Jess Morgan-Aye Me.

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Pledge Music is a bloody saviour for music. You know why? Because it helps artists like Jess Morgan get their music heard. Personally, I see it as a nice middle finger salute to the idiots who endorse X-Factor wasters with NO talent and won’t even see the year out. Jess Morgan on the other hand is the total opposite.

I’m not really into the whole Folky thing. Well, the traditional sense, I am. But what’s around now? No thanks. You can keep it and place it somewhere no one wishes to go. It means nothing to me. I don’t want to hear about how your heart is broken as you stand on the stage staring at the floor, with your mundane personality. No thank you. I’ll take Jess Morgan though. This music has heart and soul. That’s all I want from music. Heart and soul. I’ve said this before about Jess, she truly does standout from all the others. She has SOMETHING that I wish I could put into words. I’m clearly a wanky Music Writer when I say I don’t have the words. It’s just hard to describe something that is so pure and beautiful because you feel that whatever you say will not do it justice at all. But, I’m going to try anyway.

I am so bloody impressed that Jess has supported Ellen And The Escapades and First Aid Kit- this is on the back of just ONE record. I’m not usually easily impressed, but with music- it’s a much simpler process. Her second record, Aye Me is a stunning body of art. You know if I didn’t like it, I wouldn’t bother writing about it. It is such a lovely record.

You know the dreaded second album curse? That happened to Jess. Recordings of the record were lost, so she had to start again. But hey, what’s life without a few minor hitches right? The end result is just a glorious second record that I hope (I know she is) she is proud of. If you’re wanting songs that talk about love, lust, heartache and those kind of feelings- you won’t find it here. Aye Me is storytelling at its finest. This is a kind of record you play around a fire. Except, I won’t. Because I am shite around fire. I once nearly set fire to my books whilst trying to light candles. Romance isn’t dead, but it can turn you into an accidental arsonist!

Leave A Light On is 5 minutes of positive energy. It just makes you shrug everything off, and feel content with your surroundings. The first single off the record, Workhouse is beautiful. I think though, if I have to pick a favourite, I’d go for Ugly Women or Since I’ve Known You, but this is only from one listen. I’ll change my mind after listening to it another 5 times. It is a beautiful and pure record from start to finish. There’s no pretentious vibes- it is an easy record to fall in love with, so just allow yourself to do so. You probably will with first listen like I did.

Jess is heading out in tour very very soon. You can get all the details from her site : http://www.jessmorgan.co.uk/

She is also heading out on tour with Paper Aeroplanes in May. I’d like to kindly suggest you catch her on tour, wherever you can. You will NOT be disappointed (okay so I haven’t seen her yet, but I will try my best to!)

Aye Me is out on 26th March. There is still time left for you to pledge at : http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/jessmorgan

I’ve said it before, so of course I’ll say it again- support the REAL independent artists who are in it for the music, and the love of it.

Rusty Bear-Source To Sea.

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I wrote over 1000 words originally, and the computer decided to bail as soon as I went to publish this. So what I am going to do is assume that what I wrote the first time round wasn’t good enough, and this is a sign to do better. If I go with this thought, I will  want to throw the computer out of the window and kick the router. I will try to remember as much as I can, but I have a really bad memory most of the time…

As someone who is half from Yorkshire (my mum is from sunny Doncaster) I feel like I need to fully back Rusty Bear and Mollusc Records with all I have. So I will.

Before I attempt to give you some kind of album review, I am going to hit you up with some FUN FACTS about Rusty Bear. You ready? Okay.

– The name comes from a French beer, Rusty Bière. I’ve never tried it, and I’m not a fan of beer to be honest. Wine on the other hand…

-Some of the tracks were done in an outside toilet/coal shed. I cannot tell you how impressed I am by this. You probably aren’t but for me- it shows just how important it was for Matthew to make music that he would record anywhere…even in toilet.

For now, they are the facts I am giving you. If you’re lucky I may throw in some more throughout this review. I say it is a review, but it isn’t. It’s just me trying to get you to listen to music that deserves your attention. Okay, so maybe it is a review but I refuse to let it be some generic bullshit like, “This album is really good. There are some nice songs on this record that you may like.” Bollocks! If an artist or band put their all into a record then I feel I need to return the favour by giving my full attention to it, and writing something about the record with all I have. Besides, I can only write from the heart anyway.

As far as debut records go, this one has some pretty solid production about it. You probably won’t believe me, but I am obsessed with the production side of things. I love hearing something that isn’t overproduced or too polished. I love being able to hear something that sounds raw and has possible flaws in it. Obviously I’m not saying this record has any flaws in it at all so far from it. It’s almost like, when you are in love with someone and, you just love them. You love the bones of them, and you even find their faults endearing and you just love them even more. That’s pretty much how Source To Sea makes me feel. The record was produced by Xander Edwards and was mastered by Carl Saff (worked with Real Estate) for a debut record, this is a pretty big deal you know.

