Boring Machines Disturbs Sleep

The Sword Keep Sabbath Alive

2007-08-13T18:01:00.001+01:00

Absolutely tremendous stuff from The Sword, from the bastard offspring of Black Sabbath. Why has no-one ever called their band The Sword before this?

"This is simply the best album I've recieved in ages. If you can tell by the cover art, these guys play a mix of souther rock, doom, and a tiny bit of metal all blended to create a melodic and epic masterpeice of american music that deserves a ton of fans and a few bong packs". (According To StereoKiller)

Further Listening

Tunturia : "Maps" (Self-Released)

2007-07-09T18:31:00.000+01:00

To all the people who have been asking, I'm now working over at Angry Ape and (just recently) Grooves Mag. However, I am allowed to post some reviews here, just not the amazing free stuff I get from the webzines. I can post reviews from cd's sent direct by bands though!

So without wasting anymore time, any keen post-rock fans will have heard of Tunturia by now. A terrific recommendation from The Silent Ballet, this is my thougths on their self-released debut "Maps". There is also an mp3 of the wonderful "Cast Shadows On Clouds" at the bottom of the page and is part of The Silent Ballet compilation series.

There is something reassuringly ambitious about "Maps", the self-released debut from Canadian instrumentalists Tunturia. While their name is derived from the Finnish term meaning 'treeless plain', it's Tunturia's ability to construct a swooning, majestic sound that is most striking here. Make no mistake, this is post-rock of the most epic proportions. A sound that summons the atmospheres of daunting, desolate landscapes and invokes images of vast glacial terrains.

Using an array of guitar effects, synths and thought-provoking audio samples, Tunturia have issued a grandiose statement in "Maps". Hailing from the melting pot city of Toronto, this quartet tap into its bustling diversity, defining each of the ten tracks with social, cultural, historical and emotional issues. The grainy audio sample on "Qui Tacet Consentit", for example, is of NRA leader Charlton Heston and deals with his lax attitude towards remedying the powder-keg issue of gun violence in North America.

Both "Cast Shadows On Clouds" and "Echoes Of The Unmoved Mover" anchor this album into the epic post-rock terrains occupied by only a select few. The former moves from celestial, chiming guitar work and echoic sampling that's dripping with nostalgia and into a majestic orchestral passage. The sort of passage the term spine-tingling was created for.

"Echoes..", meanwhile, develops in a more conventional manner. On face value, you may have heard an instrumental passage similar to this one, a hundred times before. But just about when you are ready to dismiss it completely, Tunturia unleash a volley of monolithic, house-leveling distortion that will (quite literally) take your breath away.

Perhaps their crowning moment, though, comes on the 14-minute album closer "Lost In The Hidden Forest". Journeying into the depths of the soul of a faceless man lost in unfamiliar territory, Tunturia seamlessly weave between intricate guitar lines and tentative percussion and into walls of devastating, euphoric noise. It is refreshing for a young band to be so daring and "...Hidden Forest" is sprawling in every sense of the word.

A remarkable debut from a group of musicians with enormous potential. Tunturia: a band with a conscience, a band with big ideas, a band so effortlessly epic that it should be a criminal offence to ignore them.

8.5/10

"Cast Shadows On Clouds" mp3 - Tunturia

Softwar & The Jewelled Antler Collective

2007-05-23T16:36:00.000+01:00

Another day and another review for Angry Ape, this time it comes in the form of mysterious Californian quartet Softwar. I have to admit this was one of the most challenging CD's I've had to tackle so far. Softwar don't deal in conventional songs. In fact, the word song is probably the wrong term altogether. Combining folk music with drones, acoustic instruments, 60's psychedelia, Middle Eastern instrumentation and a love of recording in natural surroundings, Softwar's self-titled debut is challenging to say the least.

Further investigation revealed the four musicians are major players in the enigmatic Jewelled Antler Collective. A group of musicians whose initial aim was to explore drone, improv, field recordings and free-folk music and distribute the results on CD-R's. The music was often recorded live and spontaneously, but has since evolved into something much bigger. Groups like The Skygreen Leopards and Thuja (video) are all part of this collective and some of the music is now being distributed by some of the finest labels on the planet. Softwar's debut can be found on Digitalis, but it's not an album for those with a short attention span. It took more than a few listens for anyhting to register. I almost gave up trying to like it, but then something clicked and dleightful sounds started to trickle through, culminating in floods of enjoyment during last track "Prui".

It's experimental, improvised and frustrating at times. But Softwar are worth investigating for those interested in the whole New Weird America movement. Angry Ape is also hosting an mp3. You can also stream every track at Boomkat.

Softwar Review

Efterklang & The Twilight Sad

2007-05-19T12:01:00.000+01:00

Hi, sorry for the lack of updates, but this is the time of year when my work gets busy. On another note, I have started contributing to a very cool webzine called Angry Ape. Its like a UK version of Pitchfork. The first two reviews are Efterklang's wonderful "Under Giant Trees" Ep and The Twilight Sad's distotrion heavy "Fourteen Autumns & Fifteen Winters".

'Under Giant Trees' - Efterklang (Leaf)

First review for Angry Ape and there is no better way to start than Danish collective Efterklang. I liked 'Tripper' but felt it was a little fragmented. However, the songs on the recent Ep "Under Giant Trees" are wonderful, some of the most magical I have ever had the joy of listening to. According to Leaf, their record label, an full album is due later in the year. If there was ever a band on the verge of greatness, I'd say it's Efterklang. The video is a live performance of 'Jojo', the final track and argubly the best on the ep. I think it conveys the magic of this collective and I urge you to seek this one out, if you haven't already. Angry Ape is also hosting an mp3 from the release, just click the link below.

Efterklang Review

The Twilight Sad - "Fourteen Autumns & Fifteen Winters" (Fat Cat)

I've known about The Twilight Sad for a longer than I have been letting on. Back in 2003 I distinctly remember being mesmerised by a band called The Cholo at Glasgow's 13th Note Cafe. They used an array of strange instruments and created crazy, pyschedelic sounding jams. I remember raving about them and searching for releases in all the usual indie record shops, but nothing came to fruition. Even on the net, my searches were weilding very few results. However, the following quote on the Fat Cat website ahs me convinced The Cholo has since became The Twilight Sad:

"The band played a couple of gigs at the 13th Note in Glasgow, creating half hour-long pieces of music using guitars, bass, drums, theremin, tape loops from films and old folk/country songs, effects pedals, toy keyboards, thumb pianos, saws, computer games and a lot of noise in an attempt to try and discover a sound they could call their own and continue to develop. After these two shows, they rejected many gig offers, and became a more reclusive unit, spending any spare time they had in the studio focused on writing and sculpting away at new material"

'Fourteen Autumns & Fifteen Winters' is just what the Scottish music scene needs right now. Mogwai don't bother with words, Idlewild have lost the plot and the likes of The Delgados, AC Acoustics, Arab Strap and Aereogramme have decided to call it a day. Its a simple formula : towering waves of distorted guitar and hugely infectious choruses. Even the stone-hearted couldn't fail to love this band. And in frontman James Graham, The Twilight Sad have one of the most unique voices out there. No wonder, America loves them. We all should too.

The Twilight Sad Review

The Twilight Sad Myspace

'That Summer, At Home I Had Become The Invisible Boy' mp3 - The Twilight Sad

New Charts

2007-04-29T18:33:00.001+01:00

This week I spent most of my time listening to CD's rather than music uploaded onto Itunes, hence the low count on the charts below. Although it still gives a good indication of what was being played last week. The cd's in question are all worth checking out. Pirate Ship Qunitet's self-titled ep is impressive, while Shout Out Out Out Out defintely have something going for them. I should also mention Panther Attack's "Martyr Bonus", this Seattle-based band are immensely talented and the album features some very complex rythmns. But where as, a lot of math-rock leaves me feeling quite cold, there is something about Panther Attack's style that suggests they have a long career ahead of them. Finally, Port-Royal have refined their sound slightly with "Afraid To Dance" which is out on May. Another impressive release from Resonant and worth investigating

Thee More Shallows : "Book of Bad Breaks" (Anticon)

2007-04-29T18:04:00.000+01:00

On face value, signing to Anticon (home of underground hip-hop) was a strange decision for Thee More Shallows. But the more I think about it, the more it makes sense. One of the things I love about TMS, is their eccentrity or quirkiness, Anticon's ethics are based around the concepts of non-conformity. The label ahs been keen to diversify and lately have brought in more indie-oreintated acts such as SJ Esau and Bracken. I also love the fact that Thee More Shallows write some of the most euphoric melodies since Rivers Cuomo disbanded Weezer. However, TMS can wrap these melodies into experimental rock structures akin to someone like Pavement. Only the Yanks can produce bands like this and TMS follow in the traditions of Stephen Malkmus, Sonic Youth and even Grandaddy. Listening to the likes of "Night At The Night School", "The White Mask" and "Dutch Fist", you cannot help being swayed by this wonderful music. Some of the best songs written so far this year

Rating - 86%

"Night At The Knight School" mp3 - Thee More Shalows

Triptych Round-Up

2007-04-29T17:43:00.000+01:00

It says a lot about the passion of Kling Klang, that they contributed one of the best performances of this year's Triptych Festival. From out of nowhere, the Liverpool four-piece stole the show from their more illustrious counterparts with a performance that was equal parts invention and energy. There was something novel about their set-up, consisting of 3 synthesizers and drums, while their sound is a unique mix of stoner rock sludge and Kraftwerk style electro. The drummer was, quite frankly, fantastic while some of the monsterous guitar riffs had the walls rattling. Most impressive, though, was the sheer passion of this young band as their label boss, Stuart Braithwaite, looked on proudly.

65 Days of Static are unbelievebly talented musicians, there can be no doubting that. Some of the rythmns the drummer was pounding out were outrageoeus. An inventive blend of glitch electronica and precise post-rock, they sound something like a collaboration between Mogwai and Aphex Twin. It was all remarkably impressive at the start. Things, however, got a bit tedious towards the end with the band relying on the same formula throughout the whole set. Not a particularly bad thing, but a little more variety could have propelled this performance to a higher standard. Having said that, they certainly know how to channel the enormous amounts of energy they project and I can see why people swear by 65 DOS. They are certainly a different kettle of fish, but perhaps they suffer from trying to cram too much of a good thing into the one set.

While both 65 DOS and Kling Klang were certainly exciting, the same cannot be said about The Cinematic Orchestra. A performance that would cure even the most extreme cases of insomnia, everything was carefully measured and, therefore, soulless. The musicianship was impeccable, but this was a problem. It left you almost praying for a mistake, a sense of a human touch. But at £18 per ticket, I left feeling that listening to the CD rather than going to see The Cinematic Orchestra live, would have been a better option. Considering they have a new album to promote, this was one lacklustre (and boring) show.

Cinematic Orchestra : "Man With The Movie Camera"

2007-04-27T14:55:00.000+01:00

I'm off to see The Cinematic Orchestra tonight, as part of the Triptych Festival (Scotland's answer to SXSW?) and am hoping to see a performance like this!

And here's a remix by RJD2 as a bonus

Triptych Festival : David Pajo and Alexander Tucker Live @ The Classic Grand

2007-04-26T22:04:00.000+01:00

Despite the universal critical accalim. Despite the fact that the album has been getting heavy rotation on my Ipod. And despite the fact they are widely regarded as the best band to come out of Glasgow for some time. I ,inexplicably, managed to miss The Twilight Sad's set at last night's Triptych Festival performance. Poor stuff, so I can't tell you if they deserve your attention!.

Thankfully though, I didn't miss Alexander Tucker, who defintely does deserve your attention. Words cannot do this guy justice as his brand of hypntoic, looped instrumentation and booming vocals is immense. The last time I caught him live, I was more than slightly drunk. So I was pleased to get some confirmation that my judgement isn't really clouded by alcohol. My fillings were actually rattling during one song, as Tucker switched between distorted and acoustic guitar recording each part, looping it and then playing something new over it. The end result is one huge, monolithic cloud of sound.

For those people that weren't talking during a frightfully shy performance by Slint mainman David Pajo, they were treated to a collection of gentle and melancholic songs. Using an unbelievebly beautiful guitar and what can only described as foot bells (he had 10 or 11 bells on the ground that made a glockenspiel sound when pressed down by his foot), Pajo half-whispered and half-mumbled his way through some gorgeous moments. Although slightly one-paced, there was something captivating about his peformance that kept most people's attention towards the stage. Except, one girl behind me, who obviously paid the £10 entry fee for the banter alone. She talked to her friends as if she would never see them again. Shame really, because she missed an interesting performance from Pajo. But former Arab Strap frontman, Aiadn Moffat, seemed to enjoy it. I'm just hoping there will be NO talking at all when Slint come to play The Barrowlands.

On a side note, tomorrow night I'm hoping to catch a bit of the much-hyped 65 Days Of Static, Kling Klang's performance and some of Stuart Braithwaite's DJ Set, before heading off to see the Cinematic Orchestra.

More Queens Of The Stone Age

2007-04-25T15:52:00.000+01:00

Another taster from Queens Of The Stone Age's forthcoming "Era Vulgaris" album.

Stats - On Itunes Last Week

2007-04-24T23:40:00.000+01:00

I'm back on Last.FM after a 6 month hiatus, here's what I was listening to last week

From The Sky : "Like Crystal In A World Of Glass" Ep (Sound Devastation Records)

2007-04-24T15:36:00.000+01:00

Sound Devastation have a potentially fantastic band on their hands, in the shape of The Pirate Ship Quintet. There's a real sense of invention about that particular 7-piece collective. The same, however, cannot be applied to labelmates From The Sky.

There's nothing particularly wrong with their 5-track "Like Crystal In A World Of Glass" Ep. "There Are Ghosts In The Glass", for example, packs a real emotional punch, as the band pile on the layers of distortion. While, "Someone To Remember" is a slow-buring epic of a track, featuring lovely cascading guitar lines before it all ends with some spectacular percussion crashes.

But in all reality, Mogwai were doing this much better, way back in the mid-90's. Some of the music seems a little forced, where as Mogwai can let things flow organically. In fact, their sound mirrors that of another early post-rock band called South Pacific. There aren't any real memorable moments on this Ep and this has left me wondering if I will ever go back to it again. Granted poor production doesn't do From The Sky any favours. The empty sound probably hinders "When The Sun Sets The Cloud On Fire". I'll bet that this is show-stopper when played live, but on this ep it's impact is minimal.

Overall, it is disappointing for a band that on occasions displays talent. Had From The Sky been a schoolchild instead of a post-rock quartet, then their teacher would be reprimanding them for copying other people's work. Must do better.

Rating - 60%

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The Pirate Ship Quintet - Self-Titled Ep (Sound Devastation Records)

2007-04-24T14:57:00.000+01:00

Not really a 5 piece band, but more of a 14 legged army of musicians, The Pirate Ship Quintet are another young British band intent on creating lavish instrumental soundscapes. This is all getting a bit tedious, isn't it?. Not if TPSQ have anything to do with it. Like Yndi Halda a few years ago, these young upstarts are dragging a stagnant post-rock scene out of the mire of mediocrity using their raw materials to meld something new. They have big ideas, bucketloads of ambition and most importantly the charisma to pull it all off. Witness the jaw-dropping "Pirate Ship", the final track of this ep. A dynamic mix of brass, string arrangements and distortion. It is dramatic and euphoric music, that summons the spirit of the much missed Godspeed collective.

"I Kina Spiser De Hund", meanwhile, comes across like a classically trained Red Sparowes. Maintaining their American conuterparts metallic edge, TPSQ add sombre piano lines and layers of heart-breaking violin, to create a mini-symphony that explodes like a volcano. There's plenty on offer on this 30 minute, 3-track Ep to suggest TPSQ are here to stay. Huge expectations have been placed on this band by those left disappointed by Explosions In The Sky's return earlier this year. If this Ep is anything to go by, this young septet have the abiltity to take instrumental music into uncharted territories.

Rating - 87%

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Patrick Wolf Calls It A Day

2007-04-23T21:35:00.000+01:00

Despite a seemingly succesful support slot on Arcade Fire's tour, Patrick Wolf has issued an online statement telling fans he is quitting music.

" I have enjoyed making and performing music for you all, I have enjoyed trying to give a little hope and inspiration to the world. But I feel, especially when I read all this and I go about my days that I have failed."

