Category Archives: TVD UK

This week we have a debut release from Irish alt-pop duo PostLast! You may recognize the duo from their respective bands HAVVK and BARQ, both of whom we’ve previously championed here at TVD.

PostLast’s debut single “Connect 4” is an upbeat escape into the joy and fragility of making friends as a grown-up. “The song is about rediscovering your inner child through connection with others, and remembering how to switch off, play and dance with reckless abandon,” the band elaborate. Fans of the likes of St. Vincent, AE MAK, and Sorcha Richardson will feel at home here.

Julie Hough and Stephen McHale first connected while completing a joint headline tour of Ireland and the UK in 2017. Over the past year they have been writing in secret, preparing each element of their collaboration to be ready for public release in spring 2024.

“Connect 4” is in stores now.

Oxford’s Self Help have released their propellant, post-rock single, “Enrage Engage.” The five-piece create an expansive sound in the realms of Squid, KEG, and Idles, all packaged in their own unique style.

“Enrage Engage” is the lead single from the band’s debut album of the same name. Following on from previous single “Spaceman,” Self Help have ramped up the eccentricity a couple of notches as they direct their ire at the ills of the world.

Self Help wear their heart on their sleeve, sarcastically voicing their displeasure at the state of the modern world. “Enrage Engage” is packed full of fuzzy melodies, distinctive vocals and a maelstrom of in-your-face guitars.

Following a short, self-imposed, break from the playing music, Self Help returned in 2022. Their uncompromising sound led to a number of festival appearances and airplay on BBC 6 Music as well as support slots with the likes of Squid, Goat Girl, The Murder Capital, and Animal House.

Having recently supported Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard, and with further singles due for release, we here at The Vinyl District can’t wait to hear the record in its full, sardonic glory.

Debut album Enrage Engage is due in stores on 7th June 2024.

Entering the Eventim Apollo on a brisk Tuesday evening in London felt like stepping into a chapter of my personal soundtrack.

My first encounter with Mika’s music was a chance stumble upon “Grace Kelly” while living in San Francisco. As someone deeply appreciative of bands like Jellyfish, Queen, and Badfinger, Mika’s sound struck a chord with me—bold, inventive, and refreshingly unique. That track alone was a game-changer, and diving into his album was akin to discovering a pop music gem, brimming with disco, funk, and those falsettos and harmonies that instantly pull you in. It was as if the energy of the Scissor Sisters’ debut had been reborn.

Mika’s 2024 tour kicks off on the heels of a spectacular year. His French-language album not only snagged the “French-language Album of the Year” at the Pure Charts Awards, but he’s also made waves on television, earning critical acclaim for his roles on The Voice in France and The Piano in the UK—the latter winning Best Original Programme at the 2024 Broadcast Awards. His venture into film scoring also earned him a nomination for Breakthrough Composer of the Year by the International Film Music Critics Association, showcasing his remarkable versatility as an artist. To say he’s at the peak of his powers would be an understatement.

Seeing Mika live again was like reuniting with an old friend. His Apocalypse Calypso Tour might have featured just one song from his latest album Que ta tête fleurisse toujours, but it didn’t matter—the energy was through the roof. The crowd was pumped, eager for a night packed with Mika’s greatest hits. He delivered big time, diving into the songs that first hooked us, making sure the evening was filled with those signature Mika moments we all came for.

To fully grasp Mika’s unique artistry, you really had to be there. The show kicked off with an unforgettable spectacle—Mika, decked out in massive red wings and enclosed in a symbolic cage, delivering “Bougez.” His performance swung from beautiful to intense, capturing the full spectrum of human emotion. From that first song, it was full steam ahead. Mika was on a mission to energize every person in the crowd, keeping us grinning from ear to ear for the next two hours.

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Ever evolving alt-rock outfit HAVVK’s raucous new album To Fall Asleep is a grunge-filled musical endeavour, packing a powerful punch that leaves you pining for more. The highly anticipated album was released on the 15th March via Veta Records.

Made up of Julie Hawk (bass, vocals), Matthew Harris (guitar), and former Bitch Falcon drummer Nigel Kenny, HAVVK’s emphasis is on social issues in their art—from bodily autonomy to “filthy landlords.” These upcoming tracks were primarily recorded in Belfast’s Start Together Studio with producer Rocky O’Reilly (Wheatus, And So I Watch You From Afar).

