tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72759616756253222682024-03-13T11:31:01.356+08:00Old Indie KidMy monthly new music blog. Always on the lookout to discover and share upcoming bands. Est. 2015Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-84492480520726609292024-02-11T14:02:00.004+08:002024-02-11T14:02:53.880+08:00Time Travelling MoFo - Musical Years<p> I picked up the nickname of Time Travelling MoFo from Andrew Johnson (17th President of the United States) and have used this title to record a mix of my favourite music from each year between 1963 and 2062. The genres of music depend on the year you can hear all sorts within these mixes from pop, rock, psychadelic, reggae, rap, new wave, dance, flip flop hop, or dubzebra revival. I believe there is always good music in any yaer if you're prepared to search for it within this timeframe. Most mixes are around the 2 hour mark and I try not to repeate artists in the same year. I will update this blog with links to all my shows as they appear online. </p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNOSTagd_Jv-MnmYY2VPI0OXPLfCeSZLGhquuUDrD1MgxfFupdve-n-QMI61yhSokn3-u0jQWhvhh28vO8eMXJGOVUIdkkyytW5VRyUhhxSG6iVP76IJJncq42yEeT0Qkl1RzNEaOT5mLyntJrn2Qhk0WdhcodSsOO6oan1C4GqBljFBX7GLkYwVLAoo/s695/time%20machine.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="574" data-original-width="695" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNOSTagd_Jv-MnmYY2VPI0OXPLfCeSZLGhquuUDrD1MgxfFupdve-n-QMI61yhSokn3-u0jQWhvhh28vO8eMXJGOVUIdkkyytW5VRyUhhxSG6iVP76IJJncq42yEeT0Qkl1RzNEaOT5mLyntJrn2Qhk0WdhcodSsOO6oan1C4GqBljFBX7GLkYwVLAoo/s320/time%20machine.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Prototype time machine with extra large turntable </div><br /><p></p><p>THE SIXTIES</p><p>1963 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1963-mix-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 1963 Mix #TTMoFo by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1964 coming soon</p><p>1965 coming soon</p><p>1966 coming soon</p><p>1967 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1967-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo 1967 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1968 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1968-mix/">Time Travelling Mofo 1968 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1969 coming soon</p><p><br /></p><p>THE SEVENTIES</p><p>1970 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1970-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo 1970 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1971 coming soon</p><p>1972 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1972-mix-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 1972 Mix #TTMoFo by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1973 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1973-mix-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 1973 Mix #TTMoFo by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1974 coming soon</p><p>1975 coming soon</p><p>1976 coming soon</p><p>1977 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/in-your-ears-music-xtra-20211024-052132/">Time Travelling MoFo 1977 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1978 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/ttmofo-1978/">#TTMoFo 1978 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1979 coming soon</p><p><br /></p><p>THE EIGHTIES</p><p>1980 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/in-your-ears-music-xtra-20211020-134102/">Time Travelling MoFo 1980 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1981 coming soon</p><p>1982 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/in-your-ears-music-xtra-20211122-110245/">Time Travelling MoFo 1982 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1983 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofos-1983-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo's 1983 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1984 coming soon</p><p>1985 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/in-your-ears-music-xtra-20211106-033947/">Time Travelling MoFo 1985 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1986 coming soon</p><p>1987 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1987-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo 1987 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1988 coming soon</p><p>1989 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1989-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 1989 #TTMoFo by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p><br /></p><p>THE NINETIES</p><p>1990 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1990-mix-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 1990 Mix #TTMoFo 1990 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1991 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/in-your-ears-music-xtra-20211027-112320/">Time Travelling MoFo 1991 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1992 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1992-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 1992 #TTMoFo by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1993 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofos-1993-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo's 1993 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1994 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1994-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo 1994 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1995 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1995/">Time Travelling MoFo 1995 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1996 coming soon</p><p>1997 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1997-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo 1997 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1998 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/in-your-ears-music-xtra-20211112-113934/">Time Travelling MoFo 1998 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>1999 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-1999/">Time Travelling MoFo 1999 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p><br /></p><p>THE NOUGHTIES</p><p>2000 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2000-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo 2000 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>2001 coming soon</p><p>2002 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2002/">Time Travelling MoFo 2002 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>2003 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2003-mix-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 2003 Mix #TTMoFo by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>2004 coming soon</p><p>2005 coming soon</p><p>2006 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2006/">Time Travelling MoFo 2006 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>2007 coming soon</p><p>2008 coming soon</p><p>2009 coming soon</p><p><br /></p><p>THE TEENIES</p><p>2010 coming soon</p><p>2011 coming soon</p><p>2012 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2012-mix-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 2012 Mix #TTMoFo by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>2013 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2013-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo 2013 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>2014 coming soon</p><p>2015 coming soon</p><p>2016 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2016-mix-ttmofo/">Time Travelling MoFo 2016 Mix #TTMoFo by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>2017 coming soon</p><p>2018 coming soon</p><p>2019 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2019-mix/">Time Travelling MoFo 2019 Mix by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p><br /></p><p>THE TWENTIES</p><p>2020 <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofo-2020/">Time Travelling MoFo 2020 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p>2021 coming soon</p><p>2022 coming soon</p><p>2023 coming soon</p><p><br /></p><p>THE FUTURE (EMBARGOED FOR COPYWRITE REASONS)</p><p><br /></p><p>NOTABLE MENTIONS</p><p><a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofos-mixtape-1960-1989/">Time Travelling MoFo's Mixtape 1960 - 1989 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p><p><a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/time-travelling-mofos-mixtape-1990-2022/">Time Travelling MoFo's Mixtape 1990 - 2022 by In Your Ears Music | Mixcloud</a></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-75201249015493145792023-12-13T00:28:00.000+08:002023-12-13T00:28:06.335+08:00Albums of 2023<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div> 2023 has been another bumper year for albums on the independent scene. I've had to make some hard decisions to cull the list to just 30 and fear I've probably forgotten a few that could have made it. The order is entirely subjective etc etc. But all albums on this list are worth exploring if any of my short reviews piques your interest. I've included a Spotify playlist with a tune from each album to play whilst you browse through my ramblings. I've included links to purchase the albums where I found them and twitter handles (where they still exist) to engage with the artists and keep tabs on their future releases and gigs. Thanks to all the artists featured here for keeping me entertained and making the new music scene fresh and lively. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZShNUPezEIPCuX3DDhn7buAj0LaO7k0b0JfKNz1q5srFrQjLQUrLEM3shszgEW5x4DWrgpo0XP_VeK5CFfhJidgUOpBI5CkDNZ1Pb_XB_G7U9xe8VwpOb3GRTzQ2Am8wmPfhClkuBZWMk5WBgonJJznF1vDbDWwrYN0Ir9mLS1AjIjxrDUEX2Z14VZz0/s2820/IMG_6012.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2792" data-original-width="2820" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZShNUPezEIPCuX3DDhn7buAj0LaO7k0b0JfKNz1q5srFrQjLQUrLEM3shszgEW5x4DWrgpo0XP_VeK5CFfhJidgUOpBI5CkDNZ1Pb_XB_G7U9xe8VwpOb3GRTzQ2Am8wmPfhClkuBZWMk5WBgonJJznF1vDbDWwrYN0Ir9mLS1AjIjxrDUEX2Z14VZz0/s320/IMG_6012.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A few vinyls from my album list that have already arrived Down Under </div><div><br /><p></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="152" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/4Wapkkn6hT3xy6FYxNDBDY?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe>
<div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#30 Lulu - Hey Calamity </h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNAReHbPiRwX0cO0Y_qc4I89oRWF8qfoTsS-v2_B-HFqTKBbQDWVA-JQixh05Zh_-myA42ckO7nvhigI5g77ml50gxn1WKWSvRYIw4SMlMPkrhY5889rQ8rFx5pcSF_HC_6WckuEDvOUYl97dvJDN8_9nw21lCQTp1JowTpIaFcxX8ebffdAPLdlXcxg/s822/IMG_5868.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="818" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNAReHbPiRwX0cO0Y_qc4I89oRWF8qfoTsS-v2_B-HFqTKBbQDWVA-JQixh05Zh_-myA42ckO7nvhigI5g77ml50gxn1WKWSvRYIw4SMlMPkrhY5889rQ8rFx5pcSF_HC_6WckuEDvOUYl97dvJDN8_9nw21lCQTp1JowTpIaFcxX8ebffdAPLdlXcxg/w318-h320/IMG_5868.jpeg" width="318" /></a></div><p>Dave Thomas from South Australia has been very prolific in 2023 and released two albums this year in quick succession following from his debut in 2022. Urbania came out in October following Lulu's release in April 2023. A mixture of Shoegaze and Dreampop with a nod to the early records of The Cure which deserves the attention of your best headphones. A couple of songs feature the vocals of Emily Thomas including one of my highlights Soft Illusion. </p><div>Favourite songs: Soft Illusion & Saving Grace</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/HeyCalamity22">@HeyCalamity22</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://heycalamity.bandcamp.com/album/lulu">https://heycalamity.bandcamp.com/album/lulu</a></p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#29 Jake Davey - You Are What You're Spoonfed</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6IOXH5L1BWNXB7QgHLfFIUdsyTg3a9T-lrP3QmzBahqDu7MGaKuL5HaLWW2NCCJPX98dP3hsUCHLrJ_USmWKTeTLyN8vMZmgoEd11LJo7fx13vQPcvS_Zc0Wb2r6Zvp9Cfc1QVJeFRNLzS5qCVjDOthIhDKZIk7YtuBPSGadz23mme_y-SqutZiyb8Y/s812/IMG_5863.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="812" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6IOXH5L1BWNXB7QgHLfFIUdsyTg3a9T-lrP3QmzBahqDu7MGaKuL5HaLWW2NCCJPX98dP3hsUCHLrJ_USmWKTeTLyN8vMZmgoEd11LJo7fx13vQPcvS_Zc0Wb2r6Zvp9Cfc1QVJeFRNLzS5qCVjDOthIhDKZIk7YtuBPSGadz23mme_y-SqutZiyb8Y/w320-h318/IMG_5863.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Jake Davey's second album You Are What You're Spoonfed offers the listener plenty of wonderful songs that build up and capture your heart. Just listen to the totally underated music on Like Dynamite and Grind Our Bones for that laidback Seventies groove. </p><div>Favourite songs: Like Dynamite & Grind Our Bones</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/jakedavey_">@jakedavey_</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://jakedavey.bandcamp.com/album/you-are-what-youre-spoonfed">https://jakedavey.bandcamp.com/album/you-are-what-youre-spoonfed</a></p><p><br /></p></div></div><div><div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#28 As The Crow Flies - Kevin Robertson </h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhmQaZifD1y0LvjWcFXfaFEx1apCevnDwfgp8FXgNpJ-FRWu5KGQBragmf7OkwEPFw3CMxLzLSYde0fFcKdAkUzHNrUuI2ykSQnmbqHTo-9FvcHwMGj9JKdTlgz7e6IEdeDXuGJaEICGqsSFC2ul7rW-hymIxW8MDesNhJa1mcgH91qF1C2R-fS2yDoY/s853/IMG_5879.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="853" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhmQaZifD1y0LvjWcFXfaFEx1apCevnDwfgp8FXgNpJ-FRWu5KGQBragmf7OkwEPFw3CMxLzLSYde0fFcKdAkUzHNrUuI2ykSQnmbqHTo-9FvcHwMGj9JKdTlgz7e6IEdeDXuGJaEICGqsSFC2ul7rW-hymIxW8MDesNhJa1mcgH91qF1C2R-fS2yDoY/w320-h309/IMG_5879.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Kevin Robertson has followed up his excellent 2022 album Teaspoon of Time with another fine collection of melodic jangly pop with Magic Spells Abound. If you like the Cosmic Rough Riders this is in a similar vein. Kevin is also a member of Aberdeen band The Vapour Trails who have three albums in their catalogue.</div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Sunset & As The Crow Flies</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/KevinRo17521365">@KevinRo17521365</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://kevinrobertson.bandcamp.com/album/magic-spells-abound">https://kevinrobertson.bandcamp.com/album/magic-spells-abound</a></p><div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#27 Twenty-First Century Times - Joe Astley</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpSRgIAJPTKWZLkfaxmtGjKtYI3jDAeN_kS6DE3KXPh33ioyLRlXCif3QuJ0kWad01dXXsNHJ8oc3uzs8BXjGCohvSqQfmsh_LEWhg9krJEHAL4r_0HtB2GM_3zGkyBAnsTYATDm5_Q_Po5iSAoznEGeqFzEBueXKpxZAER4ZYQLEOEe-xaYHpHVdGIc/s805/IMG_5858.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="797" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpSRgIAJPTKWZLkfaxmtGjKtYI3jDAeN_kS6DE3KXPh33ioyLRlXCif3QuJ0kWad01dXXsNHJ8oc3uzs8BXjGCohvSqQfmsh_LEWhg9krJEHAL4r_0HtB2GM_3zGkyBAnsTYATDm5_Q_Po5iSAoznEGeqFzEBueXKpxZAER4ZYQLEOEe-xaYHpHVdGIc/w317-h320/IMG_5858.jpeg" width="317" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Released in January 2023 the debut album from Joe Astley collects four of his best singles released over the last few years alongside new material full of social commentary on the state of the nation. There’s a doff of the flat cap to Springsteen, Dylan, Shane MacGowan and Billy Joel. The sublime Anthem For The North is still the centrepiece and even gets a reprise here.</div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Anthem For The North & The Battle of Wigan Lane</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JAstleyOfficial">@JAstleyOfficial</a></p><div><p><br /></p><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#26 Get On The End Of It! - Laurie Wright</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLCFyWZkRDCgW-Q5KJ9Gtw6d46F-9x_4Kn-jT5kubz42Za_6hZhZb7_k3qhg5gAtM3SDEcbYPkBpZUiMdaqggf0LWA36j8o2UNEztcAYMq-uQlumVf4hFbQlh7cWihXdIq421LpOz5Kl-Adbc63JLPcil_h_jv7m13sfnS_buG0TR1UNx8sNYKdAbiQk/s814/IMG_5865.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="814" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLCFyWZkRDCgW-Q5KJ9Gtw6d46F-9x_4Kn-jT5kubz42Za_6hZhZb7_k3qhg5gAtM3SDEcbYPkBpZUiMdaqggf0LWA36j8o2UNEztcAYMq-uQlumVf4hFbQlh7cWihXdIq421LpOz5Kl-Adbc63JLPcil_h_jv7m13sfnS_buG0TR1UNx8sNYKdAbiQk/w320-h318/IMG_5865.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div></div><div><div><span style="text-align: center;">A loud raucous rock n roll debut album from London’s premier busking mod punk. This is one huge</span> redemptive riot of an LP from one of the new music scene’s brightest stars who almost burnt out but survived and used that to fuel his fire. If you’ve not heard of him then Laurie Wright is an artist you should discover today.</div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Butter Side Up Boy & Wings Of Gold And Platinum </div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/LaurieWright4">@LaurieWright4</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://lauriewright.shop/">https://lauriewright.shop/</a></p></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#25 Between The Lies - MantraRay</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoZOVFrn1p4PDM1VnKDmQkYT0nKq7-q_i3Rz8wHPyUH2WOsG_M6Ze-qlmripzI4VbUaJgQ_DhU2nSMPOtuMEHFGUT8DdLmR1VeWzfdZ6FvCkLwDd7tll7PW5HWU8nnV-KN0nC4xAdo1EIo5DoQDS45tKfq7sDej4S7224DD1WRfIQw7Z-BALVKSsucU8k/s960/IMG_5870.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="956" data-original-width="960" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoZOVFrn1p4PDM1VnKDmQkYT0nKq7-q_i3Rz8wHPyUH2WOsG_M6Ze-qlmripzI4VbUaJgQ_DhU2nSMPOtuMEHFGUT8DdLmR1VeWzfdZ6FvCkLwDd7tll7PW5HWU8nnV-KN0nC4xAdo1EIo5DoQDS45tKfq7sDej4S7224DD1WRfIQw7Z-BALVKSsucU8k/w320-h318/IMG_5870.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This second album has another great selection of indie rock and pop tunes on it. Topics include war, family, love, heartbreak and holidays in the Sun. Their self production has improved in leaps and bounds and I’ve written up a track by track review which can be found here <a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2023/11/mantraray-between-lies-album-review.html">oldindiekid.blogspot.com mantraray-between-lies-album-review</a></div><div><br /></div></div><div>Favourite songs: My Broken Heart & Just Like The Sun</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/MantraRay2">@MantraRay2</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://mantraray1.bandcamp.com/album/between-the-lies">https://mantraray1.bandcamp.com/album/between-the-lies</a></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#24 Woke Up - Andrew Johnson</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqmtVblatg-aElepG-OreBCotZNN-CnLnSbDoIQDBnB1TljaUbiT2luaJ0YJwb6odAQK3mwKgPcTvF03CExTAF6gGS0S2wF4AW6X4NNa3EKn7U4gx0qftIQibhxtB0VzGd6wr6Bwf6Gz9gZFkGiPWOXO92y_2HJAMxmRJZbh_YRRXcVg6vHat5bN2gLh8/s817/IMG_5869.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="817" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqmtVblatg-aElepG-OreBCotZNN-CnLnSbDoIQDBnB1TljaUbiT2luaJ0YJwb6odAQK3mwKgPcTvF03CExTAF6gGS0S2wF4AW6X4NNa3EKn7U4gx0qftIQibhxtB0VzGd6wr6Bwf6Gz9gZFkGiPWOXO92y_2HJAMxmRJZbh_YRRXcVg6vHat5bN2gLh8/w320-h318/IMG_5869.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Andrew Johnson’s Wake Up is in his own words “10th Generation, bargain basement, white man blues” with funky electro noodling. This is ten top examples of the new crossover genre Big Beat Blues with a mixture of poignant and humorous self deprecating lyrics. Cheer up Andy! Might never happen. </p><div>Favourite songs: Big Bad Dose Of You & 44 More</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Moonagement">@Moonagement</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://andrewjohnson1.bandcamp.com/album/woke-up">https://andrewjohnson1.bandcamp.com/album/woke-up</a></p></div><p><br /></p></div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#23 Mode - Mode</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1Ph6gb4EnfhbtehtcXn8Cpeelbw9u-cNi2rPDJuGuyDcmC8gO4fkCMEWk55xXP7jcoJ1nRkMjfwahMB3Nl7Zef_A2qTSOrlmzMf5fMeOondllYGpVXgrWgrYnLq0tB9af6ewQozauz8FDICVJo5O7yCuwZC0GeyakvGdBIfdpg-pN0BlGPiVJk7HmnY/s960/IMG_5875.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="953" data-original-width="960" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1Ph6gb4EnfhbtehtcXn8Cpeelbw9u-cNi2rPDJuGuyDcmC8gO4fkCMEWk55xXP7jcoJ1nRkMjfwahMB3Nl7Zef_A2qTSOrlmzMf5fMeOondllYGpVXgrWgrYnLq0tB9af6ewQozauz8FDICVJo5O7yCuwZC0GeyakvGdBIfdpg-pN0BlGPiVJk7HmnY/w320-h318/IMG_5875.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>From Adelaide, South Australia comes this five piece power pop Britpop band who self-released their debut album on vinyl in March. Mode mix the sounds of the Sixties and the Nineties with a New Wave influence and create some perfect pop music. If you enjoy their labelmates Cigarillo then you should check out Mode who also share singer-songwriter and guitarist Marc Garnett. This album isn't available on Spotify so head to bandcamp to hear and purchase it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Hold On To Yesterday & Rundle Mall </div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/EOTPRecords">@EOTPRecords</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/Mode06890031">@Mode06890031</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://modebandadelaide.bandcamp.com/album/mode-2">https://modebandadelaide.bandcamp.com/album/mode-2</a></p><p><br /></p></div></div></div></div><div><div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#22 The Long Way - Leigh Thomas</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGqqz5epHt0e6JmSSGCfYe6aEALyduqe9cfQHoX4mVs6844hCzCVohdosemDbfPBgVQpYDYUghuUzMwbskmhG94UVXrjvWIqPt-xZeeqUcRyQ3-bVOKe-gFLhyphenhyphenJx5Jv0wnX7yfjcPk5ogJI2FefmlS11cI_exnzxwIWFPyZWXlL_rAaq7NX2jXGsCKos/s960/IMG_5874.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="960" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGqqz5epHt0e6JmSSGCfYe6aEALyduqe9cfQHoX4mVs6844hCzCVohdosemDbfPBgVQpYDYUghuUzMwbskmhG94UVXrjvWIqPt-xZeeqUcRyQ3-bVOKe-gFLhyphenhyphenJx5Jv0wnX7yfjcPk5ogJI2FefmlS11cI_exnzxwIWFPyZWXlL_rAaq7NX2jXGsCKos/w320-h317/IMG_5874.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>An awesome album of thunderous Aussie rock. Big anthems, sing along choruses, great lyrics and melodic hooks to snare your interest. The Leigh Thomas debut album contains 3 previous singles and seven spanking new tracks including the bombastic Underground and my favourite the eco-warrior album closer Kids of Tomorrow. The Long Way album is a full face blast of classic contemporary guitar music from a talented singer songwriter and purveyor of total tunes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Kids Of Tomorrow & Higher Low </div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/LeighThomasAU">@LeighThomasAU</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://leighthomas.bandcamp.com/album/the-long-way">https://leighthomas.bandcamp.com/album/the-long-way</a></p></div><p><br /></p><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#21 Don'ts And Dos - The Radio Field</h4></div><div><div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLlNUgEMDfBNUJBGW8U6HzJHoLlrN-4k8YYBsoF1E3p8NGu7cVhDmXDt7ARZLbNlFC5qlH2vNvlpL2BuNSZM-NvajcOG0VmaNL7Ap3lnDKf1w6P0kfy-gbLJ8y0MbpQR9XRQoao0CbEUYnEB1a0Yk7WwDwoZlE-RP26vz_n7zOAgASUllxvkRl16mcIHs/s597/IMG_6034.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="592" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLlNUgEMDfBNUJBGW8U6HzJHoLlrN-4k8YYBsoF1E3p8NGu7cVhDmXDt7ARZLbNlFC5qlH2vNvlpL2BuNSZM-NvajcOG0VmaNL7Ap3lnDKf1w6P0kfy-gbLJ8y0MbpQR9XRQoao0CbEUYnEB1a0Yk7WwDwoZlE-RP26vz_n7zOAgASUllxvkRl16mcIHs/s320/IMG_6034.jpeg" width="317" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><p>Lars from Subtafuge formed a side project in Dussledorf during the lockdown which morphed into a fully fledged band playing breezey jangle pop. This is their debut album and its bloody great. </p><div>Favourite songs: Other One (featuring Phantom Handshakes) & Love</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/theradiofield">@theradiofield</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://theradiofield.bandcamp.com/album/donts-and-dos">Don'ts and Dos | The Radio Field</a></p><p><br /></p></div></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#20 The Only Light In This Tunnel Is The Oncoming Train - Afflecks Palace</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsB54ulvIU66KhaUWiFKfSShJBFOeWfKi73oEPkn5hZ-obS5So8vv_G1HMf3kJJcdcbUuJNXf8U2tqSSKkiZfwoUymDhUyy9WCFtDlY_c4Bz9YuyQaHN_xVKhiQ2UW0A-YOplTTwrzDUwxdCZt6bPfg62pcYBd-9vKKVoppX8R2mOVgAMc8H3grSGno9Y/s812/IMG_5857.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="812" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsB54ulvIU66KhaUWiFKfSShJBFOeWfKi73oEPkn5hZ-obS5So8vv_G1HMf3kJJcdcbUuJNXf8U2tqSSKkiZfwoUymDhUyy9WCFtDlY_c4Bz9YuyQaHN_xVKhiQ2UW0A-YOplTTwrzDUwxdCZt6bPfg62pcYBd-9vKKVoppX8R2mOVgAMc8H3grSGno9Y/w320-h318/IMG_5857.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Hazy jangle Pop introduced by a buzzing bee. Eighteen months after the excellent debut album, this second album from Afflecks Palace deals up another big batch of baggy tunes that I have personally road tested on the dance floor. </p><div>Favourite songs: Wide Eyes On The Night Bus & I’m So Glad You’re On Ecstasy </div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/afflecks_palace">@afflecks_palace</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://album.link/ThisOnlyLightInThisTunnel">https://album.link/ThisOnlyLightInThisTunnel</a></p><p><br /></p></div></div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#19 Unmask The Circus - Mark Sharp & The Bicycle Thieves</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCFqeEBXpMS6ivPYPb2ZZWNOL3s2kXvY9I7upYXzAyyjjbovK3LfZZyhkSExL48gLcWFiUdi9XIHm6a3x_lQefDRsARu6GMXJheP_-_YMO1oS10dn8fq7pQnyzOLnyWPxuyAZehT47XvGLsMqeD93I7Abo_ObKNpPeFJCD6txrNFaUAYf2Op2eIDC4cI/s815/IMG_5880.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="815" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCFqeEBXpMS6ivPYPb2ZZWNOL3s2kXvY9I7upYXzAyyjjbovK3LfZZyhkSExL48gLcWFiUdi9XIHm6a3x_lQefDRsARu6GMXJheP_-_YMO1oS10dn8fq7pQnyzOLnyWPxuyAZehT47XvGLsMqeD93I7Abo_ObKNpPeFJCD6txrNFaUAYf2Op2eIDC4cI/w320-h320/IMG_5880.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Hailing from the musical hotbed of West Lothian, Mark Sharp and The Bicycle Thieves released their wonderful debut album Unmask The Circus in August 2023 and it is a strong collection of great hooky indie pop and rock songs. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: All That Northern Soul & Sink Or Swim</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkSharpMusic">@MarkSharpMusic</a></p><p>Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/marksharpmusic">https://linktr.ee/marksharpmusic</a></p><p><br /></p><div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#18 Counting To Three - Portable Radio</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiBR90bSAM1XB314huEM_D8F40fgEeOUMECp-w78ByeYpo8KMvzPjPhSF0vDgptoZUlhYw23DZ3PSavBDX5D-3Sh09RPewacExGHyE3zDh89CIS6wAZSprjfxVx5T3IEdhoY66aZW-o_6lGr18lBNjXGDsziF8Vud-bEl-SH6LKFjCcdajV9h7jTkKbOM/s613/IMG_5886.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="599" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiBR90bSAM1XB314huEM_D8F40fgEeOUMECp-w78ByeYpo8KMvzPjPhSF0vDgptoZUlhYw23DZ3PSavBDX5D-3Sh09RPewacExGHyE3zDh89CIS6wAZSprjfxVx5T3IEdhoY66aZW-o_6lGr18lBNjXGDsziF8Vud-bEl-SH6LKFjCcdajV9h7jTkKbOM/w314-h320/IMG_5886.jpeg" width="314" /></a></div><br /><div>Manchester’s Portable Radio mix the Pop sensibilities of Supergrass with the harmonies of The Beach Boys in a joyful blast of pop hedonism drunk on Chipper Juice.</div></div><div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: I Feel Like A Dog & Good News</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/aportableradio">@aportableradio</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://wiaiwya.bandcamp.com/album/counting-to-three">bandcamp/counting-to-three</a></p><p><br /></p></div></div></div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#17 Here We Are - Apollo Junction </h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjILoxrI3aqSReTy6DDJs5d6LoI_DkhYulKP2V6lq-b-9IGkU1sC8msSl4VBewliXM3LVmgIQoCV17U6AiGO88h-_pvcFIpbDXJot40X4z5kNrIx1QLTvRwxEe-X7N47aefGUW-so5lH_dtbb2GaTN-6yqjMkpuuu7QCc7zjqbWjRMpgKXj9AuVVHUwwYA/s815/IMG_5856.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="815" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjILoxrI3aqSReTy6DDJs5d6LoI_DkhYulKP2V6lq-b-9IGkU1sC8msSl4VBewliXM3LVmgIQoCV17U6AiGO88h-_pvcFIpbDXJot40X4z5kNrIx1QLTvRwxEe-X7N47aefGUW-so5lH_dtbb2GaTN-6yqjMkpuuu7QCc7zjqbWjRMpgKXj9AuVVHUwwYA/w320-h318/IMG_5856.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Leeds band’s third album contains ten prime cuts of well produced 80s influenced indie rock anthems. There are moments which sound like The Joshua Tree with synths and everything is turned up to eleven. Each song has that lighters in the air, sing along, feel good factor. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: History & By The River</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ApolloJunction">@ApolloJunction</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.apollojunction.com/">https://www.apollojunction.com/</a></p><p><br /></p></div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#16 Pictures Of You: A Compilation of Covers of Songs by the Cure - Various Artists</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHlLm3-JkqzK46WEL_gjsMCfpoPi1Yw2l00a1y2GiSW6gf0tAPluMGbozKNCWW4inrybMMXrpydHU-_55n_MsOoDDuu6ybyX8pox64ph2Obv_j_iQC8ZsDE5g_Ybn7VGp9yTQKZguZRsqdFaKn0KxlGXIR9yeJ7e5ZcFDK2U_JIDiDxi8oLJWVHLlhAY/s960/IMG_5872.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="951" data-original-width="960" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHlLm3-JkqzK46WEL_gjsMCfpoPi1Yw2l00a1y2GiSW6gf0tAPluMGbozKNCWW4inrybMMXrpydHU-_55n_MsOoDDuu6ybyX8pox64ph2Obv_j_iQC8ZsDE5g_Ybn7VGp9yTQKZguZRsqdFaKn0KxlGXIR9yeJ7e5ZcFDK2U_JIDiDxi8oLJWVHLlhAY/w320-h317/IMG_5872.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>With 45 cover versions of one of my favourite artists I couldn't lose on this mental health charity indie compilation. I've picked out three favourites from artists I know but the whole album is brilliant.</p><div>Favourite songs: In Your House by dunkie, The Kiss by Pocket Lint, Just Like The Cure by Sean Buckley </div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Godisinthetv">@Godisinthetv</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://godisinthetvzine.bandcamp.com/album/pictures-of-you-a-compilation-of-covers-of-songs-by-the-cure">https://godisinthetvzine.bandcamp.com/album/pictures-of-you-a-compilation-of-covers-of-songs-by-the-cure</a></p></div></div><p><br /></p><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#15 False Starts, Open Endings - Katie MF</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhiPnXAeyJXmc9idVtwnVZz2t1xMRMmTknLeTwzq0p2RoYlzoQAi8JOSzqm1NwPgeAHT29fjEt_VL6ebAEWNzWNlDkovmICd2nqXxtEsC6WXohRBzZ6IYjHD1RHxP6gNGNT1UYgP0LkQREthashzx3Tbc2Irc1hg9s7nX2HdPWactQLBvkEPgnFNlIXt0/s608/IMG_5881.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="606" data-original-width="608" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhiPnXAeyJXmc9idVtwnVZz2t1xMRMmTknLeTwzq0p2RoYlzoQAi8JOSzqm1NwPgeAHT29fjEt_VL6ebAEWNzWNlDkovmICd2nqXxtEsC6WXohRBzZ6IYjHD1RHxP6gNGNT1UYgP0LkQREthashzx3Tbc2Irc1hg9s7nX2HdPWactQLBvkEPgnFNlIXt0/w320-h318/IMG_5881.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Katie MF is a London based artist with a punk ethos and a bucketful of talent. The opening song Lucky MF tells the story of her near death accident that nearly finished her off and her reactions to this traumatic experience. Katie brings infectious humour and anger as her songs take on the Tories, the patriarchy, sexism, and an errent piece of metal trying to take her fucking head off. </p><div>Favourite songs: Lucky MF & Confidence Crisis </div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/KMFLDN">@KMFLDN</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://katiemf.bandcamp.com/">https://katiemf.bandcamp.com/</a></p></div><div><p><br /></p></div></div></div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#14 Quasars and Fluff - Blokeacola</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7yxuc19zQMDp7YvNYu9LvymO5oijNG9H2bB4Tun5aNLEkGM-x_RV4BAgLmXG5BGoG-QQYiyaDt3898bpGnj0H_tzDOnNCQAevjoi56qR6ENYFRDUzWe5DhhyNk6ihXFieNH1a0-SyyaZQAQWU-NptQEC5Kf4iVMbs1FRai99enjIKr5sw6p-hgwAVmGM/s960/IMG_5871.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="960" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7yxuc19zQMDp7YvNYu9LvymO5oijNG9H2bB4Tun5aNLEkGM-x_RV4BAgLmXG5BGoG-QQYiyaDt3898bpGnj0H_tzDOnNCQAevjoi56qR6ENYFRDUzWe5DhhyNk6ihXFieNH1a0-SyyaZQAQWU-NptQEC5Kf4iVMbs1FRai99enjIKr5sw6p-hgwAVmGM/w320-h315/IMG_5871.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Blokeacola’s double album is well worth exploring. Inspired by the Beatles White album there are a variety of styles on this latest opus. His brilliant lyrics are always a pleasure to listen to and there is a strong Beck influence on many of the acoustic songs that adorn Quasars and Fluff. The difficulty here was picking highlights as each song you hear quickly becomes a new favourite. Not yet on Spotify so head to Bandcamp if you want a copy on CD on a digital download. