We've listed singles/EPs/demos in order of star rating. Best first.
BATUSIS Smog Veil SV95
Watusi, Batsusi, Batusis who cares? 'Batusis' is an essential stripped down
return to primal rock & roll roots by some middle aged punks (you can call them
a Punk super group, whatever!) who throw down the gauntlet with an introductory
bone crunching self titled 4 track EP. Batusis may be great introduction to a
new band perhaps, but musically it's a slight return to a glorious fusion of
rock and roll and Punk, as the band blow the proverbial barn door off its
hinges.
Batusis features the overdrive of New York Dolls guitarist Sylvain Sylvain the
edgy punky presence of former Dead Boy guitarist Cheetah Chrome and the
thunderous Joan Jett rhythm section of Enzo Penizzotto on bass and the tub
thumping drummer Thommy Price. But this is no touch of the forelock to a roll
call of Punk's surviving Gods.
Rather 'Batusis' is the kind of 4 track EP/CD any self respecting rocker would
wish to make as their calling card. There's an essential drive, an edgy frisson
- make that real rock & roll energy - and above all a massive wall of noise
courtesy of producer Ken Coomer that gives Batusis its jet power.
This is glorious Big Beat where Punk meets Garage. The opening 'Blues' Theme' is
cute enough to reference both Dick Dale and Link Wray in a flat to the floor,
big pounding instrumental. There may be a thematic ZZ Top feel and a Keith
Richard riff on the intro of 'What You Lack In Brains' and some irreverent
derivative lyrics – 'what's she's lacking upstairs, she's got under her skirt' -
and even some stolen catchy 'woo woo's in the chorus, but hell it all rocks
magnificently.
Then there's a nice rumbling, grumbling feel and some effective
descending chords on 'Bury You Alive', anchored by the great line 'I want to
feel it when it all comes crashing down and buries you alive'. Cheetah's edgy
vocals drag you over the coals while some gnawing riffs bury their way deep in
your brain over a crunching rhythm section. Good rocking, sharp production and
the spirit of '77 in 2010 make this an essential track.
The whole caboodle is topped and tailed by two retro sounding Big Beat 50's
instrumentals. The aptly titled closing 'Big Cat Stomp' is full of raucous
finger bleeding, cat gut licks all drenched in a shower of sparks and is the
epitome of the band's credo.
Not so much a viagra driven flashback as a rock & roll meltdown powered by a
sheer joy de vivre, 'Batusis' reminds me of the rebirth of Mick Green's Pirates
in the late 70's, as rock and roll meets rhythm & blues, fired by punk energy
and driven by Garage band enthusiasm. They may be long in the tooth but this
musical hybrid delivers big time. Good rocking tonight, you betcha! *****
Review by Pete Feenstra
ULF Piece Of Promise EP
www.myspace.com/ulfofficial
This is a four-track promo
for the album 'Echo Promise' from this French four-piece who formed in
late-2006.
It's really good, from the opening track 'Final
Light' - all riffs and catchy hook lines - Alter Bridge is perhaps the best
reference. 'Hold On', 'Grudge' and 'Into The Fire' continue the quality
quotient and Shinedown is another comparison. But it is really the track
'Ulf' that sets the band out to be something a bit special.
The
longest here, it has an infectious guitar harmony motif and wonderful groove,
but breaks down into an end section that shows the band know how to wig-out too.
Encore! ****½
Review by David Randall
JONSI Go Do (Parlophone)
'Go Do' the three track CD/EP by Sigur Ros lead vocalist Jónsi Birgisson's is
one of those rare musical masterpieces in which the music perfectly evokes the
sentiment of the concept, if not always the lyrics which are sometime shard to
discern.
You probably don't need to know the mission statement of 'Go
Do' - "We should always know that we can do anything" - because the self help
positivism is already inherent in the timbre of Jonsi's nuanced vocal delivery.
Producer Nico Muhly offers a judicious mix of delicate
restraint and instrumental light and shade to embellish rather than dominate
Jonsi's epic vocal performance. 'Go Do', sets the listener a challenge to get up
and live life to the full; "You'll know how to, Just let yourself, fall into
landslide", but it is only in the innovative and trusted hands of producer Muhly
and angelic voice of its messenger that such a message becomes an elemental
force rather than another trite New Age slogan. There's a lovely uplift ing
sweep to the title track bolstered some manic dance beats, ethereal synths,
vocal swoops, sound loops in a glorious wall of tonal colouration.
