It really is long overdue that somebody didn't just say how good Thea Gilmore is, but actively tried to help her sell records. One of the prime undervalued songwriters of recent years, Thea is in fine form here with a song that stays in your brain, it's not too clever or anything, contains some nice ringing guitars. In fact, this is one of the best songs i've heard in months and months and I don't just like everything and you can see for yourself on this page. Brilliant tune that focuses largely on the 'Come Up... Come Up... Come Up... WITH MEEEHEEHEE!' hook and what a life-affirmingly excellent hook it is. She's in fine voice too, sounding better than ever. ( reviewed 21.12.2008 )

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A collection of new folk talent and Graham Coxon from Blur sounding very Nick Drake on third track, 'All Has Gone'. Now, it's all very good getting in guest vocalist, but please ensure they sing in tune! Well, we all know Graham isn't exactly the finest ever vocalist known to man. Nevermind, this nice slice of tasteful folk music with its subtly excellent strings and nicely rolling tempo is still a cool track, all the same. Roddy Womble of Idlewild convincingly takes on the vocalist role on 'Lavender Hill' and will prove a revelation to those of you who haven't yet picked up the 'Drever, McCusker, Woomble' LP released in 2008 on the excellent Navigator Records.( reviewed 21.12.2008 )

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Will Kevans initially reminded me of a sweeter sounding Paul Heaton ( Housemartins, Beautiful South ) and his songs should indeed appeal to fans of either of those groups, really. Simple yet heartfelt lyrics, a nice summery feel to the rhythm of the melodies - all very nice indeed. The flip side is arguably even better than lead track 'Everything You Do'. Suddenly Will sounds a bit like the other male singer in Beautiful South, he gets in some very nice indeed pedal-steel guitar and writes some decent lyrics to top it all off. ( reviewed 21.12.2008 )

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We all expect punk rock, danger, blood and guts and tits. We get Dido instead with her comeback single, 'Don't Believe In Love'. Inevitably lacking in any kind of energy whatsoever, even her voice doesn't sound quite as seductive as it did when she first hit the scene singing with Eminem. Seems like decades ago that happened now. Several mega-selling solo albums later, Dido still hasn't learned how to write a proper song that has interesting verses as well as a slightly catchy chorus. Slickly produced, one for the long summer afternoons driving to the supermarket. Yep, that good!( reviewed 21.12.2008 )

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Ah, Kano. What would we do without you apart from live our lives much the same as we did before and not suddenly sit up bolt-upright and think, 'Hey, I know what the world needs. Kano!' Still, this jerky slice of modern r'n'b is pretty cool actually. The synths bounce left and right, the beats are regularly clicking in and out and the raps are better than average. Works for me. Hell, I might even track down a Kano album or two after listening to this and that's a recommendation if ever I heard one. Joining 'Hustler' here is an instrumental 'Hustler' as well as 'I Like It' which proves that Kano really does have a ear for interesting percussive patterns to enrich his material.( reviewed 21.12.2008 )

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Lauren Harris, daughter of Mr Harris who plies his trade for Iron Maiden launches her debut single. Needing better production and a better tune, this remains interesting because we haven't really got a rock-chick in the charts right now. Yeah, we need a modern day Joan Jet or something. Not sure judging by this song alone how far Lauren will go but with touches of rock, country and pop she does seem to have the versatility to make a name for herself. ( reviewed 21.12.2008 )

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Since the release of her debut 'Dreams', Zeya has made features in The Guardian, The Sun and Take 5 Magazine. A classic pop rock sound the PR blurb tells me and for once they are exactly right. Her voice has the sound of success about it and thanks to producer Andy Whitmore, she has a hit making pedigree to access and use for her records. 'Sticks' has been released to promote her forthcoming debut LP which should surface early 2009. One worth watching if you enjoy pop music, certainly. ( reviewed 21.12.2008 )

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It's been thirteen years since Guns N Roses last made an appearence in the UK singles charts, their cover of 'Sympathy For The Devil' reaching number 9 in January 1995. It's been fifteen years since they last released a new album. What have they been upto? Well, I think everybody knows the entire band left, bar Axl. Bands two, three, four...... ten, eleven left as well. The resulting 'Chinese Democracy' LP and single as a result contains billions of overdubs. Nobody really expected them to sound the same then, did they? Ah, you did, you did! Well, two things here do link to the past. The Axl Rose scream near the start is a thrill. The twiddly guitar solo later on is a thrill. The song itself sounds like what it probably is though, a composite of various 'Nu-Metal' bands. ( reviewed 16.11.2008 )

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Justin from The Darkness returns! He's back!! He's not unemployed!!! Oh, alright, let's make some sense. 'Hot Leg' are Justin's new vehicle and it sounds like he's surrounded himself with a crack team of young musicians that are hungry and eager to sound like Queen. Good Queen, mind you. I hate to say it, because I was never overly fond of The Darkness, but 'Trojan Guitar' sounds better than half the recent 'Queen + Paul Rodgers' album. The song isn't exactly memorable, mind you. The harmonies are nice and the playing is impressive and Justin's chants of 'Man-Rock!' whenever Hot Leg play live are satisfyingly ridiculous. ( reviewed 16.11.2008 )

