Tag Archives: London

ORLANDO SEALE AND THE SWELL.

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It doesn’t matter about the kind of music you expose yourself to and fall in love with, what matters is how it makes you feel. However, the only person it should matter to is you. What you like, another will hate and vice versa. Make music your own.

Some singers can get to the core of a feeling, and even if you’ve not experienced it, you feel it too. It goes beyond being powerful. It goes beyond moving you. It takes you deep into the unknown and stays with you. Orlando Seale is one of those guys who does this.

He and his band have been labelled as the male version of Florence And The Machine. This is a bold statement, and was coined by beautiful weirdo Noel Fielding. As someone who loves Florence a lot (one of our pet rabbits is named after her) I was a bit dubious about this statement. I remember the rawness of her debut, Lungs and being terrified and in awe of such beauty and despair in the lyrics. I can see why Orlando has been given this label.

His lyrics are heartfelt and full of the feelings we try to push down. All Of The Dogs has a line that just hits you, “Sometimes I want to hurt you.” We’ve all been close to someone who makes us feel this way. They drag out the ugly feelings in us and compress the good. They can pull the good out, but it only touches the surface. He has this gorgeous way of taking you back to a time full of pain and dislike for yourself and what you were becoming, he allows you to face it. Albeit a few years too late to undo the damage, but you know to never do it again. Carry the burden and never let on what it did, what you did. This is all in one song.

Prior to making music, Orlando was living in Los Angeles and his girlfriend at the time lent him an old Eliot Smith guitar. She then left him. He left Los Angeles. He returned back to London and something charged through his songs giving them some kind of menacing tone. Songs that are romantically brutal, crushing and adoring. Like I mentioned about Kingsley Chapman And The Murder this week, Orlando too writes unconventional love songs. My idea of love and your idea of love are different. Some go to the typical sides, I’ll take the dark Nick Cave side of love. Always. Feel it and feel it to the core until it burns through you.

There is so much soul and power reeling through his music. You know that this is a band that HAVE to be seen live. There’s a lot of them on stage, but not in an annoying Arcade Fire kind of way. A cult like feel almost, you’ll chant along and leave no longer questioning all those doubts in your mind.

Sadly I missed his show in December at The Lexington. I probably had a migraine. I have more of them than a person probably should, and it gets in the way. But this is the kind of music to take you somewhere bloody brilliant and it makes you feel entirely fearless. Go for a run or something whilst listening to Aeroplanes, you’ll feel invincible.

You can listen to their tracks here:

The band have a two date residency at one of the best venues in London this month at the Sebright Arms on the 25th and 26th March.

PINS- Sebright Arms 26th February 2015.

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When you become a fan of a band, it is usually their live shows that explain why you love them. Most bands I’m a fan of sound a billion times better live than on record. For the interaction and to see their faces as they play certain songs. It feels like it’s just you and them.

PINS are a band that HAVE to be seen live. On record they are exceptional, live they are perfect. Their show last night consisted of them playing their new record in full. If you’ve heard their debut, Girls Like Us you will know of a certain sound they have. A little dark, a little sinister and mixed with songs to chant along to. Their new record is nothing like Girls Like Us. If this becomes a problem for whoever listens to it, then they probably need their head checking.

I’ve no clue what the titles of the songs are, but I can tell you they are brilliant. With their first record they became a band to pay attention to, with their second they have become a band that will kick the behinds of those wanting to start a band, motivating them to make their own noise. They’ve truly found their own sound here on the new record, it isn’t too heavy and it’s utterly divine.

As I was listening to the songs last night, one band in particular came to my mind. A band that I hold as high as my mother. A band from the home of music, Manchester. PINS new songs have wonderful dreamy elements that are found in songs by The Stone Roses. I looked on feeling like a proud parent. This is a band that have done something really special, and I can only hope more people pay attention to them. I remember hearing Say To Me/Luvu4lyf and being amazed at what I was hearing. This was heavy and creepy stuff, it was incredible. The same feeling hit me again last night as I watched them rip through their glorious second record. There is something about live music that moves you, and last night was a proper example of that.

The new songs are powerful and inspirational. There is wisdom in the lyrics and fury in the drums. If Sophie doesn’t make you leave wanting to be a drummer, then you’ve probably been watching with yours eyes closed the whole time. A truly magnificent show, and I can honestly say (and I say it a lot) the best time I’ve seen them.

They end their set with Girls Like Us which ends with Faith bringing some fans on stage (one being Robert from Crocodiles!) to join in with the jumping about. The song is mixed with number 1 party jam, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. A brilliant end to the show. The show last night was a showcase of things to come from PINS, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear this new record.

