Author Archives: Olivia

AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS @ O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester. 22nd October 2025.

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I first saw Amyl and The Sniffers live back in 2019 when they played their first headline Manchester show at the Deaf Institute, and from being a fan of theirs for a while beforehand- I can tell you that excitement has been there every time I’ve seen them live. Following that show, it was the Albert Hall then it was the Academy last year. And last night, it was probably the worst venue in Manchester (if you like getting squashed and twatted in the face, it’s fine) the Victoria Warehouse. However, as awful as the venue is- it was perfect for the band. The sound was great and to see THAT many people enjoy one of the best bands around was a joy to see. It was one of the most diverse crowds ever, and that shows the power of music. The media will do all it can to divide people, but music does the opposite.

They played 21 songs, and I reckon they could have played 21 more if possible. Imagine if they did Stole My Pushbike or 70s Street Munchies just one more time!! I’d have lost my mind. They opened with Balaclava Lover Boogie which is the only way to open a set. They walked on to the stage to probably the best dance song of the 90s (I was 5 when it came out, and I was obsessed!) Gypsy Woman by Crystal Waters. What a song to walk on to! Everyone was singing along, and I think that pretty much set the tone for the rest of the night.

A large portion of songs came from last year’s exceptional release, Cartoon Darkness and when you hear these songs live you really pick up on how important they are and also, how important this band really is. Every band last night (the support was SO good) used their platform to rightfully speak up about Palestine and how a ceasefire evidently is NOT happening, and we all know why. That’s how you use your platform, and more must do this. What I love about Amy Taylor is that she speaks about politics and how the world is and calls out the unfairness and the shitshow of it all in a way that you connect with. For me, she’s the best around and I think she is someone young people will look up to and start their own band or maybe just think, “Yep- that’s me!”

Every single song is greeted with this echo of noise that makes you realise just how loved this band are. If I could pinpoint a reason as to why I love them so, I really don’t think I could. There are so many reasons. Declan is one of the coolest and slickest guitarists around, Bryce beats the shit out of the drums and the sheer energy he has is a perfect match to Amy’s, Gus is the bass player every bass player wishes they were. They’re all in their own zone but together on stage, and it is such a joy to watch.

They rip through every single song, and it’s met with such love and devotion, and they give the same back. The band have been together nearly a decade (next year is 10 years) and they sound like they’ve been together longer, and with their strong sound and bond- I reckon they’ll be a band like Garbage and tour forever and just get stronger over the years. Their live shows are such a phenomenal experience, and you will always want more. The atmosphere they create is heavenly and you can’t help but be in awe of all their energy. You can absolutely tell they love doing this and they adore each other, and when you see this- it makes you believe in the music even more.

There are tender moments in the set, and it’s when Amy sings Knifey you can really hear every single raw emotion possible. They also play a sped up version of Big Dreams which just gives it more urgency and bite to it. When I first heard this one, it broke me but hearing it like this just makes it bigger in its own way. Seeing people lose themselves (and drinks, clothing, and shoes) to songs like Hertz, Guided By Angels and Chewing Gum is just a gorgeous sight to see, and it just shows again, how loved they are.

They get better each time I see them, and to see them go from playing a venue that holds 260 people to 3,500 is WILD. I know they play festivals etc, but this is them, on their own. Working their arses off and showing us all why Punk isn’t dead, and it will never die. They have such a solid and strong sound, and I honestly hope we get bands come out and say THIS is the band that have influenced them.

Amyl and The Sniffers are easily one the best and most exciting bands of our time, and their live shows are something that everyone needs to experience at least twice in their lifetime, then make it a habit to be fair! Also, having 3,500 scream the words “Wank! Wank! Wank!” during Jerkin’ will ALWAYS be wonderful.

Hearing songs like Maggot, U Should Not Be Doing That and GFY is big venues sounds just as divine as it does in small venues, which just shows that the band can, regardless of the size of the venue, beautifully rip it apart.

So, there you have it, as expected- the show last night was a true masterclass in all a live show should be. My hatred for Viccy Warehouse will always be there but my love for Amyl and The Sniffers will only ever grow. It was a truly special show, and they are so deserving of every ounce of success that they continue to receive. They are kicking open doors for every and anyone and are being the voice for those who may be scared to speak up. I’d happily go to their shows every single night if I could because the energy, they all bring is everything the world needs right now.

BRUISE CONTROL: Gone To Ground.

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One of the best bands around have a new single out, and I’m going to give you some reasons or thoughts as to why it may just well be the best thing they’ve done….so far!

