I'm not sure if you're a fan of listening to your favourite tunes while your driving around in your car? I have to say it's clearly a great way to test to how good a tune is, if you haven't tried it and I can't believe anyone out there hasn't, then my god get out of the box you've been living in and go do it now!!!
Now to make it into my CD collection you have to make some great music. For example there's no Beady Eye or Mumford and Sons getting any air time in my car. You're more likely to hear some Rolling Stones, Smashing Pumpkins or Hendrix as I drive by (at the permitted speed limit of course. I'm not a maniac).. But let me bring an unsigned gem that has made it into my collection. The Holy Coves, now these chaps make driving better than its ever been. I suggest you get this album on CD slap it in the car and go for a drive. The opening bars of the first song really sum up the ride you're in for. It's just a massive sound that drives with elegant guitar riffs that blend with the huge drum and bass sound. The vocals stand out with a passion that tells you that each lyric has been lived, rather than plucked out of some make believe bullshit that's been manufactured to fit the song!
The album is just like the band, no nonsense just a straight to the point attitude that will keep you in their pocket until the last track plays out. For me there are some stand out tracks here in Peruvian Mistake, Whats Happened To You Has Happened To Me and Euthanasia. My favourite of all being Euthanasia, that track just gets totally wedged in my head and replays itself over and over its genius! take note that word will not be used often in the coming weeks. Even if you ignore my advice just listen to that song, and you won't be able to pass up the rest of the album.
All in all this album has had many plays in my car and will continue to do so. If you have an ounce of sense you will go here and listen to this band... http://holycoves.bandcamp.com/album/peruvian-mistake and remember to share and shout about it!!!
Monday 30 September 2013
Thursday 26 September 2013
Our First Guest Writer - @SirMop26
I've been fortunate enough to have witnessed the evolution of The Unassisted
from the very early days of the band. At the time I was relatively new to
Twitter and entirely new to the world of emerging artists. I happened to mention
to a band that I enjoyed a song I'd recently played of theirs. They replied with
the customary, 'Thanks for listening, glad you're enjoying our stuff'. But, they
added something more in a follow-up tweet. 'Have a listen to The Unaassisted.'
I was in a musical transition point. I'd grown tired of the artists that had
entertained me for years. Though music had always occupied my day from start to
end, its' influence was beginning to wane. So it was without hesitation that I
searched for this new band on SoundCloud. "Hands Dance Hands". I was completely
blown away. Hidden away from the world, here was this track with really just a
handful of plays and this band with just a handful of followers. It was unlike
anything I had listened to recently. Why weren't others taking notice?
https://soundcloud.com/unassisted/hands-dance-hands
I had no clue that there was such a thing as music supporters. I had not heard
of the concept before. I tweeted The Unassisted and let them know how much I
enjoyed the track. The response is still etched in my brain. After that
customary thanks, they continued to say '...means a lot. To be honest, we didn't
think anyone would listen.'
Crazy! Listening still to the track I wondered if they had ever even heard their
own material. Because from my perspective, I was listening to something amazing.
I decided to let others know. Though I had just a few followers at the time, I
haphazardly made my first #nowplaying tweet. I couldn't keep this tune to
myself.
Since then, I've watched the band evolve. They have gained a loyal following. It
seems that all who take the time to listen are instantly drawn in as I was. I
have listened to tracks take shape from an idea to an elaborated work. I have
indulged in recordings of live gigs. I've remained in contact with the band.
They still remain every bit as humble, even with their growing audience. And
from that first motivation to support a band that came about from Hands Dance
Hands, I've grown to actively support many other artists. Thinking back now it
is really rather interesting that Jason of The Unassisted now advocates for
artists to support and promote other bands rather than focusing on self
promotion. Indeed, it was this ideal that first led me to The Unassisted. I
can't recall the band that first pointed me in their direction, but I owe them
many thanks.
from the very early days of the band. At the time I was relatively new to
Twitter and entirely new to the world of emerging artists. I happened to mention
to a band that I enjoyed a song I'd recently played of theirs. They replied with
the customary, 'Thanks for listening, glad you're enjoying our stuff'. But, they
added something more in a follow-up tweet. 'Have a listen to The Unaassisted.'
I was in a musical transition point. I'd grown tired of the artists that had
entertained me for years. Though music had always occupied my day from start to
end, its' influence was beginning to wane. So it was without hesitation that I
searched for this new band on SoundCloud. "Hands Dance Hands". I was completely
blown away. Hidden away from the world, here was this track with really just a
handful of plays and this band with just a handful of followers. It was unlike
anything I had listened to recently. Why weren't others taking notice?
https://soundcloud.com/unassisted/hands-dance-hands
I had no clue that there was such a thing as music supporters. I had not heard
of the concept before. I tweeted The Unassisted and let them know how much I
enjoyed the track. The response is still etched in my brain. After that
customary thanks, they continued to say '...means a lot. To be honest, we didn't
think anyone would listen.'
Crazy! Listening still to the track I wondered if they had ever even heard their
own material. Because from my perspective, I was listening to something amazing.
