Author Archives: Olivia

Unemployment: “Every day is silent and grey.”

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Some things happen to us that make us question our worth. A person can make a dig at us and make us think we don’t matter. Or something in your circumstances can make you think you’re not good enough. The thing is, no one really has the right to ever determine the worth of a person or to really judge a person’s situation. But we do, and it is no thanks to the government that cause most to judge others who seek help from the government. There is a fine line I know, with accepting help and taking advantage. Those on benefits are tarred with the same brush, making everything really really shit. I can’t promise to write eloquently with this.

I graduated from Uni in 2009 with a degree in Music Journalism & Broadcasting. Yes, most think it is useless. But I got a lot out of uni and if it didn’t cost so bloody much to go I’d have done a Masters. I love learning; I get bored easily and I need to be challenged. If I do nothing, I become irritated. If I do nothing, I am nothing. Or something like that.

Before I finished Uni I was applying for jobs that were apt for my degree and experience. I was frequently greeted with rejection telling me I didn’t have the right experience. I’m nearly 27, and it turns out I STILL don’t have the right experience, and maybe I never will. See, I love music and I love writing- I know I’m never ever going to make a living out of it. I know I don’t write in a way that speaks for the masses nor do I write anything that deserves a payment for. My words will never be featured in The Guardian, I’m alright with that. Not a fan of that paper anyway. Music publications are dying out, and Melody Maker was probably the best one. The magazines/websites I write for and have written for are ones that do have content of worth, and they don’t pull bands apart in order to get people to read their content. I’d rather be unpaid for writing about music and for a publication that has morals than the complete opposite. I’m not materialistic and having lots of money has never appealed to me. I own two pairs of shoes and my clothes are slowly falling apart. I’d look stupid dressed up anyway.

So after Uni I did a few internships and worked at HMV over several Christmas seasons. Working at HMV gave me a sense of worth. The people were brilliant and the customers were mental. I frequently was sang to by customers, “Do you know this song?!” If I got it right, I’d usually get a hug. I’m all for hugs. I was a magnet for pensioners and the socially awkward, I enjoyed it. I got to speak about music and suggest new music to people. Then it ended.

Anyone who has ever had the delight of signing on will know how awful it is. I spent just under a year on JSA when I was living in Stoke. I stayed in Stoke longer than I should have done. I didn’t want to admit defeat and go back home, but I knew I had to. The amount of friends I had was decreasing and my reasons for getting up in the morning was slipping from me. I was living in a house that was covered in damp, the bathroom was ruined and I was sleeping on a mattress. I lived on a street that was hounded with drug dealers, more than likely prostitutes and general troublemakers. I lived two doors down from drug dealers who tried to sell drugs to my friends when they’d come round and I’d have things yelled through my letterbox..god knows what. They were probably looking for someone. I’d go to bed at 4am and wake up at 8am. I didn’t want to sleep in case someone broke in. Of course I couldn’t defend myself but at least I could run out, if I could. I also had nothing of worth. I still don’t.

I’d sign on every other Friday. People at desks next to me were either dealing with people who had failed to come in or had someone sat in front of them giving them reasons as to why they hadn’t looked for jobs. I used to go in with sheets of paper with lists of jobs I had applied for. I was never made to feel like I was doing anything of worth when I’d present this bit of paper to them. I didn’t feel like a 20 something year old. I felt like a child seeking approval from someone who could easily stop my £50 a week and I’d be, to put it bluntly, fucked. I never turned to my mum and asked her for money. For the most part I was living off toast, cereal and mashed potatoes. However, my mum would sometimes do a shop for me if I was really desperate. I was always desperate but I kept going on. At one point I asked about help with my rent, and I was told “We’ve done a calculation and we can give you £1 towards it.” I wish I was joking, but I’m not. Of course I was annoyed, but what else could I do? Fortunately my rent was cheap. I moved back to my mum’s that Christmas (2011) and had a Christmas job st HMV. That ended, of course.

I then had to sign on again on the Isle of Man. Most job centers assign you an advisor. Someone sits with you, and they look for jobs with you and give you some guidance. The Isle of Man doesn’t do this. You don’t sit down with anyone, you line up as if you are in a post office and this glass is between you and the person you sign on with. “Any work or changes?” No. No I still feel useless and I have no idea why I bother waking up. That hasn’t changed. Frequently I was belittled by them for the jobs I was applying for. “Have you thought about applying for jobs that you CAN do?” As someone who has been rejected by supermarkets, I’m unsure what my capabilities are. I was applying for jobs in England and on the Isle of Man. Jobs that required virtually no experience. They just wanted someone with a degree and good communication skills. I know my limits. I know what I can and can’t do.

I left the Isle of Man in June this year as I was fortunate to get an SEO Internship with a really good digital marketing company. I was being paid for it, which is bloody rare. I was only meant to be there for a month but was kept on for 3 more. It was totally new to me, and I loved the experience. Sadly no permanent role was there, but the experience I got there was extremely useful to me, and I hope has strengthened my CV.

Reluctantly I signed on last week. It wasn’t as painful as I thought it would be, but maybe it will become more and more painful. The hardest thing about signing on after working is knowing there is nothing you can do. You know people are looking at you as you walk to the job centre. I’m not taking your money to inject it into my arm nor am I taking it to feed 5 kids. I have no kids nor do I have a substance addiction. Not everyone who goes to the job center is a dole scrounger. There are people who have been made redundant, graduates etc. There are so many that want the chance to work, but sadly some companies cannot offer that.

When I apply for jobs I know I’m either going to be ignored or rejected. I’m slowly getting that “Why do I bother” feeling back. There’s a small part of me that knows I must, but the other part of me knows this is all useless. The harder you try, the less you realise you should bother. I think I can vouch for most people who are on JSA that when they are told “But you’re not applying for everything are you” really pisses them off. You’re more than welcome to go through my emails and see all the applications I’ve filled out (for paid and unpaid work) no two jobs I apply for are the same. Supermarkets and other retail places say I don’t have the right amount of customer service experiences. Has the job gone before I even hit send?