I’ve rambled a bit, so I guess I should tell you which songs I love. I would, except…I pretty much love every single track. I spent most of the afternoon listening to Source To Sea, and just finding new parts to love. I could say I love Moth but then I’d listen to the record again and find it is actually Russian Horse that I love. So it is just safer if I say that every track is stunning. I’m going to sound mental but the track Falling Stones makes me imagine someone being chased though a dark, neglected woods by someone holding a rusty (I’m sorry!) hammer or something. It has that sinister feel to it, which I absolutely adore. This is the kind of feeling I look for in music. Something that scares me and causes my imagination to run wild. It does make me sound mental, I know. I like to think it is endearing, it gets me though. I love the song If She. It just feels like a wonderful piece of advice that I’ll probably have to take on board at some point…again!

I’m probably not going to be able to get this back up to 1000 words again, am I? Well, I’m going to keep trying anyway.

Rusty Bear/Matthew moved from Yorkshire to London (I’ll probably mention the fact he’s from the best county as often as I can, just because) and he is proving that Arctic Monkeys aren’t the only Yorkshire folk that can make some noise. I’m not going to do the whole, “If you like…then you’ll like Rusty Bear.” If you love honest and heartfelt music- then you will love this. That’s the only thing I can give you. At times this record does have its dark moments but at best it just feels like a lovely warm cuddle. I don’t think I’ve ever said that about a record before, and I think I hate myself for saying something so daft- but it’s all I have to be honest. It just makes you feel content and safe- but can leave you on edge at times. The fact that you can tell that this record was made with such drive, honesty and heart makes me love it even more. When you can find that in a record, you know you are listening to something so special and sacred. Listening to this record is a partially sacred experience mainly because you know that not everyone will be hearing it. Which is a good and bad thing. It’s good because no one can take that private moment from you. It is bad because the whole world needs to hear it.

So here’s the thing, as I want EVERYONE to hear this record- I am going to fully endorse Rusty Bear and all of the Mollusc Records family as much as I can. The fact that they are Yorkshire based has NOTHING to do with it (I’m such a crap liar aren’t I?!) I will always support something I believe in, and want everyone to hear. I’m just one person but, I like to think someone will read this and check out Rusty Bear. I live in hope, I have to.

Source To Sea will be released 26th March. For more information about Rusty Bear and Mollusc Records, you can check out the following links:

http://molluscrecords.co.uk/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mollusc-Records/18118

http://soundcloud.com/mollusc-records7661960721

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rusty-Bear/303757273003789

Looks like I did hit over 1000 words 😉

On a serious note, I know it is nice and all to support big acts and whatever, but we NEED to keep supporting Independent labels and artists. This is where you find the honest and passionate stuff. This is why I will be fully backing Mollusc Records.

Ellie Herring-Satiate

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When I wrote about Ellie Herring last summer, I said how it was about time we had a female producer/musician as good as this. I know gender isn’t important- but society does like to bang on about gender roles and how we should be. Fuck it. Fuck with your gender, and break the rules. Who cares.

That out of the way…

Satiate is Ellie’s new record, and I’m going to attempt to tell you why and how it is vital that you listen to it. I’ll just throw it out there now, I wish I could make music like this. If I won the lottery (oh the things I would do!) I’d probably pay for Ellie to come to my house and do a mini gig. It’s incredible. But, I do need to attempt to go into detail as to why I love her music.

Ellie’s music, and especially the new record had a beautiful electro euphoric vibe. Its is the kind of music you’d play during the summer at night, whilst laying on the beach with the tide slowly coming in. You don’t fear for your life or if the waves will eventually take you because the music puts you in such a calming state- nothing can snap you out of it. Even now, just sat here trying to figure out how to write about this record is slowly making me sleepy (I really need a nap…) but it is so beautiful. You know when you hear something, and the sheer beauty of it just leaves you in awe? Like, you really cannot understand why the person making this music isn’t huge. You feel all of this, and it makes the listen much more sacred.