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Favourite songs: Carrion & Troublesome Lie</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/blokeacolazero">@blokeacolazero</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://blokeacola.bandcamp.com/album/quasars-and-fluff">https://blokeacola.bandcamp.com/album/quasars-and-fluff</a></p><p></p><div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#13 Fires In The Night - 3 Little Wolves 🐺🐺🐺</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNH9VsmnQMvTjy5HJ1LD_23SoeHTFYjNIAs1aVQpBYSGuR91CDqxpKU7opI7qd3beNU0yaq4bauUcrQO9zubzgNRMypvee6N51EBsoX21eTkX0gOASvit1RfX4KtsMOeMhjhURaf-6-CPxlfUlXnRsF7PV-ikSnw2r_hOqZYuUmge1WqjqYXZ4Q0eJZTA/s807/IMG_5861.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="807" data-original-width="781" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNH9VsmnQMvTjy5HJ1LD_23SoeHTFYjNIAs1aVQpBYSGuR91CDqxpKU7opI7qd3beNU0yaq4bauUcrQO9zubzgNRMypvee6N51EBsoX21eTkX0gOASvit1RfX4KtsMOeMhjhURaf-6-CPxlfUlXnRsF7PV-ikSnw2r_hOqZYuUmge1WqjqYXZ4Q0eJZTA/w310-h320/IMG_5861.jpeg" width="310" /></a></div><br /><div>It’s been a real pleasure seeing how 3 Little Wolves have grown from their first official release in 2021 until the release of their debut album two years later. They have been busy in the transfer market and tinkering with formations but they keep improving. Really excited for their next album but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Fires In The Night contains about seven singles and many of them re-recorded to beef up the original sound with extra layers of guitar and keyboard. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Darkside & My House</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/3littlewolves1">@3littlewolves1</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://3littlewolves.bandcamp.com/album/fires-in-the-night">https://3littlewolves.bandcamp.com/album/fires-in-the-night</a></p></div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#12 Night and Day - Dub Shepherds </h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv72nur9ZRiJdVVkKlAUJWX4PftFkqlX0XCYMVoZ3bBfyA-kyzPvSZXjrI-TGHyFFjHqH36P71xHlN0A7LeFSfVKuMeKQ88ck75Pg2x2VLA0-61B8agXJRqgj8w6VihLHxlog4G6g636ORVWK_h_6nLdELTiXTmCQrvpHWH-5L5N8i8dpYUn9qAezj550/s613/IMG_5885.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="610" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv72nur9ZRiJdVVkKlAUJWX4PftFkqlX0XCYMVoZ3bBfyA-kyzPvSZXjrI-TGHyFFjHqH36P71xHlN0A7LeFSfVKuMeKQ88ck75Pg2x2VLA0-61B8agXJRqgj8w6VihLHxlog4G6g636ORVWK_h_6nLdELTiXTmCQrvpHWH-5L5N8i8dpYUn9qAezj550/w318-h320/IMG_5885.jpeg" width="318" /></a></div><br /><div>A French based reggae outfit I recently discovered via the Keep Yourself Nice podcast. They play dub reggae and it feels like a lost Seventies classic with great songwriting and chilled Island grooves. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Rebel Souls & Ain’t Coming Back</div><div><br /></div><div>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dubshepherds?mibextid=LQQJ4d">www.facebook.com/dubshepherds</a></div><div><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://batrecords.bandcamp.com/album/night-and-day-2">https://batrecords.bandcamp.com/album/night-and-day-2</a></p></div></div></div></div><div><br /></div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#11 HOOPLA - Super 8</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgqlLehOUXd1rURxl45e1QuxioEqVwuxgMYpxKoMdZrlJb_2ILqTtE8KoNnjs0-cAD9vnu4wACDC1iH9WiaX0sQYyx6lCgLf0LUc1wb4cHtZRmaFHPC2mXfFMBdqGaENOBOnxUjj4DLT1aHAW273hXKE3KwwES_1j86MHEuDDX7AXUCAgrOvlQ8428Fw/s820/IMG_5864.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="820" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgqlLehOUXd1rURxl45e1QuxioEqVwuxgMYpxKoMdZrlJb_2ILqTtE8KoNnjs0-cAD9vnu4wACDC1iH9WiaX0sQYyx6lCgLf0LUc1wb4cHtZRmaFHPC2mXfFMBdqGaENOBOnxUjj4DLT1aHAW273hXKE3KwwES_1j86MHEuDDX7AXUCAgrOvlQ8428Fw/w320-h315/IMG_5864.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Paul ‘Trip’ Ryan mostly records under the Super 8 name but he always has a few side projects on the go. Hoopla is a brilliant album a couple of years in the making and filled with twelve gorgeous indie songs. The influences include The Beatles, The Smiths, Teenage Fanclub, The La’s and Shack to name a few. I’ve played half of the songs here on my Daftpom podcasts and love this album. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Our Town & Moments In Time</div><div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/super_8_music">@super_8_music</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://trip8.bandcamp.com/album/hoopla-super-8-album">https://trip8.bandcamp.com/album/hoopla-super-8-album</a></p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#10 The Synesthete - Joe Adhemar</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykquBPOsXfLf6oFRPVfofL4wqiIDW3gDH5K6gXqhdwSso6iStXDl_zS2j9-t4l9e0B1OSAMTevS7bnh1g9e3aOEZuPGWnR3ApqbBqeE_NaFhSwz_lu-Y0UIAkLHmmMtBu0A958YFevByOFB8QfaLHL53dDm9f2_uRwQMyJ9-gz68QTz3D0rODpyTQL1w/s960/IMG_5876.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="960" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykquBPOsXfLf6oFRPVfofL4wqiIDW3gDH5K6gXqhdwSso6iStXDl_zS2j9-t4l9e0B1OSAMTevS7bnh1g9e3aOEZuPGWnR3ApqbBqeE_NaFhSwz_lu-Y0UIAkLHmmMtBu0A958YFevByOFB8QfaLHL53dDm9f2_uRwQMyJ9-gz68QTz3D0rODpyTQL1w/w320-h317/IMG_5876.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The album was released in February 2023 on Bandcamp and has since appeared as a series of EPs on streaming sites with a full extra b-sides thrown in. Another top collection of songs with headphone ear popping production from one of the new music scenes most thought provoking songwriters. The topics covered on Joe’s sixth album of the decade include calling for the youth to rebel, blocking internet trolls, Stranger Things, Tory incompetence and corruption, alongside more personal songs. This is a more guitar oriented album than the previous About The Soul thanks to collaborator and axeman Jim Sanger.</div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Hopper (ft Skylu) & Revolution By Hashtag</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeAdhemar">@JoeAdhemar</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://joeadhemar.bandcamp.com/album/the-synesthete">https://joeadhemar.bandcamp.com/album/the-synesthete</a></p><div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#9 Four Sides Of The Circle - The Mariners</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCmKEhcx1JCLIT5h6OnoSH6c0Imrr6Upt8CV24Mh4u-f47LYSLmZsC-2uHBjZWleN7xrOzALMFk2Bu1lytphDtdFjLgr6zA9KueTfBVRWHoXV4U3IVTnPwTrGgDTQDBHtvxa6Kpn9JSh-bpaJyKg5a83594KK8DlIRSV0r2zZmm3Mcv-buvtRSn4meC4/s960/IMG_5873.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="940" data-original-width="960" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCmKEhcx1JCLIT5h6OnoSH6c0Imrr6Upt8CV24Mh4u-f47LYSLmZsC-2uHBjZWleN7xrOzALMFk2Bu1lytphDtdFjLgr6zA9KueTfBVRWHoXV4U3IVTnPwTrGgDTQDBHtvxa6Kpn9JSh-bpaJyKg5a83594KK8DlIRSV0r2zZmm3Mcv-buvtRSn4meC4/w320-h314/IMG_5873.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Nottingham’s finest 60s throwbacks The Mariners have been very prolific this year. As well as releasing a Christmas CD they released their third album and a double one at that. The recurring theme’s are the passing of time, memories of the past and the changing of the seasons. There are too many songs to do it justice in this short review. But give it a listen and let The Mariners guide you on a journey once around the sun and up the garden path for a pot of tea and some lawn maintenance. Marvellous stuff! </p><div>Favourite songs: Autumn Will Come Soon & Bathley Street</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMarinersBand">@TheMarinersBand</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://themariners.bandcamp.com/album/four-sides-of-the-circle-album">https://themariners.bandcamp.com/album/four-sides-of-the-circle-album</a></p></div></div></div><div><div><p><br /></p></div></div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#8 Our Fear Is Their Power - The Shed Project</h4></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLeUuNBfDX1BwbcQfgyL3mqZuZomk_x1Lunayo9TXEdh1cr_783TRG7ICZgZxcOUFVwgreUd6DjsYSx8kZEKoOTqHcnaFnd2i-JUQC_oRiy87TU_PfGW2v0f45xl6xXP_QG9fh3jojAVI2bIinH4iu2y3_wu1sbiY4YAqtwVcK9FXkbsbnNfoyeyuRdJs/s892/IMG_5878.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="887" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLeUuNBfDX1BwbcQfgyL3mqZuZomk_x1Lunayo9TXEdh1cr_783TRG7ICZgZxcOUFVwgreUd6DjsYSx8kZEKoOTqHcnaFnd2i-JUQC_oRiy87TU_PfGW2v0f45xl6xXP_QG9fh3jojAVI2bIinH4iu2y3_wu1sbiY4YAqtwVcK9FXkbsbnNfoyeyuRdJs/w318-h320/IMG_5878.jpeg" width="318" /></a></div><br /><div>The Shed Project second album is a brilliant album commenting on the state of the world. Themes tackled include government corruption, the decline of Britains cities, the scourge of addiction and industry charlatans (not Tim Burgess & friends). </div><div>See my full track by track review <a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2023/10/the-shed-project-our-fear-is-their.html ">oldindiekid.blogspot.com/the-shed-project-our-fear-is-their-power </a></div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Naughty & Ghost Town</div><div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Project_Shed">@Project_Shed</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://theshedprojectuk.bandcamp.com/">https://theshedprojectuk.bandcamp.com/</a></p></div><div><p><br /></p><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#7 Your Cuckoo - Teenage Waitress</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DPxU8XjqEMRhGLsmf-LmEryi151NDbBSBlbpQFodRJ5RHed-F6g7c5M2wYKVfLb4j8oQlywqDvVp0NXnKlM1BNV3o176scEZrX-p6xq22mNwe2la4Y7n7ClrLSD-9yRW8evd7_0VlGk0qS3z68NvOJLk7QXchxUVmnIJjOUc5teTwkjGtnjFJDM-NCc/s808/IMG_5867.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="808" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DPxU8XjqEMRhGLsmf-LmEryi151NDbBSBlbpQFodRJ5RHed-F6g7c5M2wYKVfLb4j8oQlywqDvVp0NXnKlM1BNV3o176scEZrX-p6xq22mNwe2la4Y7n7ClrLSD-9yRW8evd7_0VlGk0qS3z68NvOJLk7QXchxUVmnIJjOUc5teTwkjGtnjFJDM-NCc/w320-h318/IMG_5867.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Southampton’s Daniel Ash is a talented songwriter and has created a fantastic second album with many songs reminiscing on youth and relationships. Great use of sound effects as alarm clocks, car indicators, crashing waves, seagulls and jangling keys all add to the ambience. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Grey Sky & Back Seat</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/TeenageWaitress">@TeenageWaitress</a></p><p>Vinyl: <a href="https://cargorecordsdirect.co.uk/products/teenage-waitress-your-cuckoo">https://cargorecordsdirect.co.uk/products/teenage-waitress-your-cuckoo</a></p></div><p><br /></p></div></div><div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#6 Little Pictures Without Sound - SENSES</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy3Agfby7Ts_klolT_ZDIhywBRlolITU1IiAm5fmbXd3H63naj4cB1yDov9uzalGF1GFtAliS6yxe9EHbRG6lrQE6-vHNbUoL0OumhOMuSkZ9v13af_egIU3AeKj95GOUAi9RLM1EFgsmeTls3VaMbiArwVLUHz4gzKeVDWf3OKK9o-qOsEErlRAGU_8/s813/IMG_5859.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="797" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy3Agfby7Ts_klolT_ZDIhywBRlolITU1IiAm5fmbXd3H63naj4cB1yDov9uzalGF1GFtAliS6yxe9EHbRG6lrQE6-vHNbUoL0OumhOMuSkZ9v13af_egIU3AeKj95GOUAi9RLM1EFgsmeTls3VaMbiArwVLUHz4gzKeVDWf3OKK9o-qOsEErlRAGU_8/w314-h320/IMG_5859.jpeg" width="314" /></a></div><p>The debut album by SENSES has been a long time coming. The band have been playing together since they teenagers but life mishaps kept getting in the way of releasing their debut album. Senses dusted off the decade-old recordings during the lockdown and decided to finish what they started. Little Pictures Without Sound was finally released on 42 Records in April 2023 to widespread acclaim. But when the music’s this good it’s worth waiting for.</p><div>Favourite songs: Drop Your Arms & Let Me In </div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/SensesCoventry">@SensesCoventry</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.musicglue.com/42srecords/senses">https://www.musicglue.com/42srecords/senses</a></p></div></div><div><p><br /></p></div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#5 Standard Patter - Fire Up The Sun</h4></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdGo2uGWoDCz_bgm3wCrUlWfVP_QsflK3Efpzkqbc3IcRcbxyRiSkwmApxeAvtYIm4nmrVqpSTXI_F9tiw5yuqV4DsuGNKgCCJe7GiYMNQEuvRaispaqdzlJ8Pn2tUkB4OdP9pacUpKYFLeZkvx9pOmIT3M8My-VW8pZRCSJDdIDuTyDIxfW_G_5KEsI/s830/IMG_5862.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="830" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdGo2uGWoDCz_bgm3wCrUlWfVP_QsflK3Efpzkqbc3IcRcbxyRiSkwmApxeAvtYIm4nmrVqpSTXI_F9tiw5yuqV4DsuGNKgCCJe7GiYMNQEuvRaispaqdzlJ8Pn2tUkB4OdP9pacUpKYFLeZkvx9pOmIT3M8My-VW8pZRCSJDdIDuTyDIxfW_G_5KEsI/w320-h314/IMG_5862.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>ArrCee & MC Burnoot are baldy white Scottish rappers who just don’t give a fuck. They ain’t in it for the money because they realise there isn’t any but it keeps them off the streets. After a number of EPs they have expanded to a debut album with ten quality well produced tunes, social commentary and very dry dark humour. There are guest spots for MC Bongo and Lewca as collaborators in the madness. I’ve been listening to this album regularly since its release in May 2023. Are you listening? Cause you fuckin should be! </div><div><br /></div>
<div>Favourite songs: Life Logistics & Last Orders</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/fireupthesun">@fireupthesun</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://fireupthesun.bandcamp.com/album/standard-patter">https://fireupthesun.bandcamp.com/album/standard-patter</a></p><p><br /></p></div><div><div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#4 Boombap for Boomers - Lewca</h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJZOF-QDJlhGc2gzADP791oLaN3SE6fdHg4tpSXKHMlkkhPbHhlmc0khNNktN5QeFFuen4QRMFmIGi21MXnEr3YdaJjDEHuqBSkzH-ujueV4yvtXXGj6zYYIKnGAGsS0gmb8xgNdO62TDSoy_-fWY-E1PC9EU9nWd9_0DLbfa-hBCzHnGr7FCO98L5AE/s891/IMG_5877.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="891" data-original-width="890" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJZOF-QDJlhGc2gzADP791oLaN3SE6fdHg4tpSXKHMlkkhPbHhlmc0khNNktN5QeFFuen4QRMFmIGi21MXnEr3YdaJjDEHuqBSkzH-ujueV4yvtXXGj6zYYIKnGAGsS0gmb8xgNdO62TDSoy_-fWY-E1PC9EU9nWd9_0DLbfa-hBCzHnGr7FCO98L5AE/w320-h320/IMG_5877.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Fire Up The Sun return the favour by appearing on Lewca’s album to rip the piss out of him on the first track. Lewca and S.O.A.P. (DJ Son Of A Pitch) return with a blinding album of tunes in a variety of genres that refuse to be pigeonholed. Lewca’s lyrics are humorous and poignant and really resonate with me as a Forty-Nothing Dad. Guest spots for OrangeG, Fayabraz, Mick Swagger and Dancehall Legend Elephant Man! I reviewed the album in more detail on my blog article below…</p><p><a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2023/09/lewca-boombap-for-boomers-album-review.html">oldindiekid.blogspot.com/lewca-boombap-for-boomers-album-review</a></p><p>Favourite songs: Roundabout & Monday Morning </p><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Lewca">@Lewca</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://lewca.bandcamp.com/album/boombap-for-boomers">https://lewca.bandcamp.com/album/boombap-for-boomers</a></p></div></div><div><p><br /></p><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#3 Delta Shakedown - The Heavy North</h4></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NCL9qrKy1c1QqFKxQ3613EwpEEOnataWMg0UT3O-4ybsifx7YHaAeZPxVP5UnqSD-Jm0sK1hGzyUWVwTB9r4k7X1JIDVKlJuqxaVdC7fosHa7bk6q1-NFw741383yPGFdDAkwGQn41n9gCxihxDDLm3L_8Z0Rk-C0eWb5vQvickeCqm36GuehvxNBgk/s815/IMG_5855.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="801" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NCL9qrKy1c1QqFKxQ3613EwpEEOnataWMg0UT3O-4ybsifx7YHaAeZPxVP5UnqSD-Jm0sK1hGzyUWVwTB9r4k7X1JIDVKlJuqxaVdC7fosHa7bk6q1-NFw741383yPGFdDAkwGQn41n9gCxihxDDLm3L_8Z0Rk-C0eWb5vQvickeCqm36GuehvxNBgk/w315-h320/IMG_5855.jpeg" width="315" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div><div>Blues n Soul n Rock n Roll is what we’ve come to expect from Merseyside’s Twelve Legged Groove Machine and this second album delivers in spades. You’ll be forgiven for mistaking the title song Delta Shakedown as a lost classic by The Doors. Next come the three singles that preceded the album each catchier than the last. When they slow the tempo they demonstrate their musical maturity and you are left in no doubt that you listening to a classic rock band at the heading for the peak of their powers. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Delta Shakedown & Where Are You Now?</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/theheavynorth">@theheavynorth</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://theheavynorth.bandcamp.com/album/delta-shakedown">https://theheavynorth.bandcamp.com/album/delta-shakedown</a></p></div><div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#2 Something About This Place - Thrillhouse</h4></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6EuMCPMd7oyFeAHyeXLmljCkDGr28Fe3JMNiT5JTAeQu7lEHO1_3YASq71M2_wqzvKmc47p0JGJuWyUkc23e7czUF-bAev7rFFnsUQrJLRAvHQhRYlG8uFqR-hqQsUqISKxgT_dj8afd_87zI5Om8fs0RzjM4CTuePe44RFMRlpbgwLQRga-FHzfmtx8/s831/IMG_5866.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="821" data-original-width="831" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6EuMCPMd7oyFeAHyeXLmljCkDGr28Fe3JMNiT5JTAeQu7lEHO1_3YASq71M2_wqzvKmc47p0JGJuWyUkc23e7czUF-bAev7rFFnsUQrJLRAvHQhRYlG8uFqR-hqQsUqISKxgT_dj8afd_87zI5Om8fs0RzjM4CTuePe44RFMRlpbgwLQRga-FHzfmtx8/w320-h317/IMG_5866.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>This is the long awaited Thrillhouse debut album - four years after the Brighton band started releasing dance tinged indie singles. For the album they have taken a different direction with guitars to the fore and a country rock tinge that nods at The War On Drugs, Bruce Springsteen and Dire Straits. The meloncholy songwriting is brilliant and reminisces about childhood memories, growing up and the passing of time. They used Kickstarter to fund their album's physical release on CD and Vinyl. Not sure if any copies remain but you can ask them if you missed out. They talk themselves down but they should be bigged up because Something About This Place is a triumph and a timeless record I can see myself enjoying for years.<br /><div><br /></div><div>Favourite song: So Far From Where I Started From & Butch Reilly</div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Thrillhouseok">@Thrillhouseok</a></p><p><br /></p></div></div></div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#1 Demons - Brownbear</h4></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVUryE_58LqU3qTJlHKRkkUoHYqlppUYMWyYnEs3c44puNtRQvChbTK6XGBBqWRBWRlCX9N1Le6d4r3ljlzCEDMELPBjratVWKxkrszcM0lND83rU9BXvK5bClqYLCOzfxGbEK0d9gwNdHtsnefuLAmDtwArfokNnyyQY-Z4YYXu_G6P9gkC-YEhEWIlk/s828/IMG_5860.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="814" data-original-width="828" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVUryE_58LqU3qTJlHKRkkUoHYqlppUYMWyYnEs3c44puNtRQvChbTK6XGBBqWRBWRlCX9N1Le6d4r3ljlzCEDMELPBjratVWKxkrszcM0lND83rU9BXvK5bClqYLCOzfxGbEK0d9gwNdHtsnefuLAmDtwArfokNnyyQY-Z4YYXu_G6P9gkC-YEhEWIlk/w320-h315/IMG_5860.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>What else could it be? An absolute classic album from the band from Ayeshire. This second album arrived five years after 2018's debut album What Is Home? Hopefully we won't have to wait half a decade for the follow up. Ten quality songs largely dealing with the ups and downs of relationships that pulls at your heartstrings, makes you want to dance, cry and sing along. This is all killer no filler territory and picking favourites from this album is very hard. There are no wrong answers! The music is influenced by acoustic indie, pop, northern soul, reggae and rock. There are less than 10 copies remaining on red vinyl if you hurry you might nab one for your record collection. </div><div><br /></div><div>Favourite songs: Unity & Telling Stories </div><div><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/BrownBearBand">@BrownBearBand</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://brownbear.bandcamp.com/album/demons">https://brownbear.bandcamp.com/album/demons</a></p><p>Buy the vinyl: <a href="https://assai.co.uk/products/brownbear-demons-vinyl-lp-due-out-17-03-23">Brownbear Demons Vinyl LP Red 2023 — Assai Records</a></p><p><br /></p><p>And that’s a wrap. Have a great Christmas and Happy New Year. I’ll be back in 2024 with a few more reviews and the return of the DaftPom Show on InYourEarsMusic.com </p><p>If you can’t wait for my December 2024 recommendations you can follow my new music playlist which I try and update twice a week. </p></div></div></div></div></div></div> <iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="152" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/4uLFq1ClC35QvLxfxASv3K?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-57287190723481023772023-11-28T14:04:00.000+08:002023-11-28T14:04:09.762+08:00MantraRay - Between The Lies - Album Review<p>The second album from MantraRay is an excellent collection of indie rock songs recorded over the last couple of years. Two years on from their debut album <b><i>Mantraray (The Collection)</i></b> they have pulled out all the stops for the follow up. Trevor Brill from Cardiff and Billy Raymond-Barker from Devon were once bandmates on the 90s London gig circuit but have reunited to record new material </p><p><b><i>Between The Lies</i></b> is released on 1st December 2023 on all good (and many bad) streaming platforms.</p><p>Bandcamp Friday is 1st December 2023 so all digital or physical CD purchases go straight to the artist who will kindly donate all profits for the album to mental health charities. </p><p><a href="https://mantraray1.bandcamp.com/album/between-the-lies">▶︎ Between The Lies | MantraRay (bandcamp.com)</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNzehs2X0tdjLxmMCJzcezmmwMM9CedBXIkN5vDpUH4gY6vtkfZBSm3MY31YfipeiERKPlTqInZ3xZwep_XllwgaWR5SquYgJr50Qhu7ZDoV5uF2p2wD4omheQ3YJZ9F_x4OU3ea1masSkuknlK9QH1HG1dY8gcNZtCj1cyYCiDalrNk74AhAuw1J6mo/s946/Mantraray.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="946" data-original-width="946" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNzehs2X0tdjLxmMCJzcezmmwMM9CedBXIkN5vDpUH4gY6vtkfZBSm3MY31YfipeiERKPlTqInZ3xZwep_XllwgaWR5SquYgJr50Qhu7ZDoV5uF2p2wD4omheQ3YJZ9F_x4OU3ea1masSkuknlK9QH1HG1dY8gcNZtCj1cyYCiDalrNk74AhAuw1J6mo/s320/Mantraray.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The album opens with a trio of new rocky numbers. <b><i>Rockstar</i></b> tells the tale of the big man who has outlived his fame and is clinging to the past whilst drifting into obscurity. <b><i>My Broken Heart</i></b> is unsurprisingly a heartbreak song if you listen to the lyrics but the music sneers at that genre and is played as a high tempo angry guitar rock song. <b><i>Filthy</i></b> takes things up another notch and vents at politicians who darken their door. There could be a few candidates on the recieving end of some well deserved verbal abuse come the next election. </p><p>A surprise faithful cover of <b><i>Plush</i></b> by Grunge legends Stone Temple Pilots is a real pleasure. It is the only cover they have ever recorded and they've rugby tackled a classic here and come up smiling. <b><i>Devil You Know</i> </b>(sadly not a Kylie Minogue cover - but I'ld love to hear that). This is a song about being stuck together in a relationship which you know isn't working and trying to end it. <b><i>Interlude</i></b> is a fifty second acoustic anti-war song. It's MantraRay's Elizabeth My Dear. It is followed by <b style="font-style: italic;">Sunflowers</b> inspired by an act of bravery of a Ukrainian woman who offered a Russian soldier sunflower seeds so something good would come from his death. This is the first song on the album that has been released previously and it also features the talents of Joe Adhemar on piano and backing vocals. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="358" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q56RwxXSlJE" width="430" youtube-src-id="q56RwxXSlJE"></iframe></div><br /><p>The second half of the album begins with the magnificent <i><b>Kaleidoscope</b></i> - a dark song with strings, beats, chruching guitars and plenty of aural treats. The message is take chances and live your best life. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Cuts Too Deep </i>is a Noel Rock style ballad if Noel wrote songs about being saved from suicidal thoughts. <b style="font-style: italic;">Forever Your Pleasure </b>is another previously released single featuring the elusive Invisible Squirrel dropping a handful of his winter cache of squelchy beats into the mix.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="357" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GPPZ1Ktq9ig" width="482" youtube-src-id="GPPZ1Ktq9ig"></iframe></div><br /><p><b style="font-style: italic;">Sorry Not Sorry</b> is a song about facing your demons and struggling with them. <b style="font-style: italic;">Lazy Days </b>however is a carefree song about enjoying your holiday and wishing it would never end. Complete with Mexican horns and the smell of aftersun lotion. It also features Speedy Gonzales on backing vocals - which is quite a coup! <i style="font-weight: bold;">Just Like The Sun </i>is a fantastic woozy song that I've enjoyed for a long time and its pleasing to find it on this album as the penultimate track. The album closer <b><i>Grown</i></b> is a another short acoustic song written to their grown up children and it's lovely.</p><p>In summary - bloody great album - go get it! </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="362" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h7YoadOOcjw" width="481" youtube-src-id="h7YoadOOcjw"></iframe></div><p>Social media and streaming links <a href="https://linktr.ee/MantraRay">MantraRay | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook | Linktree</a></p><p> <a href="https://mantraray1.bandcamp.com/album/between-the-lies">▶︎ Between The Lies | MantraRay (bandcamp.com)</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpYDKWUEWd7MMRvZ4h-2XREuizOh5ZP6M0D9MSIc_DM7t_z6SB9HBif_zXqphYmOkp3f4K36KWuEkrpFSgGwPelvGSaaSlKmoEq2Ykz6rPC7BigHUoF0qTzP4TzU2EZelDCdE8MvOZc-ddfBSSb9_wlx0R9w4G1bVEGzw9-aQtqk5C2-NKuqD8gD19e8/s481/Screenshot%202023-11-15%20211606.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="481" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpYDKWUEWd7MMRvZ4h-2XREuizOh5ZP6M0D9MSIc_DM7t_z6SB9HBif_zXqphYmOkp3f4K36KWuEkrpFSgGwPelvGSaaSlKmoEq2Ykz6rPC7BigHUoF0qTzP4TzU2EZelDCdE8MvOZc-ddfBSSb9_wlx0R9w4G1bVEGzw9-aQtqk5C2-NKuqD8gD19e8/s320/Screenshot%202023-11-15%20211606.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">MantraRay (formerly known as Pet Shop Boys) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-83375752658057492182023-10-19T22:29:00.000+08:002023-10-19T22:29:37.561+08:00The Shed Project - Our Fear Is Their Power - Album Review<p>Hallelujah! The Bolton Boys are back to release their second long player to their growing fanbase. They have been cooking up some very tasty flavours in their Shed over the last year and it arrives on cd and vinyl wrapped with The Shed Project’s own print media project delivering the scoops via Editor in Chief Roy Fletcher.</p><p>The album title/headline comes from a slogan painted on a motorway bridge near Manchester warning that governments use whatever boogeymen they can to scare people and then offer themselves as the saviours to retain control. Yes it’s political. But in the thirteenth year of a zombie Tory government on the take and desperately clinging to power,whilst the country literally crumbles, how could it not be?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmMeIkYPFUoY5NknM2D5j7ytMuApZc-fwsns6KuGxb4RlfXCQJcZHPHCoFT0Q_MSbK7-gSArP4xjAJqnqZhiVA183WvgDiIqTOOJzNgDPI8CK709AnOKntIA1E4Nq3zdmXOfm1PZ01_DVoTqeh0Nk-o6gfrN-iu8RDj76aQp3CYMlXhFRs0ul9-Q_0taI/s675/IMG_5558.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="658" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmMeIkYPFUoY5NknM2D5j7ytMuApZc-fwsns6KuGxb4RlfXCQJcZHPHCoFT0Q_MSbK7-gSArP4xjAJqnqZhiVA183WvgDiIqTOOJzNgDPI8CK709AnOKntIA1E4Nq3zdmXOfm1PZ01_DVoTqeh0Nk-o6gfrN-iu8RDj76aQp3CYMlXhFRs0ul9-Q_0taI/s320/IMG_5558.jpeg" width="312" /></a></div><p>Side A begins with a radio tuning betweeen stations - each of them playing the early hits taken from The Shed Project's debut (<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7275961675625322268/8228788756193124797">The Curious Mind Of The Common Man - Album Review</a>). A killer juggernault-size riff cuts through the static and we're off! If You Know You Know was released as a single back in July 2022 only a few months after their debut album dropped. The sound is massive and despite the wall of sound guitars, the vocals and piano shine through. Shout out to drummer, Shane, who plays with precision and flair - it's both tight and loose if you know what I mean? It’s a strong opening with a jumbo dollop of Second Coming vibes and the follow up Easy doesn't let up the pace and is a short song with pounding beats and guitars turned up to eleven. </p><p>The next two songs tackle the subject of people putting on a show whilst hiding their internal thoughts and the reality of their daily lives. Crowdpleaser is about a girl putting on a public face which masks her true feelings. Weekend Millionaire is a character tale of a weekend warrior living it up and flashing the cash in the pub and then scraping through the rest of the week totally skint. It feels like a lost 60's track as Roy channels his inner Ray Davies. </p><p>Excuses closes the first half with acoustic jangle as Roy laments as a friend slides deeper into a drug hell and offers suggestions to help them turn their life around. This is a recurring theme on the album. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ArpocVeYVM5b5-3kAgBVgqwpDeAoii3-ISaBgg22Rbqc5RPxsX7Zza2vmARfhOV_9TidY3wyne5fTqPWgwiHEch1haWzZOFLwSHMMCQfY43LwyBEokM2qde4XiPfHTTtUSt8roAdYOco7AJpQoXZR_WFIJm6ChaZJWtjm4-x_G1lNJ2R3iZrWCYv0UQ/s614/IMG_5560.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="609" data-original-width="614" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ArpocVeYVM5b5-3kAgBVgqwpDeAoii3-ISaBgg22Rbqc5RPxsX7Zza2vmARfhOV_9TidY3wyne5fTqPWgwiHEch1haWzZOFLwSHMMCQfY43LwyBEokM2qde4XiPfHTTtUSt8roAdYOco7AJpQoXZR_WFIJm6ChaZJWtjm4-x_G1lNJ2R3iZrWCYv0UQ/s320/IMG_5560.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Side B opens with a montage of quotes from political leaders set to a drum beat and the now familiar sound of the title track emerges. Whether it’s drugs, crime, terrorism, disease or refugees, there is always some problem that can be weaponised and used to justify more powers for the state whilst the liberties of the people are constantly eroded. This song is a call to wake up and realise the government assisted by the press barons are spreading fear to coerce the masses whilst those at the top are self serving and taking what they can. In the 2020s we have sunk so low that this feels like accepted wisdom rather than a conspiracy theory. Ian Brown’s influence is strong here. <p></p><p>Ghost Town opens with a crashing of glass and an upbeat jangling riff favoured by Afflecks Palace. Roy despairs at the decline of his hometown and just a glimmer of optimism that it might be reversed. The music becomes a hypnotic kaleidoscope of sound - are they still guitars or are we listening to sirens? Forty years after The Specials used the same song title it is still relevant in many parts of the country. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_DagDIXO9pC6dkstidxwwl4a_AEWapneVQenNggibgLl3wwwWyD5xHFT8UsOfrLNV3XWqzScYCWKJIudA-CZIu7TtxbSJLC5wwegwHahGeJsb_LOUBJpDp4MEfYPARQOM1EuLX1Lg3pP-1Oo7q4vKWfyktEN9oSy_eTWg57GEdsl0yRLt-PQ6PrdfXI/s619/IMG_5559.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="619" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_DagDIXO9pC6dkstidxwwl4a_AEWapneVQenNggibgLl3wwwWyD5xHFT8UsOfrLNV3XWqzScYCWKJIudA-CZIu7TtxbSJLC5wwegwHahGeJsb_LOUBJpDp4MEfYPARQOM1EuLX1Lg3pP-1Oo7q4vKWfyktEN9oSy_eTWg57GEdsl0yRLt-PQ6PrdfXI/s320/IMG_5559.