Author Archives: Katie Moore

PHOTO: CAMERON BRISBANE | Having received acclaim from publications such as Clash magazine and The Skinny, as well as sharing stages with the likes of Lewis Capaldi, Marsicans, and Honeyblood, Scottish band Indigo Velvet have shared a vibrant new single.

An anthemic slice of infectious indie-pop, “Nineteen” is propelled by a buoyant, driving energy and swirling, spiraling hooks. Oozing a colourful charisma and funk-fused beats, punctuated by the luscious soaring harmonies of Darren Barclay and Jason Tucker, it’s an instantly catchy and immediately danceable offering, marking this young band as definite ones to watch.

With experience playing to no less than 13,000 adoring fans at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro, and with over 1 million plays on Spotify already under their belts, it seems Indigo Velvet are headed for big things. And just one listen of the catchy, tropical allure of “Nineteen” and you’ll hear why.

“Nineteen” is in stores now via IV Records.

Returning to our ears following her 2016 debut album, Birmingham singer/multi-instrumentalist Maria Rodriguez—aka MeMe Detroit—has now released an energy-fuelled new offering in the form of an EP “Life In The Now.”

An ode to the power of positive thinking, “Life In The Now” is a pure sonic delight, fusing a classic rock musicality with a fresh, impassioned energy. Kicking things off, opener “Churchside Inn” oozes a scuzzy, raw grit as the gravelly power of Rodriguez’s vocals soars over infectious riffs. As eerie undertones build back up to a frenzied climax, shades of rock legends Foo Fighters blast into the ears, making for an immense start to the collection.

Continuing with just as much propulsive energy, “Soc Med Junkies” seethes with an uptempo spirit and catchy hooks, reflecting upon society’s unrelenting addiction to social media, whilst current single “De Moe” races with intense thrashing beats alongside soaring sultry vocals and fuzzy, ferocious riffs—an instant ear-worm, fueled by a fierce, yet understated, power.

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Born in the United Arab Emirates and now based in Copenhagen, multi-instrumentalist M. Rexen has been fast building a reputation for his immense live performances, wowing audiences with his vivacious spirit, and a full 10-person band. Now, having received acclaim from the likes of Noisey, he’s shared another unconventional alt-pop gem.

Propelled by fast-paced funk-fused beats and uptempo blasts of brass, “Henrï” was written as an ode to his best friend, bandmate, and muse Henrï Gibbs (known for his work with Mellah). Flowing with Rexen’s soulful, impassioned vocals and a gritty edge, we’re treated to a colourful performance, building with a sweeping vibrant power to an anthemic, theatrical cacophony.

Fusing together a vast array of eclectic elements—self coined as “Wildstyle”—Rexen has created a truly uplifting sonic delight, unique in its quirky charm.

Watch the poignant new video for “Henrï” above and make sure you catch one of M. Rexen’s charismatic live shows as soon as possible!

Having received acclaim for their debut single “Find A Way,” even being nominated for a UK Music Video Award for “Best Pop Newcomer,” South London duo James Lamb and Richard Craker—aka 11—have returned with an instantly catchy new offering.

With shades of Passion Pit or The 1975, “Best Of Me” is centered around an internal dialogue surrounding themes of personal insecurities. Racing with pulsating beats and an immense propulsive energy, it oozes an utterly infectious groove as the gritty impassioned vocals of James Lamb soar. Combining a compelling sense of determination and motivated power alongside whirring, indie-pop sensibilities, “Best Of Me” packs one ferocious punch; inspiring the listener to get up and face whatever challenges may lay in store.

Of the track, Lamb explains, “It’s about not allowing negative energy to take you off your path. It’s about mind-state, the internal battles that we all have… It’s a fight between success and failure, where success is landing all the punches.”

Showcasing not only this young duo’s flawless production skills, but their inspiring energy-fuelled drive to achieve, “Best Of Me” is an uplifting must-listen.

“Best Of Me” is in stores now.

Originally formed in 2011, Irish trio Neil Foot, Ben Connolly, and Kelvin Barr—aka All The Luck In The World—are now based in Berlin. Having previously sold out London venues Servant Jazz Quarters and The Islington and received acclaim from the likes of Clash and Rolling Stone, they have now shared their utterly charming new single.

Flowing with twinkling folk-strewn melodies and luscious harmonies, “Tested & Tried” is a beautifully soothing soundscape. Oozing a whimsical, delicate emotion and sparkling musicality, it soars with rich, honeyed vocals, the passion of which will send shivers down the spine.

Reminiscent of Bon Iver or Iron & Wine, this latest single is a slight step away from previous release A Blind Arcade, whilst maintaining the band’s reflective and poignant songwriting style, resulting in a truly dreamy slice of alt-folk that’ll tug at the heartstrings on first listen. Of the track, the band explain: “Having spent endless hours on our previous record, we want to let things flow a lot quicker from now on… ‘Tested & Tried’ was born out of an acoustic guitar loop, skateboard wheels, and a recurring a dream.”

