Tag Archives: Post Punk

CROWS @YES Manchester 8th April 2022.

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Friday night. The end of one of the most stressful and mentally challenging weeks of my life. Nothing bad, just a lot. A release of sorts was needed. I’m not a drinker, so that’s not my preferred route. Too exhausted to go to the gym. Too mentally alert to try go to sleep. My only option was to go see a band who I’ve dying to see for so long. A band that are just divine to watch, to listen to.

Crows played the Pink Room at YES on Friday night. An upgrade from last time, where they played the basement. I hear Wembley is next. Has to be. Anyway, I won’t get ahead of myself just yet. I want you to really imagine being at this gig because it was truly one of the most healing and ethereal experiences ever (live music wise.) Now, I’ve been obsessing over their new record Beware Believers over the past week or so, and their debut record Silver Tongues for me, was one of the best records of 2019. They’re just such a fantastic band and their live shows are like a religious experience/outer body experience. It definitely wasn’t from this planet at all!

I think like everyone else in the room, we could have happily watched Crows play for hours. The around an hour set wasn’t enough. It’s never enough! But my god that band give everything they have on more on stage. On record you can feel the urgency in James’ vocals, but put the band on stage and everything comes together and it is delivered with this ferociousness that just makes you questions everything around you. His vocals live are phenomenal. The words are screamed and sung with such passion; as if his life depends on it. As if YOUR life depends on it. The words hit harder when you see the band live, and the song for me that made me feel like I had been baptised or whatever was definitely Healing. That song has been on repeat since the record came out, and I’ve got not intention of changing that right now. The lyrics are heartbreaking because they are true, and when you witness this song live it just changes everything for you. Maybe that’s part of the healing?

When the band unleash the old gem that is The Itch (I’m not doing this in order of the setlist) I’m pretty sure I am just covered in goosebumps at this point. It’s out of this world. On the same level of this intensity, we’ve got Garden of England- which is sang back at the band in the most beautiful way. Then you’ve got the likes of Slowly Separate and Room 156 that just shatter your heart but they fix this part of you that you didn’t know you needed. I just think that Crows are the most intense and euphoric bands around and I cannot urge you enough to go see them live. We all end up finding a band that we just have to always see live whenever we can, and I can confirm that Crows are 100% one of those bands.

There’s just something about the atmosphere they create and the way it all just really hits you in the gut. Steve and Jith both have this way of using the guitar and bass to add this unearthly loudness to the show that makes you feel like you are being carried out into the deep unknown. Sam beats the shit out of the drums which fit perfectly with the way James delivers the poetic and intense lyrics/songs. For me, they just capture everything I love about music. Seeing them live has made me appreciate and love their music more than I already do, and I honestly didn’t think that was possible. An absolute joy and honour to see Crows live.

Also, something I want to mention was that Safe Gigs For Women were at the show. It’s a shame that we need them, but thank God they exist. The work they do is remarkable. If you’re able to donate or volunteer with them, please do: https://sgfw.org.uk/

And of course, if you have the chance to see Crows live- take it. Grab that chance; it’ll be the best thing you ever do.

CROWS: Beware Believers.

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In 2019 I wrote about the debut record from Crows. It was full of love and admiration. I was in awe of what I was listening to, and I found it hard to believe that it was only their debut record. Crows are a band that I’m constantly in awe of, and I love how they make me feel like I’m discovering the likes of The Birthday Party for the first time. They are loud, they are raw and they are criminally underrated. Their second record Beware Believers was released last Friday, and trust me- it’s unreal.

11 songs make up this record. 11 heavenly songs that will send you off into some odd dystopian dream/nightmare (I mean you could just take a look outside for this, but let me be a bit dramatic here.) There’s nothing more annoying than someone mentioning the second record curse when writing about a bands second release. Ease off the pressure and stop assuming everyone will release a shit second record. Crows are a band that do not make bad songs nor do they put fillers on their record at all. They make the kind of music to completely let loose to. If something is stressing you out or if you’re carrying some frustrations you just do not need- play this record as loud as you can stand. I’m not playing it as loud as I normally would due to being a little deaf from seeing METZ last night, but I’m brave. I can do this.