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Lower Than A Snake is a high tempo reggae song with some top imagery in the lyrics. The middle part slows the pace down and allows some guitar solos and rattlesnake noises before ramping up to a frantic finish. The lying piece of scum who inspired this song is not named, but it appears to be based on unscrupulous fake character(s) in the independent music scene. You know the type - one who promises much and delivers too little, too late. Do it yourself is the message that The Sheds have learned. </p><p>The penultimate track is called Naughty and it's a mind blowing joyous banger of the first order. It honestly sounds like Happy Mondays remixed by The Chemical Brothers. The bass is fierce on this one and the the Madchester baggy and trance vibes are spot on. It even ends with a sly wink to Blue Monday. Roy's in full voice on this one and it's another anti-drugs song for old ravers to get off their tits to. It's also my new favourite song! </p><p>Side B closes with the Beatlesque I’ve Got The Blues. The first part is dominated by a heavy piano accompanied by synthesied strings. The drums kick in during the second minute and guitar licks reminescent of Champaign Supernova join them. They've thrown the kitchen sink at this ending and it's all stuck. It contains some of Roy's finest lyrics and it is nothing less than a modern Britpop anthem. There's not many albums with a better Side B. </p><p>The Shed Project have been improving with every release over the last three years. The band have been doing it their way and delivered an emotional rollercoaster with well crafted songs, bangers galore, killer guitars, intricate drumming and moody atmospherics. Ignore them at your peril and catch 'em if you can! </p><p><br /></p><p>Album release date: 24/11/23</p><p>Get the signed vinyl or CD exclusively from <a href="https://www.waxandbeans.co.uk/search?q=the+shed+project">Wax and Beans</a></p><p>Merch and gig news from: <a href="https://oneloverecords.co.uk/the-shed-project/">The Shed Project – One Love Records</a></p><p>Digital downloads: <a href="https://theshedprojectuk.bandcamp.com/">Music | The Shed Project (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p>Social Media: You can't miss em!</p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth, Australia-32.0625808 115.9970927-35.81524470914637 111.60256145 -28.309916890853629 120.39162395tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-20384742217983269402023-09-13T15:37:00.022+08:002023-09-13T15:53:32.340+08:00Lewca - Boombap For Boomers - Album Review<p>Album released: 15/09/23</p><p>Get the vinyl: <a href="https://www.waxandbeans.co.uk/products/copy-of-lewca-boombap-for-boomers-halloween-orange-vinyl?_pos=2&_sid=26bcf4800&_ss=r">Lewca - Boombap For Boomers (Halloween Orange Vinyl) – Wax and Beans</a></p><p>Or a digital download from Bandcamp: <a href="https://lewca.bandcamp.com/music">https://lewca.bandcamp.com/music</a></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBdJYMpXI7zu_WDzRe0quw7DrIOyEK7mDy2rdOeojBM36vI_ZRBWzE0XuXahPS3KNqyOtYRAlMoJvcP-jMKZreXMRVtii-5d8-SKsaWYD7WoH56DpUAZBNBvSLKodON-WBNjWF7nBYakSB3UlwgymsWE3_2Uh7-B_4omwlJw_MlQlca9_IDtEzpuio14/s540/Boombap%20Lewca.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBdJYMpXI7zu_WDzRe0quw7DrIOyEK7mDy2rdOeojBM36vI_ZRBWzE0XuXahPS3KNqyOtYRAlMoJvcP-jMKZreXMRVtii-5d8-SKsaWYD7WoH56DpUAZBNBvSLKodON-WBNjWF7nBYakSB3UlwgymsWE3_2Uh7-B_4omwlJw_MlQlca9_IDtEzpuio14/w370-h370/Boombap%20Lewca.webp" width="370" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>Another year, another Lewca album review. Since the 2022 release of Friday Night Rockstar (Reviewed here: <a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2022/11/lewca-friday-night-rockstar-album-review.html">Old Indie Kid: Lewca - Friday Night Rockstar - Album Review</a> ), Lewca has appeared on the anti-Tory anthem Gaslight, a standalone single with Le Spectre and Burn It To The Ground with Fire Up The Sun. Whilst mainstream success has studiously avoided Lewca up to this point, he has become a cult icon to the selective gang of loyal fans and fellow artists that are happy to collaborate to create such awesome music. The great news is his second official album is out and can be enjoyed by everyone who takes a punt on this dodgiest of geezers.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="402" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JKp4zFD3n0g" width="484" youtube-src-id="JKp4zFD3n0g"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Fire Up The Intro</p><p>The album opens with rising bagpipes and a guest introduction from Fire Up The Sun's MC Burnoot who roasts Lewca before anyone else has the chance. It sends a clear message to anyone who hasn't got it yet, Lewca is aware of his public image and is determined to have fun with it. Lewca also appeared on a couple of tracks on the excellent debut album <a href="https://fireupthesun.bandcamp.com/album/standard-patter">Standard Patter | Fire Up The Sun (bandcamp.com)</a> </p><p>Peace of Mind</p><p>A comedown song about facing yourself on the morning after selling your soul to the Devil. Already we have stumbled on the theme of the new album. After the highs of 2022's Friday Night's Rockstar, we have a collection of more chilled introspective songs dealing with life's hangovers.</p><p>Roundabout</p><p>A song recalling teenage thrills with old friends enjoying a wasted Summer in the 90s. Roundabout also discusses how that comraderie is easily recaptured when they meet up years later, and then comes full circle anticipating your kids doing the same shit. Roundabout has a great chorus and a is song that is already a firm favourite appealing to two generations in my household. (I haven't played it to my Mum yet). God knows what instruments are used on this track - it sounds like Lewca and S.O.A.P. are strategically squeezing a gaggle of geese with penny whistles gaffer tapped to their bills. </p><p>I Got It All</p><p>This is a song about people who are busy chasing their fame and fortune and ponders whether success ever satisfies. Lewca decides to celebrate all the things he already has. "I don't need shit, King of the World, Mate". </p><p>Day Job (featuring Mick Swagger)</p><p>The music industry is broken for independent artists, and Lewca and guest vocalist Mick Swagger decide that they better not quit their day jobs just yet. The tune has a groovy swing beat and it's another classic track held back until the album's release date. </p><p>Quite Like Me (featuring Elephant Man)</p><p>Lewca and S.O.A.P. team up with the Jamaican Dancehall legend on this collaboration and it's a head bopping experience. Lewca told me he has been a huge fan of Elephant Man since the 90s and is made up to have recorded a song together. The message here is to be yourself - don't be another sequel. </p><p>All Grown Up</p><p>A drum n bass tune with Lewca refusing to be an adult. Kids singing, squeeky toys squeeking and general chaos is unleashed. </p><p>Monday Morning</p><p>A brilliant ska tune about packing the kids off to school and heading to work with a hangover. Lovely trombone parts provided by of Ian Williamson, who appears on four tracks on the LP. </p><p>Boombap For Boomers</p><p>A brilliant fun tune with self-deprecating lyics, full of hooks, scratches and beats. The album's titular song and one of the highlights of <span> Lewca's</span> impressive catalogue. "Like a tab of acid in a pint of Guiness".</p><p>Discoboy (featuring Faya Braz)</p><p>Piano house tune which encourages escapism from the background noise of the daily grind via hedonistic dance moves. Another message here - don't be a hater, embrace the variety of genders, live and let live, and throw some outlandish shapes on the dancefloor. </p><p>Internet Recovery</p><p>This is the ultimate 80's electro pop stomper with added dial up tones. The lyrics are brilliant and based on reviving your soul via the metaphor of a computer reboot. "The last few decades I've been under the weather, My addictions and me are two birds of a feather... Best guess is to erase the whole damn disk, Format my mind, I may cease to exist".</p><p>Life, Innit? </p><p>Another classic autobiographical Lewca story of his marriage over an infectious bass-heavy tune. </p><p>Daydreaming (featuring OrangeG) </p><p>Banjo strumming from Pittsburgh artist OrangeG provides a chilled and trippy ending to the album. In another world I can imagine Kermit singing this in his swamp. Daydreaming contains some of my favourite lyrics on the album "I played a fool, Make believe that i break the rules, My life is one big bluff, But too much is never enough". The video is below. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K3vjZrBxTQY" width="455" youtube-src-id="K3vjZrBxTQY"></iframe></div><br /><p>I can't recommend this album highly enough and it's my learned opinion that this album tops Friday Night Rockstar. Lewca is a unique talent and given he hasn't broken through into the mainstream consciousness yet, then just be thankful that you've heard his music. Hopefully Lewca's Boombap for Boomers album will increase his musical reach. Hey Lewca, stop being such a cult! </p><p> </p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-39.335123573772016 107.0722465 -24.569501026227982 124.6503715tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-82893521257476415272022-12-05T22:05:00.002+08:002022-12-06T08:45:06.004+08:00Albums of 2022<p> 2022 - What a year it was / still is. This isn't the place for a news retrospective, this is all about the music. Specifically the music released on albums from the independent scene over the last 12 months. I've agonised with the order (a bit - not too much) for a chart style countdown. These are my arbitrary rankings on the day I hit publish and I’m not expecting anyone to agree with my choices or rankings. (You can bloody well write your own blog if you disagree). Have a read below, nod at the ones you know, and maybe discover something new. As always support the underground scene, play them, follow them, share their music and catch them at a gig if you can. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW9GcHwsidufODxjGAPc7LQvsVfpxQ4ZHvXY7KKQHjapylRLvkYjYO7_Yodhl1ArFtXaI_gIcgANDDqTOCbQgHq0aKx-myQQLE5NhD8-fMZSIkM5tngrQvsy8JYEEZT1k-svaveL7S9LgYbnKAb7UxRrLeR85LmEQ9LFdVV04BbETiqTpzxNYehpCd/s3022/A9437A6F-1BB1-4089-A453-3DF02E062D14.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2958" data-original-width="3022" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW9GcHwsidufODxjGAPc7LQvsVfpxQ4ZHvXY7KKQHjapylRLvkYjYO7_Yodhl1ArFtXaI_gIcgANDDqTOCbQgHq0aKx-myQQLE5NhD8-fMZSIkM5tngrQvsy8JYEEZT1k-svaveL7S9LgYbnKAb7UxRrLeR85LmEQ9LFdVV04BbETiqTpzxNYehpCd/w400-h393/A9437A6F-1BB1-4089-A453-3DF02E062D14.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>I’ve attached a Spotify playlist for this blog with a favourite song from each album. But Bandcamp is where most of these artists will see a benefit so I've included links for digital or physical copies if you can afford to purchase something for your collection. </p>
<iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/4QXu7hn338mFBtXCG9ipt7?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe>
<p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>#30 The New Nostalgia - Bleed & Bloom.</b> </p><p>Bleed & Bloom is the debut album from Amsterdam’s The New Nostalgia. Modern Rock N Roll is rarely this angry and humorous, at the same time. It’s bouncy, smart, and full of dirty riffs. </p><p>Favourite song: Ibis Budget </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/newnostalgiauk">@newnostalgiauk</a>
</p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://thenewnostalgia.bandcamp.com/album/bleed-bloom-2">https://thenewnostalgia.bandcamp.com/album/bleed-bloom-2</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZU6gd6xV_BqCzhi90zV2kh33YG42HrlReo6cqaqbo-y5eyzbI0wGl4HRWzYgFA4aNKhH0WvVmDK6Qfau22a58aQVdjd8WX14iGCzED2Gk61gqVzlMu4RQ8q58AxRlKB7FCRo0Yv4J48FUMCQfE0_WADjj92it6NwhxXUua_6ZIwC-8G6TondOHb7/s820/D17B6F5F-B056-4FE7-BBAF-23CC370522FD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="820" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZU6gd6xV_BqCzhi90zV2kh33YG42HrlReo6cqaqbo-y5eyzbI0wGl4HRWzYgFA4aNKhH0WvVmDK6Qfau22a58aQVdjd8WX14iGCzED2Gk61gqVzlMu4RQ8q58AxRlKB7FCRo0Yv4J48FUMCQfE0_WADjj92it6NwhxXUua_6ZIwC-8G6TondOHb7/w200-h199/D17B6F5F-B056-4FE7-BBAF-23CC370522FD.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>#29 Holy Coves - Druids & Bards</b></p><p>Creeping through the mists off the Isle of Anglesey comes the dark brooding alternative rock beasts known as Holy Coves. These songs build up until the listener is ensnared in their B.R.M.C by The Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Come Down by Dandy Warhols are good reference points for the sound of this album. They are continuing their UK tour in February 2023 after main man Scott sustained an injury. They have also been championing new music and giving up and coming bands a leg up which is what we love to see in this new music community. </p><p>Favourite song: The Hurt Within </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/holycoves">@holycoves</a>
</p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://holycovesmusic.bandcamp.com/album/druids-and-bards">https://holycovesmusic.bandcamp.com/album/druids-and-bards</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivagQvDz90kzFI-sQwVv9DgOjeliC2IdUyK-i9RvNTc_7MYDRCpvZQAhCG0iMMlQBRuSAndlu-2YgBMJPd4ed5f2nroq-3IjL7dIMClQSX0JHHH0tW7OmJpP-2SsyRx5e8RP3d2Ke_MKmmURAa_GxP8d530Wu00-POOT9CEFtTlRIZdlFMHCYLWeHK/s837/BC74E948-A1F6-4445-9CE1-EA4745855144.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="830" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivagQvDz90kzFI-sQwVv9DgOjeliC2IdUyK-i9RvNTc_7MYDRCpvZQAhCG0iMMlQBRuSAndlu-2YgBMJPd4ed5f2nroq-3IjL7dIMClQSX0JHHH0tW7OmJpP-2SsyRx5e8RP3d2Ke_MKmmURAa_GxP8d530Wu00-POOT9CEFtTlRIZdlFMHCYLWeHK/w198-h200/BC74E948-A1F6-4445-9CE1-EA4745855144.jpeg" width="198" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#28 Hey Calamity - Desperation </b></p><p>All your South Australian dream pop and shoegaze needs are catered for here. Swathes of synths wash over you and soaring guitars ring out. It has a big sound that I've been digging lately. The songs deal with emotions and gets as gothic as The Cure in the early 80's in many places, especially on the songs Running In Circles, and Words Don't Mean A Thing. </p><p>Favourite song: Ocean In Between Us </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/heycalamity22">@heycalamity22</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://heycalamity.bandcamp.com/album/desperation">https://heycalamity.bandcamp.com/album/desperation</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6T7UQOeUmgNLFvCeGdG_9mogNlJ1b6F__TWficPG-Tcy_1lrM4e12Dgk8vX4n7v-TFndkDaVC4h43kPZl9k3fh79lr4lRo4meoCoymwAjl9upV0Ee8UJFggzlJD9nnlT_Pcqagcy0hMeeDpl6IswAFabmG2EqxWo1N5g1HMBVWbRp9ExUiITq1TF0/s960/4F80EB84-84E4-4503-88B4-B78B0BBD1478.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="959" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6T7UQOeUmgNLFvCeGdG_9mogNlJ1b6F__TWficPG-Tcy_1lrM4e12Dgk8vX4n7v-TFndkDaVC4h43kPZl9k3fh79lr4lRo4meoCoymwAjl9upV0Ee8UJFggzlJD9nnlT_Pcqagcy0hMeeDpl6IswAFabmG2EqxWo1N5g1HMBVWbRp9ExUiITq1TF0/w200-h200/4F80EB84-84E4-4503-88B4-B78B0BBD1478.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p><b>#27 Chris Boddington - Dirty Bit</b></p><p>An album that will take you back to the 90s with 8 banging tunes influenced by artists such as Prodigy, Orbital, Propellerheads, Death In Vegas, Roni Size, 2 Bad Mice, SL2, and The Chemical Brothers. The beats are big, and the sounds are a bit dirty. Chris has also just released a second album of the year called Can't Complain which delves into funkier upbeat territory.</p><p>Favourite banger: Phoenix </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/chrisbodmusic">@chrisbodmusic</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://chrisboddington.bandcamp.com/album/dirty-bit-album-2-2022">https://chrisboddington.bandcamp.com/album/dirty-bit-album-2-2022</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY2VFyF_AznZ05G74M0CZ0LQYH7UOgh7KxWLqeaFNFiKJms04c3ZnU5yGger6eIHLcPGmFCUMF1FEWRPCPsrF1caMyJKsahJzbzFtTEm_OWlcx6H0rXeIcV_UJOIKX3Q4XoApqdGDsOut0hc7fWH8nHItAa8XBIDoI7CREKrtA7iZgePFGpO2ZFPX3/s960/07D7DEA9-53B0-41CE-98E8-45934766CC05.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="917" data-original-width="960" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY2VFyF_AznZ05G74M0CZ0LQYH7UOgh7KxWLqeaFNFiKJms04c3ZnU5yGger6eIHLcPGmFCUMF1FEWRPCPsrF1caMyJKsahJzbzFtTEm_OWlcx6H0rXeIcV_UJOIKX3Q4XoApqdGDsOut0hc7fWH8nHItAa8XBIDoI7CREKrtA7iZgePFGpO2ZFPX3/w200-h191/07D7DEA9-53B0-41CE-98E8-45934766CC05.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p><b><br /></b></p>
<p><b>#26 Professor Yaffle - Let There Be Light </b></p><p>Liverpool's Professor Yaffle have created yet another sublime trippy album. I love the Andy Warhol smoking Cyberman cover art and you can get carried away with this excellent album that runs for an impressive 66 minutes. Within you will find everything from electronic noodling, swathes of organ, jazzy horns and the deftest touches on the percussion front. It's got the inventiveness of early Boo Radleys under the influence of Nick Drake.</p><p>Favourite song: Wandering Star, Pt 3 </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/toffeeyaffle">@ToffeeYaffle</a> </p><p>Album Link: <a href="https://www.professoryaffle.co.uk/product/let-there-be-light/">https://www.professoryaffle.co.uk/product/let-there-be-light/</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLV2u6jYkUfZxvtXsV_lz-dzMabVJYAEBsqZNndz5hTjBWZNEGni90pYlf68W22ne1320jL55OthP581eKiuf8KuYANuhNpfFG6fC2rJr_mXC82MKs4zDQ7M6mf3fJnSBX4x-AuqKi2f2gB-VrwlZK1J2rJvN8wTTiS7aoJRRMyUQXahA41X8b2WQa/s824/90AAD363-EC40-4E3E-BB9E-FE2624381612.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="821" data-original-width="824" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLV2u6jYkUfZxvtXsV_lz-dzMabVJYAEBsqZNndz5hTjBWZNEGni90pYlf68W22ne1320jL55OthP581eKiuf8KuYANuhNpfFG6fC2rJr_mXC82MKs4zDQ7M6mf3fJnSBX4x-AuqKi2f2gB-VrwlZK1J2rJvN8wTTiS7aoJRRMyUQXahA41X8b2WQa/w200-h199/90AAD363-EC40-4E3E-BB9E-FE2624381612.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
<p><b>#25 Kevin Robertson - Teaspoon Of Time</b></p><p>Second solo album from Kevin Robertson, front man of Aberdeen’s The Vapour Trails. An album of light psychedelic pop ear-worms reminiscent of Teenage Fanclub and Belle and Sebastian. </p><p>Favourite song: Misty Dew Soaked Mountains</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/kevinro17521365">@Kevinrol17521365</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://kevinrobertson.bandcamp.com/album/teaspoon-of-time">https://kevinrobertson.bandcamp.com/album/teaspoon-of-time</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw68Ofu2QNo48p5dOHEm-g2WaVagS3OxH1ZVbxP24Y6l48siFWyEIK-frgB75gXVw-SpD7bc49T0UACfm-I9l6HxGN8MCDu2ACzWKMqsBKbDxKSgNV6CPVCMrTiAZpzpwP5xkJvemz0hfyxc7RxCP9sDPQIdbnJ60euyfaRAhk__d6XdH10FJFCud0/s960/06CDC7BA-864A-456C-9AAF-61728C5D5375.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="956" data-original-width="960" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw68Ofu2QNo48p5dOHEm-g2WaVagS3OxH1ZVbxP24Y6l48siFWyEIK-frgB75gXVw-SpD7bc49T0UACfm-I9l6HxGN8MCDu2ACzWKMqsBKbDxKSgNV6CPVCMrTiAZpzpwP5xkJvemz0hfyxc7RxCP9sDPQIdbnJ60euyfaRAhk__d6XdH10FJFCud0/w200-h199/06CDC7BA-864A-456C-9AAF-61728C5D5375.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p><b>#24 Triangle Rain Club - Triangle Rain Club</b></p><p>Harking back to the scuzzy alternative rock scene of the late 80s and early 90s, Chicago’s Triangle Rain Club is heavily influenced by The Cure, Sugar, Dinosaur Jr, Sebadoh, and most prominently The Jesus and Mary Chain on the gruff vocal delivery. This debut album contains 10 short melodic songs drenched in feedback and is easily digestible with a running length of 27 minutes. Play on repeat!</p><p>Favourite song: In My Head </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/rainclubband">@RainClubBand</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://trianglerainclub.bandcamp.com/album/triangle-rain-club">https://trianglerainclub.bandcamp.com/album/triangle-rain-club</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PBsyIV-CP608YZL0t3TdoYOiLS3pX6hFNqMDLLxcJw2lJ552VKpMgDSUEGgkNwV_qV5mX8oLD_U2u4SHWS2PQB9F5-sliUDfPb6Mvy7HjKppwTFjGFCDreLZugmoSgl5Izpz8ALCdt0COyg05Ym6i7hhrwuKfN1WFtiTu2GMScdyY_qG4GXbUKw8/s963/1325F480-AF44-4668-9BCD-81CF40276F10.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="963" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PBsyIV-CP608YZL0t3TdoYOiLS3pX6hFNqMDLLxcJw2lJ552VKpMgDSUEGgkNwV_qV5mX8oLD_U2u4SHWS2PQB9F5-sliUDfPb6Mvy7HjKppwTFjGFCDreLZugmoSgl5Izpz8ALCdt0COyg05Ym6i7hhrwuKfN1WFtiTu2GMScdyY_qG4GXbUKw8/w199-h200/1325F480-AF44-4668-9BCD-81CF40276F10.jpeg" width="199" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#23 Thousand Yard Stare - Earthanasia</b></p><p>Formed in 1988, Thousand Yard Stare were a band I had heard of and I loved 0-0 a.e.t. but I didn't get into them until their previous album. Then Earthanasia came along and blew me away with the quality of the tunes. It is a varied album and a joy to listen to. Released on their own fantastically named Stiffed Aardvark label in October. </p><p>Favourite song: Square Peg Round Hole </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/wearetys">@wearetys</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://thousandyardstareuk.bandcamp.com/album/earthanasia-lp">Earthanasia LP | Thousand Yard Stare (bandcamp.com)</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixaEL4ti1SMDiACX0Qq-az7gyXmjpbcZVtWWw2BCNy5k5fo5-A2J2sljcNWwPT9UJWE-WyhZYRbTqDSmzs2WEtEAUyMcL4MMS-10vm1sdrRnWXJmIHtTlz_3nU5PBBPzelQu5Cp43h0HJ1IdZLtSha3UL3jozGmlUoLYgn7fLpnFDy8uZEIrKjNQUV/s353/TYS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="350" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixaEL4ti1SMDiACX0Qq-az7gyXmjpbcZVtWWw2BCNy5k5fo5-A2J2sljcNWwPT9UJWE-WyhZYRbTqDSmzs2WEtEAUyMcL4MMS-10vm1sdrRnWXJmIHtTlz_3nU5PBBPzelQu5Cp43h0HJ1IdZLtSha3UL3jozGmlUoLYgn7fLpnFDy8uZEIrKjNQUV/w198-h200/TYS.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#22 Lines of Flight - Signs of Life </b></p><p>10 songs recorded in isolation using ipads and whatever they had about the house. Helen and Matthew are both from Leeds and they met online and created this album together / apart. Lines of Flight released a song per month during 2021 so the album is already familiar. But now they are collected together on a beautiful sky blue vinyl that allows you to wallow in the ethereal vocals and dark gothic pop. </p><p>Favourite song: Birthing Bell</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/linesof_flight">@linesof_flight</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://lines-of-flight.bandcamp.com/album/signs-of-life">Signs Of Life | Lines of Flight (bandcamp.com)</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bBBPyH01vnvqAWlJLyHjaFoPy8qD5eHdqGCt_n9KkSwDHDrMcqcgSUGR79p_l1PaMfjlHuZGtOGxlHZmfFsrdujzxV_puA5Hlcfz6g8yRI8HFmRdZgVm92-hBCA6C2ilek84dqVJwvoop52lUHZn7jj9NYG0F8QtUqXZdbtHNmCAw53lgdG3-Crz/s349/Lines%20of%20Flight.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="347" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bBBPyH01vnvqAWlJLyHjaFoPy8qD5eHdqGCt_n9KkSwDHDrMcqcgSUGR79p_l1PaMfjlHuZGtOGxlHZmfFsrdujzxV_puA5Hlcfz6g8yRI8HFmRdZgVm92-hBCA6C2ilek84dqVJwvoop52lUHZn7jj9NYG0F8QtUqXZdbtHNmCAw53lgdG3-Crz/w199-h200/Lines%20of%20Flight.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#21 Voldo - Melting Pot </b></p><p>Choons straight out the Banger Wardrobe, delivered in a melting pot of genres and styles. Great songwriting accompanied by beats, samples, guitars, banjos, piano, in fact, anything that fits the mode. A modern day trip hop Odelay. </p><p>Favourite song: Caley Line </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/voldomusic">@voldomusic</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://nunnyboy.bandcamp.com/album/melting-pot-album">https://nunnyboy.bandcamp.com/album/melting-pot-album</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZcbQZ5rI5u-yTp7PIa0y4WBbzue2ElVNuAxTXhOPtuXiDZM9-GUjDozY38DosLspr4q8qdlZQsg44TXj9uTi_Uvw-5W_sOTdnh36Qv_xDAp_ri-i4O6t2_Z7NQ4ytAN0_ShK7BY1v92qapptAkVQzXu4_ys_-ngA7Lmg9wyr009byLyf6_RqOMPQ/s960/71195C9E-B802-41F3-B902-C8E0F2908C09.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="960" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZcbQZ5rI5u-yTp7PIa0y4WBbzue2ElVNuAxTXhOPtuXiDZM9-GUjDozY38DosLspr4q8qdlZQsg44TXj9uTi_Uvw-5W_sOTdnh36Qv_xDAp_ri-i4O6t2_Z7NQ4ytAN0_ShK7BY1v92qapptAkVQzXu4_ys_-ngA7Lmg9wyr009byLyf6_RqOMPQ/w200-h197/71195C9E-B802-41F3-B902-C8E0F2908C09.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div><p><b><br /></b></p>
<p><b>#20 The Lazy Eyes - Songbook</b></p><p>Sydney's psychadelic pop band mix the late 1960's with the early 2020's combining The Beatles with Tame Impala to create an immersive album that will have you grooving and grinning in equal measure. </p><p>Favourite song: Fuzz Jam</p><p>Twitter:<a href="https://twitter.com/TheLazyEyesBand">@TheLazyEyesBand</a> </p></div><p>Available from: <a href="https://thelazyeyes.com/Official-Site">Official Site - The Lazy Eyes</a></p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84Wr7WZ1AkMf8Iy-JiSdh7wwhB52iWzIIpKq6XrQd4c5e7I6HGT_sfbgIQUATJc8WDuZvQr0K34B2qGxip3gDvLeJXFaXs5uqnn63b0XdiHQMC1q920Rg8zp8y_NlhT08UJO6ePMp8uR-2_47qF5xD3IrzWKcTcqkTgzWclp1FMlHy0C2GnKYkiOb/s240/The%20Laxy%20Eyes.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="239" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84Wr7WZ1AkMf8Iy-JiSdh7wwhB52iWzIIpKq6XrQd4c5e7I6HGT_sfbgIQUATJc8WDuZvQr0K34B2qGxip3gDvLeJXFaXs5uqnn63b0XdiHQMC1q920Rg8zp8y_NlhT08UJO6ePMp8uR-2_47qF5xD3IrzWKcTcqkTgzWclp1FMlHy0C2GnKYkiOb/w199-h200/The%20Laxy%20Eyes.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p><b>#19 Lossline - When I Look Out I See No Stars</b></p><p>If you’re looking for sad bleak delicate songs set to ethereal soundscapes interspersed with upbeat sad bleak sing-a-longs that make you question the point in existence, then look no further than the Manchester’s Lossline. An excellent album from the most unhappy-go-lucky band in the Northeast. </p><p>Favourite song: Death Masks </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/losslines">@losslines </a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://lossline.bandcamp.com/album/when-i-look-out-i-see-no-stars">https://lossline.bandcamp.com/album/when-i-look-out-i-see-no-stars</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1e1u1INHkQX9SV280EatEFUAI1jodkGLUPNBXLYC5HhTq0aTlmyFpcVcxJLwRAQl_PnUBYMedc5HgCzVqEI54dydxDUCYDQ-0QyIz1eSy9BnuYUeNAub6TO0y0pQOn_tLH0YHBYLRMk2UAZX0Ox0JlCPpGecHlx40Y-FvOTZoTpAR8ZFFd2Xy7SqO/s807/51902CF3-E2C0-4550-927B-2D752D323F51.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="807" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1e1u1INHkQX9SV280EatEFUAI1jodkGLUPNBXLYC5HhTq0aTlmyFpcVcxJLwRAQl_PnUBYMedc5HgCzVqEI54dydxDUCYDQ-0QyIz1eSy9BnuYUeNAub6TO0y0pQOn_tLH0YHBYLRMk2UAZX0Ox0JlCPpGecHlx40Y-FvOTZoTpAR8ZFFd2Xy7SqO/w200-h199/51902CF3-E2C0-4550-927B-2D752D323F51.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p><b><br /></b></p>
<p><b>#18 Jay Tennant - Forever Roses</b></p><p>An album of indie guitar anthems containing seven previous singles to soundtrack the night. Poker Polka sounds like Shed Seven hitting the casino disco, Spectre is the new music scene’s alternative Bond theme, full of menace and espionage imagery. Jay hasn’t stopped releasing new music and has already released another four new songs likely to appear on the follow up album in 2023.</p><p>Favourite song: Spectre </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/jaytennant_">@jaytennant_ </a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://jaytennant1.bandcamp.com/album/forever-roses">https://jaytennant1.bandcamp.com/album/forever-roses</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMjZRh3e2w_zn8w8z6L5eZrdaLrUmSuTupNeSm2Y0_sSlGw543vTRrRMEuBtTctAN2ieZRDd8fDCMd0Bp8UBjiKEtoBTf4cwuPHAPeBjwzXxYWpWSBren01RrHJ5YoIrA-kZtvFU-LBjIzPVamUZqhxIPvO2znvpdfinFseeaDdIWb4J4mgyV2Qay/s960/06B25A4A-8177-497D-9217-8C86A24BC65F.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="957" data-original-width="960" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMjZRh3e2w_zn8w8z6L5eZrdaLrUmSuTupNeSm2Y0_sSlGw543vTRrRMEuBtTctAN2ieZRDd8fDCMd0Bp8UBjiKEtoBTf4cwuPHAPeBjwzXxYWpWSBren01RrHJ5YoIrA-kZtvFU-LBjIzPVamUZqhxIPvO2znvpdfinFseeaDdIWb4J4mgyV2Qay/w200-h199/06B25A4A-8177-497D-9217-8C86A24BC65F.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#17 The Finest Drops - To Live Between The Worlds</b></p><p>An album of gothic jangle psychedelic shoegaze that was the soundtrack to my two days of covid fever. I rediscovered it when compiling this list and it’s a great album regardless of your rapid antigen test results. The Finest Drops hail from Newcastle-upon-Tyne and this album is available on CD or pay what you want for a digital download on Bandcamp. </p><p>Favourite song: For Another Time </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/MrStuRobson">@MrStuRobson </a>& <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidNHewitt">@DavidNHewitt </a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://thefinestdrops.bandcamp.com/album/to-live-between-the-worlds">https://thefinestdrops.bandcamp.com/album/to-live-between-the-worlds</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASpDfwlm1g8b03_4gRJzTmlboiUVftBndQK-jpAy2OSCQXcaqGL-RykgTEi0V7cBvtSdvlxKD6uA8jpCsnNDg2NpC8zU0_CIvZzGa2cDvqoNMjy_ZRJmvYQBE57yw9JFPx-hJRBFj1nlk59XPddLcSvD-7S-PJuYLuqOHtgRzINmOqmvOz9iivGnv/s960/B376D967-54C7-464F-B01E-1F2C312817BF.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="960" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASpDfwlm1g8b03_4gRJzTmlboiUVftBndQK-jpAy2OSCQXcaqGL-RykgTEi0V7cBvtSdvlxKD6uA8jpCsnNDg2NpC8zU0_CIvZzGa2cDvqoNMjy_ZRJmvYQBE57yw9JFPx-hJRBFj1nlk59XPddLcSvD-7S-PJuYLuqOHtgRzINmOqmvOz9iivGnv/w200-h199/B376D967-54C7-464F-B01E-1F2C312817BF.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#16 Andrew Johnson - Sunrise Empire</b></p><p>My favourite of Andy’s new albums this year. Full of breezy indie pop nuggets embracing a range of instruments, styles, and influences. </p><p>Andy is a favourite of mine, my most streamed artist of the last few years, and one of the most prolific songwriters around. Subscribe to him on Bandcamp and you will get exclusive albums and singles throughout the year (digitally and through your letterbox). Honestly you will never need to tweet “I need new music” ever again. </p><p>Favourite song: Oversquared </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/itmustbeandy">@itmustbeandy </a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://andrewjohnson1.bandcamp.com/album/sunrise-empire">https://andrewjohnson1.bandcamp.com/album/sunrise-empire</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGSBwVF9bnMqAYIGuOV6VggwJdDItRtWWb4FZzYrKyesMT5FZCeK99od8OftIZT6GbEuHPh7qffN31sVzXW4TXYKnrY7Ckjbu3nUnkkrvX92eeSjN7vDgXXr1kZVbtAIUVKQE16oItcvXfvxYLV7NobmyLncxmaBcFCtnUGfyNwr3gv8lEbxcvzCE/s960/608A7865-FB75-4DC4-AAF2-6556F405CC9A.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="960" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGSBwVF9bnMqAYIGuOV6VggwJdDItRtWWb4FZzYrKyesMT5FZCeK99od8OftIZT6GbEuHPh7qffN31sVzXW4TXYKnrY7Ckjbu3nUnkkrvX92eeSjN7vDgXXr1kZVbtAIUVKQE16oItcvXfvxYLV7NobmyLncxmaBcFCtnUGfyNwr3gv8lEbxcvzCE/w200-h198/608A7865-FB75-4DC4-AAF2-6556F405CC9A.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#15 Cigarillo - Deodorant</b> </p><p>Nearly two years after I first heard RTL2 / Everyone Loves Janet, the debut album Deoderant is released to great joy amongst those lucky enough to dip into Cigarillo’s take on Britpop. The songs are varied, inventive, smart and each gives a few knowing winks to your favourite bands of the 90’s. Expect more from Adelaide’s End of The Pier record label next year, as they have several albums in the pipeline.</p><p>Favourite song: The Forecast Was Wrong</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eotprecords">@eotprecords</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/BenTOGM">@BenTOGM</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://cigarillo.bandcamp.com/album/deodorant">https://cigarillo.bandcamp.com/album/deodorant</a></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCm5louhbTSE_IejmT4coHeDqAme53RGPR59xBl46GZSra50A0QOvm2-Nmvjp9olnYwI4bTNJbL79L6fuA7kMmKyfU-Qr-zj30rbAAeTepKluXy6DWSV1aJWQZkRTToHxCl7RzMuEXAKpx75wh-GFmK_6LcV-hrYS0dRKn2dk87pQ-65tQZCPXw4X/s890/500D6F51-BBBF-4D61-AA05-AE0CBDFB24B4.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="886" data-original-width="890" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCm5louhbTSE_IejmT4coHeDqAme53RGPR59xBl46GZSra50A0QOvm2-Nmvjp9olnYwI4bTNJbL79L6fuA7kMmKyfU-Qr-zj30rbAAeTepKluXy6DWSV1aJWQZkRTToHxCl7RzMuEXAKpx75wh-GFmK_6LcV-hrYS0dRKn2dk87pQ-65tQZCPXw4X/w200-h199/500D6F51-BBBF-4D61-AA05-AE0CBDFB24B4.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div><br /></div>
<p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>#14 Gabriel’s Dawn - Gabriel’s Dawn</b></p><p>Midlanders Gabriel’s Dawn released three brilliant singles back in 2021 all are included on this melodic summery jangle pop album. Sweet melancholy female vocals cuts through the chipper tunes giving it a Belle and Sebastian vibe. Ten songs of love, hope, despair, stalking and defiance. Gorgeous jangle pop of the highest order.</p><p>Favourite song: I Don’t Believe (In The Summer Of Love)</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/GabrielsDawn">@GabrielsDawn</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://gabrielsdawn.bandcamp.com/album/gabriels-dawn">https://gabrielsdawn.bandcamp.com/album/gabriels-dawn</a></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQTa0rH-Cl7y8iezPEV0wrxzUztqY8m0wM5SHPSzXsdCa5Cwr91DeuQ7551lRd5R9ygs_a6jFqqCiMSS4PFquXr8mNCOd7JyuuHXIVBQmzHff2PGZ9nZPdlSn0q7svhQEUCVIqhtMQCybJR2bWFnnjTL2wCfyvFSuSncoln0MAWC3yb1VHKnjEpft/s960/F520D7F4-610A-41E2-89A8-D5F72EB6795B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="957" data-original-width="960" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQTa0rH-Cl7y8iezPEV0wrxzUztqY8m0wM5SHPSzXsdCa5Cwr91DeuQ7551lRd5R9ygs_a6jFqqCiMSS4PFquXr8mNCOd7JyuuHXIVBQmzHff2PGZ9nZPdlSn0q7svhQEUCVIqhtMQCybJR2bWFnnjTL2wCfyvFSuSncoln0MAWC3yb1VHKnjEpft/w200-h199/F520D7F4-610A-41E2-89A8-D5F72EB6795B.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p><b><br /></b></p>
