The Shop Window

Album Review

The State of Being Human

The Shop Window

reviewed by Old Indie Kid 

Release date: 25th June 2021 on Vinyl and CD and a later release date on digital platforms. 

Pre-order a physical copy today before they sell out

https://theshopwindow.bandcamp.com/

https://www.spinoutproductions.com/shop/

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. 

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.

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.

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.

Mannequin Lies

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.  

Ride It (Whilst You Can) 

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.  

Out of Reach 

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.  

Break Down Walls 

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.

Calling Out

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.

Disengage The Robots 

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.  

Flags

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”.  

Evacuate

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.  

2nd Book

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.

Sad Eyes

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.

I Realise 

A love song about the dependency between a couple separated by distance.  The guitars are set to understated Johnny Marr.

Jack’s Lullaby

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.

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! 

The advertising campaign alone is worthy of an award so kudus to whoever created these brilliant teaser videos.

Mixtape May 21

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.

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape May 2021 Spotify Playlist 

1) The Vanishing by Dunkie

This band are new to me but they have been working on their craft for several years in Welsh valleys.  Dunkie create ethereal soundscapes and draw listeners into their world.  This isn’t music for the indie disco but perfect for headphones, dark nights and swooning.  The new 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.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.  

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 https://dunkie.bandcamp.com/ 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.  

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.

2) Rewind by Redwood 

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.

3)  Puzzles by Michael Robert Murphy

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.       

4) Hide and Seek by Dictator 

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

5) All My Worries by Super 8

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.   https://trip8.bandcamp.com/

6) Ye'll Dae What Yer Telt Or Else by Fire Up The Sun

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.      

7) Get What You Deserve by The Kynd

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.       

8) Losing My Mind by Louis and the Shakes

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.   

9) (You’ve Gotta) Shout It Out by DDE’s

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. 

10) Through The Storm by Paul Nixon

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. https://paulnixon.bandcamp.com/

11) Touching Distance by GreenCircles 

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... https://greencircles1.bandcamp.com/

12) Clusterfuck by Byron Smith

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.  https://byronsmith.bandcamp.com/

13) One Shot Remix by The Shed Project & MC Tunes

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). 

14) Frontier Psychiatrist (Mario Caldato Jr's 85% Remix) by The Avalanches 

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!

15) Fall For You (Chill UNE Remix) by Crimson Bloom

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 https://crimsonbloom.bandcamp.com/ 

16) Sink or Swim by Mark Sharp & the Bicycle Thieves

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. https://marksharpmusic.bandcamp.com/music

17) Hold Me In Your Arms by Shark Star

A tear-stained personal lament dealing with his feelings related to the death of his father.  This is wonderful and moving song.  

18) I Said That You Looked Fine by Alex James

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.     

19) Anything You Want by The Utopiates

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.   https://theutopiates.bandcamp.com/

20) No Way Of Knowing by Moonlight Parade

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. https://moonlightparade1.bandcamp.com/

  

That's it for another month.  Keep an eye on MobyTanner's Rebirth of Cool TV YouTube Channel 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...

The #DAFTPOM Show Podcasts  

Laters Innovators 

xxx 

Mixtape April 21

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

Boggs Holler Curiosity Shop Episode Two 

So the pressure's on to write a decent blog this month!  

With my fortnightly DAFT POM show on InYourEars and my monthly roundup #Indie100Cup with Michael Tanner on his Rebirth of Cool TV YouTube Channel I'm getting to my blog later and later each month but the new music doesn't stop and neither will I.  

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. 

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape April 2021 Spotify Playlist 

1) Joker by The Haciendas @HaciendasThe  

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. 

2) Joker by Reclaim Vienna @Reclaim_V  

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. 

3) Pink Lunettes by Pond @PONDband 

 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. 

4) Spinning Me Out by Jet City Sports Club linktr.ee/jetcitysportsclub

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!

5) Go Away by The Tazers @TheTazers

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. 

6) Faster Chopper Boogie by Acid's Trip linktr.ee/acidstrip

"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. 

7)Text Back Blues by Jackson Lucitt @JacksonLucitt

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.  

8) My Port Talbot Town by Vela Incident  @IncidentVela

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. 

9) The Town You're From by Lucy Gaffney @Lucy__Gaffney

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. 

10) Overflow by Emperor of Ice Cream @TheEmperorsCork

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.  

11) Darkside by 3 Little Wolves 

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 @3LittleWolves1 a follow. 

12)Pink River by Nice Biscuit  @nicebiscuitband

Back with new material, it's Nice Biscuit, Brisbane's psychedelic garage rockers bringing catchy harmonies and the wigged out tunes that Australians demand. 

13) It's Mine, It's Ours, It's Yours by No Expectations linktr.ee/No_expectations

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? 

