To deal with having to spend my Summer in a really shitty place I’m going to just listen to music that makes me feel like I’m somewhere else. I’m not sure if I’d be as driven to leave if I didn’t really detest where I am. Detest sounds stronger than hate, right? Cool. I’m sticking with detest. So, I’ll keep listening to music that makes me feel like I am somewhere else until I get out. This is honestly like being in prison. SEND HELP NOW.
Sun Kin are another West Coast band that are just bloody brilliant. They come from Berkeley (CA) and are about to put their debut single out. The single is produced by a chap I think is awesome, Oliver Ignatius (he’s in Ghost Pal, you should get to know.) And much like Ghost Pal’s music, Sun Kin have that massive sound to their music. It feels homely. Much like Edward Sharpe And The Magnetic Zeros. There’s such a community feel to their music, it just feels like one big party. Other bands that are like this vary from Broken Social Scene to Sons Of An Illustrious Father. They make you feel part of the music, and as a music lover (or obsessive) this ia big thing for me.
Although they make you think there’s about 50 of them in the band; there’s only two. Kabir Kumar and Patrick James.
The single, Rust is beautiful. As is Branches Out, the b-side. For those who know they are going to have a really shit Summer- this one is for you kids!
“Have I lost my track again? Will I run the train into the wall, will I locomote until I’m dead? I’ve been acting like a child, so confused about the zest for life that I do not want.” (Branches Out.)
“No fun to hang around, feelin’ that same old way. No fun to hang around, freaked out for another day.”
Ever had a really embarrassing moment involving someone you look up to and a relative? I sure have. 10 years ago I was reading something, and I turned the page. On the next page was a full on naked photo of Iggy Pop. Next to me, was my mum. I was embarrassed and those few seconds felt like forever. It’s alright. Iggy has been one person I’ve frequently looked up to. Not because he strips off a lot, but because he just doesn’t seem to care what anyone thinks. Besides, he’s the forefront of the genre of music that owns my heart-Punk.
My love for Iggy started out when I was really young. I Wanna Be Your Dog was the song I first remember hearing. The intro just blew me away, but as soon as Iggy’s voice kicked in- I felt like I had found something I had been missing for a long time. At such a young age, you think everything is missing. As you get older you realise you are still constantly searching. You’re not entirely sure what for though. I don’t know, maybe you are. Maybe you aren’t. I guess that’s what keeps most of us alive. If I was content with who I am and my life, I’d probably throw myself off a cliff. I can’t imagine ever settling and never not thinking “There’s more than this.” I just can’t. It makes no sense to enjoy routine. Maybe it is because I get bored so easily. The only thing I don’t grow tired of is music and books. The energy that Iggy has really clicked with me. I know I move really slow, and I do enjoy a nap. But when you listen to songs such as Search And Destroy, you feel so much energy. Sorry for the really bad pun, but it is all down to RAW POWER. That’s what it is. There’s no other way.
I grew up bored. I hated where I grew up. I’m back there now, and I’m sick of it. I don’t understand why this place exists but hey- I guess it must. I’m bored with it. There’s nothing to do at all. I find myself constantly wishing for Aliens or whatever to take me away at 3am so I can go do something interesting. This constant feel of boredom surrounds me everywhere day, so I suppose that is why I felt such a connection to Iggy and his words. A lot of his music really does touch on being bored, feeling isolated and frustrated.
A lost teenager has evidently resorted in me turning into an adult who wants more from life; but has no means at all in doing so. I have nothing, and I own nothing. The most expensive thing I own are my Docs. They were about £50. I don’t own any expensive clothes, my laptop is breaking, I own 2 pairs of jeans- but you make do with what you have. Maybe I could turn my books and records into clothes. Having nothing and wanting more, to just get the fuck out really makes me connect even more with Iggy Pop. More than I did when I was 14. At 25 years old, every word he sings seems to be more and more apt.
I’ve shut off the world so many times playing The Passenger over and over. It is the perfect song to remove yourself from everything to. Iggy just has this way. I like it when an artist gives the listener the freedom to make up their own mind about what a song is about. I don’t like it when they give you a solid explanation. Music is all about freedom, so the listener should also have the freedom to make up their own meaning and make the song their own. For me, The Passenger is like the outsider of society finding comfort in it all. Finding a sense of inner peace by gazing at the street lights and drifting in and out of all that is happening during the night-time. I much prefer the night to the day. Then again, I’m probably not normal. But who truly is? Nobody.
Aged 65, Iggy is still performing (topless) and to be honest- his energy and presence really shows up some of the singers and bands that are around today. What I absolutely adore about Iggy is that he managed to be the voice of so many, and I still he is. I hope that some lost and isolated teenager in the middle of nowhere finds Iggy’s music and finds themselves in the music. I hope they carry it on into adulthood. Once you listen to Iggy, that’s it. You’re hooked completely. I can’t imagine just casually listening to his music (solo and with The Stooges.) Maybe it is because he is someone I just unconditionally have a lot of love and respect for. Maybe it is because his music kept me going through my teenage years. I’m still kicking and screaming my way through adulthood (okay maybe not screaming..just silently disliking it.) But he’s ALWAYS been there. At times his music feels like he is saying, “You know what kid? I know what it’s like to have nothing and to want to be something. You’ll get there eventually.” Maybe eventually I will.
