Song of the Week!

Song of the Week: "Rat Race" by Skindred

"There's always free cheese inside a rat trap"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-kmLkfFrtU

I'm not sure where to begin with this song. It's like a mix of metal, and reggae. And the band are from Wales. Now that I was not expecting. Wales?! This came from Wales?! Anyway, it's a brilliant mixture of sounds that on paper doesn't sound like it should work. This song does come with a warning though: it probably isn't for everyone. But if you're a metal/alternative rock/punk rock fan then I suggest giving it a go. It's brilliant to walk to, which is of course all anyone's looking for in a song these days. I hope you guys like it as much as I do! They're playing the main stage at Reading + Leeds these year too so if you like them then check them out. 

I'm going to see The Boomtown Rats at the Roundhouse in October. That's not something I ever thought I'd say... See ya soon Bob.

SONG OF THE WEEK!

Song of the Week: "Born Slippy" by Underworld.

"Drive boy, dog boy, dirty numb angel boy"

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

For those of you who have seen Trainspotting (if not then get on it) this will be a familiar song. It is of course the song that plays when Renton steals the money from Begbie, and continues up until the end of the film. I don't know whether this is the reason why I like this song so much; I mean it's such a brilliant moment in the film! And the song really amps up the tension. It also might be the reason why this song makes me feel like the world if my oyster, because it plays when Renton is walking off into the world with a smile on his face and a fuck load of money on his back. Whatever it is this song makes me feel powerful and happy. And that can only be a good thing. I've put a link below to the clip from final scene from Trainspotting for anyone who hasn't seen it. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9ZNKGrpnKM

New Music Yah! (Cheers Company).

So I can't take any credit for finding these artists (that accolade goes to Alexxsia Elizabeth and July's Company), but we'll just push that to one side and pretend that I did some youtube browsing. Makes me sound all cool like that way. Right? Sure.

First up is Swiss Lips, a bunch of lads from Manchester (according to their facebook) who have got a bit of an electro, dancey feel to them. Wouldn't go amiss in Underworld. Worth listening to if you like Friendly Fires and Bastille. They've got me swaying anyway, which is pretty impressive considering I'm cosied up in bed in my pj's. I'm on my second listen and it's already winging it's way to my party playlist.
"U Got the Power": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDdWm7mmhaA

Next up is Misty Miller, a 19 year old lady from South London, which is nice. On her Facebook she says she's inspired by the likes of The Velvet Underground, Patti Smith, and the 90s (who isn't inspired by the 90s?!). Company recommend her if you're a fan of Noah and the Whale and/or Laura Marling. I think she's pretty cool, and her song Remember makes me long for the summer that we're meant to have, not the continuation of winter that we currently have. 
"Remember": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEUcQHuM6vE

And that just about sums it all up! Tomorrow will bring my record of the week (can I hear a woop woop?) and it's a throw back to the 90s (1995 to be exact), to go with the 90s nostalgia that I've been feeling recently. I blame What a Load of Buzzcocks for that, which I would thoroughly recommend checking out if you haven't already. 

Biffy Clyro and Imagine Dragons.

Biffy have just released a video of their performance of "Black Chandelier" at London's O2 (link below). Oh my. It's just as good as I remember it being; I had forgotten how awesome the fucking set was though! The whole gig was fantastic. I thoroughly recommend watching the video, whether you were at the gig or not. I'm hoping that this might mean that a DVD of the O2 gig will be released... Lord I hope so. Ahhh I feel all excited! Roll on Reading!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ix5GXPuwkSc

Just a quick note about Imagine Dragons: For those of you who don't know tickets for Imagine Dragons Night Visions UK tour are going on sale tomorrow morning at 9am. They're playing in London, Birmingham, Nottingham, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, Swindon, and Bournemouth and the dates go from 14th to 25th November. Unfortunately I won't be buying any tickets (wah wah wah) but I hope you guys manage to get some!

Video première for Opposite.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/musicblog/2013/may/15/biffy-clyro-opposite

Above is a link to the video for Biffy's new single Opposite. I've already said what I think about the single (amazing, obviously), and the video's pretty cool. It shows clips of Simon wandering by the side of the road and a car crash happening in reverse. I liked the references to the album artwork (the tree bending and the shards of glass), and while I do like the video I prefer the one for Biblical. Oh and for those who were annoyed that Ben and James were only shown for a brief part of the Biblical video they do have a bigger part to play in this one. Not a massively bigger one but y'know, can't have everything. 

New week, new singles.

I'm lying, it isn't a new week, but there are plenty of new singles out! HUZZAH! I only want to talk about two of them though.

Firstly...