The only crap thing about going to a PINS show is the amount of creepy old guys standing near the front and taking photos of the bands legs. Come on now. If you’re looking to get off on something, I’m fairly sure you can find a porno for free online. But anyway, if you ignore that then you can just appreciate how bloody great the band are. Faith’s voice is a lot stronger, Lois is a delight to watch because she bops up and down on the stage like a kid who’s downed a lot of cherryade and had a sherbet based sweet as her main meal. They are going to easily become an influential band in no time, they’re on the right path to doing so. Oh and before I forget the other thing that wasn’t great about last night was that Anna wasn’t there. Get well soon! PINS are quite frankly one of the most exciting bands around, on record and live they take you some place truly magical. Nothing really feels the same afterwards.

BY STARLIGHT

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Bands usually go through changes. Sometimes for the best, sometimes it doesn’t make any difference. Then there are some that go through hell and have to have a new lineup. There is something about experiencing emotional pain and suffering that can make a person tougher. There is something about it that can be a kick up the arse. Suffering or not, we all need that at times.

By Starlight are a London based trio who make the kind of music that would probably silence Courtney Love. When you listen to bassist/vocalist Sara you hear all the powerful singers that came before her in her voice. There’s a hint of PJ, Shirley Manson, Patti and Courtney in her voice and it is bloody excellent.

Sara started the band a few years ago after she left Australia. Australia isn’t known for its music scene I suppose (Silverchair will always be one of my favourite bands and Natalie Imbruglia once had a nice hairstyle didn’t she.) As someone who was once shy and hadn’t really sung before, it is fair to say that she has found her voice. A voice so strong and so passionate; enough to make you want to start a band too. These are the kind of bands and singers we need.

By Starlight have a raw, gnarly 90s sound. So Desperate could easily pass as a song off Garbage’s debut record. It is brutal and heavy, it is everything I want from a song and a band. They have a real moody sound flowing beautifully in and out of their songs. Listen to So Desperate just once, and it will stay with you. No And Forever sounds like it would sit wonderfully on Hole’s Celebrity Skin record. I know it may sound like lame comparisons, but honestly they just sound like one of the great Rock bands, you know? You can’t ignore that

There’s determination in this band, and of course it is something to admire. Last year, drummer (and best friend of Sara) Pete was sadly killed in a car accident. I wish I had written about them prior because his drumming was brilliant. Some drummers just have you hooked instantly, and he was definitely one of them. I’m just glad Sara didn’t call it quits because By Starlight aren’t a band anyone should ignore.

After only meeting Dan (guitar) and Thierry (drums) a few months ago, it is pretty obvious that this band aren’t one that should be stopped. What started with the desire to move to London has now become something truly wonderful, even in the light of something beyond awful. By Starlight have a real Rock sound to them. Their sound is heavy in all the right places and is mixed with moody and seductive vocals.

I’ve happily been playing their 3 tracks on their soundcloud page for the past hour or so. So Desperate is a proper little earworm that will stay with you. You can listen to their tracks right here:

Their next show is on 27th February at The Dublin Castle (in Camden.) I’ve not seen them live, but I’m pretty sure it will be gloriously loud and rowdy.

If mean (they’re sweethearts really, but you know what I’m getting at) and moody melodies are what you desire, then turn yourself onto By Starlight. An absolute pleasure to listen to and I’m pretty damn proud to call myself a fan. Besides, any band that name themselves after a Smashing Pumpkins song is alright with me! This won’t be the last I write about By Starlight.

2:54: Manchester/London February 2015

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Seeing a band you adore live is a great feeling. Sometimes, well for the most part, it seems to be a sort of release and a purely cathartic experience. That’s what music should be about and when you see it performed in front of you it becomes heightened and more important.

2:54 have just finished a 3 day tour in the UK. I did 2 out of 3 dates and I won’t lie, I wish I did all 3. If you’ve seen them live you will know how addictive it can be. You leave wishing to be in that moment solidly for the rest of time. You want to tell the words back to Sugar. You want to lose yourself during No Better Prize. You air drum along to Creeping. These moments become you. Don’t part from them.

Manchester was the first show. There is something really special about seeing bands in Manchester. The venue was idyllic and the crowd were a beautiful lot. Manchester crowds aren’t afraid to move. The last time I saw 2:54 was a month or so before when they did a secret show at the Shacklewell Arms to about 50 people. This show however, was dark and loud. Euphoric filled moments. Alex’s intense drumming. Rich’s brutal bass playing. Hannah’s inspiring guitar playing. Colette’s delicate but powerful voice. You will not find a better constructed band. With no need to talk in between songs, this band have gorgeous stage presence. In short, they make you want to start a band.