His insane stage antics are another reason as to why I love him. Anyone who launches himself into a crowd and covers himself in peanut butter is a hero to me. Then again, I think Iggy could be the only person to get away with that kind of behaviour. See, you may think Lady Gaga is apparently “wild.” Whatever. Go watch some Iggy Pop live clips. Read some Iggy stories. I’m not saying he started that kind of behaviour, but he sure as hell brought it to the media’s attention. Everything he has ever done stays with you. From the insane stage invasions to him parading about naked to him singing the songs that sum up your thinking.
He goes so far beyond being the Godfather of Punk. He’s just this figure that has provided guidance for many generations who had no one. His music is a lifeline for those who feel drained. Feelings of exhaustion leave you as soon as you hear his distinctive voice. He manages to charge you up when you feel like you have/are nothing. He’s an incredible force that, to just describe him as a “singer” is quite disrespectful. He exceeds that, and more. One of my favourite interviews I have ever seen is the interview Faris Badwan (singer in The Horrors) did with him. To see someone interview one of their idols, and ask questions as a fan is truly beautiful and inspiring. It is one interview that constantly sticks out for me. The shyness that Faris has around Iggy, and the way Iggy is with Faris is sort of like father and son in a way. You can see him guiding Faris in a different way aside from musically. It just shows how sensitive and gentle Iggy is. His music may give you the impression that he’s some angry man. Truth is, he isn’t.
What you can take from Iggy is that you should never judge. Those that look angry or as if they may rob you are probably the most gentle beings you’ll meet. My mum says to me, “How you dress and how you are..they’re just totally different. You’re so gentle and kind.” When you watch an Iggy performance, it does make you think he’s pretty crazy. Then you read interviews or watch him being interviewed. He’s sensitive, well-spoken and well-educated. How could you not fall in love with this man?!
I honestly cannot imagine what it’d be like with someone as strong as Iggy around. He took a genre of music and made it for all. The way he commands a stage to his intelligence is so easy to feel comfortable with, and feel part of. Even if you still feel a bit lost, his music will always feel like home.
Today, I got some wonderful life advice from my Gran as I helped her do her shopping in town (I don’t just read and listen to music ya know! I sometimes go out..sometimes.) She said to me, “Liv..it is important to drink 4 cups of tea a day. 2 or 3 just isn’t enough. 4 is what you need.” I’m going to treasure that. Of course if she switched whiskey for tea I’d have been even more delighted with this advice, but it’s okay. Advice can be found anywhere. Sometimes on the back of a food item or from the mouth of your favourite person in the world. Or from a band, or a piece of literature. It usually comes to you when you least expect it. That’s when good, and also bad things happen. For instance, err..actually, I don’t have a solid example of this so I’ll just talk about this record instead.
I’ve been in love with Friends since last year. I went through a phase (it’s always been there and it will never go) of solidly listening to bands from Brooklyn. Most of the bands I listen to come from Brooklyn or LA. It wasn’t something I was really aware of until recently. I don’t know, I guess it’s because they just make the music that I really want to hear. Music I can really connect with. That’s what it is all about. Connecting to something..a person or a piece of music is just really important, for me. I’m more likely to connect to a band than a person. It’s alright, I’m denouncing my lesbian ways and just no longer caring about that part of my life. I get more joy from listening to music than appreciating someone’s beauty. Where do I sign up to be a Nun? It’s alright, I’ve gone off track again.
Friends. The band, not the shitty programme. Friends have possibly put out the most exciting album of the year. I know all my love for debut album of the year is all for 2:54. However, what Friends do to me is completely different. 2:54 make me want to walk forever and just escape. Friends (if I don’t pay too much attention to the heartbreaking lyrics) just make me want to dance. And yes, by dance I really do mean flail my limbs about. Hitting myself in the face, and probably anyone who is near me. Like most who really love this band, it all started with I’m His Girl. I just heard the first few seconds of it last year, and my mind was instantly blown. My heart was instantly won. They have this wonderful 80s/early 90s feel about them. You know what I mean? Double denim, tie-dye and bumbags (FANNY PACKS if you’re American. Call them fanny packs, makes everyone feel a bit uncomfortable.)
If you’re looking for an album to take on your summer holiday. Whether you’re going to Skegness or the South of France- this album is probably going to be the one you really need to have on constant repeat. They have this brilliant atmosphere going on, that even when you listen to them on a cold, miserable November day- you’d feel as if you were laying on a beach in July. They just fill your bones with heat. What I love about Friends is that they have this sexual energy like Peaches but have a relaxed, dream-pop feel to them. They’re just incredible.