Musically, it is as dark as Zola Jesus and Fever Ray. Sure it feels quite eerie and ghastly, but then you have the vocals which are so delicate. If you like artists such as Creep, Chelsea Wolfe, The Knife- then I don’t see why you wouldn’t love Ellie Herring. This is the kind of music you want to hear at 4am when everyone is sleeping, and you cannot switch yourself off. It will kill all anxiety and any feelings of despair. It has a subtle comforting feeling. When you least expect it, Satiate makes you feel so fucking good about yourself. I know that it is such a boring thing to say and typical- but this is a feel good record. I’m not really one for listening to music that makes me feel good. I don’t actively seek music out to make me do that, I just wait for it to hit me. This is what this record does. You just think, “Oh cool, an electro album.” Then you listen to it..and you start feeling weightless. Almost like you’re tripping or something (I’ve never done drugs, but I’m going to say that the feeling this record gives you is better than any form of artificial bullshit.)

Flailing In Attraction and Until It Feels Foreign were wonderful releases, and I still listen to them now. And I’m not just saying this, but Satiate is better. It has a bigger sound that makes you feel like you are drifting peacefully into a different world. Thing is, when you get there you won’t want to leave. So just keep hitting repeat and stay there because nothing is going to beat this feeling at all.

I’m so happy that Died To Meet You is on the record, it is one of the first songs I remember hearing. Other favourites include (the whole album) Seriously Pale, If You Were Still Alive and Hide In Gold. I just really love the record. It’s one I’m proud to be listening to. I can only hope you feel the name.

You can listen to it here : http://soundcloud.com/ellieh/sets/untitled-ep-15/ When you’ve finished with Satiate, go back and listen to her other work including her remixes. Oh, and check out her Boards Of Canada mix that she uploaded yesterday. It is stunning.

Happy WARPAINT Day!

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“Oh wonderful one, why are you like that?”

It isn’t just The Kills that are celebrating an anniversary today- Warpaint are now 8 years into their career. Yep, it goes way back before 2010’s The Fool and 2009’s Exquisite Corpse.

The band formed on Valentine’s Day 2004. The band have gone through some changes over the past 8 years. Jenny’s sister  Shannyn Sossamon and current Red Hot Chili Pepper’s guitarist Josh Klinghoffer were part of the band during the start. As well as David Orlando and Michael Quinn. However, it is with Stella Mozgawa, that they found a soild with. When you watch Warpaint play, or just even on record- you can really feel such positive energy coming from them- much like The Kills.

It is fairly obvious how much I love Warpaint. I think my Warpaint tattoo has cemented my love for them, but like The Kills- my love goes beyond the music. It is the way their bond can make you feel so positive about..anything and everything. Even when it all seems a bit well, shit I suppose. Music can make you feel so much, and Warpaint’s music does that. Some songs feel like a powerful confrontation, others feel like a personal confession. I can quite happily just sit in my room, in the dark listening to their music and just allowing the sounds take me to a different universe. That’s what is so beautiful about music. When you find a singer or band that you connect with on an almost spiritual level, you allow yourself to feel so weightless and just drift off into a whole different place. A place where you can feel free without the shackles of every day life.

I remember first hearing Warpaint for the first time in 2009. I was researching some Billie Holiday songs for my dissertation, and I was using Strange Fruit as part of one of my articles. As I was watching a performance of Strange Fruit, I noticed in the corner “Warpaint-Billie Holiday.” I clicked on it. I was immediately hooked. Much like The Kills, I knew with first listen that I had found something sacred. For some reason, Warpaint aren’t a band I want to listen to with other people. It’s a thing I always feel comfortable doing alone. I guess it’s because I know of no one that connects to it like I do. I don’t mean it in a superior way at all. Most that I know that have claimed to listen only dig one song, or just fancy Jenny. Come on now. If you’re going to claim to be a fan- listen to EVERYTHING. I listen to Warpaint and I lose all my senses. I feel like I’m having some outer obdy experience. I’d feel like a massive idiot if I listened to them with someone and announced that to them. They’d probably punch me, and tell me to snap out of it. Honestly, if you listen to Shadows or Lissie’s Heart Murmur and do not feel like something has taken over you- you’re not listening to it properly.

The music is so ethereal and pure. Jenny’s bass playing is enough to make you wish you could play bass like that. Fuck it, the way they all play makes you wish you had musical talent (obviously if you already play an instrument this isn’t the case.) It’s the kind of music that makes you want to explore everything. The kind of music that just makes you want to become a better person, and discover things about yourself that you may have worked hard at pushing away.

I’ll never ever forget the day I interviewed Theresa. I haven’t done much that I am proud of, but I honestly believe that day to be the best day of my life, and one I am so fucking proud of. They say you should never meet people that you class as your heroes. I stick two fingers up to that declaration! I loved the interview because it didn’t feel like I was sat with “someone from a band.” It was like talking to someone you’ve known for years about something you both love- Music. The love they have for each other, and what they do is so beautiful. If you’ve ever seen any videos of them being interviewed, you will see that they are the most hilarious and warm people. They don’t take themselves seriously, and just love what they do. Like The Kills, they haven’t compromised who or what they are in order to get where they are now- they stayed honest to their art, and have made music that fast became timeless.

