Tag Archives: Rock

THE KILLS: God Games

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One of the best things in the world is the band you absolutely love with everything you have, return after a long time with a new record. For me, The Kills will ALWAYS own a part of me that a person could never get close to. That could be to do with me closing parts down, or just because I really love this band with all I have. I’ve loved them from the start, and I’ll love them beyond the end. Incapable of ever releasing anything bad- I knew God Games was going to blow my mind. Every record of theirs has, and every record has been part of my life during good and bad moments. I’m content, so I can attribute this record to finally feeling alright.

The only song I had heard prior to God Games was New York. I made a painful decision to listen to that and only that- I wanted the whole record to be a surprise. I didn’t want to assume the record would have a set sound. I heard New York and, in my bones, I knew it’d be a phenomenal record but I wanted to wait. I wanted to wait it out because I knew I could treasure the moment more of when I could sit down and REALLY listen to the record. And oh boy, listen I bloody have done since Friday.

I don’t need to tell you how great New York is. It’s a typical sound of Alison and Jamie- that machine gun guitar sound that you cannot get tired of. It flows throughout the whole record. The way New York slips right into Going To Heaven is so slick. Two songs in, and I know I’m listening to something that is going to annihilate anything I’ve heard before. It’s such a powerful record, and every song is just perfect. I only know how to write about The Kills as a fan so whatever I write down will probably only appeal to anyone who loves this band. There is something about them that’s quite difficult to put into words because they aren’t good enough. I’ve been writing about the band for a hell of a long time, and they are one of the bands that just make me want to write and write. Going To Heaven sets a tone of the first part of the record, and the way it Going To Heaven goes into LA Hex is like the journey you take from falling into the pits of Hell but coming out of it tougher but still wary. Alison and Jamie’s vocals together on LA Hex is just gorgeous. I love when they sing together like this, because you can really hear how much they mean to each other, and how much what they create together means to them. The way they sing, “I’ve still got my ways you know; I’ve still got my ways.” Really gets you in the gut, then it kicks in around the last minute or so with this massive Gospel sound that just makes you feel like you’ve reached nirvana or something.

God Games has a very early sound of The Kills. Not as heavy as No Wow but definitely on the mellower side of Keep On Your Mean Side and has parts that will remind you of the sweet sound of Midnight Boom for sure, and it’s definitely clear on Love And Tenderness- this easily could have been on Midnight Boom and sounded perfect there too. You’ve got the gun-reloading sound on 103 that’s just unreal. The way Alison sings, “Keep me on the tip of your tongue” is just sublime- her delivery of lines like this always sticks with you. The way Alison and Jamie write about the world around them, their world, and the world they’ve created with their music is just perfect. It’s a safe space for the mind, and that’s part of the reason why I love them. I could bore someone to tears with the reasons why I love this band so much, but I like to think if someone listened to them, they’d get it right away.

My Girls My Girls is the halfway point of the record, and the relaxed sound on this mixed with Jamie’s distinctive guitar sound is heavenly. From first listen, it definitely became an immediate favourite. I love the sorrowfulness in the lyrics, and how you kind of feel alright with bouts of loneliness because songs like this keep you going don’t, they. Music keeps you going when you feel like your chest is tightening. Again, it’s another great song where Alison and Jamie’s vocals together are just divine. This is the kind of song you play at 2am when you cannot sleep and don’t want to disturb anyone; you play it a few times then allow yourself to fall asleep gently. The last 20 seconds or so of this one with those Gospel sounds again are just so pure and beautiful.

Wasterpiece lifts off the second part of the record, and it feels like it could be featured in some lo-fi film made by uni students- it’s incredible. The whole record has a strong film feeling to it, and by that, I mean every song on this record could be part of a soundtrack. I’d love for The Kills to create a film, with a soundtrack to match. Can you imagine how great it would be? They could easily take an Arthur Nersessian book and turn it into a film (he’s one of my favourite authors of all time, and it’s a crime how underrated he is.)

Kingdom Come is a different side of The Kills- I don’t know how to describe it, but there’s a heaviness in the intro that just makes you nod your head in a way that no other song on the record has yet. Every song on this record will make you move in some way, but Kingdom Come does something else. There’s a dark, dark Country and a hint of Blues sound on this one, and I think it’s down to Jamie and is genius ways with the guitar. Honestly, you cannot find anyone else out there who makes noise like him. The man is a genius, I won’t let anyone ever tell me any different. We then ride into God Games, a side of the band that I love. The heaviness, the darkness and the more slowed down side to them. I think the lyrics on this are some of the finest they’ve written, and definitely up there as being some of the best on the record. I love how they can just take you someplace so sacred with their art- because that’s what this is. Their music is a work of art- always. They create masterpieces every single time, and the ease of God Games going into Blank is again, another truly heavenly moment. Remember when they had a waltz number on Blood Pressures? The Last Goodbye; one of the very few songs by them that can make me cry instantly. Blank is their That Love, The Last Goodbye of God Games. A precious and heartbreaking song; I’m not sure how I’ve not cried over this song, but my god it will break your heart. It is powerful and just so brutally honest.