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Clunky, ugly and stupid. The Killers finally turn into a cross between Duran Duran circa their 'rock' era and A-Ha circa their having no hits era. The synths here are bouncy in the way that eurodisco is bouncy. This electronic slice of nothing has no right to be viewed as important, although it probably will be as The Killers have yet to have a small child wonder why they are actually naked and not dressed in fine robes after all. A question? Was 'Human' really and secretly produced by Stock Aitken and Waterman?( reviewed 16.11.2008 )

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Bjork sounds stranger than ever with 'Nattura'. She sounds like she has never heard a regular song in her life, doesn't know what one is. So, for such an obtuse number, she gets Thom Yorke in to sing backing vocals. What is the sound actually like, though? Well, if Captain Beefheart did Drum n Bass, that's what the musical backing here sounds like. As the 'song' progresses, it gets scarier and scarier and scarier to the point where the levels of exhilaration within you are higher than Lewis Hamilton winning a grand-prix. Stunning stuff then and certainly not one to play to your parents, your grand-parents, your kids or indeed - even your friends. Let's put it this way. Fans of recent Scott Walker will love this. ( reviewed 16.11.2008 )

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TD Lind has been reviewed in Mojo, Uncut and The Sun. He recorded his latest album in four days flat and if the rest of the album is as chirpy and life-affirming as the happy 'La La Love' then I might well be tracking it down. See, TD Lind has a strong set of vocal chords, a slight gritty quality to his voice and constructs 'La La Love' around a simple refrain. It powers along without giving you time to think about anything serious, and therefore works as a great anti-depressant. 'Call Me Sinner' is his second LP and seeing as the b-side here, 'Cold Heart' is also excellent, I actually almost certainly will be tracking the album down, definitely ( reviewed 16.11.2008 )

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Selkirk’s Frightened Rabbit release another excellent single, this one being the third from their 2nd LP, 'The Midnight Organ Flight'. On this basis, it's high-time I bought 'The Midnight Organ Flight'. The very titled of that album alone kind of indicates that Frightened Rabbit aren't Glasvegas, doesn't it? 'I Feel Better' is firmly in experimental indie-pop mode of the kind John Peel would have fallen head over heels with. I kind of get the feeling John wouldn't have had much time for Glasvegas, mind you. Excellent harmony vocals on the lead track of this single too. Hats off to them!( reviewed 14.10.2008 )

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The new James Bond theme needs to have an element of cool and I guess that's why they got Jack White involved. As for the song, it doesn't in any way rank as either Jack White's finest moment, Alicia's or James Bonds. The best that can be said for it is that it's serviceable. It quickly loses its initial thrills and the only reason I can understand that Alicia Keys sings in a Jack White imitation, is that if she sang properly, she'd blow him off the stage. ( reviewed 14.10.2008 )

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A pub jukebox and a behind the bar liquid refreshment courtesy of James Knight and Nichol Thomson, eg, Talc. This release showcases two songs from their upcoming 'Licensed Premises Lifestyle' LP and it's quite a refreshing sound they produce. Basically, it's fairly light-hearted funk/soul of a particularly 80s kind only without suffering dodgy 80s production. Thus, 'Jukebox' has plenty of funky bass-lines and is a delight, flip 'Sabuca Chaser' has possibly the only vocodered vocals in the world that actually work. Interesting stuff. ( reviewed 14.10.2008 )

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I enjoyed 'I Am A Bird Now', although with reservations concerning the bands consistency. The EP format therefore should put my fears to bed. It does, the title track is elegant, beautiful simplicity - placing Anthony and the Johnsons somewhere between Tindersticks and Leonard Cohen. It's repeat playable and arguably the best thing they've ever done, just voice, piano and plenty of melancholic atmosphere. The first few seconds of 'Crackenhagen' is a bit 'Gloomy Sunday' by Billie Holiday. Then again, Billie Holiday is one of the greatest artists that ever lived. This tune also reminds me of Matt Johnson of The The's debut, 'Burning Blue Soul'. Magnificent. There are five tracks here in total and if the standards attained are anything to go by, the album should be one of the finest to emerge next year. ( reviewed 14.10.2008 )

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Olympus Mons latest has been produced by Tom McKay and mixed by Mark Plati, who has worked with The Cure. The guys have toured around europe earning a crust, playing alongside Babyshambles, among others. Their sound is instantly similar to a lot of other bands and this is what lets them down. Their mix of angular, speedy indie-guitar fare won't blow any windows open then but this is certainly enjoyable after three or four listens. The singer's voice is an acquired taste and they may not be for everyone, but if they are playing near you, please do check them out.( reviewed 21.09.2008 )

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Two songs taken from the 5th Last Train Home LP which is also titled 'Last Good Kiss'. Led by Bruce White, these guys are very likely to be found filed under Americana, Country or Country Rock. You can download these songs here and check this out for yourself. 'Last Good Kiss' is great, grown-up music that still manages to pack in a lot of energy. The 'flip' side, 'Kissing Booth' is a moody, atmospheric tune, great for driving through a cold night under a pitch black sky. ( reviewed 21.09.2008 )

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Real World present Dub Colossus, a collaboration between contemporary Ethiopian artists and Nick Page, aka 'Dubullah'. As the name of this project might indicate, we're heavy on the dub but this is pleasingly authentic dub. Mix that with a blend of the contemporary and the traditional from Ethiopia and you have a very attractive package. A full album 'Dub Colossus In A Town Called Addis' has been released and on this evidence is well worth tracking down. 'Neh Yelginete' is arguably the highlight, a dreamy, Piano jazz number that reminds this listener of the lovely Bebel Gilberto.( reviewed 21.09.2008 )