My love for Bruise Control runs deep. Their live shows are truly something else, and I think everyone needs to experience it at least three times in their life to really understand it. For me, seeing them support Amyl and The Sniffers a few years ago at the Albert Hall still remains one of my favourite shows of all time. Their set felt like it was THEIR headline show, and I reckon it’s only a matter of time before these beautiful punks sell out venues like that. Until then, just make the most of them playing small venues.

Their tour starts in a few days’ time, and if you’ve not got a ticket yet then time is running out. As are tickets. Act fast!

So, the new single Gone To Ground is a typical Bruise Control anthem. It’s loud, it’s honest and it will smack you right in the chops. It’s the band at their very best, but even if they were at their worst- they’d still be the best. I just absolutely love this band and what they stand for. They ooze acceptance, community and calling shit out when it’s wrong. They are easily one of this city’s best bands and they make you proud to live here. Alright so the song isn’t even at the 3 minute mark, but those few short minutes absolutely nail that glorious Bruise Control sound. It’s heavy, it’s in your face and it’s loud. They make the kind of music that needs to be seen live, and trust me, their live shows are just as rowdy as they are on record. Their sound comes alive at their shows, and it feels like you are watching caged animals finally run free- it’s just a joy to watch and be part of. As a band, you will never find a tighter sound and Gone To Ground totally encompasses just how solid they are as a band. The drums? Insane. The bass? Slick as you like. The guitar? Will deafen you. The vocals? Vital. Put it all together, and you’ve got Bruise Control at their VERY best. Obviously they just get better, but this shows that they cannot be stopped. Or tamed. I just really fucking love this band so much and I feel this is what we need right now. I cannot wait to see them at the end of the month. I just adore them. Inject this song right into my veins and eardrums thank you PLEASE.

Gone To Ground perfectly describes how crap the world has gotten; from politicians lying to flag shaggers trying to divide communities. It’s a shit place to be, but there are people out there who know it’s all wrong and have some hope it may get better. The world needs more love and compassion. Go to a Bruise Control, and you’ll feel all the love and compassion you could need at that moment. I mean you may accidentally lose a shoe or have beer thrown on you, but the sentiment is there!

We all know the world is fucked, but when we have bands like Bruise Control speaking out and letting it all out- you feel less alone and, in a way, you have a bit of reassurance that it may get it better. You need hope because what else do you have? Gone To Ground is one of their strongest songs they’ve released, and you just know it will RIP on this tour. They’re playing some solid venues on this tour, including one of my all time favourites (and underrated) venues here in Manchester- SOUP on the 31st.

Tickets are available here: http://www.bruisecontrol.co.uk

*Photo by: @neilworthington_musicphoto

PINS @ Oporto, Leeds. 10th October 2025.

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Last night, I think I may have been in the world’s hottest venue. It was also one of the most cramped venues ever too. Was the sweat and small space worth it? Absolutely! PINS are currently touring the 10 year anniversary of their record, Wild Nights. I remember being at the album launch for it 10 years ago, and to hear the songs a decade later and them still feel brand new was so cool! It just shows how great the band are.

Now, I’ve seen PINS play about 10 times over thew years and last night as my first time seeing them play in a venue in the north. Location isn’t everything, but Oporto was a great place to see them. PINS have a sound that’s unlike anything else, and when you see them live you really feel the music and can really appreciate their sound. Sadly, there were the usual pervy men in the front zooming in on body parts and filming the band- especially during the last song when a few of the crowd were on stage. I used to see this happen years ago in London, so it looks like this breed of human sadly occurs everywhere. It’s just wrong, and it makes me so mad. Imagine if someone was doing it to their daughter? Idiots. Anyway, back to how solid the show was!

I honestly don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone on stage with as much energy as Lois. It was so cool to see that same energy from years ago is still there. I really don’t think anyone loves being on that stage as much as she does; a real joy to see. Faith’s voice is as powerful as ever, and on delicate songs like Got It Bad you can really hear the power in her voice. The addition of Abbi on the drums adds some extra loudness to the sound and Kyoko may be one of the slickest bassists around. Is it the best PINS have ever sounded? Of course. The tightness of the band is there and hearing how Wild Nights has developed and got stronger over the past decade is a real joy to witness.

Every song off the record is played along with new single, I’ll Be Yours and the classics- Serve The Rich and of course, Girls Like Us. For me, hearing Dazed By You (which in my humble and biased opinion, is one of the best modern love songs around) live again just made me so happy. I genuinely thought I was going to cry out of happiness hearing it live again but instead, I just sang along and had a lovely time. There is something about a PINS show that leaves you feeling like you can take on the world. There are delicate moments in the set (Got It Bad and If Only) but there are these sensational ferocious parts where you know you are absolutely in the presence of one of the best bands to have ever come from Manchester. I love the rage in Too Little Too Late that I just love so much. You can proper shout a long to this, and I think it’s partly why my throat hurts today! House Of Love and Oh Lord are divine live too. The whole record is just timeless, and I’m so glad they have celebrated it by putting on these shows.

