Author Archives: Katie Moore

Having spent time travelling from London to Melbourne and back to the UK again, receiving acclaim from BBC 6 Music, and playing at festivals such as Glastonbury, Reading, and Leeds, Bristol-based singer-songwriter Sam Brockington has now released his debut EP. “Peace of Mind” is a collection of five emotion-strewn indie-folk offerings showcasing the depth of talent of this young songwriter.

The EP’s title track and opener is an impassioned, folk-inspired introduction to the collection, oozing Brockington’s distinctive husky vocals and catchy, uptempo melodies. It’s an instant earworm reminiscent of Paulo Nutini’s early work.

“Follow” proves to be another utterly infectious creation, filled with endearing, heartfelt emotion and charming, twinkling melodies. Next track “Manta Ray” ups the pace of the EP—racing, punchy beats and soulful, reflective vocals in the vein of George Ezra.

Penultimate track “Unstiched” flows with a reflective tone and rich musicality. Exuding luscious harmonies and intricate guitar-picking, it’s a touching indie-folk ballad. EP closer is “Cold Feet,” no doubt a literal sentiment we can all relate to during these frosty times. Showcasing the versatility of Brockington’s vocals—from impressive baritone to impassioned cries—it’s a perfectly heartwarming end to the collection.

“Peace of Mind” is in stores now via Prospect 21.

Set to release her debut EP on 28th September, Amsterdam-based singer-songwriter Pip Blom writes, records, and releases all her own material, and has already received acclaim from 6 Music’s Steve Lamacq and BBC Radio 1’s Huw Stephens. “Are We There Yet?” is a short but sweet collection of three powerful tracks. Combining driving riffs with sweet, catchy melodies—it’s a true treat.

First track “Taxi Driver” immediately hits you with its uptempo indie-pop goodness. Undeniably catchy, its infectious lo-fi fuzz and jangly melodies will no doubt stick in your head upon first listen. Flowing with Blom’s honey-sweet vocals, it’s a track wonderful in its simplicity.

“Honey” is grittier than its predecessor; filled with grunge-inspired, languid riffs, it oozes a raw power showcasing this young songwriter’s skill for creating her own impressive indie sound. Reminiscent of some pioneering ‘90s female Brit Pop bands such as Sleeper or Elastica, “Alone” closes the EP in a gentler, more reflective tone. With acoustic twangs of guitar and Blom’s stripped-back vocals, it exudes a refreshing, honest vulnerability and emotion-strewn openness. A contemplative and delicately beautiful end to an inspired debut.

Although Pip Blom’s influences are clear on “Are We There Yet?”—most notably Aussie songwriter Courtney Barnett—that’s no bad thing in my book. I can’t get enough of these scuzzy, raw indie anthems.

“Are We There Yet?” is out 28th September via Toaster Records.

Tanners Pool are bringing back classic rock ‘n’ roll with their debut EP “Out of Line” out now via Alt/Logic.

The EP kicks off with the punchy, guitar driven “Bad Advice’” where lead guitarist Jess Ashdale immediately makes a name for herself with her insane guitar solo taking center stage. Funk-rock number “I’m Long Gone” feels more akin to the Red Hot Chili Peppers and shifts my initial thoughts on the EP quite drastically in the process. The track feels completely different to “Bad Advice”—it has a distinct edge that’s quite memorable.

Given latter tracks “Nothing and Nobody” and “Plastic Wings” I can’t help but feel a bit disappointed that their funk-rock edge seems to have disappeared into the abyss and we’re back to the more generic classic rock sound. Are they missing a trick here?

Regardless, this debut EP from the Oxford quartet is definitely worth a listen and this band could be something very special. In a world filled with fresh new indie bands, it would be nice to see something a bit unique come out of the woodwork, and with a bit of tweaking, perhaps these guys could be it.

Having received acclaim from Amazing Radio’s Jim Gellatly, BBC Radio Scotland, and Clash, Edinburgh four-piece SHVLLOWS are currently enjoying the rise in attention and seek to continue the streak with their latest offering.

New single “Zurich” is an anthemic slice of indie-pop with catchy synth-laden melodies and subtle cinematic power. Oozing uptempo ‘80s vibes, it’s an infectious track that explores themes of anxiety and self-doubt.

Juxtaposing insightful, lyrical storytelling and melodies, “Zurich” is an atmospheric offering strewn with sweeping emotion and positive energy—a real treat for fans of light-hearted electro-pop. (You can certainly hear why Made In Chelsea featured the track in one of their undoubtedly dramatic and emotion-filled episodes.)

“Zurich,” the new single from SHVLLOWS is in stores 16th September via Choose Rude Records.

Having formed just last year, Manchester trio The Empty Page—Kel, Giz, and Jim—are already stunning listeners across the country with their raucous, grunge-inspired sound, and the band is set to release their debut album, Unfolding next month.

Previously released track “Deeply Unlovable” is the perfect example of the band’s anthemic, raw, riot grrrl-inspired sound. Accompanied by a video featuring women of all shapes, sizes, and ages, it highlights the need for a balanced and realistic representation of women in media, as well as simply being a fantastic song.