Bullet Sound is my favourite. I know I love the whole record with all I have, but Bullet Sound is the one that has really gripped me. It’s the kind of song you want playing when you need to feel confident or a little sure of yourself to get through the day. My god this is The Kills giving us everything they have and more on this record, and Bullet Sound really shows it. This is the one I NEED to see live. I just know it’ll be one of the best moments ever. Alison’s vocals on this are my absolute favourite. I love that they both have distinctive sounds- Jamie with his machine gun guitar and Alison with her bullet-like vocals. Bullet Sound is something else. It truly is. I feel like this is the song by The Kills that I needed; every part of me needed it. The drums on this mixed with the way Jamie treats the guitar like a weapon- that’s The Kills. The way Alison’s vocals will comfort but also probably shit you up a bit- that’s The Kills. Everything I love about this band is poured into this record.

Then it ends. It ends gently with Better Days. No other song could wrap up this record in such a perfect way. The production of this record, the sound, the lyrics, the way the songs flow perfectly into each other- it’s just a sincere work of art. It’s utterly flawless. I mean sure we want more songs, and we want them to last longer but the beauty of The Kills is that we have so much music from them, and God Games just sounds so perfect after a listen to their last record, Ash & Ice.

7 years we had to wait for this, and a lot has happened in the world since. God Games is a true reflection of their sound and how no other band can ever come close to what they do. I didn’t think I’d be writing over 1550 words about this record, with Columbo on in the background but here I am. Just a fan of The Kills, who loves them unconditionally, for always. Some bands leave a mark on you in ways you didn’t think a band could- Alison and Jamie have done just that again.

The coolest band on the planet have given us the coolest (and best) record of the year, again.

PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS: Land Of Sleeper.

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Are you looking for the loudest record of the year? Do you want something that’ll burst your eardrums in the most pleasant way possible? Pigsx7 have gone and done it with their new record, Land Of Sleeper. 8 songs that are sheer delight, absolute carnage and beautifully loud.

Writing about this band brings me so much joy. I just LOVE them. They combine everything I love about music, and everything I want from music and just make something that is effortlessly slick and charming. This morning on the way to work, I had a horrible pain in my chest. I knew what was coming- it was the start of a panic attack. I needed to somehow tame my mind to deter something from happening. I started to listen to some meditation for anxiety on Spotify. I found myself getting wound up over the persons voice and how it felt like they were being patronising. I hated it. I needed something but I didn’t know what. So, I went and found something to listen to. Again, I found myself turning to Pigsx7. I tuned into the new record once more. I don’t know what happened, but I felt almost calm. My brain was tame, the pain in my chest wasn’t as bad. I was alright. It probably seems strange to have something so loud be a calming force- but that’s just what they do. I don’t know if it’s the vocals or the heaviness of the sound. It just feels like a massive grip around me offering reassurance.

It is such an incredible record, and I know I say it every time I write about Newcastle’s finest- but there is something about this band that is so magical and so euphoric. There’s this aggression in the music and vocals that doesn’t make you feel threatened- it makes you feel quite safe. Every time they’ve toured something has gotten in the way of me seeing them but I’m determined to see them this year. I just need to. I have to. They’re the kind of band that you have to really focus on. You can’t just mindlessly play a song and be like, “oh this is nice.” You have to really soak it all in, and I think that’s why listening to them this morning when I felt awful truly helped. I wasn’t aware of anything or anyone around me- just this record. I think it was Big Rig that saved my brain this morning, but if I’m honest- every song on this record is a dream to listen to.

The vibrations in the songs, the way every song moves you in a psychedelic way allowing you to be free with your limbs and screaming the words back at Matt is just insane. You can hear how they poured their everything into this record, and it’s evident in their previous records. This band don’t make shit songs- ever. They don’t have one bad song. They are consistently excellent, and Land Of Sleeper massively shows this. Every song is a call to action and a bolt of reassurance for the soul. Most of the songs on the record last over 5 minutes, and I think for me that’s part of the attraction. I love how their songs feel like stories or a journey. I feel like I’m being taken into a sacred world and Pigsx7 are the leaders. I’ve said it before but when I listen to them- i feel like I’m listening to Melvins and Sleep for the first time. Those two bands are vital and shaped a lot of the music I listen to, and to hear a band like Pigsx7- they complete my holy trinity in a way! I honestly cannot praise this record enough. I’m going back to Big Rig again- the last 2 minutes of this songs turn into some obscure instrumental that will blow your mind. You can’t help but dig it- it’s incredible!

Land Of Sleeper is made up of anthems that need to be heard as loud as possible. There’s this raw energy on this record that has developed from each record they’ve put out- this is THEIR record, and I love how you can tell that they have and always will make music that is for THEM and no one else. It’s how THEY want to sound. Perfection is subjective, but come on now- this is another perfect record by the band. There’s a lot of pent up emotions and rage being released on this record.