Although this was my possibly 11th time seeing PINS, it really felt like I was seeing them for the first time last night. It’d been too long, and I hope they play more shows now because they are one of the most exciting bands to see live, and I just adore them so much. I love how when you’ve loved a band for so long, you can really hear how their sound has grown- especially in a live setting. The celebration of Wild Nights was a thing of beauty, and hopefully we can celebrate it again in another 10 years. Although, I’ll probably need to be seated for that!

The shows ends with the anthem that is, Girls Like Us. Faith brings a number of people onto the worlds smallest stage for such a big moment. Seeing the love and happiness of everyone on the stage summed up exactly what PINS are about and why, although they are criminally underrated, they are one of the best around. No one will ever do it like PINS and last night totally proved it.

One final thing- they are selling posters on the tour for Kinder Relief to support the people of Palestine. Go to the show and buy a poster or two. Anything left over will be up on their Bandcamp page after the tour.

NoSo: When Are You Leaving?

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Sometimes you hear a song, you find a band or singer and you immediately feel like you’ve found your version of home. You’ve found someone who says everything you wish you could and maybe that person is all you wish you were brave enough to be. You find this piece of music, and everything that had been missing is right there. Something clicks, and maybe you were absolutely fine all along. You just needed something like this to pull you through or to essentially, be a mirror. When I first started listening to NoSo a while ago, that’s exactly what happened. Then I saw them live, and my world got flipped and everything clicked. Those feelings have come back around this morning as I listen to the new record, and I absolutely could not love or be more proud of NoSo.

In 2023, NoSo’s debut record came out and it felt like my brain had been rewired. That same feeling happened a year later when I heard jasmine.4.t and it’s smacked me between the eyes again with When Are You Leaving? With just 10 songs, Baek Hwong has yet again created a masterpiece for the ears and heart. It’s a beautiful record, and I honestly didn’t know what to expect going into this. I didn’t know if something so perfect could be done again. I was silly to even have a fragment of doubt. There’s no second record curse or whatever here- far from it. Every single song on this record feels like home. There’s so much vulnerability in Baek’s songwriting, and it is so obvious on this record. They are a sensational songwriter, and it’s the way he truly gets to the core of every emotion possible and makes it beautiful. This record is a thing of beauty- even when touching on difficult themes. It’s everything you could want, and more. The way Baek writes about race, gender, the way the world is- it will break your heart because of the sheer honesty, but we need it. We need to hear it, and the way he does it is sheer poetry.

I’ve played this record about 3 times so far, and with every listen I am finding more and more things to love about Baek as an artist and as a writer. This record was entirely self-produced, and you can feel the grandness in it all. It’s such an open record and you feel there’s a lot of healing within the record. And I think the title alone shows the power in walking away from something or someone that is damaging. The relief you feel from walking away from something or someone that’s harming you can feel daunting but when it clicks, you know it’s the best thing you could have done. It’s also a record that feels like self-growth and becoming the person you knew you could be but still knowing there’s more to do.

Every single song on the record is just a work of art. I couldn’t pick a favourite at all and trust me I’ve been trying to work out which songs speaks to me the post, but I can’t do it. With the debut record, it was so easy. There’s a line on You’re No Man that got me in the gut, “And she’s gloating about being a gold star, you won’t break the spell.”  I don’t want to go into detail, but it absolutely got me. I think it perfectly sums up how Baek can write something so heartbreaking in a way no other could. There’s no one else who could write something so painful in such a careful way. It’s just beautiful. I love the urgency throughout Don’t Hurt Me, I’m Trying. It feels like it could be in a film or something- it’s got a speed chase feel to it.

For me, NoSo’s music is sacred and honestly if I could listen to his music without crying then I’d be fine, ha! The way he can just pull these feelings out in such an effortless manner leaves me in awe. It’s the way he just manages to portray such fragile feelings that make you feel like he’s writing about you or puts you in his position. It’s such a glorious record and it really does feel like the next step from Stay Proud Of Me. If you listen to NoSo’s debut first then go right into When Are You Leaving? you’ll hear the growth in the words, the music, the production and all in between. It is truly a perfect record, and it feels like home.

Baek has such a distinctive voice and it’s a voice that can soothe, and I think everything beautifully comes together on the last song on the record, Let It Die. And I think after playing the record on a loop for the past few hours- this could be my favourite on the record. It has such a big and euphoric feel to it. It feels like letting go, a massive sigh after the damage is done and relief takes over. It’s the perfect way to wrap up such a divine record.