The only downside is that those damn hipster kids are going to love this band. Thing is, they’ll just love them because they want to seem cool. Don’t they know that the term “cool” is highly redundant? Nothing and no one is cool (unless your name is Jamie Hince, Alison Mosshart, Lou Reed..then you are cool.) Sure they’re a band that those kind of kids will like, but if you really want to do the band a favour-love them because you ACTUALLY love the music. Don’t do it because you feel you have to. It’s like when you see someone wear a Ramones t-shirt and they have NO idea who the band are and what they’ve done for music. It’s why I have yet to buy a Ramones t-shirt, because I don’t want anyone to think that of me. Not that I’m one for paying attention to what anyone thinks of me. Most dislike me. It’s alright, I dislike me too. But I really fucking love Friends and I want this album to be so big. But at the same time, I don’t want them to be ruined by immature folks who use their laptop in the park you know? I don’t want that.
Alright, some of the tracks that I really love (okay so I dig the whole record but I have a few that are currently making me really happy.) Ideas On Ghosts is my favourite, EASILY. The music is currently sending my soul to a different place. I think my ghost is possibly writing down these silly words. My body feels like it has experienced something truly strange. But when you pay close attention to the lyrics in these songs you will hear a fair bit of self-doubt, heartbreak and struggle. The music on its own makes you want to have a good time. If you listen to this on your own, through headphones you will pay close attention to the lyrics. You know a band is really fucking good when they can disguise pain through upbeat music. I love music that does that. Pretty sure most of my music collection consists of bands that do this. Freud would love that shit.
Ruins is just over 2 minutes long, but there’s a build-up in this song that is so bloody powerful. There’s a lot of funk and disco influence in this record. You know how I hate the word “sexy.” Well, as much as I hate that word- this record is truly sexy. It makes you want to dance. It makes you want to sit in a park or on the beach just watching everything and everyone pass you by. Maybe it’s the album you will find your summer love to. Or maybe it’s the album that’ll help you get over a love. Maybe it’ll just make you have a decent summer, you probably do it. Even songs such as Sorry, which is quite sad, will still make you want to dance or move about.
I love everything about this record. As far as debut records go, I can imagine this being one someone finds in 10/20 years time in a discount section in a record store (please let them still be around) and they’ll pick it up and think, “You know…I remember this band. This record really did something to me. I’m going to buy it again!” I want that to happen. It’ll probably be me that does that anyway.
So, go support an amazing band from BK! Go support your local record store, and buy Manifest! by Friends.
As much as I love music that makes me feel like I am being smacked about the face and having my insides ripped out. There is a part of me that enjoys music that is a bit tranquil. Music that is opposite to what I usually listen to. I don’t favour genres, I just like music that sounds quite brutal at times. What I have accidentally just exposed my ears to is easily one of the most stunning voices I have heard in a long time.
I love singers such as Cat Power and Feist. Singers that truly use their own voice as the main instrument. Anything else is just an addition. Their voices carry them. As gentle as their voices are, it is enough to stop you in your tracks and just listen. Their voices are so delicate. Every song echoes in your ear as a story you wish you told. But you take it all in. Sure your heart breaks because it is such a beautiful moment, but it doesn’t really matter because all that matters is that moment where you feel so bloody alive as this gentle piece of music takes you over.
So who is responsible for doing this to me on this grim and boring Tuesday evening? Idiot Wind. Before Idiot Wind she was known as Hajen and Jaw Lesson..I think? Her real name is Amanda. But for now, you can get to know her as Idiot Wind. Despite these various alias, her voice has always been a constant. Her voice is so angelic. You treasure every single word. You fall in love with her voice straight away. I honestly don’t recall the last time I heard a voice like this that just captivated me straight away. She has the same vulnerability in her voice like one of my main inspiritations- Cat Power. I have no idea who Idiot Wind has ever been likened to, but I think the only suitable artist is Cat Power. Both have that darkness in their voice that is haunting but at times you are blessed with sounds so pure and delicate.
When you hear something that is so innocent and honest, you feel part of it. You feel as if it was meant for you. Most bands and singers that I am in love with have been found by accidents. So when someone says to you, “you’ll have an accident doing that!” Don’t sweat it, it’s totally fine. Good things come from accidents (unless your nose or something falls off!)
Her debut album is coming out this year, and her debut EP was released a few years ago I think. She fully backs the theory that any band or singer from Sweden is pretty much incredible. Swedish bands seem to posses so much emotion in their music, creating such an atmospheric vibe without having to overproduce or play over the top riffs in order to amaze you. They posses such a basic quality that makes you connect. It is just you and them. That’s all you need. Simple things are sometimes all you need. Idiot Wind (Bob Dylan song, taken from Blood On The Tracks) creates music from the heart and just elevates your soul. Passionate, stripped back and soulful. She deserves your attention.
You don’t understand how much I have been wanting this record. You just don’t. If you did, I’d probably want us to be best friends so we can bond over this. Seriously, I feel like the wait for this record has gone on for what seems FOREVER. Although, forever doesn’t exist. It is just an illusion we present to others in order to give them hope or comfort. Truth be told, we are going to be left behind and we will all do the leaving at some point too. Cheerful mood tonight! (I’m not really in a shit mood, but I would like to go to sleep right about now.)