"I am not sure whether there will be anymore public communications after that (the final November show), In fact I am pretty sure there will be none. A creative clock is ticking and I have many many projects to be creating with my time left on this earth. I hope to share my last shows with you this year"

Seems like he has a dislike of the music industry, but the video above ("The Wind In The Wires") below (a live performance of "Teignmouth") shows why he will be a big loss.

Fulton Lights : Self-Titled (Android Eats Records)

2007-04-23T21:24:00.000+01:00

Fulton Lights' self-titled debut is a magnificnet collection of songs that can effortlessly burrow their way into your conscious. The album is an alluring mix bringing together experimental indie rock and dark trip-hop production. What could have been a potentailly awkward combination, has turned out to be one of those little, unexpected treasures. Each of the ten tracks on show offer their own highlights here, which makes for an enticing listen from start to finish.

The project of the velvet-voiced Andrew Spencer Goldman (Maestro Echoplex, John Guilt), it's an ambitious attempt to soundtrack his surroundings, the daunting city of New York. It would be easy to file this album under the label of post 9/11 tension. Fulton Lights, however, is so much more that with lyrical content that gets under the skin of the city. Goldman's sentiments such as when he half whispers "That's the pound of the subway, That's the metal screeching like tortured souls", transports the listener to the very core of the Big Apple until you can almost feel its beating heart. "The Sound Of The City" is an early highlight capturing the dense atmosphere of New York with wailing guitar effects that merge with wind sounds. Goldman's fragile vocals offer up a perfect contrast to the disorientating nature of the instrumentation.

Released through his own Android Eats imprint, Goldman has enlisted the help of several high profile friends. Musicians from diverse acts such as The Walkmen, Wilco, The Hold Steady and Christmas Decorations appear throughout the album. But perhaps the most striking contribution comes from the claustrophobic production overhaul on "1,000 Little Eyes", courtesy of former Dälek DJ, Still. Evoking images of smoke-filled jazz clubs, its the sound of the city that never sleeps as eerie effects combine with a thudding beat. Goldman heightens the tension, repeating the hanuting mantra of "You're being watched by a thousand little eyes" over and over.

"Thank God For The Evening News" follows a similar strategy, resting somewhere between Portishead and Massive Attack. Yet, with its dusty trip-hop beat and cinematic string arrangements, it's instantly compelling. If you feel a little too over-whelmed by the album's claustrophobic nature, however, you will find solace in the beautiful "Old Photographs" and the mesmerising "Fire In The Palm Of My Hand". The former contains striking guitar harmonics, while Goldman's soft vocals recall Grandaddy's Jason Lyttle. "The Fire In The Palm Of My Hand", meanwhile, is a laid-back affair with twinkling piano notes, vocal harmonies, floating string arrangements and soft percussion.

Full of sublime production touches, inventive instrumentation and packed with an endless amount of ideas, Fulton Lights debut offers ten dense and beautiful compositions. It is a heartfelt tribute to the city that Andrew Spencer Goldman has called home for the last five years. A gem of an album and a worthy addition to your record collection.

Rating - 89%

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He's Done It Again

2007-04-23T18:44:00.000+01:00

The video above will explain my abscence over the last couple of days. Shunsuke "Genius" Nakamura secured yet another league championship for Celtic with a superb last gasp free-kick. Nakamura is a superstar in his native Japan, he has his own media entourage that follow his every move here in Scotland. Celtic fans were partying all over the world last night!

A Hawk And A Hacksaw And The Hun Hangár Ensemble EP

2007-04-23T18:19:00.000+01:00

Following on from last year's excellent "The Way The Wind Blows" album, A Hawk And A Hacksaw have again travelled to the heart of Eastern Europe for their latest project. Jeremy Barnes & co have roped famous Hungarian musicians under the The Hun Hangár Ensemble guise and Beirut's Zach Cordon turns up adding his trumpet and mandolin expertise. Limited to just 4,000 copies the "A Hawk And A Hacksaw And The Hun Hangár Ensemble EP" will be released on May 7th, to coincide with an extensive tour of Europe.

With Efterklang's sublime "Under Giant Trees" already under their belt this year, The Leaf Label are looking to provide yet more evidence of the multi-dimensional artists on its roster. And they seem to have found a winner in A Hawk And A Hacksaw, who are dragging authentic European folk music in the 21st Century.

A mix of the weird and wonderful, exotic instruments such as Hungarian Bagpipes, Cymbalom and Bouzouki are combined with more traditional equipment to create these 8 compositions. Leaf have kindly donated two mp3's.

"Ihabibi" mp3 - A Hawk And A Hacksaw And The Hun Hangár Ensemble

"Zozobra" mp3 - A Hawk And A Hacksaw And The Hun Hangár Ensemble

Fulton Lights : "Fire In The Palm of My Hand"

2007-04-19T16:41:00.000+01:00

Work commitments have meant I am slightly delayed in posting the review of Fulton Lights' self-titled album. But you can check out the serene "Fire In The Palm Of My Hand" above in the meantime. It's the work of Andrew Spencer Goldman (released on his own Android Eats imprint) and a plethora of guests and is the culmination of his experiences of living in New York City. Sevearl tracks deal with issues and themes prevalent in the daunting city and makes for a very interesting listen. But the most startling aspect of this album has to be Goldman's soft, velvet vocals. Review to follow

Queens Of The Stone Age : "Era Vulgaris"

2007-04-18T20:14:00.000+01:00

Queens Of The Stone Age are set to return in June with new album "Era Vulgaris" and the video above gives an insight into the recording process. Not only is Josh Homme one of my favourite guitarists (ever since his work in Kyuss), QOTSA are easily one of the best rock bands on the planet.

According to Homme the album will be "dark, hard, and electrical, sort of like a construction worker"[1]," and "it's like dirt, clearly seen". Track titles include "Sick, Sick, Sick" (which will feature Julian Casablancas) and other guests include DFA 1979, Trent Reznor, Mark Lanegan and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top.

Listen too "3's & 7's" here

Brand New Herb Mix

2007-04-18T18:58:00.000+01:00

Never one's to stay quiet for too long, those kind people at Herb Recordings have come up with another mix. This time it focuses on some newer material with the likes of Engine7, Kingbastard, Rubens, Zerova and Solipsism appearing.

Tracklisting

1. Engine7 - Sunrise, Catalonia
2. Kingbastard - [E p s i l o n S o n g]
3. Zerova - Unnamed Place
4. solipsism - Organicism
5. Shamanic Technology - Thought Bubble Experiment
6. Austech - Circuit Bent
7. Rubens - Vertical Hold
8. Kingbastard - [T r i p o d]
9. Zerova - You Won't
10. Engine7 - Tempertantrum
11. Shamanic Technology - Electronic Therapy

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Explosions In The Sky Cancelled, But Panther's Attack

2007-04-17T16:11:00.000+01:00

Just came home from work to find out that both th Glasgow and Manchester Explosions In The Sky gigs have been cancelled, due to adverse weather conditions in the USA preventing the band getting a flight. I'd been looking forward to this for a while, so this was a real kick in the teeth.

This is what we'll be missing:

My disappointment has been tempered somewhat, by the arrival of a cd (in my mailbox) by a band with the excellent title of Panther Attack.

I'll admit to not knowing to much about this Seattle-based band. But, judging by the initial impressions of their "Martyr Bonus" CD, that will change in the coming days. The video above makes them look like a harder-edged Tortoise.

Shout Out Out Out Out

2007-04-16T18:05:00.001+01:00

Bizarre circumstances at the weekend, meant I recieved an e-mail from who I initially thought was Leslie Feist of Broken Social Scene. It turns out it was her sister!, Emily, who is currently deeply involved with Toronto based Six Shooter Records. Six Shooter also run a media company that is responsible for Arcade Fire's publicity. One band she mentioned, was the fantastically-titled Shout Out Out Out Out. The band from Edmonton have blog-cred written all over them and describe themselves as:

"...two drummers + four bass players + two samplers + five synthesizers + one vocoder. volatile dance music. pick your jaw up off the floor and get down."

A modern day, more fun-loving version of Kraftwerk, if you will. I actually remember there was a fantastic buzz about this band when I lived in Toronto.

"Forever Indebted" (advance mix) mp3 - Shout Out Out Out Out

Verdena & Ronin

2007-04-16T17:21:00.000+01:00

You can read a review I wrote for Italian webzine Rockit, on Milanese trio Verdena, here (it's in English too, for all you non-Italians). A loose description of their sound would be something akin to Muse jamming with Reef (whatever happened to them?) or The White Stripes. Although, not something I would normally listen to, their album "Reqium" was enjoyable, with some monster-sized riffs and grandiose arrangements, that did remind me quite a bit of Muse.

Interested?. Stream These.

However, I think I would have been more at home reviewing Ronin's "Lemmings" album. This was given to another blogger, who made a very good job of getting me excited about hearing this band:

"Like some kind of indie Ennio Morricone, Italian post-rockers Ronin compose the kind of languorous instrumental pieces you would expect to find in a modern spaghetti western. At times akin to Calexico, at others reminiscent of a less guitar-dependent Texas blues, the band is at its best when the various pieces come together to reminiscent images of a romantic past. Accordion, tuba, singing saw – all evoke the parched landscapes and rugged characters of Sergio Leone"

Read the rest of the review here.

Update: Just checked out Ronin's myspace page, they seem to have around 26 members!. An Italian version of A Hawk and a Hacksaw?

Islaja : "Ulual Yyy"

2007-04-15T20:38:00.000+01:00

Both Volcanic Tongue and Boomkat have given Finnish musician Islaja "Ulual Yyy" album of the week, so this may be worth checking out.

"...just slightly out of phase double-tracked vocals, all navigating with a zagged, fractured almost free jazz logic and weird hints of primitive dub damage that provide glimpses of the kinda parallel universe where a phantom Nina Simone might front Can" says the Volcanic Tongue.

Boomkat,on the other hand ,has come up with a new genre to describe her sound, naming it Finnish forest folk :

"don't expect to hear any future radio hits, this is an album that demands your full attention, your time and your love, and the more you give it, the more you'll end up taking away with you. A glittering recommendation and without a doubt one of the finest discs you'll hear this year... buy it...."

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Celeste : "Pessimiste" (Denovali Records)

2007-04-15T13:11:00.000+01:00

France is better known for electronic exports like Air and Daft Punk, but Lyon hardcore/metal quartet Celeste are here to redress the balance with "Pessimiste", a 12" (limited to 500 copies) featuring 5 tracks of apocalyptic, discordant heavy rock. It's a devastatingly brilliant statement combining the key elements of Neurosis, Will Haven, Red Sparowes and even hints of Explosions In The Sky. Celeste have created a distinctive sound despite being involved in a over-crowded genre.

Listening to the monumental "Diluons Nos Souvenirs D'enfance", is like the equivelent of being hit by a tonne of bricks. It leaves you absolutely flattened by the sheer intensity of its impact. It's stunning five minutes of barbed guitars, explosive throat-shredding vocals and dynamic drums. But you will realise from the outset on opener "Afin de Tromper L'ennui", that Celeste are an uncompromising beast. They don't do things by halves, they go for the throat like a pack of rabid wolves.

Music simply cannot get any heavier than "Car Quoi Qu'il Advienne, Tout est à Chier". Designed to rupture your speaker system (and possibly your eardrums), Celeste weave between dense metal dynamics and intricate Explosions In The Sky style guitar interplay. Then both aspects are combined to near fatal effect. However, amidst the mass of doom, strife and juggernaut riffs, there is a keen sense of melody buried deep in their apocalyptic sound. "De Notre Aversion à Notre Perversion" starts like the tolling of the bells of hell itself, then swerves into a beautiful tranquil guitar passage, before we are escoretd right back to Satan's lair via riffs the size of tidal waves.

Drawing on influences that are both experimental and diverse, Celeste has melted the boundaries of hardcore and metal to create something that is their own. Hauntingly heavy and intoxicatingly melodic, this is metal but not as we know it.

Rating - 86%

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"Afin de Tromper L'ennui" mp3 - Celeste

Blonde Rehead : "23"

2007-04-14T11:29:00.000+01:00

Thanks to Opuszine for pointing out the new video for Blonde Redhead's rather terrific song, "23". Blonde Redhead are a band I see all over the net, yet I had never taken the time to listen to them. Better late than never, I suppose

Engine7 : "Songs For The Lonely Mix"

2007-04-13T15:45:00.000+01:00

Another couple of weeks have passed, so that must mean its time for another exclusive mix courtesy of Engine7. This one is entitled "Songs For The Lonely". These mixes are providing a fascinating glimpse into Engine7's wide ranging influences.

Tracklisting

1. World Trade Center Cello Theme - Craig Armstrong
2. Camille - George Delerue
3. On the Nature of Daylight - Max Richter
4. The Sun's Gone Dim and the Sky's Turned Black - Jóhann Jóhannsson
5. Des Plumes dans la Tete - Sylvain Chauveau
6. Cantus in Memoriam Benjamin Britten - Arvo Pärt

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Yellow6 : "Painted Sky" (Resonant)

2007-04-12T15:02:00.001+01:00

Three things in life are certain. Death, taxes and quality releases from Yellow6. The solo project of Jon Attwood, Yellow6 releases have graced the coolest indie labels on the planet, from Darla right through to Make Mine Music. For "Painted Sky" (his 7th album and over 50th release in total), Attwood seems to have found his true home through the Resonant Label who can count kindred spirits like Port-Royal and Library Tapes amongst their roster. Amazingly, this is the first release by a British artist from the UK label.

As a relative newcomer to Yellow6's music (I bought "Disappear Here" around 18 months ago), I was hugely impressed by his contributions to compilations for a few European based labels. It seems, despite the prolific nature of his abiltiy to write songs, quality is rarely a problem. It appears to be the case with "Painted Sky" too, where Attwood has opted to dismantle his sound, instead using just guitar, piano and subdued percussion elements only. It is testament to his abilities, therefore, that his guitar-based experiments here, are some of the most emotive and rich sounding of the year.

"Pleasure/Pain" is an absolutely gorgeous piece of music, with a cool, pronounced melody that combines with frost-bitten guitar work for over eight beautiful minutes. A definite album highlight. Attwood's sound mixes the key elements of cult bands like Bark Psychosis, New York experimentalists Charles Atlas, some of the earlier Kranky artists and even hints of Ennio Morricone. "I Know I Shouldn't (But I Do)", is a superb album opener, like the most affecting Labradford number you've never heard. Full of vivid guitar notes, dripping with melancholy, they reverberate from speaker to speaker. The track becomes more aggressive, towards the end his guitar tone is full-bodied and even a little anguished sounding.

"I Loved You More Before I Knew You Loved Me", comes across like a gigantic music box, with the sounds of Attwood's guitar slowly weaving intricate lines around a shimmering backdrop. "Common", meanwhile, gives us the first hint of the subtle percussion, mentioned in the press release. Using more glacial melodies and guitar distortion, this track is transported into darker territiories with the addition of Massive Attack style beat work and mysterious sound effects.

It is tracks like "Common", "Mare" and "Azure" that prevent "Painted Sky" from being one-paced and repetitive. There is no disputing Attwood's guitar skills, but changes in tempo help space out the driftng ambient passages. Both "Azure" and "Mare", for example, make good use of excellent organic percussion, while Attwood sprays a combination of subtle, distorted and reverbed guitar tones around his canvas. It is a simple, but effective technique.

With over 50 releases its never easy to know where to start with Yellow6. I would suggest "Painted Sky", it contains most of the elements of Attwood's sound. Consistency is never an issue, steeped in emotion "Painted Sky" features several heart-breaking moments . For organic guitar and piano experiments in an ambient post-rock/shoegazer vein, you could do far worse than visit Attwood's back catalogue. But in 2007, he stands shoulder to shoulder with some of his more famous counterparts and "Painted Sky" could very well be soundtracking these last few weeks of Spring.

Rating - 84%

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Some (very unexpected) News

2007-04-11T19:33:00.000+01:00

A triple whammy of sorts, straight form the horses mouths. There was me thinking it was impossible for 2007 to get any better:

Last Days

"Ok, over 2 months without an update isn't great but there's little info to share. At the last count I had 49 minutes of new music worth hearing, most of it is finished and a couple of tracks are still in demo form. At this time i would predict that it will be complete by the end of June at the latest but I'm aiming for the end of May. Artwork is being produced as I type.