Last night they played historic Camden venue, Dingwalls. This show had a real Punk vibe about it. You can find this if you look hard enough. Colette said there was a strong Punk feel to the show last night, and she wasn’t wrong. Bodies were moving in time and some off beat. The music was rightfully being felt in all the right places.

I’ve loved them since I heard Creeping a few years ago. If I could find the word to describe how it made me feel and how it hit me, I would. It all comes to life when you see them live.
A strong sense of pride. The band I adore are nothing short of excellent and are making the kind of music that really moves you.

I interviewed Colette and Hannah in Manchester( I will type it up soon) and it felt like I was talking to two friends. Their bond is so pure and lovely to witness. You know how some people can communicate without saying a word? That’s them. I don’t think any other band has a bond as strong as that. Quite simply, the sisters are the most gracious and kind individuals I’ve met in a long time. Their music may be heavy and intense but personality wise they are just wonderful people. If you go see them, talk to them afterwards. Tell them I sent you!

And now it is all over. America is getting them next. Is it too late to have a Kickstarter page to find me to go out there? I’m too much of a wuss to get on a plane for 8 hours anyway!
Their on stage presence just makes you want to start a band. I think I spent most of the time staring at Alex and being in awe of how great a drummer he is. He makes you want to do exactly what he does. He truly is phenomenal and I hope if anyone ever made a list of the best drummers around he would be the top choice. But please know that during each song, all band members truly do shine but during some songs you take notice of a certain band member. No Better Prize sees you staring at awe at Hannah’s guitar skills. This song is a real intimate part of the show- it’s just Hannah and Colette on stage playing this. They perform it with such power, you don’t realise that there are other people in the room. Sure Hannah nails it during the end of Scarlet, but there is something extremely fragile and poignant about this song and how they do it live.Speaking of Scarlet, that’s the one where you really focus on Rich and how great a bass player he is. He moves furiously and plays with such purpose, making you wish you could play like that. Scarlet is the song that everyone goes nuts to, and I reckon it’s the bass that sets us all off. How could it not?! Blindfold is a personal song, whoever you are you will feel this song. You’ll see yourself in it and for this reason and how Colette sings it makes it her moment. Of course she’s got a brilliant voice, but there is really something about Blindfold that really makes you connect with the song. That’s the job of the singer, and she does it perfectly. Colette’s voice reminds me of singers I love such as Shirley Manson and Patti Smith. She can sound so delicate in one song but can flip to being dominant. Regardless, you pay attention and you listen. Alex Robins. Where do you begin on his drumming. After much thought I think I’ll go with Creeping. Inititally I was going with Crest because it’s so brutal and is one of the louder tracks on the record. But, I’ll stick with Creeping. He smacks the cymbal like a wave crashing crumbling and faded rocks. His drumming on Creeping sends the song swirling all around you and no part of you feels like you are where you are. Put all of these factors together from each of them, and you truly do have, hand on heart, the perfect/ideal band.

When I listen to 2:54, I just want to sit and write about what their music does and it all it stirrs inside of you. When I see them live I wish to cast real life aside and do something other than what I have to do every day. There is truly something special about them and I feel for anyone who has yet to see it, or who has yet to listen to them or has disregarded them. They’re easy to write about because they are just everything I love about music and why I probably won’t be satisfied until I’ve made some kind of career out of writing about music. 9-5 doesn’t sit well with me, it makes me feel uncomfortable. I don’t adapt to routine.

Music should do something to you that a person can’t. It should take you to a place that no mode of transport can drag you too. It’s a wave of emotions and moments of realisation. If you’re feeling lost, go to a gig. Go to a record store. Go into the unknown and be transported towards something else. Something you have probably been looking for. I recommend you start with 2:54. Listen to them on the move, in your room. Go to their shows and allow yourself to feel something so gloriously sacred.
 

*Note: This was written at 9 this morning on the train to work in about 20 minutes, 2:54 make it so easy to write about music and all it means to a person.

2:54- Crest (video.)

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I think 2:54 look at the weather and think, “Yeah, now we’ll release something..it’s pissing it down outside. It’ll fit the mood.” On this cold, wet and dreary Monday London’s finest (if you want to get particular about this we’ll say Ireland/Bristol’s finest) 2:54 released the video to their new single, Crest which is taken from the best record of 2014, The Other I.