Crocodiles are one of my favourite bands. You know it, they know it. I seriously cannot put into words how much I smiled (and most likely swore) when I saw Brandon had read what I wrote a few weeks ago. His kind words mean so much to me, and I carry them with me. When you can tell a band how much you love them, and they are so kind to you- that’s when you fully know your love for them goes beyond. I discovered Crocodiles in a heartbreaking haze and my desperate days were dragging. I listened to them, and all hope came back. No desperation, no longing for all that was metaphorically dead and gone. I found romanticism in the shit feelings I was carrying around. How I immediately felt towards Crocodiles is how I imagine many felt when they first heard The Jesus And Mary Chain. All the reverb and distortion that was soothing my ears and healing my heart made me kick my frustrations and love based hurt to the curb and move on. Always thank the ones who metaphorically break you- because you turn into a better person.
Summer Of Hate and Sleep Forever are two fantastic records that I hold with such high regard. Not just for the emotional attachment I have, but for how bloody brilliant they are. Are Brandon and Charles geniuses?! I think so. I bloody well think so. So, with two phenomenal records to their name- what on earth can they achieve with Endless Flowers?
Endless Flowers is surprise surprise, PERFECT. I’d never write a bad review. I don’t have it in me to do so. If it is bad, I leave it alone and never acknowledge. I love writing about something that is so passionate, dark yet hopeful. I love music that makes you feel like you are not here. I love music that just makes you come alive. I love music that makes you connect with it in a way that makes you want to have some kind of outburst and tell everyone about it. My thoughts on this record aren’t as important as some hipster twats perspective…obviously. They probably dig Crocodiles because they want to seem cool. I love the band because they truly saved me from hitting lower than rock bottom. But hey- this kind of love is never taken on board. It’s all about the ratings and what it sounds like. I’m not like that. I won’t compare the record, nor will I give it marks out of ten. All I’m going to do is attempt to write how amazing Endless Flowers is.
The album should be held up as one of the finest records of the year. It is perfectly perfect from start to finish. We live in a world where we seem to be content with anything that is half-arsed and made to just kill time, fill some space. Music is heading that way too. It breaks my heart, but it is happening. I guess this is why I adore bands like Crocodiles because they make brutal music that just makes you come alive. It mixes everything I love about music. There’s the big drums (similar to 60s girl groups), you have the fuzzy guitars that just make your head so fucked up you cannot help but flail your limbs about. Then you have Brandon’s vocals which, as awfully clichéd as it sounds- his vocals on this record sound so powerful and so much stronger. His vocals aren’t as gritty as they were, but he still posses that raw vibe that caused me to fall in love with Crocodiles back in the summer of 2009.
My Surfing Lucifer makes you feel RIGHT. I think if Lester Bangs was alive, he’d really love this song. I believe he’d love Crocodiles. The song is so strange, and utterly wonderful. Much like the whole record. I think personally, my favourite track so far has to be No Black Clouds For Dee Dee. It is so beautiful, romantic and passionate. Every word is so delicately sung. It is like Brandon caresses every single word he sings. I also have fallen deeply in love with Dark Alleys. These two are joint favourites.
What I love about Crocodiles is that, they have this brilliant way of making you feel as if you are watching them rehearse. They have such a personal feel to their sound, as if it was only meant for you. That you are there witnessing them craft these sounds. A true basement band vibe going on. As much as I adore Summer Of Hate and Sleep Forever, with Endless Flowers- it just sounds like a huge leap. It sounds NOTHING like the first two, which is what I love in a band. To keep making music that sounds nothing like what they have done before. It is why I love bands like The Horrors, The Kills, Beach House etc. Every record just sounds entirely different, but at the same time reminds you why you fell in love with them. You fall in love with them a bit more when you hear something new. It is almost like it reaffirms your love for them.
The dark feel is alive and well in this record, but if you listen carefully you will hear some of the most beautiful lyrics you’ll hear in a long time. It is as intense as ever and so fucking raw. The bold but vulnerable songs just make you connect so much. Maybe you’ve just had your heart torn out and Crocodiles are your new discovery. If that’s the case, then I understand. I can only hope they do to you, what they do to me. It is just a perfect record from start to finish, I honestly cannot praise it enough. Fight the fury, and immerse yourself in something truly stunning.
Sometimes a band does something to you that makes you feel like you have felt the most wonderful feeling ever in life. When you hear this band or a specific song, everything you feel is heightened. You cannot control what your limbs do and all that floats around your head. You fall out of yourself and you find something else to sink so deep into. It’s like being in love, but without the nagging. It is a sense of freedom and feeling utterly content with your surroundings. I first felt this way when I first heard A Forest by The Cure. How that song makes me feel, I compare to most bands/singers. If I don’t feel this way when I listen to something, I won’t be a fan. However, sometimes my affections are delayed. It all depends. How I feel about Warpaint, well, you know how I feel about them. Everything they make me feel is EXACTLY how I felt the first time I heard A Forest. Every single time I play Warpaint my whole frame of mind changes. It is almost like meditating in a way. I don’t know what the exact word is for how I feel; but it truly is like being in a euphoric state. Warpaint have had this reign over me since 2009, I know it won’t go away. Yet, could I ever feel this way about a band again? YES. In short, YES. Late 2010 I heard a song called Creeping. I didn’t pay much attention to it, but every so often I’d listen to it and just feel something I couldn’t put into words. Then I delved deeper into the band, and it became much like how I feel about Warpaint. By “much like” I mean EXACTLY the same.