In about 4 weeks, or when i'm clearer about the final tracklisting I'll put 1 or 2 new tracks up on the last days myspace.

One of the new tracks called 'Points Bridge' will appear on a forthcoming compilation, more about that when I get the go ahead to talk about it!" (via Graham Richardson aka Last Days)

There's a new Last Days interview with Foggy Nations Magazine, but it is eerily like the one I conducted.

Sigur Ros

I never believed those Sigur Ros rumours, until this was posted on the SR message board:

"the band has recorded and mixed "Rokklagið", "Lagið í gær", (new version of)"Von" and "Salka" but these songs will not be included on the next album. instead, they will appear on an EP to be released (tentatively) later this year. the band wants to build the next album on a clean slate instead of mixing together old and new songs.

I think this is going to make a fucking great EP... three of the band's most conventional basic instrument "rock" songs and then the sugarsweet "Von" in between....." (via the moderator of the Sigur Ros Message Board)

Just in case you forgot how wonderful they are.

Helios

John Xela announced this on the Type Recordings Message Board last night:

"Okay I thought I might break some news to you... the long awaited followup to Helios' "Eingya" is finally here - it's a 6 track (30 minute) EP called 'Ayres' and it's going to be out in early July on CD and very limited vinyl (the LP version of Eingya sold out most stores in about 4 weeks...). As some of you might know it's quite a progression from "Eingya" and I'm really excited about it indeed. More news soon and maybe some sound samples." (via John Xela)

The progression he is talking about, might or might not be be the tracks you can listen to here.

Japanese Gum - "Talking Silently" Ep (Marsiglia Records)

2007-04-10T13:20:00.000+01:00

Marsiglia Records unleashed Port-Royal upon an unsuspecting music scene a few years back and it seems they are up to their old tricks again. Japanese Gum are another Genoa based band and one that has all the right ingredients to follow in Port-Royal's footsteps. Mixing crystal clear beat programming with syrupy vocals and glazed melodies, this duo's "Talking Silently" ep is a captivating listen from start to finish. They elegently meld shoegazer structures with cutting edge beats a style that is most evident on the excellent "..And Talk Silently".

"Could The English Rain Wash It Away", meanwhile, deals with the current political climate in Northern Ireland. It's rare for music, that is primarly electronic, to strike such a chord. But admist the chiming melody and crisp processed percussion, Japanese Gum certainly get their point of view across using a filtered sample of a television news report. The fact that the best track here is actually a remix of Port-Royal's "Speznaz Paul Leni" shouldn't detract from the overall quality of this ep. Featuring whiplashed beats and static hisses over the original Port-Royal music, Japanese Gum have turned this track on its head and made it completely their own.

It's an impressive release, clocking in at just under 25 minutes and spread over 6 tracks, from the Italian duo (until recently they were a three piece outfit). Although not a million miles away from Port-Royal's epic sound, Japanese Gum certainly show enough originality. After the Marsiglia ep, Port-Royal went on to create the sprawling "Flares". My money is on Japanese Gum doing something similar, keep your eyes peeled for this lot!.

Rating = 83%

"Paul Leni (Deep Mix)" mp3 - Japanese Gum / Port-Royal

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What Boomkat Is Saying....

2007-04-09T10:57:00.000+01:00

It's the Easter holidays and this is what Boomkat recommends....

"Hibernaculum" - Earth

Earth mainman Dylan Carlson is better known as the man who allegedly bought the shotgun that Kurt Cobain committed suicide with. Tragic circumstances asides, he also serves as the lead guitarist of Seattle drone rockers Earth and their brand new "Hibernaculum" LP is album of the week over at Boomkat:

"The next chapter in Earth's revitalised story and, interestingly it sees the band re-visiting some of their old classics and bringing them up to date..."

It's also worth mentioning that the mighty Autechre have been drafted in for remixing duties too.

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Elsewhere...

"Burning Of Impurites" - Grails

Following on from th astounding "Black Tar Prophecies" Grails are back, Boomkat says "..this is rock-folk (not folk rock) and by injecting it with a keen knowledge of classic metal, the band have procured for themselves a distinct sound.."

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"Farval Falkenberg" - Erik Enocksson

Friends have been raving about this Erick Enocksson album, a gorgeous soundtrack to the Swedish film Farval Falkenberg. A must for fans of Jasper TX, boomkat urges us to "close the doors and lock yourself inside, this is personal... music to fall in and out of love to..."

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"Altar" - Boris & Sunn0)))

I bought this on a trip to Toronto last year and it became one of my favourite purchases of the year. Sunn0))) and Boris are two of the most intense bands on the planet and combined to create this masterpiece. It's now available for the not so cheap price of £29.99 on heavy duty triple vinyl. This album is worth buying for the track "Sinking Belle (Blue Sheep)" alone.

"Altar is truly one of the most stunning albums you're likely to hear this year, which should serve to redefine a genre"

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Japanese Gum : "Could The English Rain Wash It Away"

2007-04-08T13:38:00.000+01:00

Japanese Gum - Live@Piazza Banchi

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I have a review of Italian duo Japanese Gum coming up later this week, but I thought I would share this short exceprt of the politically-charged "Could The English Rain Wash It Away". Signed to Marsiglia Records, Japanese Gum are kindred spirits of Port-Royal and even feature a terrific remix of "Paul Leni" on their "Talking Silently" ep. In fact, Port-Royal even recommende them on this site some months ago. This release is currently available to download for free and has recieved some favourable reviews.

'Port Royal made it on Resonant after a cdr like this…will they have the same luck? Keep your eyes and ears open'.

The Twilight Sad

2007-04-08T12:07:00.000+01:00

I have been slow on the uptake about this Glasgow quartet. Friends from as far a field as Belgium have beaten me to it already, a poor show from someone who has lived in Glasgow for 24 years. The Twilight Sad are actually from just outside Glasgow and have been about since 2003. Playing a few gigs in Glasgow's famous 13th Cafe, they initially created half an hour compositions using guitars, drums, brass, theremin, tape loops and effects pedals. Ok, so far so post-rock!.

However, over the last couple of years the band have refined their monolithic sound, adding heavily accented Glasweigan vocals. It's akin to Aidan Moffat (ex-Arab Strap) joining Mogwai or Idlewild. Now signed to Fat Cat, the band lay on layers of distortion and when combined with those vocals, gives them a unique selling point.

Critcal acclaim has been poring in over the bands "Fourteen Autumns and Fifteen Winters" album. I can safely say I have yet to see a negative review. The band are keen to capitalise on this critical success, they have scheduled an appearence at Scotland's Triptych Festival (with David Pajo and Alexander Tucker) and will also embark on North American tours with both Aereogramme and A Northern Chorus.

"That Summer, At Home I Had Become The Invisible Boy" mp3 - The Twilight Sad

Library Tapes : "Feelings For Something Lost" (Resonant)

2007-04-06T15:35:00.000+01:00

The problem with this 2nd album from acclaimed Swedish duo Library Tapes, is not trying to negotiate the long song titles ( example : "It Was A Cold Day In February And We Walked Across The Lake"). It's finding the right mood or setting to fully apprecite this short collection of sparse piano-led pieces. Listening to this when driving is a no go, too many distractions. Similarly, loading this onto your Ipod and for use when travelling on public transport doesn't work either, the background noise would drown out 75% of the sounds on "Feelings For Something Lost". I found sticking this on repeat, dimming the lights and reaching for a good book (I chose Ian Rankin's excellent "The Hanging Garden") is the best way to sample this album. I often find this method allows the music to slowly edge its way into your subconscious and that proved to be the case here.

I got this album on the basis of some excellent reviews and one truly outstanding contribution to the Miasmah "Silva" compilation. This was a distortion heavy piece that really did have me thinking that the world had finally found someone to carry on Labradford's work. So it came a s a surprise to find this album contained little more than muffled piano arragements, field recordings, tape hiss and static sounds. A little disappointed, this one was consigned to the nether regions of my Ipod playlists.

However, through the methods described above, I have managed to stretch some enjoyment from this album. "Lives Running Low Through 7th (The Shame Of It All)" starts with low-key storm sounds and adds some beautiful piano playing that resembles a toybox. Barely one and a half minutes long, it sounds as if it was recorded in a darkened attic. Restraint is the key here, the spaces betweem notes are important. "Departures (Burning Saints For Your Own Sins)" is an unsettling mix of wind sounds, gurgling noises and a vacuum of wailing guitar feedback, that is so far back in the mix that it is hardly audible. But there is a feeling that a lot of the short tracks on this album are out-takes from previous recording sessions.

Lasting just 28 minutes, this release would be better suited as an Ep. Although, the length of time it takes for "Feelings... to register anything of note would suggest otherwise. There are some inspired moments, such as the lonely piano of "Feelings For Something Lost In Two Parts" or the rain-soaked ambience of "It Ends With A Version Of Keeping Reminding About What Once Where". But, the majority of the music is rather forgettable, making this record a challenging experience at best. However, I will reserve judgement until their next release "Höstluft" surfaces, which should see light of day in June 2007 through Make Mine Music.

Rating - 62%

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Celer - "Ariill" (Archaic Horizon Records)

2007-04-06T13:36:00.000+01:00

This is the latest offering from the relatively new Archaic Horizons Netlabel and it comes from Californian duo Celer (pronounced "Sle"). Influenced by the likes of Brian Eno, John Cage, Arvo Part and Wendy Carlos , their rolling soundscapes are suitable for fans of Marsen Jules and Wolfgang Voigt. Both compositions last over the half hour mark and were created on piano then filtered through 'triangular synthesis'.

Press Release

"Celer's "Ariill" was a beginning point for the two artists to produce original, melancholic music with a geometric and technical approach, at many times allowing the machines to compose on its own without previous sound examination. Originating from improvisational piano sonatas, the husband and wife duo performed their entire pieces on the piano, allowing the keys to float into their triangular sound setup, and in the end, produce a result that makes sound appear as if it is actually standing upright.

In the first self-titled track, Celer present the definition of their experiment. To understand this procedure the listener must think of a typical music track to be flowing from left to right, such as starting at 0:00 and continuing to the end, from left to right, just as is always displayed by any typical music player. From this point, at the end of the recording, the listener must think of the track being 'pulled upright' from the center. This is how it was originally recorded. The original beginning and ending are now indistinguishable in the center of the track, and the current beginning and ending finally only resemble each other.

The second self-titled track shows Celer demonstrating a continuous mix of shorter experiments, all having unknown geometrical shapes, flowing effortlessly into each other.

The entire release can also be enjoyed while reading the poetry written by Dani, which can be viewed here on the album art. In addition to the poetry Celer has provided a diagram to help understand their unique (recording) process."

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Ólafur Arnalds - "6" (live)

2007-04-06T13:03:00.001+01:00

This is a rather fantastic recommendation from Last Days. Ólafur Arnalds is just 19 years old! and hails from Iceland (where else?). This is taken from his "Eulogy For Evolution" debut, out on Progress(ion) Records. Combining classical instrumentation with and indierock aesthetic, there are obvious comparisons to Sigur Ros. But Arnalds is sculpting his own epic, string-laden compositions. If you head over to his myspace profile, there are two tracks available for free download.

Mothertrucker

2007-04-05T16:55:00.001+01:00

Once described as "the audio equivelant of heroin", Birmingham quartet, Mothertrucker create one unholy racket. With an impressive list of influences, their sound encompasses the bludgeoning desert rock of Kyuss and the epic instrumental nature of Mogwai.

Tours and shows with the likes of Aereogramme, Yndi Halda, The Pirate Ship Qunitet and Bossk, has brought them to the attention of the rock bibles Terrorizer ("Hypnotic") and Metal Hammer ("anyone who can write such punishing riffs, deserves success"). A must for any self-respecting post-rock/stoner rock/heavy rock fan, I've just ordered their "Electric Blacksmith" ep and you should too (it's only £3).

Need some more convincing?. Listen to the mp3 (kindly donated by the band) below at face-shattering volume.

"Kings Of Kabaddi" mp3 - Mothertrucker

Rafael Anton Irisarri : "Daydreaming" (Miasmah)

2007-04-04T16:22:00.000+01:00

Deaf Center certainly know a thing or six about deeply affecting, piano-led compositions. 2005's "Pale Ravine" remains one of the most enthralling recorded documents in that field. "Daydreaming", by Seattle-based composer Rafael Anton Irisarri, is my first foray into the Norweigen duo's impressive Miasmah imprint. Irisarri, himself, has a terrific pedigree, as well as sculpting captivating electro-acoustic sounds, he also curates the Kupei Muska label and serves on the board of directors for Seattle's Decibel Festival.

Using piano, synths and acoustic and electronic instruments his album, "Daydreaming" consists of seven beautifully crafted modern/classical compositions. Irisarri creates music that can be both epic and subdued, with dreamy textures floating effortlessly and dissolving into one another. "Lumberton" is a highlight that incorporates glittering piano tones and backward looped synths. It's a little less cinematic than Deaf Center, but a tad more aggressive than Goldmund. The listener can only bask in its shimmering beauty.

"Voigt-kampff" (surely named after the polygraph test to determine replicants in "Bladerunner") recalls the glacial intensity of Radiohead's "Treefingers", while, "Fractal" employs barely audible beats, reminiscent of Gas' "Konigsforst". The vinyl crackles only serve to heighten the tension, as shimmering synths and fluctuating textures hover and blend.

Much like Wes Willenbring's "Somewhere Someone Else", this album is full of atmospherics, lulling piano tones and multi-layered instrumentation. Ending with the introspective "A Glimpse", you are left with a complete sense of calm and relaxation . With just under 35 minutes worth of imaginative piano-led pieces, it may not be breaking any new ground, but "Daydreaming" is utterly gorgeous all the same. Which should warrant furthter investigation into the Miasmah collective

Rating - 80%

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"Lumberton" mp3 (Excerpt) - Rafael Anton Irisarri

Kingbastard : "Upwnstairs" (Herb Recordings)

2007-04-04T15:42:00.000+01:00

Kingbastard - Upwnstairs (Herb Recordings)

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This is an older track from Herb Recordings' Kingbastard, that has been given a nice production overhaul. If you like this track, it may be worth investigating his "Bastardise" (Review) Ep which you can order here.

Grinderman : Self-Titled (Mute Records)

2007-04-03T00:06:00.000+01:00

"Foul-mouthed, noisy, hairy and darn well old enough to know better" reads the Grinderman press release. This is not what we expect of Nick Cave, along with three of his Bad Seed conspirators, at this stage of his career. Approaching the ripe old age of 50, most artists are content with nostalgic arena tours where they recall past glorious in front of over-zealous audiences. Cave, though, has chosen a completley different path. Maybe it was a pact with the devil in exchange for his soul, but on this form there is no stopping rock's main hellraiser. Grinderman are a hard-drinking, hard-rocking garage rock band that recalls the spirit of MC5 and The Velvet Underground.

Stripped down to the bare essentials, Cave even learned the guitar for this album. He is joined by Warren Ellis on Fendocaster duties, Jim Sclavunos manning the drum stool and Martin P. Casey holding it altogether with some dirty, distorted bass. This Grinderman experiment is said to be the way forward for future Bad Seeds releases. Let's hope so because this album is tremendous from start to finish, with Cave in particularly fine form.

His lyrics are brutally personal ("My face is finished, my body's gone, and I can't help but think up here, in all this applause and gazing down at all the young and beautiful, with their questioning eyes that I must, above all things, love myself"). They are wickedly funny too, on the same track, "No Pussy Blues", Cave bemoans his lack of luck with the ladies with this classic line: "I sent her every type of flower, I played the guitar by the hour, I patted her revolting little chiwawa, but still she just didn't want to...". Of course, this is all soundtracked by rapid-fire basslines and staccato drumming. It's honest and angry, with the band unleashing their vitriol with furious wah-wah guitars and pummelling percussion in the chorus.

Despite being labelled a garage-rock band, Grinderman are far from limited. On the eponymous "Grinderman", Cave shows us why he is the closest thing to Jim Morrison, with a performance that summons the shamanic spirit of The Doors poet. "Love Bomb", on the other hand, is a greasy blues-based track with waves of wailing guitar. While, "(I Don't Need You To) Set Me Free" returns to that vintage Bad Seeds sound. "Honey Bee (Let's Fly To Mars", however, is the album stand-out. A fast-paced, dynamic rythmn, howls of discordant guitar work and kooky, horror movie organ sounds are mixed to terrific effect, giving the impresssion that this would be an absolute show-stopper if the band ever toured this album.