The euphoric feeling their music gives you is something every music lover searches for and craves in a band. That feeling of safety with hints of “where is this taking me?” It keeps you hooked for a lifetime. I honestly couldn’t imagine my record collection and life without their music. There was a huge void, but the wait for a band like Warpaint was truly worth it.

With only an EP and a full length album, they have fanbase that is just so loyal and passionate towards the band- and towards each other. It’s like the unity they have with each other is shared between the Warpaint fans (not the ones who buy the band shirt from Urban Outfitters and have NEVER fucking listened to the band.)

When I listen to their music, I always feel like I am in some kind of dreamy state. That I’m floating through life, and everything is just passing me by. Even with songs like Majesty- I still get that feeling. A feeling that, as much as I love certain bands- only Warpaint can give me. Each band that I hold so very dear to me does this. Each play a part, and give off certain feelings. Some feelings that, I just cannot explain. It’s almost as if words are not good enough to even try. However, if you listen to the music, you’ll probably understand what I mean.

Although I’ve met them, I’m still waiting to see them live. I just know it again, will be worth the wait and it will be some kind of life changing experience. There’s so much more I could say about Jenny, Emily, Stella and Theresa- but what good would it do? It’s obvious how much their music means to me.

Warpaint are one of the few bands that keep me going with regard to writing. There are so many times where I just think, “Fuck this fucking shit. No one reads this. I’m wasting my time. I’m really shit.” I think that at least once a week, maybe more. But, it’s this mind-set that keeps me going. If I thought I was any good, I wouldn’t bother. Warpaint inspire me to always write with heart, honesty and passion- the day I stop writing like that is the day I just give up forever. They make me feel like it is okay for me to put everything I have into something, even if it may seem so small. It will pay off eventually. I guess, they just give me hope. I also think they are a bit responsible for my huge urge to live in L.A.

Theresa, Emily, Jenny, Stella- thank you. Thank you for the music and for creating a sound that my ears were so in need of hearing. Big love. Olivia xxxx

The Kills – 10 Year Anniversary.

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“Lost a lot of blood. Lost a lot of cool, cool, cool.”

Ten years ago today, Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince aka The Kills played their first gig together. On the tenth anniversary of my favourite band- I’d like to attempt to put into words just why I love them and what they mean to me. Over the past few days I have read peoples stories about the anniversary gig in New York on Saturday. I managed to watch it online (no, I didn’t stay up until 4am to watch it because of the shitty time difference. I’m too old for staying up ast 11pm it seems!) Even though I wasn’t there, I could feel the love in the room. You could see just how much Alison and Jamie love what they do. More importantly, you can see just how inspiring and loving their friendship is.

Like most who adore The Kills, it goes beyond adoring the music that they make. It is an admiration of two people having a vision, and going with it- not giving a fuck about anything but the art. Staying true to their hearts and not ever compromising their art in the process. Over the past 10 years of being a fan, this is just a hint of what they have taught me. The Kills haven’t just opened my eyes and mind to a different world, they, in some respects have made me who I am. Now, for most- who I am isn’t exactly good. But for me, I’m bloody well proud. Their music has been the one  of very few that I turn to when I’m feeling low, and has also been there when I feel insanely happy. It’s everything to me. Do or die.

I want to talk about their bond before I really get into the music because I feel this may take up a lot of space. When I first heard The Kills..shit I can’t remember but I know it was Fried My Little Brains. I probably saw the video whilst flicking through the music channels aged 15/16. That age where everything sticks and the smallest thing can change you in a way you never thought something could. This noise that was coming through just blew me away. How could two people make such a noise? I wanted to know everything about their music, what influenced them, their music background- I wanted to know it all. So, I read up about them. Read as many interviews as I could find. I remember staying up late and hearing them on a John Peel session. I think that really nailed my dedication to them. From then on, I knew I had found the band to be my guide. They would be the ones to make me feel less cack about growing up and becoming a person I was probably scared to be. I’ve always been a bit socially uncomfortable, but a band like The Kills broke that down. Their bond is the most inspiring friendship I’ve ever EVER seen. Alison pretty much gave up her life in America to move to London to make music with Jamie. Listening to him play the guitar, like a loveable stalker then turning into being one of the most influential and honest bands around. Things take time, they say- and in those 10 years everything they have done has been so open and passionate.

