Thursday 29 January 2009

News - st Can't Get Enough of The Saturdays

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The Saturdays are going to release the official Comic Relief single for Red Nose Day 2009 on the 2nd of March. The track is "Just Can't Get Enough" a cover of the Depeche Mode song.

Mollie of The Saturdays had this to say about recording the Comic Relief single: "I am so so excited that we have been asked to do the Comic Relief song. It’s such a big compliment and it’s so nice to be helping such a good cause. I’ve always dreamt of doing something like this from being a little girl! I remember watching the Spice Girls doing "Who Do You Think You Are" and now it’s us! I cannot wait!" Speaking of the song itself, Rochelle said "it's a classic 80's song and a track that everybody knows and can have fun with."

News - Firewind Tour Dates

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Firewind tour dates:

21.02.2009 London (UK) - Hellfire Festival

Supporting Stratovarius

15.05.2009 Wolverhampton (UK) - Wulfrun Hall
16.05.2009 Nottingham (UK) - Rock City
17.05.2009 Glasgow (UK) - Cathouse
18.05.2009 London (UK) - Islington O2 Academy
19.05.2009 Manchester(UK) - Academy 2
20.05.2009 Dublin (IE) - Button Factory

FIREWIND - Summer Festivals 2009

29.05.2009 Gelsenkirchen (D) - Rock Hard Festival
26.06.2009 Dessel (B) - Graspop Metal Meeting
14.08.2009 Dinkelsbühl (D) - Summer Breeze Festival
.more dates to follow soon.

News - Slaves To Gravity March UK Dates

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Slaves To Gravity have some March dates:

MARCH
06 Cambridge, The Junction
12 Swindon, 12 Bar
13 Harlow, The Square
14 Folkestone, The Lanterns

News - Hey! Watch The Auteur...

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The Auteur release their debut single "Hey! Watch This..." on the 30th of March through LAB records. The band also has the following live dates lined up:

8 Feb - Tap n Tin w/ Not Advised Chatham
9 Feb - iBar w/ Out Of Sight, All Or Nothing & Not Advised Bournemouth
10 Feb - Hub w/ Out Of Sight, All Or Nothing & Not Advised Exeter
13 Feb - Met Lounge w/ Out Of Sight Peterborough
14 Feb - Portsmouth Cellars w/ Not Advised Portsmouth
16 Feb - West End Centre w/ Canterbury & Not Advised Aldershot
19 Feb - Ocean Rooms (Hot Damn! Club Night) Brighton
20 Feb - Purple Turtle (Hot Damn! Club Night) Camden
21 Feb - Nags Head w/Out Of Sight, All Or Nothing & Not Advised High Wycombe
1 Mar - Tap n Tin w/ Mimi Soya Chatham
3 Mar - Slam Dunk Presents: The Cockpit w/ Left Right Goodnight Leeds
19 Mar - Hamptons w/ Canada Water Southampton

Wednesday 28 January 2009

News - Doves: Kingdom of Rust

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Doves will release their new album "Kingdom of Rust" on the 6th of April, which is to be preceded by the single "Kingdom Of Rust" on the 30th of March, both through Heavenly Recordings.

Track Listing:

1. Jetstream
2. Kingdom of Rust
3. The Outsiders
4. Winter Hill
5. 10.03
6. The Greatest Denier
7. Birds Flew Backwards
8. Spellbound
9. Compulsion
10. House Of Mirrors
11. Lifelines

Tour dates for March:

12th - Parr Hall, Warrington
13th - Empire, Middlesbrough
15th - ABC, Glasgow
17th - Kasbah, Coventry
18th - Pyramid Centre, Portsmouth
19th - Forum, Kentish Town London

Tickets are on sale 30th January go to www.doves.net for details.

News - Twin Atlantic Headline Tour Dates

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Twin Atlantic have the following headline tour dates lined up:

Sat 7th: GLASGOW, QMU
Sun 8th: NEWCASTLE, o2 Academy 2
Mon 9th: MANCHESTER, Roadhouse
Wed 11th: CARDIFF, Barfly
Fri 13th: LONDON, International Live Music Conference 21 (Venue TBA)

News - Rules And Games Of Funeral for a Friend

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Funeral for a Friend will release their new single "Rules And Games" on the 23rd of March through their own label Join Us Records.

Tour dates:

Mon 23 Mar PONTYPRIDD Muni Arts Centre
Tue 24 Mar DERBY University
Wed 25 Mar GLASGOW QMU
Fri 27 Mar LEEDS Rios
Sat 28 Mar LONDON ULU
Mon 30 Mar SHEFFIELD University Foundry
Tue 31 Mar NORTHAMPTON Roadmender

We Are The Ocean will be main support. Opener TBC shortly.

News - Young Guns Live Dates Lined Up

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Young Guns have these upcoming live dates:

FEBRUARY
Wed 4th: MANCHESTER, Pop Bubble Rock (w/ Haunts)
Thu 5th: LONDON, South of the Border
Fri 6th: LONDON, ULU (w/ We Are The Ocean)
Sat 21st: SOUTHAMPTON, Hamptons (w/ Outcry Collective)

MARCH
Thu 12th: SWINDON, 12 Bar (w/ Slaves To Gravity)
Fri 13th: LONDON, o2 Islington Bar Academy (w/ Lights Action)

News - The Lights New Single

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Submitted: "The Lights have just recorded their new single, Low Hundreds / Formerly Yours, at The Magic Garden Studios in Wolverhampton. The single, set for release in May, is produced by renowned producer Gavin Monaghan, who has recently recorded with Travis, Editors & Kings of Leon."

Tuesday 27 January 2009

News - Maximo Park May UK Tour

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Maximo Park will tour the UK in May:

Tickets go on sale Friday 30th January at 10am and are available from www.gigsandtours.com (all dates except Glasgow) and www.ticketweb.co.uk (Glasgow only).

MAY

14 NEWCASTLE - Academy - tickets £16.50
15 GLASGOW - Academy - tickets £16.50
16 LIVERPOOL - University - tickets £16.50
18 SOUTHAMPTON - Guildhall - tickets £16.50
19 BIRMINGHAM - Academy - tickets £16.50
20 NOTTINGHAM - Rock City - tickets £16.50
22 LEEDS - Academy - tickets £16.50
23 MANCHESTER - Academy - tickets £16.50
24 NORWICH - UEA - tickets £16.50
27 LONDON - Brixton Academy - tickets £17.50
28 BRISTOL - Academy - tickets £16.50

Monday 26 January 2009

Review - Various - ATP- NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS. Curated by Mike Patton and The Melvins - 5th, 6th and 7th of December 2008

Various - ATP- NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS. Curated by Mike Patton and The Melvins - 5th, 6th and 7th of December 2008

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10 out of 10

KILL ME TOMORROW- Seemed to be sporting a new line up, minus the leggy blonde, which concerned me, however the same high standard of performance ensued . Tribal, upright drumming, angular guitar work and repetitive, almost persuasive vocals. I really do like this band, this is the second time I have seen them and they didn't disappoint, it was just a shame they were on so early.

MELVINS 1983- The original line up from the eighties, performing their punk influenced material from that period. Sounding a bit like every other American punk outfit from the eighties, I get the impression that if King Buzzo was not involved this band may not have been received too well, however mercifully they only played for about twenty minutes and I think people enjoyed this view into the past of one of the best stoner rock bands ever.

TWEAK BIRD- The brothers Bird graced our Friday night with some fine, stripped down southern rock, at times down tempo, they really made the most of the drums and single guitar to achieve a ground shaking wall of noise. On a side note, their 7" is also a cracking listen.

BIG BUSINESS- Had technical difficulties at the start of their set which ruined their sound levels for the initial ten minutes, with the addition of their auxiliary guitar player however the sound rapidly improved as they blazed off numerous party classics befitting of a much later scheduling, rather than the disappointing 6.15pm

THE LOCUST- were absolutely clinical, I am always surprised with this bands tightness, considering the blistering pace with which they perform. Opening with segments of 'The Plague Soundscapes' then following through with most of 'New Erections' this show was amazing from start to finish , I wished they had played for longer.

ISIS- A strong performance from the veterans of post-doom, their sheer volume tore through centre stage as they precisely transversed through old classics such as 'grinning mouths' along side newer, more tonal material, a triumphant set from the LA quintet.

PORN- are an improvisational noise collective featuring members of : Melvins, Fantomas, and Big Business , They showered down on us with Blocks of low frequency drone, dual drumming and superphased guitar/keyboard work befitting of their 2am positioning . They were also accompanied by Brent Hinds of Mastodon who promptly fell about the place, knocking over equipment and generally playing the guitar in a hilarious manner. Porn may have been the only band of the weekend who filled their time slot, and then some. Butlins security had to pretty much pull them off stage after what seemed like a day- long set. All in all, a great party performance.

MASTODON- Were minus a member for the weekend, guitarist Bill had been taken ill, which I feared would impact badly on the performance. Happily though I was proved wrong by the remaining members, who stepped up to the plate and were as twiddley and as brutal as ever, pulling off classics such as 'Hearts Alive' and 'The Wolf is Loose' with deadly precision. During their second performance of the weekend they were joined by the melvins onstage to create even more noise, A special moment in time.

FENNESZ- good old Christian, supplied exactly what you would expect from this noise thoroughbred, sheets of white noise with a tonal, very soothing edge . watching a fennesz show is always a heart warming experience , and this was no exception.