Grinderman, therefore, is a massive slap in the face to those who doubted Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. In these days, when BBC Radio don't play your records because your not on their cool list or because your over 40 years old, this record gives the middle finger to all those who place unfair expectations. The older you get, the more retrospective your material should be. This is a school of thought shared by media and (some) fans alike. Not so!, says Cave and his cohorts. A mid-life crisis?, not a chance!. This is the sound of a band showing us young upstarts how it should be done.

Rating = 87%

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Metacritic

Crippled Black Phoenix Debut Album Released

2007-04-02T17:33:00.000+01:00

The long-awaited debut album from the super-collective Crippled Black Phoenix has been released today. "A Love of Shared Disasters" is available from the Portishead owned Invada Records in both CD and 2x LP. Crippled Black Phoenix feature former Electric Wizard drummer Justin Greaves, Mogwai's Dominic Aitchison ,folk-rock singer Joe Volk and experimentalist Team Brick, as well as about another EIGHT musicians. The album itself is a stunning collection of classic rock, psychedelia, post-rock and dark, slow-burning ambience. The band uniquely blend Victorian instrumentation with modern day techniques and equipment, to create a compelling and totally original sound, that they have christened "Endtime Ballads"

"Born from a blizzard of horned cats, Crippled Black Phoenix bring you a twisted cinematic experience, handcrafted by a mercenary crew of musical outsiders, giving depth and gravity to regal songs about love, loss, tragedy and redemption" (Press Release)

Order your copy of one of this year's most anticipated albums.

Excerpts

"When You Are Gone" mp3 (excerpt)
"You Take The Devil Out Of Me" mp3 (excerpt)
"Sharks and Storms/Blizzard of Horned Cats" mp3 (excerpt)

For more insight into this enigmatic collective, read this interview I conducted a while ago.

iLiKETRAiNS : "Spencer Perceval" (Beggars Banquet)

2007-04-02T00:02:00.000+01:00

The rather charming Czech blog, Getecho, alerted me to the new iLiKETRAiNS single, "Spencer Perceval". I was quite impressed with the brooding nature of their "Progress: Reform" Ep last year and featured them in the tips for 2007 post. This track is eccentrically English, dark, epic and is what I'd call progress from this young band. It has the potential to propel them into the big leagues. This is what Sigur Ros would have sounded like if they had to put up with the miserable UK weather. The video is also pretty excellent and reminds me of some of those stunning Tool promos. Impressive stuff all round. The single was released on March 26th

This is the band's explanation of the themes of the single:

"Spencer Perceval is a colossal nine and half minutes, reciting the story of the only successful assassination of a British Prime Minister in 1812. The song is written from murderer John Bellingham's perspective whilst its accompanying track I am Murdered is sung from the perspective of Spencer himself. Both tracks were produced by the band late 2006 in the first recording session for their forthcoming debut album. Read more about the history of both the murderer and the murdered "

If you want to find out the story of Spencer Perceval, go here.

Myppa : "Altruistic Behaviours" (Herb Recordings)

2007-04-01T16:30:00.000+01:00

Following on from Zerova, Martin Czajka is another Polish import from Herb. Recording under the moniker, Myppa, he creates organic electronic music that delights with it's child-like nature and simplicity. Each of the nine tracks on "Altruistic Behaviours" are perfectly crafted slices of electronica that employs looped vocals (that recall Sigur Ros), colourful melodies and innovative rythmns.

The album's title track comes across like Sigur Ros clashing with the playful nature of Khonnor, while "Gydppa's" combination of a heart-warming melody, innocent samples and gorgeous string arrangements is magical. The seven minute long "Ledesma", meanwhile, points to an Album Leaf influence, with a stuttering rythmn and hazy tones that builds eventfully for its duration, before subsiding into the next track, "Kindergarten".

"Kindergarten", itself, is the album's best track and is a little surprising given the playful nature throughout the rest of "Altruistic Behaviours". A slow moving ambient passage, that consists of ethereal drones and some chiming sounds, it's repetitive nature will soon cast a hypntoic spell over the listener. Giving a rather tranquil impression to the end of this album.

"Altruistic Behaviours" is another lovely release from Herb Recordings, its childlike naivety is part of Myppa's charm and has you wondering if Martin Czajka really is that little cartoon child on the cover of the album.

Rating - 78%

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Three Free Mp3's

2007-04-01T13:07:00.001+01:00

Over the last couple of days, there has been an outbreak of free and legal mp3's surfacing on the net, that warrants this post:

Phon°noir

Firstly, Berlin-based Phon°noir, who mixes introspective guitar work with inventive programming, has his track "Slowdown" available for download. His album "Putting Holes Into October Skies" featured in my top 20 albums of 2006 last year. The artist also known as Matthias Grübel, is also putting the finishing touches to his 2nd album, which is due out in May 2007.

"Slowdown" mp3 - Phon°noir

d_rradio

Due to a production mix-up with Narc Magazine, d_rradio's track "Way Out", said to be featuring on their forthcoming new album, the band have uploaded the proper version of the song. The band felt that if anyone was to hear the Narc Mag version, they would get the worng impression of d_r's sound. So, every cloud really does have a silver lining!.

"Way Out" mp3 - d_rradio

Godspeed You Black Emperor!

Last, but certainly not least, a demo from the enigmatic Godspeed You! Black Emperor has spread across the web. It is not known if it is new material or an older recording, but is worth downloading just for the fact that it is Godspeed. Let's hope they return from their self-imposed exile.

"Untitled Demo" mp3 - Godspeed You! Black Emperor

Glasgow Barrowlands

2007-03-31T15:38:00.000+01:00

I have always maintained, that Glasgow's Barrowlands Ballroom is the best venue on the planet. I have witnessed countless gigs in that venue and it seems to bring something special out of each band who performs there. It seems I am not the only one who shares these sentiments, in a recent interview with Pitchfork, LCD Soundsystem's, James Murphy, revealed why he loves the ancient venue so much:

"It fits about 2,000 people, but it's completely square and the audience there is so amazing. The only thing I can compare it to, if you played a big festival or you played a huge arena rock show, and you're a band who's just getting to be that size, so the audience is still really down, and there's about 2,000 people in this square right in front of the stage losing their marbles, it's basically like the pit of a big show, and if you just got rid of everybody else, that's the Glasgow Barrowland. Literally, from the front to the back it's people totally paying attention. It's a suspended floor, so when people jump up and down it bounces, it gives, it's like a big roller rink. It's amazing, and Glasgow's the best place on the planet to play a rock show, period."

I'm not going to argue, I now cannot wait for the recently announced Slint show at this venue. Read this review from Arcade Fire's recent performance there.

Grinderman Vs Zane Lowe

2007-03-31T15:19:00.000+01:00

Following on from the MTV post below, here is their golden-boy presenter in action, interviewing Nick Cave and his Grinderman collective. Some of Zane Lowe's questions and observations are ridiculous, talk about completely missing the point. The band look completely embarrassed. It's time to get Rob Da Bank on TV.

Best quote: "I hear a bit of Ziggy Stardust on this record". Where exactly?.

On another note, I should have a review of Grinderman soon.

120 Minutes

2007-03-31T14:37:00.000+01:00

Before last night, I can't remember the last time I sat down to watch MTV. Gone are the glory days of shows like Ray Cokes, Alternative Nation and Headbangers Ball. Instead, we are lumped with Zane Lowe and his annoying accent (and questions) and NME charts. Even the institution that is 120 Minutes has shunted to the small hours of the morning on MTV2. Easily the best show MTV has to offer, last night's viewing offered songs by Minotaur Shock, Juana Molina, M83 and Schneider TM. Not exactly media-freindly music, but far more interesting nontheless. A couple of videos caught my attention and are definitely worth checking out.

Kling Klang : "Heavydale" (Rock Action Records)

First up, is Liverpool based 'future rockers', Kling Klang. Signed to the Mogwai owned Rock Action Records, I love this mix of Black Sabbath guitars and psychedelic Kraftwerk synths. I always remember Mogwai saying they would only sign bands that didn't sound like them, well Kling Klang sound like no-one else. I'll be checking them out during the Triptych Festival.

Cornelius : "Fit Song" (Warner)

I've actually heard better from Japanese virtuoso, Cornelius, than "The Fit Song", especially on his colourful 2001 album "Point". But the promo video for this is tremendous and definitely the product of having a major label budget at his disposal.

Kings Of Leon : "On Call" (RCA)

You may find this is a surprising inclusion, considering what I normally listen to. But, you can't beat a bit of classic, melodic rock'n roll, especially when it is done in such a perfect way. This Kings of Leon track reminds me slightly of The Pixies, especially that thumping bassline and is taken from their new album "Because Of The Times"

Engine 7 : Songs For Children Mix

2007-03-30T15:56:00.000+01:00

It seems with the nice change in weather has brought about more than sunshine, as it appears to be the mix season as well. Engine7 has sent the first of three exclusive guest mixes for Boring Machines and it's entitled, "Songs For Children". This ties in nicely with the theme of his forthcoming album, "Me, But Perfect", and also serves as an insight into the music that has inspired him of late.

Tracklisting

1. Wake Up Wake Up - Lullatone
2. Window - The Album Leaf
3. Ba Ba - Sigur Rós
4. Silent Park - Yasushi Yoshida
5. Nightly Cares - Múm
6. Goodnight, I Love You - Engine7

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Ben Frost : "Theory of Machines" (Bedroom Community Label)

2007-03-29T18:05:00.000+01:00

Icelandic music seems to be taking over my life at the moment. Ok, Ben Frost was born in Melbourne so isn't technically Icelandic. He has, however, lived in Reykjavik for over two years now and some of that Scandinavian magic must have rubbed off in him. It was in Iceland's capital that he met "Theory of Machines" collaborator Valgeir Sigurðsson. Coming to prominence through the severely limited "Steel Wound" LP, and thrust into the limelight via remixing duties for Björk, Frost has created "Theory of Machines" and it is a jaw-dropping effort that ambigiously mixes noise-rock, dirty and distorted electronica and apocalyptic synths. Released on the close-knit Bedroom Community label, Boomkat recently hailed "Theory of Machines" as 'the future of electronic music'. For once believe the hype, Frost is the real deal.

The 10 minute title track sets the tone immediately, summoning Aphex Twin's non-conformist spirit as slow drones drip from your sound system, they are over-lapped with cascading string arrangements. Layers upon layers of distortion are heaped into the mix, like the sound of a million machines about to wage war on all mankind. We get our first taste of Frost's fragmented programming abilities around the 5 minute mark with some immense hazardous, broken beat work. "Stomp", meanwhile, comes across like Autechre on anti-deperessants. Its all clicks and cuts and dynamic basslines. Some Thurston Moore style lo-fi guitar work edges its way in with those fragmented beats, before subsiding. Leaving us with an ominous sounding build-up of synths that evokes images of barren wastelands.

The stunning "We Love You Michael Gira", a tribute to the Young God Records owner (and former Swans member), follows and displays Frost's arbitary approach to making music. The rule book is completely torn-up and shredded during this pioneering track. Ill-boding synths slowly unfurl as obscured noises and bleeps float around them. A lonely piano note can be heard in the distance as ear-shredding static scratches across the mix. Those scratches develop into crashing waves of ruptured beatwork and interference, like the sounds of ghosts trying to break free from your sound system.

The noise-rock interlude of "Coda" offers only a brief respite, as "Forgetting You Is Like Breathing Water" throws the listener straight back in, head first. Returning to the dark and epic terrains of previous tracks, it comes across like a more subdued version of that collaboration between Japan's Mono and World's End Girlfriend. The brass section towards the end provides a fitting climax to this spectacular album.

In the early 90's Autechre redefined the boundaries of electronica, through "Incunabula". With "Theory of Machines", Frost has smashed those boundaries into a million little pieces.

Rating - 93%

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Textura Returns

2007-03-29T12:21:00.000+01:00

After a short period on the sidelines, the wonderful Textura monthly webzine has returned with a fanatastic issue featuring in-depth label profiles of the wonderful Dynamophone and the equally superb, Hidden Shoal. Furthermore, there are a number of reveiws that have featured here. As well as an extensive look at the latest Dynamophone releases, reviews of Explosions In The Sky, Tobias Lilja, Arc Lab, SubtractiveLAD and Ölvis can be found there.

But of particualr interest here, is the colourful descriptions and mp3's of Wes Willenbring, Slow Dancing Society and Sankt Otten from the Hidden Shoal catalogue. All three albums are strong contenders for my end of year list and are most definitely worth checking out. The following paragraphs and mp3's can be found at the excellent Textura, along with some samples from the likes of A Lily, Pornopop, Stars of the Lid and Pole:

Sankt Otten (Textura Review)

Sankt Otten's "Wir koennen ja Freunde bleiben" emerges from its dark opening moments, casts its gaze upon the open plains and ponders the surrounding expanse as guitars both sing a soft lullaby and build into slow-burning swells.

Sankt Otten: "Wir koennen ja Freunde bleiben"

Slow Dancing Society (Textura Review)

In "The Delicate Sound of Silence," Drew Sullivan coaxes a fragile and stately beauty from a modest collection of whistling tones, voice samples, and guitar flutter. Sullivan masterfully shapes the material into a captivating ambient setting that comes as close as possible to translating a most peaceful sleep state into aural form.

Slow Dancing Society: "The Delicate Sound of Silence"

Wes Willenbring (Textura Reveiw)

The San Francisco-based Willenbring generates alluring vignettes from a base palette of piano and guitars, blurring the lines between them until the reverberant product of their union drifts like a slow-motion plume of smoke through the quietude of an empty cathedral

Wes Willenbring: "Sometimes"

Boring Machines Mix #2

2007-03-28T21:57:00.000+01:00

Tonight, I was occupied watching Italy outclass Scotland during their European Championship qualifier. For those of you that care, Italy, as expected, won without breaking sweat really. While I was watching this game, I uploaded a little mix I made a while ago. Where as last months featured a lot of orchestral and cinematic sounds, this one is geared more to the more synthetic aspects music. This mix is also designed to get more euphoric as it progresses.

1. "I Am To You" - A Lily (Dynamophone)
2. "Center" - Pornopop (Dynamophone)
3. "DEA" - The American Dollar (Self-Released)
4. "Glass Shattering Under Water" - Seven Ark (Neo Ouija)
5. "Water House" - Zerova (Herb Recordings)
6. "Shake Down The Stars" - D_rradio (Static Caravan)
7. "Fukkaj'o" - Zerova (Herb Recordings)
8. "Panik" - Lope (Self-Released)
9. "How Life Was Meant To Be Lived" - Slow Dancing Society (Hidden Shoal)
10."Traces" - Philipp Weigl (Legoego)
11."May" - Bit|Bin (Herb Recordings)
12."Glass Rod" - Solipsism (Herb Recordings)
13."Tempertantrum" - Engine7 (Herb Recordings)
14."Bum and Kiran" - Sensiva (Sensotech)

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Ölvis : "Bravado" (Resonant)

2007-03-27T20:39:00.000+01:00

While his Icelandic counterparts Sigur Ros and Prince Valium are keen to explore the more glacial aspects of music, Örlygur Þór Örlygsson prefers to make music that is a little more out of this world. "Bravado", his third album as Ölvis (pronounced Elvis) is littered with mantra-like vocals and showered in dense and sparkling instrumentation. Over the course of the album, Örlygsson provides some hypnotic and and alluring melodies throughout the 14 instrumentals and vocal tracks.

Following on form the critically-acclaimed, "Blue Sound", "Bravado" reads like a 'who's who' of contemporary Icelandic music with members of Amina, Sigur Ros and The Apparat Organ Quartet cropping up throughout as guest musicians. "Dream On" is a grandiose track that evokes images of vast, starlit skies. Touching into the neo-psychedelic region occupied by Mercury Rev, it is a majestic instrumental.