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You can't argue really that The Coral appear to have mellowed over the years. That's not neccessarily a bad thing though when they put out songs as accomplished as this is. It's not really the finest thing they've ever put out, but it just sounds really nice anyway. The additional track is a softly chugging number called 'Depth Of Her Smile'. Anyway, what i'd like to hear is The Coral produced by the guys behind The Bees ( band of bees in the US ) to really lend The Coral an authentic Sixties sound. Their songs seem right from that era. I mean, two songs here lasting a mere five and a half minutes? Pick up the 7" vinyl, I say. ( reviewed 21.09.2008 )

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Not everybody likes Keane, I know that. 'Spiralling' has been released as a free-download single though to help promote the guys third album, 'Perfect Symmetry'. They haven't exactly reinvented the wheel, although they do sound far less earnest and far more 'pop' than in recent years. This song also reminds me of Mystery Jets 'Two Doors Down, it has a kind of thumping eighties styled drum beat to it. Quite catchy all in all, although likely to make you want to thump someone after hearing it more than around three times. Listener beware! ( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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Manchester based Reemer still haven't sorted out their cheap sounding production problem. The vocals sound cheap, the guitars which should powerfully rock your arse off just seem somewhat lame. The song is good enough although not quite as good as 'Maniac' had been. The flip-side is a change of pace however, a power-ballad of sorts that shows diversity of a kind, although still sounds like it was recorded in a shed. Sort it out, guys!( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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AC/DC return with 'Rock 'n' Roll Train. That's all you really need to know, isn't it? Why, this sounds just like AC/DC should sound and the same as they've sounded since at least 'Highway To Hell'. The song itself is good enough to please long-term fans, although perhaps not enough to get them overly excited about the forthcoming AC/DC album. They'll buy it anyway, of course. ( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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Cliff returns with his latest bid to have a number one single in each one of the six decades he's been making music. 'Thank You For A Lifetime' is kind of autobiographical, a musical equivalent to his recent, erm, autobiography if you like. The ballad sections sound like they could have been written by Gary Barlow, the upbeat sections sound like they were written by some kind of hack session man. He's still got a fine pop voice though, has our Cliff. 'Thank You For A Lifetime' is no 'Move It' or 'Wired For Sound' then, but fans will predictably lap it up. ( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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These guys have been described as "Glam Punk Rockers", in reality, they sound here like a cross between Kiss and AC/DC without the originality of either, which is a bit of a shocking thing to say. They could be the new Darkness, they could have a way with hooks and make an album full of this stuff. So, not horrible or anything just rather weird to be hearing this kind of stuff described as 'new' when released in 2008. ( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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Go: Audio are a Green Day kind of feel-good punk band designed to make music for teen-movies. Nothing wrong with that and their debut single, 'Made Up Stories' reached number thirty-three in the UK singles charts. 'She Left Me' has, at the time of writing, unluckily nestled in at number forty-one but more touring and more harmlessly fun tunes such as this and Go: Audio are sure to have a bright future. ( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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Are Kings Of Leon turning into what U2 could have become if they hadn't went dance? I mean, nobody thinks of The Strokes these days but Kings Of Leon have just got bigger and bigger and bigger to the point where 'Sex On Fire' even sounds like a stadium, let alone is likely to fill one. They haven't sold out though, they retain a kind of charm that makes you believe they really are real and not involved in the ugly business of the music industry. Great song this actually, The Kings just keep on getting better and better. ( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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Like A Thief Hail from Brighton in the UK and i'm starting to get something of a soft spot for them. Well, on myspace they list their influences as including The Hollies, Field Music, Beatles, Rumble Strips, Michelle Shocked, Kate Bush and Roy Orbison. That they manage to sound nothing like any of them is one of those things. This is very, very good though. This song is super-happy, slightly quirky female-led pop music. You remember Mark E Nevin who co-wrote 'Kill Uncle' for Morrissey? The music here sounds a bit like a happy version of that - good times. ( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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Readers Comments Alwyn Australia Why can't I purchase this artist's music out here? Her delivery is perfect and I would like to have her records in my collection.

This isn't Queen, ok? There's only two original members of Queen here as John Deacon has more integrity than either May or Taylor. Paul Rodgers writes very silly lyrics, the harmonies in the chorus are ok, the guitars crunch in a Queen type fashion. Why call yourself Queen though? Well, it's clearly for commercial reasons although when Brian May produces a cool, classically Queen sounding guitar solo, we suddenly forgive these guys. An album might be pushing it all too far but I wouldn't be at all surprised if 'C-Lebrity' became quite a sizeable hit here in the UK. ( reviewed 14.09.2008 )

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Jesus, have Bloc Party been listening to John Lydon? This is a bit of a departure for Bloc Party and a welcome one in my book. Vocals during a hookless chorus that resemble the former Public Image Limited man along with thumping percussion, brass parts and very little actual guitar. Bloc Party break out of a particular kind of indie-ghetto to create something a little more adventurous instead. This booming drum sound is excellent, the lack entirely of a recognizable melody is actually great, although they've stuck lots of little melodies buried beneath the noise, instead. It's like Bloc Party going from wanting to play with Kaisier Chiefs or Kasabian to wanting to support PIL or The Fall instead. It'll lose them a bunch of fans but I for one am very happy indeed. ( reviewed 23.08.2008 )