The government is frequently trying to find ways to improve the job market and how to cut benefits. You’re made to feel as if it is your fault that you cannot find work, but what else is there to do? Now, I do know that there are some who do treat getting benefits as a salary/living wage and that does need to stop. People do take advantage and in the long run, we will all suffer even more so for the government’s mistakes. If you tell the jobless they can only have their JSA if they pick up litter; what happens to the person who actually does it for a living? Will they be struck off because they’ve found someone who HAS to do it in order to keep their benefits? Would David Cameron or any other politician be able to cope on £70 a week? Would he want to pick litter up just to keep his benefits? He’ll say yes, but we all know it is just another lie falling out of a politician’s mouth. He wants to cut benefits for those under 25s. People cannot help their situations, and some do really need that money. A 19-year-old is kicked out of home and has no means to support themselves; David Cameron would rather see them on the street than give them a helping hand.

I have no idea why I’m writing this. Maybe it is because my self-esteem has gone from “alright” to non-existent. I have no idea. Maybe I’m just angry at how people on benefits are perceived. I know I’m in the minority with my views and maybe I could have written all of this in a more eloquent way; but how can you portray anger at the situation when you phrase everything carefully? I’d rather speak my mind and have an opinion than stay silent.

When I’m asked where do I see myself in the next 5 years, I really have no idea. Hopefully I’ll one day be able to wake up and have an actual career rather than wasting my days looking for something I’ll never have. I used to be quite sure, but I don’t know. I really don’t. For now, I guess I’m just another hopeless statistic.

I’ve got Morrissey’s words to carry me through though.

THE #1s

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When I was at college I was a big fan of The Cribs. I enjoyed their Garage rock sound and probably enjoyed the fact they’re from Yorkshire too. Easily swayed, but not anymore. The Cribs played fast and their sound was unlike the rest. It’s been a while since a band has pulled off that sound in the way The Cribs did. I’ve not listened to The Cribs in some time; I sort of lost interest after 2008/2009. Typical.

There’s a band from Dublin called The #1s and they remind me of The Cribs when they first started. They play fast and with fury. You can hear a clear and raw distinctive sense of urgency in the vocals. Their songs are the kind you are supposed to scream back at them at one of their shows with sweat falling freely from your face and it trickles into your mouth as you scream the words back. The morning after, you’ll have a sore body and you’ll be unable to speak. This happened when I saw Crocodiles last month, and I’m hoping it happens tonight when I go see them. Lord knows I need it.

The #1s self-released a cassette, Italia 90 and it’s my favourite thing I’ve heard by them so far. I love how every song feels like a slight punch in the gut. I think it was released a few years ago, but since then they’ve released a 7″ on Cork/Leeds based Art For Blind Records and later this year they’ll be featuring on The Big Itch Club’s 7″ which features Faux Kings and my personal favourite. September Girls. Big things are happening for The #1s and they truly deserve it.

What I love about their music is that they are capable of unleashing all the feelings that  make us feel fed up. I feel fed up and disconnected from  most things, which is why music is a huge help. The older I get, the less I relate to everything around me. I don’t know what kind of person this makes me, but if I think about it- I just get more annoyed at myself. Music is the one thing I’ll only ever lean on because people are not permanent. And I think to be dependent on a person sort of weakens you. It’s alright to be weak though, that I know. I’m not a tough person at all. Never will be. Music is a crutch. My point is, The #1s make music that unleashes the shit feelings we feel in a very real way. All too often bands do it but you cannot connect due to how they project it all. Or how they act. Bands like The #1s are obviously true to their words, and you connect. I’m just speaking for myself, so there’s a good chance I’m wrong. But that’s okay.

The #1s have a new song called Sharon Shouldn’t which is released 4th October.  In Europe it will be released on Alien Snatch! and in America on Sorry State. The release will feature two b-sides, Boy and Girl. It is an evidential step-up from what they’ve previously released, but it is as rambunctious as their other songs. Sharon Shouldn’t is their third release; it is slightly more ferocious than their past releases but clearly shows how strong the band are. If this is the first time you’re hearing the band then I highly recommend you explore their back-catalogue. It is full of blissed-out gems that will fit any mood.

The #1s are a band anyone can relate to, and with most things in life separating ourselves from others it is good to know music is probably going to be one of the few things that bring people together.

You can listen to The #1s glorious sounds here: https://soundcloud.com/thenumberones (I Wish I Was Lonely is a good one!)

COQUIN MIGALE.

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I used to find it really difficult to write about brand new bands because I wasn’t entirely sure how I was meant to approach it. With no previous releases to mention and the like, it was a bit difficult. But I suppose I found it difficult because I’m not someone who makes things easy for themselves. I make a mess out of decisions and I’m hopeless with words when I speak. I’m not sure how I am with writing words; I have no ego to feed so it doesn’t really matter.

If I’m correct, Alex and Matthew who initially started Coquin Migale are from Scarborough. That’s in Yorkshire. Yorkshire is the best county in England. Most will dispute this, but they’ve not experience the delights of that fine county. They are missing out. Coquin Migale are Yorkshire’s answer to The Drums. They have this lovely surfer feel to their music; a dreamy escape from the horrors of every day life.

Coquin Migale only started making music in March this year. Personally, I think they’re better than half the crap we’re forced to love right now. They don’t use synths to make up for their lack of talent (nothing against synths but lay off the demo button or something!) Their talent is undeniable and Alex’s pleading vocals are just stunning. They did start out as a duo (easily could have been one of my favourite duos if there was still only two of them) but they’ve added two more members Stevie and Jack.

I’m not sure what they sounded like as a duo, but I’m going to make a bold assumption that they were still brilliant. The band recently recorded an EP in Hexham and are currently working on getting their music heard and playing gigs around the Newcastle area. Newcastle, you are truly lucky to have a band like this spoiling you with their music. Be kind to them.

What I really love about Coquin Migale is their dark 80s feel to their music. When most try to sound 80s, they sound like an even crappier version of Wham. The best thing about the 80s was the dark side to it. The side that gave us the likes of Sisters Of Mercy (they got their breakthrough in the 80s) and The Cure (Seventeen Seconds onwards.) They have a sinister feel to their music but Alex’s vocals sort of tame the dark vibes slightly because his voice is so gentle.