This is an album about sleep, and the things that keep us awake at night. Talking about the album, Hawk says, “We started talking about sleep a lot as a band a few years ago when I was experiencing insomnia. I was waking up with an unshakable feeling of urgency, like I was forgetting something and then letting my thoughts spiral for hours. Sleep was something I had always taken for granted, so at first this felt like a huge betrayal from my body. But it wasn’t really. Actually, it was my body trying to tell me something. I had to really listen to it, and examine how honestly I was living my life, and how much energy I was giving to things that I didn’t have the capacity for.”

Single “You Say You Won’t” is all about toxic and self-sabotaging habits, and starts with the slow thrum of the bass guitar, building up to heavy drops made for headbanging. The chorus takes the song into a more hopeful sound, contrasted with the lyrics saying “you say you won’t, but you do it again,” which is all too relatable for us all.

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British singer-songwriter Sophie Faith has been making waves for a while now. She combines jazz, soul, and hints of hip hop infused sensibilities and we think it’s about time you sat up and took note.

Sophie’s latest single “Dopamine” is no exception as it oozes with smooth, sultry melodies and Sophie’s equally mesmerising vocals shine throughout. Sophie has amassed a dedicated following and millions of streams with her string of singles since 2017.

Previous collaborators include Erick The Architect, Flatbush Zombies, Reuben James, Coops, Linden Jay, Joe Beard, Fred Cox, Lophiile, Joe Hertz and more from around the world.

Sophie is currently on her “Hold My Drink” tour, which will be the title of her upcoming project. Get tickets whilst you can!

“Dopamine” is in stores now.

Alt-indie duo EEVAH showcase their true selves with vibrant new single “Heartbeat Is Missing.”

Taken from their upcoming EP “Simplify Life,” the single includes electrifying guitars and a persistently throbbing rhythm. For fans of the likes of Pale Waves and MUNA, “Heartbeat Is Missing” is oozing with raw ferocity and angst from the offset.

Talking about the single, frontwoman Nicole Smith says “It’s about pleasing people, changing yourself to fit in, and losing who you really are. Becoming desensitised to people’s apparent lack of boundaries or empathy, weaving together negative attention into a protective armour that keeps away the darkness but also blocks out the light, realising that then lashing out.”

EEVAH are made up of Nicole Smith and multi-instrumentalist producer and member of Embrace, Rick McNamara. The duo have built up a cult following performing hundreds of online shows to an ever growing community.

EEVAH’s upcoming EP “Simplify Life” is in stores on 23rd May 2024.

Tuesday night at the Troxy in London, Liam Gallagher and John Squire delivered a performance that could only be described as a serendipitous collision of rock ‘n’ roll giants. When the news of their collaboration first broke, skepticism and excitement swirled in equal measure. Gallagher’s unmistakable vocal presence, combined with Squire’s masterful guitar work, sounded too good to be true. Yet, there we were, witnessing a partnership that seemed destined by the rock gods themselves.

The crowd at the Troxy was a testament to the magnetic pull of Gallagher, a figure whose fans exhibit devotion that borders on the spiritual. The scene could easily be mistaken for a political rally, if not for the oceans of beer and the electrifying anticipation of music rather than rhetoric. The mood was intense, a heady mix of throwback vibes and the buzz for something novel, as the crowd geared up knowing they were about to witness something far from the ordinary.

What truly set the evening apart was the duo’s bold decision to eschew the expected Oasis and Stone Roses hits in favor of their new collaborative material. The gamble paid off spectacularly, with tracks like “Just Another Rainbow,” “I’m So Bored,” and “Mars to Liverpool” proving that this partnership was not just a novelty but a potent new force in music. Their cover of “Jumping Jack Flash” was a nod to their influences while firmly establishing their own identity. I was standing there in complete awe of how well it worked, Gallagher’s snarl over the psychedelic ’70s sonic landscapes from Squire; it really was something special, something I never thought I’d see.

The origins of this unique collaboration, as Gallagher revealed, were as unconventional as the show itself, beginning with a simple gift of Portuguese moccasins from Gallagher to Squire. This gesture, emblematic of their mutual respect and friendship, sparked a creative partnership that has since captivated the UK music scene. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary projects arise from the simplest acts of thoughtfulness and connection. Who would have thought that Gallagher was such a good gift-giver?

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Strap in and brace yourself for a metal odyssey that breaks the mold, where Dragonforce, Amaranthe, and Infected Rain come together in a lineup that’s a rarity in today’s landscape—a trio where no band is the weak link, each elevating the bar for what a metal tour can be. Gone are the days of filler acts; this tour is all killer, no filler, channelling the spirit of the late ’90s and early 2000s when lineups were so impeccably curated, you’d swear the stars had aligned.