Crest is brilliantly shot and makes you feel you are in the throes of one of their gigs, throwing your body about and yelling the words back. If you’ve ever seen 2:54 live, you’ll probably been left in awe of how each of them are just massively into what they are doing. I know I’ve said it so many times, but Alex is probably the best drummer I’ve ever seen (think he’s wearing a Fugazi shirt in the video which is also excellent.) He gets really into it in the video, and that’s just a little taste of what they’re like live.

Shot in black and white, the video is as moody as their remarkable sound. Crest is one of their heavier songs and is undoubtedly one of the most important moments on The Other Day.

You can watch the video on the Nylon website here: http://www.nylon.com/articles/video-premiere-2-54-crest

If you have holiday to take at work, why not do what I’ve done and go see the band more than once and treat yourself to a night in Manchester, London and Bristol. You won’t find a finer band.

Tour dates are:

02/02-Manchester, Deaf Institute (tickets: http://www.thedeafinstitute.co.uk/event.php?id=568&d=2015-02-02)

03/02-  Bristol, Colston Hall (tickets: http://www.thedeafinstitute.co.uk/event.php?id=568&d=2015-02-02)

04/02- London, Dingwalls (tickets: http://www.dingwalls.com/listings/events/4-feb-15-254-dingwalls/)

And if you live in America, you can catch them at the following dates with the wonderful Honeyblood as support:

27/02 – Brooklyn, NY – Rough Trade Venue

28/02- Washington, DC – DC9

01/03- Philadelphia, PA – Johnny Brenda’s

03/03- Toronto, ON – The Silver Dollar Room

04/03-  Detroit, MI – UFO Factory

05/03-  Chicago, IL – Empty Bottle

06/03-  Minneapolis, MN – 7th Street Entry

08/03-  Seattle, WA – Barboza

09/03- Portland, OR – Mississippi Studios

11/03-  San Francisco, CA – The Rickshaw Stop

12/03-  Los Angeles, CA – The Echoplex

13/03-  San Diego, CA – The Hideout

14/03-  Phoenix, AZ – VIVA PHX Music Festival

2:54- Shacklewell Arms. 4th December 2014.

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The best things in life are free (thanks Luther and Janet) and also, sometimes the best things are kept a secret. Yesterday afternoon whilst tearing my eyes away from work for a split second (15 minutes) I saw Bella Union’s clue as to who was their secret headliner for their Christmas show at the Shacklewell Arms. The clue was, “an East London bus route.” SO EASY. It’s 2:54. Easily. How did I guess it? Because that’s the bus I spend most of my life on. My plan after work was to go to the gym (this fatty has lost some weight) and go to sleep. Two things I enjoy. I also love 2:54. I love them more than the gym and sleep, and if I didn’t go I’d probably be a bit annoyed. So off I went!

A band called Landshapes were on first., who were mighty impressive. Their singer sounds a bit like both Emily and Jenny from Warpaint mixed with Foals-esque sounds. What I did hear/see was pretty damn good.

At around half 10 Alex, Colette and Hannah took to the stage to perform an acoustic set. Colette told me afterwards that they couldn’t get their gear out of their lock-up and get it to Shacklewell Arms in time, as they finish work at 9pm. The fact that they have day jobs makes me respect them a bit more you know? Most bands I listen to do work as well as in a band, it’s hard. It’s really hard. I can’t pretend I can relate, I wish I could. But not being paid to write about Music but having a desk job during the day isn’t really the same. Being in a band requires more effort and dedication.

I don’t know if it is old age or sheer tiredness, but I cannot remember the setlist. I know they opened with Crest and closed with Sugar. The Monaco was also played. I wish I could remember the other 2/3 songs they did, but it is half 8 and I’ve had 5 hours sleep. I hope today is gentle with me.

Seeing a band like 2:54 do an acoustic set was truly special. I don’t know how everyone else in the crowd felt (there was about 30 people, they all buggered off after Landshapes for some stupid reason) but it was beautiful. If you’ve ever seen 2:54 live you’ll know that it’s quite intense and heavy. They are gentle version of one of my favourite (and ultimately one of the greatest) bands, Sleep. My Gran has got me a Sleep t-shirt for Christmas, she’s the best. 2:54’s sound captures everything I absolutely love about music. They’ve got this heightened sensation in their sound that has really come alive on their new record, The Other I. Everything about their music is dark, ethereal and really intense. I don’t know how many times I play them at work to get me through staring at a spreadsheet. It bloody helps. I probably annoy everyone drumming along on the desk.