14) Things Just Come and Go by Alex Spencer linktr.ee/alexspencer

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. 

15) Darkness In Your Eyes by The Heavy North @theheavynorth

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. 

16) Frank by Garage Sale linktr.ee/garagesaleband

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. 

17) Better by Radium Dolls linktr.ee/radiumdolls

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. 

18) Slow Burn by Perve Endings linktr.ee/perve_endings

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! 

19) April Nights by Shag Rock @shagrockmusics

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. 

20) That'll Do by Mark Frith 

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 linktr.ee/Markfrith and join him on his journey.

 

Mixtape March 2021

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.  I enjoyed writing it and it served as a musical diary of what I was digging at the time so I carried on. 

But when @AprylRae & @penhitspaper recorded a radio show Boggs Holler Curiousity Shop - Premier 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.  

I’ve kept the blog format of 20 fairly new songs unchanged despite lean months or bumper crops of tunes.  Occasionally it was hard to fill it, but the usual problem is what to exclude each month.  I always enjoyed creating cassette mixtapes for my friends and playlists were the digital successor.  Describing the music with words was a new challenge with the blog but one I enjoyed.

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.  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.  Those 90s reviewers would influence what I bought.  I didn’t always agree with them but if a reviewer panned a new album then I wouldn’t risk buying it unheard.

Today we have a different set of problems - the internet’s streaming sites have made music free, highly available and offer an unlimited choice.  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.  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.  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.  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. 

So that’s why I’m still blogging, and if you’re as hooked as me then you’ve  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.  Given I still blog on a monthly basis then I need to pick just 20 songs from the hundreds I hear each month.  My 2021 playlist is over 19 hours long already.  So I pick some of the highlights here to promote them to anyone who will read and listen.

Well before I write an essay, I should get on with the business of the day.  So what is oldindiekid pushing this month?  

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape March 2021 Spotify Playlist 

1) Nice Try by Jessica Luise

This song has really grown on me over the last six weeks.  Nice Try is an awesome composition and a perfect example of blissful jangle pop.  Jessica has an angelic voice and it’s so well produced too - a truly classic song.

2) Everybody’s Gotta Get Somewhere by My Mate John 

A prolific London artist who has just released Artefact his fourth album in two years.  This track sounds like The Cure if they had emerged on Sarah Records label in 1989.  

3) Nufflink By Lewca 

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.  It’s an autobiographical tale of crime and punishment as told by an 8 year old receiving frozen goods.  Lewca is a engaging storyteller who raps and snarls through his latest batch of cathartic personal tales and unhinged bangers.  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 Diggers Factory 

4) Sally Brown By Ollie Winder 

Ollie is another singer songwriter based in Lancashire with a voice that unintentionally sounds like Ian Brown.  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.

5) Nothing To Die For by The John Mitchie Collective 

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.  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.  

6) Touch of Venice by The Moon Kids 

New 5 track EP Ride With The Hurricanes is a fantastic collection from the Scottish rock n rollers in the vein of the BRMC.  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.

7) The Mushroom Song by Felix & The Sunsets 

Blues swamp rock tune breaking on through to the other side after a shroom brew. 

   

8) Twisting The Knife Away by Enola Fall 

Australian band with an amazing tune  that puts the listener on edge as the pounding percussion, War On Drugs style guitars and synths swirl around and within your mind.  You think the songs is ending but it’s a short lull as the pressure builds again until a sudden stop.  When it ends you can feel the pressure lift and notice your heartbeats racing.  This ain’t background music - this truly effects! Available on Bandcamp.com

9) Supermarket Sweep by Uncle Kid

Mesmerizing stream of consciousness lyrics spoken by a talented new artist from Scotland. The music is unnerving soundscapes with trip hop beats.  Tricky is an obvious reference point  but also The Arab Strap and Underworld.  This is taken from his recent Indistinct Chatter EP.

 

10) Mothers Against Christian Rock by Fire Up The Sun  

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.  A very dry sense of humour is displayed on the eight tracks available on the TAR & Unmasked EPs.  Indulge yourself.

11) Dirty Gonzo by Psyence

An infectious foot tapping monster of a tune with propulsive rhythm and heavy psychedelic guitars swirling around.  Psyence have supported local favourites of mine - the Psychedelic Porn Crumpets and the two bands are well paired.  

12) Psycho Killer by The Lottery Winners

I love a good cover and The Lottery Winners take on this classic from Talking Heads is up with the best of them.

13) Shame On You by Revivalry 

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.

14) Birthing Bell by Lines of Flight 

Debut single from this Leeds duo who plan to release a song each month.  Electronic ethereal waves of sound lap at your ears.  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. 

15) Blind by Lyon Tide 

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.