<p><b>#13 Shader - Everything Is Connected</b></p><p>The debut album from Stoke-on-Trent band Shader. Roughly two-third of songs were previously released as singles over the last few years. So as a follower of the band it is instantly familiar to my ears and the new songs are also brilliant making this a very strong collection of indie guitar anthems. Favourite song: Time Is Right </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/SHADERUK">@SHADERUK</a> </p><p>Available from: <a href="https://shader.tmstor.es/?lf=a223a1a129ede49a681c3a7137b0ff37">Shader - Official Store (tmstor.es)</a></p><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTD9gbi_hTmsN7XLTtZ1G-mlUqkq3A5827r2j_0Gg82mD5W9IK_a8RpyM2HrU_WE57D_ESc0w9ZcX4KQQYMkKgiYxSk4kjlJSWaHJ3DXBu95A1LkKRXgXbHq41jrt6NB_HBt8gyf0NPpsvh8X4j5tLGVFO_Y2gXU3q1dIOwtIYuurBhXLMsdtpG7bF/s820/4B467DC0-11F9-4BE6-82E3-7D5FFC6007C3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="820" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTD9gbi_hTmsN7XLTtZ1G-mlUqkq3A5827r2j_0Gg82mD5W9IK_a8RpyM2HrU_WE57D_ESc0w9ZcX4KQQYMkKgiYxSk4kjlJSWaHJ3DXBu95A1LkKRXgXbHq41jrt6NB_HBt8gyf0NPpsvh8X4j5tLGVFO_Y2gXU3q1dIOwtIYuurBhXLMsdtpG7bF/w200-h198/4B467DC0-11F9-4BE6-82E3-7D5FFC6007C3.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div></div><p><b><br /></b></p>
<p><b>#12 Skylights - What You Are</b></p><p>York band Skylights have filled their debut album with indie anthems that have been blasting out of stadium tanoys over the last couple of years. Y.R.A., Enemies, Outlaw and Britannia are examples of epic sounding terrace singalongs perfect for ramping up the tension. Elsewhere Darkness Falls and Driving Me Away are delivered as acoustic versions with Julia Violinista providing the strings. A monster of a debut and you sense they will take things even higher in the near future. </p><p>Favourite song: Y.R.A.</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/SkylightsYRA">@SkylightsYRA</a> </p><p>Available from: <a href="https://www.musicglue.com/42srecords/">Shop - 42's Records (musicglue.com)</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOs27VOhjh0NiitYXzv78hzPjap6iE6MeLpz5XMYxECmkbc1WvkqjP6yZtmn63r5OBcajmDSW-U9eGZeR9vNxgVpEuY_t5aQ-29pfL86v8iS8AeHQeGY_4rvElIo_FG1qDOUAfnmtWys9nu1mHJ9lV2l_hbyj7jycV3RkFnZJ3DHSeF6T8IWMIHaUI/s814/4578CDC0-69F0-4F4E-AC66-A8AC46F8E3DC.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="806" data-original-width="814" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOs27VOhjh0NiitYXzv78hzPjap6iE6MeLpz5XMYxECmkbc1WvkqjP6yZtmn63r5OBcajmDSW-U9eGZeR9vNxgVpEuY_t5aQ-29pfL86v8iS8AeHQeGY_4rvElIo_FG1qDOUAfnmtWys9nu1mHJ9lV2l_hbyj7jycV3RkFnZJ3DHSeF6T8IWMIHaUI/w200-h198/4578CDC0-69F0-4F4E-AC66-A8AC46F8E3DC.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p><b>#11 Shoes On Now - Deadhead</b></p><p>A punk rock concept album about gardening. My teenage self would shudder with embarrassment at this idea. But as a middle aged dad losing the battle with Mother Nature each weekend trying to make my scrubby sandy patch of land resemble a garden, this tickles me. It is very funny, frantic, and strangely addictive. There are some great song titles such as Pockets Full Of Poo Bags, and Rats In The Compost. My highlight is the touching punk opus No One Can Help Me, which is an expose on father-son relationships, stubborn male pride, and the desire to leave a legacy. "Shoes On Now" has also become a phase I've taught my dog this year, to alert him a walk is iminent. </p><p>Favourite song: No One Can Help Me </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/shoes_on_now">@shoes_on_now</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://shoesonnow.bandcamp.com/album/deadhead">https://shoesonnow.bandcamp.com/album/deadhead</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI06ltfJm82QR0AKeBGWLaz88RRvS4mF-DafRNEiwouaglnT4bM9qRIazdbr_3E-VFNxojJQvG-dshG696n2zHCWeDB2YVAgNvD-ZG7RpyhMgOakfHxEQTkAZuSjFqht8Chq5pdRZAY3rb3zSuXyLWCAzeOiPokQN32MwX-V0M8-JrvyLHtRd8LXIH/s815/FD7BE633-447A-4BE0-8DAA-47FBE4A3A1EF.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="809" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI06ltfJm82QR0AKeBGWLaz88RRvS4mF-DafRNEiwouaglnT4bM9qRIazdbr_3E-VFNxojJQvG-dshG696n2zHCWeDB2YVAgNvD-ZG7RpyhMgOakfHxEQTkAZuSjFqht8Chq5pdRZAY3rb3zSuXyLWCAzeOiPokQN32MwX-V0M8-JrvyLHtRd8LXIH/w199-h200/FD7BE633-447A-4BE0-8DAA-47FBE4A3A1EF.jpeg" width="199" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p></p>
<p><b>#10 Sunzoom - Sunzoom</b></p><p>Sunzoom's album opens with a hippy chant reminisicient of 60's throwbacks The Cosmic Rough Riders. Elsewhere a former Beta Band member plays on Pour Me Another Wine. The songwriting is of a high order demonstrated through the vivid imagery on Anytime Soon based on the experiences of a D-Day Veteron, and his personal family experiences on The Place Where The Long Shadows Grow. There are beautiful Beatlesque harmonies, and string arrangements, and whether you soak it up on your headphones or blast it out loud, it's clear Greg is very happy experimenting in the studio and it's mind blowing for a debut album. As Palpatine said to Anakin, "We will watch your career with great interest..." </p><p>Favourite song: Hell No</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/SunzoomMusic">@SunzoomMusic</a> </p><p>Album link: <a href="https://cargorecordsdirect.co.uk/products/sunzoom-sunzoom">https://cargorecordsdirect.co.uk/products/sunzoom-sunzoom</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiExoAv2fTaR_skCRJ6fNp2FuDlSwSfn1H4XZqEqgFPgLOeD26ZMfWRZawkwVEkJv4EZRFWBMnsjqbDAtTs5I357JI3vWwGAdTnVeP23v4tgQTlyl4qDY_IUtK5jUk4Nk7eXXVjvurWLEVipexXc33p4qyupbhW16MBoHLRAA7ex2yCtK2ZADJS1FfT/s819/4251CC7C-B9AF-45C7-8C3B-99CE5E9C2551.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="812" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiExoAv2fTaR_skCRJ6fNp2FuDlSwSfn1H4XZqEqgFPgLOeD26ZMfWRZawkwVEkJv4EZRFWBMnsjqbDAtTs5I357JI3vWwGAdTnVeP23v4tgQTlyl4qDY_IUtK5jUk4Nk7eXXVjvurWLEVipexXc33p4qyupbhW16MBoHLRAA7ex2yCtK2ZADJS1FfT/w317-h320/4251CC7C-B9AF-45C7-8C3B-99CE5E9C2551.jpeg" width="317" /></a></div><p><br /></p><div>
<p><b>#9 Lyon Tide - Life Pop Bang</b> </p><p>There’s a wonderful combination of mature songwriting and synth pop on the second album from West Midlands band Lyon Tide. From the beat driven opening banger Chemical Burn, through the 1980s singalong of Life Pop Bang, and the minimalist approach taken on Silent Words sung by Julia Faulkes. There is haunting melancholy on album closer One Way Love and previous single Alone, where the vocals take centre stage over the percussion and soft synthetic swirls as the music briefly rises in the middle and then fades away - quality songs. </p><p>Favourite song: Alone </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/LyonTide">@LyonTide</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://lyontide.bandcamp.com/album/life-pop-bang">https://lyontide.bandcamp.com/album/life-pop-bang</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDITeQNtNHMg7KOHdDieKS8SvWsRmVACA60iovuTWQLJnyinwuPe4uCKFP0leZW3V7_SJzkFbpX9LU3ue6XPgGzL1VkeyahI60MUCXtoCrMhjSEYGW3RLwsek1HcgdY14kygVcKHuXNAj-tbKtYLOPhFtmLA7i9FbGNDdKGanIJRGn7QJjrPSUUlOt/s825/C58BC637-06C5-47D1-B08D-3DBC1A26D6B0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="821" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDITeQNtNHMg7KOHdDieKS8SvWsRmVACA60iovuTWQLJnyinwuPe4uCKFP0leZW3V7_SJzkFbpX9LU3ue6XPgGzL1VkeyahI60MUCXtoCrMhjSEYGW3RLwsek1HcgdY14kygVcKHuXNAj-tbKtYLOPhFtmLA7i9FbGNDdKGanIJRGn7QJjrPSUUlOt/w318-h320/C58BC637-06C5-47D1-B08D-3DBC1A26D6B0.jpeg" width="318" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p><b>#8 Dean Dovey - Journey To The Sun</b></p><p>A truly outstanding album from the Bard of Birmingham. The production is awesome transforming the songs into the full HD Widescreen Surround Sound epics. Dean is an excellent songwriter and there are no weak links in his ten-track debut album featuring previous singles, If Only, Shout, Wishing Well, Journey To The Sun, Borrowed Time, and Loving Heart. The new album tracks are pure quality as well and I'm constantly changing my mind about a favourite song which shows the strength of this album. At the time of writing, I'm going with the epic album closer Where The Light Comes In, which ends with a female backing vocalist, a horn section and a big cheeky nod to The Smiths and The Beatles. </p><p>Favourite Song: Where The Light Comes In</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/deandoveymusic">@deandoveymusic</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://deandovey.bandcamp.com/album/journey-to-the-sun">Journey To The Sun | Dean Dovey (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_3e8LJgFOo1MrwK6WjAvdVydLHuFquU3fTDe5CpuVxeC-Ieq0QiV-yGxvg4MeheqaY9-I5VDsevwwcBjBtpEN0BhIbhB2njQTRv9xwPU5zYBuC3Ps2VL78gfu8I6WYyf9SbfQDRju1PZE0hhosBjub8-p_HGJrHFxbko4tSfaub9NZZeGyp9xL92R/s355/dean%20dovey.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_3e8LJgFOo1MrwK6WjAvdVydLHuFquU3fTDe5CpuVxeC-Ieq0QiV-yGxvg4MeheqaY9-I5VDsevwwcBjBtpEN0BhIbhB2njQTRv9xwPU5zYBuC3Ps2VL78gfu8I6WYyf9SbfQDRju1PZE0hhosBjub8-p_HGJrHFxbko4tSfaub9NZZeGyp9xL92R/w315-h320/dean%20dovey.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><p><b><br /></b></p><div><p><b>#7 Sean Buckley (& Friends) - Featuring </b></p><div>Salford’s Sean Buckley has been collaborating with the cream of the new music scene over the last 18 month’s providing his melodic electronica music as the basis for others to embellish, collaborate, sing on, or just shout “I’m Alright” over the top of it. It’s a fabulous collection of songs featuring Lewca, 3 Little Wolves, Joe Peacock, Laura Jayne, The Shop Window, Ollie Winder, James Willows, Gomrund, and Leon The Pig Farmer. </div><p>Favourite song: Pull (with James Willows)</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Mintball">@Mintball</a> </p><div>Available from: Streaming sites on 30/12/22</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVouUSAslKdSR5lQplubSDzTN7dTzCOdGSWMUm2DXhBdAAT9AoBsaXuby5fW5ZClZfNV38SgFPsGFhS4EjqHA_OdEgoAU-N1AYFfaAqzRyK8-axXMqDGzrqar4W-iMnPxEPuzpaXatcqKwI6pMr26zd1XGro_nclVgK39kcMpvm0gJtQ-cTz-QvGGq/s851/454C2356-EC05-4F57-B570-16CF624E8F74.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="851" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVouUSAslKdSR5lQplubSDzTN7dTzCOdGSWMUm2DXhBdAAT9AoBsaXuby5fW5ZClZfNV38SgFPsGFhS4EjqHA_OdEgoAU-N1AYFfaAqzRyK8-axXMqDGzrqar4W-iMnPxEPuzpaXatcqKwI6pMr26zd1XGro_nclVgK39kcMpvm0gJtQ-cTz-QvGGq/s320/454C2356-EC05-4F57-B570-16CF624E8F74.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><b>#6 Narcissus - A Sense Of Plac</b>e </p><p>The debut album from Manchester band Narcissus is a slab of ultra cool dark electro bangers with more hooks than a secondhand pirate store. The beats, bleeps, strings, guitars, samples, and vocals combine to create music that is utterly compelling. Guest vocalists Becki Fishwick plays an integral role elevating the songs to the next level in the same way that Denise Johnson lifted Primal Scream. Ten songs - all killer no filler - it’s a riot. </p><p>Favourite song: Friends In High Places</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/narcissushq">@narcissushq</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/beckifishwick">@beckifishwick</a> </p><p>Available from: <a href="https://www.musicglue.com/42srecords/">Shop - 42's Records (musicglue.com)</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKuvHgTRO4GB_qxqROszlYRa_oylWGnAZQxzTwRGN5rzpRs5ioAjrYyAGq0-nlckmEIYLKzMoB8ZyWljiPHwUXVJSRa3luV6SS3x10RBtMjC_9jUIeM0_LpawArcubrR5DtRvQcAChSAatRfnLn10vkMVV04TI-BOIizg1OBzoYL3PDhEGq-TyFQA/s825/424840C1-4522-4FD6-8289-A1934269DF41.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="804" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKuvHgTRO4GB_qxqROszlYRa_oylWGnAZQxzTwRGN5rzpRs5ioAjrYyAGq0-nlckmEIYLKzMoB8ZyWljiPHwUXVJSRa3luV6SS3x10RBtMjC_9jUIeM0_LpawArcubrR5DtRvQcAChSAatRfnLn10vkMVV04TI-BOIizg1OBzoYL3PDhEGq-TyFQA/w312-h320/424840C1-4522-4FD6-8289-A1934269DF41.jpeg" width="312" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#5 Lewca - Friday Night Rockstar</b> </p><p>Friday Night Rockstar is an incredible collection of witty autobiographical songs from the life of my favourite Geezer. There’s a mixture of genres here, smooth R&B grooves, drum n bass, and hedonistic party music undercut with self-deprecating lyrics. Lewca and S.O.A.P. have collaborated with some of the cream of the new music scene to create this album which includes contributions from Ben Todd, Ben Samama, John Michie, Orange G, James Willows, Oh! Paulo, Ambre, Mondo Trasho, Zar Acoustic, Victory Flow and Shark Star. What a squad of talent to draw from! </p><p>Full review: <a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2022/11/lewca-friday-night-rockstar-album-review.html">Old Indie Kid: Lewca - Friday Night Rockstar - Album Review</a></p><p>Favourite song: Friday Night Rockstar </p><p>Twitter:<a href="https://twitter.com/lewca">@Lewca</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://lewca.bandcamp.com/album/friday-night-rockstar">https://lewca.bandcamp.com/album/friday-night-rockstar</a> Released 16/12/22</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj2t1l5G_cCYLk9RU9XOLTnaGl9qGzInCJpfbVAQ5gtxJaf9sKvdvXAMh3XldWSaGnGIJxSr1PDuGyPu0EZB19Q8uknwUj7KXbfQRz5B25LBxhplbp7F880we7XoyzU-PMyJsbXw7LOd_qb7--etsRpYyKuOHZaDkpclAlbB6Dic3z439izA6jXXEQ/s961/57C0744C-0749-4F74-A10D-5211921A0BAD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj2t1l5G_cCYLk9RU9XOLTnaGl9qGzInCJpfbVAQ5gtxJaf9sKvdvXAMh3XldWSaGnGIJxSr1PDuGyPu0EZB19Q8uknwUj7KXbfQRz5B25LBxhplbp7F880we7XoyzU-PMyJsbXw7LOd_qb7--etsRpYyKuOHZaDkpclAlbB6Dic3z439izA6jXXEQ/w320-h320/57C0744C-0749-4F74-A10D-5211921A0BAD.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#4 Joe Adhemar - About The Soul</b></p><p>Joe Adhemar’s fifth album of the decade is delivered from an artist at the top of his game. Joe’s production on his synth heavy album is quality here as he tackles different genres with ease. Listen on quality headphones to unlock deeper levels beyond my limited hearing range! Good Day For Falling (reggae), Georgio (disco), About The Soul (soulful techno), Power Lines (Electro-Waltz). He has found his preferred baritone vocal style which unites this collection despite the variety of styles on each song. Joe’s songwriting tackles subject matter including relationships with the environment, partners, friends, an electronic music pioneer, longing for return to earlier times, mental health, wealth inequality and err…power lines. (Probably some symbolism that was lost on me there). </p><p>I recorded a show with Joe Adhemar and Moby Tanner where Joe explains his album with us in a track-by-track review. <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/joe-adhemar-about-the-soul-album-introduction-with-old-indie-kid-and-moby-t/">https://www.mixcloud.com/inyourearsmusic/joe-adhemar-about-the-soul-album-introduction-with-old-indie-kid-and-moby-t/</a></p><p>Favourite song: When Our Lungs Are Empty</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/joeadhemar">@joeadhemar</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://joeadhemar.bandcamp.com/album/about-the-soul">About The Soul | Joe Adhemar (bandcamp.com)</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiceTesjiPBOgTjJPDriY7v__frOOYLq_8zUOOgzms8_wgpaEvH9OjPJ6e3_Q6PkVskEUh4Y9pbmtQa1thrrwWgvM34Jpv2r5JzTN45j15MWUwPtUTl36-x2yspktHOlFjI67VvFef5PDjeoolBtdW7Iuhgpg68fGKt6gM1bzRVujiJQMIjUfLUAo-f/s810/3DC7E77B-2525-428E-ACFE-BE0BBCE8100A.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="810" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiceTesjiPBOgTjJPDriY7v__frOOYLq_8zUOOgzms8_wgpaEvH9OjPJ6e3_Q6PkVskEUh4Y9pbmtQa1thrrwWgvM34Jpv2r5JzTN45j15MWUwPtUTl36-x2yspktHOlFjI67VvFef5PDjeoolBtdW7Iuhgpg68fGKt6gM1bzRVujiJQMIjUfLUAo-f/w320-h314/3DC7E77B-2525-428E-ACFE-BE0BBCE8100A.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#3 The Shed Project - The Curious Mind Of A Common Man</b> </p><p>The Rise of The Sheds continued this year, with the release of the long awaited debut album filled with new music anthems - A Day In The Dam, My Life, Lucky Number, Bedtime, One Shot, Feel My Love, Friend, Modern Way. It's an album of highs influenced by their heroes The Stone Roses and the Madchester scene. Roy is a legend and top dude on twitter always supportive of others. He says the next album will blow this one out of the water - hope we get to hear it in 2023. </p><p>My full album review here: <a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-shed-project-debut-album.html">Old Indie Kid: The Shed Project Debut Album</a></p><p>Favourite song: Don't Wait For No One </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/project_shed">@project_shed</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://theshedprojectuk.bandcamp.com/album/the-curious-mind-of-a-common-man">https://theshedprojectuk.bandcamp.com/album/the-curious-mind-of-a-common-man</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5FGW1AR5_NMHkoOgn1npl0SccSTW2Wx1MZCHojs9ZrdXij1is1WiBsc3iH__zJKl4WDDBMp3SSHQCyFakbzLgl652s4qzDupfRoTxbP-eczGkMHK9fgDRF73O75RYucIIfpN5Y0N_XFS4bu44Z-aJkSYx7cXphpLoObbS4_tFT8lNMQTJuI2wfHa/s817/68383BD3-ED14-4F07-B530-0F243ACC1CD6.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="817" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5FGW1AR5_NMHkoOgn1npl0SccSTW2Wx1MZCHojs9ZrdXij1is1WiBsc3iH__zJKl4WDDBMp3SSHQCyFakbzLgl652s4qzDupfRoTxbP-eczGkMHK9fgDRF73O75RYucIIfpN5Y0N_XFS4bu44Z-aJkSYx7cXphpLoObbS4_tFT8lNMQTJuI2wfHa/w320-h320/68383BD3-ED14-4F07-B530-0F243ACC1CD6.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p><b>#2 The Heavy North - Electric Soul Machine</b></p><p>One of the best bands I discovered during the initial lockdown of 2020 were Liverpool’s The Heavy North. Kenny’s distinctive vocals and the 70s soul infused blues rock sound are a killer combination. It amazes me that they don’t have a residency at Las Vegas already. Following on from the fabulous Dive Bar Blues EP the Electric Soul Machine album was a long time coming, delayed by vinyl pressing problems but worth the wait when it arrived. It’s already a classic of the 2020s with brilliant songs including Darkness In My Eyes, Awake, Satisfy You, No Good, and As Long As You’re Here With Me. And this legendary band are back in the studio at the moment working on the follow up. </p><p>Favourite song: Satisfy You </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHeavyNorth">@TheHeavyNorth</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://theheavynorth.bandcamp.com/album/electric-soul-machine">https://theheavynorth.bandcamp.com/album/electric-soul-machine</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3p0hI0zcoLZfc7TM2mmP_6l4YJuW7BGa1mwn8jeFCDf0eUMoSCJ_CDQf2IFHkWX0xzcnQcko2dZQ40nhvovDMJEO4-zROl8Dz7nrzXyh2Un2h-7Edc73VzN9bkcpUsVO4dYQJ7-K9Xns-Y4Oq3U5zut4zBuejI24t6s5MLV_xUJ0l5uVxVPNeqio/s960/ECA4620E-ACE1-486A-B004-97BADFF61B7C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="956" data-original-width="960" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3p0hI0zcoLZfc7TM2mmP_6l4YJuW7BGa1mwn8jeFCDf0eUMoSCJ_CDQf2IFHkWX0xzcnQcko2dZQ40nhvovDMJEO4-zROl8Dz7nrzXyh2Un2h-7Edc73VzN9bkcpUsVO4dYQJ7-K9Xns-Y4Oq3U5zut4zBuejI24t6s5MLV_xUJ0l5uVxVPNeqio/w320-h318/ECA4620E-ACE1-486A-B004-97BADFF61B7C.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>
<p><b>#1 The Shop Window - A 4 Letter Word</b> </p><p>The Maidstone Massive released their second album at the end of November and have taken out top billing with my album of the year. I love this band and also awarded them second place for their debut album last year. The Shoppies have turned the jangle up to eleven and have written a collection of gorgeous indie pop love anthems. Ten blissful jangle pop songs stepped in a love of the alternative music of the late eighties to mid Nineties. Whilst music can’t be adequately conveyed using words, I tried, and you can read my full review here: <a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2022/11/the-shop-window-4-letter-word.html">Old Indie Kid: The Shop Window A 4 Letter Word</a></p><p>Favourite song: Circles Go Round</p><p>Twitter:<a href="https://twitter.com/theshopwindow1">@theshopwindow1</a> </p><p>Bandcamp: <a href="https://theshopwindow.bandcamp.com/album/a-4-letter-word">A 4 Letter Word | The Shop Window (bandcamp.com)</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkMv-YuVy7E_E5AG-OzV70nIxPDSLki8aqv6q6FLTTr8X8J-Vlakt8VBsv4EN5cmrAV2tLDBApvz51VQcvjGRKaejFgWHCkjFhqkciQybCr_w1ZhtMjbmeJ4QTjC8Jut8WuHXRTWXnxhTEtPiIzBSLnwXHVfM6NIFeimqhJcZQauXVnc3c8NW2mB8/s901/C842B59F-A009-42EA-A9C6-9A01760E9AF7.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="901" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkMv-YuVy7E_E5AG-OzV70nIxPDSLki8aqv6q6FLTTr8X8J-Vlakt8VBsv4EN5cmrAV2tLDBApvz51VQcvjGRKaejFgWHCkjFhqkciQybCr_w1ZhtMjbmeJ4QTjC8Jut8WuHXRTWXnxhTEtPiIzBSLnwXHVfM6NIFeimqhJcZQauXVnc3c8NW2mB8/w400-h392/C842B59F-A009-42EA-A9C6-9A01760E9AF7.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>So that wraps up another year of awesome independent music. My partner in broadcasting crime, Moby Tanner and I will be back for a final radio show later in December. We will be counting down the top 100 songs as voted for by the new music twitter community and Louis Tomlinson’s fans. It will be the final ever #indie100cup show (cross my heart and hope to die), on InYourEarsMusic. I hope you can catch that show and see which songs made the final cut. </p><p>Thanks for reading and please share my blog to help raise awareness of the brilliant talent that exists on the underground scene. And check out some of the albums you haven’t heard yet.</p><p>Cheers Danny <a href="https://twitter.com/oldindiekid1">@oldindiekid1</a> </p><p> </p></div>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-69500356422097312632022-11-19T13:23:00.018+08:002022-11-19T13:33:35.315+08:00Lewca - Friday Night Rockstar - Album Review<p>Album released: 16/12/22 </p><p>Available from: <a href="https://lewca.bandcamp.com/music">https://lewca.bandcamp.com/music</a></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>The story so far…</b></p><p>Brixton born, Parisian commuter, Lewca has released 3 EPs between December 2020 and June 2021. The first two (3 Kids & A Mortgage and Walking The Hedgehog) appear on opposite sides of a vinyl. His third EP Geezer Pop was included alongside the first two on a CD titled Year One. Lewca has also released a number of excellent singles in collaboration with the crème de la crème of the new music scene (Sean Buckley, Ben Todd, OrangeG, Post Industrial Poets, Fire Up The Sun, The Geezer Choir, Invisible Squirrel and Le Spectre). Head over to Lewca’s Bandcamp site to order your vinyl, CD or digital downloads. </p><p>Lewca is a natural storyteller and in each song, you learn more about his life, loves, losses, dreams and realities. His songs usually contain witty self-deprecating humour, whilst others are poignant or angry at injustices in the world. </p><p>Lewca’s been influenced by everything from The Clash, Ian Dury, The Streets, Tom Waits, 2-Tone, Reggae, Hip Hop, Rave, and a thousand other artists and genres but crucially the influences aren’t mimicked, they just fuel his fire, and he retains his own character and distinctive voice. </p><p>The music assisted by his main man S.O.A.P. (DJ Son of a Pitch) takes on genres as fit the mood of each song so you can’t pigeonhole the Lewca sound. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Friday Night Rockstar - The Album</b></p><p>I’ve had early access “perks n shit” so I can provide this track-by-track album review…</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUaa5R33PHeXlJLHO1P4S-Crh7YzEgsaLPTuQ0tnxOo6Ro7hbs3ItCp1Jp4Km42MtqQqlLRPOM8XC7Z-xkI675IgaPKmgpfiiI36-06fbTwDun5cLvrn1cnh1IBd45kIoQQv4_rjivsUORrP9y_LT1lvRbgWKTu-FqWdGMv7JhaLNZ_JCYYbJuq1cF/s351/Lewca%20Friday%20Night%20Rockstar.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="351" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUaa5R33PHeXlJLHO1P4S-Crh7YzEgsaLPTuQ0tnxOo6Ro7hbs3ItCp1Jp4Km42MtqQqlLRPOM8XC7Z-xkI675IgaPKmgpfiiI36-06fbTwDun5cLvrn1cnh1IBd45kIoQQv4_rjivsUORrP9y_LT1lvRbgWKTu-FqWdGMv7JhaLNZ_JCYYbJuq1cF/s320/Lewca%20Friday%20Night%20Rockstar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Such a Cunt </p><p>Yes, this album has more than a few profanities on it so if that offends you or your sensibilities you might as well fuck off now. Still reading? Awesome! The album opens with a piano ballad and an acknowledgment that life is finite. It then offers a message of self-improvement set to wicked drum n bass track.</p><p>Friday Night Rockstar</p><p>Title track and first single from the album is an ode to the joys of being a weekend warrior. There’s some brilliant lyrics “Ain’t even made it, already overrated…since the late Nineties, I’ve been sedated”. “I’ll be yelling in a pub til they put me in the ground”. Punky metal shredding guitar riffs from John Michie and Zar Acoustic have been cut up and rearranged and these two appear on most of the album tracks. Liverpool’s psychedelic garage act Mondo Trasho also feature on the chorus. </p><p>Harmony Korine </p><p>A tale of Lewca’s 1980s childhood with a flashback inducing chorus about driving around, kids unrestrained in the backseat of a smoky car. Klaxons A bouncy electro track with klaxons. A song that deals with the passing of time and then comes full circle. The title is the name of a controversial filmmaker and skateboarder who is turning 50. I had a similar wake up call recently when I realised both Eminem and Johnny Lee Miller are both 50 now. </p><p>A Million Things </p><p>A short song about beloved comedian Bill Hicks. “This is just a ride…It feels like the Universe is falling to bits”.</p><p>Everyday Struggle </p><p>This is the flip side of Friday Night Rockstar, the daily grind and commute required to pay those bills. “It’s hard labour, I ain’t done no crime, I’m selling my life one day at a time”. Lewca acknowledges he can’t complain too much about his lot but it’s still a pain in the arse working for The Man. The music is catchy, and a bit of a bop enhanced with the awesome vocals of Oh! Paulo and the Harmonica of OrangeG.</p><p>Forget My Name </p><p>A song from the dark nights of the soul when the mind turns sour. Lewca talks of depression in the first half of the song and then says a door was opened and with help he came through the other side. Gorgeous vocals from Victory Flow lifts this song even higher making it one of the highlights of Lewca’s career. </p><p>Incredible </p><p>A song about Lewca under the influence at a karaoke party. His confidence in his abilities is chemically enhanced with James Willows crooning “I feel incredible I feel fucking awesome”. The voices in his head provided by Ambre are telling him “You’re so wicked baby loving your song I wanna listen to you all night long”. This universal acceptance of Lewca’s talent is undercut in Lewca’s own lyrics but they can’t get him off the mic. A classic single. </p>
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<p>The Love Within</p><p>Lewca’s pornographic love song to his wife set to stabbing organ and funky bass.</p><p>Radio Gigolo</p><p>A song imagining future fame, when Lewca’s a changed into mainstream big shot. “I’d be like someone else I don’t even know. So hungry for fame I’d even sell my name for some spicy wings or a TV Show”. As Lewca admitted when I interviewed him, if he ever made it as a rock n roll star, he’ll probably be dead in a couple of years. So, buy his album but don’t buy two copies. </p><p>Golden God</p><p>Lewca raps over this unhinged backing track and contains many classic rhymes “don’t fuck with my mid-life crisis, got a cocktail bitch, show me where the ice is.” “I’m way too old and I’ve got a dad bod, no connection, no money, long shot”. “It’s fine in my mind I’m a golden god.” screams Lewca. </p><p>A Song</p><p>A punk hedonistic banger with Arabic and Caribbean trimmings. Lewca tells a few stories with a common theme when an angry girl in a club, an uncaring supervisor, and finally his kids tell him to cry them a river and write a fucking song about it. This is that song. </p><p>Fell In Love With A Serial Killer </p><p>A brilliant song written by Ben Todd and given the Lewca cartoon sheen as a serious theme - holding a relationship with a woman who enjoys killing people. They say love is blind and we’ve all got to go somehow, and no-one wants to die alone… </p><p>Smoke In The Air</p><p>The acidic drum n bass beats are back on the album’s closing track. “When I’m dead and gone, and the party is over, just play my song, look over your shoulder. I’ll be there, floating like the smoke from a Saturday night in the air”. </p><p><br /></p><p>So that's the album. If you already know Lewca and have read this far you don't need any encouragement from me. Please share this review so others might discover him. If you are new to Lewca then you can find him on all the usual socials and streaming sites. </p><p>I urge you to order your copy of the excellent Friday Night Rockstar album on the format of your choice. It'll be out mid-December, so it'll make a great stocking filler for your kids! </p><p>Friday Night Rockstar is available from: <a href="https://lewca.bandcamp.com/music">https://lewca.bandcamp.com/music</a></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Further Lewca Listening... </p><p>I interviewed Lewca and played several songs from this album on my November 2022 DAFTPOM Show on InYourEarsMusic.com. Lewca interview begins at 22 minutes.</p><p><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="352" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/6OWwcIi8Yj8RKPgs3AsDhO?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe></p><p></p><p> </p><p></p><p></p><p></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Paris, France48.856614 2.352221920.546380163821155 -32.8040281 77.166847836178846 37.5084719tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-43138651937801230502022-11-14T17:27:00.000+08:002022-11-14T17:27:53.258+08:00Mixtape Nov 2022<p> This November 2022 Mixtape blog arrives on the seventh anniversary of my first monthly blog. They have been fairly sporadic over the last three years as I focused on radio shows but I’m hoping to revive them in a regular format. (Hoping but not promising). </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisuKwyg6CvKH10tfHu4bfPv2IW95cbsNvJz4rvPhwWdeWUFLWaf0-T_jZkeT7382GuhwsafwJlR3eRxDk43PWgRXzL5QX4RYjbYyq7G45kDm67AIg9IpLbCoukED74tbx6gTOVt0gS6D5s3D2Iw0CdMND38fFqqaZJHWiaV10oI8BiEdeM5Jsk3OFp/s554/ED1D153D-05D8-4AE4-B323-C1256F905E70.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="554" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisuKwyg6CvKH10tfHu4bfPv2IW95cbsNvJz4rvPhwWdeWUFLWaf0-T_jZkeT7382GuhwsafwJlR3eRxDk43PWgRXzL5QX4RYjbYyq7G45kDm67AIg9IpLbCoukED74tbx6gTOVt0gS6D5s3D2Iw0CdMND38fFqqaZJHWiaV10oI8BiEdeM5Jsk3OFp/w200-h200/ED1D153D-05D8-4AE4-B323-C1256F905E70.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p>Here’s twenty recent tunes I recommend you listen to and the playlist to stream as you read. If you can support the independent artists with a purchase, share their music or this blog, they and I will be very grateful. </p>
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<p><br /></p><p>1) I Don’t Feel Today - Common Goldfish</p><p>Tottenham based band making groovy tunes that sonically hark back to the Madchester scene. Common Goldfish have released three excellent singles to date - Shout Louder and Feel The Fuzz are the other two. A band that I have really been enjoying since discovering them in the submittracks@inyourearsmusic.com inbox. <a href="https://threesignrecords.bandcamp.com/track/i-dont-feel-today">I Don't Feel Today | common goldfish (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p><br /></p><p>2) My House - 3 Little Wolves 🐺🐺🐺</p><p>My House sounds like The Cure during their Pornography era mixed with the melodic tunes of Peter Hook’s Monaco. It has been a pleasure to hear the development of this band over the last few years. Frontman Paul was an old friend of mine since the 1990s and I’m so pleased that his band have been going from strength to strength and have a debut album expected early 2023. <a href="https://3littlewolves.bandcamp.com/">3 Little Wolves (bandcamp.com)</a> </p><p><br /></p><p>3) Devil Bar Blues - Jack Gill</p><p>Jack Gill hails from Liverpool and delves into heavy blues riffs. Fans of The Heavy North and Mexican Dogs should check out his back catalogue as I am. A live album and about six previous singles to discover if you’re digging this recent song.</p><p><br /></p><p>4) I Wanna Be Overrated - YNES </p><p>Perhaps the wittiest lyricists out there on the underground scene backed with well-produced snotty punk music. “I wanna be truly hated by someone than myself. I wanna be overrated”. Looks like this is the eleventh single and the ones I know are all brilliant. Hopefully YNES will feel overrated by my review. <a href="https://ynesmusic.bandcamp.com/">YNES (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p> </p>
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<p><br /></p><p>5) Rush - Jaap Stamina</p><p>Kent based electro artist who has released a huge trance tune that takes me right back to the Nineties. It’s got a menacing pounding beat, acidic squiggles, a chilled interlude and a glorious build up and it bangs like a couple of horny rabbits. This one is released on 18th November. <a href="https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/jaapstamina/rush">Pre-save Rush by Jaap Stamina</a></p><p><br /></p><p>6) Rock N Roll Ain’t Dead While We’re Living - Laurie Wright </p><p>This is a glam rock stomper with a lo-fi punk sheen. London’s Laurie Wright has been releasing loads of great modern punk rock songs lately and this one is a life-affirming sing-along song with elements of The Clash and Slade thrown together. <a href="https://lauriewright.bandcamp.com/music">Laurie Wright (bandcamp.com)</a></p>