MELVINS- These guys were pretty much on stage all weekend in one guise or another , phenomenal stamina from the aging doom rockers, particularly considering that King Buzzo donned a thick black trench-coat during most sets. Their new line-up , featuring two drummers brings a more polyrhythmic edge to a tremendous guitar sound. They performed a lot of their new record 'Nude With Boots' as well as highlights from the back catalogue.

FANTOMAS- Patton et al, performed 'the directors cut' twice over the weekend, we were also blessed with all of the films featured via the medium of ATP TV. They really excelled above all expectation, even in the absence of Dave Lombardo, Fantomas were as brutal and wild as ever. Worthy co- curators!

SQUAREPUSHER- Now owns music as far as I am concerned. This performance was, by far, the best at this festival. 2 hours of banging electronica along with live drumming, bass playing and visuals, all of the highest order. If you get a chance , go and see squarepusher on this tour ,he is the dictionary definition of 'next level'

JOE LALLY- A welcome treat for a hung over Sunday morning, the ex-fugazi legend was on good form. Rolling bass lines accompanied some relatively avant garde guitar work, mainly bowed, as well as chirpy , repetitive vocals reminded me of the work Joe did with Jon frusciante in 'Ataxia' but more upbeat.

MONOTONIX- Tel Aviv based garage rockers take the biscuit for most ridiculous live show at the festival, they set up on the floor then spent half an hour sailing round the venue , riding on top of the bass drum, being held 7ft in the air by the crowd, who were pretty boisterous themselves, this behaviour culminated in Monotonix finishing the show outside the venue , wrestling security guards and shouting in Hebrew.. brilliant!

DALEK- Ipecac's favourite hip hop combo, sporting an expanded line-up for the weekend , featuring lap steel guitars and extra laptop noise. They took a while to warm up but once the sound engineers had got their heads around what was happening it developed into the best Dalek performance I have witnessed, far louder than normal with a richness of sound surrounding the tight hip hop beats and clinical rhyme delivery.

DOUBLE NEGATIVE- Straight down-the-line hardcore punk, just what the doctor ordered for 2am on a Monday morning, suddenly from out of nowhere, men without shirts were running from side to side flailing their arms. A very intense performance from this Californian quartet, bar chords and distorted bass rained down for all of fifteen minutes and then it was all over.

Tracklist:

News - Severe Zero - New Line Up / German Tour

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Submitted: "Severe Zero are heading off to Germany for a mini tour in February.

They will play the following live dates:

Thursday 26th February - Headcrash, Hamburg
Saturday 28th February - Gassi’s Sports Bar, Kiel
Thursday 5th March - Knaack, Berlin
Friday 6th March - MTC, Köln
Saturday 7th March - Turock, Essen

They’ll be heading over there with their new line up, after sudden departure of guitarist and backing vocals, Jamie.
"Just after the Christmas break Jamie announced that he was leaving the band", said lead singer Luke Bond. "We were stunned as Jamie has contributed to the band since we formed two years ago, and helped to make it was it is today. We are very sorry to see him go, but we wish him well for the future, whatever he chooses to do.

"As a band we have always been very conscious that our music needs to evolve and grow, and it almost seems as if fate was lending a hand as for the last few months we have been working closely with another talented musician, bassist and singer, Joe Brewer. Our drummer, Frank Rawle, was previously in a band with Joe called Hollowpoint, and the three of us are great mates. We play football together on Sundays and will often spend what little spare time we've got when we're not having a band practise playing on X Box live.

"Joe fits naturally into the band and has been working really hard learning all our songs", said Luke. "I'm still the lead vocalist and now lead guitarist, whilst Frank does what he does best- keeps pushing the boundaries with the drums in order that our adrenaline fuelled sound reaches audiences of all ages."

"At the moment we are putting in every spare moment we can into the band as we have been picked to feature on the Red Stripe Music Awards on January 23 at the Phoenix in Exeter. It's an18+ gig, and if any fans want to come down and support us, please let us know and we can organise a minibus.""

News - Chimaira Album Art To Be Revealed...

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Submitted: "Chimaira have put a countdown online to reveal their new album artwork of the forthcoming record "The Infection" which will be out in Europe via Nuclear Blast Records on April 24th."

News - A Behemoth Of A Recording

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Behemoth are going to enter the Radio Gdansk studio on February the 16th. The new album will be produced by Nergal and Behemoth (with additional co-producing by Daniel Bergstrand and the Wieslawscy Brothers).

All stages of production are being filmed so fans will have direct and in-depth access at their leisure. The first in a series of episodes documenting the making of the band’s new album has been posted here: http://uk.youtube.com/behemothofficial

Behemoth’s still untitled new album is expected to be released in the winter of 2009.

News - Mastodon - Divinations

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Mastodon have added their new track "Divinations" to their MySpace page. The song comes from their new album "Crack The Sky" which has been released today.

News - This Town Needs Guns February Tour

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This Town Needs Guns have a lengthy tour of the UK and Ireland coming up in February:

30.01 - Leeds, The Library (w/ Wintermute)
31.01 - Sheffield, The Red House
03.02 - Birmingham, Barfly
04.02 - Liverpool, Barfly
05.02 - Dublin, Whelan’s
06.02 - Cork, Fred Zeppelin’s
07.02 - Limerick, Bakers Place
12.02 - York, Fibbers
13.02 - Glasgow, Barfly
14.02 - Aberdeen, Moshulu
18.02 - London, Barfly
19.02 - Oxford, The Cellar
20.02 - Cardiff, Barfly
21.02 - Worcester, The Firefly
26.02 - Exeter, The Cavern
27.02 - Brighton, The Hope
28.02 - Norwich, The Queen Charlotte

Their debut album "Animals" will be released in the USA in March.

News - Copy Haho Debut EP & Tour Announced

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Copy Haho’s debut EP called "Bred For Skills & Magic" is being released on the 23rd of February through BSM Records. You can pre-order the CD now for £6.00 from www.bsmrocks.com/shop.

The first 50 to order will also receive a very limited edition Copy Haho poster.

The band are on tour in February with The Xcerts at the following dates:

02.02 - Edinburgh, Sneaky Pete’s
03.02 - Aberdeen, Cafe Drummonds
04.02 - Inverness, Mad Hatters
05.02 - Dundee, The Dog House
06.02 - Sunderland, White Room
08.02 - Hitchin, Club 85
09.02 - Guildford, Boiler Room
10.02 - Southampton, Hamptons
11.02 - London, Old Blue Last
13.02 - Chatham, Tap n Tin
14.02 - Hertford, Marquee

News - Blakfish Studio Update

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An update from BSM Records about Blakfish: "It feels like an eternity since the rowdy Brummies Blakfish packed their bags and left for the US to record their forthcoming debut album with up and coming producer Chris Common (AKA the drummer from These Arms Are Snakes). It’s still another week until they return to us, but judging by the videos they’ve been posting over at www.blakfish.com they’re having a fine time!"

News - BSM Records: Signing 2

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Wintermute have signed to BSM Records. Their limited edition 3" CD single called "Dead Or Not He Was Wearing Sunglasses" will be released on the 2nd of February, followed by their first album titled "Robot Works", which will be out at the end of April.

News - BSM Records: Signing 1

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The Tupolev Ghost have signed to BSM Records. Their currently untitled mini-album will be released at the end of March.

Sunday 25 January 2009

Review - Guns N’ Roses - Better (Single)

Guns N’ Roses - Better (Single)

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7 out of 10

What we have here is Axl Rose's attempt to write an Rn'B track in a sort of way, I'd say he was trying to modernise Gn'R. The song starts well and you can really hear the modern style and melody but it was almost inevitable that it wouldn't last long and by the time the chorus kicks in we're back to the old Guns n' Roses style which seems to stick around right until the end when we go back to the Rn'B stylings. It is like 2 songs stuck together and even though the song is called Better, I think the word is used slightly too much, the chorus itself is quite laughable. The guitars on this track though really stand out as the best thing about it.

Listen: www.myspace.com/gunsnroses

Tracklist:
1. Better

Review - Lily Allen - The Fear (Single)

Lily Allen - The Fear (Single)

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8 out of 10

Gone is the sunny ska pop of 'Smile' and 'LDN' and in comes humanised, electro-pop in the style of Hot Chip on Lily Allen's comeback single, 'The Fear' - the first from new album 'It's Not Me, It's You', due in February. And it's the best song she's done so far for it, putting her way out in front of all those she's been lumped together with, or will be in the coming months (Kate Nash, Duffy, Adele, Little Boots, La Roux - and when did being a women in your 20s become a scene/genre, anyway?).

Lyrically as sharp, potty-mouthed and nifty as ever, "I want lots of money/I don't care about clever, I don't care about funny," she sings even though she's both. Faux-stupid lines like, "I want fuck loads of diamonds/I heard people while they're trying to find them," show how smart she is. Her shift covering for Zane Lowe earlier in January showed how funny she is (it was brilliant; find it online if you haven't heard it). Lily Allen has gone through shit - depression, drugs, break-ups, a miscarriage - and come out the other side, artistically at least, as a brilliant pop star off record and more importantly, on record.

Listen: www.myspace.com/lilymusic

Tracklist:
1. The Fear
2. Fag Hag

Review - New Regency - Role Models

New Regency - Role Models

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8 out of 10

Following an energy drink fuelled bender, Danny (Rudd) and his colleague Wheeler (Scott) are arrested for destroying their company car. Faced with the prospect of jail, the pair are given the opportunity to atone for their mistake by mentoring two troubled children, Augie (Mintz-Plasse) & Ronnie (Thompson). Never has jail looked so appealing.