This year is clearly the year for exceptional records, and Crows can add their name to the list of bands contributing to this. I don’t think we’re going to hear a record as driven as this one. I don’t think it’s possible for anything to even come close to this record. Crows have been around for ages, and yes, it’s hard to get your heard around the fact that this is only their second record but what’s more difficult is that they haven’t taken over the world yet. Come on now! This needs sorting. I’ve listened to the record a lot the past few days, and I love the way every song flows perfectly into the next. I love how Only Times goes right into Slowly Separate. For me, that’s one of my favourite moments on the record; I love how beautifully chaotic this record, and I love that every song is delivered with such importance. These songs are vital, and you can tell just how much it means to the band.

I’m so excited to see them this week, and to see these songs live. I love when you hear a record, then you finally get to witness it live. You can really feel what the songs mean to the band and you can be part of how they are meant to be heard. Every song on this record, much like their debut, will make you want to trash any room you step into. Do it. Live a little. Throw some shit around, go wild. 

There’s a song on the record call Healing, and there’s a line that goes “I know that everything hurts, and I know that everything can heal” and it probably one of the most important lyrics I’ve heard in a while. Something so simple, but is projected in a way that really gets you right in the gut. I think Healing might be THE song for me on this record. I think it’ll probably be one of the most vital songs I hear all year. I love the vulnerability in the song and I love James’ vocals on this. I feel I could write an essay on this song and why it’s just so important. If they play this on Friday, I’ll probably have a bit of a cry or I’ll be too in awe of what’s happening and just stand there like a gormless twat! I cannot tell you how euphoric the song Room 156 is. This again is one I am so excited to see live (hopefully they play it!) For me, this record has this strong sense of urgency. It feels like the band just HAD to get this record out. Every word, every note played had to be released into the world. Thank God it finally has been.

Every song on this record shows us exactly why Crows are thrilling and a joy to listen to. The darkness but hopefulness in the songs will leave you feeling fragile but okay. There’s something about this record that makes you feel like maybe, maybe, it’ll all be okay. The record ends on Sad Lad which has this beautiful yet eerie feel to it. It’ll break you but by the end of it, you will feel healed. I really hope Crows know how important they are, and how important their songs are. There’s a lot of healing in the lyrics, and the way the it all comes together and just soothes your head and soul is divine. I’m just in awe of how loud and gentle this record is. Sometimes, you just don’t know how much you needed to hear something until it hits you right between the eyes.

Crows start their UK tour tomorrow, and you can get yourself tickets here: https://www.ents24.com/uk/tour-dates/crows-1-1

Go see them and let the healing begin.

METZ @ YES, Manchester 3rd April 2022.

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Sunday. The perfect day to see one of the loudest bands around live. Even better when you have the Monday off to make sure you fully recover and can hear properly. I think the last time I saw METZ live was at YES, and it was such a great show. How was last nights show? Just as great- if not better.

The bands and fans have waited around 2 years for this tour, and it was absolutely worth the wait. METZ are a band that you listen to, and just let everything go to. I didn’t realise how badly I needed to see a band this loud, and when it happened- it was sheer euphoria. I wasn’t brave enough to get right into the crowd, but I had the time of my life on my lonesome at the back. The Pink Room at YES is probably one of the finest venues in this beautiful city. I’d put it up there with the likes of the Moth Club in London. It’s got this feel to it that just makes you feel like you are where you are supposed to be at that time. Anyway, profound shit aside- let’s talk the setlist.

METZ tear the roof off with Pulse- a proper smack in the face jam. A perfect way to open the set. Now, for some this 11 song set may have been too short (I mean I agree- I could happily watch them play for hours and still want more.) but the energy these 3 have on stage is insane. I just want to touch on how phenomenal a drummer Hayden is. On record, you know he’s great but bloody hell when you see METZ live, you truly get to witness how talented they are. Hayden’s drumming is unlike anything else I’ve seen- I can’t even give you a reference of who to liken him to but I promise you- he’s one of those drummers that will go on to influence so many. METZ are just a delight to watch, and the second their show starts you know it’s going to be something that stays with you. Alex’s vocals whilst annihilating the shit out the guitar are a sight to behold. He’s truly something else, and accompanying this you’ve got Chris making the bass sound like a lethal weapon. If you’ve never seen METZ live, then you’re missing out.