Amaranthe, with their unparalleled trio of vocalists, elevates the metal scene into an electrifying spectacle. Elize Ryd’s enchanting melodies, Henrik Englund Wilhelmsson’s raw growls, and Nils Molin’s robust cleans interweave, creating a vibrant tapestry of sound that’s both aggressive and melodious. This vocal dynamism sets the stage for performances that blur the lines between genres, cementing their place in what some affectionately term “dance metal.”

Their latest endeavour, The Catalyst, is a testament to this evolution, showcasing a blend of razor-sharp precision and boundless energy. However, as someone who holds Helix as their favourite album, its absence from the setlist strikes a personal chord. Despite this, the overall brilliance of Amaranthe’s performance remains undiminished, offering a glimpse into a future where metal is not just heard but felt in all its multifaceted glory.

Dragonforce orchestrates a journey that’s a high-octane blend of nostalgia and spectacle, weaving an adrenaline-charged realm where power metal is sovereign, arcade games cast their luminous allure across the stage, and pop classics undergo a metamorphosis into power metal masterpieces. Their renditions of Taylor Swift’s “Wildest Dreams” and Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” exemplify their knack for blending the unexpected with sheer technical brilliance.

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This week’s AOTW comes from South East London. Lola Young has been making waves for a while now in the UK, despite only being 22 years old. Her latest release “Intrusive Thoughts” is a highly relatable, raw slice of songwriting that will hit you right in the feels.

Young’s upcoming album My Mind Wanders And Sometimes Leaves Completely is set for release on 26th May 2024. It represents the start of a new chapter for the rising newcomer.

Stepping into a new light of expression, Lola explores the depths of her creativity whilst consistently drawing her authentic South London edge through the project. She blends her passionate vocals with the emotions she is exploring with her casual wit and frankness, offering a genuine insightful experience for fans.

Lola is currently embarking on her North American tour at Vinyl in Atlanta, GA before going on to perform in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Tickets are available here.

“Intrusive Thoughts” is in stores now.

This week’s Artist of The Week is Marla Kether—a rising and thriving session bassist, DJ, and producer based in London.

Marla has previously worked with the likes of Yazmin Lacey, Loyle Carner, and Obongjayar, as well as working on a self-produced EP “All That We Have,” which was released last year. Most recently though, Marla has teamed up with another TVD favourite, Samantha Lindo, on new single and remix “Bloodline,” which is out now.

Inspired by the likes of Kaidi Tathum and Kokoroko, the remix is Marla’s first release since her debut EP. With the help of some wonderfully warm and rich horns played by Poppy Daniels and James Akers, Marla has switched up this soulful jazz piece into an immersive bed of grooves reminiscent of the broken beat scene of the late ‘90s, and sounds that encapsulate the essence of “London jazz.”

Marla explains what drew her to this rework: “The mix is so full-bodied and rich, and the track is beautiful. With my music, I’m used to working with different elements recorded separately, as with electronic music there isn’t much importance placed on instruments sounding like they were recorded live.”

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When Filter unleashed their first record nearly 30 years ago, it was like a sonic sledgehammer smashing through the music scene’s norms—unadulterated industrial metal at its purest. Yet, as they evolved, shredding the playbook for a sound that melds gut-punching riffs with a denser, more organic metal, their creative trajectory has only ascended.

Their London gig on Saturday was no mere concert; it was a tempest of sound, helmed by the indomitable Richard Patrick, whose genius has only intensified over the years. The Algorithm marks a zenith in their journey, marrying the ferocious energy of their early days with a sharp modern edge that cuts through today’s musical clutter.

Having seen Filter live a dozen times over the years, I can assert without a hint of hyperbole that now is the ultimate time to experience them. The setlist—a seamless blend of their immense catalogue with the blistering tracks from the new album—showcases a band at the peak of its powers.

Onstage, the atmosphere was electric, a visual spectacle of deep purples, blues, and enveloping smoke, making for a photographer’s nightmare but a fan’s dream. Patrick, in his signature Ray Bans, was a force of nature. His voice, commanding and potent, anchored the night, drawing us into a shared journey through Filter’s evolving soundscape.

The setlist was a masterful raid on Filter’s arsenal, zeroing in on the raw power of their first three albums while snatching some gems from soundtracks and their more underrated works. “Jurasitol” and “Trip Like I Do” detonated with epic force, while “You Walk Away” and “American Cliché” hit harder than ever, each riff a sledgehammer to the senses.

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Bristol favourites True Strays bring listeners an infectious blend of blues, rock, and Americana, and in April 2024 will be embarking on a full band UK tour.