I believe it was W.C. Fields who once said 'Never work with children or animals.' A statement I'm sure both Danny & Wheeler would agree with. Well, the children part anyway. But if Role Models proves to be a success it could be (in part) as a result of the performances of its young charges, Christopher Mintz-Plasse & Bobb'e J. Thompson.

Building upon his performance as Superbad's now iconic geek, McLovin', Mintz-Plasse's Augie is no less a geek but more endearing and engaging. This does not make him any less funny though, especially when advising Danny to tell his ex-girlfriend Beth (Banks) that he misses her 'whispering eye'. Thompson's Ronnie is no shrinking violet either. A growth spurt away from being the next Chris Rock or Dave Chappelle, Ronnie's verbal onslaughts and mischievous antics keep Scott's Wheeler on his toes and would leave even social services clambering for assistance.

Significant though the minors are, it is Rudd and Scott that are the real impetuous behind the movie. Rudd's cynicism and dry wit combined with Scott's energy and playground put downs will make for repeat viewing. Danny's discontent with his job is having a major bearing on his home life and results in his girlfriend leaving him. Wheeler's situation couldn't be any more different. He loves his job, has few responsibilities and hopes the Minotaur party never ends. Like Paula Abdul sang, opposites attract and this is why the duo functions.

Whilst director David Wain should be commended for drawing the best from the comic talent on show, he should be applauded for not allowing the film to descend into sentimental mush. Though the guilty duo make further mistakes before realising the error of their ways, Wain presents it in such a way that the laughs continue to come rather than allowing the characters to become consumed with guilt.

With Rudd's stock continuously rising and Scott reminding us of why we first came to love him, combined with the performances of the supporting cast, Role Models is sure to find a place in every comedy connoisseurs' collection.

Movie Website: www.rolemodelsmovie.com

Cast List:

Danny Donahue: aul Rudd
Wheeler: Sean William Scott
Augie Farks: Christopher Mintz-Plasse
Ronnie Shields: Bobb'e J. Thompson
Beth: Elizabeth Banks
Gayle Sweeny: Jane Lynch

Tracklist:

Review - Daniel Merriweather - Change (Single)

Daniel Merriweather - Change (Single)

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8 out of 10

Following on from appearing in two Mark Ronson albums and other peoples songs Daniel Merriweather has now brought out his first single 'Change'. On which you can definitely still hear the influence of Ronson, but that only plays to Merriweather's strengths as a great soul singer. Such smooth vocals are juxtaposed on here by fellow Allido Records (Ronson's Label) artist Wale who supplies the rap vocals. On this CD you get not just the single version but a rap free one, a virtually unrecognizable dance version, another mix which has an interesting take on the song and the instrumental at the end.

The music itself is a joy to listen to and has Ronson written all over it, but it really works with Daniel's vocal layered on top like a silk blanket. Oh and one final thing is that the CD I received makes it look like a miniature old school vinyl and comes in a not only a cardboard sleeve but a paper inner sleeve to complete the effect.

Listen: www.myspace.com/danielmerriweather

Tracklist:
1. Change feat. Wale
2. Change without Rap
3. Change The Count's 'Doin' it' Remix
4. Change Firstman Remix
5. Change Instrumental

Review - The All-American Rejects - Gives You Hell (Single)

The All-American Rejects - Gives You Hell (Single)

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8 out of 10

When this track started I thought have The All American Rejects gone electro, but then when the guitars do start up they're back into their pop punk way. One thing about Gives You Hell is that it reminded me of another song and only when I came to write up the review did I realise it does sound quite similar to Smash Mouth's 'All Star'. So that gives you an idea of what you get from them, but of course that's only the first half of the song and the crowd chanting the chorus towards the end sounds ace. Overall a great song to sing-along to when inebriated, especially if you've ever been jilted.

Listen: www.myspace.com/allamericanrejects

Tracklist:
1. Gives You Hell

Review - Ida Maria - My God (Single)

Ida Maria - My God (Single)

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8 out of 10

I first came across Ida Maria in late 2007 when I saw a feature about her in a magazine I picked up in a really dodgy gay club I went to after a gig in London. I had no idea who she was and from what I read about her, I expected to hear music along the same lines as Sneakerpimps or Bjork but instead I found myself being assaulted by an amazingly powerful voice which displays fragility and force in equal measure.

This single is far more force than fragility and it begs nothing more from the listener than to just stand there and receive a glorious beating! It's a simple song in structure, repetitive and loud-very loud, but one which wouldn't work in any other way and everything a good pop song should be, full of attitude with a melody line that ANYONE could sing/shout along to. If like me you got a sudden rush of adrenaline when you first heard a song by The Cribs then this will really appeal to you.

If you ever hear it live, expect to feel the painful thud of a size 9 Converse shoe hit your head every 20 seconds as its perfect for crowd surfers and it will also be the song you'll be singing all night on the campsite at the end of a long day at the rock festival.

Listen: www.myspace.com/idamaria

Tracklist:
1. Oh My God

Review - Paramount - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Paramount - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

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8 out of 10

Born with a disorder that sees him become younger as he grows older, Benjamin Button's (Pitt) life can be described as anything other than ordinary. Abandoned at birth, Benjamin's journey to infancy consists of illness, war, love and loss. Whoever said 'you can't teach an old dog new tricks' clearly hadn't accounted for this.

Having been linked to the F. Scott Fitzgerald adaptation for some time, The Curious Case... sees director David Fincher reunited with his Fight Club compatriot, Brad Pitt. Apart, though they may have been for some time, the two clearly enjoy each other's company; Fincher guiding Pitt through potentially his most complete & compelling performance. As much as the prosthetics and special effects allow Pitt to play Benjamin in all his guises, it is the emotion, tenderness and curiosity that Pitt lends to the character that give him real life.

Though Benjamin's ailment is a key factor to the audience embracing the character, it is the relationships he enjoys with those he encounters on his journey (Mr. Oti, Captain Mike, Elizabeth Abbott) that allow the character to grow and the film to progress. This is none more evident than in the scenes with Daisy, played (in part) by Pitt's Babel co-star, Cate Blanchett. Their paths cross at various points in each other's lives, each meeting presenting a new obstacle that seems destined to keep them apart. And it is via Daisy that Benjamin's story comes to be told; Blanchett's on-screen daughter, Caroline (Ormond) recalling events as recorded in Benjamin's diary.

Fincher is as much an integral part to the film's success as the acting talent on show. His imaging of the elderly Benjamin, visualising the numerous locales and eras the film encompasses, as well as interspersing the sombre moments with Mr. Daws' retelling of the times he had been electrocuted, give the film a level of depth and charm comparable to Forrest Gump, Big Fish and Amelie.

Though the film wavers slightly when Benjamin encounters Elizabeth Abbott, and the accounts of Benjamin's final years feels rushed, it is easy to see why the film and Pitt have been listed for Oscar honours. While Pitt has enjoyed box office success with the likes of Ocean's Eleven (& its sequels) and Mr & Mrs Smith, he has managed to build on the critical acclaim he enjoyed for Babel and The Assassination of Jesse James.

Movie Website: www.benjaminbutton.com

Cast List:

Benjamin Button: Brad Pitt
Daisy: Cate Blanchett
Caroline: Julia Ormond
Elizabeth Abbott: Tilda Swinton
Queenie: Taraji P. Henson
Thomas Button: Jason Flemyng

Tracklist:

Review - Hervé - Ghetto Bass

Hervé - Ghetto Bass

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7 out of 10

DJ and producer Joshua Harvey has a lot of names - he's The Count Of Monte Cristal ('The Count' half of The Count & Sinden), Action Man, Young Lovers, and Herve, as he is here; as well as being part of Machine's Don't Care with Sinden, Toddla T and others. These multiple identities have allowed him to be popular (knocking on the door of club stardom with TC&S single 'Beeper', and euphoric indie-disco with Kissy Sellout) and cheesy (check his raved-up versions of Metallica and Michael Jackson), and stay connected to the underground (with his label, Cheap Thrills).

This mix covers both sides of Harvey's repertoire, almost neatly divided by the two discs. Disc one is populist, rowdy, not subtle and occasionally clichéd. There are plenty of heavy indie-dance and funky house synths and 4/4 beats from Justice, Mr Oizio, Kissy Sellout, SebAstian and remixes of Bloc Party and The Chemical Brothers - as well as tracks and remixes from Herve, The Count & Sinden (weird, bass-and-fuzz-heavy house), Action Man (funky and hyperactive), and MDC (the dance equivalent of a jam band; playing the music they love - 90s hardcore, trance and rave). But this is music for dancing not pondering over.

Disc one is also used by Herve to show off his mates' stuff, which is going to be released on Cheap Thrills later this year: Jack Beats futuristic wobble-rave, Rico Tubbs tropical house and Fake Blood's multicoloured 90s throwbacks. There's little of the bassline, drum & bass or dubstep advertised on the cover - that's on disc two, which is harder to dance too but probably more interesting. It's more nuanced and spacious (the sounds of public transport fill in the gaps nicely), and there's loads of womp.