The setlist was perfect- cannot fault it. Not like I’d want to anyway! We were treated to Hail Taxi, The Swimmer, Eraser, new song Demolition Row, obviously Get Off (which was dedicated to the support Psychic Graveyard) and ended on A Boat To Drown In. There’s hardly any small talk here (and I’m all for that- bloody hate small talk) and they just keep the songs coming, and getting louder and louder with each song. YES is the perfect venue for a band like METZ. The sound there is great, and it’s a Pink room- what more could you want!

I think their show last night truly showed why METZ are not just one of the best band around full stop, but one of the most thrilling bands to see live. I know they aren’t to everyone’s taste and some may shy away from music as loud as this, but there’s no denying how talented METZ are. Canada’s finest for sure. Every record is a progression in sound, and is a masterpiece, and when you see them live you can’t help but wonder how the hell do only 3 people make this much noise? I’d put the show from last night as being one of the loudest shows I’ve ever been to. Top 3 with Melvins and The Jesus And Mary Chain. Easily.

The show last night was truly worth the wait, and everything you could possibly want from seeing a band that you adore. If annual leave and money wasn’t an issue- I’d happily follow METZ on tour. They are a joy to watch- lets hope we don;t have to wait so long for the next tour!

GHUM: Some People.

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I feel like I have waited FOREVER to write this, but I am SO excited to write that GHUM’s debut record, Bitter will be out THIS YEAR. I am so so excited about this. I can’t put into words. I’m just stupidly excited to hear this record from a band I’ve loved for so long. There’s really no better feeling is there? When a band you adore get to finally put their debut full length record out

Bitter is made up of 9 phenomenal songs; I am confident in saying this because I love this band and going by what they’ve already released so far- it’s a pretty fair statement to make. Today they have also released their new song, Some People which is also accompanied with a pretty great video too. The new song is heavy, but the video is the polar opposite of it and it works so well. The video is directed by the wonderful Lydia Garnett who has blessed the world some wonderfully Queer art. When you take that and mix it with a song from a band you just love- it creates something that just makes your heart burst with utter joy!

There are some bands that when you listen to them, the impact just stays with you. Just this morning I was listening to the band on my way to work, and I felt like I was listening to them for the first time all over again. I’ve got a handful of bands that make me feel like that, and GHUM are easily one of them. I know that their debut record is going to blow our minds and from 17th June onwards- I probably won’t listen to anything but that record. I cannot wait!

The band got together about 6 years ago, so this full length record has been a long time coming. Their two EPs (self-titled and The Coldest Fire) are works of art and you know, it’s a fair call to make to say that Bitter will too be a masterpiece. I’m just so excited to listen to the record.

Check out the artwork here for Bitter:

For me it kind of gives you a hint to how the record will sound; a bit spooky, a bit dark but with tender moments. The band are made up of the best musicians around, and with this strong and distinctive sound they have- they will probably take over the world. Let’s dream big! They deserve it.

It’s an honour to write about a band like GHUM and to see how their sound has strengthened, and also how fearless they are with what they do. This morning I finished reading the book In The Miso Soup, and there’s part of the song that reminds me a little bit of the book: “We’re just ‘some people.’ But I want you to know; there’s some evil in me.” Really makes me think about the book and the ending of it. The book will mess with your head, and so will GHUM’s music to be honest- but all the best art does, right?! The magic in this song is all the way through. You’ve got the sheer intensity of Laura’s vocals that go right into Vicki’s drumming. Then you’ve got MJ and Jojo on bass and guitar creating this eerie atmosphere that pulls you in. You just can’t get enough of this song, of this band.

You can pre-order Bitter here: https://ghum.bandcamp.com/ and the record is out 17th June via Everything Sucks.

GHUM will also be playing a headline show in London at the Sebright Arms on the 22nd April.

DITZ: The Great Regression

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Well, here we are. Another phenomenal record to become obsessed with. Nearly 9pm on a Sunday- the perfect time to play some music that is hectic, beautifully loud and wonderfully aggressive. If like me, you know nothing about the band DITZ, then well, we can go into this journey together. This twisted and eerie journey. You might need to lie down after this one.