Their song, Icarus is 5 minutes of excellence and off the one minute mark it transforms from being quite vulnerable to a really authoritative masterpiece. Even if two of them weren’t from Yorkshire, they would still be one of my favourite finds of 2013. The fact that they’ve not been making music together for long is mind-blowing. All they have is an EP, and it is enough to make you wish they had more. In time it will happen, of course.

On record they sound incredibly tight, and I’m yet again making a (positive) bold statement that Coquin Migale are more than likely going to be amazing live. There is next to nothing about these guys online, but only for a small amount of time is this Newcastle four-piece going to be a hidden treasure. There is something about them that just HAS to be heard. They have the same level of fury to their sound that is found in the likes of (hate the word) “established” lo-fi/surfer bands that are based on the West Coast. They could easily take them on. Worth Your Time is a prime example of how tough this band is. Hearing a band so early on in their career is exciting because you just know they are approaching amazing things.

All the luck in the world to them, but I don’t think they’re going to need it.

You can listen to them here: https://soundcloud.com/coquinmigale

GARBAGE-Beloved Freak.

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There are musicians who, even though you’ve never met them and may never meet them, sometimes feel like the closest person to you. You feel close to them because they tell your story better than you could. You’ve tried many times to unravel every feeling and everything that goes on in your head. For the most part, it is pointless. Things don’t always need a meaning but things need truth. Voices do need to be heard, and when our own isn’t loud enough there is always someone else who has the guts to be our voice. To be louder and be as brave as we wish we were.

I’ve always had a small yet solid number of musicians that have been my voice and that ounce of hope I needed to get through most things. They are the musicians I wish I was as tough as, but I’ll never be tough. I may look as if I am pissed off most of the time but I’m not. Although I dislike the current state of the world, it’s never anything that personal. I’m grumpy but only because I’m getting older. I dislike a lot of things, and it is easier to vocalise them. If you talk about the things you love, it is  easier for people to mock your interests. But you know what? Fuck them. No, not literally. No thanks. Grubby bastards. Courage crept up on me late in life. It smacked me in the face a few years ago. I’ll stand up for anyone but myself. I was once hit in the face for standing up to some racist prick. It wasn’t a hit that was painful. Maybe because I was proud of myself for speaking up. I do have a point, but I know no one is reading much further. Which means I can write what I want. Be free with your words.

When Not Your Kind Of People came out last year, I went directly to the last track on the record; Beloved Freak. I somehow had a gut feeling that this song would be one of those Garbage songs that fellow Garbage lovers would turn to when everything was ugly. I knew immediately it would have the same meaning to me that The Trick Is To Keep Breathing would have to me. The Trick Is To Keep Breathing dragged me through my teenage years, and partly through adulthood. I’m nearly 27; I don’t have it right and I know I never will. I don’t think any adult ever truly has it sussed out. You just make do and carry on, because the alternative is..well, I’m not sure.

I played Beloved Freak and cried. What a surprise!

For as long as I’ve been a fan of Garbage (since the start) their songs have meant more to me than I can put into words, songs like Beloved Freak just sum up exactly why I love them and why they saved this lost soul. I’ve watched various live clips of Beloved Freak and I’ve seen Shirley choke up towards the end as she sings. The power she has with her words is just beautiful. She doesn’t need to write lyrics that are made up of ridiculous metaphors to make her point. She goes right to the core of the emotion and executes it in such an honest way that most wish to shy away from. Everyone has their own struggle to overcome on a daily basis, and I firmly believe that music is one of the very few things that make life a little bit easier.

“You’re not certain when you feel.
Hurt get violent when you deal
With how the world drags you along
You’re not alone.”

Maybe I’d have been braver if this song existed when I was a teenager, but as an adult listening to this, it makes every emotion feel less ugly and less of a chore to carry around.

The thing about Shirley’s words is that you KNOW she means every single one of them. When she sings songs about despair and self-hate, you know she has felt that way herself. That is what makes her words more powerful than I can get my head around at times. Beloved Freak feels like, to me, her way of telling the person who is listening to the song that in the end, you’ll get to a point where everything is alright. It may never make sense, but you’ll get there. It’s like she’s placed her hand in yours as you drag yourself through each day. There will come a time where you won’t be dragging yourself no more; instead you’ll be walking with your head high.

There are many parts in this song that have come to mean the world to me, for reasons I don’t think need explaining. Shirley’s lyrics have always been obvious for me. Much like Morrissey. You know exactly what they mean and you connect straight away. When a singer/band isn’t afraid to be so open with their music, you know you’ve found something you will have a connection with for the rest of time. The other day I thought about what it would be like if I never was a fan of Garbage. Would I harbor certain feelings forever with no clue as to how I face them? I have no idea, but for the better, Garbage helped me grow up and adjust. I’ll always feel slightly awkward in the skin I’m in. I’ll never fully like myself, but I don’t let that define everything I do and the person I am. If I was happy with myself, I wouldn’t work hard towards anything. Carrying some self-doubt helps.

Beloved Freak isn’t just a song to me. It’s something I turn to when that sinking feeling kicks in. It isn’t as frequent as it once was. I always mention that I love bands/singers that are really open with their words, and I guess that is why I write like this. Maybe it makes me a total prick, I have no idea. But music is my life, and with songs like Beloved Freak- I couldn’t and wouldn’t have it any other way.

“People lie and people steal.
They misinterpret how you feel.
And so we doubt and we conceal.
You’re not alone.”

People will always make you feel as if what bothers you is insignificant or that you’re dumb for having such feelings. Let them waste their time on being foolish, you just carry on. They’re not worth the thought. We learn to hide how we feel in order to keep a sense of normality around us, but let it be known that nothing is normal. Morrissey taught me that. And he’s utterly right.

Bands like Garbage are there for you to no longer hide anymore. Everyone is different, and how you cope with life is how YOU cope with it. People will judge, but you have to go with what you feel is right in your heart. These are just a small fraction of what Shirley Manson’s words have taught me.

“This little light of mine,
I’m going to let it shine.”

Music is my light. Be a beloved freak. Don’t let the fuckers push you around and don’t let anyone ever tell you how you should be x

CULTS-High Road.