For me, a lot of the songs have that same outpouring that’s on Release The Bats by The Birthday Party. I can’t explain it- I just know that there’s a similar link in how it’s poured out. I’m just in awe of this record and how yet again, Pigsx7 have gone and done it with another masterpiece.

BIG DIPPER.

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Here’s something for you to get wonderfully lost in- the new project by Alec Hatcher; Big Dipper.

If you’ve ever heard anything Alec’s done before, you’ll know exactly what to expect and you’ll know just how great it will sound. But, if you’re new to his genius then I’ll let you in on a little secret- you’re going to fall in love with his Big Dipper project.

This is a real raw and gritty record. It’s Bluesy, it’s Punk, it’s out of this world. It’s like The Cramps meets Muddy Waters and collides with Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. It’s a work of art, and for me- it’s just one of the finest records I’ve heard so far. The record opens with Biscuits and Gravy which you just know would sound perfect in a dive bar in the middle of nowhere. It’s a song for the outlaws and rebels. The whole record is for us degenerates who don’t quite click with what’s around them. It’s just a perfect record, and I implore you to get obsessed with it.

The six songs on this record were clearly made to be witnessed live. They are brand new songs, and were only recorded between January and February this year. The songs are brand new, but you totally feel like you’ve gone way back in time listening to this record. There’s something really nostalgic about this record. It takes you way back, and I think if you don’t become obsessed with it, then you’re not listening to it properly.

If you’re in London next month, then get yourself to the Shacklewell Arms on the 15th June (the show on the 19th is sold out) and witness Big Dipper and Hemi Hemingway LIVE. If that isn’t a dream lineup, and the ideal first gig to attend since all this shit started, then I really don’t know what is! If I still lived in London, I’d be at that show just having the best time of my life. I’ll be there in spirit. But for now, we’ve got the record to treasure and adore.

Every single song on this record is just divine. I love Alec’s storytelling and his way to tap into this rogue way of living, and just describing it all in the most poetic way possible. I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if he wrote a book or several in the future. Can you imagine how dark, witty and insane it would be? It’d be a modern classic (no pressure Alec, you don’t have to do this ha!)

If the inner sadist in you wants to have your heart broken, then play I’m Bad. It’s heartbreaking but so beautiful. It’s the song that every and anyone can relate to. It will truly leave you feeling like your heart has been ripped out, and it definitely shows us how great Alec is vocally too. It’s such a beautiful song, and I reckon this live will be stunning. I feel it will leave everyone floored. It is such a gut-wrenching song, and you just can’t get enough of it. There’s something about this song that will just stick with you. Maybe it will leave you unsettled at first, but after the second listen you’ll realise that it is a masterpiece.

I could write thousands of words about why this record is divine, but it’s obvious right from the start that this is one of those records that will just stick with you. It’s so cool and just a joy to listen to. You feel invincible listening to this record, and it really hits you on My Friend Dip. That song will make you feel ten feet tall. Again, this is another song that will just sound grand live. These songs are made to be heard live, but until we live in a world where we can all scream these songs back at Alec in dive bars- just play the record religiously.

This record could be the soundtrack to a Western film from years gone by, or it could be the soundtrack to your life. It is simply, one of the best records you will hear all year.

BIRTHMARKS: …And Then The Rain Stopped.

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I always thought I’d find it difficult to write about friends I have in bands, but it turns out it’s pretty easy- especially when you love and believe in what they do. Little Death Machine were a band that I absolutely adored and couldn’t get enough of. That band ended, and from it Daniel formed Birthmarks with his pals- Jason and Jonno. As I listen to their debut full length record, I can hear parts of LDM but also a sound of bands/singers I love. It’s a brilliant record, and the fact that Kerrang Magazine have written about them is also a huge deal. Again, another thing to be proud of.

…And Then The Rain Stopped is out next Friday, and with all this painful doom and gloom surrounding us right now, for me, I’m finding comfort in music more than ever. The record starts with How Do You Rule Me which gives me feelings of Bjork (Army Of Me flows right through this) early Placebo and hints of Nine Inch Nails. Basically, this song and the whole damn record sounds like heaven. Daniel’s voice has never sounded so good and so powerful, and when you marry this up with Jason’s drumming and Jonno’s bass playing; you just get something that feeds your soul and beautifully consumes every part of you.

The lyrics will get you right in the gut, and if the song Breathe doesn’t move you then I really don’t know what will. The record is full of songs that will break your heart, but you won’t mind because it will also give you comfort. That’s all you can ask for. If something breaks you, chances are it can comfort you also. The vocals are as raw and as exposed as the lyrics, and because you can truly hear the honesty and feel every single emotion on the songs- you cannot help but connect with them. There’s something so haunting about the whole record, and the darkness on this record really does get you right in the gut. For some it may be uncomfortable but for others, it’s a lifeline. The record is a work of art. I knew it was going to be something truly remarkable, but it goes above and beyond what I or anyone else could ever write about this record.