I decided to let others know. Though I had just a few followers at the time, I
haphazardly made my first #nowplaying tweet. I couldn't keep this tune to
myself.
Since then, I've watched the band evolve. They have gained a loyal following. It
seems that all who take the time to listen are instantly drawn in as I was. I
have listened to tracks take shape from an idea to an elaborated work. I have
indulged in recordings of live gigs. I've remained in contact with the band.
They still remain every bit as humble, even with their growing audience. And
from that first motivation to support a band that came about from Hands Dance
Hands, I've grown to actively support many other artists. Thinking back now it
is really rather interesting that Jason of The Unassisted now advocates for
artists to support and promote other bands rather than focusing on self
promotion. Indeed, it was this ideal that first led me to The Unassisted. I
can't recall the band that first pointed me in their direction, but I owe them
many thanks.
Wednesday 25 September 2013
Second Biggest Pen In The World
I remember getting my first guitar, I must have been about 6 years old. I recall the first couple of lessons being a right pain in the ass. Pluck this string 4 times and then the next and do this until you use the right fingers in the right order!!!! Wow what a ball ache.. Eventually I started getting really good at it, it became less of a chore and more of a treat. That feeling of music being a treat has always stuck with me. Whenever I pick up a guitar or even sit down at the drums, if I don't get that feeling I immediately switch off and move on to something else. The same applies to hearing a new song, I can generally tell if I like it in the first 5 seconds, more often than not I don't and I move on in disappointment. This leads me onto the next band that I'm about to tell you about, they easily got me in the first few seconds and I'm now hooked.
Second Biggest Pen In The World (SBPITW)
What stands out with these guys is the crazy lyrics and catchy music. I don't think I've ever heard such madness as I found in "Badger Tie", it's so much fun you'll listen to it over and over. SBPITW will put a smile on your face with every song. If it's the lyrics or the catchy licks you'll be smiling, and if not, you sir are dead inside. It's very rare in this saturated market to come across such a talented wordsmith as Jimi Eggleton. Each song tells a story, listen to "Peaches" as an example of exceptional lyrical madness. I can guarantee you will want to listen again.
If you don't believe me watch this video - http://youtu.be/5P8wadM3B8k
One thing these guys do so well is to keep it simple and when bands do this you see how much of an impact this can have. You let the song become the entity it should be, rather than overworking elements that can take a lot away from what you're trying to get across. I think SBPITW do this with such aplomb that you can find yourself totally lost in the song. Take "Until I'm Found" and "Marina and Me" as examples. both beautifully simple yet devilishly clever and enticing.
go check these guys out and follow, share and shout about them to everyone :)
https://soundcloud.com/secondbiggestpen
Second Biggest Pen In The World (SBPITW)
What stands out with these guys is the crazy lyrics and catchy music. I don't think I've ever heard such madness as I found in "Badger Tie", it's so much fun you'll listen to it over and over. SBPITW will put a smile on your face with every song. If it's the lyrics or the catchy licks you'll be smiling, and if not, you sir are dead inside. It's very rare in this saturated market to come across such a talented wordsmith as Jimi Eggleton. Each song tells a story, listen to "Peaches" as an example of exceptional lyrical madness. I can guarantee you will want to listen again.
If you don't believe me watch this video - http://youtu.be/5P8wadM3B8k
One thing these guys do so well is to keep it simple and when bands do this you see how much of an impact this can have. You let the song become the entity it should be, rather than overworking elements that can take a lot away from what you're trying to get across. I think SBPITW do this with such aplomb that you can find yourself totally lost in the song. Take "Until I'm Found" and "Marina and Me" as examples. both beautifully simple yet devilishly clever and enticing.
go check these guys out and follow, share and shout about them to everyone :)
https://soundcloud.com/secondbiggestpen
Tuesday 24 September 2013
Streaming StreamlineUk
I think when I'm older and the kids have moved out I might start my own Label. I say this because I see so many talented bands that either have no resources to shout about themselves, or just need a helping hand down the right path. I'm not saying I will be the saviour for these unfortunate souls. But, I do feel I'd do my up most to help out in anyway I could. Maybe suggest a chord change or add a sweet hook here and there :) It would be a great way to spend the day. Having said that I'd imagine there's some genuine souls out there on the same quest as I :)
You may have listened to my music past and present and decided you don't like it. The mere notion of my help may turn your stomach. However, we all need a helping hand sometimes. So here's my helping hand whether you like it or not, just go with it and enjoy the ride.