DITZ are brilliant, and that’s putting it lightly. There probably aren’t enough words to describe how great they are and how glorious this record is. I love writing about bands I know nothing about. This is their debut record, and with just one listen, I’m finding it hard to believe that this is their first record. I know you get snobs out there who are all “it takes a lot for a record to move me.” Stay away from those people. They’ll make you feel bad for enjoying the music you love. It takes a lot for me to really really obsess over a record. I can listen to something a few times, then I listen to something else and it’s stored in my mind for another day. But every so often, I’ll hear something and I just KNOW it’ll become part of my daily listening. DITZ are probably going to be added to that. I reckon playing this record tomorrow morning on my journey to work blasting in my headphones will set me up nicely for the day. I love my job so there’s no dread there at all. It’s just getting on public transport and some people not being aware of personal space. You know how it is.

DITZ are a band from Brighton, and they have hints of heavy bands like PIGSx7(they’re supporting them in Brussels in May!) , JOHN (John Newton does appear on two tracks on the record) , METZ and maybe a taste of Sly and The Family Drone. Their debut record is a mighty fine masterpiece that will melt your brain. In just 10 songs, they fast become your favourite new band. How could you not fall in love with this sound? I love the sheer chaos in this record, and I love how it really smacks you in the face- especially on Three. That song is something else. It takes on a different direction midway, and it just blows your mind. I reckon this live will be a mental experience. The whole record was made to be witnessed live. You can just feel the sheer intensity on this record, and you just know it’ll be even more intense live. There’s something about this band that just makes you zone out from your surroundings and all you can do is let the record completely take over your brain. I don’t want to listen to anything else right now. I just want to soak up this record and play it at any chance I get. Trust me- it is beyond all I’ve described. My words don’t do it justice at all.

The band have been together since 2015, so this record has been brewing for years. They do say that good things come to those who wait, and that is so apparent with this record. They honestly couldn’t have made a better record, it’s just glorious. You’ve got the stunning single, I Am Kate Moss on there and it sounds even better as part of a full record. That song was just a taste of what DITZ are capable of. The record just shows us in 10 songs what they are made of and why they need to be heard. They must be heard. The record ends with the No Thanks, I’m Full which is just under 7 minutes long. Again, this is another song that will be ridiculous live! It closes the record, but it also makes you smack the play button and play the record from the start all over again. With every listen, you’ll pick up on new things to love about the record and the band

Something I really love about the record is that each song gets heavier and heavier. Halfway through and you’ll be right in thinking your eardrums have burst. That heaviness is part of why I really love this band, and why this record is just a real gem. It’s definitely one to treasure and it’s one of those records that you know in years to come, people will be talking about how great it is. Everything from the production to the sound to the vocals to the artwork is just divine. A flawless record that you just cannot get enough of.

There’s something truly special about this record. Although it’s a record that is so easy to love, it’s definitely difficult to pick one solid favourite song. I think if you’re looking for something really heavy, the latter part of the record will appeal to you. I just adore the record. Every single song on The Great Regression is perfect, and it’ll make you wish you could join the band. Imagine being in a band like this, and creating music like this. The band may have gone through some line-up changes over the years, but this record is a solid statement as to who they are and why they deserve to be heard.

BULLET GIRL: McViolence.

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Given the state of the world at the moment, a song like this seems, sadly, very apt. It’s hard to avoid the news and it’s even harder to not feel helpless. All you can do is hope it all gets better, and that feels like such a throwaway comment to make. I know. I know. Sometimes you just look at the state of the world, and words fail you don’t they. I guess when words fail you, you can turn to music in the hopes someone else can say what you’re carrying round.

Bullet Girl are a band I’ve written about previously, and will be a band I carry on talking about for as long as they make music. They are back with a new single/video called McViolence and like I said above, this song is pretty apt write now. The dual vocals with Aaron and Dylan on the chorus is exceptional- I reckon this song live will be something else!

As I write this on my lunch break at work and have the song on repeat, I can’t help but think that Bullet Girl are quite possibly, from another planet. How can a band be this good?! Well, I only write about music I love and when I listen to Bullet Girl, I can’t help but get excited for what they’ll do next and for their future. McViolence is a heavy song in every sense of the word; taken from the press release, “The song was inspired by an unprovoked attack on two of the band members from a group of teenagers in their hometown.” Remember when My Chemical Romance sang, “Teenagers scare the living shit out of me.” That fear is something that never goes. But, we must remember that regardless of age, gender, race etc- there is good and bad in everyone and everywhere.