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The Verve return after everyone got bored with Richard Ashcroft's solo career. Tantalising hints that this would be a return to 1995 or even 1993 have proved unfounded. Happily though, it doesn't sound like 'Urban Hymns' either. 'Love Is Noise' has a clever sample 'uh-oh, uh-oh, uh-oh' that runs throughout, is clearly the product of a band rather than dickie alone and has almost restored my faith in The Verve as an entity. Sadly, the flip-sides are deepy in-essential. A jam called 'Chic Dub' for example is no 'Man Called Sun' or 'Gravity Grave' and then a couple of live tracks? Must try harder, Verve! ( reviewed 23.08.2008 )

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Hailing from London and having survived life-threatening hospitalisations and also surviving being dropped after releasing their debut LP, you'd expect Johnny Panic to fade away. Well, ny first thoughts are 'this sounds like Green Day, very American' - it's the sort of song that needs to be used in a feel-good movie or American comedy. The chorus is strong, the production late-nineties, early noughties and the b-side is an earnest acoustic ballad that should cause a few girls to weep at concerts. Quite an interesting and promising release, then. ( reviewed 10.08.2008 )

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Rubbish name forgiven, let me just say that Frightened Rabbit are a three piece from Scotland led by brothers Scott and Grant Hutchinson. Very much in a indie-mould, yet in a pleasing 'Twilight Sad' kind of mould. Both 'Fast Blood' and the flip, 'Soon Go' are hypnotic slices of the kind of music John Peel would have spun had only he still been alive. 'Soon Go' in particular is music seemingly born to be played at 4am when you can't sleep - providing you with joyuful revelations just as the sun rises. File this one under passionate mid-tempo hypnotic John Peel indie-guitar. ( reviewed 10.08.2008 )

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'Honey Ryder' is the name of the character played by Ursula Andress in James Bond's 'Doctor No'. It's also of course the name of this duo from London who manage to come across as rock/pop/r&b and dance all at the same time, although the lead mix of 'Numb' is more on the rock side. Hitting number thirty-two spot in early August will be encouragement for the group and also for those that have invested in them. Yes, 'Honey Ryder' have sold shares in future profits they expect to generate with shares carrying dividends in profit derived from a variety of income streams. Anyway, two remixes accompany the radio-edit, 'The Papercuts Ibiza Mix' actually being quite good. ( reviewed 10.08.2008 )

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Edinburgh four-piece Alfonzo have been touring around every club and pub building up their talents to the point where they now come across on vinyl as one of the tighest rock bands the UK has produced in recent years. Imagine what Ocean Colour Scene would sound like without the boredom and tedious britpop choruses. No, Alfonzo have a far more exciting, expansive sound tinged with psychedelic elements to the point where they can release as a b-side a tight instrumental that still manages to be exciting. Great stuff. ( reviewed 10.08.2008 )

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I first came across Catherine Feeny playing in a BBC studio during some of their festival coverage last year - it was either Glastonbury or Cambridge, I can't quite remember. Anyway, she was born in Philadelphia, released 'Hurricane Glass' as her debut album, relocated to Norfolk in the UK, got a song 'Mr Blue' on the TV show 'The OC' so therefore is now tipped for fame. Personally, the first time I heard 'Mr Blue' last year, I knew I wanted to hear more Catherine Feeny. This 'Empty Buildings' EP is arguably her most consistent release to-date, from the jaunty and addictive 'The Mighty Whale And Abraham' through to 'Empty Buildings' itself which adds atmospheric effects to her usual voice and guitar approach. ( reviewed 10.08.2008 )

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Released on the 28th of July, 'Picture This' marks the first release from The Talks following two years of touring. The Talks hail from Hull and create music with deceptively simple hooks. Either one of these two tracks are better than anything from the third Futureheads album, for example. There's no complication, just music energetic enough to retain rough edges but honed as far as the arrangements are concerned to create something approaching guitar-pop gold. Well, that's certainly true of 'Picture This', 'Faces' similarly so, although 'Faces' kicks just that little bit harder thanks to some thumping bass lines also in the mix.( reviewed 10.08.2008 )

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The Faff are a 4 piece electro-indie band from Yorkshire. The sound is reminiscent of Bloc Party to my ears, not an entirely bad thing, by the way. They have some punkish energy and decent, clear vocals enough to be able to infuse their songs with passion. The strangely titled 'That's A Nice Glove'? is a very 21st century indie-rock with a progressive tinge whilst 'Halves 'n' Halves 'n' Halves' is in a similarly vein, if a little more ramshackle than the tight thrills of 'That's A Nice Glove?'.( reviewed 10.08.2008 )

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Folk singer Pete Du Pon covers Green Day's 'Basketcase', they approve of it and I think he's got a massive hit on his hands. You know, like that guy who did that Tears For Fears song that nobody can remember anymore? I don't mean that to be a mean comment, provided Mr Du Pon has something beyond this cover version, i'm sure he'll be fine. He takes the song at a slow, earnest pace. It's the sort of version that Westlife could have raced to number one with had only they a little more imagination about the type of material they should record. I know, I know, this already isn't sounding to everybodies tastes, yet my wife loves it and she has more populist tastes than me, so who knows? You may love this too. ( reviewed 15.07.2008 )