Alex, as I’ve said so many times, is easily my favourite drummer around. He’s a pleasure to watch and he just makes you wish you could play the drums. In their set last night he really shone during The Monaco. I love the regimented drumming on it mixed with Colette’s delicate voice. Then we have Hannah. If you ever feel the need to make a list of the best guitarists (please exclude gender as gender shouldn’t be a ruling factor) then she needs to undoubtedly be number 1. I think I spent the evening admiring her gorgeous Fender acoustic and being in awe of how brilliant she is. I could never get tired of watching them live or acoustic. I love how Colette is on stage, her enforcing hand gestures are equally as dominant during an acoustic set as they are during their normal live set-up. I’ve said it before, she moves on stage as if she could bust out a verse by say, Wu Tang Clan word for word with no problem at all. If you’re one of those people who seek to define music by gender or are constantly looking for “the best front-woman” then just look at her. However, if you want a band that have everything and know that gender shouldn’t define a person’s profession, then 2:54 are that band. What I’m trying to say is, 2:54 are bloody great and I want you to love them.

When you see a band you really love in such an intimate setting, it makes you appreciate their music a lot more and you hear the pieces you may not always hear on record. Not only are they an excellent band, they are genuinely the loveliest people I’ve met. Also, I know nothing about fashion but Colette had on a beautiful coat. Just incase you were wondering.

2:54 are out on tour in February playing Manchester, Bristol and London. A drunken decision was made last Friday with my good friend to go see them in Manchester. If I had the funds, I’d do Bristol too. But hey, 2 out of 3 isn’t so bad.

Go to your local record store and pick up the finest band on Bella Union’s new record, The Other I by 2:54. It is full of mystical wonder and heavy sounds, mixed with haunting vocals.

THE JESUS AND MARY CHAIN- Psychocandy Shows.

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“But you break me in two
And you throw me away
And you spit on my head
You trip me up.”

After spending more money on gig tickets, travel and accommodation – it is with a slight bout of deafness and sheer joy that I can say, I have finally seen The Jesus And Mary Chain live. Twice. In the space of a few days. Not sure how I am not totally deaf, but it’s fine. It is an excuse to not listen to anyone (not like I do anyway.)

I don’t want to turn this into a comparison of Manchester vs London. I’m siding with London because I was at the front, I can’t hear and the venue was a lot nicer. The Troxy is one of the most stunning venues I’ve ever been to. I’m usually a fan of venues that look like they’re about to fall down and are the size of a shed, but I like to make an exception. Instead, I’ll just go on about how TJAMC are one of the best bands I have seen live, finally.

I knew it was going to be loud. I knew it was going to feel like my ears were going to burst and bleed. I wouldn’t have bought tickets if I wasn’t alright with that. The crowds at both nights (and I’d imagine for most dates/all) consisted mainly of middle-aged men having the time of their lives. Some crying onto their best friend’s shoulders, most shouting the words back at Jim as if he’s some modern-day Messiah (he probably is, let’s be honest.) For me, it felt like a Morrissey show but with a bit more bite. How these guys react to TJAMC is how grown men are at a Morrissey show, without the stage invasion. There is something beautiful about seeing this. TJAMC appeal to those who are awkward, unsure but carry the weight of daily feelings like no other. They are for those who do not mind the darker side of having emotions, what they do mind is being told how to offload it all. How do you offload it? You stick on TJAMC and you think of someone or something that is really eating you. This is how you come alive.

I wasn’t even a mere thought before Psychocandy came out (I was born a year and one week later, always late.) but it has become one record that I quite simply, cannot live without. Is it a bold statement? Is it foolish? There a few thousand from over the past week or so who will probably agree with me. United. It’s a record that means more to me than anything else I’ve ever heard. I’ve felt every ugly and passionate feeling Jim sings on that record, and fuck me I am not ashamed. I’m sort of proud that I am able to relate to such a remarkable record. See, I just can’t live without it. To see it live in its entirety was something no part of me ever thought I would see. I never ever thought I would see TJAMC live, ever. I have a tendency to like bands that have most members dead or they hate each other. Sometimes both. Thank you Jim and William for getting your shit together.

I expected nothing from the shows, all I cared about was seeing TJAMC. The excitement I had was probably borderline irritating, I don’t care. If you get the chance to see your favourite band in the whole wide world live, go. Just go. I don’t care how you fund it, just go. Treat yourself. You need to.