The way Alison stalks the stage with her hungry eyes, caressing the mic in her hands singing the words that make you think “FUCK YES. THIS IS THE REAL THING RIGHT HERE.” You sing along with everything you have. Jamie stands beside her using his guitar as a weapon. Holding it, aiming his guitar at Alison and the crowd like a gun. Every note he churns out is a bullet to the soul. It wakes you up. It shakes you. His violent gestures merge so heavenly with Alison’s sweet, delicate voice. The way he mouths the notes he his making from the guitar like a man possessed. Alison looks at the crowd and moves like a woman possessed. They both are; by the music. And you, the audience are also taken over. Everything takes you over. You take in every single movement by Alison and Jamie. You are in awe of their chemistry. Some like to say it is sexual chemistry. Personally? You can honestly see how they are like brother and sister. It probably goes deeper than that. They are each others life. You can see how much they love what they are doing, and how happy they are sharing the moment with each other- and the crowd. It’s them against the rest of the world. That’s how it should feel when you meet your best friend, your soulmate. With them, you can do anything. Without them, they are still around somehow to make you feel like you can do it. It’s the most innocent and beautiful thing one can ever feel. It is unconditional and forever accepting.

Now, the music. Where on Earth do I begin with this? From recording on an 8-track in a soundproof cupboard to touring the world with their incredibly distinctive sound- The Kills are EASILY not only the best band around, but the best duo around. Two people can make a Hell of a lot of noise kids, don’t ever think they can’t because they really fucking can. Over the past ten years they have given us brutal riot infused songs such as Cat Claw to haunting heartbreaking songs like The Last Goodbye. Every record of theirs has played such a great role in my life. To someone who doesn’t love music, everything I have written here, and ever write will just seem like utter nonsense. Maybe that’s the case. You know, if I was going to be professional about this- I’d ignore the fact that I am a fan and write from a critic standpoint. I just cannot do that. What I learnt from The Kills is one thing in particular- always do it from the heart and with all you have. That’s how I write, and how I live. If it doesn’t feel right in my heart, I’m not playing any part in it. This is why I will NEVER write on here about something I hate and rip it apart. The world has far too many negative vibes; I don’t want to add to it. I want to write about things that I am passionate about, in the hopes someone reads it and thinks..”I feel the same.” And they don’t feel so alone with being passionate about a band, or even a song.

I will ALWAYS say that Keep On Your Mean Side is my favourite record by The Kills. However, when Blood Pressures came out last year I was in a wonderfully low place. Certain things happened that I had no power over. I couldn’t do a thing (my job at the time ended, my mum was diagnosed with cancer and a bunch of other shit.) To say I wanted to throw in the towel was a fucking understatement. I heard Blood Pressures and every ounce of passion and love in me just came back. It’s like it filled me up with fight and hope again. DNA and Pots And Pans are two songs that just made me think “Fuck..I gotta do something.” The Last Goodbye broke my heart, and I stand by “How can I rely on my heart if I break it, with my own two hands.” As being my favourite line of 2011, and the lyric that saved my soul. The vulnerability in that song made everything easier. To know someone could sum up how lost I felt, knowing it was someone I look up to- it made it mean more than the World to me. It became my world.

I still play No Wow, Keep On Your Mean Side and Midnight Boom every day. Not a day goes by when I don’t listen to The Kills. Over the past ten years, they have been more than just a band. If you regard The Kills as “just a band” you’re no fan. They are more than two people making the best music around. They are two people who give music obsessives like me something to cling onto and hold so deep within their heart. Their music will never stop being like the blood in my veins. I do not care if any of what I have written makes me sound mental. I know that at least one person in the world who may read this will connect, because fans of The Kills are the most passionate and sincere people you will ever meet and know. We are a dedicated bunch.

This has been my tribute to the two most perfect human beings I will probably never meet. If by some stroke of luck they see this- I just want to say Thank You. Thank you for giving this hopeless kid a fuck load of hope and passion ten years ago, and with every listen- I gain more hope and passion. Thank you for making music that allows one to feel so much, and that feeling mean isn’t always a bad thing. Thank you for having a bond that makes me, as a fan, want to find my own. Maybe I will, maybe I won’t. Thank you for teaching me to stay true to myself even though at times it can be hard. Thank you for that gig in November 2008 in Stoke at The Sugarmill. You left me speechless and inspired.

Alison, Jamie- thank you for the past ten years. Here’s to many many more. Much love, Olivia xx

Emeli Sandé-Our Version Of Events.

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Here’s the thing, I honestly do not need to write a load of carefully crafted sentences for me to tell you just how bloody good this record is. If you listen to it, and it doesn’t move you- then you’re not a music fan. You probably think X-Factor is good for the music industry. BOO! YOU WHORE (I had to quote Mean Girls, I’ve been dying to.)