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When I bought Cults debut record back in 2011, I was in awe of how they merged 60s girl groups with a lo-fi sound. They were different from most duos that I love. They didn’t have the ferociousness of The Kills yet they had delicate tones much like Beach House. They combined everything I love about music and made a truly impressionable debut record. Songs like Never Saw The Point and Rave On became the soundtrack to all the ugly feelings I was carrying around yet gave me a hint of courage to throw it all away and to leave a soul-destroying place behind.

Move forward two years and they are about to release their second record, Static. The first single to be taken from it is High Road. The intro to it sounds like something Isaac Hayes would have created. The song would have been perfect in the 70s as a soundtrack to a Blaxploitation film. What I love about Cults is that they do not sound like the same old shit that is floating about. No one in this band is stood with an acoustic guitar looking sorry for themselves on stage. No one is standing looking bored hitting the keys on a synth with glitter scattered on their face just to look “different.” I’m so tired of that crap. I wish it’d go away. Instead of going back and listening to music from the 60s/70s, we have bands like Cults who manage to just stay well away from the dullness of most bands. They add an element of wonder to their music. Their lyrics make you think about everything going on in your life, even if you don’t want to think about it. Madeline and Brian’s vocals together is just beautiful.

High Road is the second beautiful song that the band have put out to introduce us to their new record. It doesn’t stray too much from their debut record. Their debut record didn’t sound like a band who had just released their first, they immediately lured you in with their ability to take you back to a time where music actually had substance, I’m only going by one new song but High Road makes you believe that Static could well be one of the best records this year.

For me High Road easily makes up for their absence over the past few years. Cults have evidently come back with something that is potentially going to be a brilliant piece of music. I love that High Road feels like it could easily have been on a soundtrack from decades ago. Cults are a band that fill you with nostalgia, but it’s up to what you are longing for. I think for the most part, we are all longing for the same thing. I cannot stop playing High Road, and I’m 100% sure that Static is going to be incredible, and I’m just casting my biased opinion aside briefly to make that judgement. With every listen I can hear something else to love and hints at how the band have, as awfully clichéd as it sounds, grown up.

Madeline and Brian both have delicate voices that sound so perfect together. They are a gorgeous duo that aren’t afraid to be utterly vulnerable with their lyrics. This vulnerability is what is missing from a lot of songs, but you’re never going to hear honesty like this blasting out on the airwaves. Most are alright with that, because when you search deeper you do find something beautiful.

Static is released 15th October. Cults, are quite clearly one of New York’s finest bands.

PINS-Girls Like Us.

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Next Monday (30th September) sees the release of quite possibly one of the best debut records of the year. It is also one of the best records of the year. It is nothing short of perfect, and if you think Haim’s debut is the one you should be fawning over- then you are wrong.

Girls Like Us by PINS is not for those who are seeking lyrics full of “I love you’s” or soppy sentimental songs. They are dark,  they are mystical creatures who are coming for your souls. Aside from Savages, no other band is really doing it. PINS are from Manchester, and everyone knows Manchester after New York is THE most important place in the world. Manchester gave us The Smiths and The Fall. New York gave us Punk. Does anything else really matter? No, not really. PINS are the backbone for cowards. PINS aren’t afraid to throw a middle finger to those who wish to sound like everything and everyone else. PINS are going to blow your mind and eardrums.

As I listen to Girls Like Us, I realise very early on what this record reminds me of. I’m always seeking music that makes me feel like I’m discovering The Jesus And Mary Chain all over again. PINS do exactly that. They remind of The Birthday Party mixed with Captain Beefheart with a slight hint of Siouxsie. In a dream world, PINS would be supporting Dum Dum Girls in December in London. If either band see this, please make it happen. They have this incredible sound that makes you want to grab stuff and throw it. I sadly can’t do that because I’d get into trouble. Maybe I’ll throw some bread out of the window later, at least a bird will eat it.

The bass on I Want It All is INSANE. It is so brooding and captivating. It has a stalker vibe to it; like someone is following you and just will not leave you be. That nagging thought in the back of your head that creeps to the front of your head, and will not leave you alone until it consumes you. Girls Like Us is a record that will consume you; it has to. It is also a record that makes you want to move to Manchester. I miss the North of England. I miss its dull skies and glorious architecture. I miss Northern accents. One day, I’ll go back.

PINS to me aren’t just a band, they are a silent movement- for now. When I wear my PINS shirt (I pretty much live in it) I feel like I’m wearing a shield. A form of protection. If someone was to stop me and ask what my shirt was about, I’d just tell them it was a movement about to happen. PINS aren’t a band that are going to be played to death on commercial radio; they are a band that are going to last for years and years with a cult following. They have that tight-knit feel about them. The band seem to have a gang mentality to their sound, but that doesn’t make the listener feel excluded. As if they are on the outside looking in. If you truly get it, you feel part of it. The band become a huge part of you straight away. How many bands recently have done this? Not that many.

They are effortlessly bold with their sounds. They don’t pull ridiculous faces when they place, their words mean something, their sound is distinctive and brave. They are not like everything you have been force-fed. I feel PINS have created a record that so many have been searching for. They have a mixture of 60s girl group and Nick Cave about them. I have no idea what people are saying about PINS and their debut record, but I doubt anyone will be saying anything negative about them, how could they!

For me, Girls Like Us is a record that will be regarded as a fantastic debut in years to come. There is something about it that stands out above the rest. Nothing about Girls Like Us sounds like it’s an act. It is entirely pure and perfect. As I listen to Faith’s vocals, I cannot help but feel grateful that a band like this exist. Her voice is powerful and assertive like Patti Smith and Shirley Manson but on some tracks there is a hint of vulnerability there. When a singer does this, I have one always in mind- Courtney Love. Faith pretty much nails it. The band is tough and expose feelings you are probably told to press down on and ignore.

Girls Like Us feels likes a fight. The record ends on The Darkest Day, and this sounds like the aftermath of a fight when you’ve calmed down. Staring at your bloody knuckles and your bruised face- squirming at what you see, but proud you stood up for yourself (I’ve never punched anyone by the way.) Girls Like Us is a unifying record which will hopefully push female musicians to get out there and be heard. We really need more strong female musicians. Being strong isn’t wearing stupid outfits with fire shooting out of your bra. That isn’t empowering, that is downright stupid. Pick up an instrument, be loud and do everything with all the heart you have. Play with fury and do not compromise you or your beliefs. That is what you get when you listen to Girls Like Us. You’re no longer afraid; the passion will drive you on.