 

 

The songs touch on everything from love to loss, and all that goes with it.  Daniel’s mentioned that this record took 5 years to make, and you can absolutely hear the hardwork and dedication from them all on this record. I’m obsessed with the drums on this record, and how they heighten the emotions on this record. You have songs like Wax which is such a stripped back and vulnerable song, and it is one of the more tender moments on the record. Again, you can hear the raw emotion in the vocals on this but then it goes right into You Are One which could very well be the anthem for the band. You can imagine the crowd going nuts to this at their shows, it’s got such a grand feel to it and you cannot help but get immersed in it. The way the synths and guitar go together on this is just fantastic, and the way the guitar and drums get heavy at the same time just blows your mind. This one really homes in on the feeling of loss and a sense of betrayal, and it’s a brutal listen but it’s just another reason as to why you cannot help but love this band, and this record.

As far as debut records go, it’s fair to say that this is nothing short of incredible. The production is flawless, and the way the songs sound is just remarkable. It’s hard to believe that this is their debut full length record, and like I mentioned, you can really hear the hardwork in this record. Charcoal is a fierce song, it sounds like it should be in some disturbing thriller, and to be honest I really do see Birthmarks creating the soundtracks for films. This whole record sounds like it was made for a film; it’s a very theatrical record, and the atmosphere on the record will just send shivers right through you. It’s a very dark record, and I love how brutal some of the lyrics are and how fucking honest they are. Charcoal is like a cut to the soul, but you keep digging at it. The record is like an open wound that you cannot help but mess with. It’ll disturb you, you’ll wince, and it will be the best thing you’ve ever heard. I adore this record, and I just respect anyone who is this honest with their art.

The record touches so beautifully on human nature and how we fuck up, how others fuck us up and how it can be a vicious cycle at times. I love how experimental the record is, and how it doesn’t fall into any genre or any sub-genre. It feels like a film, a work of art. If this is what we get from a debut record, then there’s no telling what else they can do. It’s obvious it’s going to be mind-blowing, but I’m just massively in awe of this record and how they’ve all played their part in creating this gorgeous record. Pale and Midnight Blue are prime examples of how talented the band are, and I love that every song on this record gives them all their own moments to shine.

 

 

…And Then The Rain Stopped is mixture of every human emotion possible, it is the beauty of carrying feelings and it is the burden of being a human in one. It is a complex listen, and I can only advise that you listen to this record the first time round on your own, and in order. Just soak up the record. Once you’ve done this, listen however you want. We’re all looking for comfort and the like in isolation, and this record is everything we could possibly need and more. Birthmarks have made the record that makes me want to write about it constantly. Bands like this are why I write about music, and why I refuse to ever do this for money. It has to be for the love of it, and I will only ever write about what I love. Birthmarks have truly made something special here, and I sincerely hope that anyone who listens to this record feels the same because it NEEDS to be heard.

Allow yourself to feel vulnerable, and just open your mind up to this record. It’ll be alright.

Pre-order the record here and you’ll also find their cover of one of the most beautiful songs ever written, True Love Will Find You In The End by Daniel Johnston.

THE BATTERY FARM.

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TBF

 

Manchester, Manchester. The greatest city in the world. A city that feels like home; it’s just the best. There are so many bands to have come from this beautiful city that I get to call home, and there a wealth of new bands emerging that, in time, will be regarded as highly as those before them.

 A band that most certainly demand your attention are The Battery Farm. They have a new single out in a couple of weeks, and this single’s subject matter is mental health. It is about lead singer, Ben’s struggle with his own mental health issues and this stigma that surrounds masculinity and speaking up about mental health. More than ever, we are embracing opening up- bands like IDLES are so encouraging with regards to speaking up. Then again, what kind of dickhead would want someone to shut up about it? Yesterday was World Mental Health Day, but that doesn’t mean that we stop talking or stop checking up on friends. We all have our own struggles; I’m open about mine but of course, hypocritically, I wish I wasn’t. I’m doing my best to write more about music, so I don’t have to “deal” with the two deaths I experienced so close to each other. One I can handle, but losing my Gran? I’ll never get a grip on that. Anyway, personal rant aside- let’s talk about music.

The Battery Farm consist of two brothers and two pals (the brothers are pals too obviously!) These 4 lads are making the kind of noisy Punk that makes you want to do something positive as well as trashing your room. They are a band to be hugely proud of, and not just because they are talking about things we tend to shy away from. They’ve been getting a fair bit of exposure, and I’ll post tour dates at the end. But what we need to discuss is their style and how they are such a bold, and vital band.

 

 

 Their debut single, 97/91 came out a couple of months ago. It’s got that beautiful heavy sound that is in bands like IDLES, The Murder Capital and Fontaines D.C. They aren’t afraid to have this openness and darkness in their sound, and I love it. I absolutely love this song. I love how you can feel every ounce of passion in Ben’s voice, and how the band just play with this infectious fury that just spurs you on. You cannot help but feel every single word- some people sing from their heart, some sing from their gut. Ben definitely sings from his gut, and that’s where this urgency is coming from. There is so much weight to their sound, and I love the dark tones and how they really are a fearless band. Their songs could easily be in some creepy Thriller film, or it could come to you in your dreams. It is frantic in the best way possible. I’d say I cannot praise this band enough, but I probably can. And will.