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<p><br /></p><p>7) 80s Clowns - Feardrops</p><p>Synthesizers and drums provide an eerie music, similar to Tubeway Army, with lyrics about “Winter in a forest town, haunted by those 80s Clowns”. This could easily appear on a Stranger Things soundtrack. Feardrops are a new project based in China that have released five singles in 2022 but have relatively few listeners - so they need to be heard. </p><p><br /></p><p>8) Taste The Brainbow - Blokeacola </p><p>Taste The Brainbow was the first single taken from Blokecola's excellent Wig Game EP. The lyrical content is darker than previous releases and Blokeacola has used cut n paste phrases from the internet as his lyrics which certainly makes this a unique project. Despite the oppressive themes there is still dark humour here "Not even Facebook wants my data". The music and vocals are wonderful and the whole EP is worthwhile investment of your time (and some coins). <a href="https://blokeacola.bandcamp.com/album/wig-game">Wig Game | Blokeacola (bandcamp.com)</a> </p><p><br /></p><p>9) Silent Fears - Echo Northstar </p><p>New wave minimalist keyboards, a persistent drumbeat and a beautiful voice rising above it all. A wonderful piece of music from a London based Irishman. Also check out his previous single Someone Else which I played on my DAFTPOM Show a few months ago. <a href="https://echonorthstar.bandcamp.com/">Echo Northstar (bandcamp.com)</a></p>
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<p><br /></p><p>10) Fly Away - Romy </p><p>Romy is a teenage sensation (13) who is writing and recording songs well in advance of her years. Fly Away is a song about wanting to escape when faced with memories sparked by a photo. Romy plays acoustic guitars and sings her heart out. She has released six songs this year and is one to watch for the future. <a href="https://romy5.bandcamp.com/track/fly-away">Fly Away | Romy (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p><br /></p><p>11) Death Masks - Lossline</p><p>Manchester's Lossline bring the drums on this upbeat gloomy anthem. The lyrics are universal and depressing but there is beauty in the bleakness - perhaps the majesty of the music carries it. "And we sleep with white noise because our thoughts are too loud. And we sleep next to our phones, cos we just can't switch off, anything, anytime for anyone". Taken from the album When I Look Out I See No Stars. Lossline are a band to wallow in. <a href="https://lossline.bandcamp.com/album/when-i-look-out-i-see-no-stars">When I Look Out I See No Stars | Lossline (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p><br /></p><p>12) Radioactive Hybrid Terror Pigs - Joe Peacock </p><p>A blistering tornado of guitars and pounding drums sees Joe with his most aggressive sound yet. Surprising from Joe who is an old hippy friend from my student days. You never know what to expect from Mr Peacock, from one release to the next but there is always an intriguing personal or historical story behind each song. This one deals with animals taking over the land deserted by humans in the wake of a nuclear disaster. Some great grunting noises at the end too. <a href="https://joepeacock.bandcamp.com/">Joe Peacock (bandcamp.com)</a></p>
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<p><br /></p><p>13) We Need Light In The Dark - Tobisonics </p><p>The title track of Tonbisonic's debut album is beat track, a bell chiming, a repetitive chant, strange noises that appear in your headphones, samples and 80's keyboards to build up a great electro track. The album was written about his battles with his mental health issues and contains seven top tunes. </p><p><a href="https://tobisonics.bandcamp.com/album/we-need-light-in-the-dark">We Need Light in the Dark | Tobisonics (bandcamp.com)</a></p><div><br /></div><div><p>14) When Our Lungs Are Empty - Joe Adhemar</p><p>The final track of Joe Adhemar's fifth album is a stunner - the album About The Soul has been released on Bandcamp, CD, and a very tasty Vinyl. It is finally coming to the streaming sites in December. World weariness is a style that Joe has nailed here and the closing chants of "fade away" are a perfect ending for this album which mixes up the genres and incorporates more electronic synthesizer elements than his previous work (outside of the Invisible Squirrel alter-ego). <a href="https://joeadhemar.bandcamp.com/album/about-the-soul">About The Soul | Joe Adhemar (bandcamp.com)</a> </p><p><br /></p></div><p>15) Save My Soul - Solar Eyes</p><p>Save Our Souls is a great psychedelic space rock song from Birmingham’s Solar Eyes. It is taken from their second EP Alcatraz released at the end of October. There is plenty to love about this band so give them a follow and we can all go for a trip together. </p>
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<p><br /></p><p>16) Chemical Burn - Lyon Tide </p><p>A dance banger from Birmingham's Lyon Tide. They have embraced their inner Chemical Brothers and written a biological love song that really kicks. It is the opening song from their amazing second album Life Pop Bang which deserves a much wider audience. I recommend you check out the album. Trust me! <a href="https://lyontide.bandcamp.com/album/life-pop-bang">Life Pop Bang | Lyon Tide (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p><br /></p><p>17) Shelly Gold - GreenCircles and Ollie Winder</p><p>Ollie wrote the lyrics and teamed up with Newcastle band GreenCircles who provided the music and backing vocals. It sounds like an early Roses song, complete with reversed guitar parts, a Jackon Pollock/John Squire paint splatter artwork. It's got quality lyrics and music and I hope you love it as much as I do. <a href="https://greencircles1.bandcamp.com/track/shelly-gold">Shelly Gold | GreenCircles and Ollie Winder (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p> </p><p>18) Wrote For Luck - Kinfauns</p><p>The combined vocals of the wonderful Amelia Coburn duetting with Andrew Johnson, singing the lyrics of Shaun William Ryder and playing the music of Happy Mondays on ukulele and acoustic guitar. The result is gorgeous as you can hear. <a href="https://andrewjohnson1.bandcamp.com/track/wrote-for-luck-one-longer-version">Wrote For Luck | Kinfauns (bandcamp.com)</a> </p>
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<p><br /></p><p>19) Forget My Name - Lewca</p><p>The next single from Lewca's forthcoming Friday Night Rockstar album. I think this is one of the most powerful tracks from Lewca so far. It features vocals from Victory Flow and has stunned the listeners to my recent DAFTPOM show. It pulls at the heartstrings as a tale of struggling and fighting against the odds. The album is out Mid December and can be ordered here... <a href="https://lewca.bandcamp.com/album/friday-night-rockstar">Friday Night Rockstar | Lewca (bandcamp.com)</a></p><p><br /></p><p>20) Change Is On The Horizon - Voldo</p><p>Groovy laidback beats, weird noises and samples "Gotta make a change" this has a contempory feel but is steeped in deep cuts from their record collections. Taken from the new Voldo album Melting Pot which, as its name implies, takes all their influences and forges something new and compelling. <a href="https://nunnyboy.bandcamp.com/album/melting-pot-album">Melting Pot | Voldo (bandcamp.com)</a> </p><p><br /></p><p>Please also check out my blog reviewing The Shop Window's second album which is released at the end of November. I'll be back next month with my blog on my albums of the year. </p><p><br /></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-55761226688366692392022-11-02T18:30:00.008+08:002022-11-02T19:03:49.727+08:00The Shop Window A 4 Letter Word <h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>Album Review</b></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>A 4 Letter Word</b></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>The Shop Window</b></h2><p style="text-align: center;">reviewed by Old Indie Kid </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyO4ZelMQbjKtej3Nlj7m-VZSZADWf1SDZSbTKseJf7qnIgaE6D5GxnmGB2tLdBlFeMci6-ckq5jkiXk31Xl4Fqydu8vf0VhTOesWYOkGSHoprh5wVrqLGmmKpUnKjnUV_lkZ5tuvXfCgSoE0dDQWSGIyeA4WvbaaTZr7M3lLaEvQRE63Q39TUDjY8/s1600/mail.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyO4ZelMQbjKtej3Nlj7m-VZSZADWf1SDZSbTKseJf7qnIgaE6D5GxnmGB2tLdBlFeMci6-ckq5jkiXk31Xl4Fqydu8vf0VhTOesWYOkGSHoprh5wVrqLGmmKpUnKjnUV_lkZ5tuvXfCgSoE0dDQWSGIyeA4WvbaaTZr7M3lLaEvQRE63Q39TUDjY8/s320/mail.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Release date: 25th November 2022 on Vinyl & CD with a d</span><span style="text-align: left;">igital release in December. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Pre-order a physical copy today before they sell out! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://theshopwindow.bandcamp.com/music">theshopwindow.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.spinoutproductions.com/shop/">spinoutproductions.com/shop/</a></p>
<p>Maidstone’s greatest indie jangle pop band, The Shop Window have returned with a second album of delicious aural treats. But before I dive into that, let's reflect on their journey so far. During the Britpop years Carl & Syd were members of 90's band Westpier - label mates of Sleeper. The friends reunited in 2018 when Carl returned to Kent after years of living overseas and they added Phil and Martin to complete The Shop Window line-up. Their first release was on Bandcamp at Christmas 2019, and they followed up during the lockdowns with a string of singles, a 7" vinyl, and award-winning videos before dropping their debut album in June 2021 - <b>The State Of Being Human</b>. </p><p>Mere months after the debut album, they started playing gigs and releasing singles from the follow up, which will soon be in your hands, your ears and your life. They have released a second 7" on indie label Spinout Nuggets, a wonderful acoustic EP (raising funds for MacMillan Cancer Support), a second Christmas single, and a Forgotten single in collaboration with new music legends Sean Buckley, Jen Dixon & Chris James Willows. </p><p>The second album has been in the can for months, but they delayed the release date until confirmation that the vinyl pressing plants could keep up with the demand for this highly anticipated second album. No need to fear - Spinout Nuggets and the band are pleased to announce they are taking pre-orders and licking stamps, so your stockings needn't be empty this Christmas! </p><p>But how does this second set rate as a collection of songs? Does it hang together well, does it have overarching themes, maybe even a character ark? That’s what I will now attempt to answer, with a track-by-track review. I will also be trying to decipher the cryptic crossword clue set in the album's title - <b>A 4 Letter Word</b>. Crucially, what is <i>that</i> word, and more importantly, is it a rude one?</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSCa2qUuC986M-bn2yaqHRH3m0Nt-AZYWgsNACOu-IIPF3JfpaBArc2WVK1wRAFMc8lUvki7DPO_OwFBtaNcLjd9HJB91A-OHG0delQ5QYbOBHP2nG8npy0xYWhMUIGjUAgkbHHkCdT-krXwCWXrHJKz3Ut7_KgA7Q_1RDDjLoh66t5v-283n6mqT/s992/mail%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="992" data-original-width="811" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSCa2qUuC986M-bn2yaqHRH3m0Nt-AZYWgsNACOu-IIPF3JfpaBArc2WVK1wRAFMc8lUvki7DPO_OwFBtaNcLjd9HJB91A-OHG0delQ5QYbOBHP2nG8npy0xYWhMUIGjUAgkbHHkCdT-krXwCWXrHJKz3Ut7_KgA7Q_1RDDjLoh66t5v-283n6mqT/s320/mail%20(1).png" width="262" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Shoppies 2022</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Eyes Wide Shut</b>, a recent 7" single, opens the album with a gorgeous slice of upbeat jangle cake with a catchy chorus and harmonies. My favourite part is the second half when the vocals end (no offence intended), but this is when the music rises, and you can enjoy the tightness of the band. Some great "Wah-Wah" effects, and the final moments remind me of something just out of reach - perhaps the strings heard on Jollification by The Lightning Seeds? Solid start to album #2.<p></p>
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<p><b>With Love To Lead</b>, the second track, is full of imagined chivalrous actions as Kings, Princes and Knights fight each other to win the hand of ye Maiden fair. Noble quests are undertaken, and honourable stands are made. I think the 4-Letter Word must be one highly favoured by The Beatles, and it's the unifying theme of the album.</p><p><b>The Lay Of The Land </b>was the first single released way back in November 2021. Musically, The Shoppies are drifting into the otherworldliness of 60's psychedelia (Pictures of Matchstick Men) and borrowing images from Lewis Carroll’s <i>Alice In Wonderland</i>. The opening line “Time will take its toll down the rabbit hole” also links to one of the major themes from the debut album - that of aging. The song also confirms that LOVE is "the meaning of life". The song's reference to Magpies links to the imagery for the single and album covers - each has a silhouette of an animal with a heart. </p>
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<p><b>Dancing Light</b> is a wonderful composition, echoing the jangling goodness of a Smiths record. Dancing Light is sweetness and light and has a stirring chorus full of emotion. Great harmonics on the repeated refrain "Let me feel the love , sweeps me up in waves, falling from above, moves in many ways". It’s a tender song that lets the listeners in behind The Shop Window. </p><p><b>It’s By Design</b> deals with the idea of whether fate or chance determines who we form relationships with. "Stars aligned to make this history, so they say". The musical interplay between the band is excellent and very engaging to the listener, especially in what I will term the middle eight / bridge / bit in the middle with no singing. (I dropped out of recorder lessons aged 5 and my musical terminology has only marginally improved). Trust me it's very catchy and this would be a stand-out track for most albums - but a 4 Letter Word has such a high-quality threshold that it's an album of highlights. </p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDxT7cvmzcCBIgWgS83d1hyF1Fx0jAHu7eQ8zPA_7UVfu9qjCAwZPCgpi-cXMUFzwv7T9am2FKkBdilqqRMvQfQYxDiuqn0riZs-_-Q3hvpgXmGoNb5jN5ZHeaW7MmkvFKIIINuW7ilF-u4ZI7oyAXIhmFjacicTNXbQcV4QGOiVX1QJstjuVPe7O/s1331/FgOayuPWYAIGiMm.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1331" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDxT7cvmzcCBIgWgS83d1hyF1Fx0jAHu7eQ8zPA_7UVfu9qjCAwZPCgpi-cXMUFzwv7T9am2FKkBdilqqRMvQfQYxDiuqn0riZs-_-Q3hvpgXmGoNb5jN5ZHeaW7MmkvFKIIINuW7ilF-u4ZI7oyAXIhmFjacicTNXbQcV4QGOiVX1QJstjuVPe7O/s320/FgOayuPWYAIGiMm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><b>Circles Go Round</b> is the opening song on Side B (get it on vinyl if you want your circle to go around). Circles Go Round sounds like former single Out Of Reach's riff and beats were put in a blender on high speed. It’s another jaunty Smiths-esque tune that seems to oscillate between speeds. It’s bound to have crowds of middle-aged fans putting their backs out trying to dance to this at live gigs. The song was written about Carl and Syd, getting the band back together and creating new music as old friends. "Jump start the heart again, sit back and ride the wave... Years roll by, let this define us". </p><p></p><p><b>Lighthouse</b> is a truly fantastic song. A tale of anxiety being overcome by LOVE, hope, and other ace things. A lovely LOVE song written by Carl to his wife. "When you radiate light it's a window to the heart of you. Lighthouse of hope sending a beacon to my call". It'll melt your heart and leave you singing, "ba ba-ba ba-ba ba" as it fades away. </p><p> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eMGyMe7Lyek" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </p><p><b>That Feeling </b>is, in my humble opinion, the closest The Shop Window have come to the early sounds of The Stone Roses, and that's not a comparison I make lightly. This is perfect lush indie pop and wrapped up in less than 3 minutes. The chorus proclaims, "When I get that That Feeling I'm alive". (However, the correct answer is "I need sexual healing"). </p><p><b>Maid Of Stone</b> is catchy, yet mysterious. To me it speaks of childhood and a mother's LOVE "It's in this place where we began, where we walked before we ran" and "Inspiration - TV Screens, in shop windows, chasing dreams, Sheltered by a Maid of Stone". I absolutely adore this song from my Maidstone brothers. </p><p><b>Low</b> sounds magnificent and it is well placed as the final track on the album. The frustration of the Covid lockdowns is captured by the lyrics "A year disappeared, frozen in time, never get it back, Mother Nature's crime". A world-weary song where Carl sings of "running on fumes" and a determination to keep your head above water and try not to fall into despair. The music is heavily influenced by the slower majestic Blur songs - and it wears it well. It builds to a good place and ends the album with LOVE as the savior. </p><p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U3vg5_2cEWY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </p><p>Conclusion - if you loved the first album - this is even better. If you haven't discovered The Shop Window before, then are you in for a treat! </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8LjmhqMDgLfZHnAyycGBlE6wLkV01uM9yk4nFNA1f3rvTgTBGv_wmGEvwy4oMtGNU7y7scgeUEooP0MJ5cnrJbTEXT7YvDOfifID52t-t8QU-MS6k1_sddRRC51gHOGLihUabtPZeLCzEjzjaJQzW5J2TGzWCnJ4n8KANudloiz7F2iJtcQw2aaU/s1331/FgOayuPXwAAs9Oj.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1331" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8LjmhqMDgLfZHnAyycGBlE6wLkV01uM9yk4nFNA1f3rvTgTBGv_wmGEvwy4oMtGNU7y7scgeUEooP0MJ5cnrJbTEXT7YvDOfifID52t-t8QU-MS6k1_sddRRC51gHOGLihUabtPZeLCzEjzjaJQzW5J2TGzWCnJ4n8KANudloiz7F2iJtcQw2aaU/s320/FgOayuPXwAAs9Oj.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://theshopwindow.bandcamp.com/music" style="text-align: justify;">theshopwindow.bandcamp.com/</a><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.spinoutproductions.com/shop/">spinoutproductions.com/shop/</a></p><p><b>Further reading</b> - My review of The Shop Window debut album
<u><a href="http://oldindiekid.blogspot.com.au/2021/05/album-review-shop-window.html"> The State Of Being Human</a></u></p><p><b>Did you know???</b> Carl co-wrote a song called Ocean Blue sang by Kylie Minogue. Hear it below. </p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-WwB-EM-q8">(50) Ocean Blue (B-Side) Kylie Minogue - YouTube</a></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Maidstone, UK51.270363 0.52269922.960129163821158 -34.633551 79.580596836178842 35.678949tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-51167920254600003652022-08-06T01:38:00.000+08:002022-08-06T01:38:29.439+08:00Sonica \\\ Inception EP<p>As a huge consumer and supporter of underground independent music I am always on the lookout for new talent and I think I discovered the West Australian band Sonica via Triple J Unearthed website. The Perth based four-piece formed in 2019 and comprise of Alan Pettigrew (guitars), Roshan Weddikkara (bass), Slyvain Ayrault (drums) and Claire Turton (vocals). </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFvuAH5g7am8vYUeJnXjkjAk0ERh-nPogEAwfy3A60AHAu1CTtmJXGKvqkIAG5fJ7ZBRUq6D74EpBKgKtt3k367bnwt-bUEhnn-GJCaubCscw68913Kke30gy0LKInpdEWU8-8uUhaZ8nk4luA4eflnJ1zwHskNzo9G9aJBibt5M8t8UjyzFM9Hvt-/s684/029379C9-37AE-4E20-9B75-61174F341B27.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="676" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFvuAH5g7am8vYUeJnXjkjAk0ERh-nPogEAwfy3A60AHAu1CTtmJXGKvqkIAG5fJ7ZBRUq6D74EpBKgKtt3k367bnwt-bUEhnn-GJCaubCscw68913Kke30gy0LKInpdEWU8-8uUhaZ8nk4luA4eflnJ1zwHskNzo9G9aJBibt5M8t8UjyzFM9Hvt-/s320/029379C9-37AE-4E20-9B75-61174F341B27.jpeg" width="316" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: arial;">Sonica Photo by <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(108, 117, 125); font-size: 15.84000015258789px; letter-spacing: -0.35199999809265137px;">Skylar Slate Photography</span></span></div><p></p><p>I played their first two singles on my Daftpom radio show and have been following them since. In May ‘22 they released their debut four track EP titled Inception. </p><p><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3kgsO1LyQhcuOAPTW5Ug69?si=JOzK470gQvqAw6va05fHJA">Sonica \\\ Inception EP on Spotify</a></p><p>The EP opens with Places, a jangly guitar number, supported by a rumbling bass line, drums and ethereal female vocals. The music transitions into woozy shoegaze territory as it soars with distorted guitars. The opening song clocks in at 5 and a half minutes so there is no lack of ambition here. There are influences of many of 80’s and early 90’s bands on display on this EP. </p><p>Second track Life could be a cross between The Cure and The Cocteau Twins and continues the dream like state that permeates this collection. These songs can be played on a loop and you’ll be forgiven if you enter a trance.</p><p>Charmed is a six minute hypnotic tune showcasing the haunting classically trained vocals of Claire evoking memories of Curve’s Toni Halliday and Kate Bush. The lyrics aren’t always clear but this is expected when the vocals are used as another instrument blended into the atmospheric mix. </p><p>The final track on the EP is Descent into Blue, a remastered version of their debut single originally released in February ‘21. Opening with Roshan’s infectious bass riff that sets the song’s dark mood. It is an outstanding song which deals with the breakdown of a relationship soundtracked by an epic finale of crashing drums and dirty guitars. </p><p>Sonica have released a blinding debut collection and I look forward to future releases from the Perth band and seeing where they go from here. Follow them on the socials and streaming platforms here… <a href="http://www.sonicabandau.com/">http://www.sonicabandau.com/</a></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0England, UK52.3555177 -1.174319752.009755201809654 -1.72363610625 52.701280198190346 -0.62500329375000008tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-39597844935528127372022-07-07T09:44:00.000+08:002022-07-07T09:44:07.642+08:00Album Review Cime<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Independence of Central America Remains An Unfinished Experiment by Cime</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PdIK9kxPWVG-5coetwPooZhychuQCMLxjV3n--4ZeRXYmGEAOV5XR189AjWFqVsLLuWEZ3iSrRB5_lYyJ_2hXqeOA1cwuTy1pWJq_KfROGTYbMwDWJ3p7yPSFGSVG4Lm34GfRG1X_wNJmKEVomLx5frp14-d-p6dArMoC1iojINnxQvcQFpDg405/s708/33E6E2BB-1815-425A-9984-983CBC14AFB5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="708" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PdIK9kxPWVG-5coetwPooZhychuQCMLxjV3n--4ZeRXYmGEAOV5XR189AjWFqVsLLuWEZ3iSrRB5_lYyJ_2hXqeOA1cwuTy1pWJq_KfROGTYbMwDWJ3p7yPSFGSVG4Lm34GfRG1X_wNJmKEVomLx5frp14-d-p6dArMoC1iojINnxQvcQFpDg405/s320/33E6E2BB-1815-425A-9984-983CBC14AFB5.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>This is an album I was given an advance listen to a few months ago and it is certainly an unusual way to pass a half hour. Strange rhythm patterns, maracas, a mixture of Spanish vocals and English poetry readings. Lo-fi recordings, coughs, tinkling symbols and distorted instruments that I can’t even place. It is a concept album about presumably the history of Latin America. I know very little about this period of history and I’ve never been further south than Denver in the Americas. But I’ve listened to enough Flaming Lips albums which is a good grounding to enjoy this album. </p><p>The voices swirling around and impersonations of crowds, interspersed with personal observations, jokes and historical narratives are chaotic but all the more interesting for that. </p><p>If you enjoy the ramshackle experimentation of Foxygen and early Beck records with then this is an album for you. If you favour Oasis wannabes then this is not your scene. This album (TIOCAIAUE) which I’ve already given an acronym is heavily influenced by the greats of psychedelic rock and sounds like it was recorded on some great psychedelics.</p><p>Cime pronounced (Ceemay) is the Californian DIY artist behind this project. @cimebarrilete on Twitter </p><p>The album was released on 1st July 2022. Digital downloads and CDs available from Bandcamp. <a href="https://theccg.bandcamp.com/">https://theccg.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p>Also available on streaming sites</p><p><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/2Cg0Wh6Eyhzd7pEeXMhGjl?si=EaJv3-FlQVyYDP4lAWZapg">https://open.spotify.com/album/2Cg0Wh6Eyhzd7pEeXMhGjl?si=EaJv3-FlQVyYDP4lAWZapg</a></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-82287887561931247972022-03-23T18:42:00.000+08:002022-03-23T18:42:13.122+08:00The Shed Project Debut Album<p>A band who emerged from a Shed in Bolton and only released their first single in January 2020 have created one of the most anticipated albums of the year. </p><div style="text-align: center;">The Curious Mind Of A Common Man</div><div style="text-align: center;">The Shed Project</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhuTt9_2WFc1IekFd7BS1tpYSinn-ZLywhffHo9Kbj7fs7aub_0aECd7HgqGUP1NuV8lxqfjn6orF1Umfof4ZcJfbpz_AjMi5bJEB7_63qUjg4gtNeKvACe5HdwjInx7j1YXYf691_ma5sApBv7hCKf2k-nChZhINglutqMekF8t7Pn7J6rjvGgjflh=s586" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="586" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhuTt9_2WFc1IekFd7BS1tpYSinn-ZLywhffHo9Kbj7fs7aub_0aECd7HgqGUP1NuV8lxqfjn6orF1Umfof4ZcJfbpz_AjMi5bJEB7_63qUjg4gtNeKvACe5HdwjInx7j1YXYf691_ma5sApBv7hCKf2k-nChZhINglutqMekF8t7Pn7J6rjvGgjflh=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Like so many of us, of a certain vintage, it is heavily influenced by the spirit of the Roses and sounds absolutely mint. Before I give a track by track review I would like to talk about the band and their attitude. I am basing this mostly on Roy Fletcher, singer songwriter and main mouthpiece who is very active on the socials. The Sheds are a great bunch of blokes, Roy, Tim, John, Ollie and Shane. They’re funny, humble, friendly whilst totally believing in their abilities. They champion others in the music scene and there’s no aloofness here. They are a bunch of mates and want others to join them. I haven’t seen them live but those who have will confirm it isn’t an audience watching a band, its a party with everyone invested in the good vibes. A sign of their class was shouting out previous band members on their promotional posters for the album. “Once in, never out”.</p><p>So they’ve got loads of good will on their side and great expectations for the debut album, but is it any good? Will it twist your melon or should you call the cops? Here's my track by track review. </p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Side A</p><p>Modern Way</p><p>The swagger of Ian Brown mooching on stage and a minute of sexy guitar riffs introduce the album with a beast of a tune. The percussion is spot on Roses fans are gonna love it. It’s over six minutes long but I’ld happily listen to a 12 minute version - it’s that good. Roy’s lyrics are uplifting encouraging you to get up and stand proud when you’re feeling beaten down by the system and life. It’s a call to everyone suffering and struggling in their lives. The message is to find strength in the love of your friends and family. And stick it to The Man whilst you’re at it.</p><p>Amsterdam </p><p>The narcotic mini break to the Dam was a mega single last year, one of seven singles released over the last two years that makes it to the album. Amsterdam opens with the sounds of bicycle bells, trams and The Shed Project trying to make it across the street in a hazy adventure. It’s such a feel good song that they are probably entitled to a grant from the Dutch Tourist Board. The trippiness takes off as a little Beatlesesque Day In The Life sound montage is followed by the tempo suddenly taking off as the trip starts to get out of control. </p><p>My Life</p><p>Song three is the amazing autobiographical tale of life as a kid growing up in the 80s. Being of the same age as Roy, this really resonates with me. A song about growing up, taking knocks, and being defiant that you can rise again and believe in yourself. The music is wonderful and you should all know it by now - if not put it on!</p><p>Temptation </p><p>A new song that reminds me of the Inspiral Carpets and early Charlatans. Underpinned by a great bass line with jangly guitars. A song about offering help to a friend who’s fallen into addiction. It’s an upbeat banger despite the message that you can fall too far into temptation.</p><p>Sal</p><p>A gorgeous love song sung to Sal. It sounds a little like The Shed Project covering Fleetwood Mac’s Albertrous at double speed. With the tropical birdsong samples it places it on a warm island beach in my mind. </p><p>Lucky Number</p><p>Roy continues his wooing and outlines his best pick up techniques in Lucky Number, a early single and the first Shed Project songs I heard back in 2020. The early singles have all been remixed for the album as their production skills have rocketed over the last year.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjnJ6_5S3SQoiL1XARQcxxusQpLAECx8yA4weKCRtTtvz1eIK-U3OzjeqlpVZMHbObTqLx-MG06mf_rvr-mtIQHq_rOIsSG4qKtmRvszP19Nsts6KuuT29Mu0l7ndix9-g__2XkCcaruoZ81ERjUvh1p6yXalRliDdIbpmgqhYDsoR2PE_LNnJ4P2Th=s1084" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1084" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjnJ6_5S3SQoiL1XARQcxxusQpLAECx8yA4weKCRtTtvz1eIK-U3OzjeqlpVZMHbObTqLx-MG06mf_rvr-mtIQHq_rOIsSG4qKtmRvszP19Nsts6KuuT29Mu0l7ndix9-g__2XkCcaruoZ81ERjUvh1p6yXalRliDdIbpmgqhYDsoR2PE_LNnJ4P2Th=s320" width="319" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Side B</div><p></p><p>Bedtime </p><p>Side B starts with Bedtime. I’m calling it Side B because I fully expect a vinyl release at some point, even though the initial releases will be digital and on CD. There is even a vinyl crackle mixed into the beginning of Bedtime on the recording so “I hear my needle hit the groove”. This is a song that deals with a troubled mind, fearing the night terrors. Bedtime was released as a single raising funds for a mental health charity last year. It’s got a great sound and reminds me of The Verve and Spiritualized as it builds to it’s finale and prayers are raised whilst the strings swoon in. Class! </p><p>Livin’</p><p>A tale of hard grind and weekend hedonism. The mix has elevated this song from its murky beginnings as the debut single and it sounds really crisp now. It has an Oasis B-side feel to it and heralds the end of the chilled section.</p><p>Don’t Wait For No-one</p><p>OMG! Without any warning, a hurricane of beats, jagged punky guitars and squelchy acid noises erupts. I’m all in! We’re now joyriding the Bolton bus on two wheels hurtling ‘round Banger Corner. This is the album’s Beggin’ You and it’s a highlight on a album of highs.</p><p>One Shot</p><p>Another top new mix of an early single. One Shot is a joyous blast of fun that’s placed just where you need it. “One Shot, One Goal, Gotta Live Your Life Before You Get Old”. This is The Shed’s shot and they are living it large - even without their mate MC Tunes on this version.</p><p>Feel My Love</p><p>And the tunes keep coming - Feel My Love is as high as a falsetto dripping in chiming guitars with the biggest chorus on the album. </p><p>Friend </p><p>So the album signs off with blistering rabble rousing crunchy guitars and unhinged beat-fest like a XTRMTR era Primal Scream. This new single is out in April (or now on bandcamp) and will definitely surprise many who think they know what to expect. The finale again goes atmospheric and then suddenly silence and you are in awe of what you’ve just listened to. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVX3ZX8yOgFZFv3FnjWQwOeTVGfna9mIpy_NO75g_Zey88b2r5Njw16A4HeeJq2wxFmfSprE5SnsWsKI4xIa4s8iPZldT5rORPXJDu2myUlNQ3oWsfKQNHe0LLdCVzMmNRrLDREu6Fqxl8wE5ZRGg2UX4WKgq7L6PZvdHr1QKjjEvjjpJG4xzHT3L7=s1080" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVX3ZX8yOgFZFv3FnjWQwOeTVGfna9mIpy_NO75g_Zey88b2r5Njw16A4HeeJq2wxFmfSprE5SnsWsKI4xIa4s8iPZldT5rORPXJDu2myUlNQ3oWsfKQNHe0LLdCVzMmNRrLDREu6Fqxl8wE5ZRGg2UX4WKgq7L6PZvdHr1QKjjEvjjpJG4xzHT3L7=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Pre-save the album here…</div><a href="https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/theshedproject/the-curious-mind-of-a-common-man">https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/theshedproject/the-curious-mind-of-a-common-man</a><div><br /><div>Pre-order a digital album from bandcamp here…</div><div><a href="https://theshedprojectuk.bandcamp.com/">https://theshedprojectuk.bandcamp.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Keep an eye on the website for merch…</div><div><a href="https://oneloverecords.co.uk/">https://oneloverecords.co.uk/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /><p>The Curious Mind of A Common Man by The Shed Project delivers in spades. It proudly shows off it’s influences, the same great bands we’ve all grown up with, and it’s an equal (whispers “Sometimes better”).</p><p style="text-align: right;">Oldindiekid Feb 2022</p></div></div></div>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Bolton, UK53.576864699999987 -2.428219253.536060797855143 -2.49688375078125 53.617668602144832 -2.35955464921875tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-46597553007195157202021-12-19T13:51:00.000+08:002021-12-19T13:51:09.807+08:00Albums of 2021<p>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. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhv7fIKqWnO4IMk3UCB-8ntLc-fsFRd-Rje4xjaG6tJ0Bu1wlYUB0_pUYOMTiU40V9f8ZNQ4MSmaPCS8zZXUW024udkAse9M5UDZKpLNzCvcjgZ3jehuvdTc8mkhwtkhyrApb_ecMzHzVCsJ8jhha91URLUSdCOvhppSr5GWE012_bOnXBoR-16-qMO=s3716" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2469" data-original-width="3716" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhv7fIKqWnO4IMk3UCB-8ntLc-fsFRd-Rje4xjaG6tJ0Bu1wlYUB0_pUYOMTiU40V9f8ZNQ4MSmaPCS8zZXUW024udkAse9M5UDZKpLNzCvcjgZ3jehuvdTc8mkhwtkhyrApb_ecMzHzVCsJ8jhha91URLUSdCOvhppSr5GWE012_bOnXBoR-16-qMO=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<h4>#30 Quivers - Golden Doubt </h4><div>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. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8eJ_YYLQP_DomlsmnBrLsBMW-OYC2E2B0SEPDS624i98RrOZCU8-0KD2xL2dvLtHvMwnUmlWNxl1BrBJ19uMXe2O8WCqf66evTZuTe2UitPRe_eB1EzU6pgyUuf3jgGZJMifzKrKszSleZZb0i9AhfRyZuk2hTwkILI1CXPf2JhNtiHCDnzKrEm0v=s400" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8eJ_YYLQP_DomlsmnBrLsBMW-OYC2E2B0SEPDS624i98RrOZCU8-0KD2xL2dvLtHvMwnUmlWNxl1BrBJ19uMXe2O8WCqf66evTZuTe2UitPRe_eB1EzU6pgyUuf3jgGZJMifzKrKszSleZZb0i9AhfRyZuk2hTwkILI1CXPf2JhNtiHCDnzKrEm0v=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div></div>