"Go Ape" follows and particulalrly highlights Orlygsson's rich, booming baritone. Which is, in turn, soundtracked by playful percussion and reverbed-drenched instrumentation. Lyrically. "Bravado" is said to touch on his disillusionment with global capitalism and the USA's attempts to control everything. Although for most listeners it would be hard to tell, as 95% of this album is sung in his native Icelandic. Meanwhile, song titles such as "Vincent Price", "War Chant" and "Song For Love" don't give too much away either. I'm not sure how much of an influence, if any, San Francisco-based dream-rockers Bethany Curve were during the recording process, but on "Wake Up Now" the gothic tinged vocals, slowly unfolding melody and echo-drenched sounds recall some of their finest moments.

Stand-out tracks?, there are many, this album is consistently strong. Although there are some fine moments at the start, the best tracks seem to be clustered towards the end. "Fight The Power" is notable for the Richard Ashcroft style vocals, albeit an Icelandic version. But it is Örlygsson ability to marry a simplisitc, but pleasing, melody with mechanical percussion that makes this one so appealing. Special mention must also be given to the sprawling album closer, "Merge With The Infinite". A spectacular ending that veers between an immense cinematic soundscape and some prog-rock influenced percussion.

Over the course of 14 tracks (or just over 45 minutes), Ölvis constructs dense and colourful music on "Bravado" that glides through several genres. Dream pop, psychedelia, space-rock and even hints of electronica and post-rock are all touched on, yet there is something remarkably distinctive about his sound. Easily one of the most listenable albums so far this year. If Sigur Ros are everyone's favourite Icelandic friend, then Ölvis is their slightly weird, spaced-out cousin.

Rating = 88%

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Hauschka

2007-03-26T20:32:00.000+01:00

Look in your record collection and it is more than likely that you will own at least one album from the Fat Cat catalogue. The UK label has an oustanding reputation for releasing some of the most innovative and emotive music over the last decade or so. From Animal Collective, through Mum and to Sigur Ros, Fat Cat has an illustrious history.

Hauschka is one of their latest signings and is the work of German composer, Volker Bertelmann. Much like his labelmate, Max Richter, Bertelmann's music involves the exploration of the piano in and around a classical structure. However, where as Richter creates lush, expansive soundscapes, Bertelmann prefers to 'manipulate' his instrument in a variety of unique ways.

Unique sounds are created by employing techniques such as wedging the piano strings with leather, felt and rubber or placing corks on the strings. Bertelmann stetches out notes and tones by preparing the piano hammers with aluminium foil and 'weaving guitar strings around the piano's guts'.

Such innovation led to "Room To Expand", released on February 19th 2007, through Fat Cat. A rare experiment in modern music, expanding on the template of classical piano, melding it with cutting edge sound manipulation. This release was also given album of the week over at Boomkat.

"Lipstick Race" mp3 - Hauschka

Portishead : "Wandering Star" (live)

2007-03-25T17:24:00.001+01:00

Pitchfork reported this a couple of weeks ago. But here is some incredible footage of Portishead performing a stripped down version of "Wandering Star" in their local!

Amazing video

now all we need is that promised third album!

And just because Beth Gibbons is one of the most incredible female vocalists of all time. Here she is performing "Mysteries", from here under-rated solo album, "Out of Season".

Helios : "Inherit The Wind"

2007-03-25T14:17:00.000+01:00

Inherit the Wind

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Helios (aka Keith Keniff), whose music is currently released through the wonderful Type Records, has ab Ep release planned for the Summer. Details are very tentative at the moment, with no tracklisting or release date as of yet. Although, it is not known if the video above will feature on this Ep, it may hint at Keniff's fututre direction.

Furthermore, you can stream a new composition, entitled "Soft Collared Neck", which experiments with some hushed vocals.

Yellow6 - "Realisation"

2007-03-24T11:00:00.001Z

The kind folk at Resonant have sent through a copy of Yellow6's forthcoming "Painted Sky", from which "Realisation" is taken from.

2 years in the making, "Painted Sky" is said to 'strip away the many layers of previous outings, resulting in a collection of melodic, organic guitar and piano soundscapes backed with subtle percussion'.

On first listen this one will appeal to fans of Labradford and wintry feeling ambient passages. Opuszine has already beaten me to it, read their review of "Painted Sky" here.

The Tallest Man on Earth - "It will Follow the Rain"

2007-03-23T18:32:00.001Z

What a cool video, this Swedish-based musician was "The Second Tallest Man on Earth until that REALLY tall guy died".

Influenced by Bob Dylan, Nick Drake and Crocodile Dundee, this is rather excellent.

Check his myspace.

Beautiful Lunar Landscape : "Alone In This Dark Romantic Night" Ep (Self-Released)

2007-03-23T17:11:00.000Z

Right from the opening strains of this Ep, it is clear that there is something special about French collective Beautiful Lunar Landscape. Recalling the start of King Crimson's "21st Century Schiziod Man", eerie drones and organ sounds drfit from speaker to speaker during the intro of the incredibly titled opening track, "Projected In This Beautiful Lunar Landscape Imagining This Glorious Chaos As A Ghost Of Myself". It soon morphs into a sprawling, interplanetery guitar experiment. The frenzied percussion and spookish theremin sounds launch this track into another dimension. As the band slowly lessen the pace and gradually move into an ambient passage, you are left wondering, did that really just happen?.

But then, further investigation into the Bordeaux-based band reveals that BLL are an immensely talented bunch. It is difficult to pinpoint their sound, there is so much going on throughout the four mini-epic's on this Ep. For a start there is the gargantuan waves of distorted guitar work, that nods to Radiohead's Jonny Greenwood, which literally can rattle your speakers, while there is a disitinctive Portishead influence which weaves it's way throughout the whole Ep. Then there is the appreciation of the dynamics of all those great shoegazer bands, while swirling mellotron sounds recall 70's prog rock bands, you know the one's it is supposedly not cool to like anymore.

Have you ever wanted to hear what Portishead would sound like melded with a shoegazer aesthetic?. Well listen to the title track of this ep and wait the whole five and a half minutes to hear some of the most incredible double kick-drum percussion this side of Slayer's Dave Lombardo.

It is not just the instrumentation that points to a progressive influence, though. Song titles such as "Crystalised, Facing This Empty Screen I Wish The Film Couls Never End", suggests more than one band memeber has a fondness for Yes albums or those wonderful kaleidoscopic double gatefold sleeve LP's from the 70's. The track itself, is a slow and brooding effort, that soon cuts to some male/female vocal parts and then to a mystical sounding spoken word part. It all soon subsides with some Greenwood inspired guitar chops and then falls into a monolithic assault of ear-shredding distortion and powerful percussion. It is absolutely, spell-bindingly brilliant.

Final track, "Tomorrow, I'll Be Born Inside An Eternal Beginning", changes tact relying on mournful synths and tentative guitar work to start with. When the drums do kick in, along with a space station style countdown sample, you are left mesmerised by the expansive and wide-reaching nature of the sounds BLL can create.

At 25 minutes long and spanning just 4 tracks, Beautiful Lunar Landscape have created some breath-taking moments. In fact some bands have had 10 year long careers and still not came close to hitting some of these heights. It is a travesty that a band this talented and creative are unsigned because music this good deserves to be propelled skywards and beyond.

Rating = 84%

Also, a quick thanks to Sean, at I Work At Initech, who pointed this great band out to me

Kieran Hebden & Steve Reid

2007-03-23T10:07:00.000Z

"Tongues" is the latest collaboration between electronica whizzkid, Kieran Hebden, and legendary jazz percussionist, Steve Reid. Their third album for Domino Records and their fourth collaboration altogether, "Tongues" is a much more accesible and structured album than the previous "Exchange Sessions" volumes.

The aesthetics remain the same and there is still that wonderful improvisational edge. But this album flows better, with a series of shorter, more dynamic tracks. A result of extensive touring and performing to a wide range of audiences, Reid has a telepahtic understanding with his "new found musical soulmate", Hebden.

Hebden, of course, is held in high esteem for his work as Four Tet and through his band, Fridge. Steve Reid is a little more mysterious to us younger folk. He has honed his dazzling drumming skills over the last 40+ years, performing with greats such as Sun Ra, James Brown and Miles Davis.

Thankfully, "Tongues" still encompasses those first-take, instant experiemtns form previous efforts. But it is more channelled, more explosive and a little less exploratory. Perhaps Reid & Hebden have arrived at their perfrct sound. Reid's dazzling percussion is perfectly complimented by the colourful notes, tones, noises, bleeps and effects from Hebden's distinctive palette. It is the sound of two influential musicians ,from their respective generations, coming together to create music that is compelling and inspirational.

"The Sun Never Sets" mp3 - Kieran Hebden and Steve Reid

Mew - "She Came Home For Christmas"

2007-03-22T22:02:00.001Z

I've never known what to make of Denmark's Mew, I absolutely loved these tracks when I first heard them, but other songs sounded quite bland to me. However, both of the tracks in the vidoes below gave me thr same feeling I get when listening Radiohead and Sigur Ros. Anyway, Elastic Heart has some new live mp3's from Mew's performance at SXSW.

Mew - "Am I Wry? No"

2007-03-22T22:01:00.001Z

Fridge

2007-03-21T22:07:00.000Z

Fridge are one of those bands that helped shape my own musical journey while growing up. Releasing the, quite frankly, amazing 2001 album "Happiness" in my late teens certainly helped develop my taste for experiments between the rock and electronic worlds. I regard that record as highly as Radiohead's "Kid A" or Labradford's "Praizion". Each of those records have influenced me in some way or another throughout the years and are responsible for what I now consider some of my favourite music of all time.

But to the band themselves, they are probably better known in some circles, for their side-projects, than their ground-breaking main project. A 6 year hiatus has made sure of that. One member, Adem Ilhan, spent most of that time recording in the electronic/folk field, including the critically acclaimed "Homesongs", while Kieran Hebden is more famously recognised as Four Tet. If my memory serves me correctly, the remaining member, Sam Jeffers, took some time out to concentrate on his photography studies.

The good news, though, is Fridge will be returning with 5th album, "The Sun", through Temporary Residence in May/June. Thanks to Elastic Heart, who have the finger on the pulse, they have an mp3 available to download. From a personal viewpoint, this is a highly anticipated record and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels this way.

So Fridge are due to return and by the sounds of this mp3 have significantly moved the goalposts again. Eschewing the cut-up guitar, piano and percussion experiments of "Happiness", "Eyelids" is a thundering slice of discordant instrumental rock, with some electronic production flourishes, courtesy of Hebden no doubt. It's more Fugazi than Funkstörung and a tad unexpected. But then Fridge have always been able to confound the critics and baffle their fans. By the time we catch up, they will be off on a completely different tangent.

Head over to Elastic Heart for that mp3

Arcade Fire : "Neon Bible" (Merge Records)

2007-03-20T21:05:00.000Z

How does a band follow up one of the the best and widely acclaimed debut LP's of all time?. If the band in question is Montreal's Arcade Fire, then they would draft in an army of musicians (including a Hungarian orchestra) and an arsenal of weird and wonderful instruments to record the expansive and ambitious "Neon Bible". Released to near mass hysteria worldwide, a debate rages on. Is "Neon Bible" as good as "Funeral", their jaw-dropping debut?. I'm not so sure, but the Canadian collective have given it their best shot, in any case.

Whether you like this album or not, whatever camp you sit in, you cannot deny quirky opener "Black Mirror", complete with Phil Spector style wall of sound production techniques, is a brilliant slice of euphoric rock. Featuring, the soon to be immortal line, "Mirror, mirror on the wall, show me where them bombs will fall", imagine tens of thousands of fans chanting this along with Win Butler on a muddy festival field. Sounding like an amalgamation of David Byrne, John Lydon and Elvis, the beanpole frontman has the charisma to be one of the great rock n'roll stars.

"Keep The Car Running" was a terrific set opener at Glasgow's Barrowlands last week and is worth mentioning for the use of a hurdy gurdy alone . Such cool instrumentation can be found throughout "Neon Bible", and on this occasion it complements the incessant rythmns that soon give way to a hugely infectious chorus. "Intervention", meanwhile, kicks off with a dramatic blast of church organ, as wailing guitars, twinkling glockenspiel and incredible percussion drives this track along. The line "working for the church, when your family dies.." is sure to raise a few eyebrows in bible belt USA.

"Black Wave/Bad Vibrations" is another sensational moment here and initially recalls some sort of dark 80's synth pop track. Trading French and English lyrics, "Black Wave.." soon unfolds into a breathtaking mass of female and male vocal harmonies. Right now, there is no band on the planet that can match music this heavenly.

"Neon Bible" maybe lacks the instant nature of "Funeral", but tracks such as the Hawaiin-tinged "Ocean of Noise" shows the band have tried to vary their sound. In this case it works a treat, with Reggae influenced guitar picking colliding with Summery synths and rolling waves of percussion. It soon developes into a dazzling chorus that transports you to the ocean front, before ending with glorious sounding Mexican horn sounds courtesy of Calexico's Martin Wenk.

However, the reason why "Neon Bible" doesn't quite top "Funeral" for me, is that some of the songs fall flat on their face. The rather dull title track, for example, seems oddly out of place near the start of the record. While "(Antichrist Television Blues)" veers a little too close to Springsteen AOR territory for my liking. Although, if you can get past that horrible comparison, then I suppose it's not so bad.

Thankfully, this is only a minor issue on "Neon Bible" and tracks like "No Cars Go" are utterly sublime. A reworking of the track which was initially found on their self-released ep from a few years ago, this is undoubtedly the album's best moment. With jagged percussion and a driving bassline, the male/female vocal duelling combines brilliantly with lush string and brass arrangements. It seems to encompass everything that makes Arcade Fire so great. Just after the 4 minute mark, the Montreal collective will send you into sheer ecstasy, with possibly the greatest, singalong chant ever put to record. It is half marching band, half stadium rock and potentially song of the year. You cannot help but join in.

Ending with the massive-sounding, soul influenced "My Body Is A Cage", "Neon Bible" is an ambitious attempt by Arcade Fire. Much more varied than "Funeral", the sheer volume of ideas occasionally lessens the impact of certain tracks. But then, it is one of those records that seemS to get better with every listen and soon turns out to be equally as rewarding as their debut. The early 90's belonged to Nirvana, Radiohead soundtracked the millenium and beyond. Perhaps it will be the job of Arcade Fire to take over the mantle as the world's next important band.

Rating - 85%

Alternative Review (1)
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"Black Mirror" mp3 - Arcade Fire

Bury The Sound : "Autumn Magnets" Ep (Self-Released)

2007-03-19T20:14:00.000Z

Since starting this site, nearly a year ago, several young bands have been kind enough to forward some of their material to me for review purposes. There is nothing more exciting than recieving a CD in the post from an undiscovered band. It is a joy to research these bands and I am pleased to say that, more often than not, the music tends to be of high quality. You may remember the Romance of Young Tigers review from December, I still take great pleasure in recommending that wonderful, but genrally undiscovered band, to anybody who will listen.

Melbourne quartet, Bury The Sound, are another band currently on the lookout for a new label and judging by their 3-track Ep, "Autumn Magnets", they won't be waiting too long. Operating in the stratosphere somewhere between early Mogwai and the unpredictable space rock genre, "Autumn Magnets" provides some wonderfully dynamic slabs of instrumental rock. Rich guitar melodies mesh with thundering bass work, while keyboard washes provide a nice psychedelic element throughout. It is all held together by some interesting percussion that recalls the more complex nature of a few post-rock artists.

Although there is nothing particlarly ground-breaking about Bury The Sound's music, it shouldn't matter. Especially when tracks like the powerful opener "What Would One Become" rock harder than Lemmy, Ozzy and Jimmy Page together on a 72-hour Jack Daniels bender. The guitar work here is so thick with melody that it almost floods through your speakers. Using an array of effects, guitarist Tim Clarke has developed a vibrant style. The creamy guitar notes around the 4 minute mark, for example, is testament to this. Building purposefully, with some nice Mogwai style guitar interplay, this track erupts skyward with a massive wall of spacey distortion.

Guitar notes intertwine with some psychedlic synths to open next track "Saratoga", with each note deliberately and delicately urging the band forward. However, rather than go for the predicatable post-rock explosion/crescendo route, the band instead opt to let the track drift out with a space-rock jam that features a gorgeous bass melody that recalls "Ten Rapid"-era Mogwai.

Rounding things off with the Floyd-tinged stylings of "Gemini Unbound", dreamy, reverbed guitars can be heard in the distance while a subdued piano line takes the lead. Once the listener is lulled into a false sense of security, the full band kick into action, proving that Bury The Sound are as tight a unit as they come. The instrumentation, particularly towards the end during those rockier moments, is executed expertly.