 Their songs are perfect for venues like our beloved Soup Kitchen, The Castle etc. but they could so very easily be blasted out in stadiums with every single person screaming along. Imagine that? Imagine everyone yelling the words to 97/91. It is such a powerful song, and although I know I should be going back to their new one, I Am A Man; this song has a ferocious grip on my ears. In fact, both songs do. So, let’s move on.

I Am A Man is a totally different sound to 97/91, and it works so well. Their new single as mentioned, is about Ben’s own struggles. It is so easy to relate to these lyrics; “I wanna talk but I don’t know how” is such a simple line, but it holds so much. It’s the way it is chanted by the band, and how it just completely sums up the whole stigma around mental health. Many do want to talk, and they have no idea where to start or even where to go. With just 2 songs, The Battery Farm have made a vital impact- and with I Am A Man the beautiful Mancunian snarl just nails it. The sheer honesty and openness in this aren’t fragile at all- it is brave. I’m aware that calling someone brave can sometimes be condescending but it is said here with the utmost respect. They just make you connect with them in ways bands that have been around for decades haven’t done yet. The words are sheer poetry, and they are merged with the most brutal drums, bass and guitar imaginable. It works so well and you cannot help but smack repeat on it. The lyrics become a mantra- we need more bands like this.

 

 

 

 

The Battery Farm have described their sound as, “frantic, visceral and violent.” It’s a pretty spot on description- but don’t let the violent part put you off. In this instance, that violent sound comes from daily frustrations and just wanting to change something, anything. It’s the vital force of their sound that makes you feel like you are pushing yourself through a wall of people to be heard. It’s a struggle, but you’ll get there.

 As someone who is obsessed with lyrics, I really love how The Battery Farm are so open to sharing their thoughts and what they see. They are showing us their world, their reality and the thing is- it’s like a lot of ours. Their songs are relatable, and if the lyrics make you feel uncomfortable- then they are doing it right, they are getting through. Their passion and dedication is something to truly admire, and with just 2 songs they have left me in awe. I really cannot praise them highly enough. Not just for touching on delicate subjects, but for being unafraid in doing so and for creating such a beautiful, and heavy sound. Hopefully they will be a band that, in the future, others are citing as them as their influence. 

 Here are some of their upcoming shows:

8th November 2019 – The Peer Hat, Manchester for Abattoir Blues Records

21st November 2019 – Werkhaus, London

1st December 2019 – Fab Café (acoustic)

7th December 2019 – Eagle Inn, Salford

28th December 2019 – Sound, Liverpool

22nd February 2020 – The Peer Hat, Manchester for Deco Records

18th April 2020 – Ulltra Festival, Hull

I Am A Man is released on 24th October.

*Photo by Gemma Corry

 

JOHN: Out Here On The Fringes.

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JOHN

 

What’s got two heads, four arms and four legs? No, not some weird mythical creature but an exceptional duo called JOHN. Two pals, both called John. Drums and guitar. Rowdy and really exciting. What more do you need?

JOHN are a band we all need. A band we need to truly treasure. Their new record, Out Here On The Fringes came out on Friday. I’ve been playing it almost religiously since yesterday evening, and if I could fully explain why I’m in awe of this record in a way that makes sense, I would. Sadly, I can’t. So, you’re going to get a weird rant, again

The record consists of nine mind-blowing and deafening songs to just make you go apeshit to. It is a record that will stick with you because you become obsessed with the sheer heaviness and passion in this band and they have brought it to life once more on this record. It is a record that deserves to be heard and praised by all, those who have heard this record already know just how remarkable it is. We’ve seen this band grow and grow, and what they have created- what these two friends have created, is something beautiful. They have such a loud sound, you sort of expect there to be about five of them in the band, but these two know exactly what they are doing here. They’ve created a cult classic with Out Here On The Fringes.

 

 

I love how the songs feel like tormented souls trying to push out of the body. They’ve nailed that heavy industrial like sound that’s in bands I love, such as Pop.1280. There’s this effortlessly menacing sound on this record; sometimes bands try really hard to have a bruising sound, but for JOHN it just comes so naturally and that’s what makes you become obsessed with them. The vocals are so tough and snarly. You can hear the importance of every single word, and when you feel this you truly know you have found something to cling on to with bloody hands.

What makes this record so memorable? Well, as cliched as it sounds- everything. You want tight production? Got it. You want anthems? Got it. You want riffs that make you puke in your mouth because you get that hyped up from listening? Got it. Out Here On The Fringes has everything you could possibly want (and more) from an intense and heavy Rock record. There are essences of Punk on this record, of course. The Stoner Rock heaviness of drums and guitar make you feel like you’re in this insane world that you can only get to when you play songs like Solid State or Dog Walker. It is such a fucking strong record. It’s a record that just makes you want to kiss someone it’s that good!