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<h4>#29 Acid Dad - Take It From The Dead</h4><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmiTvhpNpxV_2HnBlD7WJZAhps2ynXz7SrlX6lqYjpkN2flOST8IzQazLNEut0UsnQpZxypJu6OuA0Hwi32edRzu_K1rP5VGWdP_JoqlDx8aPFpuKUyDRH5yjzlfhMDOCO0i0Ws6pXTKPO5zW19v5jsZwOcDGNULegVc8bIahs9A_IsyD3zcin5h2h=s426" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="426" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmiTvhpNpxV_2HnBlD7WJZAhps2ynXz7SrlX6lqYjpkN2flOST8IzQazLNEut0UsnQpZxypJu6OuA0Hwi32edRzu_K1rP5VGWdP_JoqlDx8aPFpuKUyDRH5yjzlfhMDOCO0i0Ws6pXTKPO5zW19v5jsZwOcDGNULegVc8bIahs9A_IsyD3zcin5h2h=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<h4>#28 Lottie - Eve & Eve </h4><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgcN9Zvyn7iy7XDnJxZVU_eGEzRKffpNlCLYpBhyAeq7AWbjevTreM3xSbHqfz_i4wNGW7n0oA3XZxndxis_7j2SAqMTZFnH1oQguWnMdgzkBgak3lFT50gyn6mxmF4H8lZx2-cGx3ozaLWMNlp8Dy-JtmF5qnET420O-AdN0KhTpHkNKBwdLBOJCh3=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgcN9Zvyn7iy7XDnJxZVU_eGEzRKffpNlCLYpBhyAeq7AWbjevTreM3xSbHqfz_i4wNGW7n0oA3XZxndxis_7j2SAqMTZFnH1oQguWnMdgzkBgak3lFT50gyn6mxmF4H8lZx2-cGx3ozaLWMNlp8Dy-JtmF5qnET420O-AdN0KhTpHkNKBwdLBOJCh3=s320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h4>#27 Voldo - Regalia Nostalgia</h4><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjApVHCYVDJDG3oXkIh51r5UATq8OwFvm4uvOZbEtPOGFmRW-m5v7oqliGeIzSKEpxiLbpYG6qTP-9ZKZK8KCwazcczGOKHeQjEYSizoOo5G4V1aWvbOXWtCx8_SNZK3B8Jz_FGR2I88gsybZKAYUzj4B7AMu9vfuGNIpVqZJRpyhKlI0IYgEJ_DuFT=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjApVHCYVDJDG3oXkIh51r5UATq8OwFvm4uvOZbEtPOGFmRW-m5v7oqliGeIzSKEpxiLbpYG6qTP-9ZKZK8KCwazcczGOKHeQjEYSizoOo5G4V1aWvbOXWtCx8_SNZK3B8Jz_FGR2I88gsybZKAYUzj4B7AMu9vfuGNIpVqZJRpyhKlI0IYgEJ_DuFT=s320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h4>#26 Andrew Johnson - Dirteens </h4><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQYYID8W6th2JtOcvLkZsWl4MJMA_-8J9tzWUznkb6TLUsUItBWd3tKVMKckWP_BiJj110GGgyGhEYmscthWUaeK_5hckyZK2XSieDiLtk6mAgMyfmNbU-SUsOJTF_w7sM2Mq0d5GqC1MEVh8Hg5lq24ifrjUUgmNzAcIEs_0aebePMW1njkmMcZK1=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQYYID8W6th2JtOcvLkZsWl4MJMA_-8J9tzWUznkb6TLUsUItBWd3tKVMKckWP_BiJj110GGgyGhEYmscthWUaeK_5hckyZK2XSieDiLtk6mAgMyfmNbU-SUsOJTF_w7sM2Mq0d5GqC1MEVh8Hg5lq24ifrjUUgmNzAcIEs_0aebePMW1njkmMcZK1=s320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h4>#25 Feverjaw - All Bets Are Off </h4><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzNcUoElARqNDkr9JPaQualwZ1SbfefsZ4xRl3N9QJZhd_2rpgkYfwysxqtY7NRhSeYPHiA12V02sVSf-jIGahlhvU0Qvla_lk02528KEjlZ32-ROm5UzCR9w85CmmlGd-G0tqWqlDUtBV_aWtw8O8c7VfjFG-Wp4xtDorWFStFUzN8raC090ZZT4q=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1200" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzNcUoElARqNDkr9JPaQualwZ1SbfefsZ4xRl3N9QJZhd_2rpgkYfwysxqtY7NRhSeYPHiA12V02sVSf-jIGahlhvU0Qvla_lk02528KEjlZ32-ROm5UzCR9w85CmmlGd-G0tqWqlDUtBV_aWtw8O8c7VfjFG-Wp4xtDorWFStFUzN8raC090ZZT4q=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">#24 Lyon Tide - Beginnings Of Ends </h4><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEfHaBn_OeFe_ycsLe0KZtHWth0zI-AiyOCEjzOO4Ve2G6FbKdx36Ik82JoPsuYE3idHR1wtMAa_kRf2crtMO5zAzY80vixz3AS2rteGrsmIETVJkTSJUQqWRMhWSQEqA1sCc79Ae2yYkRuoUsUDe6PD3YtJO9UL7NCu7ZTkAJ33u7tlZ2KK9Q-zmN=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEfHaBn_OeFe_ycsLe0KZtHWth0zI-AiyOCEjzOO4Ve2G6FbKdx36Ik82JoPsuYE3idHR1wtMAa_kRf2crtMO5zAzY80vixz3AS2rteGrsmIETVJkTSJUQqWRMhWSQEqA1sCc79Ae2yYkRuoUsUDe6PD3YtJO9UL7NCu7ZTkAJ33u7tlZ2KK9Q-zmN=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#23 Jenny Colquitt - Something Beautiful</h4><div style="text-align: left;">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.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmrUBUBv0PPqGtftqQ36iz-UktABVx2zh0aBLCrjDtnAiFuJSAAY2lI_Kfib6BbkXwVexE3YzuJQxaWHQxotLmD3mjh-SzY0xgFCF1WJN2M-IHbKA_7cTn1LfTF6GdCE-jQC9LGpgBcCm0k5OZsESK-YrRau4eff7eyVlpq3BI8y1p64ZejmCMD3P3=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmrUBUBv0PPqGtftqQ36iz-UktABVx2zh0aBLCrjDtnAiFuJSAAY2lI_Kfib6BbkXwVexE3YzuJQxaWHQxotLmD3mjh-SzY0xgFCF1WJN2M-IHbKA_7cTn1LfTF6GdCE-jQC9LGpgBcCm0k5OZsESK-YrRau4eff7eyVlpq3BI8y1p64ZejmCMD3P3=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><h4>#22 The Mariners - Tales from the Great Central Line Volume One </h4><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvEkaWzS27UF_Ot4Q1dSGqQ2BNzIr_EAUm5mSAHujuAKEEv4YUK3U5xrWSYs7tqC8Sf32WarwOFWayUHzgrS4kXi5OqzC8Vw3rpBk4217EmQ-soS7jVr1hkb9vpjBPYnqT2icmPkR97YqJXrVB8YQZDgV2LbGeOKVF_pZwiRRIjuOQylmElqQXx030=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvEkaWzS27UF_Ot4Q1dSGqQ2BNzIr_EAUm5mSAHujuAKEEv4YUK3U5xrWSYs7tqC8Sf32WarwOFWayUHzgrS4kXi5OqzC8Vw3rpBk4217EmQ-soS7jVr1hkb9vpjBPYnqT2icmPkR97YqJXrVB8YQZDgV2LbGeOKVF_pZwiRRIjuOQylmElqQXx030=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">#21 The Reytons - The Kids Off The Estate</h4></div><div style="text-align: left;">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.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhL6TpxVRv5AgBAJQHGStgzB2GqnuV_xSYm3CgBRgb0GKLfoKaKvekap8ZdRcuu2m0Pbnt3C_3FjIAwl8rOo7WsGik0TXB1oYWQSvbxseblfhkVKcizRYPYRctkUXQKjvkDk4rFzbtl5NDHAOIFTg_xYXurSBsszie-0jPE_3K2Qqirr6erp1eDAN8v=s500" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhL6TpxVRv5AgBAJQHGStgzB2GqnuV_xSYm3CgBRgb0GKLfoKaKvekap8ZdRcuu2m0Pbnt3C_3FjIAwl8rOo7WsGik0TXB1oYWQSvbxseblfhkVKcizRYPYRctkUXQKjvkDk4rFzbtl5NDHAOIFTg_xYXurSBsszie-0jPE_3K2Qqirr6erp1eDAN8v=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><h4>#20 The Institutes - Colosseums </h4><div>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! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhIkhAKiG1yESmIjSF_7jl3Rp2yDEMkqBbZ79HHqmInFJedce_YGDkP05cD_v8d_qQtLm6lIP2gxPWeSsM17-Q8zFb-Ye0eWua5AQNggpdDB5Ozatwtw9wmPf8SHMymhVCIMjmTm6-PWR4GV-_xqRrqmIiTxHEYYSp9RQSLlUTgTlLBB-w8gxP6pK4Y=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhIkhAKiG1yESmIjSF_7jl3Rp2yDEMkqBbZ79HHqmInFJedce_YGDkP05cD_v8d_qQtLm6lIP2gxPWeSsM17-Q8zFb-Ye0eWua5AQNggpdDB5Ozatwtw9wmPf8SHMymhVCIMjmTm6-PWR4GV-_xqRrqmIiTxHEYYSp9RQSLlUTgTlLBB-w8gxP6pK4Y=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#19 Invisible Squirrel - Sonder </h4><div style="text-align: left;">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.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpZJPeXHfy3T1jVkZq9433Yt5ZVrUcitFmbbXxCw5vrqHeXvRSkoCKCr9cCFETglA0tDC4h1XSvXh3sxbbzflO8rddSm7xQQqTr-tn9YfOYgKRVWkHhoqkAMJc9kOcPWEYhOWo-jUAPiO97lIbth9yFosjQl-6-jXTRnWKz6TMqxWnlA2zj_Hc00Zo=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpZJPeXHfy3T1jVkZq9433Yt5ZVrUcitFmbbXxCw5vrqHeXvRSkoCKCr9cCFETglA0tDC4h1XSvXh3sxbbzflO8rddSm7xQQqTr-tn9YfOYgKRVWkHhoqkAMJc9kOcPWEYhOWo-jUAPiO97lIbth9yFosjQl-6-jXTRnWKz6TMqxWnlA2zj_Hc00Zo=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">#18 Joe Peacock - Before The Robots Told Us Where To Go</h4><div><div style="text-align: left;">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.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6GBYbhIbsuzhYM1xS_t885nBzKJb2scTUfALNqxoXr6yRTBbLRzR9_MLmXgFpiqxOEz1ip5Ty9D6KkGvZhoQ9qrVf1CJWkSKc5Wn4-C7AqCreqYtbYpj2rGUbqFZwLAhCdXnMkuxXoBzQs-tRI5eE5A0hWKvCuCO_KbJhgKs4Win8Odncz8s1Xeot=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6GBYbhIbsuzhYM1xS_t885nBzKJb2scTUfALNqxoXr6yRTBbLRzR9_MLmXgFpiqxOEz1ip5Ty9D6KkGvZhoQ9qrVf1CJWkSKc5Wn4-C7AqCreqYtbYpj2rGUbqFZwLAhCdXnMkuxXoBzQs-tRI5eE5A0hWKvCuCO_KbJhgKs4Win8Odncz8s1Xeot=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />
<h4>#17 Velvet Starlings - Technicolor Shakedown </h4><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7jx-QNxMvnNcmvmMCwGQXwWcBS-RdtM8lVeLY9BLPvEsfiZRUH665Glun8Iv1-abvhPeeqbElChkKnbYUy3qU1SqapTdqZgirW0rwfy_5vg5Q_6bML6T1e_-1NMeuUJ3IAFe-TI_SfMtVXU6b0hgQIs3LtY_xmiJwaFYPr5xJ1wtcnUMj26pdcftO=s585" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="585" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7jx-QNxMvnNcmvmMCwGQXwWcBS-RdtM8lVeLY9BLPvEsfiZRUH665Glun8Iv1-abvhPeeqbElChkKnbYUy3qU1SqapTdqZgirW0rwfy_5vg5Q_6bML6T1e_-1NMeuUJ3IAFe-TI_SfMtVXU6b0hgQIs3LtY_xmiJwaFYPr5xJ1wtcnUMj26pdcftO=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<h4>#16 Louis & The Shakes - How Badly Do You Want It? </h4><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">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.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: 400; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhU1n8NxNxn9lVIVMXvZLN_IwZx4fl2b8nhIX81Bxk_o6nzFebVhfMSVpZsvf9wO6EdrqVhdtwv0x2CCiEi0SGI07VHVC_EGvxi-BM_anWnlfQ5wGIByPaNWf0jfP9Q1uh5_kDuLeoNF5QfnxVuFyQy-myTI8Nn51lLhD67r406ZrNTOuV-N2BTys-=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhU1n8NxNxn9lVIVMXvZLN_IwZx4fl2b8nhIX81Bxk_o6nzFebVhfMSVpZsvf9wO6EdrqVhdtwv0x2CCiEi0SGI07VHVC_EGvxi-BM_anWnlfQ5wGIByPaNWf0jfP9Q1uh5_kDuLeoNF5QfnxVuFyQy-myTI8Nn51lLhD67r406ZrNTOuV-N2BTys-=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: 400; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br style="font-weight: 400;" /></div>
<h4>#15 The Poppermost - Hits To Spare </h4><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: 400; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCJiDF5C4tkDk7q8XEpXJY_oqCYoFvtEcJpQq-zUgPsEdVpz1eMGUa4G66RRvnkPBlq_xxjP8j8HWaUE7RIP8mCtf3HWTcUEWqgmNV2m3uQXXdhrRlFLUitLzhOP-tiY9haC4gDI1EZkoM5fV2HCLZUqjLVy4v6WHbxlYdy2JNfPVBqiaQKUOecqgk=s300" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCJiDF5C4tkDk7q8XEpXJY_oqCYoFvtEcJpQq-zUgPsEdVpz1eMGUa4G66RRvnkPBlq_xxjP8j8HWaUE7RIP8mCtf3HWTcUEWqgmNV2m3uQXXdhrRlFLUitLzhOP-tiY9haC4gDI1EZkoM5fV2HCLZUqjLVy4v6WHbxlYdy2JNfPVBqiaQKUOecqgk" width="300" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">#14 Sam Lambeth - Love and Exile </h4><div><div style="text-align: left;">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.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEge74onF9QV10kiJZTH0FROOuU8nTP57FV7yMFxzS3i0ypZODvJlOt2Jw2Wi23_1JyWTlL8ANBGPNwpptiGahC-S1DumXSbOFYFGwn08XJ1Dotw9n64Sow4OJCqWIQ1GSvEH31-UEFEzBuylHL9WuJTi9taHWu-XuA7-GYJN8sMu-eHrhAVEVJynnBT=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEge74onF9QV10kiJZTH0FROOuU8nTP57FV7yMFxzS3i0ypZODvJlOt2Jw2Wi23_1JyWTlL8ANBGPNwpptiGahC-S1DumXSbOFYFGwn08XJ1Dotw9n64Sow4OJCqWIQ1GSvEH31-UEFEzBuylHL9WuJTi9taHWu-XuA7-GYJN8sMu-eHrhAVEVJynnBT=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">#13 Jake Davey - What Did You Think Would Happen? </h4><div><div style="text-align: left;">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.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEht5LQ2b_HWpnOs4cg3vgebbkh0b8qRm_PmGYsC2vQ55k8cu4DM520RCcTJfItkWSCQxatU1P9HkJYPbWeSNFojrP6VvMqK2jbu0w9xmrIoe8O8T1xYsswPp7qVNw6yfS-cwPTGc8gfdIBaFoOIOMv_pHXiKHqptFMdcZHLrIKXc_PbqDpi218-bRzq=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEht5LQ2b_HWpnOs4cg3vgebbkh0b8qRm_PmGYsC2vQ55k8cu4DM520RCcTJfItkWSCQxatU1P9HkJYPbWeSNFojrP6VvMqK2jbu0w9xmrIoe8O8T1xYsswPp7qVNw6yfS-cwPTGc8gfdIBaFoOIOMv_pHXiKHqptFMdcZHLrIKXc_PbqDpi218-bRzq=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4>#12 Novelty Island - How Are You Coping With This Century?</h4></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">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.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg6FcFyoVHiYcwsSHt3Vz73jyFgizHh0hMkxtmRsDVprCDQm1KlUVg0xsZFe9t8cnXEyGBbOjp7oswZKSYEgKz2EWceQToB3GdE9hkcukFf1_Z4Vk7yLSrrg2FvxJ9jSa2gD7TEMJIrGy1p8vwqTUL_FXwgcc8OSMX8GmIRHOD8HSHWKOr_o3cBatbr=s600" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg6FcFyoVHiYcwsSHt3Vz73jyFgizHh0hMkxtmRsDVprCDQm1KlUVg0xsZFe9t8cnXEyGBbOjp7oswZKSYEgKz2EWceQToB3GdE9hkcukFf1_Z4Vk7yLSrrg2FvxJ9jSa2gD7TEMJIrGy1p8vwqTUL_FXwgcc8OSMX8GmIRHOD8HSHWKOr_o3cBatbr=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">#11 Matt McManamon - Scally Folk </h4></div><p>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. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj-HTimai07TIGmu0qQct07OZvhJj6bee2XW1jmqrriAti4b_qRsLX-CcjN-jCaDbvWsDcA0xXCOVi4T7YAaiv0UwfPHM8GsmhjKruenDz0pGPyNcgdAXuWUa2ItqgszmuwHxa_aIbUW5yUxo5vv6eW412tzIirB8qvPTVy9oUAtQcJ-Y1XYhXBVDzn=s225" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj-HTimai07TIGmu0qQct07OZvhJj6bee2XW1jmqrriAti4b_qRsLX-CcjN-jCaDbvWsDcA0xXCOVi4T7YAaiv0UwfPHM8GsmhjKruenDz0pGPyNcgdAXuWUa2ItqgszmuwHxa_aIbUW5yUxo5vv6eW412tzIirB8qvPTVy9oUAtQcJ-Y1XYhXBVDzn=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#10 Joe Adhemar - Exhistential Dreadlocks </h4><p>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. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOP2c5sONk3DdManlGUZNuZkyLXdX-XTD-J53VCZ0cTRIGr3IwFv5m95r6vHsLgAOD5K1ZtyOSHOWf3Do4yxI6mum04aiEV544R_T6NtU3rsRasVXK0ic7_H6qNR8IoVhu4-kzwIBhMGuWbVwzUgIQh_T8TP0PifT5mN9hdG423m00O2RA4C7L5G1n=s2500" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2500" data-original-width="2500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOP2c5sONk3DdManlGUZNuZkyLXdX-XTD-J53VCZ0cTRIGr3IwFv5m95r6vHsLgAOD5K1ZtyOSHOWf3Do4yxI6mum04aiEV544R_T6NtU3rsRasVXK0ic7_H6qNR8IoVhu4-kzwIBhMGuWbVwzUgIQh_T8TP0PifT5mN9hdG423m00O2RA4C7L5G1n=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />
<h4>#9 Starflyer 59 - Vanity</h4><div><span style="font-weight: normal;">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.</span></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4TGd-mm4mfoNrIIFIejMr4xgHJ4EBWpWi-DYycjpPDEEMdMqRd0m99bWDerFL3avjfZNbbciUvhplcPbxcMGb-io3Vgx3uK-5cDbQqvtM5pmijMA1BRRmohbHYr6bY2bgIzcsihE7eiI2IMPYyGVCbAN1dSw-7RnNpOOQ7YHij53aQQqZ_VohnJWD=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4TGd-mm4mfoNrIIFIejMr4xgHJ4EBWpWi-DYycjpPDEEMdMqRd0m99bWDerFL3avjfZNbbciUvhplcPbxcMGb-io3Vgx3uK-5cDbQqvtM5pmijMA1BRRmohbHYr6bY2bgIzcsihE7eiI2IMPYyGVCbAN1dSw-7RnNpOOQ7YHij53aQQqZ_VohnJWD=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br style="font-weight: 400;" /></div>
<h4>#8 Afflecks Palace - What Do You Mean It’s Not Raining? </h4><p>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.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_plUag5edfBqUCo0u5plj5VFKi0mpPlpajE4A_ZLi_iMYQ_VRKIu-fkIspJbyeXHOM6N2FOUECt3lPRr7ZB3g66ZU6HSNgRdwIJc1lMJalQihOUW0wrXMXBe39mMv0uJAjoTrYISmxXR-LHJjsEh0bYcVqZSXJGciqmf09PZ6Cu8GtpRf5a6CAwpI=s662" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="658" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_plUag5edfBqUCo0u5plj5VFKi0mpPlpajE4A_ZLi_iMYQ_VRKIu-fkIspJbyeXHOM6N2FOUECt3lPRr7ZB3g66ZU6HSNgRdwIJc1lMJalQihOUW0wrXMXBe39mMv0uJAjoTrYISmxXR-LHJjsEh0bYcVqZSXJGciqmf09PZ6Cu8GtpRf5a6CAwpI=s320" width="318" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#7 Amends - Tales of Love, Loss and Outlaws </h4><p>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.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6Mbcp9wVUGIXJBirYNeurWGMogpLdaDKsGxtzNPbeaZZR3jzdnkoGeIBnYo-WTbZ7OPn7xHImiWT7CIaoybToiYu7I3yPFdrjUjRcuMADVKmUFp2y4GtT58P4me2GlCYK51wgv5svLCYHGXe2fnMf79J8npZZ45e69v-fXwzYncFRcmFliZS-BcH2=s225" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6Mbcp9wVUGIXJBirYNeurWGMogpLdaDKsGxtzNPbeaZZR3jzdnkoGeIBnYo-WTbZ7OPn7xHImiWT7CIaoybToiYu7I3yPFdrjUjRcuMADVKmUFp2y4GtT58P4me2GlCYK51wgv5svLCYHGXe2fnMf79J8npZZ45e69v-fXwzYncFRcmFliZS-BcH2=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4>#6 Sky Diving Penguins - Sky Diving Penguins</h4><p>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. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhTEbdhjI0ioTf6pESqkbZ7z5u7DPT97rAvwW4OwvfZqJ_-4-7d0NAAD7UdGH5zKg-x_aNND8u_F1-Am31lEbXkKSqejKuK6KarurToy2UH80dTSbcJ68hTvYeKZjfrGS3IclDSkRYJdzxF0aObmC2xfNbcv9zQl6lfJvFM__rCPnzEgjV7M4F_q-U=s1400" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhTEbdhjI0ioTf6pESqkbZ7z5u7DPT97rAvwW4OwvfZqJ_-4-7d0NAAD7UdGH5zKg-x_aNND8u_F1-Am31lEbXkKSqejKuK6KarurToy2UH80dTSbcJ68hTvYeKZjfrGS3IclDSkRYJdzxF0aObmC2xfNbcv9zQl6lfJvFM__rCPnzEgjV7M4F_q-U=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#5 The Lathums - How Beautiful Life Can Be </h4><p>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.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQzRt1U42_CAYGLSNAixSjDP80jYTPvNqJm0KE25WKU8-g-kMmx77rdQBiHmVWhE6ZRyzc_0cvVR0UUwALSkmLiR8nsmyJ8lmqxgmCQ9WmsG8y-R5CcejBmmzVn-RDk09Sewuc_Ys3k8j6UXxkhd5BXJApAT-fMfALkYO7LVpe4Dnx6aqC-hJ_swxQ=s600" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQzRt1U42_CAYGLSNAixSjDP80jYTPvNqJm0KE25WKU8-g-kMmx77rdQBiHmVWhE6ZRyzc_0cvVR0UUwALSkmLiR8nsmyJ8lmqxgmCQ9WmsG8y-R5CcejBmmzVn-RDk09Sewuc_Ys3k8j6UXxkhd5BXJApAT-fMfALkYO7LVpe4Dnx6aqC-hJ_swxQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#4 Moonlight Parade - What If </h4><p>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).</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4oSwxfGV-CYRpM-FCqYe3awn9zLX5CEZgqRXsX18Gr42XWQ2hRMzorx8a9y76fQgi6wqjiErjhB84vJPfDhsp09ZP5s5kZwu9dwsE7CYd7kj1oL0lHxpElPTERa2VWzwu434MTUlJsUo7grg_ihaKozYQfLPcZZhLpLiPQm38kmzT0ZcDnBFE6HBK=s225" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4oSwxfGV-CYRpM-FCqYe3awn9zLX5CEZgqRXsX18Gr42XWQ2hRMzorx8a9y76fQgi6wqjiErjhB84vJPfDhsp09ZP5s5kZwu9dwsE7CYd7kj1oL0lHxpElPTERa2VWzwu434MTUlJsUo7grg_ihaKozYQfLPcZZhLpLiPQm38kmzT0ZcDnBFE6HBK=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4>#3 Apollo Junction - All In </h4><p>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.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimKKMtYgS8BwxPQKWz6Tro3PW0hIDQypEJoUwx8duglWYi8YjlOMVC4RndatO1RFaBWJFm2Pp9i-ARuJQLQpSMtnX8MrpsdWWnOjZTcDRADGQ3AOwMolc3u_rlFlVLup08sqBcYmDEztdyBAvoo643QTs_xya1AwtsqDWKjho-KOHuySyXHf0ict4L=s300" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="269" data-original-width="300" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimKKMtYgS8BwxPQKWz6Tro3PW0hIDQypEJoUwx8duglWYi8YjlOMVC4RndatO1RFaBWJFm2Pp9i-ARuJQLQpSMtnX8MrpsdWWnOjZTcDRADGQ3AOwMolc3u_rlFlVLup08sqBcYmDEztdyBAvoo643QTs_xya1AwtsqDWKjho-KOHuySyXHf0ict4L" width="300" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4>#2 The Shop Window - The State of Being Human </h4><p>I reviewed this album in full on my blog here<b> </b><a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2021/05/album-review-shop-window.html" style="text-align: justify;">The State Of Being Human Album Review</a>. 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.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYgd_YKpq5Xf5kqthbGhi_E_BJlD1_I2NeIpU0UDbimY3iIy-dnf7ijYMJ3QGX_UB0iJJu2XqCwv3JUKzKjWhvQd_o3jnHSb7cApIyKlKMb2RsMrO4l2KF-2dYltxr4l4_UVgf7onBDlnLxdGSJfvpMbjjztNQXwBxkbS3WT-9xUo0ohswOUrr1bFl=s2962" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2958" data-original-width="2962" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYgd_YKpq5Xf5kqthbGhi_E_BJlD1_I2NeIpU0UDbimY3iIy-dnf7ijYMJ3QGX_UB0iJJu2XqCwv3JUKzKjWhvQd_o3jnHSb7cApIyKlKMb2RsMrO4l2KF-2dYltxr4l4_UVgf7onBDlnLxdGSJfvpMbjjztNQXwBxkbS3WT-9xUo0ohswOUrr1bFl=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">#1 The John Michie Collective - High Vibrations</h4><p>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.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEheAP3mraWYOWRx7b1rJkPLRr7Wq8sFoYajNmZegXG54CGdVgcq5cjXCILn0UcqqO9ZJf3mlhBYMmnBhyHUccS35s73j12_rL7L98XEwNWcksC8D2Vg4pN-WyDyneeHXUK6KsbXs31Hn34voj2lHezZrbMnlyRZEMbhRmN7TxMEVQMZjp3wBsSVbkOc=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEheAP3mraWYOWRx7b1rJkPLRr7Wq8sFoYajNmZegXG54CGdVgcq5cjXCILn0UcqqO9ZJf3mlhBYMmnBhyHUccS35s73j12_rL7L98XEwNWcksC8D2Vg4pN-WyDyneeHXUK6KsbXs31Hn34voj2lHezZrbMnlyRZEMbhRmN7TxMEVQMZjp3wBsSVbkOc=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Albums to get excited about in 2022 </h4><p>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. </p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com1Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-60.262546136178841 80.705059 -3.6420784638211536 151.017559tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-6994908016305145572021-10-01T00:11:00.008+08:002021-10-01T00:26:29.809+08:00Mixtape Oct 21<p> 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?</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6R8y6aGecakAYIRm8ncufY?si=571860555d9c47c8">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Oct 21 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div>
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<p>1) Devil’s Advocate by Louis and the Shakes</p><p>“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. <a href="https://www.louisandtheshakes.com/">www.louisandtheshakes.com</a></p>
<p>2) A Broken Bond by Joe Adhemar</p><p>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. <a href="https://joeadhemar.bandcamp.com/"> Joe Adhemar's Bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>3) Silver Morning by A Ritual Sea</p><p>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 href="https://aritualsea.bandcamp.com/album/a-ritual-sea"> A Ritual Sea's Bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>4) Burn by Oh! Paulo </p><p>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. <a href="https://ohpaulo.bandcamp.com/"> Oh! Paulo's Bandcamp page</a> </p>
<p>5) Greaseballs to Glitter by Baabes</p><p>Sleazy glam punk from Boston who sound like a modern version of the New York Dolls. <a href="https://baabes.bandcamp.com/"> Baabes' Bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>6) Parallel Love Affair by Big Image</p><p>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.</p>
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<p>7) I Won’t Lie by The Lathums </p><p>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. </p>
<p>8) I Don’t Want, I Don’t Care by Sky Diving Penguins </p><p>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. <a href="https://skydivingpenguins.com/biography">https://skydivingpenguins.com/biography</a> </p><p>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. <a href="https://skydivingpenguins.bandcamp.com/"> Sky Diving Penguins' Bandcamp page</a></p>
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<p>9) Wookie by Gomrund</p><p>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! <a href="https://gomrund.bandcamp.com/"> Gomrund's Bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>10) Colors on the Canvas by Velvet Starlings </p><p>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. <a href="https://velvetstarlings.bandcamp.com/"> Velvet Starlings' Bandcamp page</a></p>
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<p>11) Bleak Midwinter by The Pretty Petty Thieves </p><p>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!</p>
<p>12) Shoot Me Down by Perry Manning </p><p>“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.</p>
<p>13) This Bird by Novelty Island</p><p>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. <a href="https://noveltyisland.bandcamp.com/"> Novelty Island's Bandcamp page</a> </p>
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<p>14) Danger Man by Dojo Rise</p><p>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. <a href="https://dojorise.bandcamp.com/"> Dojo Rise's Bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>15) Tunnel Vision by Leigh Thomas </p><p>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. <a href="https://leighthomas.bandcamp.com/"> Leigh Thomas Bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>16) Summertime Sadness by The Empty Mirrors </p><p>The Empty Mirrors are more prolific than rabbits. It’s yet another gorgeous song. <a href="https://theemptymirrors.bandcamp.com/"> The Empty Mirrors Bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>17) Animals by Cat Dowling</p><p>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. <a href="https://catdowling.bandcamp.com/"> Cat Dowling's Bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>18) Need The Needle by Graeme The King of Bispham</p><p>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.</p>
<p>19) Rat Race (Parker Rework) by Alright </p><p>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. </p>
<p>20) What You Heard by The Deepshakerz and Rowetta </p><p>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!</p><p><br /></p><p>You Need More Indie Music???</p><div>The next round of the #Indie100Cup will be 10am (UK) Sat 2nd October on InYourEarsMusic.com </div><div> </div><div>If you're still seeking more new music then I suggest you dive into <u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/50QsPU8tdNuLHvqpgQR9nj?si=821802e3dceb4dcb">Old Indie Kid's 2021 Playlist </a></u> </div><div>which has over 1500 fresh songs from 2021.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally if you want podcasts of my radio shows - find them here. <u style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0wAOTPMkxnUg7WeKcLy0f5?si=e30ca205e6904651">My Radio Show Podcasts </a></u></div><div><br /></div><div>And don’t forget Bandcamp Friday!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-60.262546136178841 80.705059 -3.6420784638211536 151.017559tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-66327804751886719062021-09-10T01:26:00.022+08:002021-09-10T01:36:32.615+08:00Mixtape Sept 21<p>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.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6TNQKUlBeGBFhabHciwrkC?si=4a3681cd120b42c2">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Sept 21 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wGLH7C4IocA/YTo91p7ugoI/AAAAAAAAL-4/JJxatmuskuYjfM44jIld77YNUSBegFAPACNcBGAsYHQ/s1080/111.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="856" data-original-width="1080" height="318" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wGLH7C4IocA/YTo91p7ugoI/AAAAAAAAL-4/JJxatmuskuYjfM44jIld77YNUSBegFAPACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h318/111.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Elizabeth Quay (a.k.a. Betty's Jetty) Perth, Western Australia</div><p><br /></p><p>1) Sleep by Ddouble Impactt & John Your Mate</p><p>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.</p><p>2) I Worry About My Health and Caffeine Intake by Lossline </p><p>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.</p><p>3) Friends in High Places by Narcissus featuring Becki Fishwick </p><p>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! </p>
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<br /><p>4) Morphine Dream by The Empty Mirrors and Robert Severin</p><p>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! </p>
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<br /><p>5) Lemon Tree by Enola Fall</p><p>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. </p><p>6) Hope You Are Well by Adult Prom</p><p>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. </p><p>7) Waiting for My Life to Start Again by David Nyro</p><p>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. </p><p>8) Down The Line by Tom Bright </p><p>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.</p>
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<p>9) The Confidence of Ignorance by Blokeacola </p><p>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.</p>
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<p>10) Is Not Everything Morbid by Joe Peacock </p><p>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 </p><p>11) Firebug by 3 Little Wolves</p><p>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.</p><p>12) Hurricane by Jet City Sports Club</p><p>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.</p><p>13) Bullet 4 You by Louis and the Shakes</p><p>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. </p><p>14) Regret You by Revivalry</p><p>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. </p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wQ2wniJ-EwM" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><p>15) Like A Rolling Stone by Royal Chant</p><p>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. </p><p>16) Better Days by The Crooks </p><p>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</p><p>17) Is It Worth It Anymore? by High Tropics</p><p>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.</p><p>18) Wayfaring Stranger by Anthony McElwee</p><p>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. </p><p>19) The Overload by Yard Act </p><p>Leeds electro rockers return with another fun filled romp filled with unpleasant characters and dark humour that is gaining them a significant following. </p><p>20) Heard It On The Radio by Loops & Loops</p><p>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. </p><p>Right I’ve got to finish this blog as I won't be in a fit state tomorrow. </p><p>Have a great weekend. Cheers Danny</p><p><br /></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com2Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-60.262546136178841 80.705059 -3.6420784638211536 151.017559tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-29995523264222102422021-08-03T21:24:00.000+08:002021-08-03T21:24:52.256+08:00Mixtape August 2021<p> 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. </p><div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3z7F5Y1Ty3tGxMswlVMyYq?si=f29e77c202d54ca3">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape August 2021 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4WjPDWKPNe8/YQk7e8BdlyI/AAAAAAAAL9k/NLHYdzn_Gsgt7nKd3g9Y12y-5HxvfX7zgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1275/4617404A-AC32-405C-9AA7-7CFD37EF75CC.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="1275" height="208" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4WjPDWKPNe8/YQk7e8BdlyI/AAAAAAAAL9k/NLHYdzn_Gsgt7nKd3g9Y12y-5HxvfX7zgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/4617404A-AC32-405C-9AA7-7CFD37EF75CC.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Alten-8 Rave and Mask pioneers (not featured this month)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p>1) One Way Ticket by Gorstey Lee Street Choir</p><p>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. <a href="https://500broadcast.bandcamp.com/">The Gorstey Lea Street Choir bandcamp page</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2) Pull by Sean Buckley featuring Chris James Willows </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">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! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3) Week After Week After Week by Rhys E</div><p>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. </p><p>4) Run It Down by Invisible Squirrel </p><p>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. </p><p>
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</p><p>5) Mother Mania by ELYXIR & Neilio</p><p>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. <a href="https://elxyirmusicau.bandcamp.com/releases">Elyxir's bandcamp page</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6) A Day In The Dam by The Shed Project</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">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.</div><div>
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<p>9) Lights Out by Silver Haar</p><p>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. <a href="https://silverhaar.bandcamp.com/releases">Silver Haar's bandcamp page</a> . </p><p>
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</p><p>10) Mirror Mirror by Dictator</p><p>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? </p><p>11) Freedom Belongs To Him by Megan Black</p><p>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! <a href="https://meganblack.bandcamp.com">Megan Black's bandcamp page</a></p><p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cpHGvgvP5_Q" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </p><p> 12) Fading (Swim Deep) by Ava Carlyle</p><p>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.</p><p>13) Sun It Shines by Oh! Paulo </p><p>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! <a href="https://ohpaulo.bandcamp.com">Oh! Paulo's bandcamp page</a></p><div>14) Games by Emilia Quinn ft FINOLA </div><p>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. <a href="https://emiliaquinnmusic.bandcamp.com/">Emilia Quinn's bandcamp page</a></p><div>15) State Of Mind by Marseille</div><div><br /></div><div>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.