All in all, it is impressive stuff from the Australians, encompassing a myriad of their influences, but over the course of the 25 minutes they manage to stamp their own authority over the sound. Their expansive guitar-driven soundscapes shows some real potential, so here's hoping a few record labels sit up and take notice.

Rating - 73%

Efterklang - Jojo (live)

2007-03-19T15:18:00.001Z

Here is a video of "Jojo" another track from Efterklang's promising "Under Giant Trees" Ep (due out on April 2nd). This one is instantly brilliant and this video taken from a performance in Stockholm in November 2005, is truly compelling stuff.

I am hoping there will be some UK live dates later this year, going by this amazing video Efterklang are not to be missed.

I particulary like the hushed vocals and the twinkling sounds and this track seems to encompass some folk traditions.

All of A Sudden, I Can't Wait To See EITS

2007-03-18T19:02:00.000Z

I love this description of Explosions In The Sky....

"Explosions in the Sky is a quartet from Austin, TX making what they call cathartic mini-symphonies. Known for wildly intense live performances, their songs are sprawling, epic pieces that build and evolve, often over a span of ten or more minutes a track. Though decidedly non-commercial, Explosions in the Sky has built a large and loyal following for layering beautifully orchestrated melodies against passionate sonic chaos."

It makes me very impatient to see them again and for the first time since 2003. I missed their show a couple of years ago when they played alongside Four Tet during the Triptych Festival. I still can't get Arcade Fire's jaw-dropping performance from last week out of my head, I am hoping Munaf and co. can match it at next month's gig at the ABC, they have certainly got it in them. If anybody has caught EITS live on thsi tour please let me know how it's going.

In the meantime you can stream performances by Explosions In The Sky and Eluvium in Washington thanks to NPR.

Efterklang

2007-03-18T18:28:00.000Z

When I bought Efterklang's 2004 debut album "Tripper", I at first thought Denmark had found an answer to Iceland's Sigur Ros. Further investigation of the CD revealed, this septet had little in common with them, apart from sharing the same continent. The sounds of "Tripper" were more experimental, less calculated, a little more free in other words. There was no record label pressure, such as Geffen urging Sigur Ros to record the poppy "Takk". "Tripper" featured no fewer than 34 musicians, and provided a sound that no other band has come close to matching.

2007 will be even more productive with an ep due out, which will then be followed by a full-length album. Mark April 2nd in your diaries (or PDA's), it will see the release of a limited (4500 cd's, 1200 vinyl) ep entitled "Under Giant Trees". Available through Leaf and the band's own label, Rumraket, this ep looks set to explore and expand on the musical themes of "Tripper". There's a certain amount of buzz around Efterklang, with several blogs posting about them. So you may have already came across the mp3 of the lead track of the ep. But if you haven't, "Towards The Bare Hill" is well worth a listen. Starting nt unlike labelmate Colleen, almost tribal sounding percussion pushes its way across the mix with some electronic production trickery. Authentic chanting in their native language soon veers this track into unchartered territory. Along with some accordian and brass brand instrumentation, it resembles a Scandinavian version of A Hawk and a Hacksaw.

I will say it is difficult to make sense of it after just a few listens. However, some of my favourite songs have panned out this way. Give this a chance, I am completely hooked. The artwork above, by Nan Na Hvass, is equally impressive.

"Towards The Bare Hill" mp3 - Efterklang

All Angels Gone : "Others As Mirrors"

2007-03-17T12:55:00.000Z

Others as a mirror

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Why these guys aren;t massive is beyond me, read this earlier post.

Thee More Shallows

2007-03-17T10:19:00.000Z

I have been anticipating what San Francsico three-piece Thee More Shallows would do next after a friend passed me some copies of their two previous albums , "More Deep Cuts" and "A History of Sport Fishing", a couple of years ago. Now signed to the ultra-cool Anticon label (13 & God, Themselves, Bracken, SJ Esau etc.) "Book of Bad Breaks is due out on April 24th and is supported by an extensive tour, which will again miss my town of Glasgow!.

Thee More Shallows sound has been described as dark, sinsiter and brooding, but it could also be described as atmospheric and beautiful, such is the quality of their sound. Hushed vocals mingle with melancholic chord chnages and some indie quirkiness that only American bands know how to do. They have the potential to fill the huge void left by Grandaddy and Pavement. Below is a cover of The Temptations "I Can't Get Next To You" from their stop-gap "Monkey Vs Shark" Ep.

"I Can't Get Next To You" mp3 - Thee More Shallows

Who Needs SXSW?

2007-03-16T11:51:00.000Z

When you can witness.....

The Second Coming of christ. tonight at the 13th Note for tronic (preview from Miso)

christ. - initially involved in the hexagon sun project with michael sandison and marcus eoin (Boards of Canada), christopher horne has moved on to produce music under the moniker christ. (easily offended christians please note its short for christopher, not the son of god). producing the 'pylonesque ep' in 2002 and following this up with the superb metamorphic reproduction miracle album the next year, christ. made a massive impact on the electronic scene both in scotland and on the international stage. taking his live set as far a-field as japan, switzerland, france, finland and the sonar festival (barcelona, spain). christ has also been one of the select group of artists to play for john peel at maida vale (twice due to mr peels rare request for an encore). playing out his material from his new album (blue shift emissions) at tronic, you will hear electronica straight out the top drawer this march. mr horne will be taking the stage at approx. 10:00 pm and if you see anyone this month at tronic, this is the act.

edge of the map - an electronic artist that was surrounded in mystery, when he took to the stage, for the tronic album launch last year. a talented musician, who swapped guitar strings for that of synth strings, had never played live under the name 'eotm' before and really stunned everyone that witnessed his live set that night. instantly you can't help being drawn to the warm, deep ambience he creates and driving layered beats, keep his sound flowing, mapping out synthscapes and beautiful musical patterns. influences from the likes of steve reich to underworld are apparent in this electronic wizard's style, thus being the perfect opening act on a great night of electronic music.

keser - have recently had their debut album 'esoteric escape' released by edinburgh based label 'alex tronic records', to which many good things have been said. "there is something rarefied about this ambitious beauty" comparisons made to 'boards of canada' and 'mogwai' are justified, as keser's sound has a beautiful, ethereal depth to it, taking the listener on a hypnotic flight through their utopian world. the escapism starts with delicate ambient strings washed over faint vocals and samples. when live, keser have a dynamic energy full of distorted guitar and crunchy beats backed by some imposing visuals, in all promising to be the perfect support to christ. proving yet again, what exceptional eletronica is out there in scotland waiting to be heard.

dee mond - works under his own label 'pyrate music' and has been at the forefront of the techno/electro scene in edinburgh for many years. an influential dj, normally mixing and mashing up all various styles of dance music - forming his own unique blend of elektrotech. dee mond has fine tuned all musical knowledge and production skills into his music and energetic live sets. having also previously released two albums and just recently his new 12" ep 'dee mond', this electronic producer will undoubtedly get the exposure he deserves.
dee mond will end the night, quite fittingly we feel as this electronic demon is sure to leave his mark on the tronic scene

Malajube - "Montreal -40°C

2007-03-15T21:11:00.003Z

This band have been hailed as a better alternative to Arcade Fire. I like the fact they sing in French, but going by this video Malajube seem a little pop-orientated for my tastes

Múm : "Green Grass Of Tunnel"

2007-03-15T21:11:00.001Z

In reference to the Zerova review below. I too love the sounds of Iceland's Múm. This is my favourite track of theirs

Zerova : "I Think We've Lost" (Herb Recordings)

2007-03-14T21:59:00.000Z

Zerova, a Polish quartet, relocated from the pressures of city life to the more rural surroundings of the Polish countryside in Bialystock to record this rather tremendous album. Formed after seeing Mum perform in 2003, Zerova create music much like their Icelandic heroes, but also bring their own unique Eastern European flavour. Laid-back guitar work, pitter patter beats, hazy vocals and glacial keyboard tones combine to make music that sounds like it has been created by little furry creatures, rather than human beings.

I have to be honest here and mention the fact that I could not get past opener "Fukka'jo" the first time I heard this album. It is so infectious that I must have hit the repeat button at least 50 times and this one is easily the most played track on my Itunes. Thae large wave of distorted guitar around the 3 minute mark is magical and works brilliantly with the spluttering beats.

Touching on genres such as post-rock, glitch, electronica and ambient music "I Think We've Lost" is an imaginative and compelling release. There is a certain innocence about the way "Drift" unfolds with understated beats and sweet clarinet notes. Elsewhere, "Unnamed Place" makes use of hazy Khonnor-esque vocals and beats that are so delicate, that they sound like milk bottles clinking together. In fact, the programming throughout is particularly innovative and it is merged with soft electronic notes to give a remarkably polished, but lo-fi sound.

It's difficult to pick a stand-out track, all ten are of the same quality. It might be the inventive bubble-beats of "Today I've Passed The Barn" that catches your attention or the driving Indietronica of "You Won't". But each track is almost irresistable and the result is this exuberant little album. I could easily go on about other tracks such as the beautiful "Crickets" or the chirpy "Water House", but in keeping with the tone of the music of "I Think We've Lost", I'll keep it short and sweet. Just order this album.

Rating - 90%

"Fukka'jo" mp3 - Zerova

Arcade Fire Live @ Glasgow Barrowlands 12/03/07

2007-03-13T20:16:00.000Z

My head is still spinning from a truly outstanding performance by possibly the most talented band out there right now. Every man and his dog knows Arcade Fire these days, but what they might not know is how amazing they are live. No fewer than 10 musicians crammed onto the decent sized Barrowlands stage and performed an absolutely jaw-dropping set that featured the majority of new album "Neon Bible" and all of the great moments from "Funeral". There has been a bit of indifference towards "Neon Bible" in some circles, the general consensus is it's not as good as their excellent 2004 debut "Funeral". But, having seen these songs performed live I would have to argue. The new songs were euphoric, anthemic and utterly spell-binding. Having witnessed A Silver Mt Zion huddled together on stage at the low-key ABC 2 last year, Mogwai's face-shattering volume at Edinburgh's Usher Hall, Radiohead during the OK Computer tour or even Sigur Ros 5 years ago on the very same Barrowlands stage, Arcade Fire more than matched these wonderful gigs with a near legendary performance.

With an unbelieveable amount extra of instrumentation (mandolin, french horns, spine-tingling violins, megaphones, hurdy gurdy and just about everything they could get their hands on) songs like opener "Keep The Car Running" sound far more dynamic in a live setting. The instrument swapping between members was impeccable. The drummer on the opening song would later find himself on guitar during the encore of "Wake Up", having already laid his hand to keyboard duties earlier. Every single musician in Arcade Fire makes a telling contribution at every oppurtunity. It might be one member's attempt to generate feedback sounds from a megaphone or frontman Win Butler's powerful vocals, but every note, tone, drone and chord combines and results in one big massive anthemic wall of sound.

Of the new tracks, "Black Mirror", the dramatic "Intervention", the Hawaiin-flavoured "The Well and The Lighthouse" and the vocal harmonies during "Black Wave/Black Vibrations" all sounded fantastic. Only the album title track, "Neon Bible" was a slight letdown.

But then the best performances were saved for the "Funeral"-era songs. An excellent rendition of "Neighbourhood #1 (Tunnels)", which brought back all the great memories of my stay in Canada a couple of years ago, was followed by the epic "Rebellion (Lies)", complete with that subtle, but delightful chord change in the chorus. A raucous version of "Neighbourhood #3(Power Out)" easily got the longest and loudest response from the crowd that I have ever witnessed in the Barrowlands. It was near hysteria, but this band deserve every ounce of the applause, trust me.

But the best was, undoubtedly, saved for last. With frontman Win Butler soaked in sweat, he somehow summoned extra energy to lead his collective through a magificent version of "Wake Up" for the encore. He was so caught up in the delirium that he lauched his large frame into the crowd, before careering down to the bottom of the venue, in the process being engulfed by hundreds of frenzied Glasweigens. Amidst the pandemonium, its not known if he made it out alive.

All I can say is, Arcade Fire put in easily one of the best performances I have ever had the pleasure of being involved in . Involved is the correct term beause you cannot help but be swept away by those euphoric choruses and incessant, driving beats. There is so much happening onstage that it is impossible to look everywhere. Anybody who does not like this band basically has no soul, in my opinion. Arcade Fire could quite rightly claim to being the best in the business right now, they are certainly a very special band. I paid over the odds to a ticket tout to get into this gig, but in truth Arcade Fire are worth selling your arms and legs to witness. Miss this band at your peril!.

If you want to see Win Butler dive into the crowd, view this video.

Arcade Fire

2007-03-12T23:34:00.000Z

Just back from what is one of the most sensational gigs I have ever been too. I can quite easily say that Arcade Fire's performance at the Barrowlands was one of the best I have ever witnessed. I must recollect my thoughts before the reivew tomorrow

Herb News

2007-03-11T10:34:00.000Z

Here's a couple of points from Herb Recordings latest mailing list update:

Rubens

The U.S release date for the Rubens CD is the 13th April 2007. Fans in the U.S can pre-order the CD now for $14.96 from

www.ear-rational.com

As from next week the Rubens (Review) CD will also be available from Norman Records for £7.95

www.normanrecords.com

~ism from Rubens has also released his "Surface Life" Ep which you can get for free here.

Engine7

The fantastic debut album release by Glasgow's Engine7 is imminent. This album will be released in digital format first and then on CD shortly afterwards. We'll keep you updated with the progress on both formats.

Solipsism "Free Ep" & "No Entry Ep"

Both of these are free downloads that Solipsism have kindly made available. The Free EP is a collection of 4 ambient tracks that were recorded during the "Electricity Flows In Squares" (Review) sessions and the No Entry EP is basically just a collection of 7 tracks that they've recorded over the past two years and not used in any other projects. Please feel free to download and share these out. You can download both eps including artwork here.

Kingbastard

Kingbastard has released a free ep under his "myheadisaballoon" alias. The ep is titled "Hello-Fi" and can be downloaded for free from his artist page at the herb site.

Beautiful Lunar Landscape :"Eternal Beginnings"

2007-03-10T14:52:00.001Z

I recieved the new Ep by French quintet, Beautiful Lunar Landscape, in the post earlier today and on first listen its epic, spacey nature sounds promising. I particuarly like the massive waves of dramatic distorted guitar, which is evidnet in the live performance of "Eternal Beginnings" above.

Surprisingly unsigned, this band incorporate elements of shoegaze, electronica and indie into their swirling, expansive sound. This is how they describe their own sound:

"The rhythm and intensity of M83 with the emotions of Portishead and the Smashing Pumpkins around the time of Adore. The guitars soar around spacious mid-90's British effects whilst the rhythm section harness the power of something altogether a lot darker. The vocals take their influences from anything that the 20th century managed to concoct, taking guidance from folk, rock and blues."

Port-Royal Album Details

2007-03-10T14:18:00.000Z

Resonant have posted a tentative release date for Port-Royal's forthcoming "Afraid To Dance" album. It is due in May 2007. From what I have heard this album sounds absolutely superb and is in line to match the brilliance of their debut "Flares".

Here is the full-tracklisting:

1. Bahnhof Zoo
2. Pauline Bokour
3. Anya: Sehnsucht
4. German Bigflies
5. Deca-Dance
6. Roliga Timmen (Longing Machines)
7. Internet Love
8. Leitmotiv/Glasnost
9. Putin Vs Valery
10. Attorney Very Bad (aka The Worst)

Most Royals fans will have heard "Internet Love" on their myspace page, but you may not be aware that "German Bigflies" can be streamed an Resonant's page, while "Banhoff Zoo" can be heard here.

The American Dollar

2007-03-09T12:29:00.000Z

The American Dollar, a New York-based project, was first recommended to me by Last Days' Graham Richardson a couple of months ago. I found their instrumental sound to be both dynamic and refreshing and earmarked their album "The Technicolour Sleep" for purchase. However, a delay in the release of the album, meant I completely forgot about this band.

The Silent Ballet recently reawakened my interest by including "DEA" (taken from the album) in their last free compilation. Starting off with twinkling glockenspiel notes not unlike Helios' "Velius" track and adding strong, synthetic beats, this song soon lauches into post-rock euphoria. However, it is far from being derivative and represents the cleaner, more pretty side of the instrumental genre.