Dubstep is represented by dons of the scene. Skream has a lightness of touch on 'One For The Heads.' that shows dubstep isn't all murk and bass (although 'Filth' is one of his darker, less melodic tracks); Caspa's drum & bass remix of TC is relentless; and Benga's 'Crunked Up' is as perfect an introduction to the music as you'll get in two-and-a-half minutes. There's also Harvey's take, as the scratchy, soulful Young Lovers and more Count & Sinden. There's rowdiness too, on the nasty remix of multinational hip-hop group Foreign Beggars - smeared with distorted electro barbs - and a crunching, techno re-work of Lisbon's Buraka Som Systema's riotous 'kuduro'.

Fittingly for such a personalised set, it ends with Harvey collaborating with himself as The Count & Herve on 'Jungle Steppers' - or, all the sounds listed above thrillingly going off at once.

Listen: www.myspace.com/hervespace

Tracklist:
Disc One:
1. Jack Beats - Get Down
2. Rico Tubbs - Hip Rave Anthem
3. Justice - Let There Be Light (DJ Funk remix)/The Count Of Monte Cristal - Bounce Beat
4. Nasa - Money (featuring David Byrne, Chuck D, Seu Jorge, Ras Congo & Z-Trip) (The Count remix)
5. Project Bassline - Drop The Pressure (The Count's Conquistador remix)
6. Fake Blood - Mars (Herve remix)
7. Mr Oizo - Gay Dentist
8. His Majesty Andre - Peep Thong
9. Bloc Party - Mercury (Herve Is In Disarray remix)
10. Machines Don't Care - Drop It To The Floor
11. Human Resource - Dominator (Herve remix)
12. Jack Beats - What (Dub) (featuring Dynamite MC)
13. Machine's Don't Care - Junk
14. The Kills - Cheap And Cheerful (SebAstian remix)
15. Machine's Don't Care - Beat Bang (Action Man remix)
16. Action Man - Alarm Bell
17. Kidda - Under The Sun (Herve's Ain't No Sunshine remix)
18. The Chemical Brothers - Salmon Dance (Herve remix)
19. Herve & Kissy Sellout - Rikkalicious

Disc Two:
1. Young Lovers - Shake Off The Ghosts
2. Skream - One For The Heads Who Remember
3. Zomby - Rumours And Revolutions
4. Darqwan - Said The Spider
5. Skream - Filth
6. Jokers Of The Scene - Baggy Bottom Boys (DZ remix)
7. Foreign Beggars vs Rogue A Levres - Hit That Gash (Itchy Naan remix)
8. The Count & Sinden - Stinging Nettle
9. Benga - Crunked Up
10. Chase & Status - Eastern Jam
11. Buraka Som Systema - Kalemba (Reso's Aguardente remix)
12. The Count & Sinden - Hardcore Girls (Project Bassline remix)
13. Piddy Py - Giggle Riddim
14. TC - Where's My Money? (Caspa remix/Jack Beats re-edit)
15. Project Bassline - Drop The Pressure
16. The Count Of Monte Cristal & Herve - Jungle Steppers

Review - Alloy Entertainment - Sex Drive

Alloy Entertainment - Sex Drive

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7 out of 10

When high-school reject Ian (Zuckerman) is presented with the opportunity to lose his virginity by online acquaintance, Miss Tasty (Bowden) he embarks on a cross country journey accompanied by his lothario friend, Lance (Duke) and his best friend & secret love, Felicia (Crew). Cue much en route mayhem and madness.

Already you're thinking, "Haven't I already seen this movie?" And you would be right to think so. Road Trip, Euro Trip, American Pie, the list goes on. I could probably save myself some time by copy & pasting one of the aforementioned reviews and changing the names. But then I would be doing myself and the film an injustice, because for all the similarities (and there are several) the film is worthy of your hard earned.

Ian is your stereotypical high school nerd; built like a Twiglet, inept at talking to the opposite sex and the butt of the jocks' jokes, including those of his testosterone riddled brother, Rex (Marsden). Ian's wingman on his search for sexual maturity is Lance, a pudgy hobbit of a boy whose cocksure attitude sees girls falling at his feet. Making up the triumvir is Felicia, the plain Jane who-is-actually-really-attractive-but-nobody-really-notices-until-the-end. Stealing his brother's prized muscle car, Ian et al leave on the seemingly simple 9 hour journey to Knoxville.

Their journey sees them encounter a redneck sexual deviant, a scary hitchhiker, Amish sarcasm, celibate sluts and geriatric genitalia. The jokes come thick & fast and the three leads reveal themselves to be more than capable at generating laughs. Zuckerman's Ian tends to be on the receiving end more often than not, while Lance's confidence and choice words always bring a smile to the face. The end will come as no surprise to anyone, thankfully though it does not stink of cheese or induce vomiting.

The real scene stealers though are James Marsden and Seth Green. Marsden's Rex is the ultimate bullying older brother. Ian is never far from Rex's wrath, be it trying to embarrass him in front of his step-mom to be (as if he doesn't do it enough himself) or using him as a punch-bag. One standout scene is when Rex discovers his beloved car, The Judge is missing. Green's Ezekiel is sarcasm personified. He could give most girlfriends a run for their money when it comes to laying guilt trips. You are never quite sure if he's been serious or not.

Though Sex Drive will break no new boundaries, it is a worthy addition to the genre. Marsden is a revelation in his first overtly comic role, while Green demonstrates the credentials that first brought him to audiences' attention.

Movie Website: www.sexdrivethemovie.com

Cast List:

Ian: Josh Zuckerman
Felicia: Amanda Crew
Lance: Clark Duke
Rex: James Marsden
Ezekiel: Seth Green
Ms. Tasty: Katrina Bowden

Tracklist:

Review - Seether - Breakdown (Single)

Seether - Breakdown (Single)

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9 out of 10

South African bred, Los Angeles based, post grunge noise machine Seether are back with 'Breakdown', the latest single to be taken from the awesome "Finding Beauty in Negative Spaces" album. Although the new offering isn't the best tune on the album (see Rise Above This - OMG!), it represents the band with gnarly guitars, big bad drums and a memorable gravel-like vocal.

The band are currently on a UK tour and despite having to sit through used-to-be-mellow-tv-rock-giants Staind at the same gig, Seether are worth the ticket price alone. Go on, take my word for it.

Listen: www.myspace.com/seether

Tracklist:
1. Breakdown

Review - Dropscience - There's An Awful Lot Of Weirdo's In Our Neighbourhood EP

Dropscience - There's An Awful Lot Of Weirdo's In Our Neighbourhood EP

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8 out of 10

Dropscience seem to quite happily bash through the best part of twelve and a half minutes of ska/punk noise on this offering and despite the fact that the title is bunged full of grammatical errors, the tunes are sure to get you stomping your feet.

The Warrington six-piece are particularly on form during 'Cocaine Nation' drawing on influences as varied as soul, reggae, hip-hop and rock, with maybe just a little punk chucked in for good measure.

"There are an awful lot of weirdos in our neighbourhood" (Sorry, had to correct the grammar and punctuation there - take that punky) is a showcase of pent up youthful aggression in a vein not dissimilar to that of the Clash and The Specials in years gone by. It is most definitely backed by the conviction of a motley crew fuelled by feelings of angst and recession and. er stuff.

Listen: www.myspace.com/dropsciencefans

Tracklist:
1. Jack the Lad
2. Cocaine Nation
3. Seratonin Rollercoaster
4. The Country's Paranoid
5. M16

Review - Dog Almighty - Dog Almighty

Dog Almighty - Dog Almighty

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8 out of 10

I liked this album purely because it came with a free rubber band - true.

Stuck somewhere between Muse and HIM, Dog Almighty have an epic sound characterised by soaring vocals and grinding riffage, Their sound is their own and in all truth, it's actually quite difficult to draw comparisons with other bands. it could well be that Dog Almighty is the best thing to come out of Scandinavia since Ulrika Johnson.

Standout tracks include album opener 'It Doesn't Hurt', which is the musical equivalent of smacking your face into a wall as an introduction to the band. And I like it.

Apparently the promo cover I have in my grubby paws is a limited edition - part of a run of 1000 hand made by the band themselves, so you'll have to wait for the normal, boring plastic ones to come out in March. But damn it, it'll be worth the wait. Get over it.

Listen: www.myspace.com/dogalmightyband

Tracklist:
1. It Doesn't Hurt
2. Sinner
3. Already There
4. Break
5. The Way
6. Hear Me Out
7. Perfect Lie
8. Let It Go
9. Sin
10. Choke On This
11. Drunk With Fear
12. Bitter To The Teeth

Review - Le Skeleton Band - Preacher Blues

Le Skeleton Band - Preacher Blues

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4 out of 10

It all started SO well! I'm always a little bit intrigued when anything is likened to the wonderful Tom Waits, and always a little apprehensive, so it was with some trepidation I slipped this shiny little disc into my laptop. As the first track drew to a close, hopes were still high. Sounding a bit like a French Tom Waits jamming with Neil Hannon and Murder by Death it put me in mind of a smoky Parisian back street bar, populated with drunken sailors and ventriloquists, and probably some overly painted hookers too. It's a wonderfully sinister song, soaked in Whiskey and made all the more mysterious by being in a foreign language.

Sadly it all goes a bit wrong after this. Instead of the wonderful lyrical French the vocals are sung in English, with a very pronounced French accent, which ends up a bit too close to the cast of 'Allo 'Allo singing from an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. It's a real shame to say, because there are moments of near brilliance, and the whole thing does pick up a bit for the last couple of tracks which are in French again, but it's just a little bit too pantomime for its own good, sadly.

