on the inyourearsmusic.com radio where I help select the best songs from D.I.Y. Artists as well as doing a fortnightly show on Saturdays.  So listen to the artists recommended here and then listen to our brilliant radio station.  

Right I’ve got to finish this blog as I won't be in a fit state tomorrow.  

Have a great weekend. Cheers Danny

Mixtape August 2021

 My monthly blog celebrates 20 recent tracks and also the return of Bandcamp Friday on 6th August.  All those albums and singles you had your eye on can be snapped up on this day to maximize profits to the artists.  The majority of the bands are UK based so they will be emerging from their lockdowns into the blinding lights of gigs, festivals, toilet touring circles and the UK live music scene is finally back.      

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape August 2021 Spotify Playlist 

Alten-8 Rave and Mask pioneers (not featured this month)

1) One Way Ticket by Gorstey Lee Street Choir

This is a track taken from their excellent new album ...from Princes's Park to Farsley (Volume I) mastered at OX4 Sound Studio by Ride's Mark Gardener.  The band are old friends who reunited to create these songs.  I could have picked almost any song on this album but I'm drawn to the Dark Side Of The Moon vibes of One Way Ticket which includes some classic quotes from a popular Mod movie.  The Gorstey Lea Street Choir bandcamp page 

2) Pull by Sean Buckley featuring Chris James Willows 

This is another excellent collaboration from the instrumentalist tunesmith Sean (A.K.A. Mintball) and Chris James Willows who adds a vocal performance worthy of Thom Yorke.  The combination is spellbinding and thus musical magic is created once again!    

3)  Week After Week After Week by Rhys E

A song about clubbing and tiring of repetitive music and conversations.  It opens with helicopter and a funky bassline before a pulsating beat worthy of Working Men's Club kicks in.  Crap club nights have never sounded so fun.  A great follow up to Find It On The News.           

4) Run It Down by Invisible Squirrel 

The Invisible Squirrel, no doubt inspired by the Olympics, has got back on his hamster wheel and knocked out a tune for the joggers who go round and round and round his park.  If you like exercising to relentless beats, with lyrics about running then you can't go wrong with this track.  There is repetition but also development on this track which has hints of The Police and Hot Chip. 

   

5) Mother Mania by ELYXIR & Neilio

It's back to the Eighties on this high tempo, guitar led, tech noir synthwave tune.  This is the debut single from ELYXIR, a Melbourne based artist who has collaborated with UK producer Neilio to create this hooky blast of disco angst.   Elyxir's bandcamp page

6) A Day In The Dam by The Shed Project

Whilst this tune is well known to me I'm including it here for those that are yet to discover the trippy wonders of The Shed Project's craziest single yet.  The production on this song is as high as the Sheds whilst "Mooching" yes "Mooching" 'round the Dam taking in the sites, smells and tastes.  The sound effects of trams, cycles and calls to "Come inside" really set the scene.  It's another leap forward in songwriting and at the two minute markit reaches a Beatlesesque A Day In The Life / Revolution #9 moment before the trip really kicks in for the final minute of hectic percussion and guitar licks.  Whilst the lyrical content has seen it shunned by some lesser radio stations it will surely find a place in the hearts of all those that are a bit partial. I could say so much more about this but I will leave you with the video which is dedicated to their friend Michael Rex Henighan who passed away recently. R.I.P.

 

7) Song For Cammy by Tom McGuire and the Brassholes 

The Scottish funk soul outfit’s wonderful heartfelt tribute to their dead friend Cammy R.I.P.  Rarely if ever have I heard a more uplifting song about the loss of a friend.  This is not only a wonderful song but also contains fantastic advice. Tom McGuire and the Brassholes' bandcamp page

8) Little Picture Without Sound by Senses

Senses have released this stripped back beautiful track to the amazement of all who have heard it.  It's challenging their previous singles as their best song yet.  There will be a beefier version on the album with I'm led to believe a bit of killer guitar.  But for now we have this version and it's powerful enough to bring a tear to the eye of the most cynical music fan. If you haven't secured your copy of the Senses debut album then get over to  Senses bandcamp page

9) Lights Out by Silver Haar

Glasgow’s Silver Haar, could give Losslines a run for their money in the new miserable stakes, but there’s plenty to wallow in here.  Lights Out is the title track of their debut EP which is full of catchy choruses, harmonies, indie guitars, synthesised strings and all the right influences.  The Smiths, The Cure, J&MC, Radiohead and The War On Drugs can all be heard if you squint hard enough.  It’s a very strong collection of songs so check out the whole EP and maybe support them with a purchase on their bandcamp site. Silver Haar's bandcamp page . 