The more I listen to this record, the more I notice about the record. Everything about this record is just an instant classic, you know? This could be one of those albums that the younger generation hear and think, “I’m going to do that.” It’s such a powerful record, and I really don’t think JOHN get how vital they are. Bands like JOHN, their buddies IDLES, and Heavy Lungs are SO important. They’re my holy trinity and have been for some time now. Each of them is just getting better and better. With this record, JOHN have created something to really wake you up. It’s the record you play when you just need to feel SOMETHING. The title track is one of the best songs I’ve heard this year, and musically it is an absolute beast too.

 

 

Out Here On The Fringes is one of the most exciting records you’ll hear all year. There is no way we can deny just how phenomenal JOHN are. They’ve got everything you could possibly want from a straight-up Rock record. The Punk attitude is infectious on this record, and with one listen you will be hooked. I have no idea how many times I have listened to this record today; I’ve been playing it on and off since 7am ish when I left the house.

My love for duos has fully be thrown into overdrive with this record. JOHN are just a joy to listen to, and the songs on this record need to be played really loud. Soak it all up and embrace your favourite duo.

TV CRIME: Metal Town.

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I have had a bunch of records I have wanted to write about, but just couldn’t bring myself to do so. I lost my best friend- my beloved Gran on the 23rd August. Since then, everything has seemed utterly pointless. I can’t make it through the day without crying or having a panic attack. I may write about music again soon, or I may not. I have no idea. Maybe I’ll use it as a distraction. I have no idea.  I’m attempting to push through it to write about a record I have been SO excited for; Metal Town by TV Crime.

TV Crime are fronted by one of the coolest human beings around- Shaun Hencher (he fronted VIRALS, and if you weren’t a fan of them- why the hell weren’t you?!) I’ve written about TV Crime a bunch of times, but I’m super excited to write about their debut full length record which has been released via the equally phenomenal Alien Snatch! Records (fun fact: they have never released a bad record!)

Metal Town is a record that you cannot help but play insanely loud. It’s got a strong 70s Rock feel to it, but there’s also this Garage Rock feel. I know a lot of bands fall into this category, and they don’t back it up. But with TV Crime, they make you feel like you’re truly watching this band rehearse in a garage or sweaty basement room, playing with all they have. The record doesn’t sound polished in an overbearing way. It sounds like a band who are sure of themselves, and have created something that they (understandably) are proud of.

 

 

As a huge fan of theirs, I am so proud of what they have created on this record. Take songs like Can’t Remember Your Name and Neo Waltz- they really have this 70s Rock feel that bands like Amyl and The Sniffers have given us. The two bands are responsible for some of the best music around, and have been for the past few years.

TV Crime aren’t afraid to absolutely push themselves on this record. If you want to compare them to Shaun’s old band VIRALS, then that’s on you. But just so you know, they sound nothing alike. Shaun’s vocals on this record are so strong, and there’s this beautiful roughness to it that just makes you want to try snarl out the words like him. Luke absolutely destroys the drums with no hint of an apology found- just how it should be. This is prominent on songs like Clocking Out and In The Gutter. The title track of the record though, shows us just how brilliant this band are. It’s under the 2 minute mark but don’t let that deter you. In that short time, TV Crime show you that they aren’t to be messed with. TV Crime are the kind of band that make you want to ditch everything, and just follow them on tour.

Something to just adore about this record is that the 13 songs take you on this voyage through the wonder of music. They have evidently put their all into this record, and every single song on this record justifies why this is one of the most incredible debut records I’ve heard in a long time. I knew that I was going to be blown away by this record, but the level of greatness on it is truly something else. At the moment, I think I am calling Television Crime and Never Been In Love  as my favourite songs on the record, but I’m likely to change my mind because a record this great doesn’t happen that often you know. I love how it just embodies everything I love about music, and it has this unfiltered Rock ‘n’ Roll sound. It’s an honest record with a Punk heart, and for me that’s more than enough to make me fall in love with it.

 

 

TV Crime are headed out on a tour of Europe in the next few weeks, so please go see them if you can. Hopefully they’ll make their way to Manchester soon. Until then, I’ll keep playing this record as loud as I can and as often as I can.

Metal Town is released officially tomorrow via Alien Snatch! Records.

HAXON.

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HAXON

 

 

When I left London early last year, I know I was going to miss something in particular. I wasn’t going to miss the city at all, but I was going to miss my favourite venue ever- The Shacklewell Arms. I’ve seen some of the best gigs of my life there. I’ve seen TwoFiftyFour play to about 10 of us for an acoustic show, I’ve seen L.A Witch and Tall Juan’s first ever UK shows there. But I’ve missed out. I’ve missed out on seeing a whole bunch of bands, and I’m going to write about one of the most exciting London based bands around (aside from GHUM who are playing The Shack tonight, but I’m seeing them on Monday so it’s alright!) HAXON. Remember the name. HAXON make music to terrify you. Ready?