I feel I may not have said enough about the record in the way I wanted, but maybe it’s because I feel the words so personally, I want to try not get too into it. All I know is that if I was a 13/14 year old queer kid listening to this record- I’d feel like it’s going to be okay. As queer adult, I think I’m still trying to find that reassurance, ha! That’s why artists like Baek are SO important and why his words and his experiences need to be told. The record defines survival, escaping and being okay. It isn’t an easy journey but it’s not one you always have to do alone.

When Are You Leaving? is a record to treasure and to love. It’s one of those records that you play for someone and say, “this is everything I cannot say just yet, but it’s all in here.” Like a diary entry I suppose, but deeper and with more care. The honesty and the way the songs just feel like home mean the world. I feel I’ve just made zero sense in all I’ve written so I’ll leave it here. In short, one of the best records of the year. Easily.

Thank you Baek for creating something so open and beautiful.

ANGEL FACE: Out In The Street.

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Last year I wrote about one of the best bands from Japan- Angel Face, and tomorrow sees the release of their new record, Out In The Street. The title fits this record. This is a record to play whilst wandering the streets, whilst doing a bunch of nothin’ in the streets. It’s a record to kill time to, and it’s a glorious Punk record that feels like something the Dead Boys could have churned out decades ago. It’s a fantastic record, and I have to tell you all about it!

Alright so what you need to know that there’s no second record curse here. This is a record that’s as tough as old leather and stands out, and stands up. I’ve started noticing more when I listen to new records if my friend Raz would have like it or not, and I’m pretty sure he would have been into Angel Face. I’m playing the record pretty loud, and my cat is happily sleeping through it and I always think that’s a pretty sure fire way of judging how great a record is. If she doesn’t like something, she finds a way to let me know. So, this record is Mary approved. Do you need to know anything else? Probably.

Something to really love about this record is how raw it is, y’know? You feel like you’re listening in on a band practicing and you feel you need to be quiet so you don’t disturb the atmosphere. It’ll make you want to jump around and throw things about. It’ll make you wish you could go to their shows and really feel what the band are about. I like bands that make you feel like their live shows could absolutely transform how you listen to them, and Angel Face do exactly that. Listening to the record and knowing they’ve been together a short amount of time, and have put out (nearly) 2 records is just so cool! Their sound is everything I’d want from a record- not just a Punk record. It’s got a real DIY feel to it, and these 10 songs were made to be played loud and this a band that know how to play one way and that’s FAST. Okay, maybe FAST and LOUD. Thankfully there are no sloppy, slow love songs here. Just unfiltered Punk- how it’s supposed to be.

In just 10 songs Angel Face let you know yet again who exactly they are. They’ve all played in some really great bands prior to what they do as Angel Face, and when you take that experience and make something new- you end up with a bloody mammoth of a record like this. Out In The Streets. For me, it’s the record you put on and do nothing to. Go out for a walk and waste your day however you want, but make sure this is your soundtrack. I standby everything I wrote about Angel Face last year, but you can happily increase my love for them for sure. This is great second record, and like I said, they’ve played in some amazing bands too, so I guess it’s expected that they’ll always put something brilliant out. I just love the snarly vocals and how it makes you feel like you’re listening to Punk for the very first time. You can just imagine how wild their live shows are!

Out In The Streets is a strong record, and irrespective of it being record number 2- hell, if it was record number 5 it’d still be this great! It firmly shows you exactly what Angel Face are made of, and just how effortlessly slick their sound is. It’s a record that you’ll have on repeat and in about 10 years’ time you’ll still be talking about how good it is! The Punk scene in Japan is clearly something that needs more attention, and we need to bring bands like Angel Face over to the UK to tour. There’s so many venues here that they could tear the roof off of. I just know that their shows would be something else! But, until that day happens- we’ve got the music.

For me, the best tracks are…well… all 10 of ‘em! But I think right now, Wastin’ Time is my favourite. It’s the one that totally nails the Angel Face sound fully and makes you want more and more. This is the one you need to play the loudest. It’s got a little Ramones kick to it, and it’s just a real joy to listen to. The production and the sound of the record is just a real delight- you can’t get enough of it!

The new record is out tomorrow (10th October) and is being released by Slovenly Records. Buy it and play it really, really loud.

Self Esteem @ Manchester Academy, 29th September 2025.

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If I can make this make sense, then I’ve done what I needed to do. Otherwise, it’ll just be an emotional/passionate rant about my love for Self Esteem.

I’m 38 years old; I don’t queue to be at the front for bands anymore. I stand where I can, and hope I can see. Yesterday was different and a solid use of annual leave. We queued from about half 5, and there were 4 others in front of us. That bloody front row was happening. My knees are feeling it today.