 

10) Mirror Mirror by Dictator

The Dics are back with another great tune.  Mirror Mirror deals with the dark side of social media addiction and the need for constant validation of your fabricated image. The vocals are sublime as you’ld expect from Dictator but the rest of the band are more involved than the last few releases. The Dics never disappoint and keep us guessing as to their next move - except when they announce it in their weekly newsletter.  How many bands do that? 

11)   Freedom Belongs To Him by Megan Black

Opening with a slinky bass line, some jazzy vibes and dirty guitars riffing throughout the song, Megan’s stunning voice soars especially during the song’s rock’n’roll climax.  Megan Black is one to keep an eye on! Megan Black's bandcamp page

 

 12) Fading (Swim Deep) by Ava Carlyle

Ava’s debut single was written and produced by James Fender of Afflecks Palace.  It’s a great tune and showcases Ava’s gorgeous voice which has a touch of Mazzy Starr to my ears.  Ava’s been entertaining us with her YouTube videos this year - just her voice and an acoustic guitar.  It’s a winning formula that has been retained for her first record.  There is light instrumental elements, backing vocals and minimal percussion but Ava’s voice is front and centre.

13) Sun It Shines by Oh! Paulo 

I’ve just counted and this is the sixth Scottish artist in my blog this month.  It surely demonstrates the strength of the Scottish underground in 2021.  It could also mean Ricky Spence’s Daily Bangers is very influential!  Anyhoo, I’ve been a fan of Oh! Paulo’s since December and he is another that impresses with his acoustic covers on YouTube - able to reinterpret a classic song and make it his own.  Sun It Shines is a heavier affair, but it’s catchy, joyous and two minutes long.  Almost as long as the Great British Summer! I’m actually jealous having endured the wettest Australian July in 25 years with a tree falling in my back yard and the garage roof leaking.  Enough of my problems, let Oh! Paulo warm your cockles!  Oh! Paulo's bandcamp page

14) Games by Emilia Quinn ft FINOLA 

Emilia Quinn makes great Americana music out of Leeds. New song Games is a prime example as Emilia sings of escaping a bad relationship and kicking his arse to the curb. Americana is not a genre I usually dabble in but this is high quality, sassy and really rocks.  Emilia Quinn's bandcamp page

15) State Of Mind by Marseille

Marseille have nailed the early jangly Stone Roses with this release. I explored their back catalogue - two other singles at this stage and there is also a clear Oasis influence to their sound.  State of Mind is five minutes well spent.  Check out this fabulous acoustic version.

16) You Are My Drug, I Am Yours by The Tom Biddle Band

I think I first heard a demo of this song on Sam Shiner’s VPC Introducing but it has now got an official release. Aside from the Scottish bands there are also a number of, shall we say, mature bands and artists on my blog this month.  I raise it as an observation of my own evolving musical tastes.   The Tom Biddle band are from Lancashire and are planning to release their debut album soon.  They also have at least ten great classic covers on Spotify recorded live or in studio rehearsals.  The Tom Biddle Band's bandcamp page

17) That Summer by Kelly Cresswell &  Colin Guthrie 

Kelly is a NHS nurse who began singing on social media last year.  She has a wonderful voice and That Summer is her second release, after the bluesy Try single.  It samples British birdsong which I haven’t heard in years so it instantly transports me back in time.  It ends with some light Spanish guitar presumably from Colin Guthrie.  That Summer is a beautiful love song with a good sense of humour. What’s that line about having a face for the radio?  Guilty as charged! Kelly Cresswell's bandcamp page

18) Free of This Disease by Jai Agnish

This song was a grower on me.  It’s a fairly minimal arrangement with centred on Jai’s vocal, a drum machine and a synthesiser.  It draws you in and rewards multiple listens.  Jai is based in New Jersey and has returned to his musical career after a break of 13 years.  This song appears to be about battles with addiction rather than the Rona. There’s some raw lyrics here and it won’t be for everyone but it might resonate with some of my readers. Jai Agnish's bandcamp page