HAXON have members of bands I LOVE (Lovers Club and Night Shades.) If you’re looking for the coolest band around, then look no further than HAXON. They played The Shack last night, which is a venue made for bands like this. They sound like The Cramps mixed with Screaming Lord Sutch and The Birthday Party. Basically, fucking weird and absolutely off the wall in the best way imaginable. The kind of music you’d hear in a Vincent Price film. Perfect. They are a band that just need to be played really loud so you terrify your neighbours, In my apartment block, we’ve got some really annoying neighbours so for me, HAXON are the ideal band to use to drown out their noise.

 

 

If you’re looking for a band to blow you away and to leave you covered in goose bumps, and I don’t mean goose bumps just for the reason of them being brilliant. I mean for them scaring you- then you need HAXON in your life. You need to just play them, and go crazy to the songs. The songs sound like a mad-man rambling, and I love that. I love how possessed Alec’s vocals are. He’s easily one of my favourite singers of late, and with HAXON he really pushes his vocals and gives us something that is so insane and powerful. The songs will make you move in all kinds of ways. It’s just perfect.

 

Their debut EP, Haxoff, came out in May. It consists of 5 songs that will leave you salivating for more, and more. If you have seen them live, then I can only assume that it was one of the best shows you’ve ever been to. However, if anyone would like to bring them up here to Manchester- I’d really appreciate that! The EP is nothing short of stunning. It sounds like nothing else, and I truly mean that. I know I mentioned The Cramps, The Birthday Party and Screaming Lord Sutch earlier, but this EP is truly something else.  There is something about it that will freak you out, but at the same time you’ll just be beautifully overwhelmed by what you are hearing. Sometimes I’ll hear a band, and think “this is why I still write about music, this is why I love music.” For me, I can happily add Haxon to that list. With just one EP they have definitely left their mark, and I do hope that there is a lot more to come from them because 5 songs just isn’t enough.

I’m A Tree is like a drunken rambling, and I absolutely love it. I love how manic and ferocious it is. I love how it twists and turns, then slides into Lucky John which has the same tone to it. It’s just an excellent EP that will make you want to make your own noise, it’ll make you want to down a bottle of Bourbon in a saloon bar and cause a fight. It’s got this infectious rage to it, that I just cannot get enough of. It’s everything I want from music, and more. They should be hugely proud of what they have created here, because it is out of this world.

 

 

It’s a real sleazy and seductive EP that’ll make you feel a bit dirty and in the need of a shower after listening- and that’s always a great thing. Honestly, if you get the chance to see them, please go. Let the music take you over, let it freak you the hell out and let it put everything you’ve ever known to shame.

 

SHEER MAG.

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SHEERMAG

 

 

I should have written about Sheer Mag ages ago, but that’s just how it goes. They have a new record coming out next month, and are touring the UK in November (they’re playing YES in Manchester, which is the coolest venue in the city and it’s a week before my birthday!) so now is the right time. Better late than never, I guess.

Fronted by the incredible Tina (Christina) Halladay, Sheer Mag are THE Punk band that we all need. They have this brilliant attitude and force within their music which is like Amyl and The Sniffers mixed with KRAUT. Which is obviously a great thing, as I love both bands. They are loud in all the right places, and will just fill you with utter joy when you listen to them. The music is so powerful, and full of this ferocious energy that you just cannot get enough of. I can’t pick what it is I love so much about Sheer Mag, but I’m pretty sure that when the new record comes out, my love will be reinforced all over again. I can’t wait to hear it.

Sheer Mag make you want to just throw your limbs around in a way that would leave others wondering if you’re alright, but they just move you in so many ways. The songs will make you cry, shout and just be glad that someone out there gets you. We all need that, and Sheer Mag release it all. They make it seem so effortless.

 

 

The rhythm that Sheer Mag has is so soulful, and so poignant. They make you feel their music right from the soul, and I think that’s part of why we need bands like this. They aren’t afraid to be loud, and Tina isn’t afraid to pour her heart out in the songs, and leave it beating on stage. The vulnerability and the passion they have is so beautiful, and such a rare thing to see. But when a band you love show this, you cannot help but connect with them in ways you never thought you could.

They make the kind of songs that you just have to scream along- whether you’re at their show, or just hanging out at home. They bring it out of you, and their new song Blood From A Stone gives you that feeling and it’s the kind of feeling that you cannot help but cling on to. You have to. They sum up the heightened feelings we are sometimes wary of. There’s something about Sheer Mag that you cannot do without. They make you feel like you’ve gone back to the 70s but at the same time, take you deep into the future/to a place that is unknown to others. The trip they take on you on with their music is the kind of trip you don’t want to end, you just want to stay in the moments that they create, and I am pretty sure that their new record is going to do the same.

I’m super excited to see them live, and to really immerse myself in all that their music gives me. I can’t wait to see how their songs are performed live, and to see it all take on a different meaning. On record they give you this energy that spurs you on, and I’m confident that their live shows do the same.