2:54 make me sway, shut my eyes and go some place where another could never take me. I’ve been waiting for their debut record for SO long. I think this proves just how patient I am. My love for my favourite musical siblings (best siblings in music) goes beyond. To even try put into words how much I love their debut record is going to mentally exhaust me. It’s cool because I’ve had hardly any sleep, and when that happens I have an outburst. I have no idea how I function most of the time. I’ll try to write this in a way that makes sense. It won’t though.
Their debut record sounds like something a band that have been going decades would create. The production is so bloody perfect. Everything. The bass, the drums, the guitar, the vocals. All of it. It is just like a chunk of Heave echoing in your ears, making your bones tremble and shake. You find yourself slipping into some strange trance as you listen to this album. Part of you wants to stay still, the other part of you seems to think jolting your body is the best way to go about this. Do what you want.
This record will make you happy. It’ll make you aroused. Your body will move, your will nod your head in a way that may cause a headache afterwards. You will feel every beat in every song. You just cannot sit still. There is something extremely special about this record. It has a haunting feel to it that just sounds so powerful and beautiful. For every nightmare you have, there is a dream waiting to come out from it. From every demon you have to chase away, something good will eventually happen after the fight, This record is like a symbol of this. It’s something so truly special, I really cannot express it enough. I’m going to call it as DEBUT record of the year. There’s no other way of putting it. It’s on a different level to everything out now, which is probably why it’ll be overlooked. Dear Sod’s Law, kindly piss off.
2:54 have this way of making you feel as if you are leaving your body as you listen to them. When the record ends, the only way to deal with the harsh reality is to keep playing the record. I spent most of today travelling from Birmingham back to my mum’s (Isle of Man, sadly.) I had the album on repeat. Everything just felt better. I’m trying my hardest to write this in a way that isn’t personal, but I can sense I am about to fuck up soon. Although I am trying to do this, I hold a lot of sentimental value to the album. Easy Undercover is lyrically my favourite, probably because it sums up how I feel right now. “If you go, you will never know.”I am terribly good at leaving something and never finding out. I just adore the album.
When you wait for so long, you sometimes become a bit dubious and wonder if it’ll be worth waiting for. The impression a debut record leaves will always be greater than any other. A false start can fuck it up forever. Obviously 2:54 have gone beyond all expectations. Every song has creepy riffs and haunting vocals that are enough to make you want to start your own band. (I really want to start a Garage rock tribute band of the Backstreet Boys and call ourselves Alleyway Whores..anyone?!)
They have a hold on you that you are fully okay with. To let go or to even turn a blind eye to 2:54 would be utterly foolish. They really do deserve to be bloody huge. I have a feeling it is going to be how I listen to Warpaint- an utterly sacred experience.
I could easily have summed all of this up by saying it is brilliant, but when you know a band have put their all into something- then you must do the same in return. This is an extremely atmospheric record that will cover you in goose-bumps, and for every part of you that you feel is lost- you will find it in this record. Their debut record has the darkness of Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, the eerie feel that is found in Seventeen Seconds by The Cure and the power of sending you deep into another universe much like Warpaint. Put that all together and you have something truly remarkable and something you must treasure. Colette’s vocals remind me of Siouxsie Sioux. The way she lingers on every word, and sings with such passion really does place a firm hold around your heart.
If you buy this record, your collection will look a billion times sexier.
You wait and you wait. You wait until you want to cry because it hurts to wait. You want to destroy any record that isn’t THIS record. Then it comes out, or the band stream it before it comes out. Your body freezes. You cannot form words. Your mind resembles this : “FKESORJEROITUPOGJUEPOUFKJSDTUIEYOGAQHU!!!!!!!” You want to go up to people and just tell them about this record. You want to tell them EVERYTHING it makes you feel. Thing is, you no of nobody who will give two fucks about what you feel. So what do you do? You play the record, and you unleash all your emotions into some kind of review in the hopes someone responds with, “I understand. I feel the same.” That’s all you search for. You want someone to connect to the bullshit you write. Thing is, it is your feelings, so it cannot be bullshit. You hope that a Metric fan far (or near maybe) away reads it and loves the record as much as you do.
With that brief outburst done (there’s going to be more) I’m not even sure if I can control how I feel right now. I don’t think I can. You see, all of Metric’s record mean the world to me. I cannot pick a favourite song or record. I love each very much. Each record holds a lot of meaning to me. Live It Out gives me hope. Fantasises got me through hell. Old World Underground is always going to be my “baby.” Grow Up And Blow Away is perfect. Even their EPs are held as highly. I just don’t think I can put all my love out there . I just can’t.
A change of pace is always needed, but cling onto your youth kids. That is the vibe you are going to get from this record. If you don’t enjoy it, maybe you’ve got too much wax in your ears.
When I interviewed Jimmy and Emily in 2009 it was right after I got dumped. I was totally fine speaking to Jimmy. It was more about the musicianship about the band. As soon as I spoke to Emily, I felt myself just become a mess. At some point I just blurted out why Blindness means the world to me. We spoke about that for a while. I listened back to the interview straight after it was over. It was too personal for me to type up, and I took a vow to never ever type it up. Maybe one day I’ll stop being such an arse and type it up. I’m not sure. Thing is, when you feel that low you want to do all you can to never go back there again. It’s fair to say I’ve never felt that way again. If it happens again, I’ll probably heal myself by typing it up again.