19) Weather Vane by Emperor of Ice Cream

The new single from the Cork band is a huge tune propelled along by in your face drums, funky bass noodling and hurricane guitars.  There’s a great pop chorus at the heart of the song with wonderful  harmonies oohing and aahing giving it a dreamy feel despite the thundering music of a band that have taken things up another level.  The theme is overcoming relationship difficulties. Whilst accusations are thrown around, and a list of grievances are aired, they still hope it’s worth fighting for.  The songs on previous releases including the debut album No Sound Ever Dies (now available on a second vinyl pressing) were all written years ago and polished up for release.  Weather Vane is the start of their second chapter as the first newly written song to emerge from the band.  Fans of Nineties Shoegaze and contemporary indie rock will adore this song, as will anyone else in possession of ears and taste.  Weather Vane is available to pre-order from their Bandcamp site and will be released later in August. Emperor of Ice Cream's bandcamp page

20) We The People by Jonny Ash

I’m finishing my blog with another monster hit of the future.  Jonny Ash have recorded a beast of a rock n roll tune with We Are The People.  It’s out on the 13th August and can be pre-saved here…  https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/jonnyash/we-are-the-people-4 

Catch Jonny Ash in September in the North of England on their joint tour with The Perps. 

In Other news...

The next round of the #Indie100Cup will be on Saturday 7th August on In Your Ears Radio.  Moby & I will be shaking things up and trialling Quickfire Qualifying rounds so tune in if you want to influence the vote.

If you're still seeking more new music then I suggest you dive into Old Indie Kid's 2021 Playlist           

which has over 1000 fresh songs from 2021.

Finally if you want podcasts of my radio shows - find them here. My Radio Show Podcasts 

And don’t forget Bandcamp Friday!

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape July 2021

 

Hot on the heels of my June 2021 entry comes the next blistering installment of my new music roundup. Twenty hot tracks from various genres to give you a soundtrack for whatever you’re up to.  As always please support the underground artists in whatever way you can sharing their music, attending a rescheduled gig or purchasing their music.  

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape July 2021 Spotify Playlist 

1) Gotta Hold On Me by Mondo Trasho

I’ll admit it me a while to get into this band but I was instantly won over by their third EP called Pure Trash.  This lead single is a 2 minute blast of unhinged 1960’s garage Gonzo rock.  “Oh yeah, she’s gotta hold on me”.   Mondo Trasho's bandcamp page 

      

2) Hold You Back by Quivers

Tasmanian band Quivers harness some Motown vibes on this wonderful track taken from the Golden Doubt album that is packed with jangly pop hits including Gutters of Love, When It Breaks and You’re Not Always On My Mind. The Golden Doubt album is available now on Quivers bandcamp page.

3) Sparks by Jay Tennant 

Jay always delivers quality tunes and his new album is gonna be outstanding given the string of singles he’s released in the last year - Star Chasing, Star City Serenade, Noxville, Spectre and now Sparks. Jay’s got the indie "Midas Touch" which explains why he never takes his shades off. Jay Tennant's bandcamp page  

4) Droid by Invisible Squirrel 

The Invisible Squirrel is an enigma - instrumental in the development of dance music since the Eighties.  He has literally been holed up during lockdown in a tree, scratching his nuts and plotting his next move.  Releasing big beat tracks under his own name for the first time.  Invisible Squirrel has, for the time being, dropped his recent alter-ego (pretending to be a human indie recording artist) to focus on his dystopian acid house bangers.  I wanted to know more about the identity of the Invisible Squirrel and I did find this piece of investigative journalism on the dark net giving the lowdown on this dance rodent's activities.  Just Who Is The Invisible Squirrel?

5) Dirty Town by Jenny Colquitt

This is a beautiful song with great production - Jenny’s emotive vocal is the star here. Jenny is a top new talented singer songwriter from Widnes that deserves much wider recognition than she’s currently getting.  A star in the making.   Jenny Colquitt's bandcamp page

6) Pride or Shame by Paul Nixon

The latest in a long series of indie anthems from PN.  

It reminds me of The Importance of Being Idol by Oasis and it ends on a huge sing-a-long "la la la" outro that is sure to be extended when played live.  Paul Nixon's bandcamp page

7) Save Me by Jen Dixon

Winner of the Best Solo Artist in the In Your Ears Radar Awards!  Jen’s latest single showcases her wonderful voice as she ponders falling and considers whether she will be caught?  This is a reoccurring theme in her first four singles.  With all the songs about falling, crashing and drowning you’ll never guess Jen was a keen surfer.  Jen Dixon's bandcamp page