When I listened to Savages debut record, I felt like someone had pushed me up against a wall and punched me repeatedly. Confusion took over because I wasn’t sure what was going on. I felt sore and destroyed after I listened to it; it conjured up raw feelings that is lacking in most. That is what I want from music. That is what should come from music. Thankfully PINS do exactly that.

Their debut record isn’t even out yet, but I am so excited for what else is to come from PINS. They are evidently, here to stay.

EVERYTHING BY ELECTRICITY-Novocaine.

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I first wrote about Everything By Electricity in May this year. I was instantly lured in by their hypnotising Shoegaze feel they have to their music. Of course I hate people coming up with pointless sub-genres in music, but let’s be honest, Shoegaze was one sub-genre that truly meant something. It was a stint in music that really had power. It was something that influenced a lot of bands I listen to now. Most now, take the elements of Shoegaze and conjure up something truly ethereal. Everything By Electricity are one of the bands that do this, and they do it extremely well.

Novocaine is the new song by the London trio, and as someone who became an instant mega fan- Novocaine is over 3 and a half minutes of sheer bliss. I’m not someone who has a major love of synths and such, but Everything By Electricity use them in a way that, if they didn’t use them, it wouldn’t sound right. Especially on Novocaine. The synths mixed with Yulia’s gorgeous vocals just sends you on some blissed-out trip that you really don’t want to return from.

When a band can make you excited to hear new music from them over and over, that’s when you know you’ve found something really special. With a lot of bands trying to go in this direction, I believe Everything By Electricity to be one of the very few who have got it right. In America you’ve got the likes of Savage Sister and Tamaryn getting it totally right. Over here, we have Everything By Electricity. I don’t want it any other way.

Novocaine just has this glorious way of lifting your spirits as soon as the drums come in- a countdown to feeling good. I’ve not seen Everything By Electricity live (yet) but I can imagine that when I do, I’ll be left feeling much like I did when I saw Beach House this year. Everything By Electricity have something extremely sacred about them; they have a quality to their music that is just nothing short of perfect. They place such positive feelings inside of you as you listen to them; you just close your eyes and in your head, you are where you want to be. They are a delightful escape from all things mundane.

You can listen to Novocaine, and some more of their tracks right here: https://soundcloud.com/everythingbyelectricity

With Autumn now here, they are the ideal band to listen to as you watch the leaves fall to the ground, not caring for the amount of layers you’re now wearing or the fact that daylight is getting shorter. There is comfort in sound; Everything By Electricity are just that. The comfort.

ELLIE GOULDING. iTunes Festival 22nd September 2013.

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If you ignore that I won Jessie Ware tickets last week, I actually never win anything. I never won anything in school and the like; but that’s alright. If you win tickets to see two of your favourite singers, it pretty much means more. I’ve never been to the Roundhouse, I’ve walked past it a few times wishing I could go in to see something magical. Last night I got to see Ellie Goulding for the fifth time. For free. I like free stuff, who doesn’t! Anyone who says they don’t is nothing but a liar.

We were stood right at the back, but although I’m awfully short- I had a pretty good view. I could rest my tired bones against the barrier and generally have the time of my life. I sang, did some little movements and had a nice time. It was a really special moment seeing Ellie; I first saw her on her very first tour and there were about 200 people in the room- to see her play venues like the Roundhouse was truly beautiful. When I first saw her, her shyness was somewhat holding her back, but her voice was more than enough. Now? Now she moves about on stage like a person in complete control. A woman with a vision that is hopefully inspiring others to do the same.

With only two records out (if you ignore the re-released versions), Ellie has this presence on stage that is found in the likes of singers that have been around for decades. This was my first time seeing Ellie in London, and as she’s a London resident- it was fair to say that this is the best performance I’ve witnessed of hers so far. I suppose in a couple of weeks when I see her at Hammersmith I’ll declare that as the best time I’ve seen her. There is something truly special about seeing a band/singer play to their home crowd.

From a personal point of view, when she sings songs about her dad I just go to bits. Not because I’m sad for her, but because I know what it’s like to have that loss. My loss is different to hers, but the songs cut to the very core. Fortunately this time I’m able to not cry at all because I’m just in awe of Ellie’s voice and how far she’s come. The thing is, she is able to write about these heartbreaking events in a way most would struggle with. To unleash them in this way and to not be afraid of being so open is a bloody brilliant trait to have. A trait most wouldn’t know what to do with. People are afraid to be vulnerable but there’s really nothing wrong with it. There is something wrong with thinking everyone is going to fuck you over. Ellie’s music, when she does songs like these, are a form of healing. The way she sings the songs that break your heart are sang with so much passion (obviously the same goes for her other songs, but you know what I mean.)

For me, Under The Sheets is always going to be the song I look forward to the most during her sets. It’s the song I remember seeing the video to on TV in late 2009. And she’s hitting this drum with glitter flying off and I was hooked. I’m not a fan of glitter, it must be said. There was something about Under The Sheets that, when I first heard it, I knew I was listening to someone who was going to be massive. I’m rarely right, but with this, I was! When I see her perform this live, it is pretty much the song that causes me to injure myself if I’m near a barrier as I like to use it as a drum. Did that happen last night? Yes. Is my hand really bruised and a bit swollen? Yes it is. If I’ve not got a minor injury after a gig, I’ve probably not had a good time. The bass drop during Lights is electrifying, I mean the whole set is. But the drop during Lights (Bassnectar remix) is amazing to see live.

Ellie’s band (Max, Joe, Chris and Simon) are amazing. Each of them makes you wish you had even a tiny amount of musical talent. All of them play with such love, and the energy all of them has is infectious. You cannot help but move your limbs around in a questionable fashion as you watch them play with all they have. Ellie and her band are tight; the musicianship they have should be enviable by others- making them want to be as tight as they are.

I’ll admit, I wasn’t really taken by her current single, Burn but after seeing it live. And yet again witnessing Ellie slay the guitar, I was blown away. She does it all. Her shy charisma on stage makes her easy to love because there is no pretentious vibe about her. She’s simply someone living out her dream, and to have watched her go from playing to 200 people to this was just magical. If you’ve never seen her live, let it be known you are truly missing out.