Should probably talk about the record now.
The album opens with the powerful and heart-hitting Artificial Nocturne. It’s 5 minutes and 42 seconds of heaven. I adore the line, “I’m just as fucked up as they say.”I am pretty sure us Metric fans are going to fall so in love with that line and quote it anywhere and everywhere we can. We can be fucked up together, right? This record won’t fuck you up. It’ll fix you up- no problem.
The record is basically a dreaming state. It makes you feel like you are dreaming because it is so bloody ethereal. I cannot find any fault in it. Every song has a euphoric build-up. Every song is perfect in its own way. Every song is the song that sums up how you feel. Every song makes you feel so fucking alive.
Now, I’m going to address something real quick because I reckon it’ll pop up. Remember when dicks said Metric sold out when they did a song for the Twilight soundtrack? As someone who doesn’t understand why someone would enjoy Twilight, I was a bit dubious that my favourite band were going to be part of something I really dislike. I heard the song. I became obsessed with the song. It is a gorgeous love song that makes you think maybe..just maybe, someone will feel this way about you. Or maybe you’ll feel this way about someone. I’m going to assume people will say Metric have sold out with this record. Take yourself away, you cannot call yourself a fan. A band cannot keep making the same record over and over. That’s why I adore Metric. Every record they have put out (I’m including EPs in this) has been different to the previous. They are a band that do not fall into any genre at all.
Synthetica by rights, should make lists of BEST THING TO HAPPEN IN 2012. You see, as it is so close to perfection I think the only people who are going to appreciate this record are the fans. The REAL fans who cling onto every single word Emily sings. Her voice makes you feel like you are floating on a cloud towards happiness. Her voice has got me through some fucking bullshit. Her voice has been comforting arms at 4am when I just didn’t know what to do. I never know what I am meant to do. I may follow my heart, but I have no idea where it is taking me. She has a voice that makes you stare up at the stars, and you feel like you are heading home. Home doesn’t have to be where you currently live. Get up and get the fuck out. Save yourself, because nobody else ever will.
Lyrically, this album is beyond. What I love about Metric is that they have NEVER used pretentious word forms and phrases in order for you to understand. Their words are at a level that make you connect instantly. You connect, and you never ever let go. Every song on Synthetica makes you feel like it was written for YOU. You feel as if Emily is just singing out everything you have been holding in for sometime. When you listen to Synthetica it is like you can let it all go. Let it all out, then let it go. Metric have always written songs that just feel like a huge healing process, I don’t really know of any other band that make me feel this way. You’ve already seen what Emily said what the record was about and all it stands for. But, incase you missed what she said :
“SYNTHETICA is about staying home and wanting to crawl out of your skin from the lack of external stimulation. SYNTHETICA is about forcing yourself to confront what you see in the mirror when you finally stand still long enough to catch a reflection. SYNTHETICA is about being able to identify the original in a long line of reproductions. It’s about what is real vs what is artificial. What else?
SYNTHETICA is about insomnia, fucking up, fashion, all the devices and gadgets attached to our brains, getting wasted, watching people die in other countries, watching people die in your own country, dancing your ass off, questioning the cops, poetic justice, standing up for yourself, sex, the apocalypse, doing some stupid shit and totally regretting it but then telling everyone it made you stronger, leaving town as a solution to unsolvable problems, owning your actions and owning your time.”
When I read this description, I felt my body become covered in goosebumps because I was filled with hope, joy and every positive feeling I could handle. As I listen to this record, I realise that all Emily said Synthetica is- it truly truly is, and more. It has gone so far beyond what I expected. I have no idea what I expected, but I knew it was going to be incredible. I guess my biased opinion didn’t let me down on this one.
So I guess you can call this a really bad album review. I didn’t really review it. Why should I? I just wanted to tell you that Metric are about to put out one of the best records of the year, and these songs…christ..these songs are going to do something to your soul. The Wanderlust features Lou Reed and that alone pretty much cements this as one of the best records of the year. The production is stunning, as with all their records. The musicianship is as tight as ever. This is well and truly worth the wait.
“I won’t ever make them make a loser out of my soul.”
“You’ll see I’ll make it easy for you. Just one blink and I’ll help you to break through.”
I fell asleep in the garden earlier whilst listening to Warpaint. Pretty sure the heat went to my head, so anything I type as per, will make no sense. At least I have a decent excuse this time. I don’t have one for anything before. So you can be right to assume I’m just a twerp really.
There’s a lot of things I love about life. Tea, books and cute animals. I also have a lot of love reserved for anything that is Punk/stemmed from that genre and strong women. Today is the birthday of a woman is not only a strong force but, also emerged from the Punk scene. I’d never call Siouxsie a Punk, but I know many would. It all depends I suppose. I’d just call her an icon to be honest. So, with this I’ll just attempt to delve into the reasons as to why I love her, and why she is still so bloody important.