Far more 'up' than anything he's done with his band Sigur Rós
and certainly less eclectic than his last all instrumental effort with his
partner Alex, Jonsi's real achievement here is that he has managed to compose
and arrange songs with Nico Muhly that are worthy of his startling vocal
interpretation. For make no mistake Jonsi has a totally unique voice.
Of course Anthony Hegarty (from Anthony And the Johnson's) has
a similar range and certainly touches similar emotions while Enja has explored
an ethereal Celtic ambient feel, but 'Go Do' is celestial and stratospheric.
And the real point of departure here is the way Jonsi is able
to imperceptibly switch his voice from its traditional front line role to using
his incredible range as an outer worldly instrument. The title track is a
glorious meeting of lyrical optimism, stop-start high octane dance beats and an
ethereal sweep.
On 'Kolniour' his voice soars alongside gentle insistent beats,
backward loops and a colourful uplifting wall of sound. A startling trio of
sonic explorations is completed by another breath taking vocal performance with
the hymnal opening of 'Grow Till Tall'. This song comprises slowly evolving
soundscapes and some beautifully judged phrasing that twists and turns the
vowels and their sumptuous delivery into a subtle meandering exploration of
Jonsi's remarkable falsetto.
The gradual increasing instrumental volume swells eventually
slowly envelop the singer as much as his wave of sonic magic captivates us all.
Just awesome! ****
Review by Pete Feenstra
INGRID MICHAELSON The Way I Am
The re-release of
the single that has already shifted over 1.5 million sales, and fueled the sale
of over 400,00 copies of her 2007 debut album Boys And Girls on her own label.
The success of the single followed it's exposure in an Old Navy
commercial, and Michaelson's profile was further enhanced by the song Keep
Breathing being used on the fade out for the final episode of the 2007 series of
Grey's Anatomy (watched by 25 million).
Since then, we've had two excellent albums - Boys And Girls,
and Everybody, which are set for re-release as a double album, and The Way I Am
has featured on the current American Idol series. More sales beckon for a piece
of perfect pop. ****
Review by Pete Whalley
ODi A Superman
Who is she? ODi, aka Claire Odlum,
is a new Irish singer songwriter for County Wexford, Ireland. Since posting some
early demo recordings on the web several years ago, she's played several hundred
gigs and supported luminaries such as Paddy Casey and Eleanor McEvoy.
What's it like? A Superman - originally released in 2008, is ODi's UK
debut single, preceding a UK autumn release of her debut album Maslow's
Songbook. It bears a striking similarity in style to the likes of Amy Wadge –
top draw vocals, and an easy on the ear style that falls just the right side of
the rock crossover line. And from what I've heard of the album on the web, she's
matured considerably as an artist, developing a sound like Lisa Hannigan on
steroids.
Should I buy? Yes. As a prelude to the release
of Maslow's Songbook, A Superman is an excellent building block. And the bonus
acoustic tracks recorded for radio sessions suggest that – like all the best
artists – she's equally impressive with just an acoustic guitar. A star is born.
****
Review by Pete Whalley
NATASCHA SOHL Fade
In truth Natascha's second album has
been something of a start-stop phenomenon, now at last getting a full release.
Interesting that they've chosen a ballad from what is essentially a feisty, rocky affair.
However it may be what is needed to cut through the current ether
that's
tainted by the next TV reality star in the making. Natascha is the real
deal and in a different musical climate would be huge. She may still
be, but investigate the album, we've been banging on about it for at least two
years and want to be in a smug position to tell you "we told you so". ****
Review by David Randall
TOBIAS SAMMET'S AVANTASIA
Dying For An Angel
The Edguy frontman's side project and
whilst it brings to mind Bon Jovi on the chorus, it is just the sort of anthemic
melodic rocker you want to hear as the sun shines after a cold winter.
From the album 'The Wicked Symphony', he is partnered by Scorpions' Klaus Meine,
so you get two great vocals for your money. What more do you need? ****
Review by David Randall
SCOUTING FOR GIRLS That Ain't A Love Song
The lead single from their forthcoming second album shows that Scouting For
Girls are about to pick up where they left off with their eponymous debut album.
That is, contagious piano led pop songs, big hits, big tours and Brits
nominations.
Having scrapped much of the material that was due to make their new album
Everyone Wants To Be On TV in a ruthless quality assurance exercise, Roy Stride
builds on the band's early charm and comes up with another sure fire hit.
Infuriatingly contagious. A massive hit. ****
Review
by Pete Whalley
YOU ME AT SIX Liquid Confidence
Having missed out (twice) to Bullet For My Valentine as Best British Band at
the 2008 and 2009 Kerrang Awards, You Me At Six must be wondering just what they
have to do.