Helping Hand
Sometimes you see some injustice in the world, I found some going on on Soundcloud when I checked in on Streamlines page and saw the small amount of plays they are getting... I clicked the first tune and had a nice little riff greet me with some dark accompanying harmonies... only to be met with an energetic kick in the face into the track!!! thinking why the fuck am I the only one listening to this it's brilliant... I then clicked share and hoped that some of my twitter followers would click and join in (hopefully they will) one thing I love about this band is the guitar work, the solo in the first track is totally out there, it goes against the brain dead solo's that most guitarists invoke in that moment of glory (myself included sometimes) it totally stands out and you almost think nah thats not working and you realise it is, very clever indeed...
https://twitter.com/StreamlineUK_
As you go through the tracks its a great journey full of energy and you get a chilled out rest in Avenue Way, then straight into Can You Hear Me Now. Seriously you gotta listen :)
https://soundcloud.com/streamlinegrimsby
Overall this band offer great music, catchy tunes and in the words of @sophiefe "who doesn't like catchy tunes"
Go and listen to this you won't be disappointed...... Then go and shout about it and tell everyone you know!!!
One more thing... go check em out live it's a right treat...
You may have listened to my music past and present and decided you don't like it. The mere notion of my help may turn your stomach. However, we all need a helping hand sometimes. So here's my helping hand whether you like it or not, just go with it and enjoy the ride.
Helping Hand
Sometimes you see some injustice in the world, I found some going on on Soundcloud when I checked in on Streamlines page and saw the small amount of plays they are getting... I clicked the first tune and had a nice little riff greet me with some dark accompanying harmonies... only to be met with an energetic kick in the face into the track!!! thinking why the fuck am I the only one listening to this it's brilliant... I then clicked share and hoped that some of my twitter followers would click and join in (hopefully they will) one thing I love about this band is the guitar work, the solo in the first track is totally out there, it goes against the brain dead solo's that most guitarists invoke in that moment of glory (myself included sometimes) it totally stands out and you almost think nah thats not working and you realise it is, very clever indeed...
https://twitter.com/StreamlineUK_
As you go through the tracks its a great journey full of energy and you get a chilled out rest in Avenue Way, then straight into Can You Hear Me Now. Seriously you gotta listen :)
https://soundcloud.com/streamlinegrimsby
Overall this band offer great music, catchy tunes and in the words of @sophiefe "who doesn't like catchy tunes"
Go and listen to this you won't be disappointed...... Then go and shout about it and tell everyone you know!!!
One more thing... go check em out live it's a right treat...
Monday 23 September 2013
We're all in this together
This blog has been written by Guitarist - Jason
One thing I've noticed during my time as a part time musician, is the constant self promotion that most bands (not all) believe will get them the recognition they deserve (or feel they deserve). There's nothing better than getting together and creating a song or two, and getting caught up in the haze of self belief that you are soon to become the next big thing :) Well I can assure you are not alone. This is generally the mentality of most bands, I've been in this situation before and I'm not sure whether mellowing with age has changed me, but I do feel that its important to acknowledge your peers and do your best to give them the recognition they deserve. So on that note, I have decided to start a blog based on my favourite bands that I may have had the pleasure of gigging with, or simply stumbling over them whilst aimlessly trawling the deep dark depths of soundcloud.
Lets begin -
Out of all the gigs we've done so far this year we enjoyed the following bunch of chaps very much indeed.
The Forgotten Saints hail from the Northwest of england, and have a really atmospheric sound that you can easily get lost in. I found myself daydreaming of days gone by during their set, the sound and tone of the vocals almost gives you no other option that to drift into a haze of memories. It's not often you find a band that can instigate such emotion through theirs songs. I defy anyone to go onto soundcloud and not get lost in the tracks they have uploaded.
I would happily recommend anybody to go and see these chaps live. You won't find yourself in a mosh pit or jumping around like a loon .but you will experience a great journey with lush sounds and great lyrics.
don't believe me go have a listen - https://soundcloud.com/theforgottensaints
oh and go follow them on twitter @theforgottensai
One thing I've noticed during my time as a part time musician, is the constant self promotion that most bands (not all) believe will get them the recognition they deserve (or feel they deserve). There's nothing better than getting together and creating a song or two, and getting caught up in the haze of self belief that you are soon to become the next big thing :) Well I can assure you are not alone. This is generally the mentality of most bands, I've been in this situation before and I'm not sure whether mellowing with age has changed me, but I do feel that its important to acknowledge your peers and do your best to give them the recognition they deserve. So on that note, I have decided to start a blog based on my favourite bands that I may have had the pleasure of gigging with, or simply stumbling over them whilst aimlessly trawling the deep dark depths of soundcloud.
Lets begin -
Out of all the gigs we've done so far this year we enjoyed the following bunch of chaps very much indeed.
The Forgotten Saints hail from the Northwest of england, and have a really atmospheric sound that you can easily get lost in. I found myself daydreaming of days gone by during their set, the sound and tone of the vocals almost gives you no other option that to drift into a haze of memories. It's not often you find a band that can instigate such emotion through theirs songs. I defy anyone to go onto soundcloud and not get lost in the tracks they have uploaded.
I would happily recommend anybody to go and see these chaps live. You won't find yourself in a mosh pit or jumping around like a loon .but you will experience a great journey with lush sounds and great lyrics.
don't believe me go have a listen - https://soundcloud.com/theforgottensaints
oh and go follow them on twitter @theforgottensai
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)