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Rosabella is already a firm favourite of adriandenning.co.uk readers after only one previous single release. Why should that be so? Well, this songstress grew up in Devon and that alone is almost enough for me. The vocals+piano thing is very reminiscent musically and in terms of sound of early Tori Amos and that's an adored enough sound Tori herself has frustratingly rarely managed since. Rosabella's twin sister writes the lyrics, Rosabella funds her career through a host of music related material and 'Water' b/w 'What Angel' is another delight from a woman I want to hear an album by urgently. ( reviewed 10.07.2008 )

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We've got some involvement here from the immortal Danny Thompson as well as Tchad Blake of Tom Waits fame. How did this Conil bloke manage to get those two on board? It's a slight shame therefore when the title track doesn't immediately blow your socks off. The sound of Danny Thompson is distinctive on his bass, Conil has a vocal like a warmer, softer Tom Waits and that comparison is a lazy one to make, I know. The song does take quite a few listens to edge itself into your brain but when it does, suddenly you realise that it wouldn't sound out of place on the radio. Of the supporting material, 'Dog Meat Stew' has a great lyric in 'i just drank the best excuse on the planet.' A winner for me, at any rate. ( reviewed 10.07.2008 )

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Alan McGhee of Creation Records and Oasis fame has hyped Glasvegas as the next big thing for at least a year now. Mr McGhee is someone who used to have his finger on the pulse in the 80s but hasn't done so now for nearly twenty years. So, do Glasvegas' thank Mr McGhee? Do they live upto the hype of 'the man'? Well, they remind me of Teenage Fanclub with stronger Scottish accents. 'Geraldine' reminds me of Phil Spector for the rhythm section and the guitar reminds me of Jesus and Mary Chain. The lyrics are very good indeed and play this sucker three or four times on the trot and you too will be believing. 'Everybody's Got To Learn Sometime' is a cover of a song by The Korgis. I had to look that fact up, but I knew I remembered the tune, it's this one. ( reviewed 10.07.2008 )

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The Rushes produce a four track EP of melodic pop-rock that has slightly thin indie-style production. They sound mainstream in a good way, their melodies and arrangements have clearly been thought through. Choruses stick in the mind, the musicianship is clearly decent and there isn't a bad track among the four, quite something in this day and age. ( reviewed 10.07.2008 )

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These guys could be my new favourite band if they continue to write songs so very good. The Cute Lepers are a faster version of The Libertines fronted by Fergal Sharkey in his Undertones days then. Sound good to you? It does to me. Two songs last a total or five minutes and 'Lonely Boy' in particular sounds 1977 in the very best way imaginable. 'Out Of Order' features 'pop' backing vocals amongst the guitars and energy, 'Lonely Boy' features a chorus the size of a large labotomy. So, two punk-rock classics in a Ramones/Buzzcocks style? Correct. Purchase this now, look, it'll only cost you a couple of quid! ( reviewed 10.07.2008 )

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Yet another guitar band? Yes. These guys remind me of Elbow and you need comparisons, don't you? Well, the production isn't at Elbow levels, then again, Elbow sound overproduced to my ears. The Get Out Clause rather let their melodies do the talking. I'd like a little more chime on the guitars, something a little more 1991, but then again, we can't have everything and this is certainly a solid track to track down. Sorry for the crap pun, by the way. ( reviewed 10.07.2008 )

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Now this is a new sound. Yes, a new sound. Wow. The blurb here tells me Magic Arm are a Manchester based multi-instrumentalist who have been invited to perform at this years Glastonbury on the BBC Introducing Stage. Last year, The Ting Tings appeared on the same stage and of course shot to fame shortly afterwards. What we have here then is a bubbling, strangely old fashioned mix of synths, loops and beats that have a home-made feel whilst at the same time coming across as weirdly modern. 'Widths And Heights' is tremendous basically, the kind of song that gets better every time you hear it. 'The Ballad Of Melody Nelson' is the supporting track and suddenly it becomes clear. If Brian Wilson was recording today in a Manchester bedroom, he'd sound a bit like this. Throw in a little Beatles and an early Depeche Mode pioneering spirit for sound, and that's Magic Arm. Recommended stuff. ( reviewed 22.06.2008 )

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A new five-piece from Edinburgh, The Fusiliers have released this EP exclusively through download emporiums. They've come up with a novel approach, About the size of a credit card, the Drop Card carries information, including track listings, art work and all the other stuff normally found on record or CD sleeves. It also has a code, which allows the buyer to download the songs. As far as the music is concerned, they've also got some interesting ideas there. Basically they create what might be termed 'power-pop', yet 'Beauty And The Grace' has an almost industrial section in there as well as reminding me a little of Oasis, circa 'Definitely Maybe'. 'Days' starts out a little shoegazing with a wonderful mesh of guitars, 'Holding On' has a great poppy guitar chorus, and so on. ( reviewed 22.06.2008 )