 

16) The Boy In The Doorway by Hightown Pirates 

Second release of the year penned by Pirate Captain Simon Mason. A harrowing emotionally charged song on the subject of homelessness and addiction.  Simon is reaching out to those who have replaced him on the streets.  The orchestration here is amazing.  The Hightown Pirates are taking vinyl pre-orders for their second album over on Bandcamp and will be playing gigs later in the year.

17) Found Ourselves by Joe Adhemar

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".

18) Drop Your Arms by Senses

Huge indie rock tune from the boys from Coventry.  I can see this band threatening the mainstream.  Don’t forget us when you’re Stadium Rockers on World Tours! Is this the best dream you’ve ever had? 

19) It's Alright by Paul Nixon

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.

20) Feel My Love by The Shed Project 

Roy’s hitting the high notes on the latest and greatest song emanating out of the Bolton Shed.  It’s a beauty of a song and I know it well loved by the Twitter musical community.  Feel My Love received the most votes of any of the 32 songs entered in the #Indie100Cup.  Really looking forward to hearing the next release - the long awaited One Shot Remix with MC Tunes.  Bring it on!

 

I recently presented my first radio show in 25 years - The DAFT POM Show  is now  available as a podcast.

There is a great weekend of music coming up on Inyourearsmusic.com on 13-14 March.  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 will be an Acoustic Live Aid - so tune in and cough up! 

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Feb '21

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).

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Feb 2021 Spotify Playlist 

1) For All Lost Souls by Vela Incident

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

2)  All Fall Down by GreenCircles 

     

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

3) Out Of Reach by The Shop Window

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

4) Brightburn by Feverjaw

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 

5)  She Plays by Cobain Jones

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

6) Live Your Dream by Michael Forsyth

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

7) On The Ropes by Apollo Junction

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

8) The Laziest Fella In The Realm by The Poppermost

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

9) Man In The Sky by The Silver Bars 

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

10) Hold On To Yesterday by Mode

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

11) Doing My Thing by Lewca

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

12) Give Your Love by Nice Guy

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

13) Paw Paw Patch by Roger Brainard

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

14) Fall On Me by Death Cab For Cutie

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

15) Dark Days by Yard Act

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 

16) Admit You Adore Me by Stash

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       

17) Jealous Type by The Reytons 

The Reytons bringing back thundering drums, big guitars and dish out another sonic battering.  Superb time travelling video as well. @TheReytons

18)The One by The Underclass

 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

19) Loose Canyon by The Gabriels 

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

20) There Before Time by The Mariners

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

And Finally... The  #Indie100Cup 

If that isn't enough for one month, then watch this #Indie100Cup video and follow me on twitter for daily recommendations @oldindiekid1

   

Mixtape Jan 2021

Happy New Year Music Lovers. 

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.  

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!

Old Indie Kid's Mixtape Jan 2021 Spotify Playlist 

1) Kingpin by A Month Of Sundays 

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 https://a-m-o-s.bandcamp.com/album/fat-samsgrand-slam  Follow them on Twitter at @Month_OfSundays

2) MDMA by Jonny Ash

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 @jonnyashband

3) Wildfire by Are We Static

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 @AreWeStatic

4) Everyone Loves Janet by Cigarillo

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.  

5) Downfall by The Drift

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 @theDriftUK

6) Queen of Liverpool by Vela Incident 

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 @IncidentVela

7) TV Fantasy by Joe Astley & The Wallgate Band.

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.  Joe Astley's Acceptance Speech

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 @jastleyofficial and @thewallgateband

8) Seeing The Life by The Young

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 @youngbanduk  

9) All That I’ve Ever Seen by The Institutes

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 @theinstitutesUK

10) Take Us Higher by Oh! Paulo

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 @OhPauloMusic a follow on Twitter.

11) Revolution Son by Shiva and the Hazards

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 @shivahazards

12) Shimmer by Macroscope 

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 @macroscopeBand

13)  Tears by Little Sparrow 

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 @uklittlesparrow

14) I Wanna Be Like You by Psychedelic Porn Crumpets 

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 @porncrumpets

15) Hungry Like The Wolf by Darklove

An indie supergroup containing members of Gorillaz and Moby with their debut release - a cover of Duran Duran.  Thanks again to indie influencer @macaronpurpl for this find. Follow the supergroup at @darkloveband1

16) If Only by Dean Dovey

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 @dinodill a follow.

17) Weird Fishes by Leanne La Havas

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! 

18) The Less I know The Better by Kamino Royale

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 @kaminoroyale

19) All Day and Night by The Strifes

A power trio of indie rockers from Southampton with their scorching debut single.  Follow at @theStrifes_

20) Dear Genevieve by The Mariners 

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 @TheMarinersBand