If you’ve ever been to a Self Esteem show, you’ll probably think you know what to expect. I thought I did. I saw her two years ago with my mum at the Albert Hall and it’s still up there as one of the best gigs I’ve ever been to. However, this tour is something else. There’s more healing here, there’s more love, there’s more need to be heard and to be seen. There’s more of a community feel. It felt like everything slotting into place in a messed up world. For that hour and a half, the outside world didn’t matter. The safety you feel at a Self Esteem show is something else, and it’s a feeling most (unless you’re a hateful prick) deserve.

The set opens with I Do And I Don’t Care. Rebecca Lucy Taylor stands front, and center and I am trying not to cry. I’ve got this, I’ll be alright. Truth is, I didn’t have “it,” and I absolutely was not alright. The second everyone on stage sings, “If I’m so empowered, why am I such a coward?
If I’m so strong, why am I broken?” I absolutely go. I cry as if my cat Mary has run off and will never return. It all comes out. Surely, I won’t have anything else left for later on?

After the emotional ride of I Do And I Don’t Care, we go right into Mother followed by the healing Lies (part of me was clinging onto Nadine Shah coming out, but my heart is hoping it happens in Sheffield!) What has you hooked the whole time is not just Rebecca’s incredible stage presence and her ability to make you feel like you’re less alone with all you’re carrying but it’s her group on stage with her. That’s more than a group- it’s a family and the love they all have for each other truly shines. There is not one person on that stage that you cannot stop looking at and in being in awe of. The way they move, dance, sing and just pour their heart out on stage is divine. Everything is left on that stage. It’s healing. It’s home. It’s being free of every burden you carry.

69 live is wild. I can confirm hearing the line, “If you beg, I will peg” live is beautiful especially when everyone else is shouting this song as loudly as they can. It’s such a liberating song and my god the choreography for it is insane. During the whole set, it’s not just the vocals you are stunned by. It’s the movements on stage. It’s the way it has been produced. It is easily one of the best put together gig I’ve ever been to. It flowed so perfectly and ended all too soon. I want every night to be a Self Esteem show and to break my own heart to certain songs. It felt like home, and as someone who feels unsettled a lot- it was exactly what I needed.

Logic, Bitch! sees RLT use a banana as telephone and although the song is very vulnerable- adding this element to the performance makes you less inclined to cry like a baby (this is just my experience.) And also, it’s very practical as it means she has a little deserved snack break.

I genuinely thought The 345 was going to have me a crying mess again, but I did alright- was this progress? No, no it wasn’t. I think I cry the most during If Not Now, It’s Soon because there’s a line in the song that my Gran used to say, or very similar to one of her many sayings; “And whatever is right for you, will guide you through.” And it’s something I miss hearing her tell me but luckily my mum reinforces it. The iconic Julie Hesmondhalgh appeared for the song for Sunday’s show but for Night 1 and Night 3, we all just cheered as if she was there anyway. But imagine being there on Night 2 and Julie appears?! I’d have lost it.

It was also during this song that a lovely person stood behind me handed me a tissue because I was a mess. That person was an angel, and I hope she never has bad days and always knows joy. The tissue served me well!

Whatever I write about last night doesn’t do the show justice. RLT and her gang know how to put on a show, and everyone has their moment to truly shine. You can feel the love, respect, and devotion from the stage to the crowd. It’s in the beautiful and tender moments where the band hold each other after certain songs and it just makes you really appreciate everything and more that goes into these shows. The first run of these shows are done, and the tour picks up again on Friday. The last show will be in the finest city in the UK- Shefield at the Arena. And from seeing the show last night, it was destined to be on the biggest stage possible.

The encore consists of I Do This All The Time and Focus Is Power. I’ve said it many times before, but I Do This All The Time is healing in song form. I remember hearing it for the first time years ago, and I felt like I was 13 years old hearing The Trick Is To Keep Breathing by Garbage. For me, RLT is on the same level as Garbage for me. The words are a safety net when the world isn’t. The crowd was beautiful in every way, and every single word to every single song was sung back at RLT with such devotion and passion. I truly hope she knows how important her words are and how much of a difference she has. The way she gets right to your gut with her words is phenomenal, and we’ll never know anyone else quite like her.

Of course, the show ends with a conga line on stage to Shirley Bassey’s This Is My Life, and it will never ever get old. As the band leave the stage, and the lights come up- the Academy is still full of people dancing like the last ones at a wedding without a care in the world and that pretty much sums up the joy you get from a Self Esteem show.

Last night was all I needed and more from a show. Maybe I’ll cry less at the Sheffield show or at least bring tissues this time! If you’re looking for a space to feel safe and to truly be part of something inclusive- go to a Self Esteem show. It just sums up all the good in world.