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Reemer sound earnest, energetic and impressive on the two minute, nine second 'Maniac'. With better production, it's easy to imagine Reemer performing to large audiences at festivals and going down a storm. Nice to hear a few harmonies here and there. Modern groups aren't always willing to work on their arrangements to that extent. The supporting song, 'Summer Sun' is just as impressive as 'Maniac', although I do want to hear these songs recorded in a better studio with a little more money, perhaps. ( reviewed 22.06.2008 )

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Readers Comments Jason Martins Warrington, UK Saw this band in manchester a little while a go and i've got to say their live performance is incredible...seems you hit the nail on the head with your review! They will impress at the festivals next year i suspect! Only writing to say i htought maybe 4 stars would be more appropriate for maniac given that you seemed to love the song/energy/vibe of the band and the production was your only issue! Go on, give the lads an extra star! If you get chacne to see them, get down there! Anyway, loving the site! Keep up the good work! Jason. x

Mama's Gun are named after an Erykah Badu album and specialise in the kind of soulful and fresh grooves we thought had gone out of fashion. A male falsetto beautifully wails away, the instrumental backing sounds real, which is a welcome change in this age of synthesized, pro-tooled sorry excuses for soul-music. Their myspace page describe Mama's GUn as funk/pop/soul and vocalist Andy Platts is surely a star to be. This band deserve to be huge and have had the likes of Chris Evans and Steve Lamacq raving about them. They are touring around London and beyond, if you happen across a gig of theirs, go right in and treat yourself. This is just glorious stuff and five out of five, no question. ( reviewed 25.05.2008 )

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What's up with Coventry/Leamington Spa lately? We've had The Enemy, Day One and now The Rrrs. All these things going on right under my nose?! Well, it's about time Coventry produced something of a scene, says me. Anyways, The Rrrs have an out and out guitar pop sound, complete with distinctive and/or irritating vocals. It works though, the three songs here are short, fun and full of promise. Add in an eighties sounding synth into the mix and these guys and girl will be there!( reviewed 15.05.2008 )

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She doesn't sound like Katie Meluah, thank god. No, singer/songwriter Rosabella Gregory instead sounds like the far superior Tori Amos - early Tori Amos too. If you're one of those Tori fans like me missing the simplicity and beauty of 'Little Earthquakes' and want something similar, you could really do far, far worse than invest in this little gem. Rosabella Gregory does have a slightly unusual voice, kind of reminiscent of Johanna Newsome in places, although with less of a whisper. No, Rosabella sings strongly actually and her piano patterns are a dream. 'India China' is my pick of the bunch, although really pretty much all of the songs here are strong. Definitely one to look out for. ( reviewed 15.05.2008 )

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Taken from their forthcoming album, Sparks return with another quirky slice of subversive pop music. This time out, we've got some electro styled noises mixed in with piano, a slightly orchestral section here and there harking back to Lil Beethoven. It's an intoxicating mix that gets better with every play. Bodes well for another good album from the boys, even though this isn't quite as good as 'Perfume' from 'Hello Young Lovers'.( reviewed 15.05.2008 )

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This band sound like an echo laden taken on early Cure. That's certainly not a bad thing, by the way. They sound very lo-fi, kind of pre synth Cure. Their songs manage to be catchy after a few listens in the same way a lot of stuff like this John Peel used to play would be. Both songs are very interesting and enjoyable and, if at first I didn't like the under-produced, lo-fi, live sound - now I can't imagine any other sound quite suiting them as well. Something a little glossier would take away a lot of the mystery, I fear. So, Nephu Huzzband? Well, crap name apart, they've produced a very enjoyable single release, both tracks as good as each other, too. ( reviewed 15.05.2008 )

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Kick Box Riot formed in March of 2007 in Pontypool/Cardiff. Voted best newcomer band of 2007 by listeners of BBC Radio 1 Wales, they've built up a fan-base nationwide through incessant gigging and energetic live performances. They play a brand of edgy indie-rock that's extremely easy to like. Wales has produced a good crop of rock bands over the past decade and a half, and it looks like Kick Box Riot will be joining the likes of Lost Prophets and Manic Street Preachers in the nations consciousness sooner rather than later. The title track here has plenty of hooks and a special word for the drummer, he brings a lot of dynamics to Kick Box Riot helping to elevate them above other pretenders. Good stuff and 'Keep The Change, You Filthy Animal' is just as good, loads of energy yet keeping in the hooks. A recommendation? Sure, and check them out when they play at a venue near you, it'll be worth it.( reviewed 4.05.2008 )

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The new Coldplay single has been produced by Brian Eno, yet still sounds like Coldplay. Well, stupid thing to say perhaps, yet we're soon to be four albums in and Coldplay perhaps need a new dynamic. There is evidence of Eno's sonics here, deep and booming bass and drums, for a start. Chris Martin's voice has been mixed a little back in the sound compared to how they usually sound, which works, actually. So, subtle changes rather than revolution and 'Violet Hill' is another of those Coldplay songs that seems initially forgettable, yet ends up winding its way into the repeat play section of your brain anyway. ( reviewed 4.05.2008 )

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A tidy three piece release this promo for their 'What You Want' EP. Nothing here is particularly innovative, yet we don't mind that too much. Both songs have plenty of hooks, 'Blame' the more likely to receive airplay although 'Settle' displays an impressive depth compositionally. They sound vaguely punky, the bass is kinda funky and the lead guitar should find favor with fans Snow Patrol, Elbow, etc. Where Personal Space Invaders score points over those two bands is the fact they haven't yet been overproduced. Let's hope it stays that way for them, become there is promise here, particularly all through the impressive 'Blame'. ( reviewed 19.04.2008 )