“Tested & Tried,” the new single from All The Luck In The World, is in stores now.

PHOTO: GIALUCA LA BRUNA | Formed in Sweden in 2015 and now London-based, JUNODEF have recently been receiving praise for their epic offerings from the likes of Louder and The Revue, as well as promoting the cause of women, non-binary, and trans people in music through their work with Girls Rock London. Now, with the release of their latest single “Heights,” the band look set to continue charming ears and spreading their empowering message.

Inspired by the realisation that something is coming to an end, “Heights” exudes the captivating, sweeping splendour of Karin Grönkvist’s vocals, which glide smoothly across glitchy beats and delicate, twinkling hooks. Sparkling with a majestic, soaring emotion, it soon builds to an intense, cinematic soundscape, flowing with a beautifully eerie aura.

Of the track, the band explain: “…‘Heights’ is the moment just before the inevitable happens, the place where everything is still fine and normal; where time has stopped and all your energy is directed towards enjoying important relationships and moments, but with the underlying knowledge that it will soon be gone.”

“Heights,” the new single from JUNODEF, is in stores now via AWAL.

Having received acclaim from Mahogany, The Line Of Best Fit, and Earmilk, and wowed crowds supporting bands such as Let’s Eat Grandma and This Is The Kit, Bristol-based artist Emily Spetch—aka Emily Magpie—has now shared a brand new EP. Completely self-produced at her parents’ house in Cornwall, “Be Your Own Light” is a wonderfully eclectic collection of ethereal sounds, all tied together by the smooth splendour of Emily’s rich vocals.

Opening the EP is the totally captivating “Last Train.” Rich with heart-wrenching and honest emotion, it exhibits a grittier edge than previous releases, whilst retaining those trademark shimmering melodies that we’ve come to know and love. Propelled by the raw, impassioned depth of Spetch’s vocals, it flows with an utterly engrossing angelic majesty.

“Stranger” fuses glitchy beats with delicate finger-picked ukulele and twinkling keys. Showcasing Spetch’s knack for unique, refined production—it’s a perfect amalgamation of sounds, resulting in something truly spellbinding. Using found natural sounds, the EP’s title track is a perfectly dreamy slice of downtempo electro pop, with shades of folk-inspired musicality. Complete with pulsating beats, Emily’s celestial vocal urges you to “be your own light.”

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Bon Iver? Is that you? It’s not, but you’d be forgiven for thinking so. This week’s Artist of the Week is Australia’s Dustin Tebbutt. An indie-folk songwriter who is writing truly mesmerizing tales reminiscent of the aforementioned Bon Iver or Sufjan Stevens, but with his own unique stamp.

Gearing up for the release of his forthcoming EP “Chasing Gold”—out 26th October 2018—Dustin has already released a handful of hits off the EP. From the beautifully uplifting “Love Is Blind,” to the intricate finger pickings of “All Your Love,” to the minimalist electronic beats on “Satellite,” each track is filled with crisp musicality and haunting vocals.

The young songwriter has been making a splash in Australia for some time now, with “All Your Love” actually having been co-written by top Australian electronic duo Flight Facilities earlier this year. It was released as a dance track originally, and its safe to say it did pretty darn well. Now, preparing for the release of his upcoming EP, its seems nothing can stop this young Aussie from strumming his way to the top.

“Chasing Gold” is in stores on 26th October via Eleven: A Music Company.

Having received acclaim from the likes of The Line Of Best Fit and BBC Radio Scotland for previous singles “After River” and “Honey,” Scottish artist Megan Airlie is back with another heartfelt creation.

With inflections of jazz-inspired syncopated rhythms, “Mother Whale” percolates with a sunny, uptempo energy and soulful spirit as Airlie’s deep swooning vocals soar. A step away from the delicate emotion of previous tracks, it’s a perfect fusion of sounds new and old, creating something truly spellbinding.

As Airlie’s rich voice glides alongside the nostalgic musical soundscape, her vast impressive range is evident, as is the versatility of this multi-talented songwriter. “Mother Whale” marks Airlie as a unique and innovative artist—a mystical, musical force who deserves your attention immediately.

“Mother Whale” is in stores now via Bloc Music Records.

Fuzz-fuelled indie-rockers DAZE have just released their latest single “Reformation,” and it’s a humdinger. As a result, we’ve decided to make this London lot our next Artist of The Week.

“Reformation” combines elements of indie, math-rock and experimental sounds to create something that is undeniably unique. From the offset, the single is pounding with fuzz, pulsating drum beats, and passionate vocals from impressive frontman Sam Hong, creating a sound similar to that of Foals or Bloc Party.

If you’re looking for a bit of noughties nostalgia, DAZE can offer it by the bucket load, all the while bringing their own authentic twists and turns to their dynamic sound—making it completely their own.