Biffy have released the following teaser trailer for their new single "Opposite": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8QwLeskpAs
Ah Biffy. You never disappoint. I'm so excited that this is their next single! It's such an achingly beautiful song. If you haven't heard it then WHY NOT?! I thoroughly recommend their new album. But seriously, if you haven't heard it then I've included a link for their performance of the song on Jools Holland: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLoqwH7ewyk.
Roll on 15th May! I've enjoyed the last two music videos that Biffy have made so I can't wait to see what they've done with the new one. I'm assuming it involves a car crash, but I could be wrong.

Secondly...

Franky T (that's Frank Turner for those not in the know) has a new single out! YAY! It's not my favourite song from his new album but any Frank Turner song is a good one in my opinion.

"The Way I Tend To Be": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cf5O2M5GaEA

The video's pretty cool too; It shows a guy walking through the countryside carrying a shovel, and seemingly for no reason starts to dig a hole. A fucking massive hole. No one can comprehend it and there's no explanation for why he does it. He stops as suddenly as he starts, and then walks off. All in all I quite like it.

Think that's all I wanted to share with you guys in terms of important singles. Enjoy!

Save Rock And Roll.... I don't think so.

It pains me to say it but I don't think I'm going to bother buying Fall Out Boy's new album. I've just finished listening to it (finally) and I feel both confused and unenthused (poet in the making eh). It was just all a bit "Yeah, and?". Not meaning to be snarky, but I can't see them "saving" rock and roll with this. Sorry guys. Some of the songs were alright, and don't get me wrong I love My Songs Know What You Did In The Dark (who doesn't? Am I right??), but just alright isn't really what I'm after. Who knows, maybe some of the songs will grow on me. I mean I doubt it, but positive thoughts and all that. Still can't wait to see them at Reading though.

Song of the Week.

Song of the week: "Bound" by Indiana.

"This isn't love, it's dangerous".

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

I'm surprised by the fact that I actually really, really like this song! It's mysterious and moody, and Indiana's voice is gorgeous! Ethereal. That's the word I would use to sum up the song. It feels dangerous, weirdly, and I like the synthy beat that it has. And you know, she's pretty easy on the eye. The video ties in nicely with the song too. Very sexy and moody. I like, yes yes.

An Update.

Firstly: Frank Turner's new album (Tape Deck Heart) came out yesterday! HUZZAH!

On an email that he sent out to his subscribers he said the following:

"Days like today [Monday 22nd] always make me a little pensive... It's a big day for me, a momentous one, I guess, but it's almost a sense of ending that pervades - all the build, all the work, has been for today, and now the record is finally out and everyone can think whatever they want to think about it, listen to it, enjoy it, or not, as the case may be. I feel like I've put more of myself into this album than any previous ones, so part of me is worried about how it will be received. I also feel like the collaboration between me and the Sleeping Souls (and indeed Rick  Costey) was closer here than before, and that's a good feeling. I want to be punk and say I don't give a fuck about what anyone thinks, but there is part of me that's curious, and part of me that's nervous. I guess you can all let me know on this here internet, or at shows, as time goes by. In the final analysis, though, I know I did the best I could, so maybe I will be punk about it after all."

Of course I LOVE IT. And yes, it was necessary to put that in capitals. As always the songs are catchy and heart felt. There's a rawness to his lyrics that makes me wonder what troubles he's gone through in the past. It's something that I would like to ask him about if I am ever lucky enough to meet him again. I'm only on my second listen through of the album, but so far my favourite tracks are "Four Simple Words", "Plain Sailing Weather" and "Anymore". I cannot wait to see him at Reading! I can already see myself crying over "Anymore" and going mental over "Four Simple Words". Yes Frank, I want to dance! And dance I shall.

Secondly (and on a rather unrelated note) I have taken a rather large step into the 21st century. I am now a member of Spotify. Now don't get me wrong, I will still be buying physical copies of albums, but as with everyone else in England these days, I am skint. Pretty much constantly skint. I have a fuck load of albums that I would like to buy, but no money to buy them with (god damn it!). Due to this I'm going to have to be picky about which albums I buy. This is where Spotify comes it; I can listen to the albums before I buy them, and decide whether or not they're worth owning. It always sucks when you spend a tenner on an album and discover that it's shit. I'm rather excited about it actually. And without it I wouldn't be able to hear Franky T's new album.

So yes, go forth my beauties and purchase Tape Deck Heart!

Dan and Phil's Online Lounge!

For those of you who either don't listen to the radio or aren't Youtube fanatics Dan and Phil have started an Online Lounge on Radio 1. I haven't actually listened to the show yet (their regular slot is on Radio 1 on Sundays from 7-9pm) but the video of Walk Off The Earth (shown above)'s performance came up on my Youtube feed. Some of you may recognise them from their video depicting them all playing the same guitar whilst covering Gotye's "Somebody That I Used To Know". If you haven't already seen it the link's below. 