Listen: www.myspace.com/alexandtheskeletonband

Tracklist:
1. Vous Ne M'aurez Pas Cru (Part 1)
2. L'Automne
3. Hunter's Knife
4. Empty Head
5. The Fall
6. Random Man
7. Jesus Trust in Me
8. Hard Pavement
9. Fils, Mon Cher Fils
10. Vous Ne M'aurez Pas Cru (Part 2)

Review - Fake Problems - The Dream Team Rumble in the Jungle (Single)

Fake Problems - The Dream Team Rumble in the Jungle (Single)

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8 out of 10

I've known of and listened to Fake Problems for a while now. I have the last album (How Far Our Bodies Go) in the car, and I saw them play live at the back end of next year, when they blew (an admittedly rather dull) Smoke or Fire off the stage. Still though, they never quite clicked - they took inspiration from bands like Against Me and Defiance Ohio, but they didn't >quite seem to have found their own voice yet. I had a horrible feeling this new single might be a step backwards, although I had no idea why. I shouldn't have worried.

This is a far more mature, powerful sounding Fake Problems than the one of old. The beefed up, more professional production actually suits the band, and compliments the direction they've moved in - the Bob Dylan and Woodie Guthrie folk influences remain, but this is a much rockier sound, with more than a hint of The Hold Steady and Bruce Springsteen.

I REALLY want to hear the album now!

Listen: www.myspace.com/fakeproblems

Tracklist:
1. The Dream Team

Review - Black Eyed Dog - Rhaianuledada (Songs To Sissy)

Black Eyed Dog - Rhaianuledada (Songs To Sissy)

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5 out of 10

This is a bit of a borderline one, I reckon. One of those albums where if you "get" it then you absolutely love it, and can't see a bad thing about it, but if you don't then, well, it's just nothing special. I have to admit I'm in the latter camp. There's some good stuff going on in there, I can hear a bit of Johnny Cash and Bruce Springsteen, a bit of latter day Dylan and some Leonard Cohen, and a bit of Ryan (and indeed Bryan) Adams and David Bowie too. But whilst there are moments of greatness, where it all gels together perfectly, there are far more where it. Doesn't. Worse, some of the songs have that sickly sweet sheen so beloved of advertising executives.

Definitely one to check out before investing in.

Listen: www.myspace.com/mybandsnameisblackeyeddog

Tracklist:
1. Roses
2. Salina's
3. All 4 You
4. Honeysuckle Gal
5. Bullet Proof
6. Drink Me
7. I Got you in
8. The Way to my Heart
9. Daly Suicide
10. Lazy. B
11. Angel Eyes

Review - The Freezing Fog - The Freezing Fog

The Freezing Fog - The Freezing Fog

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8 out of 10

It's been impossible over the last few years to mention The Freezing Fog without a mention of certain members previous incarnation in a much loved/missed Manchester based band (that were awesome by the way) who’s name will not be mentioned. Since then they have released a couple of splits and a fine debut album which leads us nicely to their self-titled, sophomore album.

Since their inception they have had the "retro" tag thrown around quite a bit, which sort of does them a great disservice really as it's not some sort of throwback rock ala Witchcraft, more like it takes that great song-writing attitude and dedication to riffs mixed with catchy melodies and wraps it up in a solid, modern production.

It's really hard to point out favourite tracks on here as each song contains its own identity and enough awesome riffs and catchiness that makes you forget the previous one. The epic melody of "Eagle" segues seamlessly into "Sweet, Sweet Purple"’s syrupy guitar licks. The instrumental "Virga" gives way for "In The Company Of A Genius" and more meaty riffing. I really hate to throw comparisons around with this as it sort of cheapens what is an immense album.

Classic Rock, Retro, whatever you want to call it, it's a stand alone, solid album that deserves serious attention outside of the strict climes of underground music.

Listen: www.myspace.com/thefreezingfog

Tracklist:
1. Dusk Chorus Blues
2. The Dweller on The Threshold Of Time
3. Eagle
4. Sweet, Sweet Purple
5. A Sleepwalkers Dream
6. Ride Them Gently
7. Virga
8. In The Company Of A Genius
9. Lady of Sorrow
10. Horizons

Review - Becoming The Archetype - Dichotomy

Becoming The Archetype - Dichotomy

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6 out of 10

The term Frankenstein has many different uses. It can mean a series of monster/horror films, the main character from said films, a boy I used to go to school with who had a very high forehead and small hair or in the case of Christian types Becoming The Archetype, it could relate to their third album "Dichotomy". Which is not a bad thing as such.

It touches on nearly all forms of extreme music and genres, throwing in everything from Black metal melodies to symphonic choruses to brutal beatdowns, all reined in by a very tight band and a quality production courtesy of Devin Townsend.

Imagine, if you will, Mastodon if they were brought up on Emperor and Iron Maiden rather than The Melvins and Metallica; skilfully swapping between styles and genres with a very natural ease and grace. Blastbeats nip in and out, duelling leads, screaming, spoken word and melodic crooning sweep over the top.

It's a well played, produced and executed album with tight musicianship and it's well written, but it still sounds to disparate to me. It reminds me off the first Shadows Fall album. There is all the potential there; it's just not quite set up.

Listen: www.myspace.com/becomingthearchetype

Tracklist:
1. Mountain of Souls
2. Dichotomy
3. Artificial Immortality
4. Self Existent
5. St Anne’s Lullaby
6. Ransom
7. Evil Unseen
8. How Great Thou Art
9. Deep Heaven
10. End Of The Age

Review - Pendulum - Showdown (Single)

Pendulum - Showdown (Single)

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7 out of 10

Does drum'n'bass have an equivalent to the hip-hop 'dis track'? I'd assume they don't, since there doesn't seem to be the same sense of animosity between the artists involved, but nonetheless, Pendulum have taken the idea and run with it. I think it's fairly well documented that there are (small but vocal) contingents of both the rock & DnB worlds who have taken exception to Pendulum's crossover success (but then what band doesn't have their internet detractors), and this seems to be their response.

So after setting the scene with the opening verse, which includes the fairly unsubtle line "I know you thought I'd sold my soul, but you never told me to my face", the Aussies basically reach into their bag of tricks, and throw break after effect after riff onto a fairly standard DnB beat, in an attempt to show they haven't sold out, but are basically just better than you. (Incidentally 'Bag of Tricks' would have been a more apt title, but I suppose that's not angry enough). There's a nice half-speed section around the two-minute mark, but it dries up after that and just coasts for the last minute or so. However, it temporarily reminded me of Pitchshifter, and I liked them, so I still reckon it's not a bad tune overall.

Listen: www.myspace.com/officialpendulum

Tracklist:
1. Showdown

Review - Napalm Death - Time Waits For No Slave

Napalm Death - Time Waits For No Slave

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9 out of 10

Doubtless many of you out there in Consumerland will be thinking 'Napalm Death? Didn't they expire in, like, 1987 or something?' Well, feel free to return to your ringtone-friendly drivel and exquisitely droopy jeans, because one of the few bands to stand up to the mighty Slayer is definitely still with us. As the mass-media of the world orgasm over yet another global disaster they help to bring about, the time is right once more for a band from the middle of a moribund industrial skank-town to tell everyone how the world is still being sucked dry by the ghoulish parasites pretending to run it.

It's a nightmarish situation and one which, musically, does not really call for some peachy after-dinner jazz with right-on slogans Billy Bragg may have discarded as naff. If being bellowed and screamed at whilst ice-perfect riffs and salvo drums cleave your brain don't work, then probably nothing will. The sub-one minute vomits are long gone but the band have lost none of their power or intent - one listen to likes of On The Brink of Extinction should tell you that. And like all great albums, there simply isn't a stereo loud enough for it.

Listen: www.myspace.com/napalmdeath

Tracklist:
1. Strong-Arm
2. Diktat
3. Work To Rule
4. On The Brink of Extinction
5. Time Waits For No Slave
6. Life And Limb
7. Downbeat Clique
8. Fallacy Dominion
9. Passive Tense
10. Larceny of the Heart
11. Procrastination On The Empty Vessel
12. Feeling Redundant
13. A No-Sided Argument
14. De-Evolution Ad Nauseum

News - bossk / Riona Split

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Eyesofsound will be releasing a split between bossk and Rinoa.

Riona’s part will feature new song "Fires In The Distant North" and live favourite "Eyes Closed" a newly recorded song. Both tracks were recorded in January 2009 at Bandit Studios with Jonny Renshaw of Devil Sold His Soul.

The bossk side side will feature previously unreleased material, details of which are to be finalised with the band.

This will be released only on vinyl with a digital download voucher and limited to 500 hand numbered copies, this release will be available exclusively from www.eyesofsound.com.

Pre-orders will start on February 9th 2009.

News - Manatees New Album Revealed

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The new album from Manatees is called "Icarus, The Sunclimber" and will be released through Eyesofsound.

Track Listing:

1. Of Wax & Wing (01.53)
2. The Sunclimber (15:21)
3. Hyperion Altitude (04:09)
4. Untitled (04:40)
5. False sun (6:53)
6. Out of the Sky, Into the gutter (12:15)

A strictly limited edition package containing a deluxe digipak with metallic print, t-shirt, pin badges & art print is available to pre-order now exclusively from www.eyesofsound.com.