McViolence is a hard look at this horrible culture of toxic masculinity, and Bullet Girl aren’t a band to shy away from topics most would try turn away from. The song is extremely powerful and a beautiful piece of noise. The video shows violent clips (which you’re advised to proceed with caution) but these clips really show the essence of toxic masculinity and how it is something that’s always been there. We can live in hope that it dies out because it’s just such an ugly way to be. Although a heavy topic, the song is insanely brilliant and shows us what we can expected from their debut EP, Talking Pony which will be released on the 15th April via Blue Organ Records and has been produced by the brilliant Daniel Fox from Girl Band. I cannot wait to hear it and to play it religiously. That’s the only way to listen to Bullet Girl- constantly.

Around the release of the debut EP, the band will be playing some dates:

17th March: The Good Mixer, London

7th May: R-Fest, Manchester (Retro Bar)

24th September: Post Punk Strikes Back, Porto

Further dates will be announced soon!

BAMBARA: Love On My Mind.

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Before I get into how remarkable this record; I just want to touch on how I nearly missed out on tickets for their UK tour. Fortunately, the venue for Manchester got upgraded to Gorilla so I managed to get a ticket. No one should miss out on seeing this band live, so do the right thing and grab a ticket from here: https://www.seetickets.com/tour/bambara (also use Twickets if any have sold out!)

Right, the record.

There’s no set way to describe the sound and style of Bambara that does them justice. Nothing and no one can define them- they are THAT good. ‘Good’ isn’t even strong enough a word to use. Can you tell that I love this band a hell of a lot? I love how their music feels like a Henry Miller novel brought to life. I love the seediness in the songs. I love the poetry. I love the romanticism. I love the way the songs sound. I love how Reid’s voice can sound like a snarl but gentle at the same time. Everything about this new release just oozes perfection. I’m obsessed with every single song. If you don’t get goose bumps from this record, then turn the volume up a bit more!

Feelin’ Like A Funeral is a masterpiece (every song is but this one right now sticks out) and you find yourself going back to it, over and over. Just to really pick up on how stunning the lyrics are. You want to live in the world they have created with this song. In fact, you’ll pretty much feel that way when you listen to all of their songs. You’ll feel like you’ve been downing really strong whisky in a dive bar and you then stumble into the night, with no set place to go. The songs will echo in your brain and you won’t feel alone. Or, you could just stick your headphones on and see where your mind takes you.

The record ends on the euphoric Little Wars. The last minute or so of this song is divine. It becomes heavier and heavier (sound wise) but the vocals add this beautiful softness. It is such a glorious way to end the record and it’s no surprise that you’ll end up playing the record all over again. This mini LP is just a joy to listen to. The lyrics are more personal than on their previous records and that’s just one of the many reasons to not just love this record, but the band. They constantly evolve. The song writing is just a stroke of genius, as always.

What I adore about Bambara is that you simply cannot put their sound next to someone else’s. It is a completely different and unique sound, and I know that is so cliched and bloody typical, but there’s really no other band around that are like them. That’s what makes the band a real joy to listen to; with every listen it is like you are discovering them for the first time. I love the heaviness in their sound and I love the occasional gentleness in the vocals. Put that together and you get a really exciting band. For me, this is the band at their absolute best and of course like any great band- they leave you wanting more and more.

Love On My Mind may only consist of 6 songs, but it is the perfect step into what we’ll get next from them. But before all that, it just makes you so excited for the tour that’s coming up. These songs are going to absolutely rip live. Can you imagine hearing Point And Shoot, and Feelin’ Like A Funeral live? Holy shit!

WET TROPICS

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When you hear something new for the first time, everything around you stops. Time freezes- but only for you. Everyone else gets on with their day but you stand frozen, as what you are hearing starts to take grip on you. It’s just one of the many ways music can grip you.

Wet Tropics are just a great band and a joy to listen to. They have this really loud sound and there’s something about this massive sound that just has you hooked right away. Think bands like Fontaines DC and The Murder Capital. That dark, haunting and poetic sound that just gets right into your soul and under your skin in the best way imaginable.