An Interview With Mark Spence (Royal Chant/Designer Mutts)

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Sadly this interview wasn’t done face to face as Royal Chant live on the other side of the world to me. In an ideal world we’d be finding the best whisky and bands we could get our grubby hands on, but alas…we’ll have to wait a while before that happens.

My friendship with Mark started last year I think, or maybe the end of 2011. He followed this blog and wrote some lovely words to me. Words that I sometime read back on when I think “balls to it!!” I didn’t realise he was in a band for a while, but when I heard Royal Chant I instantly fell in love with their music. I’m fortunate enough to call someone like Mark a true pal because he’s just a brilliant bloke with a genuine heart. Of course that is the same for the band in general. If they were assholes, I wouldn’t write about them.

I’ve always loved Royal Chant’s lyrics above most. I love how Mark doesn’t need to create pretentious prose in order for you to truly get where he is coming from. His honestly and that raw tone to his voice is what makes you believe in every single word. If you cannot be honest in what you do, then don’t do it. If only politicians would do the same.

I started writing this a few days ago, but I got distracted and frustrated with what I was writing. But now I have no excuse to get this done as I’ve sliced my big toe, got blood all over my girlfriend’s flat seconds before she was to go out. I pick my moments to have accidents. Walking is going to be fun over the next few days! Anyway, enough with the distractions.

I sent off my questions to Mark hoping I hadn’t asked my pal ridiculous questions, but I like to think I know him well enough to know that he’d tell me that they were shit. Or in this case, give me something to work with. And that he did. What I love the most about our exchange for this was what that he told me the songs that were playing as he was typing up his responses. Here is the first one:

I asked Mark if there was any obvious corruption within the Australian music scene. In the UK and America, you can see who has been marketed as a brand rather than a band, but does it happen in Australia?
“I honestly don’t know.  Possibly.  Probably.  Myself (and thus Royal Chant) exist on the periphery of mainstream media/music, so it’s hard for me to say.  I actually had to think hard to remember the last band that I felt was being “handled” or specifically marketed, but even that seemed mostly self-imposed.  I’ve come across a few bands that were definitely aiming for that 1st tier of pop-wankdom, but it was nothing they didn’t opt-into of their own volition. 

Ultimately, the same rules apply here as anywhere else: money will help.  It can’t make people like you, but it can certainly get you in front of more people and into some enviable situations.  You can get jaded or cynical about that, but the easiest and healthiest thing to do is attempt to operate with an entirely different mindset, to create your own reality. True independence is a realm that few bands actually manage to obtain, and the longer we do this and the more responsibility we shoulder for both making the music and getting it out there the more I realize that most of the B.S. media machine is predicated on people & bands buying into it.  Simply put: don’t.”

Of course people will ALWAYS buy into the shit they are force-fed. Just look at reality shows we secretly watch. The outcome of it seems to always take people’s brains over. In England. Christmas is ruined because of that fucking programme. Every year it seems a regurgitated piece of shit is churned out for people to spend their money on as “stocking fillers” or just you know, a 3 minute piece of audio torture. These shows are everywhere- it is sheer pop-wankdom. This isn’t going to die out anytime soon, and that’s what is truly upsetting. Nothing really lasts anymore does it? Everything is throw-away. When One Direction split up, there will be another pretty boy band to take their place. But what can we do?

“Allow me to digress.  Australia is a very big country with a very small population, whereas the UK is a very small country with a very big population.  Coming from the USA, which is both, Australia seemed very comprehendable.  There’s only a few capital cities, and even Perth is a bit of a stretch for most bands (we’ve never been).  There’s only so many stations, so many stages, so many people that one would need to deal with in order to have the scene “sorted”, although it still seems vast enough for my tastes. 

It’s pretty well established that many bands, once they have had a taste of success and been around the block a few times, tend to get a bit disillusioned with Australia, finding it a bit backwards and provincial, hence the inevitable trek to the UK, Europe, the States, or all three.  It’s a bit back and forth.  There’s heaps of bands trying to claw their way to the top of the Australian heap, and then another level of bands that would like nothing more than to leave. 

Corrupt?  I don’t know.  Probably no more than any other time and place.”

We’re all fucked.

Surely with all the world’s frustrations inside of us, we are desperate to unleash them somehow. Mine is kept in various notebooks that no one reads. Thoughts are private and words are public. There’s always an equal balance I suppose. We look to music to provide some insight into how we can free ourselves. It is so easy to feel trapped and into fall into the traps of modern life. Modern life is dull. It consists of the amount of friends you have on Facebook and if there is an App for anything/everything you do. I really hate, and no part of me can relate to it. Hashtags annoy me, modern slang is fucking awful- and our brains aren’t functioning like they should. Eat junk, turn to junk. Read lies, become a liar. No one wants to have heart or be honest. I think this is ultimately why I really REALLY listened to Royal Chant. I listened as hard as I could because straight away I got it. I got the rage, I got the desire to fix the broken parts and to stop caring for what anyone thought. When a band can drive you like that, then you stop turning to shit when nothing goes your way. So these songs that they write, what does writing songs mean to Mark?

“I don’t know any more, but I reckon it’s my attempt to make sense of the world. It may be the most truthful I get in life.  It may the be most dishonest I get.  Perhaps I’m singing what I really mean but am too cowardly to say in real life, or maybe it is a mask I wear that slowly changes as I do.  It’s what I can do, for better or for worse. I like words, I like melodies.   Songs are perfect for doing what they do best, but quite inept at doing what they shouldn’t.  I’d like to think I’m getting close to both.
I love songs.  The older I get, the more I am in awe of them.  I will listen to the same song for weeks on end, and am always amazed at their power.  Even “bad” songs can change the world, or at least a person’s world, so I’d like to think I’m a lot less judgemental now than I used to be.”

Music cures all. It stops bad moods, it eases nagging thoughts and it can make you feel good about yourself. For instance the other night when I saw Jessie Ware, it somehow managed to make me feel a lot more love for my girlfriend when I looked at her. I really didn’t think it was possible, sometimes things happen and it’s just bloody beautiful. I also once listened to Radio 1 and realised I disliked a lot of their “presenters” but that’s a different story.