You can stream some excerpts of the album here.

"DEA" mp3 - The American Dollar

Shamanic Technology : "Doorways" (Herb Recordings)

2007-03-08T22:29:00.000Z

Having described the music of Shamanic Technolgy on these pages as "brilliant anthemic and euphoric electronic music", "Doorways" is an album that I have been anticipating for some time now. A mix up of some sorts at the Herb HQ meant it was delayed for a good few months. But it is now out there and the overall signs are good, it has been worth the wait.

For the uninitiated, Shamanic Technology is the work of Bournemouth based producer Chris Hare and the project was designed to allow him to break free from the shackles of dj'ing in the UK club scene. "Doorways" is his answer to those rigid club rules and is an album in a similar head-nodding vein to labelmates Rubens, only it is presented in a much darker manner.

The crystal clear production and crips beatwork immediately sets this album apart and is testament to the 2 years it took Hare to write and record. Recording as Shamanic Technology has allowed Hare to breathe and develop a largely distinctive sound. Of course, everyone has their influences and "Doorways" vaguely recalls the likes of Plaid, Boards of Canada and even a bit of Amon Tobin.

There is a sense that a lot of thought has went into this album in terms of making a unique sound, with Hare expanding on the template outlined by the aforementioned artists. Psychedlic melodies collide with broken (but clear) beatwork and frequent spoken word samples that gives this album a dynamic aura. More often than not, "Doorways" sounds fantastic.

Last December Herb Recordings donated an mp3 of "Electronic Therapy" to this site for people to sample the mood of the album. It was an excellent choice because it is indicative of Shamanic Technology's overall sound. One of the more accesible numbers, back in December I described it as a track full of "satisfying and snappy beats and urgent synths" and I stand by this statement. It also reinforces the anthemic quality of Hare's music.

"Pathseeker" shows Shamanic Technology in a different light and is more playful in nature. Basing the track around a hazy, floating melody, the meticulous programming provides a perfect backdrop. The crackling beatwork of "mIrRoRs" further enhances Hare's reputation of adept producer, while listening through headphones reveals several subtle enhancements that may go unnoticed on first listen. "Toy Vision", meanwhile, features a twisted toybox melody that soon mutates into a segment of synth bubble melodies and elastic beats. The simple but full-bodied sound quality helps to propel this ambitious number forward.

"Doorways" is a distinctive statement form Shamanic Technology. Amid the gifted production style, clear-cut beats, interesting vocal samples and darkened melodies, a huge amount of ideas are bursting to get out. At times it's playful, elsewhere it's trippy and others it's downright evil sounding. But the overall ambition ensures that "Doorways" remains an eventful experience and it serves to stretch electronica into some uncharted territories.

Rating - 80%

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"Toy Vision" mp3 - Shamanic Technology

Albums of the Year (So Far)

2007-03-07T00:04:00.000Z

This is a completely pointless exercise, other than to determine what my favourite album of 2007 is thus far. However, with just over 2 months down and with a staggering amount of influential artists said to be releasing new material this year, this top 10 will undoubtedly change come the end of December. I have decided to include records that have been reviewed here only, mainly because I haven't managed to catch up with some releases as of yet, most notably Do Make Say Think and Arcade Fire.

1. Tobias Lilja : "Time Is On My Side" (n5md)

2. Slow Dancing Society : "The Sound of Lights When Dim" (Hidden Shoal Recordings)

3. Romance of Young Tigers : Self-titled Ep (Self-Released)

4. Solipsism : "Electricity Flows In Squares" (Herb Recordings)

5. Explosions In The Sky : "All of a Sudden, I Miss Everyone" (Temporary Residence)

6. Wes Willenbring : "Somewhere Someone Else" (Hidden Shoal Recordings)

7. SubtractiveLAD : "No Man's Land" (n5md)

8. Sankt Otten : "Wir Koennen ja Freunde Bleiben" (Hidden Shoal Recordings)

9. ((Konntinet)) : "... If Anything Should Happen" (Self-Released)

10. Rubens : "Carnivalesque" (Herb Recordings)

Prince Valium : "Andlaus" (Resonant)

2007-03-06T20:22:00.000Z

Thanks to Sigur Ros and their tremendous recorded output, anything that has even a vague link to Iceland has me producing my credit card to online distributors without even stopping think about it. So you can imagine my disappointment when I wasn't overly impressed by this effort, by the Icelandic Prince Valium, when it arrived. I bought this album in the first week of January and was completely indifferent to it after the first few listens. For a start, every track seemed to follow the same structure of glacial atmospherics, dark e-bowed guitar and some less than inventive beat programming. In short, I initially found it a tad monotonous For the best part of January and most of February, this sat on my desk gathering dust until I decided to give it one last chance. It was then that it all began to click into place.

Prince Valium is the work of Þorsteinn Konráð Ólafsson, who is also one half of ambient/electronica duo sk/um. Under his Prince Valium guise, Ólafsson creates music that is reminscent of Sigur Ros' polar e-bowed guitar soundscapes and marries it with nostalgic beat work. The overall sound of "Andlaus" is deceptively massive, the echoic atmosphere is such that it sounds as if it was recorded in a large cave of ice.

The first two or three tracks, although pleasant enough slices of post-rock/electronica, glide past without leaving much of an impression. It isn't until the fourth placed "Afsal", that Prince Valium's potential starts to shine through. Melting away the glacial exterior, there is something heart-warming about the shimmering reverbed guitar melody. Combined with soft, synthetic drums, this is "Andlaus'" first moment of real beauty.

Much like Sigur Ros', the music here is expansive and epic. It must be a national requirement for the natives of Iceland to learn how to e-bow a guitar. It seems all Icelandic musicians are at it, but it does seem complement how I imagine the Icelandic landscape. "Tómleikar", a brooding, icy ambient passage contains some of this slow-moving, guitar work, as does "Redecorations In Four Dimensions". Only the latter, adds a touch of melancholy creating a wintry and soothing soundscape.

Having initially labelled "Andlaus" repetitive and boring, it is a pleasure to announce that I have been completely won over by this album and "Burning My B.A" is one of the tracks that turned it. It sounds as if it was recorded deep somewhere in the Arctic, the stuttering beatwork, wind sounds and booming melody soon envelopes you in frosty blanket of sound. "Guð Blessi Þig", the final track on the album, makes a mockery of my attempts to brand this album as repetitive. Completely changing tact, swirling mellotron sounds soon develop into an eerie circus style melody, the beats are a throwback from sometime around the mid-80's, recalling some of Vangelis' work. It is a sinister end to "Andlaus", but ultimately a brilliant one.

You have two choices with "Andlaus": Firstly, you can be initially pretentious like me and brand this album as poor man's post-rock/electronica, without giving it a proper chance. Or you can let the music unfurl at its intended glacial pace and embrace its ice-cool charms, crystalised melodies and some of the finest e-bowed guitar work this side of "Takk".

Rating - 73%

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4 of a Kind - March

2007-03-05T19:37:00.000Z

This post was initially meant to be a monthly event, but I kind of got side-tracked with end of year lists and album reviews. However, I have decided it is time for it to resurface and have collected together exclusive (and legal) mp3's from four very talented artists who, in their respective fields, are producing some excellent music. There is one common thread between these artists though, they all operate with the same degree of emotion.

Talkingmakesnosense

A member of Scotland's Benbecula collective, Talkingmakesnosense is the work of Dom Dixon. Influenced by the likes of Labradford, Mogwai and the Constellation bands, he creates sounds that are instantly compelling and highly emotive. These "experiments" are based around sounds generated from computers, analogue tape and a number of acoustic and electronic instruments. Loose reference points include the organic sounds of n5md's SubtractiveLAD. The mp3 below is taken from his limited edition CD-R, "Surroundings" which has been described as a "warm flowing album with plenty of emotive qualities". Dixon is also a member of Genaro and is currently recording a debut for Benbecula Records under this guise, as well as recording a follow up to "Surroundings".

"Subtract The Sky" mp3 - Talkingmakesnosense.

GP~00

The strangely named GP~00 hails from the United Kingdom and his minimalist approach to making music ensures that it is an intriguing listen. Taking his cues from the likes of Earth, JK Broadrick and The Tribes of Neurot, the artist also known as Adam W. Flynn, merges his slow-burning sound with some melancholic guitar work reminiscent of Radiohead's later work. He also has a novel approach to recording and perfecting the right sound, in some cases using strong fans to oscilate the strings of several guitars (which are equipped with different guages). This in turn creates a "mini 3-piece guitar orchestra" that complement the brooding drones and hypnotic soundscapes. Flynn has now completely abandoned synths and computer based programmes, in favour of manipulating instruments and experimenting with sounds. Around the 3 minute mark of "Trains" (mp3 below) it will all become clear, this is one talented individual. His forthcoming album, entitled "i" is expected to contain minimalist guitar driven pieces that range from light to very dark. For more information see his record label Forgotten Empire.

"Trains" mp3 - GP~00

Innocent Civilian

Possibly named after that infamous fake Radiohead track that surfaced on the web a couple of years ago, Innocent Civilian is the solo project of Eerie Days' Espen Ludvisgen. Based in Oslo, Norway, "Flown" grabbed my attention immediately upon hearing it on myspace. Ludvigsen's vocals recall Thom Yorke both in tone and production. Listen to the way the different harmonies float together and merge to create this calm, reflective track. Claiming to be influenced equally by the Norweigen landscape, the aurora borealis and "world leaders playing with their toys", Innocent Civilian will appeal to fans of Radiohead, Stars of the Lid and The White Birch.

"Flown" mp3 - Innocent Civilian

Engine7

Regular readers here will know I have been a fan of Engine7 for a while now, his "Hope Street" ep was one of the first reviews I attempted for this site, while I have tried to get along to as many of his live shows as possible. Having developed his dark and gritty style of organic electronica by cutting his teeth at netlabel level (12rec and Legogo), late last year the ever-impressive Herb Recordings saw his potential. The result is "Me, But Perfect", two years in the making and with each beat and each chiming tone strategically placed, this album deserves to propel Engine7 into the limelight. Encompassing shoegaze, ambient, downtempo and electronica the amount of variety on the album is staggering. Minor issues aside (artwork etc) Herb are almost ready to release this little gem. In the meantime, Engine7 hasn't forgotten his roots and has contributed this exclusive remix of, 12rec contemporary, Crepusculum's "Anachronism".

"Anachronism" (Engine7 Twilight Mix)mp3 - Engine7/Crepusculum

Wes Willenbring : "Somewhere Someone Else" (Hidden Shoal Recordings)

2007-03-04T15:43:00.000Z

Walking to the train station one chilly Saturday afternoon, the previous night's excess ensured that my head felt as if it had been trampled on by an elephant. Such was my hangover, music was the last thing that I needed. However, the walk to the station is quite boring, so I decided to load Wes Willenbring's "Somewhere Someone Else" onto my Ipod and with seconds of album opener "Aperture" the pain in my head seemed to subside. It didn't matter that ferocious looking rain clouds were forming overhead, everything at that moment made perfect sense.

Wes Willenbring recently moved to San Francisco where he has created this gentle and multi-textured album of atmospheric piano and guitar based pieces. Percussive elements are completely eschewed in favour of soft piano tones, warm drones and beautiful guitar work. Bringing to mind artists such as The Dead Texan, Labradford and Eluvium, Willenbring has managed to add something new to this genre.

The music here slowly unfurls, while layers of differing melodies are carefully added. The shimmering beauty of "As You Fade Away" is a prime example of this, two or three drone-melodies float together while softly plucked guitar notes intertwine. It's an intriguing combination that seems to take its cues from the wall-of-sound approach of bands like My Bloody Valentine. "Small Reminders" helps to fill the gaping hole left by the absent Labradford. Dripping with melancholic guitar work, each note and tone is deliberately placed. You don't notice the lack of precussion, the hypnotic instrumentation ensures that.

It is hard to pinpoint exactly what places one ambient album over the next, but with "Somewhere Someone Else" you can make no mistake. The vast, luxuriant soundscapes transport you to another world. "Reverie", for example, starts with reverbed guitar work that soon meshes with unearthly drones. Within seconds you become immersed in its thick, liquid sounds. It becomes apparent that the only way to experience this album properly, is through your headphones and at full volume.

It's hard to pick a favourite track here, such is the quality of each composition. Every single track provides an alluring listen and Willenbring's meticulous attention to detail catapults this album ahead of its peers. At a push, I would pick penultimate track "Lost Illusions" as my favourite. It is four minutes of pure ambient joy. This cerebral effort features some of the nicest guitar plucking I have heard so far this year, it's brooding and nocturnal again recalling Labradford. It moves at almost glacial pace.

Hidden Shoal are fast carving out a niche for themselves in the ambient/electronica market. Following on from Slow Dancing Society's "The Sound of Lights When Dim", Willenbring's "Somewhere Someone Else" is a tremendous affair of restrained, multi-layered and hypnotic soundscapes.

Rating - 87%

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Not Suitable For A Saturday Hangover...

2007-03-03T12:48:00.000Z

T.F.J.L.I.D.

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Hers's a video of Take A Worm For A Walk Week, taken from their self-titled 13 minute, 15 track album.

Arc Lab : "No Spectre" (n5md)

2007-03-02T00:19:00.000Z

Toronto is a city that has a place in my heart. Having spent several months there in 2005. immersed in its cultural diversity, laid-back atmosphere and friendly people, I returned for a visit late last year. It was during this brief holiday I first came across Torontonian down-tempo electronica producer Arc Lab, aka Medard Fischer. I stumbled across a rather cool record shop, Penguin Music, whose sole reason for existence, it seemed, was to cater for my tastes. It had a wall for recommended releases and I left with several shiny new cd's. One of those cd's was Arc Lab's "Nineteen Floors" and although the album wasn't particulalrly ground-breaking, it certainly piqued my interest.

Fast forward to 2007 and Arc Lab has had his new record "No Spectre" released by n5md. Firstly, I would like to nominate this album for having the best cover of the year so far. It marginally beats Tobias Lilja's evil raven eye cover, with remarkable close-up of obscured tree leaves that seem to emit more shades of green than I thought was possible. It hints at an organic sound on "No Spectre", but nothing could be further from the truth.

The press release for this states that n5md have returned to their roots with "No Spectre" and it is a predominantly machine made release, save for the occasional female vocals which crop up now and again. It is a fairly consistent effort from Fischer and he has developed some very well-honed programming skills. The production and beatwork are crisp and precise here, while the fresh synth textures and chiming melodies provide some nice flourishes. But, there is a nagging feeling that this is a lab-based production and it lacks the emotional depth of (previous n5md releases) SubtractiveLAD's "No Man's Land" or Last Days "Sea". At over an hour long it feels cloned and repetitive in places, treading over well worn paths.

But then, an album doesn't have to be ground-breaking to be enjoyable. Opener, "I'm All Vectors" is a refreshing slice of downtempo electronica statting with a couple of minutes of oriental sounding chimes, that build with static sounds before floating beats emerge in the mix. However, a number of tracks employ this strategy and the lack of variety soon detracts from Fischer's obvious production skills.

As a stand alone release, some of the songs on "No Spectre" could turn a few heads. "Versions" features cool robotic programming and chiming bell melodies, that are wrapped around with guazy synths. The muffled sample of people chatting at some bar is a nice touch before those crisp beats come back into the fray. "So Much For No Surprises", meanwhile, offers a respite from the chimes and lightweight beats. It has a rougher edge to it, even bordering on the sinister sounding. The beats are more forceful and particularly inventive and the harpsichord style melody towards the end is gorgeous.

Things pick up a little towards the end and tracks like "Plays Tim Arndt" falls into an excellent segment of uptempo beatwork, throbbing basslines and twinkling synths. While, "The Past" features some alluring female vocals, that gives the album a much-needed human touch.

"No Spectre" is by no means a poor release, any fan of the likes of Arovane, Donato Wharton or Autechre will undoubtedly enjoy this. But, given the quality of previous n5md albums, something doesn't quite click into place. It lacks the emotional impact we have come to expect from the innovative label and while it is carefully constructed and expertly produced, it is a liitle too synthetic for my tastes.