Currently on their biggest tour, and now a quintet, Liquid Confidence is a big
indie pop number with an acoustic opening that explodes into a soaring, anthemic
number taken from their recently released 2nd album Hold Me Down.
With a great beat and big hooks and its radio friendly sound Liquid Confidence
is yet another signal of intent by You Me At Six. ***½
Review by Pete Whalley
MONSTERS IN THE ATTIC Be Lucky' EP (Onslaught Music)
Citing influences as diverse as Rocket From the Crypt and The Beach Boys, London
based band Monsters In The Attic mix punk, hard rock and rock n roll – with a
bit of B-Movie and tongue in cheek humour thrown in. 'Be Lucky' is the 3rd EP
from the band- and throughout the 7 tracks there is an apparent feeling that the
band are having fun- something too often missing in music these days.
Cockney front man Patch Barbet easily switches between rock and punk and this
works well with Tom Walding’s guitar work and the blues based bass from Ben
Wooster. With gang backing vocals, sing along songs and care free attitude, the
band have been building quite a fan base here in London and are shortly heading
for a stint in Europe and the US.
Highlights on this 7 track EP include title track 'Be Lucky', 'Gimme Some
Sugar', 'I’ll Be Damned' and the booze soaked 'Mojito'.
Catch the band live if you can as you are guaranteed a night of lively
entertainment if 'Be Lucky' is anything to go by. ***½
Review by Nikk Gunns
THE UNIVERSAL Day In Day Out
Who are they? A Liverpool band with a love for all things Mod, and based
around singer, guitarist and songwriter Terry Shaughnessy.
What's it like? Resurrecting the classic two and half minute pop/rock song
crafted by the likes of the Kinks and The Jam, Day In Day Out is an excellent
little number that manages to pilfer elements of the The Knack's My Sharona, add
a wonderfully menacing vocal and throw in some rock solid backing a terrific
hook. And the B-side The Time Has Come, shows that it was no fluke adding a raw
energy to a Weller influenced stonker.
Should I Buy? Absolutely. Infectious to the point of addiction, The
Universal have an attitude and grittiness that combined with their commercial
sensibilities surely makes them contenders for the next big thing. ***½
Review by Pete Whalley
EXIT STATE Death Of A Rockstar (King Prawn Records)
From the outset this rock album mixes power metal with indie and classic rock,
in a jangly grungy kind of way. Apparently likened to Foo Fighters, Nickelback
and Therapy. A couple of tracks have elements of punk too.
A lot heavier than I thought it would be, there are some good guitar riffs, but
I found the sound and production at times a little thin and jangly which, given
the aggressive undertones, just gave me a headache. ***
Review by Joe Geesin
THE OPERATION Come Clean Iota Recordings
Young up and coming UK band who release their debut single at the end of
May. This song reminded me a lot of Hard-Fi or the Killers, two bands at the
quality end of indie rock. On this one song alone The Operation are worth
seeking out and a name to keep an eye on in the coming months. ***
Review by Jason Ritchie
CIRKUS Bad Love
www.myspace.com/cirkusmusic
From their new / forthcoming album, this track opens with vocals/piano/guitar
and a very programmed feel, before it builds with a solid crescendo to a catchy
heavy indie song. Sounds pretty good, but there’s a couple of weird and annoying
fades / cuts, like someone’s done a really bad editing job. ***
Review by Joe Geesin
STARECAT Dum Dum/Big Nothin’
www.myspace.com/strikerm
Both tracks on this single are catchy punk rock with dirty guitars, plenty of
chops and decent female vocals. The kind of band you’d see at the Barfly in
Camden. Nods to Wire Daisies.
No finesse but a lot of fun, worth a listen. ***
Review by Joe Geesin
LIMOZINE Mutiny Girl / She Rocka Rolla (single)
www.myspace.com/limozine
Second single from Limozine, with elements of punk, metal and rock’n’roll.
Modern guitar pop with a very heavy retro feel. Think Stooges, Ramones, and the
press release mentions The Cramps too.
The B-side has more primitive garage feel. ***
Review by Joe Geesin
BROKEN CITY SKYLINE City Lights
Broken City Skyline, a band of brothers (plus friend Danni on bass) from the
Valleys serve up an almost Springsteen-esque sound on this self penned, produced
and packaged single that's available for download on iTunes, Amazon etc.
Although claiming far heavier influences (Maiden, Korn, Valentine and the likes)
City Lights does indeed have many of the hallmarks of The Boss's Born To Run
output - especially the piano lines running over the chorus guitar chords. All
they need is a decent studio / producer and Clarence Clemons to add a few sax
runs.