Catch this full-throttle quartet performing next at The Finborough Arms in London, supporting Liberty Ship, on 15th November 2018. “Reformation” is in stores now.

Recorded at Belle And Sebastian’s rehearsal rooms, Be Kind—the sophomore album from Glasgow’s Starry Skies—follows the band’s debut Ask The Animals and countless not-for-profit events that they have organized to give all kinds of bands a stage to play on.

Reflecting their preoccupation with helping others, the new album, as the title would suggest, reflects on the need for more kindness in the world, and will uplift the soul with its refreshing, positive spirit that runs throughout.

Combining a smorgasbord of genres, Be Kind is a treat for the ears as well as the mood. With elements of blues, folk, Americana, and indie rock, each track oozes its own unique energy. From the twinkling, jangly guitars and sweeping sense of romanticism of album opener and title track, to the driving, blues-ridden riffs of “Sugar Cane,” and the angelic, shimmering emotion of “I’ll Be There,” the album as a whole percolates with a sunny, heartwarming zest.

Layering delicate melodies with catchy, uptempo beats, there’s shades of all sorts to be found; from the gritty passion of the likes of Nathaniel Rateliff, to the infectious indie anthems of Teenage Fanclub, and even a hint of Bob Dylan. And tying it all together, the distinctive, raw emotion of front-man Warren McIntyre’s vocals, delivering thought-provoking and inspired lyrics.

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PHOTO: RAYMOND VAN MIL | Having received acclaim from Noisey and Indietronica, Thomas Harmsen and Camille van de Pavert—aka BUNGALOW—create genre-defying sounds from an underground studio along the canals of Amsterdam. Support slots with big names like Public Service Broadcasting already under their belts, they have now released an utterly infectious new single.

An immense slice of glitchy indie-pop,”Loving It” races with soaring ‘80s-inspired hooks, building to a whirring electro anthem interweaving intergalactic layers of sound. A perfect summer dance-floor anthem, this latest offering will have you grooving all night long to its catchy, synth-filled sonic waves.

So, if it’s sumptuous, danceable earworms you’re after, then BUNGALOW are your guys. Just one listen of “Loving It” and you’ll be doing just that…

“Loving It” is in stores now.

PHOTO: TOM ROELOFS | What an absolutely stunning find we have for you today. KOSCHKA’s “The Flood” is an absolutely exquisite piece of music from start to finish. Get ready to be mesmerised.

Despite being over 6 minutes long, this really is a track that just keep on giving. It was recorded in one take and combines KOSCHKA’s love of experimental and classical music wonderfully. It’s dark, it’s brooding, its emotional. KOSCHKA’s powerful vibrato soars beautifully over the captivating piano-pop melodies, creating something both haunting and dreamy.

It’s clear to see that KOSCHKA is a fan of PJ Harvey with this track, but her love of classical composers also comes through, making this track wholly unique in a world of modern electronic sounds.

“The Flood” is in stores now via Part Du Decor Records.

Having received acclaim from The Guardian, Clash, Afropunk and even Rage Against The Machine’s own Tom Morello, London duo Nova Twins have been wowing crowds across the world with their explosive live shows for a couple of years now. With support slots for Prophets of Rage, Willow Smith, Ho9909, and Die Antwoord already under their belts, they’ve now blasted back into our ears with new single “Lose Your Head.”

Propelled by a dark intensity, “Lose Your Head” builds to an immense, frenzied climax as the gritty power of Amy Love’s vocals soar alongside Georgia South’s thrashing bass hooks. With this unique riotous energy and fierce spirit that has contributed to their ever-growing reputation as one of the most exciting live bands around, Nova Twins fuse elements of hip-hop, punk, and an eerie industrial force to create something truly spectacular.

Of the track, the duo explain, “Flipping punk rock on its head, ‘Lose Your Head’ is a rejection of off the peg opinions, a rallying cry and a celebration of difference, an invitation to walk your own path. We want to open people’s minds and invite them to the wild side.”

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Having already supported the likes of Flat Worms, The Parrots, and Ty Segall, Thee MVPS are fast building a reputation as one of the most exciting live bands around. And now, with new single “American Dreamin’,” they’re set to wow listeners once more with their immense, energy-fuelled offerings.

Emitting a raw, reverb-strewn scuzz alongside impassioned, riotous vocals and blues-infused riffs, “American Dreamin'” races with a thrashing energy—a perfect slice of snarling garage rock with shades of MC5 or The Hives. Fusing good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll with a unique, gritty edge, Thee MVPS is a band that deserves to be on your radar right now.

Set to blow away crowds at DIY’s Big Indie Big Nights this Wednesday, 11th July, Thee MVPS are the exciting dose of new music that your summer warrants.

“American Dreamin’” is in stores now. Catch Thee MVPS live, 11th July, at Two Tribes Brewery, London. Book free tickets here.