I like to know certain things about bands I love, and they are probably sick of always being asked it- but I like to know what made them want to make music and when they feel like chucking it all in; what makes them want to continue. I knew Mark would give me an insightful answer because he’s that kind of guy.

“I always thought I could do it so I did. I was always drawn to music, even before I could make it.  Singing songs and dancing around, doing stupid performances like all kids do.  Also, writing songs from an early age, and always believing that I was better than I actually was.  Delusion, ego, & arrogance were essential to my development.  I can’t speak for anyone else on that though.

The thought that we can always do better.  I love it.  I’m an addict.  Hearing a great song will definitely do the trick, or being inspired in any way.  There’s always a guitar around, and always some melody in my head and a few words that need to find a home.  There’s got to be ego involved in there somewhere, right?  I guess, whether rightly or wrongly, I believe “I can do that”, and haven’t stopped trying.

That’s pretty rare, but a good sleep and a good idea have always done the trick.  I can count on one hand the times I have thought about chucking it in, and even if that happened I’d keep on making music on my own.  I’m a full-time musician and music teacher, so even if I said “right, that’s enough, no more Royal Chant”, I’d keep humming & strumming in some form or fashion. 

I guess I could always quit the whole thing and do something else, but I’m not really fit to do anything else.  Anyone need insurance?”

The fight that Mark has is evident. It’s in his solo work, with Designer Mutts and with Royal Chant. There is an equal amount of passion in his music, regardless of who he is making it with. The way he is with his approach to music is inspiring. There have been many times where I have questioned why I bother writing about music, but then I read something Mark has written or I listen to Royal Chant and everything starts to slowly make sense. Slowly. Always slowly. I think as well, it is because I know that he means every words. It’s the same with the likes of Patti Smith and Morrissey; you know they mean their words which is why you truly believe in them and cling onto them. You cling onto them with red raw hands and teary eyes- everything you have and are just depends on it. Music is more important to me than I first realised. The older I get, the more I come to depend on it. I’ve never depended on a person, it has always been music. And I think it more than likely will always be that way, for many reasons.

Royal Chant have a song called Nothing Ever Happens, It Just Seems To. The occasional cynic in me really loves this song, and it is by far my favourite song by the band. And it is (so far) my favourite song that Mark has written. I do tend to change my mind a lot, but as it is a song I frequently listen to, I know it will remain my favourite. There is something about it that just basically sums up the daily disappointments and frustrations we all feel. You cannot escape it, ever. Even the toughest and happiest of people are bound to feel a slight twinge of these feelings that many deem as “ugly” or whatever. I regard them as what makes us human; everyone is different thought, thankfully.

I thought now was a better time than most to ask Mark about this song. I’d been meaning for some time, but I held back and listened to it more and more before I asked him about it.

“I’m always happy to talk shop! If I remember correctly, I was working on a cruise ship again at that time.  When I left America I was in pretty bad shape.  For all the normal, human reasons…heart broke, cash broke, strung out, a worthless waster, etc etc.  Hopping on a cruise ship largely saved my life. 

Having said that, once the magic of Europe wears off (or once I become stupid enough to become immune to its eternal magic), playing drums on a cruise ship is a somewhat insane experience.  Repetition.  Endless repetition.  I also flew out to LA twice to record the Water Never Waits EP by Sickboy (my moniker/band at the time).  Los Angeles has never been a good fit for me, from the biggest aspects down to the smallest detail.  It’s a weird, crazy place, and I would be happy to never go there again. Having said that, I did enjoy recording there, but it’s not like I was in some fancy studio. 

Anyways, string all those lines together…my shit metaphors for LA, my mindlessness, my recovery from my former life, my not-quite-adjustment to my new life, general confusion, a bit of optimism, a large chunk of skepticism….
Flat tyres, prescription speed….yeah, that’s LA, and a pretty big metaphor of my life, if I may be so bold. I do remember putting a reasonable amount of effort into that song, as it was a fairly hefty “piece”.  I mean, it wasn’t a throwaway, so I kind of knew that I was dealing with something that meant something, even if only to me.  Some songs are beautiful throwaways, while others are bloated pieces of crap.  Sometimes it’s OK to be serious, at least that’s what I tell myself.”

The band doesn’t really play this song live anymore, but if you’re so lucky to find yourself watching Mark do a solo set- he does a stripped back/acoustic version of the song.

Royal Chant have a new song out called New Nowhere which can be heard here: http://royalchant.bandcamp.com/

Of course you must play it as loud as you can, just to hear how raw it is. For me, it’s the Royal Chant that I know and love. It sounds like something I heard by them over a year ago. They have a distinctive sound that echoes throughout their music, but at the same time they never repeat themselves in what they do. They make bold and unapologetic music that appeals to those that know there is more out there. That there is more to life than what we have. Thing is, we are the only ones who can change that. With a new song out, Royal Chant have no plans to be quiet. They will come to the UK right?!


“Of course we’re coming to the UK!  In the simplest of terms, I want to keep writing and recording and touring, for as long as this band lasts, and beyond (if it should ever come to that).  If you want to get down to brass tacks we’ve got our new Small Town Bruises all wrapped up, and then we’ve got another LP worth of material after that (tentatively titled Societé Catastrophe) , so it’s really just a matter of keeping things together and keeping everyone sane and happy with enough food and cash so that they’re not throwing their whole lives away.  I don’t know if it can be done, but it seems we’re making a decent go of it.  I don’t want to stop and am not planning on it. 

Things we want to do: take Royal Chant to Western Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, the UK, Europe, and the USA (again!).  Rinse. Repeat.”

Music aside, Mark is a pal that appreciates two of the finest things in life; tea and whisky. I couldn’t interview him and not ask about his best and worst whisky. I’ve tried some whisky that made me feel like my insides were on fire, and it is a really awful feeling. I’m not someone who sees the appeal of getting drunk or thinking alcohol is the cure to all social situations. I like whisky because like tea, it has a comforting and warming feeling. Tea is obviously cheaper, and whisky is rarely consumed by me but when you have a bad one, it is terrible. Like anything really, right?