Emeli has a voice that will make you emotional. Or maybe it’s just me. I don’t like singers that warble and think hitting high notes is the best thing in life. I love Emeli’s voice because it is so soft and delicate. Every word that falls so beautifully and freely from her mouth is so clear and crisp. You feel everything she is singing. I remember when I heard Lungs by FATM, and I just cried all the way through because it was so beautiful. It was that powerful. I did the same about 11 years ago when I went out and bought Songs In A Minor by the queen, Alicia Keys. I’m going to hop on that bandwagon for a sec and say that Emeli is OUR Alicia Keys. She has that quality to her and her music that just makes you relate. The words here, especially on Mountains makes you feel like a whole world of love and strength has taken over your body.

I am not ashamed to admit that this record has reduced me to tears. I look like I’ve been crying for weeks and weeks over a broken heart. I haven’t been crying for that reason. It’s just such a gorgeous and open record that just..oh bloody hell, I have no words. Please please go buy this record. I don’t care if your favourite band is Cradle Of Filth or if you are partial to a bit of The Cramps- this is is a stunning record. Listening to it, you cannot help but be blown away by the fact that this is Emeli’s debut record. WHAT THE HELL?! It sounds like something someone 4 albums deep into their career would make.

With the music industry riddled with singers having to remove clothing in order for people to pay attention and buy their records, Emeli is truly one in a million. Her music isn’t for a certain kind of person at all. It goes beyond a typical genre of music. It is just the most heartfelt and honest record I have heard in a long time. This is THE debut record of the year. Fuck whatever I said before, and what anyone else has said- this is THE ONE. This is where it is at kids. This is the record you need.

You know how Alicia’s debut record influenced so many? I’m going to proudly stand by this- Our Version Of Events WILL do the same. Hand on heart, I firmly believe this. Fuck, it makes me wish I could sing. This is the best female singer in the UK right now. She is just a beautiful human being with such talented. Some people are gifted and can just make you feel so much with even just one saong- Emeli is like that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bu1tiUtqV54

I think what makes this an emotional listen is that, my mum loves her. My mum was pretty ill when Emeli was starting last year properly..and every single time I heard Heaven I’d just cry. Now I have a whole record that does the same. I’m pretty sure when my mum hears this she will have the same reaction as me. I never write as a Music Journalist, I always write as a fan because I hope my love for what I’m listening to comes across as best as I can get it out. I just think this is truly the most passionate and perfect piece of art I’ve heard in such a long time.

If I could thank Emeli personally for this record, I would. It’s just on a different level to anything I have ever heard before. It will make you see the world in a different way. You’ll be left feeling loved and hopeful after you have heard this record. Debut record of the year, and I’m standing by that.

The Horrors-Strange House.

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I’ve written about Primary Colours and Skying, but never Strange House. Obviously because I started this (whatever it is) just under a year after The Horrors debut LP came out. I remember the day I bought it so clearly. There are a few records I am like this with.

The album came out in March 2007, and I was a few months into my first year of University. I loved The Horrors since the start. That aggressive, post-punk, garage rock feel to their music drew me in instantly. I fell in love with them when I first heard Sheena Is A Parasite. The video also blew me away. I just loved how different everything sounded. I mean, sure you could hear what influenced them0 but they were (and still are) NOTHING like what was around. I’ve always loved the Ramones, The Jesus And Mary Chain and My Bloody Valentine from an extremely young age (my uncle’s influence on me) and to hear a band that were my age making music like this; it was just a great comfort. Knowing I wasn’t the only one of my age listening to this stuff. It made me connect with The Horrors even more.

It does make me sad that they no longer play anything off this record anymorem but I do understand why they don’t in a way. However, I would’ve loved to have seen them live when they were getting started. I think Faris covering an audience in black paint is my generation’s version of Iggy and the peanut butter incident. Since 2006 I have been trying (and failing) to see The Horrors live. People bailing out was the main issue, as well as me being broke. HOWEVER, they’re supporting Florence on her UK tour in a few weeks. I just hope their music isn’t lost on the crowd. And yes, I am going. I think I am more excited about seeing The Horrors than Florence- I’ll have seen her 5 times, but it means more to see The Horrors in a way because I’ve waited so long.

Faris’ vocals on Strange House were quite “in your face” and would probably cause a vulnerable person’s ears to bleed. Personally, I loved them. I love his voice. I find it to be highly distinctive; he makes you want to listen and treasure every single word he is singing. Whether it’s the shouting on Sheena or the calming sounds of I Only Think Of You (second record.) He just lures you in.