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Released on the 14th of April, 2008 - Karen David's 'Live Sessions EP' captures her bewitching, multi-cultural sound brilliantly. She's recently appeared in Sky One's Terry Pratchett adaptation alongside actor David Jason and has had coverage for her music on the BBC's 'Asian Network'. Well, those two snippets are just scratching the surface, visit her myspace page for a full list of achievements for this gorgeous Canadian born actress/singer-songwriter. 'The Live Sessions' EP was recorded organically using age old valve equipment. It lends all five tracks and twenty two minutes an absolutely lovely, distinctive sound. Her voice is a versatile instrument, at times sounding like a proper soul-singer, at other times a version of a sultry Kylie Minogue and at other times she hints at the diva vocal style of Mariah, Whitney, etc. The music combines tablas, acoustic guitar, and strings - amidst other things. 'Carry Me Home' has to be the pick of a strong, consistent bunch, the strings perfectly enhancing her vocals. It's an emotional song and this is an EP that has this music fan salivating in anticipation for a full-length debut LP. ( reviewed 19.04.2008 )

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This really doesn't deserve a five out of five, does it? A six out of five is the real score, but I have to comply by my own set limitations. This five song EP is like the music I was born to listen to. Everything has been merely leading upto this very point in time, the time i'd stumble upon 'Fleet Foxes'. A debut LP is due in June/July and you know what? It doesn't contain a single track from this five track EP. That spells out good things to me. People are falling over themselves when hearing this utterly beautiful, yet proper, music. This isn't classical, this isn't anything to do with The Beatles. Yet, harmonies pop up, accomplished harmonies, the kind The Beach Boys used to do, only imagine The Beach Boys in a monastery. Yes indeed, 'Fleet Foxes' have that church style echo and also seem to be singing in your bathroom. The songs are songs to utterly loose yourself in. Infact, if this EP were twice as long and the other tracks as good as the ones here, this would be the first 10/10 i'd have given to a new album release since 2002, or so. That's six years! Music so good here, that any kind of emotional person is likely to cry out tears of sheer happiness. 'Mykonos, 'English House' and 'Drops In The River' are all 10 out of 10 in our house. Imagine obscure 90s indie act Arnold and imagine an Arnold twice as good. Wonder if David Crosby has heard Fleet Foxes - he'd adore them. ( reviewed 6.04.2008 )

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I really like this single. They may well be listed on myspace as being 'pop/psychedelic/soul', although in reality, they don't place any of those words into my mind. The Beat? Yes. The Specials and No Doubt? Yes. They have a list of influences including The Smiths and The Cure, and lyrically, you can place them there. These aren't your usual soppy and ineffectual pop lyrics. The jazzy side of Van Morrison? Yeah, I can hear that. The lead track here takes a couple of listens but when it sinks in, you realise how clever this bands combination of influences actually is. Cross Morrissey with Madness and no, you don't get 'Kill Uncle', you get an energetic, literate and hooky pop song that's almost old fashioned in its desire to get you moving and humming at the same time. The b-side, 'Calling All Dilemas' goes off into jazzy territory, keeps in ska territory as well as again, providing a mighty tune. I like this band. ( reviewed 6.04.2008 )

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Timberland guests on a Madonna single, or vice-versa? It's a strange thing, yet this impeccably modern production places Madonna bang on in the middle of the 2008 sound, if such a thing exists. If this were a new Michael Jackson single, his fans would be dancing in the streets, waving flags of jubilation. Because it's Madonna and she seems to merely have jumped onto a bandwagon, there are murmurings of discontent. Still, i've heard worse singles by major artists this year. ( reviewed 6.04.2008 )

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What a great band name. There, i've said it. 'Men Without Pants' are of course Russell Simms and Dan the Automator. Quite a combination, I think you'll find. Jack White should be doing stuff like this, not messing around with his safety blanket that is The Raconteurs. Anyhoo, 'And The Girls Go' is absolutely storming with distorted, er, sounds... processed by Dan The Automator and a suitably impassion vocal from the Blues Explosion man. This has to be one of the most enjoyable, if very noisy, things to come from the blues explosion man in recent years. Highly recommended!( reviewed 26.03.2008 )

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Making a great second album only managed to earn The Futureheads the big drop from their record label. Relaunching themselves on their own label, they've come back nosier than ever before without forgetting to insert those friendly XTC style early eighties angular melodies. Thumping drums ( well, mostly cymbals for some strange reason ) and a very twisted tune, appropriately enough. This isn't likely to win back fans of their cover of Kate Bush's 'Hounds Of Love' but does demonstrate these boys mean business. This is initially unapproachable and fairly ordinary sounding, yet repeated plays gets this booming angry little thing into your mind. The type of song that should go down a storm live. ( reviewed 26.03.2008 )