Everybody Get In was released a year ago, and even though I’m one of the late ones discovering this band- there is something about this record that is just bigger than anything else you’ve ever heard before. The songs were made to be played in sweaty venues with a smoke machine covering the band and crowd, and we all leave a little hard of hearing afterwards. They have a gorgeous Post-Punk sound with hints of something we’ve never heard before. You cannot help but fall in love with their sound and to just get completely immersed in it. Sack off those awful Christmas songs we are forced to listen to, and play some Wet Tropics.

There’s hints of early The Jesus and Mary Chain on the record- and by that, I mean that beautifully aggressive fuzzy sound that was made to be played horrifically loud and make your windows shake. God bless this record and Wet Tropics! I think there’s possible only 3 of them in the band but they so much louder than the 3 of them. It’s an addictive sound. Tragic Accidents is their Just Like Honey moment, and it’s beautiful.

The drums are exceptional- they feel like a volcano about to erupt. Then you’ve got the bass and the guitar coming together like a hurricane on every single song. They are a joy to listen to, and when you listen to them for the first time you can’t help but think “How did I go this long without this band?!” I love the storytelling in the lyrics; it reminds me a tiny bit of The Fall and that is always a good thing.

There may only be 9 songs on Everybody Get In, but the beauty is that you can just keep hitting repeat over and over. They released the song, Rat Shredder 9 days ago and it sounds completely different to what we were given on Everybody Get In, but they still have this sound that makes your brain immediately click into it and know it’s them. There’s this brilliant rage and menacing tone to Rat Shredder. Effortlessly slick! If you’re a fan of Table Scraps, then you’ll definitely love this song for sure.

Wet Tropics are one of my favourite finds of the year for sure. I just love their sound and how it doesn’t fall into any set genre. For me, it’s the best kind of noise and the kind if noise I can play continuously and never ever get tired of. I’m so excited to hear more from them!

Play their music loud!

BULLET GIRL.

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If you are looking for a band to really rip through your body, chew and spit out your guts, and make you feel alive- then I’ve got the band for you. That band is Bullet Girl. This band are something else. You know when you hear something for the first time, and you feel like the only one who has heard this and you just want to tell any and everyone about them? That’s EXACTLY how Bullet Girl make you feel. That feeling, that rush you get from finding a band for the first time is unlike anything else you’ll ever feel, and it is one of the greatest feelings in the world. It’s a feeling that makes you feel 10 feet tall. It’s a feeling that cancels out all the band in your mind briefly as you completely lose yourself in the band. Their music becomes every single part of you; you drown the world out and allow yourself to be consumed by the band. Is this too heavy? Not even a fraction.

Bullet Girl are exceptional, and that’s putting it mildly. We have bands like Fontaines, The Murder Capital and IDLES who are excellent at helping us feel safe and alright with expressing how we feel. They take ugly feelings and make them beautiful. Bullet Girl are pros at this too.  Their music is made to be played ridiculously loud. My work pals got me some great headphones for my birthday last week, and listening to Bullet Girl through this is just blowing my mind and my ears. I’m probably going to make myself deaf listening to this band, but it’s fine. I’ll be in a state of bliss as it happens.

They only have a handful of songs out so far, and of course it’s Concrete Bed that is the absolute monster of a song. That song was made to be played anywhere, everywhere and all the time. Imagine this in a massive stadium and everyone is screaming along. It would be unreal. Bullet Girl aren’t afraid to share what they know with the world, and they are true poets. Their songs are made to be played loud and sung even louder. They have everything you could possibly want from a band and more. If you’re looking for a band to become your life, then Bullet Girl are THE band for you, you and YOU. They are for any and everyone. They are an absolute joy to listen to. They go beyond being a Post-Punk band; there’s no way you can define this band. They make you want to sack everything off and live a life of sin in Dublin. Spend your days in a drunken haze, wandering around without a care in the world. I just really, really love this band. It was an instant love.

Panic 2020 reminds me a bit of the Pixies mixed with Talking Heads; but every song on theirs is just out of this world. You can lump them in a genre if you want or must, but this band are something else. Just when you think you’ve heard it all before, you find yourself completely immersed in Bullet Girl and it’s just as if you are hearing music for the first time. This is magical. This is worth sticking around for.