There was an atmosphere at both shows that I sincerely hope was at all of them. It was a mixture of relief, absolute happiness and shock that it was about to happen. I know this isn’t a live review, all it is is something unleashing how it feels to see their favourite band of all time live. Finally. There was nothing wrong with these shows, every element of it was perfect. Last night, William played a bum note during a song and Jim just turned to him as if to say, “typical” shook his head and grinned. William was like the mad scientist surrounded with amps and pedals. Jim was every bit the brilliant frontman I knew he was. There was no need for painful conversation between songs. I’m not a fan of that. And I don’t think they are either.

Seeing You Trip Me Up and My Little Underground live meant more to me than I thought they would. Those songs hold more sentimental value to me than a song probably should. More than I want them to, but seeing it all live was like a release. A sigh of relief, yet I didn’t want it to end. TJAMC have been missed, so dearly missed. I hope they never leave us again because we needed it. Live music needs bands like them. Being brutally loud and not apologising for making you feel as if your ears are bleeding. If I don’t get injured or go a little deaf at a gig, I probably didn’t have a good time.

TJAMC’s music is the polar opposite to me, sound wise. They are brutal, somewhat sinister and loud. I’m too shy for my own good, but I’m alright with clinging onto that. Psychocandy is a release of all sorts, and to finally see it live goes beyond the words I have written.

They opened with April Skies. A song I thought would be too much for me to witness, but my god it was beautiful. To just watch that over and over would be something else. Maybe they’ll do a tour for Darklands…that’d be nice. There is no doubt in my mind that TJAMC are the best band, ever. How Jim Reid feels about the Velvet Underground is how I feel about them. Ultimately I do feel the same about the Velvet Underground, obviously. I think that’s quite clear. One of the true special moments last night was Miki Berenyi joining them on Just Like Honey. Oh, and Kevin Shields was sat upstairs too. Shoegaze heaven.

The shows I went to were euphoric and loud. Seeing middle-aged men take their partners with them as if to say, “This has been me for the past 30 years, this is who I am” was just beautiful. The songs are as important as they always were, much like the band.

VIVA THE JESUS AND MARY CHAIN!

2:54. St Pancras OId Church. 19th November 2014.

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“Nobody here can make the feeling new.”

Second time seeing 2:54, second time seeing them in a church. It is fair to say that their eerie and ethereal sound is bloody glorious in a church, and I would fully back them playing these kinds of venues. Why? Because there is something quite beautiful about seeing a band like 2:54 in a church. I can’t actually put it into words what it feels like, but if you’ve listened to them you know what kind of environment they are perfect for.

Last week they released their second record, The Other I. As someone who is pretty much still obsessed with their debut record, I wasn’t sure if I was ready to let it go and move onto the next. Turns out I am, and I’m of course, obsessed with it. There is something about their music that makes me want to write about music constantly. Maybe it is because everything I adore about music is in their sound. Do I want it to sound a little creepy? Yes. Do I want lyrics that not only I can relate to, but are in awe of how they are placed together and sung? Yes. Do I want music to sound like I’m not where I currently am? Yes. Do 2:54 do all this and beyond? Of course.

The PA system blares out Tender Shoots. A delicate song to listen to through headphones, but through a PA in church, it’s haunting. I cannot remember the setlist, but I remember moments (made use of a happy hour in a bar beforehand, so go with me on this.)

I loved the little jam at the end of Scarlet which went straight into Sugar. Sugar for so long was a song that I played on repeat, then they made a video to it and it just went insane. It’s a song that’s got so much going on in it that my little head can’t get itself around. The drums on it. Oh man. More on the drumming in a bit. Some songs are met with a beautiful smirk from Colette who, on stage seems like this powerful being stalking the stage and commanding it with rapper-esque hand movements. Off stage, she seems the opposite. One of the most genuine souls I’ve ever met, but more on that later. The new songs are adored by the 120 or so of us in the room. I thought, how can they still be playing small venues like this? But the thing is, this is where they sound perfect. Last night’s show was the first of their tour, and anyone who has a ticket is in for a real treat.

The drumming. Alex is pretty much the best drummer I’ve seen live, and one of the best drummers I’ve heard on record. If you’re looking for a group of musicians to influence you to start a band, listen to 2:54 then go see them live. Church or no church, just please go see them. I hope a 14-year-old kid somewhere hears this band and starts something magical of their own. I’m however, 28 with no musical talent, it’s probably why I do this. Ha. Alex has this ability to make the songs sound more brutal live. 2:54’s sound is delicate but mixed with bold moments. Moments that just make you hit repeat all the time. He makes the drums sound like waves crashing around you, a prime example of this is during Creeping. I wish I had the money to do all of this tour just to see him drum. He’s nothing short of brilliant.