I’ll always hold this record very dear to me, as it reminds me of my first year of Universirty. I remember skipping a lecture that Monday of the release just to go buy Strange House. Am I proud of doing this? Of course I am. It does annoy me a lot that people are only just now getting themselves familiar with The Horrors. Yes, Still Life is a good song- but you need..you HAVE to go back to the very very start of The Horrors to really appreciate what they do now, and see how they’ve gornw. Many critics and the general  public at the time of Strange House, did shun them because of how they dressed and how big their hair was. It wasn’t an image it was just how they were. However, how they dressed really did fit in with the sound and feel of Strange House. I loved the whole look they had going on. If I was male, I probably would’ve copied the look to be honest.

As a debut record, you really cannot find any fault with Strange House. If you can, then you’re not a fan of The Horrors. There is more to them than just wearing black clothes. There is more to them than Still Life. This band are one of the best band’s that the UK has produced in a hell of a long time. What I love about this debut record is, althought it does posses a Garage Rock feel to it- it also has essence of Punk scattered through. You know full well that they did what they wanted with this record (and also with Primary Colours and Skying.) They aren’t a band that should be told what to do, free creative regin is a must for bands like The Horrors. Bands that stay true to their art. There aren’t many bands around now that do this. You can find it easily in the music of The Kills, Warpaint, The XX, Zola Jesus and a few others. I love Strange House because it is a frightening record. Faris’ screaming will scare you bloody shitless- that’s perfect. That is why I fell in love with them when I first heard them.

The record opens with a bloody marvellous cover of Screaming Lord Sutch’s Jack The Ripper. If you’re not familiar with him, get familiar with him. If you love music that is on a different level of weird and will cause mini heart attacks with how insane it is- listen to Screaming Lord Sutch. My personal favourite track off the record is She Is The New Thing. That will always be one of my favourite tracks by the band. I also adore Little Victories. I think that was the song I first played over and over when I got the record. Excellent Choice (either version) is just stunning. The monologue is greeted with Faris yelling in the background. It works, it works so bloody well. I respect that they never play any of these songs live now; but I can’t help but want to witness everyone going mental to Sheena Is A Parasite or Death At The Chapel.

I still find myself watching clips of the band from 2006/2007/2008 playing material from Strange House and just being in awe of every movement from each band member. The way Joe beats the shit out the drums, the way Tom just looks so fucking cool playing the bass oblivious to the chaos on stage and in the crowd. The way Josh throws himself about playing the guitar and making the most incredible sounds. The way Rhys thrashes the organ and moves like a madman. The way Faris screams every single word and stalks the stage like a lucid panther, picking up scattered objects from the crowd and on stage. It is all so fucking wonderful, and it is music like this that makes my heart race and mind explode.

I mean tracks like Gil Sleeping, A Train Roars, Thunderclaps- they are eerie tracks that will posses your mind. The way Gloves deals with an obsession of collecting Gloves. Count In Fives deals with Faris’ habit of counting in fives when he was younger- it is all so fucking magnificent and brutal. You may be quick to judge the songs as screaming bollocks, and for that I wish to lamp you one. Read the lyrics, and you will see just how out of this world The Horrors were then, and still are now.

Most of you may claim Skying as THE ultimate album by The Horrors, and the band probably do too. But, it was Strange House that made me give my heart and mind and ears over to The Horrors. It has fuzzy and psychotic sounds for those who enjoy the weird and dark side of life. It’s the perfect debut record, and when I first heard it I just knew that anything and everything The Horrors would come to do would amaze me and be a huge part of my life. I cannot imagine my life without The Horrors and my record collection without their music. They are a band that you can be proud to be a fan of, and they leave you want more every single time. Just waiting for a new sound that blow your mind and get you falling in love with them all over again.

When I left for Uni in 2006, my auntie and uncle gave me a I AM A HORROR t-shirt and a badge of The Horrors as a leaving present. I still wear them with such pride.

The Small Print.

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I’ve got probably a list of things to do, and as a rebellious 25 year old (I have no idea who I’m rebelling against, but go with it. I want to seem like a badass for once. I’ve got the leather jacket.) I refuse to do them right now. I’ll probably never do them. Some may say it is rebellion, others may say I have a really bad memory. The latter is obviously apt, but let’s go with the former kids.

The Small Print are BRAND NEW. I was going to try throw in some really awful slang, but I’m not one for speaking in slang- unless I’m taking the piss. This blog post isn’t a piss take. It’s actually vital that you go listen to The Small Print. However, they don’t have many songs but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t check them out. As they are so NEW, you need to get involved with them right now. Serious. Have you got snow where you are? Yeah, don’t go out. You can go to the pub anytime can’t you? You don’t want to fall over on ice when drunk. It can hurt (I’ve never done it, but I can fall over when sober and if nothing is even in my way.)