8) Let Me In by Senses

The fourth single released from Senses this year and they’ve demonstrated different sounds on each of them.  Let Me In has some shimmering sounds that flicker around your headphones whilst the emotional lyrics  plead for the girl to “Let Me In”, offering unconditional support and outstretched arms.  Senses have announced that all the profits from their debut album will go to two charities - MacMillan Cancer Research and Crisis UK.  Please support these worthy causes and bag yourself a blinding debut album here…  Senses bandcamp page

9) Broken Window by Lewca

Lewca gives us his take on the crazy world of Donald Trump and Brexit whilst pondering if their is any hope in the future.  The bleakness of the lyrics is contrasted with a chipper bouncy tune that would sit nicely alongside Lily Allen’s LDN or Smile.  This is just one of the five brilliant new tracks included on Lewca’s third EP Geezer Pop available to purchase on Lewca's bandcamp page .

10) Because You Hate To Care About by A Ritual Sea

A Ritual Sea are a excellent band from Dublin and Paris who play synth and guitar based shoegaze with fantastic female vocals.  They have a debut album arriving in the autumn and several other singles to check out here... A Ritual Sea's bandcamp page

11) Middle Something by Tijuana Cartel 

Taken from the Acid Pony album.  This Australian band mix Middle Eastern sounds with flamenco guitars and beats creating chilled instrumentals - perfect for relaxing by the sea.   Tijuana Cartel's bandcamp page

12) Old Days by Hiaground 

Four guys from Sydney rocking out with some cool Indie rock n roll. The song is about enjoying the present with the knowledge that in the future you will look back on these times when they become the good old days.  

13) Creatures of the Night by The Stone Apes

Laidback Aussie rock to soundtrack your heady nocturnal adventures stumbling around in the Outback. I also love that it mentions the Great White Buffalo - the one that got away!  

 

"Great White Buffalo!"

 14) Hanging Around by Moonlight Parade

Moonlight Parade hit the beach in their best Summer swimsuits whilst playing a jangling song about a girl who’s whereabouts are of interest.   It has echoes of the Beach Boys and The Thrills with harmonies and I think they’ve stepped up another level with this one.  I doff my bucket hat to them.   Moonlight Parade's bandcamp page

15) Perfume by Andy Bell

The Ride frontman has released an EP of acoustic versions of some of the tracks on his debut solo album. It includes this cover of a indie classic from 30 years ago Perfume by Paris Angels.  Manchester's Paris Angels released one album before splitting up and their guitarist Paul Wagstaff resurfaced in Black Grape and the reformed Happy Mondays.   Andy Bell's bandcamp page

16) Stephanie Said by Subterfuge 

Velvet Underground vibes here with a strum-a-long song with humorous lyrics.  Subterfuge are from Düsseldorf and have been together for 30 years on and off.  They’re new to me and this is the first song from their forthcoming album The Dots.   Subterfuge's bandcamp page

17) Rose Pink Cadillac by Dope Lemon

Now for an old favourite of mine, the legendary Angus Stone’s Dope Lemon have a groovy laidback tune out about a pink Cadillac. Effortlessly cool.

 

18) The Sun Hasn’t Left by Modest Mouse

Taken from the excellent new Golden Casket album  - the first Modest Mouse album in over six years. Great lyrics as you’ll expect “friendships are just a chain of texts” for example.  This song is about looking for the positives despite the messed up world we live in.  

19) Moto by King Brown 

Imagine if the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club opened a Western Australian Chapter…

Well it would sound epic and you don’t have to imagine it  - you can listen to it on the debut 6 track EP titled Out in the Desert.  Moto is the lead track on this collection and packs plenty of riffs into its octane fueled rock n roll.  But don’t stop there, let the EP play and discover the rest of the tunes.

20) No Good by The Heavy North

Indie blues from deep within the Mersey Delta.  From the band that won almost every category at the In Your Ears Radar Awards, comes more greatness.  Kenny croons “You make me feel like I’m no good” on this excellent new single.  It’s another soulful track that gets a digital release on 2nd July.  Their big news is their debut album Electric Soul Machine due in January 2022 will be available to pre-order from 05/07/21 with a limited vinyl run planned. Don’t miss out!   The Heavy North's bandcamp page

In Other news...

If you missed the most glamorous night of the indie calendar you can catch up here on YouTube with the In Your Ears 2021 Radar Awards Show

If you're seeking even more new music then I suggest you dive into Old Indie Kid's 2021 Playlist           

which has over 900 fresh songs at the halfway point of the year.

And finally if you want to listen to podcasts of my radio shows you can find them here. 