One final thing, Self Esteem are fundraising for two very important charities on the tour :  Schools Consent Project – JustGiving and Choose Love please donate if you can.

SPRINTS: All That Is Over.

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Buckle up because this is nearly 2,000 words!

The second album curse. Is it a myth? Is it for real? Well, one listen in on the new Sprints record, and it’s clear that this myth has passed them by. That myth looked at Sprints and knew better. It knew not to mess with them.

Letter To Self was one of the best records of 2024, and it was one of the most captivating debut records we’ve had in a while. It’s not fair to compare the two, but it’s fair to say that All That Is Over shows exactly what years of touring and working your arse off can do. Letter To Self was the starter. All That Is Over is the main event. It’s the one that grips you in a different way. The record opens with Abandon, and the way Karla’s voice grips you is unreal. It makes you feel like you are somehow listening in on something really private- almost voyeuristic in a way. You feel you shouldn’t be listening in but my god you are glad that you did. It’s the perfect way to start the record off and it truly grips you in ways the first song on a record should. Also, the drums on this are unreal.

You get your ears beautifully destroyed on To The Bone and this is one of the many moments where Karla’s voice shines. There’s this power (I honestly can’t think of a better word) in her voice that’s always there and she uses it to the fullest on this.

There are so many moments on this record that just make you think, “Oh shit this is THE BAND.” Like, this is the band you need to be pouring all your attention and love into. I’m seeing them play a small venue on Sunday here in Manchester and I just know it’ll be the perfect setting for them. Then, a few days before my birthday they’ll be playing the Albert Hall here and that’s my favourite big venue here in Manchester. I don’t there this a more fitting venue for them and to hear this record. It’s not a record that can be contained. It’s not a record that you stick on in the background. It’s a record you have to pay close attention to and let it grip you so tightly. The first song we got from the record was Descartes back in the summer and that pretty much summed up the feel of the record. Dark, heavy, poetic and addictive. It’s a stunning record and I feel that my words just don’t do it justice. This is a record that demands to be heard.

The latest single, Need is wild. I love the ending of it, and if you pay attention, you’ll hear Karla say, “I need you to leave me the fuck alone.” Perfect. I think most of us probably want this on a t-shirt or something. It’s fast and rowdy number, and I’m pretty sure seeing this live will be almost biblical. I think seeing them live will be just that to be fair. The more I listen to this song, the louder I want it. You want it louder and faster. It’s addictive. I’m pretty sure I’ll play this at the gym and feel I can take on the world.

Something’s Gonna Happen has claimed my heart. I could have this on repeat for hours, and with every listen, I’d find another part of it to adore and call it home. There’s an eeriness to it that would fit perfectly in like, a Norwegian detective drama series. It feels sinister. And you know, the whole record has this dark and sinister feel to it, but you don’t feel threatened. You feel quite safe, but you do feel on edge and that’s what they’ve done with Something’s Gonna Happen. You feel on edge, like it’s going to kick off and fuck me when it does kick off on this- it goes. It absolutely GOES. And I cannot wait to see this live. I just know the live version of this will be intense, and you can hear changes in Karla’s voice as she approaches the edge of the song- and that is the moment where you know you cannot escape your love for this band. It’s the anticipation that holds you so closely. You feel on edge- should you feel safe, or should you try run? As if you’re going to run. Don’t be a fool.

Every song on this record is a prime example of why Sprints are the most vital band around. You feel like you’ve found someone’s diary when you pay close attention to the lyrics, but you also fee like you’ve found a home. There’s a line on Pieces that got me in the gut; “Home is where the heart is, so where’s my head? For the last one who loved me, left me better off dead.” Oh, come on now! What a line! I’d have related to that well over a year ago, and it would have probably made me bawl. Now it just makes me feel silly for feeling that way. There’s always better and I found it. It’s a furious number, and again, is another example of why this record is made to be witnessed live. There is nothing calming about this record in the typical sense. As someone who finds security in loud songs and feels uneasy with the quiet, this record definitely feels good for the soul. It is comforting and its home. It’s just perfect.

Lyrically, this record is Sprints at their most honest and tender. Better is a solid example of the tenderness and it’s definitely got the potential to break the hardest of hearts. It’s one of the slower moments on the record and shows a different side of heartbreak in a way. There’s a healthy mix of rage, heartbreak, and disappointment on this record and Better sums up those emotions in the most perfect way. Sam and Karla’s vocals on this are just divine. I love their voices together anyway, but on Better you really hear how gorgeous they are together.