For the most part, the music industry has been dominated by large men in ill-fitting suites who just see currency signs when looking at a person. That’s nice and all, but let’s be real here- that shit is a bit worthless. You can sell millions with one record, and nobody will care for you after that. You’ll probably be found sleeping behind a bin down near Charing Cross begging for change whilst scratching at yourself. What I’m trying to say is, people will leave you rotting at rock bottom when they cannot see any worth in you. Thing is, you don’t have to be famous for this to happen. Ever been abandoned by a group of people? Get in line kid, I’ll let you stand next to me. We’ll talk about it.
With an artist such as Siouxsie, it really didn’t matter if she told 8 million or 8 records. What mattered was that she was so different to anything and everything around. She was so unique. She dressed in a way you wish you could. If you dolled yourself up like her now, you’d probably be looked at like you have 12 heads. But forget what people say you know? Go out there and dress like her if you want. I’ll probably think you look fabulous.
The first time I saw Siouxsie’s face I just knew I wanted to be part of that world. It was around the time my stepdad put me onto The Cure properly. He told me about the history between Robert Smith and when he played with Siouxsie. I was so amazed and obsessed with this. I was fascinated, and I resented my age because I wish I could’ve witnessed this myself, just like he and so many others did. I was born in the wrong place at the wrong time. I’ll never believe I was meant for this time, but hey- make do of what you are, and all you have. I know that.
It is hard to put into words how much you borderline idolise a person. It wasn’t just her voice and music that made me look up to her, it was the way she carried herself. When you can see how strong a person is, mixed with a hint of fragility in their eyes once in a while- you truly connect with that. Maybe that’s just me, but that is always what I look for. Her lyrics, I must say are utterly powerful and quite heartbreaking. If you can tear yourself away from the hypnotising sounds, you will hear just how powerful and borderline political her lyrics are. It will always piss me off when people call them Goth. I think it annoys me when anyone tries to label Siouxsie & The Banshees to be honest. Siouxsie’s voice is one that you can hear in so many. From Shirley Manson to PJ Harvey. I live in hope that some singers that are emerging now are still influenced by her. Her voice holds so much. It is delicate but it also has a lot of fight in it. You can hear the fury in her voice as she unleashes words of poison. Yet it doesn’t harm you, oh no. It makes you feel like you are part of this movement that The Banshees created. Siouxsie went beyond being a singer. Her gender played no part, but it sure as hell helped so many female singers at the time find their own voice, and follow their dreams.
There is so much a person could say about Siouxsie. I mean, everything about her is just so remarkable and bloody inspiring. She makes you want to vocalise all that plagues you, and start a riot of your own. I used to look at her photo and wish I was as tough as her. I still do. It happens when I look at her, Patti Smith and Shirley Manson. They are three incredible females that deserve a lot, a hell of a lot more respect and recognition for what they have done, and still continue to do. I may not be a famous musician who can speak up about how they inspire me, I just do it in my own little way. Maybe it is when I wear one of my Siouxsie shirts, and I feel a sense of pride and maybe a little bit of strength be embedded in me. Small things. It all takes time. I’m not one for going fast, so I’m okay with it all.
I have sung my heart out in my room and danced like I was having a seizure to her music. That will never change. Once someone touches your heart in a deep and raw way- they never truly leave. You can associate that to lovers if you want, but I wouldn’t. Aside from singing with Morrissey, I just…man I don’t even know. She is a truly flawless human being who maybe isn’t aware of what she means to so many. I sure as hell hope she does.
We need more strong women like Siouxsie around now. Especially now. There is empowerment in the words that roll off the tip of your tongue and what you think; not in the clothes you wear. I’m far too old-fashioned at times, but that’s how I am. I learnt how to hold a view on something and not let it go (without being disrespectful of course) from the likes of Siouxsie.
She finally received the Inspiration Award at the Ivor Novello Awards this year, it should’ve happened years before. But hey, better late than never right?
I’ve tried writing this about five times now. Maybe it’s a sign that I shouldn’t bother. However, I feel I have to. Not many will care for this band. I can’t see how a person couldn’t, but I’m just being biased. I love this band more than I can even understand. About a year ago they called it quits. What do they call it..a “hiatus.” That’s the really bad H word isn’t it. I don’t know what the other one is really. Anyway, Silverchair. A band that dragged me through secondary school when all I wanted to do was never see a face again in that hell hole. If you were ever bullied, you’d understand. But I got tough and..hid in the library. Story of my life really. So, when they announced this break they were going on, I felt a bit of my heart crumble away. Much like it did when The Long Blondes broke up. Except, I never got over that. I never have and I know I never ever will. Silverchair saved my mind. I owe it to a friend. I remember her showing me the cover to Freak Show, and she let me borrow the CD. I went home and had it on repeat. Did it change my life? I think it is fair to say it did.