My Radio Show Podcasts 

Mixtape June 2021

Welcome to June - it’s almost July as I write this introduction.  I’ve been writing this blog on and mostly off for the last four weeks so it includes a number of songs that have been out for a while plus a two that aren't available on Spotify yet - which I'll add later, if I remember.

My previous blog was an album review for The Shop Window debut which is out on 25th June.  If you missed that then check it out here…The State Of Being Human Album Review

I’ll be hosting the #Indie100Cup Chart Show InYourEarsMusic.com on Saturday 26th June from 10am (UK time).  Listen in as I reveal the Top 40 indie songs as voted by the Twitter Music Community.  The Cup isn’t over yet but as we are half way through the year I’ll bring you the best popular unpopular songs from the first half of 2021.  

Enough cross-promotion, time for 20 reviews and recommendations in the continuing saga that is my new music blog. 

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape June 2021 Spotify Playlist 

1) Tangerine Dream by Alright
A wonderful strum-a-long from this new band about their upbringing in Blackpool, the streets, the people and a desire to leave.  The Tangerines is the nickname and colour of the kit of Blackpool FC.  “We’ve been living in a Tangerine Dream, but that’s not, that’s not enough for me”.  A great debut and one to watch.

2) Emily by Lossline

Brilliant single from this new Manchester band. It has a similar theme to Tangerine Dream’s song - trapped in a dead end town and no way out.  Whilst family and friends have moved on they are stuck there.  Maybe Alright and Lossline could arrange a house swap? I’ve gone back and listened again to Lossline’s previous releases and they’re really growing on me. Further essential listening are their songs Streetlights and Ready Welcome.  

3) 84 by Bad Money

A trip to the past - the Mid-Eighties - it’s full of 80s cliches and pop culture references.  Heaps of fun in an idolised 3 minute blast of Back to the Future era day-glo nostalgia.

4) For My Friends by Super 8 

I’ve only recently discovered Super 8 but I’ve already been inducted into the inner sanctum of the Super 8 fan club and want to share the music I’ve discovered there.  

Trip is another prolific singer songwriter producing his songs in Trippy Towers and simultaneously working on two albums.  Super 8 creates some brilliant songs like this example - a distant cousin of The Beatles All I Need Is Love.  A song for his friends - befriend him on the socials and it can be a song about you. Super 8's Bandcamp Page

5) Golden by George Rowlands 

George Rowlands has been gathering a large following on YouTube posting cover songs and singing as Liam in Oasis tribute bands. Last year he released his debut EP of original material and this song is taken from his forthcoming second EP.  It’s a quality song that starts with a strum-a-long guitar, hand claps and a killer vocal singing about the old days, footy in the streets, tunes on the jukebox and a fond remembering of his youthful days.  It’s a well written song which acknowledges times have changed but George raises a glass to his friends from his armchair who are still golden. Stay gold Pony Boy.  

6) Trauma and Grace by Feverjaw

Soaring guitars, driving percussion and great harmonies “Don’t waste your time, seize the moment” urge the South Wales  rock trio on a single taken from their forthcoming debut album All Bets Are Off available for pre-purchase here.  Great band - get into them. https://feverjaw.bandcamp.com/album/all-bets-are-off

7) No Place to Hide by Shocks

Northern Ireland’s Shocks play great rock n roll with metallic tasting guitar riffs. This is another talented trio that rock hard and have the tunes.  A Feverjaw and Shocks double header would be a fantastic gig one day! 

8) Manchester, You’re My Heaven by Ollie Winder

Ollie has just released a three track EP led by this ode to Manchester dedicated to the 22.  It has a Ten Story Love Song vibe with added beats.  Ollie is perfecting the art of the short indie pop song where 2 minutes is considered a long track.  This is his eighth single of 2021 and also includes a funky Begging You like track called All Across The Sky.

9) Slow and Steady by Blokeacola 

Blokeacola specialises in trippy melodic melodramas with dry humour in the lyrics and daft humour in his videos.  This is like the psychedelic furry animals and it’s well worth exploring his previous releases if this whets your appetite. Blokeacola's Bandcamp Page 

 

10) It’s Been Heaven Knowing You by Amends

A song told from the perspective of a long term inmate. Amends are a New South Wales band mixing punk country and indie sounds whilst channeling the rebel spirit of Johnny Cash and the longing for redemption.

11) Hang Glider (Bubby Style) by Lewca ft The Geezer Choir.  