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</div><div><br /></div><div>16) You Are My Drug, I Am Yours by The Tom Biddle Band</div><p>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. <a href="https://tombiddle.bandcamp.com/">The Tom Biddle Band's bandcamp page</a></p><p>17) That Summer by Kelly Cresswell & Colin Guthrie <br /></p><p>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! <a href="https://kellycresswell.bandcamp.com/">Kelly Cresswell's bandcamp page</a></p><p>18) Free of This Disease by Jai Agnish</p><p>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. <a href="https://jaiagnish.bandcamp.com/">Jai Agnish's bandcamp page</a></p><div>19) Weather Vane by Emperor of Ice Cream</div><div><br /></div><div>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. <a href="https://emperoroficecream.bandcamp.com/">Emperor of Ice Cream's bandcamp page</a></div><div><br /></div><div>20) We The People by Jonny Ash</div><div><br /></div><div>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… <a href="https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/jonnyash/we-are-the-people-4">https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/jonnyash/we-are-the-people-4</a> </div><div>Catch Jonny Ash in September in the North of England on their joint tour with The Perps. </div><div><br /></div>
<div>In Other news...</div><div><br /></div>
<div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're still seeking more new music then I suggest you dive into <u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/50QsPU8tdNuLHvqpgQR9nj?si=821802e3dceb4dcb">Old Indie Kid's 2021 Playlist </a></u> </div><div>which has over 1000 fresh songs from 2021.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally if you want podcasts of my radio shows - find them here. <u style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0wAOTPMkxnUg7WeKcLy0f5?si=e30ca205e6904651">My Radio Show Podcasts </a></u></div><div><br /></div><div>And don’t forget Bandcamp Friday!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth-31.94899 115.9218854-32.007248337079183 115.85322084921874 -31.890731662920814 115.99054995078124tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-17268295355658596182021-07-01T08:03:00.098+08:002021-07-01T09:24:05.584+08:00Old Indie Kid's Mixtape July 2021<p> </p><p>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. </p><div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0juPPcnLjs0A3jKf8HU2RV?si=98d703ec668a48d5">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape July 2021 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cCC6huTwOwA/YNxkJtDXJnI/AAAAAAAAL8U/bn-13rUsox0u19U8r-wWR9sp1-t04eRggCNcBGAsYHQ/s950/zzzperth.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="950" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cCC6huTwOwA/YNxkJtDXJnI/AAAAAAAAL8U/bn-13rUsox0u19U8r-wWR9sp1-t04eRggCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h200/zzzperth.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>1) Gotta Hold On Me by Mondo Trasho</p><p>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”. <a href="https://mondotrashomusic.bandcamp.com/">Mondo Trasho's bandcamp page</a> </p><p> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VHZvNFwKCU8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2) Hold You Back by Quivers</div><p>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 <a href="https://quiversss.bandcamp.com/">Quivers bandcamp page</a>.</p><p>3) Sparks by Jay Tennant </p><p>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. <a href="https://jaytennant1.bandcamp.com/music">Jay Tennant's bandcamp page</a>
</p><p>4) Droid by Invisible Squirrel </p><p>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. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAgTIygZdyc&ab_channel=InvisibleSquirrel">Just Who Is The Invisible Squirrel? </a> </p><p>5) Dirty Town by Jenny Colquitt</p><p>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. <a href="https://jennycolquitt.bandcamp.com/">Jenny Colquitt's bandcamp page</a>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6) Pride or Shame by Paul Nixon</div><div><br /></div><div>The latest in a long series of indie anthems from PN. </div><div>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. <a href="https://paulnixon.bandcamp.com/">Paul Nixon's bandcamp page</a>
</div><p>7) Save Me by Jen Dixon</p><p>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. <a href="https://jendixon.bandcamp.com/">Jen Dixon's bandcamp page</a></p><p>8) Let Me In by Senses</p><p>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…
<a href="https://sensescoventry.bandcamp.com/">Senses bandcamp page</a></p>
<p>9) Broken Window by Lewca</p><p>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 <a href="https://lewca.bandcamp.com/">Lewca's bandcamp page</a> .</p><p><br /></p>
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<p>10) Because You Hate To Care About by A Ritual Sea</p><p>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 href="https://aritualsea.bandcamp.com/">A Ritual Sea's bandcamp page</a></p><p>11) Middle Something by Tijuana Cartel </p><p>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. <a href="https://tijuanacartel.bandcamp.com/">Tijuana Cartel's bandcamp page</a> </p><p>12) Old Days by Hiaground </p><p>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. </p><p>13) Creatures of the Night by The Stone Apes</p><div>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! </div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I6nInwXCxnM" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">"Great White Buffalo!"</div><div><br /></div><p> 14) Hanging Around by Moonlight Parade</p><p>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. <a href="https://moonlightparade.bandcamp.com/">Moonlight Parade's bandcamp page</a>
</p><div>15) Perfume by Andy Bell</div><p>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. <a href="https://andybell.bandcamp.com/">Andy Bell's bandcamp page</a>
</p><p>16) Stephanie Said by Subterfuge </p><p>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. <a href="https://subterfuge91.bandcamp.com/">Subterfuge's bandcamp page</a>
</p><p>17) Rose Pink Cadillac by Dope Lemon</p><p>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.</p>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><p>18) The Sun Hasn’t Left by Modest Mouse</p><p>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. </p><div>19) Moto by King Brown </div><div><br /></div><div>Imagine if the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club opened a Western Australian Chapter…</div><div>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.</div><p>20) No Good by The Heavy North</p><p>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! <a href="https://theheavynorth.bandcamp.com/">The Heavy North's bandcamp page</a>
</p><div><br /></div><div>In Other news...</div><div><br /></div>
<div>If you missed the most glamorous night of the indie calendar you can catch up here on YouTube with the <u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQDg7TtuZKY&t=61s&ab_channel=InYourEarsMusic">In Your Ears 2021 Radar Awards Show</a></u></div><div><br /></div><div>If you're seeking even more new music then I suggest you dive into <u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/50QsPU8tdNuLHvqpgQR9nj?si=821802e3dceb4dcb">Old Indie Kid's 2021 Playlist </a></u> </div><div>which has over 900 fresh songs at the halfway point of the year.</div><div><br /></div><div>And finally if you want to listen to podcasts of my radio shows you can find them here. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0wAOTPMkxnUg7WeKcLy0f5?si=e30ca205e6904651">My Radio Show Podcasts </a></u></div>
<p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-60.262546136178841 80.705059 -3.6420784638211536 151.017559tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-29475336568139150882021-06-20T22:07:00.046+08:002021-06-21T08:38:50.527+08:00Mixtape June 2021Welcome 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.<div><br /></div><div>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…<a href="https://oldindiekid.blogspot.com/2021/05/album-review-shop-window.html" style="text-align: justify;">The State Of Being Human Album Review</a><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><div><br /></div><div>Enough cross-promotion, time for 20 reviews and recommendations in the continuing saga that is my new music blog. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6Ex42wasZlYZl4D64LaxoU?si=878c76f631554594">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape June 2021 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div>
<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bJjwVTQAyJQ/YM9KC_BRFrI/AAAAAAAAL7s/fg8_Psot22s2qMhE3_RnD92FYzhM-QVLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1334/4DCD42A9-57B8-412E-B039-0A626D846E9F.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bJjwVTQAyJQ/YM9KC_BRFrI/AAAAAAAAL7s/fg8_Psot22s2qMhE3_RnD92FYzhM-QVLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/4DCD42A9-57B8-412E-B039-0A626D846E9F.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>1) Tangerine Dream by Alright<br />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.<div><br />2) Emily by Lossline</div><div>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. <br /><br />3) 84 by Bad Money</div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sb3TyeNoXKE" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>4) For My Friends by Super 8 </div><div>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. </div><div>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. <a href="https://trip8.bandcamp.com/" style="text-align: justify;">Super 8's Bandcamp Page</a>
<br /><br />5) Golden by George Rowlands <div>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. </div><div><br /></div><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/6Ex42wasZlYZl4D64LaxoU" width="100%"></iframe>
<div><br />6) Trauma and Grace by Feverjaw</div><div>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. <a href="https://feverjaw.bandcamp.com/album/all-bets-are-off">https://feverjaw.bandcamp.com/album/all-bets-are-off</a><br /><br />7) No Place to Hide by Shocks</div><div>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! <br /><br />8) Manchester, You’re My Heaven by Ollie Winder</div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div>9) Slow and Steady by Blokeacola </div><div>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.
<a href="https://blokeacola.bandcamp.com/" style="text-align: justify;">Blokeacola's Bandcamp Page</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>
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</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div>10) It’s Been Heaven Knowing You by Amends</div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div>11) Hang Glider (Bubby Style) by Lewca ft The Geezer Choir. </div><div>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
<a href="https://lewca.bandcamp.com/" style="text-align: justify;">Lewca's Bandcamp Page</a> 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. </div><div><br /></div>
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<div><br /></div><div><div><br />12) Don’t Be A Fool by Lonely Lost Boy is the debut single from Dundee based artist Gordon Hennessy.</div><div>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.</div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div>13) Patriot Song by Art Block</div><div>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. </div><div><a href="https://artblock.bandcamp.com/" style="text-align: justify;">Art Block's Bandcamp Page</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CNhH14le7p8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div>14) Beautiful Day by The John Mitchie Collective </div><div>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. </div>
<a href="https://thejmc7.bandcamp.com/" style="text-align: justify;">The John Michie Collective Bandcamp Page</a>
<div><br /></div><div>15) Blu by Pastel </div><div>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! </div><div><br />16) Dreams, Schemes and Young Teams by Shambolics</div><div>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. <br /><br />17) Meet Me By The River by Matt McManamon</div><div>A song dreaming of a reunion and second chances with a rendez-vous by the River Mersey. Taken from the new album Scally Folk <a href="https://mattmcmanamon.bandcamp.com/album/scally-folk">https://mattmcmanamon.bandcamp.com/album/scally-folk</a><br /><br />18) The Madhouse by Crimson Bloom</div><div>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. <a href="https://crimsonbloom.bandcamp.com/album/the-madhouse-ep-pre-order"> Buy it on the Crimson Bloom Bandcamp Page. </a>
<br /><br />19) Find Another Way by Shark Star</div><div>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.</div><div><br />20) The Scenic Route by Sam Lambeth </div><div>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.</div><div>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 <a href="https://samlambethmusic.bandcamp.com/album/sam-lambeth-the-endangered-species" style="text-align: justify;">Sam Lambeth's Bandcamp Page</a>
</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll be back with another blog next month but tune in to my Chart Show on InYourEarsMusic.com </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5l2LjAggU90/YM7jvVWcfnI/AAAAAAAAL7c/DfrsMNBsczErnfJALwfdHM-mUz-g_LvBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1921/FE0A6A49-2473-4162-8608-34135000882C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1921" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5l2LjAggU90/YM7jvVWcfnI/AAAAAAAAL7c/DfrsMNBsczErnfJALwfdHM-mUz-g_LvBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/FE0A6A49-2473-4162-8608-34135000882C.jpeg" /></a></div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-60.262546136178841 80.705059 -3.6420784638211536 151.017559tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-71702972624202019112021-06-04T13:35:00.003+08:002021-06-04T13:36:23.966+08:00The Shop Window<h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>Album Review</b></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>The State of Being Human</b></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>The Shop Window</b></h2><p style="text-align: center;">reviewed by Old Indie Kid </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aHqrElEsuRA/YLSqbBrA8BI/AAAAAAAAL6U/TtkEdmpjlSoHNc176YvLiWuSxMnZXfOTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/594CB932-53A2-46C3-8C51-FD0D1EBCAA2C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aHqrElEsuRA/YLSqbBrA8BI/AAAAAAAAL6U/TtkEdmpjlSoHNc176YvLiWuSxMnZXfOTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/594CB932-53A2-46C3-8C51-FD0D1EBCAA2C.jpeg" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Release date: 25th June 2021 on Vinyl and CD and a later release date on digital platforms. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Pre-order a physical copy today before they sell out</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://theshopwindow.bandcamp.com/music">https://theshopwindow.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.spinoutproductions.com/shop/">https://www.spinoutproductions.com/shop/</a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The State of Being Human is the debut album from Maidstone’s The Shop Window. As a supporter of the band, and with Maidstone on my birth certificate, I’ve been entrusted with early access to the album. Whilst reviewing an album in depth means you play each track multiple times, I’m pleased to report that the more I play it, the more I like it, and I’ve been spinning The State of Being Human like a Roberto Carlos free kick. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">The origins of the The Shop Wiindow can be traced back to 1990s band Westpier in which Carl Mann and Simon ‘Syd’ Oxlee once plied their trade. They were label mates and still friends with Sleeper. After Westpier folded, Carl became an occasional Sleeperbloke and still plays with Sleeper from time to time. Carl spent many years overseas and lived in New Zealand for many years. He played guitar on some of Kylie’s tours and even penned a Kylie b-side in 2000.</span></div><p>When Carl returned to Kent a few years ago he started a band with friends Phil Elphee on drums and Martin Corder on bass guitars and backing vocals. They crafted some great songs and the group’s lineup was completed when Syd joined them on vocals and keys. The Shop Window began releasing music in December 2019 with the free download of Christmas single Signpost On their Bandcamp site. During the lockdown or what some clever wit recently dubbed, the Bandemic, The Shop Window tested the water and raised their profile in the new music scene with a string of well received singles and issued their debut 7”vinyl on DIY outfit Spinout Nuggets.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KS4lNtgqjqw/YLSqtXn2TOI/AAAAAAAAL6c/e2dspBTH_bsMYnLnME8L4ysxhCzeF1QCACNcBGAsYHQ/s1136/8B235076-B484-46E3-AE47-22EB58E5C894.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1136" height="199" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KS4lNtgqjqw/YLSqtXn2TOI/AAAAAAAAL6c/e2dspBTH_bsMYnLnME8L4ysxhCzeF1QCACNcBGAsYHQ/w200-h199/8B235076-B484-46E3-AE47-22EB58E5C894.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;">So that’s their potted history and now, after three decades, the moment has finally arrived when they release an album. I was excited for this release so I can only imagine how the band are feeling. Perhaps they are dreading the critical reviews from the darkest corners of the internet? Fear not my Maidstonian Brethren, I have nothing but praise for the wonderful State of Being Human album. I haven’t reviewed a full album in detail before so this is my debut album review of The Shop Window’s debut album. So let’s dive straight in to the first slice of delicious Jangle Cake.</p><p>Mannequin Lies</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Shop Window is the face you put on to the world whilst, your feelings are hidden beneath. This was their first real single in April 2020. The band are tight and and intricate jangling guitars and harmonies place this sonically in the late 80s early 90s period. For someone who enjoyed the music of that period it will evoke nostalgia and there are reference points to other great bands that emerge from many of these songs. Ultimately it sounds like The Shop Window to me as they have crafted a cohesive sound from their influences of past masters of jangly indie pop. </p>
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<p>Ride It (Whilst You Can) </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The second track opens with a stabbing piano before the chiming guitars return. The theme here is to live it whilst you can and don’t let anyone - especially yourself dissuade you from following your dream. As contemporary band The Shed Project put it “You only get one shot to live your life”. This isn’t the cocky voice of youth singing “We’re gonna live forever” but a more mature reflections “don’t hang on regrets” and “don’t be guilty of broken dreams”. The lyrics certainly resonate with us middle aged indie kids and the pulsating indie pop music drives it along. </p><p>Out of Reach </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Imagine Ride playing Echo Beach from a helicopter while the world revolves at 45rpm. A quote so good I’ve revived it and embellished it for the album review. This is a lockdown song, being trapped inside, lamenting the wasted days, weeks, months and missing the people and places that are out of reach during this pandemic. The sense of loss for days that could have been. The repetition of another day inside are juxtaposed with the life affirming frantic indie guitar music. Someone recently suggested that an album can be judged on the strength of track three. Well this bodes well for The State of Being Human. The awesome video won an award and is worth viewing. </p>
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<p>Break Down Walls </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This song has a lovely singalong vibe and echoes of The La’s. It is a calmer moment that briefly slows the pace of the album. Break Down Walls is about reaching out and offering support to help another in need. It continues the theme of breaking down the barriers that humans build around themselves.</p><p>Calling Out</p><p style="text-align: justify;">There’s a little nod to Girls on Film by Duran Duran on this one. Or is it just me? It opens with a baying crowd listening to a speech. The imaged past can’t be recaptured and this song is calling out to embrace the future. I doubt I’ld be too far off target to say it was written about Brexit but it could also be applied to other political issues. It’s a calling for humans to come together, and change the current path we are taking and expose the liers who led us here. That’s my take on this song - it’s a political calling to rise up and do something unspecified to change the direction. The mood is angry as befits a political song but it takes a wonderful musical shift towards optimism with one of my favourite moments on the album when The Shop Window go full “Vapour Trail” whilst calling on people to wake up and not to delay action. As we know rebellions are built on hope.</p><p>Disengage The Robots </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Human connection is being reduced to brief interactions between the domination of technology that has crept into everyone’s lives. A parent’s concern that their child’s life will be dominated by their mobile devices. I hear a sly nod towards Giorgio Moroder, and Together in Electric Dreams, which is rather appropriate. It is a sentiment I can relate to as I stream this album on one device whilst reviewing it on another. </p><p>Flags</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Side 2 of the album (I’m getting this on limited edition vinyl so it has two sides in my mind) opens with another uplifting protest song. I’m guessing it could be nationalism but The Shop Window avoid preaching about specifics so it won’t date the song. “If they wave their flags for you I’ll raise mine higher and set it on fire”. The Shop Window urge the listener to act, “nail your colours to the mast” and refuse to be passive consumer of whatever’s been spoon-fed. Like many of my favourite, er mature aged indie bands, they still have the fire in their bellies and fury about injustices. The ever present jangly guitars are accompanied by a choir of backing vocals and some cheery Robert Smith style “do do do dos”. </p><p>Evacuate</p><p style="text-align: justify;">This was the song that first turned my attention to The Shop Window last year when MobyTanner featured it in one of his first Rebirth of Cool blogs. It was released as a double A-side with Out of Reach in January as a perfect 7” vinyl. The music sounds like it was made by a supergroup containing Teenage Fanclub, Ride and The Wedding Present. Carl attributes the frantic pace with the origins of the song being written to keep up with his son’s dance moves. The themes on Evacuate stem from the anxiety of constantly moving “chasing jet streams” and not setting down roots. </p>
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<p>2nd Book</p><p>A funky bassline with a Charlatans vibe. There is some reverb or possibly reverse reverb? “On the second book of the trilogy of life”. Another song about embracing the reality of aging and seeing where it takes you rather than trying to relive your youth.</p><p>Sad Eyes</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Continuing the themes of human connections, aging and reminiscing is previous single Sad Eyes written following Carl’s visit with Nana Shop Window. This wasn’t originally intended for the album but maybe it’s popularity as a single and the themes fitted well with the rest of the album.</p>
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<p>I Realise </p><p style="text-align: justify;">A love song about the dependency between a couple separated by distance. The guitars are set to understated Johnny Marr.</p><p>Jack’s Lullaby</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Ending the album on a beautiful instrumental track. It does remind me of the softer moments on Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness and The Shop Window even add sleigh bells to the mix and I’m a sucker for them.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">So that concludes my track by track deep dive into the album. I suggest you be quick about it if you want a copy on vinyl or CD. You’ll be supporting the band, improving your record collection and you’ll get to hear it before the streamers. Don’t be a Johnny-Come-Lately, splash your cash and reserve your copy of 2021’s jangliest album for your music collection. Capital idea! </p><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">The advertising campaign alone is worthy of an award so kudus to whoever created these brilliant teaser videos.</div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p3JgGrCfufI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><p></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-18842336576090393702021-05-06T01:18:00.001+08:002021-05-06T01:26:29.563+08:00Mixtape May 21<p>It's May 2021 - It's time to find out what I've been digging over the last month. Twelve of these artists were unknown to me at the start of the year and there are only two artists I would have known about at the start of 2020. I love discovering new music and if your reading this then you probably do too. I'll get straight into it with another 20 recommendations. Quick reminder that it is Bandcamp Friday on 7th May 2021 so if you have anything in your wishlist then that's the day for an online shopping spree.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6is2MfUa87Y0UwXPprdFpM?si=0cb11f7b7f804b19">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape May 2021 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NZUnHS13hYQ/YJK5krGi6wI/AAAAAAAAL48/iEQ-UPCkHDMS7WHsn8K6UqJBZVVTuRtfwCNcBGAsYHQ/s384/Dunkie.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NZUnHS13hYQ/YJK5krGi6wI/AAAAAAAAL48/iEQ-UPCkHDMS7WHsn8K6UqJBZVVTuRtfwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Dunkie.JPG" /></a></div><p></p><p>1) <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; text-size-adjust: auto;">The Vanishing by Dunkie</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1">This band are new to me but they have been working on their craft for several years in Welsh valleys. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Dunkie create ethereal soundscapes and draw listeners into their world. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This isn’t music for the indie disco but perfect for headphones, dark nights and swooning. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> The n</span>ew EP, called the Vanishing and other Stories, features delicate orchestration, rousing rock and many emotional punches to the gut. The use of guest vocalists keep this 5 track collection fresh and a great introduction to the band.</span>I urge you to save their EP until you find a quiet moment in your day without interruptions so you can take it all in. </p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;">Dunkie remind me of a mixture of many great musical talents. Here they fall somewhere between Portishead, the Manics and Moonlight Parade but it feels like Dunkie could spring in any direction. There is a collaboration with artist Michael Gustavius Payne and it is clear that they consider art as an integral part of the Dunkie experience. Punters that have purchased their debut album from <a href="https://dunkie.bandcamp.com/music">https://dunkie.bandcamp.com/</a> have left gushing reviews of the attention to detail of the physical CD, artwork, booklet, poetic lyrics and the magical music on debut album - Working to Design. It is an album I definitely have on my mental wishlist and hopefully it will get a vinyl release soon. </p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;">The most shocking thing to me is that the band have just over a hundred monthly listeners on Spotify so give them some love and share their talents to like-minded musical friends. This is perhaps the longest review I have ever written on my monthly blog, which reflects just how impressed I am. Dunkie is a band that deserves to be elevated to a wider audience.</p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></p><p>2) Rewind by Redwood </p><p>A hauntingly beautiful song performed by a uniquely talented singer in Redwood. The question here is whether you would change your life if you could rewind your life? It is a song that builds from a sparse piano ballad allowing Redwood’s vocals to shine through over a thunderous ending.</p>
<p>3) Puzzles by Michael Robert Murphy</p><p>Keeping things on an upbeat trippy er... trip, we have Michael Robert Murphy who is part of the Mersey Delta's current plethora of psychedelic-tinged artists. Puzzles was produced and features James Skelly - who appeared on last month's blog working with Lucy Gaffney. The Coral have also just released a brilliant album so he's been busy lately. Happily there is plenty more from Michael Robert Murphy to enjoy if you want to delve further with the Metamorph EP released last year and his previous band The Wicked Whispers. I expect to hear plenty more from Michael Robert Murphy now he's appeared on my radar. </p>
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<p>4) Hide and Seek by Dictator </p><p>Dictator follow up Moonlight with another song with Michael’s vocals again pushed to the fore supported by minimal instrumental accompaniment. This unusual ploy seems to be working for them and you can’t mistake Dictator for anyone else at the moment. If you’ve got the range and the confidence then why not push it. Hide and Seek is a powerful performance and is available to buy from iTunes raising money for Women’s Aid charity. The Dictator lads feature and wear their hearts on their sleeves and have released two charity songs in six months. Support your favourite Dictator and an important cause by purchasing their Hide and Seek single from iTunes</p><p>5) All My Worries by Super 8</p><p>Super 8 brings the early Seventies vibes on All My Worries which is a contender for feelgood song of the year. "All My Worries have Gone" sings Super 8 channeling the ghost of John Lennon as he fronts Gorky's Zygotic Minci playing a free festival to the beautiful people in a sunny meadow. The influences are proudly on display and fun to pick out. With four albums recorded and a fifth on the way Super 8 is an artist worth discovering. <a href="https://trip8.bandcamp.com/">https://trip8.bandcamp.com/</a></p>
<p>6) Ye'll Dae What Yer Telt Or Else by Fire Up The Sun</p><p>Taking a sledgehammer to the peace and love vibes are my favourite sweary Scottish act Fire Up The Sun. I realised that is crowded field but the new comers have snatched the title when they released Big Computer - their third EP. The lead track is a critique on the expanding power of the state and the population's willingness to surrender to it to a heavy beat reminiscent of Lust for Life. Just because you're paranoid don't mean their not after you. Elsewhere on the EP they explain the class struggle with Disney's A Bug's Life, and take on the rest of the world on Nae One Gives A Fuck (Part One). Bloody hope this means Part Two is coming 'cause it made me laugh out loud. Get onto this EP and if you're new to Fire Up The Sun then you're in for a rude awakening. </p>
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<p>7) Get What You Deserve by The Kynd</p><p>The Kynd where a UK band from the late Nineties who have presumably reformed during lockdown. Get What You Deserve has got all the Britpop era traits, an anthem built with guitars and strings, a Hurricane#1 vibe with pure vitriol in the lyrics. I don't remember the band from the 90's so after a quick google I can confirm that they formed in 1991 and Andy Bell (Ah!) produced their debut single Egotripper in 1996. They released their only album Shakedown in 1999 and broke up the following year. It seems they have unfinished business and this is a strong comeback single. </p><p>8) Losing My Mind by Louis and the Shakes</p><p>This track opens with pounding drums and a great big dirty riff. It's a familiar tale of boy meets girl, boy loses his mind set to storming indie blues rock. It's over before its begun so play it a few times. A taster of things to come when the album arrives later this year. </p><p>9) (You’ve Gotta) Shout It Out by DDE’s</p><p>Another song about losing your mind, this time caused by months of lockdown. Manchester’s DDE’s first release since the excellent Calm Before The Storm EP from July 2020. There are samples of politicians lying about Covid and Brexit, blistering drums, squalling guitars and a pop punk rock tune that wouldn’t be out of place on Green Day’s Dookie. DDE's call for the end of physical isolation and a return to normality, lots of shouting and running it out of town. What 'it' is isn’t clear - the Virus? the Tories? the Madness? All of them? Whatever, it’s rock and roll and calling for a noisy uprising. </p>
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<p>10) Through The Storm by Paul Nixon</p><p>The Warrington singer songwriter’s latest single is an acoustic take of his world weary Noel-esque song. Ultimately it’s a song about offering protection and support during tough times which strikes a chord with so many of us. It’s just a man, three chords and the truth strumming his guitar. But it affects you. <a href="https://paulnixon.bandcamp.com/">https://paulnixon.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p>11) Touching Distance by GreenCircles </p><p>The new 4 track EP came out in Mid April and it’s a strong collection of tracks. I was honoured to have the lead track Touching Distance as an exclusive on my radio show and pleased to see the positive response to it upon release. It starts with some strumming guitar and Paul's voice then builds up adding more and more to the mix. Another string laden ending perfect for swaying crowds lighters held aloft with a tear in the corner of their eyes. The EP also includes the songs Wrecking Ball, Turn It Up plus the instrumental Gallowgate Ends which I understand is named after a stand at Newcastle’s FC stadium. Anyway this cracking EP isn't on Bandcamp so stream it. Older singles can be purchased here... <a href="https://greencircles1.bandcamp.com/">https://greencircles1.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p>12) Clusterfuck by Byron Smith</p><p>Byron is a singer songwriter from Melbourne with a dry wit and his song Clusterfuck is about how close he is to achieving the beautiful life. There's only a few hurdles to overcome but unfortunately those hurdles are multiplying faster than they can be tackled. Some amazing lyrics here and I always hear something new that makes me chuckle on each play. <a href="https://byronsmith.bandcamp.com/"> https://byronsmith.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p>13) One Shot Remix by The Shed Project & MC Tunes</p><p>Once upon a time in Bolton there was a band that lived in a magic shed. When Roy said MC Tunes 3 times into a mirror he summoned the legendary Moss Side rapper. The lads decided to re-record their One Shot single in the magic shed - believing if they could recreate the baggy spirit of the 1990 Summer of Love, then why the fuck not? With an original Madchester MC on board, jazzy saxophones, phat beats, squelchy acid and Screamadelica era horns they crafted an groove so addictive that all the Shedheads who heard it lived happily ever after (in rehab). </p>
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<p>14) Frontier Psychiatrist (Mario Caldato Jr's 85% Remix) by The Avalanches </p><p>To celebrate the 21st anniversary of the release of their acclaimed sampledelic debut album, Australia’s The Avalanches are about to release a deluxe edition with some bonus remixes. I’ve loved this track for two decades and it's refreshed on this new remix. I was meant to see them at a festival last weekend. Sadly, like so many gigs it was impacted by lockdown restrictions and has been rescheduled for later in the year. Then again fans of the Avalanches are used to waiting. Remember when The Roses took five years to release their second album? The Avalanches took fifteen years!</p><p>15) Fall For You (Chill UNE Remix) by Crimson Bloom</p><p>Fall For You is the jangly hit from Crimson Bloom's excellent debut album. It has got a chilled out Ibiza treatment at the skilled hands of UNE (Paul Langley and Mark Radcliff). It takes Fall On You into Together In Electric Dreams territory and bathes it is lush swathes of synths. Andy's voice and an acoustic guitar are still there but this version would be epic to hear whilst watching the sun rising over the sea. The EP is called At The Airport (Remix EP) and includes five remixes if you purchase it from <a href="https://crimsonbloom.bandcamp.com/">https://crimsonbloom.bandcamp.com/</a> </p><p>16) Sink or Swim by Mark Sharp & the Bicycle Thieves</p><p>A jangle indie rock pop tune in the best traditions of the genre. I like Mark Sharp but I'm not keen on bicycle thieves in general. Another awesome West Lothian band preparing for some gigs in the UK. <a href="https://marksharpmusic.bandcamp.com/music">https://marksharpmusic.bandcamp.com/music</a></p><p>17) Hold Me In Your Arms by Shark Star</p><p>A tear-stained personal lament dealing with his feelings related to the death of his father. This is wonderful and moving song. </p><p>18) I Said That You Looked Fine by Alex James</p><p>Alex James (not the cheese munching bass player from Blur - I did check) created this band whilst studying Music degree at Newcastle University and they are currently big in Helsinki at the moment. The music is influenced by dirty riffs and blues rock bands especially Royal Blood, The Black Keys and Arctic Monkeys. Alex is wheelchair bound and one of his aims is to raise awareness push for more inclusion of disabilities in the music industry. This is his second single and Alex James are another to join the North East's roster of new bands. </p><p>19) Anything You Want by The Utopiates</p><p>A funky Indie rock band from London with stacks of tracks, grooves and fun attitude. Look no further than The Utopiates with their blend of synths and guitars which is finding a growing audience. This is their fourth release of the year for this new band and all have been top choons. <a href="https://theutopiates.bandcamp.com/">https://theutopiates.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wHbJDNa1QDE" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p><p>20) No Way Of Knowing by Moonlight Parade</p><p>Purveyors of cool indie melodies, Moonlight Parade have released a new single Wake Me Up and b-side No Way Of Knowing. I've picked the b-side to end this month's playlist cos it makes me smile. The Worthing Trio have unleashed around 40 songs over the last three years making picking my #MoonLightParadeTop10 another tricky twitter challenge. The countdown fun starts on Friday 7th May so get listening, put your thinking caps on and get involved. If you've not heard them then you're in for a real treat.as you discover all their marvelous tunes.<a href="https://moonlightparade1.bandcamp.com/"> https://moonlightparade1.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p> </p><p>That's it for another month. Keep an eye on MobyTanner's
<a href="https://youtube.com/user/Mobytanner"> Rebirth of Cool TV YouTube Channel</a> for the next episode of the #Indie100Cup and I should be on InYourEarsMusic.com with the DAFT POM Radio Show on Saturday 16th and 30th of May. If you want to listen to my previous shows then they are collected here...</p><div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0wAOTPMkxnUg7WeKcLy0f5?si=e30ca205e6904651">The #DAFTPOM Show Podcasts </a> </u></div>
<p>Laters Innovators </p><p>xxx </p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-60.262546136178841 80.705059 -3.6420784638211536 151.017559tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-72801731851527265662021-04-07T23:20:00.000+08:002021-04-07T23:20:22.854+08:00Mixtape April 21<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PaiI3KX7euw/YG3MtuwUrfI/AAAAAAAAL30/BWWw04m5FKE0PRJE_4yQb7YrhCvKceHRwCNcBGAsYHQ/s251/Capture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="246" data-original-width="251" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PaiI3KX7euw/YG3MtuwUrfI/AAAAAAAAL30/BWWw04m5FKE0PRJE_4yQb7YrhCvKceHRwCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/Capture.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>I feel very honoured to have my blog featured again on the Boggs Holler Curiosity Shoppe Show with AprylRae and David saying lovely things about it.
Here's the link to their podcast</div><div><a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/5jCNIksoT7oooVAkWSu6V0?si=pYu8dQoDSc6NhhKSaeGU0w">Boggs Holler Curiosity Shop Episode Two</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>So the pressure's on to write a decent blog this month! </div><div>With my fortnightly DAFT POM show on <a href="inyourearsmusic.com"> InYourEars </a> and my monthly roundup #Indie100Cup with Michael Tanner on his
<a href="https://youtube.com/user/Mobytanner"> Rebirth of Cool TV YouTube Channel</a>
I'm getting to my blog later and later each month but the new music doesn't stop and neither will I. </div><div>I had about forty songs I wanted to write about this month but having a few other outlets now, affords me the opportunity to share more music than my blog's self-imposed limit of 20 songs. So enough of my editorial problems let's get into the tunes. </div><div><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3m2arcVTSP44JZ5dbZJIsH?si=umHO2owOSbe3pN32Jj5jcQ">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape April 2021 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div>
<div><br /></div><div>1) Joker by The Haciendas
<a href="https://twitter.com/HaciendasThe">@HaciendasThe</a>
</div><div>I'm starting my April blog with a right couple of jokers. Two songs released recently with the same name. This is from Manchester (where else?) and it's only the second release by the band. This is an indie rock band with the emphasis on hard rock. From the two tracks I've heard I predict they would be a riot when they can play live again and they have a Manchester gig scheduled for October. </div><div><br /></div><div>2) Joker by Reclaim Vienna <a href="https://twitter.com/Reclaim_V">@Reclaim_V</a> </div><div>The second in our pair of jokers is from the North West's Electro Eighties Enthusiasts Reclaim Vienna. I wonder if they hope to reclaim the Austrian capital from Ultravox? The song is a high tempo indie pop banger with swirling synths, propulsive beats and a catchy chorus. </div><div><br /></div><div>3) Pink Lunettes by Pond <a href="https://twitter.com/PONDband">@PONDband</a> </div><div> This is a bit of a left field move even for a psychedelic indie rock band from Western Australia. They have embraced the electro dance floor with a groovy move in the direction of Working Men's Club or Klaxons. When the beats cut out they end this song with more familiar Pond trippiness. Their next album should be excellent. </div><div><br /></div>
<div>4) Spinning Me Out by Jet City Sports Club <a href="https://linktr.ee/jetcitysportsclub">linktr.ee/jetcitysportsclub</a></div><div> Sydney band Jet City Sports Club have released their debut EP called September Sun which is a great collection of 5 laid back jangling indie tunes that has already had the celebrity approval of Bobby Carlyle and getting airplay from me. They sound delicious so if you haven't discovered them yet, dive in! </div><div><br /></div>
<div> 5) Go Away by The Tazers <a href="https://twitter.com/TheTazers">@TheTazers</a></div><div>South Africa's The Tazers bringing the noise, attitude and riffs like a punk rock version of Kings of Leon. I'm not familiar with the Johannesburg music scene but thanks to The Tazers I'm now vaguely aware that it exists. </div><div><br /></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ONIrabZyDhU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div><br />
<div><br /></div><div>6) Faster Chopper Boogie by Acid's Trip <a href="https://linktr.ee/acidstrip">linktr.ee/acidstrip</a></div><div>"White Trash, I've No Class, Let's Drink and Smoke That Grass" Sweden's Acid's Trip evoke memories of The Ramones or The Stooges with an energetic punky bop also known as the Gothenburg Groove. Album Strings of Soul is released in early May. </div><div><br /></div><div>7)Text Back Blues by Jackson Lucitt <a href="https://twitter.com/JacksonLucitt">@JacksonLucitt</a></div><div>The debut single from the indie folk singer from the hotbed of Welsh musical talent - Port Talbot. Jackson soaked up the American influences when he visited Nashville and now he's merged those with his love of indie rock. It sounds like Jake Bugg fronting the country cousins of Revivalry. </div><div><br /></div>
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<div><br /></div><div>8) My Port Talbot Town by Vela Incident <a href="https://twitter.com/IncidentVela">@IncidentVela</a></div><div>An ode to their hometown in South Wales from my favourite band that record in their closets. The Vela Incident have just released a remastered album of all their previous singles and b-sides. I do like a song that shouts out a local place. I've never been to Port Talbot - honestly I'd never heard of it until Vela Incident put it on the map. Hopefully the band are busy recruiting a new guitarist who can work within the cramped recording wardrobe studio. </div><div><br /></div><div>9) The Town You're From by Lucy Gaffney <a href="https://twitter.com/Lucy__Gaffney">@Lucy__Gaffney</a>
</div><div>Here the Irish singer songwriter picks up the theme of local shout outs. This acoustic strum-along performed barely louder than a whisper. It evokes nostalgic recollections of how places change but retain a pull on you regardless of how far you've traveled. The song was written by former Coral founder Bill Ryder-Jones who also duets with Lucy on this. </div><div><br /></div><div>10) Overflow by Emperor of Ice Cream <a href="https://twitter.com/TheEmperorsCork">@TheEmperorsCork</a>
</div><div>This band were originally formed in Cork back in 1992 and this latest single sounds like a blast of early Nineties indie that got me hooked on the genre. Overflow is somewhere between baggy, shoegaze and the JAMC and that will always be a wonderful sonic sweet-spot. </div><div><br /></div>
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<div><br /></div><div>11) Darkside by 3 Little Wolves </div><div>A hypnotic downbeat groove from a band new to Spotify and Twitter. 3 Little Wolves have recorded a couple of albums uploaded to YouTube but the new direction is the first to be released on Spotify. I've known Paul - the man behind the band since the Mid-Nineties and we shared many adventures and gigs back in the heyday of Britpop. The 3 Little Wolves are new to Twitter so please give <a href="https://twitter.com/3LittleWolves1">@3LittleWolves1</a> a follow. </div><div><br /></div><div>12)Pink River by Nice Biscuit <a href="https://twitter.com/nicebiscuitband">@nicebiscuitband</a></div><div>Back with new material, it's Nice Biscuit, Brisbane's psychedelic garage rockers bringing catchy harmonies and the wigged out tunes that Australians demand. </div><div><br /></div><div>13) It's Mine, It's Ours, It's Yours by No Expectations <a href="https://linktr.ee/No_expectations">linktr.ee/No_expectations</a>
</div><div>This Geelong punk band have featured on my last two DAFT POM radio shows with their previous singles. You may know them as I did as fun snarling thrashy punks but on this song they show a much greater musical maturity that caught me off guard. I think this is their best song yet and I'm having trouble describing it and its influences. I don't even want to try and describe it because I can't do it justice. It's a total cop out for a music blog - but I'd be interested to hear what my readers/listeners think of it? </div><div><br /></div><div>14) Things Just Come and Go by Alex Spencer <a href="https://linktr.ee/alexspencer">linktr.ee/alexspencer</a>
</div><div>Alex is a new Mancunian singer songwriter and this is his debut song ahead of a debut album. Very much a lockdown project, Alex has spent his time cooped up honing his writing and production skills. Alex Spencer is one to keep an eye on this year. </div><div><br /></div>
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<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>15) Darkness In Your Eyes by The Heavy North <a href="https://twitter.com/theheavynorth">@theheavynorth</a>
</div><div>Darkness in your eyes is a blues rocker, pounding drums, killer guitar licks and a top vocal performance from Kenny. It's the first glimpse of the debut album which is surely gonna be a modern classic.