“It happened 3 weeks ago, as best I can remember.  Here’s the scene:  I’m playing drums for this amazingly talented musician named Lioned Cole (who just so happens to be from my hometown of ATL, Georgia, USA), and we’re hanging out in the…I dunno…hangout area with the owner of the bar/venue.  Of course he wants to meld his trumped-up sense of power with actual musical authenticity, so he trots out his bottles of really expensive Japanese scotch/whiskey and commences pouring these heroic shots whilst explaining its value. 

Look, there’s a long story about its origins and cost, but what happened is that I skulled my shots coz I thought he was yelling at me for being too slow, but I found out that he was yelling coz I drank them too quickly and failed to pay homage to their expensive and convoluted origins.  It may have been premium stuff that only rich people can afford, but it felt like firewater going down my throat.

Worst?  Is there such a thing? I guess there’s some pretty nasty stuff at the bottom of the shelf that I’m sure I’ve gotten into at one time or another, but anything will do if you put enough mixer in it.  No mixer? Who cares. Just get it down and it will do what it’s meant to do.”

I haven’t written this much in a long time. But if you can’t write highly about a pal, then who can you write about?! There were a few more questions I asked, but I wanted to keep in with a certain theme. I’m not sure if I know what it is, but for now..the rest is hidden. For a while.

Royal Chant are a band to believe and invest in. They are a comforting crutch and genuinely adore their fans. Their fans adore them.

They are a band destined to play the dingy and sweaty bars with questionable health and safety regulations. Their music is powerful in ways most miss out on doing. They could be your next favourite band because of their sheer honesty and love for what they do.

Brilliant song-writers who do not need to write ridiculous phrases in order for you to connect with the music or for you to feel something completely new. Their advantage is their love for what they do and the music they play.

The sooner they come to the UK and the rest of the world; the better.

Finally, I must add how Mark ended his email as it is possibly the best sign-off ever:

“Big hugs from down under.  Hopefully 2014 is the year we make it across the pond.  Your friend in tea, cider, whiskey, & boobs xoxo“

 

JESSIE WARE. Abbey Road Studios. 19th September 2013.

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I’ve been to some brilliant gigs in my time. Some have been in questionable places that disregard health and safety. Others have been in beautiful places that I’d be totally fine with sleeping in if no one knew I was there. Thing is, I prefer the venues that look as if they are going to fall apart and are so dark you think a door is a person, so you speak to them without realising. That could just be my shit eyesight though….

I got a phone call on Monday evening. I never answer my phone because it is always on silent and I have no idea why someone would want to call me. For some reason, I answered. I was told I had won tickets to see Jessie Ware at Abbey Road Studios on Thursday (last night.) I never win anything (okay so a week before I got an email saying I’d won tickets to see Ellie Goulding at the iTunes Festival but shush!) I hung up after all was confirmed. Told my pals who I was with, and invited one of them with me. Apparently my girlfriend should have been my first choice. OOPS! So with my pal and I excited about the gig, she got exactly the same phone call as me! What are the chances!

Let’s talk about the show now.

Abbey Road has this incredible atmosphere that just hits you as soon as you walk in. My favourite thing was the photo of Jamie Hince (The Kills) on the wall. I was thinking of ways to take it, but realised quickly the photo is as big as me so it wouldn’t work. It’s not like it was a print I could roll up and shove in my back pocket.

After indulging in the free drinks (I dislike wine but free wine tastes really nice, as do free cocktails) we shuffled towards the front. I was stood directly in front of the mic. I like to be at the front; mainly because I’m a short arse who cannot see.

Jessie strides onto the stage with the most glorious smile I’ve ever seen; thing is, during the night her smile just gets bigger and bigger. She plays pretty much all of the songs from Devotion. If you don’t own her record, you are missing out. Her voice is so beautiful. She’s my generation’s Sade mixed with Aaliyah. Throughout her set she speaks to those who have come all the way from Canada, high fives people at the front, takes photos with fans as she’s singing and pretty much has the best time ever on stage.

What made this gig really special was that, it was in an intimate venue that holds a lot of history. The chances are one of your favourite bands have probably recorded here at some point. The love in room was just simply euphoric. I’ve been to Morrissey gigs where people have tried to launch themselves at the stage, but this was something else. There is something deeply captivating about Jessie Ware, and it isn’t just her voice. You can tell that she truly loves what she does, and the sheer happiness that just pours from her falls into the crowd.

For me personally, when she sang Running for about 10 seconds whilst looking at me was delightful. As was having a photo with her afterwards, and her thanking us for being at the front. NO PROBLEM JESSIE!

Devotion is one of the best records I’ve heard in years. It has pure soul and expresses love on different. Hearing songs such as Taking In Water (written for her brother, probably my favourite) and Night Light (written for her boyfriend, but he doesn’t really like it!) live just left me in awe. The way she sings so effortlessly and is so gracious, she is undeniably the best UK female singer around. She has this genuine soulful feel to her music, and because it is so natural it just takes you over in such a magical way. Watching her made you feel like the luckiest person in the room because you were witnessing something memorable. You can tell every single song means the world to her, and I think that is what makes us fans feel the same way. Her connection with the crowd was stunning, and to have a quality like this is quite rare- which makes you instantly treasure her.

Jessie’s band are incredible. Everyone on stage has this infectious grin, and I’m pretty sure I spent the hour watching them all just grinning back like a loon! But the thing is, you really cannot help it. Live music to me, is everything. Music is a massive part of my life but live music is something else. It allows you to unleash everything with the person responsible for the sounds stood right in front of you. To not be moved by something like this is something I cannot quite get my head around. I suppose it is because music is that important to me. Shows like this will be talked about in years to come, because it was so intimate and special.

This show was made up of beautiful moments that all there were so lucky to have witnessed. What truly blew my mind, as I’ve said above was just how happy Jessie Ware is on stage. You can just tell how humble she is, and how every cheer and when word is sung back to her just means so much.

Last night made me fall in love with London even more than I already am. It was a spectacular event with brilliant people. I also now enjoy Campari. As an Italian, I feel I should and as it was in the free cocktails, I became a fan. Hopefully it will taste as good if I ever buy it… Oh and the goodie bag we were given was a treat too!

A huge thank you to Wayne who called on Monday to say I had won the tickets!

 

* The photo above was taken by my girlfriend because she’s got one of them iPhones that takes alright photos and my phone is crap!