Their latest song, The Hunt is a brutal piece of art. Play this in the dead of night, or early morning when the early morning mist comprises everything you can see. The Hunt is their anthem. It’s got such a bite to it and that beautiful aggression in this song is just divine. It’ll make you feel like you’ve gone a few rounds in the ring with a real bruiser. You’ll feel weak after but fucking alive.

It’s nearly the end of another shitty year, but I think we can finally say that Bullet Girl are the band of 2021 and beyond. I honestly don’t think I’ll hear anything else that’ll move me like this for a long time. I’m open to it, but Bullet Girl are just something else. Every single song feels like it was made to be part of you and to feed into your daily life; especially those times where everything just feels a bit off. Bullet Girl make sense. Bullet Girl are quite frankly, the future.

VIAGRA BOYS: Welfare Jazz.

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Weiner dawgs! It is finally here- the new record by Viagra Boys! Is it going to be the best thing to happen this year? More than likely. The only thing to top it would be if bands could tour again. We can only hope.

Anyway, the record is obviously brilliant because it is Viagra Boys. They just don’t have it in them to do anything half arsed or boring; they are truly one of the most exciting bands around and does anyone else sound like them? Absolutely not! They are one of a kind, and they are just exceptional. This record is one you won’t just play once and be done with it. It’s the kind of record that you become obsessed with. You’ll talk about it to anyone who will listen, and even if no one listens- you’re still going to let them know about it. Right away you just know it is going to be a remarkable record, and the opener Ain’t Nice just smacks you right in the face. Beautiful!

I love how the record sounds like it was made to be played so loud, and often. I love every single sound on this record and that Blues-like feel that is in Sebastian’s voice is just fucking divine. They have all gone above and beyond with this record. In some parts, when I listen to this record, I feel like I am listening to Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds for the very first time. There is so much going on and so much to take in, which is why you need to just keep on playing this record.

I’ve played it a few times already and I can safely say that I am obsessed with Toad. There is something about this song that reminds me of Suicide mixed with Nick Cave and Captain Beefheart. It is a masterpiece, and it’s probably going to be one of the best things I’ll ever listen to. Probably. It feels like something you’d get from one of the Beat Poets- there’s a lot of soul, trouble and passion in the song, and I think that’s what just keeps me going right back to it. Then it goes right into This Old Dog and before you know it, you are lost in the sounds of Into The Sun. For me, the way this flows is just impeccable. Some like to listen to a record in order and some don’t. Regardless of your preference, listen to this record in full and in order. Do not skip anything, do not assume you need to change up the flow of the songs. Just soak it all up in order. After that, do what you will. But honestly, listening to it in order is the best way.

Into The Sun will break your heart. The honesty and the vulnerability in the vocals and lyrics are just beautiful. It is so painful and heart-breaking but my god it is so beautiful. If anyone ever doubts the talent of this band, then show them the lyrics to this because it is just so fragile and open. This is the same band that opened the record with the face-melting Ain’t Nice- remember that!

Every single song on this record needs to be heard, and if you’re looking for one to play a bit louder then you need to make it 6 Shooter. Play that gem as loud as you can. It is was made to be played loud. I think the whole record was, but this one needs to be turned up a little louder. There is one song on the record that I need to mention, because it features one of the best vocalists around- Amy Taylor from Amyl & The Sniffers.

The record ends with a cover of In Spite Of Ourselves, and Sebastian and Amy’s vocals together are just beautiful. It works so well, and to hear their voices calmer than what we are used to just shows us how incredible they are. It’s such a gorgeous song, and I could happily listen to a record of them both together. It is just so beautifully sung and put together; I could listen to this forever and not get bored.

I could happily write thousands of words about why this record is sublime; there is so much to love about this record. I’m in awe of how they have gone from Street Worms to Welfare Jazz; you can hear the growth, but you can also hear that same rugged sound that we all love and treasure. I’m slowly getting better from having that pissing Coronavirus, and I’ve had next to no interest in listening to music let alone write about it. Welfare Jazz was exactly what I needed today. It’s more than a Punk record. It’s more than just 13 songs. It’s something else, something that goes beyond my words or anyone else’s.

Is it their masterpiece? Of course, it is. Street Worms was too, and everything they will do will more than likely be a masterpiece. I just really love this band. That’s all this is really. A declaration of love for a band that I am obsessed with.