The record ends with a 6-minute dream of a song, Desire. I compare everything I listen to to the greatest song of all time- A Forest by The Cure. If a song can make me feel like I did when I first heard that aged 13/14, then I’m hooked. It goes without saying that feeling is there throughout All That Is Over but its comes alive on Desire. The last minute of this song feels like Karla is unleashing every single demon she’s ever known and giving it to the world and letting go. That’s how the whole record feels, and that’s how you feel when you listen to the record. Every ugly and intense feeling you have, that you have no idea what to do with is let go of when you listen to this record and for me, that’s what makes Sprints and this record such a joy to listen to. It’s like an exorcism of sorts. It’s a cathartic record and you get a real sense of it having that feeling during the creation of it.

The band in general on this record sound like gang. There’s not just one band member here to focus on- it’s all of them. Jack is a real threat on the drums, and there are a lot of moments on this record where the drums just take your breath away. The addition of Zac adds something that compliments the sound of Sprints in a way you didn’t think could exceed Letter To Self and previous, but Zac’s nailed it- that ferocious guitar sound feels like fireball approaching. Sam is probably one of best bassists around- the way he and Jack create this unique and thrilling rhythm on every song just leaves you in awe. Karla’s voice (and guitar) has never sounded so powerful. She has this tone to her voice which reminds me of my two favourites- Shirley Manson and Patti Smith. Writing this makes me feel like I have found Garbage for the first time aged 6 or 7, and that is what I get with Sprints. The power in their music reminds me so much of Garbage and my heart is so full of love for that. I pretty much could have cut out a thousand words here and just kept that in to sum up this record!

The whole record exposes the bin fire that is the world right now, and you feel less alone listening to the record- especially when you feel so fucking helpless. The world is heavy, and this record explores that heaviness in a way that has you hooked from the start. The production on this record is again flawless (I mean, it’s Daniel Fox- of course it’ll be perfect!) What was done on Letter To Self has been heightened and something entirely new has been birthed. It’s ripper of a record, and one you cannot get tired of. Sprints won’t shrink themselves for you to feel comfortable, and that’s one of the most wonderful things about this band. The hard work, the passion and the drive is right there. It’s always been there, but this record unleashes something entirely different, and you want it to be poured into your eardrums constantly. You simply cannot get enough of it.

All the best records are dark, intense and creep you out a little bit- All That Is Over does all this and more. If this is what they can do with just two records, then imagine what they’ll be like 5 or 6 records in. Dublin’s finest. Ireland’s finest. Just the best. I couldn’t praise this record more if I bloody well tried. It is like a thousand punches to the gut and head. A freight train to the soul. A mirror to yourself. It is perfect.

If you are in need of a record to break or fix you. If you’re looking for a record that puts you on edge but also makes you feel safe. If you’re looking for a beautifully created masterpiece. If you want a record that makes you feel like someone has stepped into your head and exposed all that you think and feel. If you’re looking for something you’ve not heard or felt before- then this is the record you need. It’s a masterpiece and it is a joy to listen to, and to be consumed by.

I don’t think I have ever written about a record in such detail before. Nearly 2,000 words about a record. I didn’t think I had it in me, but sometimes you hear something so important- you just have to let it all out. So, thank you Sprints. Thank you for creating one of the most important records of the year and for making something that feels like home.

THE GRUESOMES: The Dimension Of Fear.

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There are many things we can thank Canada for, but the one thing I am eternally grateful for, is that one of the best bands all time are from there. The Gruesomes.

The Gruesomes were a band I found on my own when I was about 20 ish (I’m 38) and when I found them, I felt like I did the first time I heard The Cramps and The Cure. I felt like I had found a home and being a weirdo wasn’t so bad at all. The Gruesomes debut record came out in ’86 (the year I was born) and 40 years later, the record still sounds effortlessly slick and ahead of its time. There is something so fantastic and beyond description within that record. I remember going to a market in Camden about 8 or 9 years ago when I was still living in London, and I did my weekly trip to buy records on my lunch break. I had 2 records in my hand, but all of a sudden, a copy of Tyrants Of Teen Trash caught my eye. I had been searching EVERYWHERE for this record, and all of a sudden, I am staring at it. Holding it in my hands. My holy grail. It was in my hands. I put the other 2 records pack, and bought The Gruesomes. I had the finest record of all time in my possession. I was the luckiest person in the world.

A few weeks ago, the band released The Dimension Of Fear. A record named by a fan, and it’s a solid name for a solid record. This record could easily have been released right after Tyrants Of Teen Trash. It has that typical sound of theirs; the sound that I know and love. The sound that feels like home, and the band have never sounded better. I hope one day they do a proper tour of the UK- I wouldn’t be mad if they didn’t make it to Manchester because I’d absolutely find a way to get to see them. But for now, let’s talk about why their new record rips and is one of the best records of the year.