The song's narrative is based on troubled soul, feeling low and craving love but the warning signs are visible in her eyes. </div><div><br /></div><div>16) Frank by Garage Sale <a href="https://linktr.ee/garagesaleband">linktr.ee/garagesaleband</a></div><div>Garage Sale are a Melbourne band who play grunge rock. It's been decades since I was into that scene but when I heard this I was transported back to 1993. Frank could sit nicely alongside Siamese Dream. Listen right to the end to hear their pet cat make a debut appearance. </div><div><br /></div><div>17) Better by Radium Dolls <a href="https://linktr.ee/radiumdolls">linktr.ee/radiumdolls</a></div><div>An anthem for the times - this song is suitable for anyone that needs a lift when things are getting them down. The chorus here should help restore the spark of hope. Their positivity is infectious.
Radium Dolls are another band from Brisbane and there seems to be a bit of cross-fertilisation (probably not the term I was searching for) with the next band. </div><div><br /></div><div>18) Slow Burn by Perve Endings <a href="https://linktr.ee/perve_endings">linktr.ee/perve_endings</a>
</div><div>Also in Brisbane and possibly sharing band members with Radium Dolls is Perve Endings. I adore the vocal performance on Slow Burn. This is so powerful! </div><div><br /></div><div>19) April Nights by Shag Rock <a href="https://twitter.com/shagrockmusic">@shagrockmusics</a></div><div>Brisbane provides three in a row now with the indie surf of Shag Rock and the appropriately named April Nights. Shag Rock plan to release a double album this year which is unusual in the modern music scene. </div><div><br /></div><div>20) That'll Do by Mark Frith </div><div>Mark has an interesting tale that he is happy to share about his career in the music industry over the last 15 years. He's got thr talent but his band The Troubadours never broke through in the UK. He's now a solo artist with a big following in the North West of England and Japan and id sharing the process of writing and recording his debut solo album via a series of YouTube videos. Give him a follow or subscribe here <a href="https://linktr.ee/Markfrith">linktr.ee/Markfrith</a> and join him on his journey.<div><br /><div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oCSyzC8-R9k" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div></div></div></div>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-60.262546136178841 80.705059 -3.6420784638211536 151.017559tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-26957378821156379902021-03-12T00:59:00.001+08:002021-04-07T22:56:53.092+08:00Mixtape March 2021<p><span face=""Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-size: 17px;">I have been writing a monthly musical blog for over five years but it was only when I joined Twitter last year that I started getting a lot of feedback that people were listening. </span><span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space" face=""Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #1d2228; font-size: 17px;"> </span><span face=""Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-size: 17px;">I enjoyed writing it and it served as a musical diary of what I was digging at the time so I carried on. </span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">But when @AprylRae & @penhitspaper recorded a radio show </span><u style="background-color: transparent; text-align: center;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6pvnUVawz4lFUqDgr9TmK8?si=PvbK8YTJTN-mKkhTw-xKXw">Boggs Holler Curiousity Shop - Premier</a> </u>from-the-holler.com which kindly mentioned my blog alongside other notable new music writers, I started to think about why I was doing it. </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">I’ve kept the blog format of 20 fairly new songs unchanged despite lean months or bumper crops of tunes. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Occasionally it was hard to fill it, but the usual problem is what to exclude each month. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>I always enjoyed creating cassette mixtapes for my friends and playlists were the digital successor. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Describing the music with words was a new challenge with the blog but one I enjoyed.</span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">I always had a copy of NME or Melody Maker back in the 90’s and decorated my room with the covers and album adverts. </span>Back then music was expensive and hard to hear so the music paper reviews were invaluable to alert me to exciting new acts and warn me what to avoid. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Those 90s reviewers would influence what I bought. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>I didn’t always agree with them but if a reviewer panned a new album then I wouldn’t risk buying it unheard.</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">Today we have a different set of problems - the internet’s streaming sites have made music free, highly available and offer an unlimited choice. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span></span>I saw an article that said there was something like 60,000 new songs released on Spotify every week (or possibly a day). I realised I could add value as a recommender/purveyor of fine taste in the indie music scene. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>As I’m already a new music junky I might as well promote the best artists and songs that I love and try and bring them to a wider audience. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>I want the bands to be successful and I want music lovers to discover and share my excitement for hearing a brilliant new song for the first time. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>I have met a like-minded community on Twitter in the #TuneArmy who share my passions I’m having a blast swapping recommendations with them and the artists. </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">So that’s why I’m still blogging, and if you’re as hooked as me then you’ve <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>probably heard most of my selection but even so sometimes a song you’ve heard once sometimes needs another play before it gets under your skin. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Given I still blog on a monthly basis then I need to pick just 20 songs from the hundreds I hear each month. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>My 2021 playlist is over 19 hours long already. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>So I pick some of the highlights here to promote them to anyone who will read and listen.</span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">Well before I write an essay, I should get on with the business of the day. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> So w</span>hat is oldindiekid pushing this month? </span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5d9uKfZncb6KwbiiE5NGsq?si=qQ0plwpHQU-B4TA_2_q0xQ">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape March 2021 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div>
<p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">1) Nice Try by Jessica Luise</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">This song has really grown on me over the last six<span> </span>weeks. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Nice Try is an awesome composition and a perfect example of blissful jangle pop. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Jessica has an angelic voice and it’s so well produced too - a truly classic song.<span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"><br /></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">2) Everybody’s Gotta Get Somewhere by My Mate John </span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">A prolific London artist who has just released Artefact his fourth album in two years. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>This track sounds like The Cure if they had emerged on Sarah Records label in 1989.</span> </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">3) Nufflink By Lewca </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">The Souf Landan Parisian Punk Rap Raver returns with his second EP. I’ve selected the 2Tone Ska style song Nufflink for this month’s playlist. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s an autobiographical tale of crime and punishment as told by an 8 year old receiving frozen goods. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Lewca is a engaging storyteller who raps and snarls through his latest batch of cathartic personal tales and unhinged bangers. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Walking the Hedgehog EP is available now for purchase on his Bandcamp page ahead of other streaming sites. And a limited edition 10 track vinyl is available for pre-order at <a href="https://www.diggersfactory.com/vinyl/240426/lewca-double-ep-3-kids-a-mortgage-walking-the-hedgehog">Diggers Factory</a>
</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">4) Sally Brown By Ollie Winder </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Ollie is another singer songwriter based in Lancashire with a voice that unintentionally sounds like Ian Brown. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>His latest album Set The Record Straight is packed full of a cohesive collection of indie rock/pop songs influenced by the usual suspects (Oasis/Roses/La’s). However his recent Apocalypse 3 track EP has a totally different sound evoking XTRMNTR era Primal Scream so I’m not gonna assume anything from his forthcoming second album of the year.<span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">5) Nothing To Die For by The John Mitchie Collective </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">This is a collective of one but again another highly prolific artist who has unleashed a load of music over the last couple of months. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>I’ve been enjoying his High Vibrations album (of the year) which is glued to my car stereo. John channels the essence of Spiritualized, Pink Floyd, Mercury Rev, John-Michel Jarre and The Doors often within the same song. <span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">6) Touch of Venice by The Moon Kids </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">New 5 track EP Ride With The Hurricanes is a fantastic collection from the Scottish rock n rollers in the vein of the BRMC. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Touch of Venice is my favourite track and I can hear the influence of the Richard Ashcroft’s swagger and the melodies of Crowded House on this great song.</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">7) The Mushroom Song by Felix & The Sunsets </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Blues swamp rock tune breaking on through to the other side after a shroom brew. </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">
<iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/5d9uKfZncb6KwbiiE5NGsq" width="300"></iframe>
</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">8) Twisting The Knife Away by Enola Fall </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Australian band with an amazing tune <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>that puts the listener on edge as the pounding percussion, War On Drugs style guitars and synths swirl around and within your mind. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>You think the songs is ending but it’s a short lull as the pressure builds again until a sudden stop. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> When it ends y</span>ou can feel the pressure lift and notice your heartbeats racing. This ain’t background music - this truly effects! Available on Bandcamp.com<span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">9) Supermarket Sweep by Uncle Kid</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Mesmerizing stream of consciousness lyrics spoken by a talented new artist from Scotland. The music is unnerving soundscapes with trip hop beats. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Tricky is an obvious reference point <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>but also The Arab Strap and Underworld. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>This is taken from his recent Indistinct Chatter EP.</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h1a8qL9QQPE" width="560"></iframe><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">10) Mothers Against Christian Rock by Fire Up The Sun <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Another fine example of Scotland’s talent or as they describe themselves “two schemies“. This track is a constructive critique of the Christian Rock genre. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> A v</span>ery dry sense of humour is displayed on the eight tracks available on the TAR & Unmasked EPs. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Indulge yourself.<span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">11) Dirty Gonzo by Psyence</span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">An infectious foot tapping monster of a tune with propulsive rhythm and heavy psychedelic guitars swirling around. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> Psyence</span> have supported local favourites of mine - the Psychedelic Porn Crumpets and the two bands are well paired. </span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">12) Psycho Killer by The Lottery Winners<span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">I love a good cover and The Lottery Winners take on this classic from Talking Heads is up with the best of them.</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">13) Shame On You by Revivalry </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">It has been a pleasure to watch this young band develop over the last year and Shame On You is another huge progression for the Teenage sensations. It's a blast from start to finish The vocals, guitars and drums are all excellent and this is their best song yet. I also hear their new video will be out on Sunday 14th March - keep an eye out for that.<span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">14) Birthing Bell by Lines of Flight </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Debut single from this Leeds duo who plan to release a song each month. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Electronic ethereal waves of sound lap at your ears. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Let this wash over you and bathe in it’s shoe gaze charms. Follow up Moth-Eaten Heart is expected at the start of April. <span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">15) Blind by Lyon Tide </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">It creeps in like an understated early 80s new romantic song and breaks into a catchy chorus with a tale of regret and lost love but sprinkled with hope.</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EQz8zoXd9PI" width="560"></iframe><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">16) The Boy In The Doorway by Hightown Pirates </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Second release of the year penned by Pirate Captain Simon Mason. A harrowing emotionally charged song on the subject of homelessness and addiction. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Simon is reaching out to those who have replaced him on the streets. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>The orchestration here is amazing. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>The Hightown Pirates are taking vinyl pre-orders for their second album over on Bandcamp and will be playing gigs later in the year.<span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">17) Found Ourselves by Joe Adhemar</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Rebellion boils under the surface on this unsettling composition. I don't want to give you my interpretation of the lyrics as I'm sure its probably wrong and you need to do some of the work here! Taken from the excellent album of the same name. "We might have lost the summer, at least we found ourselves".</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">18) Drop Your Arms by Senses</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Huge indie rock tune from the boys from Coventry. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>I can see this band threatening the mainstream. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Don’t forget us when you’re Stadium Rockers on World Tours! Is this the best dream you’ve ever had? <span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">19) It's Alright by Paul Nixon</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Wonderful song from Warrington's Paul Nixon. It starts like the Velvet Underground's Heroine but with happier lyrics. It has a Verve vibe and builds to an almost Polyphonic Spree level hypnotic chant. You''ll be swaying lighters aloft to this tune one day. I must listen to more from Paul.</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">20) Feel My Love by The Shed Project </p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">Roy’s hitting the high notes on the latest and greatest song emanating out of the Bolton Shed. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s a beauty of a song and I know it well loved by the Twitter musical community. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Feel My Love received the most votes of any of the 32 songs entered in the #Indie100Cup. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Really looking forward to hearing the next release - the long awaited One Shot Remix with MC Tunes. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>Bring it on!</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;">
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AivQU0pYWqc" width="560"></iframe><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span></p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">I recently presented my first radio show in 25 years - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/3UozIHbOdyJjsaBKn4SyYM?si=3sR4gPr7TryZKeSBxqQjKw">The DAFT POM Show</a> </span> is now available as a podcast.</p><p class="yiv7296152062p2" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1"></span><br /></p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv7296152062s1">There is a great weekend of music coming up on
<a href="https://www.https://www.inyourearsmusic.com/">Inyourearsmusic.com</a>
on 13-14 March. <span class="yiv7296152062Apple-converted-space"> </span>We are raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support with an acoustic festival with sets from all the best independent bands on the scene. I have a show Sunday 10am (UK time) but I will try and listen to as much as I can this weekend. It</span> will be an Acoustic Live Aid - so tune in and cough up! </p><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sp93gqu2qQY/YEpLuOrPPjI/AAAAAAAAL2U/8rCAxTGe_7oztD_JUIS12UJBNRGa2ishwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/AAAAAAThe%2BSessions.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="295" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sp93gqu2qQY/YEpLuOrPPjI/AAAAAAAAL2U/8rCAxTGe_7oztD_JUIS12UJBNRGa2ishwCNcBGAsYHQ/w523-h295/AAAAAAThe%2BSessions.jpg" width="523" /></a></div><br /><p class="yiv7296152062p1" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><div><span class="yiv7296152062s1"><br /></span></div>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com5Perth WA, Australia-31.9523123 115.861309-60.262546136178841 80.705059 -3.6420784638211536 151.017559tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-63839515771660501662021-02-04T22:15:00.055+08:002021-02-06T14:59:00.092+08:00Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Feb '21<p>I'm writing this during Perth's second lockdown whilst bush fire ash and potential corona virus particles float around outside. Here are twenty tracks that came out recently that I've been digging and using to drown out the sounds of my home-schooling children. Don't forget to buy some physical or virtual music on Bandcamp Friday (5th Feb).</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1SujZnFC0hwhXiEAyqdIy5?si=eo_6ezwpSE2XXWvt5DqnyQ">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Feb 2021 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bti1Uz_bBno/YBvNYC_h3RI/AAAAAAAAL0g/Ah_d_JqvTZEAsSQyZ4gg7KseP_PxSt8wwCNcBGAsYHQ/s238/aaa.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="234" data-original-width="238" height="196" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bti1Uz_bBno/YBvNYC_h3RI/AAAAAAAAL0g/Ah_d_JqvTZEAsSQyZ4gg7KseP_PxSt8wwCNcBGAsYHQ/w200-h196/aaa.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><p>1) For All Lost Souls by Vela Incident</p><p>This beautiful introduction opens February's playlist - a song which has demonstrated what can be achieved with home recordings, songs written when they were teenagers and dusted off decades later and a band who's current lineup are yet to met in person. This has really soared to become their biggest song and it was only released in Mid-January. Socially active in a virtual sense @IncidentVela</p><p>2) All Fall Down by GreenCircles </p><p></p><p> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OqhGK71spP8" width="560"></iframe> </p>Another excellent poignant song from the Newcastle band. The song discusses the impact of the UK's Covid-19 response; the collapse of the economy, the impact of prolonged isolation on the population at risk of all falling down. There are still moments of defiance and a desire to fight back. Musically it sounds like a long lost Smiths track - top guitars and bass here. All Fall Down is a downbeat epic that might just be the best song GreenCircles have released to date. @GreenCircles74<p></p><p>3) Out Of Reach by The Shop Window</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uGZtd-dlJjg" width="560"></iframe><br /><p>The Shop Window flying in low on sonic-jangle helicopters strafing the ground with licks and beats. Poppy shoegaze, indie guitars aside the song is a tale of the times. Days blurring into each other starring at the four walls whilst dreaming of the pleasures currently denied and damning the wasted days stuck inside. Their debut vinyl single is shipping now with previous release Evacuate on the flip side. Only 29 copies left on their Bandcamp page - tell them I sent you! @TheShopWindow1</p><p></p><p>4) Brightburn by Feverjaw</p><p>An alt-rock band from South Wales who have been rocking hard and releasing singles since Mid 2019. Brightburn EP was released last week and contains 5 top notch songs including an acoustic version of the title track and three other bangers. The chorus is as catchy as an early Ash single and I get the punky vibes of early Manics through the guitars and vocals. @feverjaw </p><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/1SujZnFC0hwhXiEAyqdIy5" width="300"></iframe></div><p>5) She Plays by Cobain Jones</p><p>A wonderful new indie pop tune from 19 year old Cobain Jones. His third single since signing a record deal with Run On Records and Modern Sky. I've just heard it and played it four times in a row so far. @Cobain_Jones</p><p>6) Live Your Dream by Michael Forsyth</p><p>Staying in Scotland - up in Aberdeen we have Michael Forsyth with this stirring song imploring his son/everyone else to chase your dreams, and go for it. This is a real grower and the more I hear it the more I love it. It's emotional - bring tissues! @mforsythmusic</p><p>7) On The Ropes by Apollo Junction</p><p>Synth-heavy rock n roll single On The Ropes continues the hard hitting formula seen on previous smash hit Borderlines - Apollo Junction have fury and tunes and will surely be one of the biggest bands in Britain if they keep this form up. Don't throw in the towel yet, get off the ropes, spit those teeth in the bucket and go claim that title! @ApolloJunction</p><p>8) The Laziest Fella In The Realm by The Poppermost</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jJpcMera5gw" width="560"></iframe><p>The Poppermost is a one man tribute to The Beatles vibe playing original songs. A Piece of The Poppermost EP CD is available on Bandcamp. Similar to The Mariners and Blake Collins in bringing back the 60's sound half a century after they ended. Great video too. @ThePoppermost</p><p>9) Man In The Sky by The Silver Bars </p><p>They have just released the fantastic No Luxuries 4 track EP which includes this among its impressive lineup. The Strokes are obviously a massive influence here - it could be Julian Casablancas singing but the band are from an unspecified North West England town and due to my lack of investigation it will remain a mystery. But check this excellent EP out and let The Silver Bars win you over themselves. @TheSilverBars</p><p>10) Hold On To Yesterday by Mode</p><p>Adelaide Britpop band, Mode with a track from their debut release. This is reminiscent of all the best 90s indie anthems. The influences are proudly on display here - Dodgy, The Seahorses, The Charlatans, Embrace, Shed Seven etc. A very strong start! @Mode06890031</p><p>11) Doing My Thing by Lewca</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SCCK-gGb7GU" width="560"></iframe><p>Taken from the 3 Kids & a Mortgage EP - Lewca grew up in Brixton and now resides in Paris. Lewca hits all the right spots for me, he's got flows, memorable lyrics, "Yeah I dance like Travolta with a stroke" and great influences The Streets, The Clash and Ian Dury. Doing My Thing is a song where he battles with temptation to get wasted whilst trying to hold onto to his job, family, relationships and sanity. If you like this follow him and check out the other tracks. @lewcamusic</p><p>12) Give Your Love by Nice Guy</p><p>An intervention to a girl to ditch her loser boyfriend (and presumably hook up). There are very dark overturns here. The relationship advice is all very good but the vocals and music convey such menace as it rocks out like Dr Teeth and the Electric Mayhem on a bad trip. Uneasy listening you'll want on repeat. @NICEGUYBAND</p><p>13) Paw Paw Patch by Roger Brainard</p><p>US southern gothic country rocker continues the menacing tones. This isn't my usual thing but it lurks somewhere between Johnny Cash and Nick Cave and that is an excellent place to lurk. Roger has been recording for almost forty years in various bands and as a solo artist and his songs draw the listener in and lead them astray. @thebrainard</p><p>14) Fall On Me by Death Cab For Cutie</p><p>A faithful cover of the R.E.M. song from 1986. They do it justice and it lightens the mood of the playlist. Enjoy this brief interlude! @dcfc</p><p>15) Dark Days by Yard Act</p><p>The Dark Days EP combines dark humour with comedic character assassinations of pretentious types, including a plot to bump off an imaginary cheating husband on Peanuts. The sound is close to Gang of Four or contemporaries Working Men's Club with Mike Skinner style narration. Plenty to enjoy here. @YardActBand </p><p>16) Admit You Adore Me by Stash</p><p>Steve and Ashley combined their names and came up with Stash to release this excellent debut banger that swaggers in like the Rolling Stones - undeniably cool! @Steviehaich & @AshStaceyMusic </p><p>17) Jealous Type by The Reytons </p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dIgpwvFXKi8" width="560"></iframe><p>The Reytons bringing back thundering drums, big guitars and dish out another sonic battering. Superb time travelling video as well. @TheReytons</p><p>18)The One by The Underclass</p><p> First release from Stoke's Underclass in 10 months and The One is an instant Britpop classic. Expect to hear this sung out by crowds in future festival settings. Pure Class! @UnderclassStoke</p><p>19) Loose Canyon by The Gabriels </p><p>The melodic jangle-pop from The Gabriels is a real treat and wash over you like waves lapping your frazzled brain. A pleasant comedown which picks up the tempo towards the end. @TheGabrielsUK</p><p>20) There Before Time by The Mariners</p><p>The Second single taken from the forthcoming Second Album by Nottingham's finest sea-going minstrels. There Before Time is the lead song from the new 3 track release by The Mariners. It's a homecoming song, who's narrator is looking forward to a reunion with a lover. @TheMarinersBand</p><p><br /></p><p>And Finally... The #Indie100Cup </p><p>If that isn't enough for one month, then watch this #Indie100Cup video and follow me on twitter for daily recommendations @oldindiekid1</p><p> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/90jp14ePNdc" width="560"></iframe> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9505269 115.8604572-62.950030999947906 80.7042072 -0.95102280005209394 151.01670719999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-13709611258273183882021-01-01T12:25:00.020+08:002021-01-01T12:36:49.602+08:00Mixtape Jan 2021<p>Happy New Year Music Lovers. </p><p>2020 was a bugger of a year but it still had the best soundtrack and there is no reason to suggest that the quality will dip in 2021 if you know where to look. </p><p>Spoiler Alert - I know where to look. This blog recommends 20 songs - some released in the last few hours and others released way back in 2020. All are great and I urge you to follow, promote and support the artists. Buy some mechandise, physical or virtual music and when safe to attend gigs go and see them live. Remember to support the band you want to survive. No need to buy any Simply Red T-Shirts at this stage!</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0JtSonTmM4E5SOtyS5rkQk?si=U-NqvBjeQQKKiRE9lBYreA">Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Jan 2021 Spotify Playlist</a> </u></div>
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmxryQNDtbM/X-6I5TGWLsI/AAAAAAAALzA/DhaRuthBzpAUoC1wEAlWfxBBOpl2zkVagCNcBGAsYHQ/s1200/a3597126315_10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1195" data-original-width="1200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmxryQNDtbM/X-6I5TGWLsI/AAAAAAAALzA/DhaRuthBzpAUoC1wEAlWfxBBOpl2zkVagCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/a3597126315_10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>1) Kingpin by A Month Of Sundays </p><p>Rock N Roll from Perthshire Scotland that reached me in Perth Australia and instantly blew me away. I had to play it on repeat and buy the EP from Bandcamp within minutes of hearing it. There are 3 songs on Fat Sam’s Grand Slam EP - New track Comes Back Down is like a thrash jangle take on Some Might Say. The debut single Kingpin released in July 2019 is a rocker and We Got Something Outta Nothing previously released on a charity compilation has nods towards poppy Velvet Underground with a Roses outro. A mix of 60s, Madchester, punk and J&MC influences make A Month Of Sundays one of the most exciting new prospects for 2021. Here is the link to buy their debut EP <a href="https://a-m-o-s.bandcamp.com/album/fat-samsgrand-slam">https://a-m-o-s.bandcamp.com/album/fat-samsgrand-slam</a> Follow them on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/Month_OfSundays">@Month_OfSundays</a> </p>
<p>2) MDMA by Jonny Ash</p><p>Jonny Ash are based in Wrexham in North Wales who released their debut single in October. MDMA is the final song from the 4 track Blurry Vision debut EP released a week before Christmas. This excellent EP includes both Eclipse and Rosies singles and two new songs Brother and MDMA. Phenomenal guitar work here across these four tracks. Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/jonnyashband">@jonnyashband</a> </p>
<p>3) Wildfire by Are We Static</p><p>I was introduced to the music of Are We Static this week and fell hard for the Wildfire single that came out in October. Are We Static have been around for a few years having released their debut album in 2017 and the second album Accepting The Universe, in November 2020. They have an indie space rock vibe. Wonderful songs reminiscent of Muse or Feeder in their heyday. Follow them on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/AreWeStatic">@AreWeStatic </a></p> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZdjxutT6ziI" width="560"></iframe>
<p>4) Everyone Loves Janet by Cigarillo</p><p>A Britpop band from Adelaide, who appear on South Australian End of the Pier Records label. This is their debut single - a double virtual A side with Rtl2. The sound is somewhere between The Buggles and Supergrass and it’s a fun romp. </p><p>5) Downfall by The Drift</p><p>The Drift are a new band from Birmingham and Downfall is the second release. A follow up to their debut single Going Up. Downfall isn’t the comedown thankfully and it rocks harder than the debut. Downfall’s message is to avoid over dependence on social media and chasing the stars who will never save us. As Noel Gallagher once put it, “Please don’t put your life in the hands of a rock n roll band who’ll throw it all away”. Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/theDriftUK">@theDriftUK </a> </p>
<p>6) Queen of Liverpool by Vela Incident </p><p>A story of a holiday heartbreak on the latest excellent single from Welsh band Vela Incident. They originally formed in and gigged in the late Nineties but never recorded anything at the time. During the lockdown they hooked up virtually and began recording their old songs using mobile phone apps. The band have had to exist in the virtual world and the current lineup hasn’t actually physically met! There is new material coming soon and perhaps an album in 2021. Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/IncidentVela">@IncidentVela</a></p> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kiylBY2UKPs" width="560"></iframe>
<p>7) TV Fantasy by Joe Astley & The Wallgate Band.</p><p>Joe’s Anthem for the North was awarded the prestigious #1 position as Best Song of 2020 by myself and @mobytanner in our #Indie100 countdown and we are both convinced there is a bright future ahead for Joe. <u style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://youtu.be/VjrWnXo0zoE?t=2229">Joe Astley's Acceptance Speech</a></u></p><p>That future starts here with a New Years Day release of his debut single with the Wallgate Band. TV Fantasy is a blast of Wigan adrenaline to kick start the New Year. Great lyrics as you’ld always expect from Joe - my only gripe is it fades out too soon. Perhaps the album version will be longer? Until then there is always the repeat button and I urge you to use it! Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/jastleyofficial">@jastleyofficial </a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/thewallgateband">@thewallgateband </a></p>
<p>8) Seeing The Life by The Young</p><p>Heavy ominous rock from The Young who hail from Staines. This is their fourth single and they have been together since 2016 but this is the first I’ve heard of them. Having just played their previous singles I am now up to speed and following them on the socials. Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/youngbanduk">@youngbanduk </a> </p><p>9) All That I’ve Ever Seen by The Institutes</p><p>The sixth release from The Institutes - another great band that I only discovered this month. Spotify tells me I discovered over a thousand new artists in the last 12 months so I am trying to stay on top of new music but there is so much of it. The rhythm section is really tight here - it opens like a Mid-80’s R.E.M. and ends as a furious singalong anthem. Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/theinstitutesUK">@theinstitutesUK </a></p>
<p>10) Take Us Higher by Oh! Paulo</p><p>The guitars here sound like they came straight off the Joshua Tree and the lyrics are about the power of music to lift you up. Oh! Paulo is from the Scottish musical hotbed of Aberdeen. Surely it is time that Aberdeen and Wigan were twinned! Top bloke - give <a href="https://twitter.com/OhPauloMusic">@OhPauloMusic </a> a follow on Twitter.</p> <div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/0JtSonTmM4E5SOtyS5rkQk" width="300"></iframe></div><p>11) Revolution Son by Shiva and the Hazards</p><p>A mixture of shoegaze and glam rock - perhaps a new genre is born #glamgaze - you heard it here first kids. Shiva and the Hazards hail from Melbourne and are working on their debut album. They toured with Cast and Ride in 2019 and Mark Gardener mixed this single. Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/shivahazards">@shivahazards </a> </p><p>12) Shimmer by Macroscope </p><p>Another beautiful song from Macroscope to lose yourself in its intricacies. A tale of unrequited love told in widescreen with the orchestral soundtrack playing loud and clear. (Bring tissues). Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/macroscopeBand">@macroscopeBand </a></p><div>13) Tears by Little Sparrow </div><p>An amazing song and an unforgettable video - Little Sparrow has been compared to both David Bowie and Kate Bush. Little Sparrow will soon be Massive Sparrow so enjoy the music and spread the word. Follow on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/uklittlesparrow">@uklittlesparrow </a> </p> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/grNgRgBwXlc" width="560"></iframe>
<p>14) I Wanna Be Like You by Psychedelic Porn Crumpets </p><p>Perth psychedelic rockers with a cover of the Jungle Book classic song recorded on Triple J’s Like A Version segment. The lads throw the kitchen sink at this - tremendous fun! Follow them at <a href="https://twitter.com/porncrumpets">@porncrumpets </a> </p><p>15) Hungry Like The Wolf by Darklove</p><p>An indie supergroup containing members of Gorillaz and Moby with their debut release - a cover of Duran Duran. Thanks again to indie influencer <a href="https://twitter.com/macaronpurpl">@macaronpurpl </a> for this find. Follow the supergroup at <a href="https://twitter.com/darkloveband1">@darkloveband1 </a> </p><p>16) If Only by Dean Dovey</p><p>Dean Dovey released three singles in 2020 and If Only is my favourite of these. This song has cinematic qualities to it. Its an emotional tale of regret and reminds me of a Bond theme. Give <a href="https://twitter.com/dinodill">@dinodill</a> a follow.</p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sntDijmb6cY" width="560"></iframe>
<p>17) Weird Fishes by Leanne La Havas</p><p>This was recommended to me recently - a haunting cover of a Radiohead song from In Rainbows. Leanne appears to be a major star with millions of listeners but as I spend my time looking for emerging artists and unsigned indie bands I have no idea what is popular these days. Sometimes it’s nice to discover international pop stars years after everyone else! </p>
<p>18) The Less I know The Better by Kamino Royale</p><p>Northern Irish singer who has only been publishing music as a creative release since lockdown. This is a brilliant cover of Tame Impala’s 2015 hit single. Follow him at <a href="https://twitter.com/kaminoroyale">@kaminoroyale </a> </p>
<p>19) All Day and Night by The Strifes</p><p>A power trio of indie rockers from Southampton with their scorching debut single. Follow at <a href="https://twitter.com/theStrifes_">@theStrifes_ </a> </p>
<p>20) Dear Genevieve by The Mariners </p><p>The problem with doing a monthly blog is the fast pace of releases leaves some songs waiting four weeks for a mention. A touching song written about his relationship with a young daughter. Backed by two b-sides - Sorry Suzanne and Are We Nearly There Yet? And with a second album is planned for 2021 it’s never too late to #GetOnTheBoat! at <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMarinersBand">@TheMarinersBand </a> </p> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gwiqTsRO4-0" width="560"></iframe>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9505269 115.8604572-60.260760736178845 80.7042072 -3.6402930638211544 151.01670719999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7275961675625322268.post-77370936641505064772020-12-23T13:51:00.002+08:002020-12-23T13:51:36.960+08:00Albums of the Year 2019Here is Old Indie Kid's Top Ten Albums of the Year 2019<div>I found this sitting in my drafts from December 2019 and it was never published until now. </div><div><br />
Being a top social media influencer if any of the bands featured want to send me any free merchandise or VIP concert tickets I will continue to promote your careers. ;-)<br />
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10) <b>Days of the Bagnold Summer </b>by <b>Belle & Sebastian </b><br />
I understand that this is the soundtrack to an unreleased comedy film directed by Will from the Inbetweeners about a boy living with his mother set in the 1990s. This explains the return to their original nineties sound and the inclusion of a couple of re-recorded tracks but it is mostly new material. Top Track: "Get Me Away From Here I'm Dying".<br />
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9) <b>A Bath Full Of Ecstasy </b>by <b>Hot Chip</b><br />
Great songs with catchy hooks that grow on you like an unpleasant fungal infection but leave you grinning from ear to ear. Top Track: "Melody Of Love".<br />
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8) <b>Hot Motion</b> by <b>Temples</b><br />
They remain devoted to replicating 1960's psychedelic pop and they are unrivaled in the Chamber Psych genre. (Yes Chamber Psych. Try and keep up). Top Track: "You're Either On Something".<br />
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7) <b>Encore </b>by <b>The Specials</b><br />
Social commentary in an age that needs it when too many artists appear to avoid it. I only know their early material so was surprised by how good this modern album was. Top Track: "Embarrassed By You".<b> </b><br />
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6) <b>Midnight Love, Vol 2 </b>by <b>Sloan Peterson</b><br />
Only 8 songs on this release but all killer and no filler. Beautiful vocals from Sloan singing classic pop songs accompanied by an Aussie garage band. Sounds like Lana Del Rey fronting the Vaccines. Top Track: "Our Love"<br />
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5) <b>Lux Prima</b> by <b>Karen O & Danger Mouse</b><br />
I always preferred the ballads from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Karen O has a great voice when she isn't being a shrieking punk rocker. This album is her best work so far. Switching a NYC punk band with the funky genius of Danger Mouse has elevated the quality of the music from the gutter to the coffee table. Top Track: "Lux Prima"<br />
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4) <b>Weezer</b> <b>(Teal Album)</b> by <b>Weezer</b><br />
A covers album where Weezer manage to interpret classic songs faithfully whilst the album retains the homogeneous sound of a Weezer album. Weezer's Teal album contains covers of famous songs originally released by Toto, Eurythmics, Black Sabbath, Michael Jackson, The Turtles, Ben E King, TLC, ELO, Tears for Fears and A-ha. Top Track: "Africa".<br />
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3) <b>Apple Crumble</b> by <b>Winston Surfshirt</b><br />
Laid back funky hip hop beats with Winston crooning away. They sound like the Fun Lovin' Criminals if they chilled out and moved to a beach-side suburb in Australia. Top Track: "Make A Move".<br />
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2) <b>No Geography </b>by <b>The Chemical Brothers</b><br />
A solid dance album that ranks alongside their 90's albums in big beats, squelchy 303s, use of samples and the overall consistency and intensity makes this the best dance album of the year. Top Track: "Got To Keep On".<br />
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1) <b> Smooth Big Cat</b> by <b>Dope Lemon</b><br />
A hazy narcotic trip from Angus Stone. Top Track: "Salt N Pepper".<br /><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Honorable mentions to bands that missed out in the top ten - Ride, Methyl Ethel, The Black Keys & Kaiser Chiefs.</span></div>Old Indie Kidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800344551414913827noreply@blogger.com0Perth WA, Australia-31.9505269 115.86045719999993-32.8119469 114.56956369999993 -31.0891069 117.15135069999992