Friday 23 January 2009

News - FellSilent Denied Access To The USA

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Submitted: "UK Based, Sumerian Records artist, FellSilent have been denied access to the U.S. to take part in the Crush Em’ All Tour which starts tonight and features Veil Of Maya, After The Burial and Abacabb. Below is an official statement from the band. FellSilent will release their full-length "The Hidden Words" via Sumerian on March 3rd:

"Due to reasons beyond our control FellSilent will no longer be able to take part in the Crush Em'All Tour 2009. Apologies to anyone who has been waiting patiently to come see us, we love and appreciate your support.

As you can imagine it takes a huge amount of effort to organise a tour of this size and the work load and costs are huge, we're extremely pissed off that we had this tour pulled from us as we all made huge sacrifices to make this trip, it's a huge blow for the band as its left some of us homeless and alot of us completely moneyless.

However our album release in the states will be going ahead as planned this March! And there's still light at the end of the tunnel for an American tour at some point later this year.

Once we managed to get ourselves back on our feet, we'll be making our way over to Europe to tour later this year, so keep your eye out for dates!

Thanks again for your continued support.

Neema, Joe, Acle, Browne, Max & Nodz
x""

News - Veil Of Maya Bass Player Change

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Submitted: "Veil Of Maya’s original bass player, Kris "The Higler", has decided to part ways with the band. Kris decided to part ways to pursue other things going on in his life. There are no hard feelings between them what so ever as the band wishes him all the best to whatever he pursues next in life.

Ex- BORN OF OSIRIS Guitar player and long time best friend. Matthew Pantelis takes the position as the new full time bass player in the band. Here’s what Matt has to say about joining VEIL OF MAYA. "As far as any of you are concerned... I used to be in a band with
(Vocalist) Brandon for some time that used to jam along side with Veil around Chicago. So when I found out that Kris split, I was enthralled to help out my buddies! Bass is sick and being with good friends of mine all the time is even more amazing. But the best part is making the change up permanent. Upon all that being said, the next album released by us will mask you. Come say hi at THE CRUSH EM ALL TOUR, and Marc, Sam, Brandon and I will teach everyone how to say Veil of Maya!""

News - Animal Kingdom Tour Dates

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Animal Kingdom tour dates:

January

23rd - Derby, The Royal
24th - Coventry, Kasbah
29th - Northampton, Roadmenders
30th - Winchester, Railway Inn
31st - Portsmouth, Cellar

February

4th - York, The Duchess
5th - Glasgow, Captain's Nest
6th - Wakefield, Escobar
7th - Birmingham, Rainbow Kamikaze! - 444 Club
11th - London, Borderline
12th - Hitchin, Club NME
13th - Bristol, Cooler

Their debut single "Chalk Stars" is being released in a limited edition of 500 and will be available only for fans at the shows.

News - Yellowcard Drummer Joins Lostprophets

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From AP.net: "Longineu "LP" Parsons, drummer of Yellowcard, has joined Lostprophets, filling the vacancy left by Ilan Rubin’s departure to Nine Inch Nails late last year. Lostprophets will be heading into the studio shortly to record a new album. Following that, they plan to tour throughout the rest of 2009"

News - Me vs Hero & Paige UK Tour

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Me vs Hero & Paige are touring together across the UK at the following dates:

20th March - Southampton Hamptons
21st - Salisbury Railway Social Club
22nd - Portmsouth Cellars
23rd - Brigton Freebutt
24th - London Barfly
25th - Newcastle O2 Academy 2
26th - Stoke Sugarmill
28th - Edingburgh Studio 24
29th - Glasgow Cathouse
30th - Birmingham 02 Academy 3
31st - Leeds Cockpit
1st April - Manchester Music box
2nd - Wrexham Central Station

News - Impending Doom: The Serpent Servant

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Impending Doom are gearing up for the release of their new album "The Serpent Servant" on the 31st of March. They have added the title track from the upcoming album to their MySpace page. It’s being released through Facedown Records.

News - All Time Low Get Back In The Studio

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All Time Low are currently in Los Angeles writing and recording with producers Matt Squire (Panic! At The Disco, Boys Like Girls, The Maine), David Bendeth (Paramore, Underoath, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus) and Butch Walker (Katy Perry, Pink, The Academy Is.) to name a few. While recording, the band will be keeping a studio journal with Glamour Kills (www.glamourkills.com/band_blog.php).

Thursday 22 January 2009

News - Welcome To The UK: Chiodos

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Chiodos’ album "Bone Palace Ballet" will get a UK release date on the 26th of January and the band tour on the following dates:

February
1st - Newport, TJ's 01633 216688
2nd - Glasgow, King Tuts 0141 221 5279
3rd - Stoke, Sugarmill 01782 214991
5th - Manchester, Academy 0161 275 2930
6th - London, Underworld 0870 154 40 40
7th - Birmingham, Barfly 0844 8472424

News - .And You Will Know Us By The Trail of Dead Album & Tour

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.And You Will Know Us By The Trail of Dead will release their new album "The Century of Self" on the 23rd of February through Superball Music.

Track Listing:

1. Giants Causeway
2. Far Pavillions
3. Isis Unveiled
4. Halcyon Days
5. Bells of Creation
6. Fields of Coal
7. Inland Sea
8. Luna Park
9. Pictures of an Only Child
10. Insatiable one
11. Ascending
12. An August Theme
13. Insatiable two

Tour dates:

April

14 Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms
15 Nottingham Rescue Rooms
16 Manchester Academy 3
17 Glasgow Oran Mor
19 Newcastle Academy
20 Birmingham Academy
22 Bristol Thekla
23 London Electric Ballroom
24 Oxford Academy

News - Dead Swans Signs To Bridge Nine Records

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Dead Swans has signed to Bridge Nine Records. In April the band will be entering the studio to record their debut full-length.

Tuesday 20 January 2009

News - Mansions - New Best Friends Album

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Mansions will release their debut full-length called "New Best Friends" on March the 3rd through Doghouse Records. The release will include the 12-song studio release on Disc 1, followed by a bonus MP3 CD on Disc 2, featuring the entire MP3 Initiative (http://www.doghouserecords.com/mansionsepinitiative/), a 7 EP project the band released throughout late 2008.

A pre-order for the double-disc will launch next week and will include an 11x17" poster plus a 5x5" original water color painting by Christopher (limited to 200, each one being complete different and therefore unique).

Track Listing:

Disc 1 (New Best Friends Album)
1. I Told a Lie
2. Talk Talk Talk
3. Por Favor
4. Holidaze
5. Curacao Blue
6. Insulated
7. Take It Back
8. Gotta Be Alone
9. The Worst Part
10. Sub Angel
11. Millions
12. All Eyes on You

Disc 2 (The EP Initiative MP3s)
1. OMG
2. I Swear
3. Never Enuff
4. Last to Leave
5. LtsBSdTgthr
6. When I Sleep
7. Shoes On, Pants Off
8. The Constant
9. Seven-Eleven
10. Eighteenth Bday
11. You Got Caught
12. When She’s Not Around
13. I Told a Lie (Remix)
14. The Worst Part (Remix)
15. Curacao Blue (Remix)
16. Gotta Be Alone (Remix)
17. All Eyes on You (Remix)
18. Insulated (Remix)
19. Talk Talk Talk (Remix)
20. Substitute Angel (Acoustic)
21. Take It Back (Acoustic)
22. Por Favor Is Spanish (Acoustic)
23. Millions of Pieces (Acoustic)
24. Holidaze (Acoustic)
25. Tangerine (Acoustic)
26. The Worst Part (Demo)
27. Gotta Be Alone (Demo)
28. Por Favor Is Spanish (Demo)
29. Substitute Angel (Demo)
30. Millions of Pieces (Demo)
31. Curacao Blue (Demo)
32. I Told a Lie (Demo)
33. All Eyes on You (Demo)
34. Holidaze (Demo)
35. Insulated (Demo)
36. Take It Back (Demo)
37. Tangerine (Demo)
38. Talk Talk Talk (Demo)

News - Hexes: White Noise / Black Sound

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Hexes’ new album "White Noise / Black Sound" will be released on the 9th of March through Undergroove Records.

News - Shake It With Metro Station

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Metro Station release their new single "Shake It" on the 23rd of March, followed by their self-titled debut album on the 30th of March.

Tour dates:

Jan 24th Glasgow - Garage
Jan 25th Manchester Academy 2
Jan 26th Birmingham Bar Academy
Jan 27th Leeds Cockpit
Jan 29th London Electric Ballroom
Jan 30th Oxford Academy
Jan 31st Portsmouth Guildhall

News - Stephen Dale Petit & Mick Taylor On Tour

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Stephen Dale Petit will be on tour of the UK in May and is supported by Mick Taylor:

Thu 7th May The Cavern, Liverpool
Fri 8th May Durham Gala Theatre
Sat 9th May Glasgow Renfrew Ferry
Wed 13th May 100 Club, London
Thur 14th May Spalding South Holland Centre
Fri 15th May Market Harborough Leisure Centre
Fri 22nd May Wimborne Tivoli Theatre
Sat 23rd May Market Harborough

Monday 19 January 2009

News - This Is Hell April UK Tour

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This Is Hell are back touring the UK in April at the following dates:

05 - Wrexham, Wales - Central Station
06 - Manchester , England - Music Box
07 - Glasgow, Scotland - Ivory Black s
08 - Leeds , England - Rio’s
09 - London, England - The Under world
10 - Luton , England - UBSU
11 - Southampton, England - Joiners
12 - Norwich, England - The Marquee

Sunday 18 January 2009

Review - Architects (UK) - Hollow Crown

Architects (UK) - Hollow Crown

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10 out of 10

Over their past two releases Brighton metalcore merchants Architects have progressed a LOT. This is said about a lot of bands over their careers, but it rarely happens to be in such a good direction as these lads have taken. Hollow Crown is their fourth proper release (if we're to include their split 7" with Dead Swans on TDON Records last year) and this time comes courtesy of European metal behemoths Century Media. This album is everything that made their Nightmares EP and follow up album Ruin just so damn good, however this time round there isn't as much filler and each track flows consistently from one to the other.