One of the best cover versions ever recorded in my humble and well sought after opinion.  It helps when the original in a much loved slice a laid back indie pop brilliance taken from Moonlight Parade's  outstanding Paint The Sun EP.  Lewca scoured the world, assembling some of the finest untapped talent of their generation to provide the terrace chants on his cover version.  The cover is faithful to the original in some ways but where Moonlight Parade’s original is like sipping a fine wine, Lewca’s version is more snorting chemicals at a rave with the Geezer Choir leering and sneering over the chorus.  The song is available to buy on Lewca's Bandcamp Page with all profits from sales until the end of June going to Cancer Research.  Also check out the video below which is a homage to the original but features a Parisian punk rapper and a couple of bucket headed buffoons.  

12) Don’t Be A Fool by Lonely Lost Boy is the debut single from Dundee based artist Gordon Hennessy.

It’s jangly country pop and sung with a distinctive warbling vocal delivery.  Gordon’s played in plenty of bands but after writing a stack on songs during lockdown he has decided to launch his solo career.

Give him a follow on the socials and streaming sites so you don’t miss his future releases.  In fact that obviously applies to everyone here.

13) Patriot Song by Art Block

Here’s a song that demands your attention.  It’s a little reminiscent of History by The Verve - perhaps it was the mention of The Thames flowing through both songs but it’s a good reference point.  The strumming acoustic guitar and violin accompaniment builds well as Art Block sings a love poem to his city and takes his listeners on a meandering tour of the sights and feelings that are invoked along the way.  It’s a beautiful song that deserves all the acclaim it has received since release. 

Art Block's Bandcamp Page 

     

14) Beautiful Day by The John Mitchie Collective 

This is the final single taken from the glorious High Vibrations album that was released in January.  John throws the kitchen sink at the mix and it’s all the better for it.  John’s a self taught studio wizard, in fact he might actually be a wizard?  He’s a fan of Brian Eno, Brian Wilson and anyone who would rather lace together musical snippets into something that rewards those who listen closely on their headphones.  John doesn’t plan to play this live so he is free to create amazing soundscapes.  Do yourself a favour and listen to his debut album in the dark on the best headphones you own. 

The John Michie Collective Bandcamp Page

15) Blu by Pastel 

Swirling and jangly belter of a new song from Manchester’s Pastel.  “Strung up and quartered, blood’s thicker than water, It’s getting better and higher than this”. Does it have a deep meaning- probably not but it does it’s job of being a choon! 

16) Dreams, Schemes and Young Teams by Shambolics

Shambolics have released some brilliant singles over the last few years and this is another fine example of the Scottish band’s talent for crafting guitar based indie-pop ear worms.  I’ve just noticed they are managed by Alan McGee so they should be in safe hands.  

17) Meet Me By The River by Matt McManamon

A song dreaming of a reunion and second chances with a rendez-vous by the River Mersey.  Taken from the new album Scally Folk https://mattmcmanamon.bandcamp.com/album/scally-folk

18) The Madhouse by Crimson Bloom

A new acid funk bonkers bongo fest, celebrating the club culture of your youth “Red Stripe, Blue Monday”.  Pete’s guitars are spot on here and it’s a huge indie-dance tune.  It’s part of a four track ep that’s already been released on bandcamp.  It includes a version of last single The Storyteller sung as a duet between Andy and Jen Dixon. There is a limited edition 10 track CD which compiles recent singles and remixes. Buy it on the Crimson Bloom Bandcamp Page.

19) Find Another Way by Shark Star

Shark Star recently announced he was retiring from making music due to his hearing loss making it almost impossible to continue working as a recording artist. He is returning to visual arts projects.  Shark Star has signed off with a beautiful song that encourages the listeners to pick themselves up and find another way.  I only discovered Shark Star’s music in April but Thanks for the music Shark Star and good luck.

20) The Scenic Route by Sam Lambeth 

The final track from Sam’s debut solo album Love & Exile is a thing of wonder - Sam begins the song using his acoustic guitar and piano that we have all become familiar with during his entertaining isolation recordings.  Sam sings about the end of a relationship, and the mixed emotions that he’s feeling  “Was I born a bad seed, that my soul can outgrow?” as he leaves it behind taking the scenic route through life.

It reminds me of Find The River by R.E.M. which is one of my favourite songs.  This is a well constructed opus that clocks in at 6:30 but never outstays it’s warm welcome. A limited edition, WWF Chariety CD with Sam's hand drawn animals is available on Sam Lambeth's Bandcamp Page  

I'll be back with another blog next month but tune in to my Chart Show on InYourEarsMusic.com