The Dimension Of Fear is 12 songs in half an hour. You’ll want more, but what you get is essentially the best of The Gruesomes. It’s a sensational record, and it’s the band at their very best. I simply cannot praise this record enough, but I will. I will not shut up about this record at all. It’s their first record in 25 years, and those 25 years have sure as hell dragged! This is a stunning record, and if I was into marking records out of 10- it would exceed 10 out of 10. Gerry and Bobby’s vocals have never sounded so strong. You know they’ve been around for some time, and you’d probably expect there to be a change in how they play or whatever but absolutely not. This band can put any new bands to shame. They’ve got an abundance of energy that you wish you had even a fraction of. You wish you were as cool as The Gruesomes!

Just Go Away and That’s Using Your Head show us exactly why the band are one of the best, and I love that they are still playing shows. They are showing everyone how it’s done. They for me, are just one of the most underrated bands of all time. I love how they have that 60s Garage Rock sound but have carried it on beyond that (I know they formed in ’85, but I mean they perfected a sound before their time and made it theirs.) The Gruesomes know how to make songs that make you want to dance in a questionable fashion, they make you want to sing along as loud as you can to bops like What In The World, Broke My Brain and You’re Outta Luck. You cannot help but listen to this record and feel you’ve gone back in time BUT! BUT! If you’re already a fan of The Gruesomes, you’ll feel like they’ve never been away. I wasn’t born when their debut record came out (same year but I was still cookin’) but listening to their new record makes me feel like I’ve heard them for the first time but also really happy that I get to hear new music from a band I absolutely love.

Like a lot of bands I love, The Gruesomes make me wish I could play guitar or something because this is the kind of music I’d want to make. It’s just a prime example of slick Garage Rock/Punk, and it just makes you feel good. The band sure know how to make their fans feel good with their punchy Garage Rock sound, and I love that the band have been together for so long. You can truly hear in the music how much fun they have together and that beautiful childlike feel in their songs just has you hooked. The snarly vocals, the urgency in the sound. The playful and rowdy sound that just makes you want to ignore everything around you and soak up this record. It’s a masterpiece. It’s The Gruesomes in all their wonderful glory and I am so so grateful that they are still together and making music like this. It’s a flawless record, and you just cannot get enough of it.

They still have that rebellious schoolkid sound, and that sound is something you cannot help but love. You cannot help but be obsessed with it. Everything about this record is all us fans of The Gruesomes could ever want from them. It’s massively exceeded what I thought the record would sound like. I knew it was going to be a dream of a record, but this is truly something else.

Get yourself a copy and play it as loud as you can. And have it on repeat. I feel I could write a thousand plus more words on this record, but hopefully I’ve summed up my love for it and why it’s one of the best records of the year and was worth waiting 25 years for. Just don’t make us wait another 25!

The Dimension Of Fear is out now via Soundflat Records. Get some snotty Garage Punk in your ears!

PINS: I’ll Be Yours.

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The world is terrible, but PINS are back! One of my favourite bands from Manchester are back. Listening to their new single, I’ll Be Yours is making me feel exactly the same way I did when I first heard them back in 2011 or 2012. It was either Shoot You or Luvu4lyf that got me hooked. I felt like I had found a band that were going to make me love a city that I loved even more and truly appreciate the music there. It made me want to leave where I was living at the time. I made that move in 2018, and I’m still here. Music makes this city. As do the people. Home is where the music is.

Alright, soppiness aside- I’ll Be Yours is PINS at their very best and my god how I’ve missed them. It’s been around 5 years since their last record (Hot Slick) was released, and this year marks 10 years of the divine and delicious Wild Nights record. I urge you to buy tickets for this, as this band are wonderful live.

The new single sounds like how The Shangri- Las or how The Crystals would sound if they were around now and had a heavier sound. In short, PINS have that beautiful 60s Girl Group sound that I love so much but have added this heaviness to it that just makes it so exciting. I’ve missed this band so much. I can’t put into words how much it means to have them back. Who needs Christmas or birthdays!? This is what we need.

The guitar on this insane, and you just know it is going to be a dream to hear live! PINS are a band that absolutely need to be seen live. Every show I’ve been to, they’ve just sounded better and better. I cannot wait for the tour, and to hear these songs again. Oh, I’ve bloody missed them.

I’ll Be Yours is a gorgeous number to have on repeat and waste the day away too. It’s everything PINS are in 2 minutes and 6 seconds. If you’ve never listened to them before, start with this and go back. Go back and get lost in their stunning and powerful sound. They’re the best of the best, and I’m so glad they are back.

Tour starts in a week, and you can get tickets here: PINS Tour

This wasn’t so much a review but me going on about why this band are bloody great and a call for you to get tickets for the tour.

VIVA PINS!