Album opener Early Grave is more than just a subtle nod to the Swedish titans Meshuggah, with its syncopated metal groove and absolutely devastating guitar tone; it is a warning shot as to what is to come. Throughout Hollow Crown the intensity doesn't drop once, even when the music takes a turn towards the softer side it is still twelve tracks of balls to the wall, foot to the floor discordant thrashing cacophony. Sam Carter seems to have upped his game in terms of the lyrical content and is proof that the months of touring and sacrificing himself nightly for baying crowds the world over has now given his vocal ability a raw power which is going to be hard to beat, if that's even at all possible.

This record is living proof that the UK has more talent in its little finger at the moment than the large majority of the metal world. Their crown may be hollow, but when worn it looks damn impressive and is sure to have many, many people walking by and needing serious skin grafts to their chin once they're done.

Listen: www.myspace.com/architectsuk

Tracklist:
1. Early Grave
2. Dethroned
3. Numbers Count For Nothing
4. Follow The Water
5. In Elegance
6. We’re All Alone
7. Borrowed Time
8. Every Last Breath
9. One Of These Days
10. Dead March
11. Left With A Last Minute
12. Hollow Crown

Review - Brides - Ocular.Unveil

Brides - Ocular.Unveil

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7 out of 10

Over the past few years the post hardcore genre has been solidly ran into the ground quicker than you can say "Geoff Rickley's n00dz leaked". Brighton mob Brides are here to set the record straight and show that there is still fresh ideas and life in a stale scene.

Ocular.Unveil is a short blast of both melodic and gruffly shouted multi layered vocal hooks, jagged guitars and one of the nicest drum tones I've heard on a record for a while and manage to blend a multitude of styles, yet never have it sounding too forced, or contrived.

For a first release, this isn't too shabby and you'd be quite foolish to overlook it. Let's hope Visible Noise carry on their trademark style of launching a bands career full time.

Listen: www.myspace.com/bridesmusic

Tracklist:
1. Beholder
2. Serpent, I'm Nothing But Your Anchor
3. Endless Sea Of Dirac
4. The Cold Wealth
5. Eye Despise The Faithless
6. Carcinoma
7. Frank West
8. Velvet Ground

Review - Skreintax - Scene Stealers

Skreintax - Scene Stealers

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8 out of 10

Skrein and Dr Syntax are members of the Foreign Beggars posse and they have grouped together as Skreintax to produce this brilliant album 'Scene Stealers'.

Originating from the big smoke, Skreintax have released an album which elevates them up there with some of the big hip hop stars of today.

The beats are smooth whilst the raps are in your face and taking you to all sorts of places, mostly trying to get out of the city (Express Train). When I started listening to the CD, I was taken back to the mid 1980's when I first heard 'Paid In Full' by Eric B & Rakim. I decided then that I was I going to enjoy this album, and I wasn't wrong!

Skreintax called in a few mates, and have complemented their obvious hard work behind the scenes by getting some high quality rappers to join them. One artist who should get her own tunes more out there in the public ear is Graziella, who has such a soulful beautiful voice and topped the tunes she guested on perfectly.

Standout tracks are Scene Stealers, T.E.T.M.D. (featuring the great Stig Of The Dump), Breathe & Reach.

A great ending to the album is the instrumental 'jazzy' sound of Outro, which is also great way to finish this review.

Go buy!

NOW!

Listen: www.myspace.com/skreintax, www.myspace.com/drsyntax & www.myspace.com/skrein

Tracklist:
1. Scene Stealers ft. DJ IQ
2. Express Train ft. Stig Of The Dump
3. Mine For The Taking ft. Farma G, Verb T and DJ Skully
4. T.E.T.M.D ft. Stig Of The Dump
5. Mothers ft. Sir Smurf Lil’
6. Back Down ft. Graziella
7. Venus ft. Dubbledge
8. Breathe ft. Graziella
9. 6 Bitters ft. Dubbledge and DJ NoNonames
10. Sometimes ft. Metropolis and Graziella
11. Reach ft. Graziella
12. Outro

Review - Extreme Noise Terror - Law Of Retaliation

Extreme Noise Terror - Law Of Retaliation

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8 out of 10

I first heard Extreme Noise Terror's brand of intense grindcore on John Peel's show sometime in the late 80's. The experience rendered me agog with delirium and ever since, these soap-dodging Suffolk fuckers have been more than welcome to squat round my house and drink all my cider.

ENT have come and gone with various line-up shuffles for nigh-on 25 years now but this release, their first in 7 years, sees a reinstatement of their original dual vocalist assault force, Phil Vane & Dean Jones and, happily, they've lost none of their fury. In fact, if anything, they sound better, tighter and more focussed than ever, making this album's production the only 'clean' thing about these crust-punk pioneers. The pace is fiery and those chunky punky chainsaw guitars are still very much in evidence; no frills, no flash solos, just relentless thrashing rage, with the odd interludal snippet of random film dialogue providing some brief respite.

This is one of the most unlikely and most satisfying comebacks of the year from a band who can rightly be considered masters of their art. Ugly, ferociously unpleasant art, but art none the less.

Listen: www.myspace.com/extremenoiseterroruk

Tracklist:
1. Believe What I Say
2. Religion is Fear
3. Spit on Your Dreams
4. Skin Deep
5. Blind Lead the Blind
6. Short Fuse
7. Chasing Shadows
8. Human Waste
9. Rat Hell
10. Enslaved in Darkness
11. Nothing No More
12. Parasites
13. Revenge
14. Rotten to the Core
15. Low Life
16. Against the Grain
17. Screaming Fucking Mayhem
18. Death Message
19. Divided & Ruled

Review - A Dark Orbit - The Voyager EP

A Dark Orbit - The Voyager EP

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7 out of 10

Blimey, that was exhausting. A Dark Orbit, a five-piece heavy hardcore outfit from St Louis, Missouri, aren't for easing us into the new year gently: unemployment here, three wars in the Middle East, climate change and economic collapse everywhere, and now we've got hyper-intense, ear-crushing metalcore to contend with too. ADO draw upon the kind of heaviness that labels like Hydra Head and Southern Lord drag up from bottomless pits and dark wells, except their bands tend to be instrumental and play kinda slow - ADO are fast; kicking up near impenetrable storms of noise led by the voice of Chad Kapper, whose scream is so powerful it probably has its own muscles.

This isn't just volume, though. ADO have quirks and textures, such as on the dramatic math-rock of 'Our Firestone', and a sometimes reminiscent of a less complex Botch, as on 'Grey Film' and or 'The Waters' with it's use of FX and the multiple modes of attack on guitar. Drummer Geoff Sprock slows down the blast beats so that they can breathe amongst the noise.

It's on final song 'Voyager' that ADO are at their most experimental, although the metallic, electronic bubbling is as much dodgy sink as space age - but whoever said, 'In space, no one can hear you scream,' obviously hadn't heard Chad Kapper. His growl works its way from down in the mix to the fore and then back again, as his band use their instruments to create a heavy soundscape rather than a barrage. Given that they've only been playing together for 11 months, the potential here is massive.

Listen: www.myspace.com/adarkorbit

Tracklist:
1. Grey Film
2. Radio.The Dead Eaters
3. Our Firestone
4. The Waters
5. Voyager

Review - Hot Chip - Hot Chip With Robert Wyatt And Geese

Hot Chip - Hot Chip With Robert Wyatt And Geese

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8 out of 10

The love-in between Hot Chip and Robert Wyatt (drummer/singer in 1960s prog rockers Soft Machine before becoming a folk/jazz legend in his own right) began around the release of Wyatt's excellent 'Comicopera' album in summer 2007, and long may it continue. Hot Chip's Alexis Taylor wrote the press release for 'Comicopera'; then they remixed 'This Summer Night', a song by Wyatt and French producer/composer Betrand Burgalot. Now for this EP, Wyatt has chosen for reinvention three songs from Hot Chip's fourth LP 'Made In The Dark' (there's also a rippling, Foals-like remix of 'One Pure Thought' by Geese).

Soft, soulful and awkward, Taylor and Wyatt's voices compliment each other wonderfully, especially on 'Made In The Dark', a pretty but forgettable piano ballad originally, but here - with the addition of Wyatt's voice, French horn and computery squelchy, twangy things - it makes you sit up, take notice and smile. 'Whistle For Will' was also a quiet piano number on 'Made.', but here it is made to shimmer with strings and low key synth drones. Wyatt's broken semi-falsetto is also an affecting jolt.

'We're Looking For A Lot Of Love' is the only song put through the filters of both Wyatt and Geese, and his folky and string additions lend themselves to dance surprisingly well, with Geese twisting the Hot Chip and Wyatt into hiccoughing, cliché-free chill out. If these three songs are anything to go by, an album by these unlikely partners would be more than good.