The latest taste of the forthcoming album comes in the form of “Big Wheel”—a ‘90s-inspired slice of indie-rock, filled with raw, fuzzy hooks alongside infectious melodies. The Empty Page are a must-listen for anyone craving some gritty, refreshing rock anthems with welcome shades of nostalgia.

Produced by Garth Richardson (Biffy Clyro, RATM, L7), Unfolding, the debut album from The Empty Page, is in stores 21st October via Vociferous Records.

Singer, songwriter, and dancer, the multi-talented Beauty (aka Mark Thompson) creates his own unique style of electro-pop and is set to release his brand new single next month.

“Grown Up” is filled with twinkling synthy melodies alongside pulsating electro beats and Thompson’s distinctive impassioned vocals. Influenced by the likes of Sia, Robyn, and Sam Smith, Thompson describes “Grown Up” as being inspired by a much-needed conversation with an old friend.

Hankering back to simpler times, the track is an ode to childhood and the importance of holding onto what’s close to you when the responsibilities of adulthood become overwhelming. Oozing uptempo, poptastic vibes, “Grown Up” is a gritty slice of mature electro-pop.

“Grown Up” is out 16th September 2016 via BeautysMusic.

With her debut album out next month, innovative artist Fiona Soe Paing has already been receiving acclaim from the likes of Mary Ann Hobbes and Tom Robinson, and wowing crowds with her unique live performances. On the new album Alien Lullabies, the half-Burmese, half-Scottish electronic producer and vocalist creates utterly unique soundscapes.

Influenced by artists such as Bjork and The Knife, Soe Paing creates beguiling tracks filled with off-kilter vocals and haunting electro vibes. Actually a soundtrack to a fantastical live performance consisting of 3D animation and cinematic scenes, Alien Lullabies is an eerie cacophony of strangely beautiful, intensely intriguing music.

With previous releases including a track sung in Burmese for the Sound Of The World compilation by the late, legendary musicologist Charlie Gillet, Fiona’s hoping to captivate the ears of many with her latest offering.

Alien Lullabies, the upcoming album from Fiona Soe Paing, is out 12th September 2016 via Colliderscope.

When Toronto-bred Melissa Bel met the love of her life at a wedding in Las Vegas, little did she know that it would mean uprooting her life forever. Her upcoming album Into The Light tells the story of how a girl from Canada followed her heart, and has now found herself based in rural Devon.

Filled with infectious beats and twinkling melodies, the album showcases Bel’s talent for writing emotive pop ballads, as well as her impassioned, powerful vocals. From the uptempo opener “Real Tonight” to catchy, heartfelt single “Stay Gone,” each track is strong in its lyrical storytelling and emotion-strewn sensibilities.

Inspired by legends such as Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder, and with a sound reminiscent of pop songstresses such as Taylor Swift or Meghan Trainor, Melissa Bel has the ability to captivate with her infectious, heartwarming pop offerings.

Having now released six albums over the last three years and played live dates including Montreal’s Festiblues and supporting Matthew Good, Bel will surely be receiving widespread acclaim with the release of Into The Light.

Into The Light is out 4th November on Belhop Records.

Originally from East London, folk singer-songwriter Yvonne McDonnell started performing acoustically back in 2012. Since then, she has enjoyed playing alongside other musicians and has performed live sessions for Sofar Sounds in London and Cambridge. Delivering emotion-strewn tracks filled with charming violin melodies and the unique vibrato of her vocals, McDonnell has re-released her debut EP, “Endless Soul.”

Running consistently throughout the EP is the theme of being hurt by someone with deep insecurities, the emotions that go with this, and how we learn to empathize with others.

Opening track “I Didn’t Know” flows smoothly as McDonnell’s beautifully clear vocals run gently alongside lilting melodies with a subtle emotive power. Reminiscent of the likes of Tracy Chapman or Kate Rusby, yet with her own utterly unique sound, McDonnell has created something truly charming.

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Welsh band HOMES formed in Cardiff last year and have since garnered support from BBC Wales and Buzz magazine. Now ready to take the rest of the UK (and beyond!) by storm, the band have shared a brand new single.

“Black Gold” is filled with fuzzy riffs, catchy hooks, and uptempo melodies. Oozing smooth, languid vocals, reminiscent of the likes of Franz Ferdinand’s Alex Kapranos, it’s an addictive slice of indie-pop.

Describing “Black Gold” as “Monday’s blues and Friday’s booze all mixed into one sentimental pint of coffee,” HOMES founder Dylan Morgan has explained that the track was inspired by the tale of an aspiring musician who refuses to give up despite all the odds being against him. This feeling of hope and determination flows from the track alongside its upbeat, catchy charm. As the twang of guitars races alongside Morgan’s deep drawl and undeniable charisma, “Black Gold” is an utterly infectious offering.

‘Black Gold’ is out now via Outback Recordings.