I must confess I haven't delved into their back catalogue but I did enjoy this Online Lounge. Their voices are beautiful, and strange instruments used included an electric toothbrush and a glass of water. Who knew an electric toothbrush could make an instrument eh.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCJ20Wrpp-s = "Natalie" for Dan and Phil on Radio 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9NF2edxy-M = Cover of "Somebody That I Used To Know"

The Cup Song.

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

Now I haven't seen Pitch Perfect (and I haven't decided whether or not I want to see it yet), but I have just been introduced to the cup song, via the beauty that is Carrie Fletcher. Carrie has posted a video on her youtube channel (It'sWayPastMyBedTime) which gives a tutorial on how to do the cup song. Currently I don't have a cup, but I'm envisioning spending a lonely evening practising until I have it perfect. It's pretty cool to see the music that can be made from such an ordinary object, and Carrie has a beautiful voice. Well worth a watch.
Side note: I am coveting Carrie's hair. And her quirky style. I may or may not be slightly besotted with her.

Saturday 20th April 2013

It's that time of year again - Record Store Day! For those of you who aren't aware this day rolls around every year (having started in America in 2007) and sees independent record stores come together to celebrate the art of music. As always this results in artists releasing all manner of promotional products in celebration; vinyl, CDs etc are all made exclusively for the day. Additionally hundreds of artists put in special appearances and performances. Sounds pretty good huh?

All details can be found at their website: http://www.recordstoreday.co.uk/ 

Participating artists include: Biffy Clyro, Bring me the Horizon, David Bowie, Dry the River, Frank Turner, Jake Bugg, Kodaline, Linkin Park, Peace, Pulp, The Cure, The Sex Pistols, Willy Mason and a fuck load more!

Paramore - "Still Into You"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjZsuCKI-Uw

Soooo Paramore have premiered their new single, and as of yet I don't like it. I'm sure it will probably grow on me, but I'm not very keen on the guitar rhythm, or the way Hayley sings the verses. Or the weird techno blips they've added in. It's not really what I'd expect from a band on their fourth album; it sounds like a new band who haven't found their sound yet. The lyric video for it's pretty cool though, so that's something.

But yes, let me know what you think. I really hope that it will grow on me.

Music video for "Beggars"

Mallory Knox have just released the video for their new single "Beggars", taken from their debut album "Signals" (which incidently is really rather good. I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who's a fan of Deaf Havana or LTA).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFBQQ3BY2Sg

The video's a bit strange but Mikey Chapman is wearing guy liner, and I have always been a fan of a man wearing guy liner. Psychologists can make of that what they will. I'm glad they've released it as a single - it was my favourite unreleased track on the album. Mainly I like the lyrics ("I can't find the way out of my mind, the devil has his claws too deep inside), and as always I enjoy Mikey's vocals.

For people who are new to Mallory Knox I recommend checking out Death Rattle (linked below). I first heard this track during the summer and I instantly fell in love with it. I think it has something to do with the jarring rhythm of the chorus. Either way I can't wait to see them at Reading!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSwJnD66rzI

Biblical music video.

http://stereogum.com/1280291/biffy-clyro-biblical-video-stereogum-premiere/video/

The site above contains a link for Biffy's video to their new single Biblical. The video shows Simon getting a phone call and going about his day in a pissed off fashion. Come the second verse the day has started again, but this time when Simon gets a call he goes about his day being helpful and pleasant to people (isn't that nice). The consequences of his day remain the same though. I think it probably relates to going back to the start and doing things over or watching them all fall apart ("Baby if you could would you go back to the start? Take any fresh steps or watch it all fall apart, again"). Also contrary to what is said in the above link, Ben and James can actually be seen in the video. James is sitting by the pool when Simon first walks past, and Ben is there the second time round.

Less than a month now until I go see them at the O2. Just so you're all aware :)

Biffy Clyro Live from Hoxton.

Last week Biffy played a live acoustic set for the Guardian (of all people). If like me you foolishly missed it going out live then there's a link to the video below, and the set list.

MON THE BIFF!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiF7WQp18YQ

Set list: 

• Black Chandelier
• The Rain
• Opposite
• Stingin' Belle

Caught As Heroes.

So it's been a while (apologies for that), but I've been feeling rather meh of late. That's the best word I can come up with to sum up my mood over the last few months. Meh. I think it's pretty accurate. But hey, maybe this will become a regular thang again. Who knows eh.

Anyway, my friend's brother's band have put a song up on youtube, and it's pretty good. And I'm not just saying that because I know one of the band members. So yes, worth a listen, particularly if you're a Lower Than Atlantis fan.

That is all.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FyEG2Ac__E&feature=youtu.be