Hannah and Colette play No Better Prize together. Just Hannah on guitar and Colette’s blissful vocals. Her clarity when she sings is gorgeous, and you pick up on the lyrics much more. You pick out certain lines, and not only do you identify with them but you’re bloody grateful someone has said it. My favourite part of the gig was a cross between No Better Prize and South. I think I’m sold on South being my favourite off The Other I. It was Pyro but I’m sticking with South. I think the new bassist is called Rich? Sorry if I’m wrong. Anyway, he’s bloody brilliant. Bassists don’t get enough credit I don’t think. For 2:54, the bass really adds something haunting to their sound.

Their heavy sound mixed with gentle vocals is really what appeals to me. It’s like beauty and the beast (none of the band are beasts, I just mean mixing something ferocious with something tame.) There are a small number of bands I could quite happily watch for the rest of my time, 2:54 are evidently one of them.

At the end of the show, I hung around to buy myself a t-shirt (as always, I do my clothes shopping at gigs don’t I.) In complete shock to me, Colette recognises me. “You’re Olivia aren’t you?!” My ability to say something awkwardly daft thankfully past me by (thank you Happy Hour, thank you!) Her words about my writing meant a hell of a lot to me. Firstly, I never expect a band to read anything I write about them and secondly, if they do read it I wouldn’t expect them to remember! She said I write beautifully about the band. It’s easy to write about them because I just love them and I have done for ages! When you really believe in something, it is easy to put that across. I’m just someone who loves music in all its possible ways. Balls to the genre, I just want it to make me feel something. Her kind words are staying with me, and when I feel like stopping writing, I’ll replay them in my head.

I told her I sold my ticket for The Jesus And Mary Chain to be there last night. “I hope we were worth it” she said. You have no idea. Can February hurry up now please?!

CROCODILES- LONDON FIELDS BREWERY. 11TH OCTOBER 2014.

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With every review of Crocs I write, I always say the same thing. I always say how bloody great they are, and as someone who is rarely right- with this, I know it to be true. They are probably the best band I’ve seen live and are bloody lovely guys.

Last night they played as part of the Hackney Wonderland. I paid £10 just to see them and didn’t go see anyone else. Maybe that was foolish, but my girlfriend and I went to have pizza. As an Italian, I can’t turn down pizza. Also living right near the venue is always good!

If you’ve ever been to see Crocodiles in London you will have probably seen the guest of honor and all round brilliant guy, Omar. Omar stole the show at the end, but more of that later. He should be their hypeman. Shouting abuse at the crowd to get them moving. If you’re not moving at a Crocs show, then something is wrong with you. They aren’t a band you stand still to. No way pal.

Crocs treat us to some new songs off their new record, and judging by how good they sounded live I am confident again with declaring their new record to be the best thing to happen in 2015. The last new song they did in the set was my favourite. No idea of song names, but this one was my favourite. Crocs are one of those rare bands that sound better and different with each release. Summer Of Hate is the record that owns a large part of my heart, but each of their records just proves how marvelous they are.  Severely underrated, but the best ones usually are. Of all the times I’ve seen them, last night was possibly the best and it could be down to the magnificent stage invasion at the end to I Wanna Kill.

Personally the best moment for me was them playing Summer Of Hate. I can’t remember if I’ve seen them do it before, but last night felt like it was the first time. It’s my favourite song by them,and if you’ve ever seen a band you love play your favourite song by them live you will understand what that moment means. You don’t feel as if anyone else is around you, and you’re completely and utterly immersed in the moment. It’s a beautiful feeling and maybe, just maybe you haven’t lived until you’ve experienced it.

They opened their set with the anthem for perverts, Marquis de Sade. An anthem you’ve just got to sing a long to. Also, if you read a Marquis de Sade book on public transport, people don’t want to sit near you. It’s brilliant. He was also a fantastic and twisted writer that you need to read. His mind was obscure and perverse, and wonderful. If you don’t like conventional things, go read his work.

The last two songs were insane. They did their cover of Jet Boy Jet Girl (which I am so happy they now play) and were joined by the majestic Omar on vocals. When he isn’t yelling “ASS CLOWN” at Brandon, you can find him near the front loving life. Crocs ended their set with I Wanna Kill which was greeted with a beautiful stage invasion. It was a glorious state of chaos, and every band should do this. I don’t care who you are, you should let your fans get on stage with you and belt out a song. This bit in the set pretty much showed how much they are loved and how their fans really appreciate it when they come to town. In an ideal world I would have the funds to go to a full tour and write words like above about it. They aren’t a band you see just once and that’s it. They’re a band that you have to keep on seeing because the atmosphere at their shows is something else. They are one of the few bands that make me want to just write about music forever. It annoys me how underrated they are, but last night truly showed how loved they are and those that watched them know just how brilliant they are.