Hailing from Bristol, England, True Strays inject a modern edge into classic blues-rock, delivering a sound that’s both timeless and contemporary. Their music channels the spirit of legendary acts like Muddy Waters and Fleetwood Mac, while infusing it with their own distinctive flair.

With a reputation for their captivating live shows, True Strays have been winning over audiences across the UK and beyond. Whether they’re playing in intimate venues or commanding festival stages, their performances are always electrifying and bound to get your feet tapping and your heart racing.

Made up of lifelong friends Joseph James and James Cameron, True Strays are not just a band; they’re a force to be reckoned with in the world of blues and rock music. Keep an eye on them as they continue to make waves and redefine the sound of modern blues-rock. See for yourself on their UK tour—tickets here.

J. Bernardt, aka Jinte Deprez, gears up to unveil his second studio album Contigo, set for release on May 17, 2024, via Play It Again Sam.

With the anticipation building, J. Bernardt treats fans to a sneak peek of his upcoming work with the new single “Taxi,” featuring the bonus track “Matter Of Time.” Known for his diverse skillset as a classically-trained violinist, songwriter, instrumentalist, arranger, producer, engineer, and programmer, Deprez brings a wealth of talent to his music. He’s had a hand in producing several Balthazar albums and his debut solo album, released in 2016, was entirely self-produced.

J. Bernardt’s influence extends beyond his solo endeavors; he’s best known as one half of Balthazar, a cornerstone of Belgium’s alternative rock scene for over two decades. Together, they’ve graced prestigious stages worldwide, including All Points East, British Summer Time, and Electric Ballroom, amassing a dedicated fanbase and selling over 600,000 albums globally.

Bristol based artist Louis Cardozo has taken to the skies—literally!—and enchanted audiences with his latest music video for the single “Fly.”

In an unprecedented and visually stunning production, Louis combines a cinematic soundscape of music with the soaring elegance of a grand piano mounted on a paraglider. “Fly” is not just a song; it’s an exhilarating experience, a visual and auditory feast that defies convention. Co-directed by Franziska Treppman and Louis himself, the music video takes viewers on a captivating journey as Louis and his grand piano take flight, effortlessly gliding through the open skies against a backdrop of endless horizons.

On the single, Louis says, “The song ‘Fly’ is about embracing negative experiences and emotions and using them to build something positive. Often, as an artist, the biggest struggles are also our greatest source of inspiration. The song focuses on connecting with people experiencing these struggles, acknowledging them, and hopefully lifting their spirits enough to reach a place of acceptance.”

Louis is an independent Bristol based artist with a taste for fast-paced lyrics and Spanish guitar. Influenced by vintage blues, soul, jazz, and Latin records, he blends catchy foot tapping melodies with sentimental lyrics, bringing both energy and soul to his shows. With an EP in the works for later in the year and fresh energy to imagine more ridiculous projects into existence, Louis is not slowing down and will be bringing you more incredible musical experiences in the near future.

Back in 2016, when the UK’s damp air first wrapped itself around me, I stumbled upon a sound so ferocious, it felt like a sonic uppercut. “Juggernaut” by Frank Carter & the Rattlesnakes was a revelation—imagine Quicksand’s grit, Lamb of God’s fury, and Fugazi’s defiant edge all mashed into one. It was more than music; it was a call to arms. Carter’s live performances elevated this fury, with a presence so intense it could ignite a fire in the rain. The man was angry, and his music was the storm.

Fast forward to the embrace of 2024, and Frank Carter has done what few dare—he’s swung the pendulum from fury to finesse, embodying a transformation akin to the Arctic Monkeys’ genre-defying leaps. Donning the mantle of a big band leader, Carter croons with a finesse that belies his punk roots, showcasing a creative evolution that is as unexpected as it is captivating. The latest record, Dark Rainbows, is nothing short of brilliant, a testament to Carter’s unyielding drive to explore and expand his musical landscape.

Dark Rainbows marks a significant shift in Frank Carter’s musical direction, showcasing his vocal talents amid broader, more experimental soundscapes. This departure from the intense, raw energy of his past work is evident in standout tracks like “Honey,” which combines catchy melodies with a depth of emotion and a distinctive ’80s new wave feel, and “Man of the Hour” which introduces a ’70s AM radio vibe, adding a slow jam feel to the album.

These tracks speak to a more refined artistic vision, highlighting the band’s willingness to explore different musical eras. However, this change has not been universally praised. While some listeners appreciate the experimentation, others miss the direct, aggressive edge that characterized the Rattlesnakes’ earlier music, criticizing the album’s slow start and its focus on atmosphere over guitar-driven rock.

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