So, you have a choice of sites as to where you can check out the insanely wonderful sounds of The Small Print. As I am someone who likes to give and make others happy, I’m going to give you the links :

http://www.reverbnation.com/thesmallprintbanduk

http://www.purevolume.com/TheSmallPrint74381

http://www.myspace.com/the-small-print

Becca’s voice is beautiful. She reminds me of…oh wait, NO ONE! She’s that good. Fuck the comparisons. That’s not happening here. However, Tom and AJ absolutley slay the drums and guitars much like Test Icicles did when they were around. They merge delicate vocals with brutal sounds. It’s honestly no surprise that I love them at all really.

GO LISTEN.

Spooky Campers.

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I was told to check out Spooky Campers. When someone tells me to do something, I have this wonderful thing of never listening. I’d rather fuck up on my own and be responsible rather than say “THEY TOLD ME TO DO IT.” With music, I always take on board if someone tells me to listen to a band or singer. I can’t say, “No thanks. I don’t like the name.” Or something stupid. Of course I dislike a lot, but you won’t find me shouting about it on here. If you want to find a blog that is fuelled by negative comments and sly digs- I’m sure you can find some spotty faced, angst ridden hipster blog somewhere. They’re probably the biggest hypocrite out there, alongside politicians.

Rant aside, and this does fit in- I’m glad I was told to listen to Spooky Campers (sunkensounds.tumblr.com) are to thank for that, so thank you to them.

What do I love about Spooky Campers? Okay the name, I love. But it’s the Garage Rock/lo-fi feel they have. You know how much I love this sound. I was thinking the other day, the music I listen to is probably the stuff some twat would call me out as being a “hipster” for. I was going to get offended then though- if having excellent music taste makes me that, then whatever. It beats being called a “cunt” again.

Spooky Campers are amazing. I know nothing about them. I don’t know where they are from, age, shoe size- I’m doing this to prove a point. You do not need to know everything about a band in order to enjoy the music. I’m more than happy to sit here, and write these words- just enjoying the music. Besides, what use is knowing anything personal anyway? It doesn’t alter my view on the music.

I’m trying to find a band I can link them to in order for me to say, “If you like….then you’ll dig Spooky Campers.” But, I cannot find anyone. Personally, I think that’s a fucking good thing. I’m listening to their music, and I’m thinking why it took me so long to find a band like this. A band that just create this stunning music that virtually nobody has heard of. I don’t want it to stay that way. I want everyone to listen to them. You see, a hipster wouldn’t tell you about them would they? They’d keep the band to themselves, and name drop them during Poetry Night whilst drinking some pretentious sounding made-up latte shit. I like Poetry Nights, but the only hot drink I like is tea. I want you to know Spooky Campers. I want it to be my personal mission to get these guys heard. So I’m starting with this piece on them. I do hope it makes you want to listen to them, because they are truly fantastic.

It does take quite a bit for me to instantly fall in love with a band- and it happened oh so easily with Spooky Campers. It is gnarly, it is passionate and it deserves to be heard by all of you.

Go listen : http://spookycampers.bandcamp.com/

Victories At Sea.

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I do hope that all these bands that are coming up from Birmingham right now are making London bands shit themselves out of fear. With the likes of Swim Deep making incredible music- they bloody well should be.

So, allow me to give you another band from the Midlands. If you love the electro feel of New Order or maybe of recent times- you love the euphoric feel of Foals..possibly M83 too. Whatever you’re into- you are truly going to love Victories At Sea. I’m not just saying this because I WANT you to dig them as much as I do. I just believe in showing off good music in any way possible. Just be glad we’re not friends because I would be sending you their music every single day. Ritualistically because that’s how I am (at times.)

Victories At Sea make music that makes you want to dance. They make you want to dance in that brilliant odd way like Ian Curtis. Or, just like a drunken idiot (I dance like that even when sober.) This euphoric lift that they give you just makes you feel so fucking good inside. Pardon my language, but I’m really feeling this music right in my bones. Music is the one solid thing that makes me happy. There’s always a few bands and songs that give me this feeling that I may never get from a person (I welcome the challenge.) And I’m getting it now from listening to Victories At Sea.

I know I love music that can be regarded as brutal and raw- but I do love music that just sends me into another world. A world that you create in your mind. Like the band are holding your hand, and guiding you towards this magical land. Where nothing and no one can disturb you.

Check out their wonderfully lucid tracks on their Soundcloud page : http://soundcloud.com/victoriesatsea If you don’t dig it, then we may have to have words. Not harsh ones, but still. It’s been a long time coming, but I think this year the Midlands are going to be the ones to watch for music- and quite rightfully so.

They are playing the Roadhouse in Manchester on the 24th February. Make sure you go check them out!