Yet another sign that rock is alive, and well, and living in Wales. ***
Review by Pete Whalley
THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM American Slang (single)
The title track from their forthcoming new album, it has a strong punchy rhythm,
and mixes hard rock, guitar pop and the heavy end of 80s rock/pop (think Big
Country beefed up).
A touch anthemic. Worth a listen. ***
Review by Joe Geesin
LIMOZINE Mutiny Girl / She Rocka Rolla
www.myspace.com/limozine
Second single from Limozine, with elements of punk, metal and rock’n’roll.
Modern guitar pop with a very heavy retro feel. Think Stooges, Ramones, and the
press release mentions The Cramps too.
The B-side has more primitive garage feel. ***
Review by Joe Geesin
EXIT STATE Death Of A Rockstar (King Prawn Records)
From the outset this rock album mixes power metal with indie and classic rock,
in a jangly grungy kind of way. Apparently likened to Foo Fighters, Nickelback
and Therapy. A couple of tracks have elements of punk too.
A lot heavier than I thought it would be, there are some good guitar riffs, but
I found the sound and production at times a little thin and jangly which, given
the aggressive undertones, just gave me a headache. ***
Review by Joe Geesin
IGNITION Take Me There (Rainfall)
'Take Me There' is the first single to be taken from Ignition's forthcoming
debut album 'Silver Sun'. Within this Northern Irish bands sound you can hear
influences such as Oasis and Pearl Jam, however, it is hard to judge a band on
just one song. 'Take Me There' features a fair amount of acoustic guitar, but my
money is on the album having a far heavier sound to it.
Ignition is certainly a band to keep an ear out for. ***
Review by Nikk Gunns
MODERN CLICHES Falseness & Fairytales EP
London three piece Modern Clichés may have missed the boat. They announced
their debut with a self titled ep back in 2006, following it up by recording the
single You Don't Know What You Want To Be - a terrific little number that sounds
like The Arctics / Alex Turner meet a bit of punky rock - back in December 2007.
And the title track is equally addictive, with a hint of funk thrown in for good
measure.
That single is now, or will shortly be available as a download single. And
excellent as it is, the Monkeys sound has been done to death by a million others
and they, and the world, have moved on since then. ***
Review by Pete Whalley
BULLiT Get With It (EP)
www.myspace.com/bullituk
4 track EP with a 70s/80s pop, punk and new wave feel. Opening track 'Cheetahs'
leans a lot to The Police. 'Crazy' also has an off-beat, and nods to Nine Below
Zero and again The Police.
Retro guitar pop with punk touches. A little aimless at times. **½
Review by Joe Geesin
RUN FROM ROBOTS Sorry You Don’t Love Us (mini album)
www.myspace.com/runfromrobotsofficial
Six track mini album from this young band, and it is a very energetic set.
Uptempo punk metal. There are touches of melody, a lot of Green Day only a lot
more aggressive. At times the guitar is a little jangly in alt metal terms, and
several tracks are a little samey.
Available online in June, but I’d have a listen first. **½
Review by Joe Geesin
INSANE Our Island Our Empire (Edge Records)
This new album from Hungarian band Insane, is just that. Insane. The intro is
programmed nu-metal, before the first full track comes in. Loudly. LOUDLY.
That track, 'Something Is In The Wind', kicks off like having your ear drums
running into a brick wall that is covered in sandpaper and shouting back at you.
Yes it’s brutal and the volume is on 11, the shouting distorts. By the time you
get to some grunge-like quieter bits, or Maiden like guitar, you are already too
deaf and/or pissed off to appreciate it. Not that I’d ever appreciate anything
remotely grunge like.
The next track opens with some indie chords, before the same brutality comes in
and, well, bollocks, I’m skipping that track. In fact this forced me to skip
through the whole album before throwing it away. En route to the bin I found
elements of trad metal, crossover, emo and jazz. But it’s all done so loudly, so
brutally, so distorted. It’s like a music mix that’s been put through the
blender, turned up louder than roadworks and shoved in your face.
No. *½
Review by Joe Geesin
THE BIG BANG CLUB Chemistry
Who are they? The vocalist and synth player from Protocol - a band signed at
their first gig by Polydor and who subsequently toured with the likes of A-Ha
and Hard-Fi. Their half shaved/bleached hair was not a selling point and the
band split.
What's it like? Abba meet Pet Shop Boys meet Prince at a gay disco.
Should I Buy? A resounding 'no'. *
Review by Pete Whalley
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