There is so much soul in the songs, and I think it really comes across in songs like Pure Desire. The guitar has this slick tone, and Tina’s vocals have this Gospel like feeling to it. They are truly unlike anything else you’ll ever hear. Just Can’t Get Enough also has this raw and soulful feel to it. They’ve got something that you won’t find anywhere else. They need to take over the world or something, because bands like this cannot be ignored. Until You Find The One will break your heart in such a gorgeous way, and I think it is their most delicate song. It reminds me slightly of The Ronnettes, which is always a good thing. They’ll toy with your feelings, but one thing for sure is that you’ll keep coming back for more.

 

 

Like I said, I should have written this years ago but the excitement for their new record is building, and I cannot wait to hear it. We need bands/music that is fearless and makes you feel something, anything at all- Sheer Mag go above all this. They have such a distinctive sound that would make even the most reserved person move.

So there you have it, delayed appreciation for a band I should have written about ages ago. Hopefully this makes up for lost time.

TABLE SCRAPS. The Castle, Manchester. 04/10/2018

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Whilst living in London, I missed many chances to see a band I quite frankly adore, and am obsessed with. My missed chances came down to clashes with other plans, public transport being a shithead and my own misgivings- panic attacks. The thought of potentially going out on my own would more often than not cause me to feel like I was, to put it heavily but honestly- dying. I still get that feeling. This week I’ve noticed it happening, but I’m not beating myself up over it. I left a city that was pretty much killing me in all ways possible, and now I’m finally settled in a place I should have been in many years ago. Why is this relevant? It probably isn’t. I’ve been up since 5am. I’ve done my washing, ironed (I know!!) some clothes and to my disgust, drank coffee because I wanted to see if it would help me stay awake. I’m now at work. I start at 8, I’ve got 15 minutes to tell you about why last night’s show was brilliant. Please note: the coffee hasn’t helped at all and I really want to take a nap.

Table Scraps are quite frankly one of the best bands you will ever see. I’m not exaggerating with this one. You want riffs that melt your face? Got it. You want vocals that beautifully burst your eardrums? Got it. You want the bass to sail through you and make you move in ways you didn’t know you could? Best believe you’ve got it. Oh, and you want the drums to sound like some higher being is in the room? Got it, and then some. Table Scraps are three musicians who, in my eyes (and ears) are HUGELY underrated. On record, it is obvious how amazing they are. But when you see them live, it’s totally different. The Castle is a tiny venue. It’s a pub with a small back room, which is basically a sauna. Last night was a sweatfest, and I don’t think it could have been better any other way. Scott is EASILY one of the best guitarists around. In fact, he’s most certainly up there with being one of the best I’ve ever seen. He makes his guitar sound like a machine gun being wielded by a maniac. This is purely down to the way he thrashes his guitar about and gives you this face-melting solos when you least expect it.

Let’s talk about Poppy and her being probably the best drummer you’ll see. There’s a couple of drummers I love hearing, and seeing them play live. I’ve got my list on my mind, and I’ve pushed Poppy to the top because I honestly don’t think I’ll ever witness anything or anyone as great as her again. I know fuck all about playing music, I just love music as a fan and write as one. I don’t know what the technical terms are or whatever, but let’s just go with Poppy being the best drummer around- and most definitely in this country. Again, she treats her drums as a weapon. Every beat is felt in your chest, and you move to the perfect timings. Then we move on to Tim. The tallest bass player I ever did meet. The bassist is the backbone of a band, but with Table Scraps that doesn’t occur. They are all the backbone of the band. I love the way Tim guides and glides us through the songs. He isn’t as manic as Scott is, but don’t let his cool, calm stance fool you. He’s got this subtle way of making you pay close attention to what he is doing. And what is he doing? Making you witness that the bass can be equally as aggressive as the drums and guitar.

Table Scraps annihilate the stage at The Castle, and blow our minds. My personal favourite was I’m A Failure. It’s my favourite song by them, and I was super happy to see it live. This is only the second time they have played Manchester and I sincerely hope it isn’t the last. Just give them a residency at The Castle or Soup Kitchen. But to be honest, they are a band that could easily play a huge arena and win people over. There is something about them, and I rarely say this because I love small venues, but there is something about Table Scraps that makes you want to see them play a huge stadium. Their sound is massive, and it is meant to be heard by us all. I honestly don’t see why they couldn’t sell out a huge venue, and just rip us all to shreds with their brutal sound. I hope one day they get there, because they truly deserve it.

The set ends with the excellent, Motorcycle (Straight To Hell) which sees Scott launch himself into the crowd for a few seconds, and the end of this song is greeted with Scott, Poppy and Tim just going absolutely nuts on stage. It was the perfect ending to one of the best shows I’ve ever been to.

If you ever get the chance to see them, GO. You’ll probably be a bit deaf the morning after but it’s worth it. They are truly one of the most talented, coolest, greatest and best bands around.

Oh, and one last thing- they’ve got a tape out on Burger Records. Do you know how big a deal that is?! HUGE.