For me, Daniel Johns is one of the greatest guitarists ever. Although I fully appreciated the band’s musicianship it was the lyrics that made my head spin and my heart feel less alone. As I got older, certain songs became everything I felt but couldn’t vocalise. Miss You Love for instance was a song that held so much relevance for a long time. I guess it still does. For me the song is about someone who has no idea what to do with love. I’m not entirely sure if I know what I would do, or if I ever will. I think most are like that. We have a view on ourselves to make ourselves attractive to others. I’ve gone past that. I’ve never been one for impressing another person. I wouldn’t know how to do it. If you’re impressed by someone who can do an impression of some South Park quotes or can recite Edgar Allan Poe or John Cooper Clarke poems- then I am available. Not for much though, I’m fussy. I think? I don’t know. Just don’t be a cunt.
Their lyrics summed up angst ridden teens everywhere. Thing is, you can still be an angst ridden adult. It just seems to be frowned upon. Or you are called grumpy. I’m not grumpy (please don’t wake me up if I’ve said I’m going for a nap though) I just hate unfairness, and I like to point it out when I see it. Songs such as Emotion Sickness and Anthem For The Year 2000 really do touch on being massively pissed at society, and quite rightly so. They didn’t word songs in a way that nobody couldn’t connect to. What you MUST remember is how young they were when they started out. They were living out the frustrations. Sadly, Daniel Johns was living out his own nightmare. Yet he came through the other end. Truly showing himself to be a person well worth looking up to, I know I did. And I still do.
Aside from being pissed at society, the self-deprecation in their lyrics made them easy to connect with. All too often, when growing up you are told to dress, think,feel,be,act a certain ways. You aren’t encouraged to think and speak freely. You have a limit to your freedom, that alone can cause so much fucking frustration inside. They ripped out all your frustrations and put it out there. They hung out every ugly feeling possible, and you felt less alone. You felt less disgusted with your own reflection. Am I the only one who feels this way about them? I hope not.
Hand on heart, Neon Ballroom is one of my favourite records of all time. It is heartbreaking and it is a healing process. I recommend anyone who feels a bit lost to invest in this record. It may not fully cure you, but it will ease the tension you have inside. Every song is dark, but you find bits of hope in this record. You find them in weird places. That’s the good thing about music, you can find a way to plough on through in places and sounds you never thought you could. It used to be a record I couldn’t listen to often because of all it meant to me. As I get older (still a bit lost) I see the record for what it is. A reflection of a generation that needed to be heard. Silverchair were the voice for so many, and I hope they still are. They’re a band that you connect with so deeply that introducing them to a friend seems like a hard task because of the lyrics. You know it’s easy to go up to someone and say, “Hey have you heard the new song by The Strokes?” or something because The Strokes are a band that you can listen to over and over- no part of you will feel an ugly amount of pain when you listen to them. Listen to certain songs by Silverchair and you may feel a wee bit fragile afterwards. They’re not a band for those who love upbeat, happy pop songs. Far from it.
Yet, there was positivity to be found on Young Modern. I’ll be honest with you though, I really didn’t enjoy that record. I don’t need to go into detail as to why I didn’t. It just happens I guess doesn’t it. You cannot like everything.
Silverchair, unlike most bands that firmly have a place in my heart didn’t win me over like the other did. They didn’t make me want to write. Instead, they made every angsty emotion I was carrying around less daunting. Less heavy to carry. They made, for most of my time at school, it easier to wake up every day and drag myself there. I guess you can say they kept me alive, in a way. They started out when they were only 12 years old. For a band to write songs like that at such a young age is not only incredible, it is inspiring too.
They may never make another record again, but what we do have is enough to still fall back on when everything seems a bit messed up.
I took a walk just now. Whilst walking, a Metric song came on and it just made me realise that it is okay to be my age (25) and still be a dreamer. Someone who isn’t always sure of everything around them, but knows what they want. They do all they can to get it, but something gets in the way. That something at times, holds you back. But you still keep going. Sometimes a song is all it takes for you to keep on dreaming. To keep everything in you alive. It is hard, I bloody well know it is. You see, I’ve been a freelancing fool for 6 and a half years now. I’ve had this site since early 2008. I’ve had times where I wanted to just say “Fuck this..fuck it all. I can’t no more.” The constant self-doubt I carry on my back keeps me going. If I ever thought I was good at something, I wouldn’t do it. The self-doubt makes me work harder I guess. If I didn’t write, I’d probably be sectioned. I’d gnaw at my hands and rip my eyes out from frustration. Yet, for some stupid reason, I feel the need to write. I have no idea who reads this. Or even why someone would read the nonsense I write, but I just want to thank you. If I could buy you a cup of tea and hug you- I would. If you’re a friend of mine, that’s pretty cool. But I know none of my friends read this. It’s cool. I’m pretty sure most read this and think, “What the hell is this idiot doing? I can do better than her. She’s useless.” Probably. You probably can. I do it for the love of music. I don’t do it for any other reason. I know I want to make a living from this, but truth be told-I never will. I guess you cannot put a price on something you love. So this is going to be a collection of songs that make me feel alright with being a dreamer, I guess. Thing is, I know what the reality around me is. I’m not happy with it, but only I can change it.
Maybe one day, one of my daft dreams will come true. Maybe one day I’ll get some poetry published. Maybe I’ll write a book. Maybes are okay- but you cannot live off them. Keep the dream alive, and do what you need to do. The following songs just give me hope, in their own unique non-conventional way.
Beat In My Bones. 