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So many people are getting in on the swing thing, mostly with disastrous results. Look, Mr Sinatra, Sir to you, did it better than anybody else is ever going to. Got it? Good. As for Victoria Hart, at least she takes a slightly different approach. She covers the Hendrix number 'Little Wing' for instance, turning it into a very sexy sounding number as her voice gets your heart pumping and your, er, parts 'swaying'. I was less pleased to find a cover of a Robert Palmer tune, 'Addicted To Love', because I don't like Robert Palmer, dead or not. Is he dead? No matter. Victoria Hart thankfully improves on the original with a full sound, a less funky sound, but again her voice does it. An interesting, value for money twenty minute, six track EP release this. You may like it. Oh, this gets a 'three' for the music and a 'four' for the sexiness, but I don't do half stars, unfortunately. Check her out! ( reviewed 26.03.2008 )

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Quite a noisy racket, this one. Pendulum are currently beavering away on their second LP and it may well be worth checking out by the sounds of this. Electronic aggression matches distorted guitars for four and a half minutes of somewhat demented noise and barely audible vocals. They have some interesting ideas here but can they gell it into a cohesive, slay allcommers kind of sound? Well, we shall see. This is kind of Nine Inch Nails meets 808 State meets Punk Rock. Sounds good? Well, it's more interesting than good, but if a loud, exhilarating, distorted blast was ever needed, Pendulum can surely provide. ( reviewed 09.03.2008 )

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Salford’s Ting Tings consist of singer Katie White and drummer Jules De Martino. They have a bouncy, lo-fi sound which is half cheeky girls, half indie-guitar and one half glam disco. That of course makes one and a half, and according to the press rantings ( you know, the usual publications in the UK ) Ting Tings are going to be ones to watch in 2008. I can't help but finding 'Great DJ' charming either, it's plainly amateurish, all the melody lines are simplistic, but..... it's layers of simple notes and simple lines married to distorted dance genius that nobody who likes dance music will like, but people who thought early Franz Ferdinand were danceable will adore. Not to be taken seriously, so I god hope nobody does but a huge dollop of indie-dance-pop fun, all the same. ( reviewed 09.03.2008 )

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A pianist and singer/songwriter, Jason Soudah is currently based in Cardiff, England. He's been touring around such places as Ireland, Spain, Sweden and the US, his passionate vocal delivery and talent on the keys winning him fans wherever he's gone. He may not technically be the finest singer ever, but his delivery is certainly strong. His real talent lays with his piano playing and piano patters, always fascinating, beautiful and intriguing. This release is a five track EP lasting just under fifteen minutes. 'Dive With Me' and 'Six Hours' itself kick off the EP and both sound radio-friendly. Jason Soudah is not likely to get coverage in NME yet has already got airplay on BBC Radio 2. Whichever way his career goes, at the very least he could be a songwriter/session player. Here's hoping however that this batch of strong material ( with an album to follow ) gains him the size of audience he undoubtedly deserves. With songs of the quality of standout cut 'Roses', he deserves to make it as an artist in his own right. ( reviewed 13.02.2008 )

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A second single from the hotly tipped Johnny Foreigner. They've got some distinctive cartoon sleevework going on, following from the similarly styled artwork their debut boasted. This time around, well. The lead track is messy, noisy yet reminds me pleasantly of mid-nineties act Prolapse. We've got that same mix of dischordant guitars and alternating male/female vocals. I welcome Johnny Foreigner you know, because they have all these delightful rough edges to their sound. They clearly aren't The Klaxons or Kaisier Chiefs, you know, all polished and smooth and aiming to please would-be cool graduates. 'The Houseparty Scene Is Killing Us' is a clear artistic step, a mid-tempo piece with broken melodies crashing on the floor of your flat whilst the drummer auditions for Captain Beefheart. It's great stuff, it truly is. ( reviewed 2.02.2008 )

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Not returning as I expected with a second Grinderman LP, 'Dig Lazarus Dig' is both the new Nick Cave single and the title of his forthcoming solo album. It's built around an organ groove, musically has quite a linear structure and doesn't have the punch or aggression of Grinderman. Instead, such punch and/or aggression has been replaced by a classic set of Cave vocals and lyrics offering genuine menace. The song is a vamp essentially, with Cave offering up hilarious lyrics along the way to keep you listening. A good thing is, this is the kind of song that sounds better the more you listen to it, that addictive vampy organ riff just gets under your skin and the guitar parts are appropriately squally when they do appear. ( reviewed 2.02.2008 )

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Two original Queen members join Paul Rodgers for a free download and the first new Queen song since the immediate aftermarth of Freddie Mercury dying. This is a Rodger Taylor penned ballad and doesn't resemble the classic sound of Queen whatsoever, well, until post the two minute mark when the drums and guitars explode and....... well, it sounds like Queen. Not much to say about this tune really, it's not the best song on earth but as a taster for further new Queen material? Well, why not. Better than no new Queen material. The morals of doing this without two vital founding members is another matter, however. ( reviewed 2.02.2008 )

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Echo-laden guitars chime in stadium fashion. A bass line announces that Disco is still here, contrary to popular belief. The Klaxxons pop their heads round the door, but the mess in the room where The Pistolas have been playing is a bit of a blur, much like their songs. Well, The Pistolas have an exciting, energy packed sound, that much is for sure. Yet, they will need something akin to Franz Ferdinand's 'Take Me Out' to breakthrough, something to appeal beyond the narrow margins of the average NME reader. 'Hey Hey Hey' is certainly a blast though and B-Side 'The Wrong Stuff' continues in a squelchy, disco/rock/punk style, both modern and old-fashioned at the same time. ( reviewed 13.02.2008 )

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