Each of them are bloody mesmerising to watch. Charlie flings his guitar about and holds it like a machine gun, Robert beats the living shit out the drums in a glorious fashion, their bassist David (he’s in Hatcham Social, a band I fell in love with at uni many moons ago!) seems to be in a trance as he plays and you fall into it also, Brandon’s voice creates this atmosphere in the room that takes you back in time. I can’t (but will always try to) emphasise enough just how bloody great they are. And also, they are the most loveliest and kind guys you’ll ever meet. I bloody well owe them.

Anyway, obligatory photo with BW and CR :

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JESSIE WARE. Roundhouse. 18th September 2014.

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Exactly a year ago I won tickets to see Jessie Ware at Abbey Road Studios, a year later I win tickets to the iTunes Festival. This meant selling my Fat White Family ticket, but it was fine- it went to a good home.

Anyone who has seen Jessie Ware live (and I don’t mean via the internet) will know she has this indescribable presence that just makes you want to keep seeing her perform live. I don’t know what it is, but as soon as she starts singing even if the songs are heart-breaking, you just feel alright. She has this effortlessly gorgeous voice that doesn’t hit the music industry very often. I know I’ve said it many times but she’s got the soul/passion that I’ve only heard in Sade and Aaliyah’s voice. All three of them have this soft, gentle and reassuring quality to their voice and music. It is a pleasure to listen to.

She opened her set with Running which everyone pretty much went nuts to. But the new songs are really something else. Sure everyone loves Wildest Moments but can we PLEASE just declare Want Your Feeling as the best thing to happen all year? If you don’t dance, even just a little bit to it, then you should see a doctor about your joints. They’re not moving right, go sort yourself out. Her new songs sound beyond brilliant live, so I think we have all reached a mutual understanding that Tough Love is probably going to be one of the best records out this year. We’re all okay with this aren’t we? Good. Every year I find at least one song that I could quite happily play on repeat, all day every day and Want Your Feeling is that song for me this year. I love every little thing about it. The lyrics may be a little sad, but the song just makes me massively happy. My moves to Groove Is In The Heart (my girlfriend will say they are embarrassing, and they probably are) are pretty much similar to what Want Your Feeling makes my limbs do.

Her songs just make you want to turn to the person you love/adore, and to just tell them that. Her songs, even when heart-breaking just ooze a wealth of love that isn’t conveyed enough. Or maybe it is, and Jessie is the only one doing it in a real way. A way that is relatable. However, my attention was lured away from Jessie a few times when I saw a man doing incredible dance moves up in the seating area. His moves were seriously influential and they’ll be taking over dancefloors soon. Hopefully. He was having a ball, and his moves really showed that. Anyone who saw them enjoyed the little hand gestures he was unleashing. I’ll probably be using them.

I read a few reviews of last nights show, and some were bashing the fact that her set consisted of new songs. Her album is out in a few weeks; surely it makes sense for her to use a platform as massive as this festival to play them? Some people are never satisfied, so we ignore them. Her new songs sound gorgeous live, and it is fairly obvious that Tough Love is going to sit nicely next to Devotion as being a fine piece of work. When she performs live, she is someone who really puts their all into it without being forced. You can see just how happy she is to play these new songs, especially Kind Of…Sometimes…Maybe which pretty much makes you want Jessie and Miguel to work with each other all the time. For me, I really loved Cruel and Pieces. You And I (Forever) is brilliant also, basically it is all excellent and you’re daft if you don’t buy her new record.

Last year when I saw her, she had just got engaged to Sam and now when she talks about her husband this captivating glow just takes over her, and you really feel a sense of pure and unconditional love. That’s how it should be. The fact that she is happy but can write painful and heart-breaking love song really shows how brilliant she is. And I do think one thing about Jessie is that she really doesn’t know how good she is. She’s better than good obviously. This humble soul is a credit to the music industry, and I do stand by the fact that she’s my generation’s Sade. She’s a genuine soul whose voice just takes you somewhere else. I wish I had the words to describe just how wonderful she is, but those that love her know.

She’s not released her second record yet, but last night proved that Jessie Ware is easily the best vocalist around. No one else comes close.