Rating - 65%

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Battles - "Atlas"

2007-03-01T21:47:00.003Z

A link to this video by New York supergroup, Battles, appeared in my inbox earlier tonight from Warp Records. A far cry from the halycon days of experimental electronica (Aphex Twin, Boards of Canada, Autechre etc), Warp now boasts a diverse roster that includes Battles, Maximo Park, Gravenhurst and blog-darlings Grizzly Bear.

Battles feature ex-members of Don Caballero, Helmet and Tomahawk. They are (in)famous for their intense live shows and expert percussive elements. New album "Mirrored" is due on May 14th and will be backed with an extensive tour.

"Atlas", the first single, seems like a different direction for the band it's glam, psychedleic, rock and electro all rolled into one. I can safely say I have never heard anyhthihg like this before

Bestival 2007

2007-03-01T20:24:00.000Z

It's only March yet festival fever seems to be upon us. I got a ticket to T In The Park last week and this was followed by the announcement of the full line-up for April's Triptych Festival. Now the annual Bestival returns for 2007, with tickets going on sale tomorrow. An off-shoot of Rob Da Bank's Sunday Best club in London, Bestival, taking place as ever on the Isle of Wight, is possibly the coolest festival on earth. A line-up announcement is expected tomorrow, full details below

"The magical world of Bestival will be returning to Robin Hill Country Park on the Isle of Wight over the weekend of 7th, 8th, 9th September 2007.

Tickets go on sale this Friday when we will also be announcing the first instalment of this year's line up. Bestival curator Rob da Bank has pulled out all the stops and we only wish we could see the looks of joy on all your faces on Friday when you read the news!!!

So this email is just a little heads up… we expect tickets to go like hot cakes after our announcement so we wanted to give our loyal mailing list subscribers a small head start.

Tickets will be on sale from this Friday 2nd March from the following outlets:

Tickets Only:

Ticketline - www.bestival.net / 08700 667753 (inc. Campervan Tickets)

Ticket + Ferry Packages:

Red Funnel – www.redfunnel.co.uk/bestival / 0870 444 88 98

Wightlink - www.wightlink.co.uk/bestival / 0870 582 7744""

Boy In Static : "Where It Ends"

2007-02-28T23:46:00.000Z

Boy in Static - Where it Ends

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I really enjoyed Boy In Static's support slot with 13 & God back in 2005 at Toronto's Lee's Palace. I enjoyed it so much that I have kept a close watch on his development. With one album under his belt already ( "Newborn" which was released by German label Alien Transistor, Boy In Static is set to unleash his next installment of shoegazer guitars and upbeat electronica via Mush Records (Lymbyc System, Pedro, Caural etc). "Violet" is due next may and the video above is of first single. "Where It Ends". Always a generous musician, Boy In Static has also given us the oppurtunity to download the mp3 for free.

His music now seems more melodic and has a certain maturity. The beat-work is, as ever, full-bodied and there some nice string arrangements added to his compositions, that places ths track somewhere between The Notwist and My Bloody Valentine. This could be one of those low-key albums that just surprises everyone.

"Where It Ends" mp3 : Boy In Static

Triptych 2007 Line-Up

2007-02-28T13:00:00.000Z

Scotland's tremendous Triptych Festival has announced its line-up for 2007. To be held between April 25th and 29th in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen, solo performances by Mogwai's Stuart Braithwaite and former Arab Strap frontman Aiden Moffat have already been booked. The line-up isn't as good as last year (Aphex Twin, Mogwai etc), on initial impressions anyway. But I am most certainly looking forward to performances by Pierre Bastien and his robotic orchestra, David Pajo and Alexander Tucker. And, as ever, there will be more than a few hidden gems in there too. Full line-up, film listings and news here.

"Avid Diva" mp3 - Pierre Bastien

Yndi Halda Vinyl Release

2007-02-28T12:26:00.000Z

Yndi Halda's much acclaimed "Enjoy Eternal Bliss" ep will be getting the full vinyl release treatment. Pre-order's of the double LP and shipping will start next week at their American label, Burnt Toast Vinyl. I may order this myself, despite having the CD, as I prefer the earthy sound of vinyl to any other medium.

If you want a CD version, you can get it from their UK label, Big Scary Monsters. This seems as good as time as any, to post the Yndi mp3 that has been in my inbox for a few weeks now. Of course, even people with only a passing interest in post-rock should know who these guys are, such was the impact their (initially) self-released ep made. If you haven't, for some unknown reason, had the pleasure of experiencing this young band, I demand you download the mp3 below.

Back in December, during his top 5 albums of 2006 post, Vic Spanner gave Yndi Halda this magnificent description:

"Three tracks, 45 minutes. Local heroes Yndi Halda's epic E.P. arrived in the form of a personalised hardback copy of "Danger In Deep Space" (a Tom Corbett Space Cadet Adventure), with nature shots inserted by the band, and a note apologising for the delay in sending it (they like to hand make their cds). The music ?: Epic, beautiful, spine chilling, sad and incredible, the world needs some new adjectives for this music. There's a moment exactly ten minutes into "We Flood Empty Lakes" that sounds like a million superheroes flying through the stormy skies at once. Finally, a band worth giving a shit about".

Dash & Blast mp3 - Yndi Halda

Cam Butler - "See (Symphony No.1)" (Pharmacy Records)

2007-02-28T00:02:00.000Z

Cam Butler is the guitarist for acclaimed Australian 3-piece Silver Ray, a touring favourite of Nick Cave. For "See (Symphony No.1)", his 3rd solo outing, Butler has handpicked no fewer than 14 gifted musicians to form his Shadows of Love Orchestra. Each element of the orchestra, be it the strings, guitars, percussion or computer loops, impacts pefectly with Butler's assured guitar work, helping him to realise his dramatic, cinematic vision.

Following on from the likes of The Cinematic Orchestra and The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble, "See (Symphony No.1)" is a grandiose statement full of possibilities that is just begging to picked up for a major Hollywood blockbuster. Over the course of its 6 tracks, the album conveys just about every emotion possible in the movie world.

"Does Your River Run Deep?" comes across as if it was the opening titles to Robert Ludlum's Bourne series. There's a real mysterious quality to its epic string arrangement which is accompanied by frenzied guitar work. Its provides a thrilling opening to this album.

"Southern Ocean" follows bringing things down a notch or two with gorgeous strings, mournful guitar work and foreboding percussion. It runs like an updated version of "House of the Rising Sun", building purposefully and becoming increasingly textured with each passing second. It all subsides with a magnificent symphonic eruption towards the end.

Further down the line, "Unlock My Door's" combination of bluesy guitar and flamboyant violins evokes images of the barren trails around the dust bowl regions of the USA. There's a certain edge to this track, that had me pondering how great this would suit something like HBO's Deadwood.

"Exist" comes as a real shock, I was expecting another fast-paced epic adventure of a track. Instead, a tranquil ambient passage slides in. Once you get over the initial shock, though, this 10 minute piece starts to work its slowly-layered charms on you. Its textures and shimmering beauty give this track a certain weight, that has enough power to lull you into a deep coma.

Roots guitar acts as a wake-up call on the introduction of next track "Can't Play The Game". This is the song that propels "See.." from a great album into a truly exceptional piece of work. Witness the majestic orchestral waves at around the 3 minute mark, that could have been lifted from any number of blockbuster films, such is its dramatic nature. The climax of strings, percussion, vocal chants and guitars can only be described as spellbinding.

The final track "See" has a lot to live up to after "Can't Play.." and Butler tries valiantly to match it. This 13 minute track doesn't quite reach the same lofty heights (not many tracks would), but the funereal strings towards the end provide a real poignant moment.

All in all, "See (Symphony No.1)" is a near masterpiece, engaging throughout and polished with a real Hollywood sheen. The string arrangements seem to take most of the lead parts and are backed up with an army of guitars and percussion work straight out of the blues and classic rock handbooks. Such an approach catapults these songs into the upper echelons of cinema music. It will only be a matter of time before one of those big-time producers will be calling on Cam Butler's door. His cinematic punk music is destined to be soundtracking one of those Marvel Comics blockbusters anytime soon.

Rating - 87%

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"Exist" mp3 (excerpt) - Cam Butler
"Does Your River Run Deep?" mp3 (exceprt) - Cam Butler

Points of Interest

2007-02-27T15:19:00.000Z

1. Mogwai, despite a prolific output in 2006 (Mr.Beast, Zidane, The Fountain), appear to be back in the studio according to their website.

2. Planet Mu have details on their 2007 release schedule.

3. 65 Days of Static have a few live dates up here, including a few at Scotland's wonderful Triptych Festival.

4. You can watch Arcade Fire perform "Intervention" on Saturday Night Live here.

5. Portishead previewed an unmaed song in a low-key performance in Bristol, according to Pitchfork

6. Hidden Shoal Recordings have pre-released Wes Willenbring's "Somewhere Someone Else", which should be of interest to fans of Eluvium, Stars of the Lid, The Dead Texan and Labradford.

7. The Strange Death of Liberal England recorded a session for the Steve Lamacq show on BBC Radio 1. Stream it here. Pre-order their forthcoming single here.

8. Kingbastard has remastered and uploaded another record, this time it is his "5" ep, download it for free here.

9. Pre-order Vessels forthcoming single "Yuki/Forever The Optimist" here.

10. SITE NEWS: in the coming week I will be posting exclusive mp3's from 4 up and coming artists in and round in electronica genre. I am hoping to now make this article a monthly event.

Neo Ouija To Return

2007-02-27T10:45:00.000Z

It was a sad day when innovative electronica label Neo Ouija closed its doors in 2005, having released some of the best sounds throughout its short lifespan. 30 albums were released in all including some glorious work by the lieks of Seven Ark, Metamatics, Clatterbox and Accelera Deck.

Well, the good news is, Neo Ouija is set to return in 2007 with a slew of records planned from the likes of Metamatics, Nacht Plank, Millicent and Deer

New Port-Royal Track

2007-02-26T20:29:00.000Z

Port-Royal's magnificent 2005 album "Flares" (review)easily fits into my top 10 albums of all time. To say I have been looking forward to the follow-up is a complete understatement. Things, thankfully, are starting to take shape, "Afraid To Dance" is due in April, preceeded by the "Honved Ep". The Italian quintet have posted a brand new track, "Internet Love" (possibly a tribute to Kraftwerk's "Computer Love" ?) and have stuck to their promise of less guitars with this swirling beat-driven number. Stream it here.

An Abundance of Herbs

2007-02-26T19:28:00.000Z

Quite a lot of Herb Recordings news to digest here, but I'll give it a bash. Firstly, the innovative Scottish label has released full details of their two latest signees, Engine 7 and Skytree. Meanwhile, Solipsism have made 4 unreleased ambient tracks available for download and Kingbastard has uploaded some older material.

Skytree

Skytree is the work of Evan Snyder, an Afro-wielding Minnesota-based musician who mixes folk with IDM in his own experimental way. Having released some music via Benbecula and Eaststroke Records, a full length debut for Herb Recordings is expected in the no too distant future. "Windings Of The Dragon Track" will be available via digital download and CD. Listen to the sample track below, it comes across like a less evil Boards of Canada performing in some weird and wonderful forest. This is the real "Campfire Headphase"

"Horizon Rock" mp3 - Skytree

Engine7

Engine7 is a stalwart of the netlabel scene having released records on 12rec and a few others. It was only a matter of time before someone else took notice. At the tail end of last year, Herb Recordings certainly took notice snapping up Engine7 in time to release his forthcoming "Me, But Perfect" album. His most polished work to date, it retains the heartfelt emotion and those uplifiting melodies. Each track is carefully constructed, with painstaking attention to detail. It is a triumph for organic instrumentation and digital innovation. A must for fans of Sigur Ros, The Album Leaf and Helios.

"Sunrise, Catalonia (7.14 am)" mp3 - Engine7

You can also stream the absolutely tremendous and live favourite "Tempertantrum 11.36 am" here

Solipsism

"Electricty Flows In Squares" (review) is certainly one of the freshest electronica releases I have heard this year. It mixes swirling, ethereal melodies with precise and mechanistic programming, a wonderful contrast. Solipsism have since uploaded some unreleased ambient tracks, recorded during "The Electricity Flows..." sessions get them here.

Kingbastard

Kingbastard unleashed the sinister "Bastradize Ep" (review) earlier this year, I described it as "quick-fix of frenzied beats, effervescent melodies and a lo-fi style production". He has now gone into his back catalogue, re-mastering and reloading some of it. You can obtain "Sad Machines & Things That Go Bump In The Night", free for a limted time only, here.

Richard Walters : "We Have Your Head"

2007-02-25T11:41:00.000Z

Big Scary Monsters rarely get it wrong, so when they send out a bunch of mp3's you generally sit up and take notice. Having already released Yndi Halda's "Enjoy Eternal Bliss" Ep, BSM will follow this with the release of Richard Walters' "Pilotlights" Ep.

The 24-year old songwriter from the fertile grounds of Oxford, UK claims to have the most requested song that has featured on a CSI programme. "Pilotlights" can be bought for just £6 here. In the meantime, here's one of thos mp3's, listen to the ethereal quality of Walters' voice.

"We Have Your Head" mp3 - Richard Walters

christ. Live @ Tronic

2007-02-24T12:50:00.001Z

Tronic have pulled off a major coup in getting christ. to perform at the next installment on March 16th at the 13th Note.

Also joining him is the fantastic Keser, Edge of the Map and Deemond

Vessels Live @ O'Henry's, Glasgow 24/02/07

2007-02-24T12:01:00.000Z

O'Henry's, in the heart of Glasgow's city centre, isn't a venue I would normally consider for live music. But, its low roof, miniscule 'stage' and low-key lighting gives it a certain charm. Vessels ensured they used the venue's atmosphere to their advantage throughout a very succesful night for the young band.

I missed the opening band Grozny, but judging by their myspace profile they enjoy a good scream, jangly guitars and off-kilter rythmns. I did catch next act Piano Bar Fight. This was a good thing, their frontman posseses a Morrisey-esque baritone and it is soundtracked by urgent, chopy and jerky instrumentation. There's a decent bit of potential there and Piano Bar Fight are certainly one of the more interesting bands to emerge from Glasgow's underground.

Most regular readers of this site will be aware of Vessels by now. Signed to Cuckundoo Records, their last ep seemed to feature more ideas than most bands manage in their entire career. Last night's show was no different, with the band using a arsenal of machines and instruments to concoct their sound which sways between post-rock, indie, electronica and post-hardcore. It is hard to pinpoint their sound exactly, mainly due to the fact there is so much going on. Instruments were swapped and genres swept through with apparent ease, the drummer kept his focus throughout, putting in a superb performance. One song, (possibly "Armed To The Teeth") featured the frontman sparring with his drummer on a seperate kit, my only complaint being it didn't last long enough.

Some old favourites were aired too, most notably an early inclusion of "The Beast", but it was closing track "Look At That Cloud" that provided the show-stopping moment. I am a bit of a post-rock veteran, I have lost count how many times I have seen Mogwai, this track is as good as anything I have ever heard. It recieved the biggest cheer of the night and is, quite frankly, stunning.

Next up for Vessels is a prestigious slot at BBC's Maida Vale Studios. It seems they are destined for greater things and the 50 or so people who were there at last night's performance witnessed the start of something special

T In The Park

2007-02-24T10:51:00.000Z

I managed to get two tickets for Scotland's annual T In The Park festival. It was remarkably painless and took just 45 minutes or so of staring at an ill-informed timer lodged at a 15 minute wait, beofre I could proceed to the check out. As far as I am aware, all 120,000 tickets have gone now. This year's festival will be expanded to a three day event, the line-up isn't that great at the moment. Although both Arcade Fire and Damien Rice have been booked as headliners, now that's worth the £140 alone.

Full Line Up So Far... (I've highlighted the bands I want to see... slim pickings at the moment)

Arctic Monkeys, The Killers and Snow Patrol will be the three headliners and other artists confirmed to appear include Bloc Party, The Coral, Lily Allen, Razorlight, Arcade Fire, James, James Morrison, The Kooks, My Chemical Romance, The Klaxons, CSS, Babyshambles, Jamie T, Scissor Sisters, Kings of Leon, The Fratellis, Paolo Nutini, Goo Goo Dolls, Kasabian, DJ Shadow, Interpol, Maximo Park, Mika, Damien Rice, Amy Winehouse and Tori Amos