Listen: www.myspace.com/hotchip

Tracklist:
1. Made In The Dark (With Robert Wyatt)
2. Whistle For Will (With Robert Wyatt)
3. We're Looking For A Lot Of Love (With Robert Wyatt, Remixed by Geese)
4. One Pure Thought (Remixed by Geese)

Review - David Ford - Songs For The Road

David Ford - Songs For The Road

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8 out of 10

Since Mr Ford's former band Easyworld disbanded in 2004, it appears he's been up doing two things:

1 - Writing solo records (Obviously)
2 - Getting angry

With song names like "Go to Hell", "Decimate" and "Nobody tells me what to do" you'd think that David Ford's album would be fast, furious & shouty but it's quite the opposite. Each track on this, his second solo release, is laden with strings & heartfelt raspy vocals. "Songs For The Road" finds itself teasing a few different genres throughout its 37 minutes such as blues, folk, country & pop.

The main point of this album that grabs your attention is David's voice and lyrics. He lambasts everyone around & even himself through this rage filled record but he does it with such a folky & loveable way with a voice that is comparable to James Morrison if he was singing lounge songs in a sparkly dress. Maybe the sparkly dress would be unnecessary but I just like that thought.

Buy this record & file it under "I've been dumped & I want to feel better about myself".

Listen: www.myspace.com/davidford

Tracklist:
1. Go to Hell
2. Decimate
3. I'm Alright Now
4. Song For The Road
5. Train
6. St Peter
7. Nobody Tells Me What To Do
8. Requiem
9. .And So You Fell

Review - Heads We Dance - The Human Touch (Single)

Heads We Dance - The Human Touch (Single)

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9 out of 10

Heads We Dance are a 3-piece outfit originating from Leeds. They not just produce tunes such as this their single 'The Human Touch' but also DJ at hot electro Leeds club night Nailgun.

'The Human Touch' offers all the best of any electronica sounding artist out there at the moment. The track picks you up and carries you to another world for the next 5 minutes. The track starts with a slow intro before exploding into a beautiful synthesizer sound ready to launch you into the space-disco vocals.

The b-side 'You Are Never Alone With Model 21' took me by surprise after such a storming start to the single. The tune is such a throwback to the eighties electro sound its unreal, that's not a bad thing, but it didn't work for me first time around. I had to listen to the title track again because I was so impressed by it, so decided to give the 2nd tune another go. I then got it! I can now understand why this could be so good in the clubs.

Not only do I love the bands name, but I love this single. I will be using 'The Human Touch' when I next DJ, it's gonna go down a storm!

Listen: www.myspace.com/headswedance

Tracklist:
1. The Human Touch
2. You Are Never Alone With Model 21

Review - Foreign Beggars - Hit That G@sh (ft. Rouge A Levres) (Single)

Foreign Beggars - Hit That G@sh (ft. Rouge A Levres) (Single)

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7 out of 10

Hit That G@sh is all about the poon tang! Getting it when ever they can, not staying in on a night but going out to pull and get some!

I've heard tunes about all sorts, but the lyrics on this song about the ladies garden beats them all! Very funny lyrics and shows a small glimpse into the 'youths' quest for wanting to crack one off.

I really enjoyed listening to the first 4 tracks of this very long 10 track remix single. The standout 2 remixes are DJ Primecuts and Kid Dubs versions. Primecuts take on the tune doesn't use many of the rap and uses more bass and breaks in true Scratch Perverts style. Kid Dubs edition uses more of an electro sound which could really kick this tune off in the clubs.

Towards the end of the remixes, the sound becomes a little boring, and doesn't pack as much punch as the start. Maybe I had become a little bored hearing the same track in various different forms 10 times, but don't let that put you off downloading the first versions of remixes, which is a must for any hip hop heads out there.

This tune has been a big Hip Hop hit around the worlds clubs. Foreign Beggars are going to be a force to be reckoned with in 2009, prepare for the blast; they're going to hit the place with a vengeance.

Listen: www.myspace.com/foreignbeggars

Tracklist:
1. Hit That G@sh Original Mix
2. Big Willy's Bukkake Basement ft. Dubbledge and Kyza
3. DJ Primecuts (Scratch Perverts) Itchy Naan Re-Rub
4. Kid Dub's Electro Creampie remix ft. Dubbledge and Kyza
5. D-Code (Shiva Soundsystem) Surly Money Shot mix ft. Kyza
6. Dag Nabbit's 'True Say Man's on a grizzle, still' remix
7. LDZ Spam Salad Toss-Off ft. Dubbledge and Kyza
8. Ruckspin Hangin' Ham mix
9. Inja, Chester P and Killa Queens Dewy Flesh Pekkles Refix
10. Seemore Productions Ethno-Thugsteppin mix

Review - F5 - The Reckoning

F5 - The Reckoning

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4 out of 10

I might not be the most knowledgeable person in the world when it comes to metal but one thing I can tell you with absolutely confidence is that F5 have the best website I've ever visited, fact. But why is their website so good? I hear you ask...well, it's simple really, when you move your cursor over the tabs for news or tour dates you get a little skull with flames coming out of its head!! It's awesome.

Now that's got you excited about F5, check this, they also have ex-members of Megadeth & Suicidal Tendencies & it really shows. The Reckoning is very much metal by numbers for anyone who has rocked a Machine Head hoodie and black nail varnish. The guitars are, as you would expect, impeccable with massive solos & riffs in the vein of, well, every metal band ever...Dragonforce, Disturbed, Machine Head & early Metallica to name but a few.

So, you might have gathered that this album is inexplicably boring which, considering the fact it's obvious that this band is immensely talented, is extremely disappointing. Not only are the songs boring, with no real hooks or decent melodies, the production is also dire. The album lacks any sort of punch or dynamics which makes it just background music.

Listen people, there's a credit crunch on so don't go spunking your wages on this when you could buy a loaf of bread and about 500 tins of Aldi beans to feed your kids during these hard times.

Listen: www.myspace.com/f5thebandaz

Tracklist:
1. No Excuse
2. I Am The Taker
3. The Reckoning
4. Rank And File
5. Love Is Dead
6. Through Hell
7. Wake Up
8. Cause For Concern
9. My End
10. Control
11. Final Hour

Review - Deekline And Wizard - Angels (feat. Yolanda) (Single)

Deekline And Wizard - Angels (feat. Yolanda) (Single)

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5 out of 10

I had a lot of hope for this single - I love Against The Grain and Supercharged records. They have a great stable of artists such as Deekline And Wizard who have produced some amazing tunes. Unfortunately, this is not one of them. Angels is very mediocre and plods along. All the remixes are the same and there isn't anything good on any of them.

The 8th track of the single, which isn't 'Angels' is the better track.

That's it, not got much else to say about it.

Disappointing.

Sorry.

Listen: www.myspace.com/deeklineandwizard

Tracklist:
1. Angels Original Radio Edit
2. MJ Cole Remix Radio Edit
3. Original 12" Mix
4. MJ Cole Remix 12" Vocal Mix
5. MJ Cole Remix 12" Instrumental Mix
6. DJ Bomba Remix 12" Vocal Mix
7. DJ Bomba Remix 12" Instrumental Mix
8. Baila Baila (Feat. Stereo Type)

News - Say NO To Noise Controls: Sign The Petition

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Submitted: "It has been brought to attention that the government wish to consider it a legal requirement in the new tax year to introduce laws insisting anyone applying or re-applying for an entertainment license must have a noise control device fitted to the venue. This will be the final NAIL for ALL entertainment in the UK as the level at which these devices CUT you off is dreadfully low and damaging.

PLEASE DO NOT INTRODUCE THIS LAW, WE LOVE LIVE MUSIC!"

Sign the petition here: http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/NoNoiseControl/

Saturday 17 January 2009

News - Zao Is In The Studio

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Zao have posted an update in a MySpace blog:

"Hey Guys! You’ve been asking us for an update and here it is! Right now at Lambesis Studios in San Marco CA, Daniel Castleman is mixing the brand new ZAO album which was recorded in Latrobe PA (near Greensburg), Pittsburgh PA, Encitas CA and San Marcos CA.


The album was produced by Scott with Daniel and Tim Lambesis. It features 11 tracks. 10 of them are brand new while "Romance of the Southern Spirit" has finally been given the sonic quality it deserves with a brand new recording that smashes the basement b-side version you’ve heard.


The new album is going to be called AWAKE? Yes... The title is AWAKE? with a question mark.

Here are some new song titles to chew on until we can get you some music:

. 1,000,000 Outstretched Arms Of Nothing
. The Eyes Behind The Throne
. Human Cattle Masses Marching Forward
. Quiet Passenger Pt. 2

We can’t wait for you guys to hear this album! We are very proud of it and in our humble opinions it is very reminiscent of what you have come to know and love about Zao over the years. Every band likes to say "this new album is our best yet" so we won’t say that to you. We know that albums like "Blood & Fire" and "Liberate" will always be fan favorites and they are special to us as well. But with that being said believe us when we say that we strongly feel "Awake?" is a more than worthy addition to our catalog.

The album will be released by Ferret Music most likely in the spring. Thank you for the continued support of Zao. We would not do this without you."

News - The Haunted Come To Your Town

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Submitted: "THE HAUNTED live:

THE HAUNTED co-headlining tour 2009 with ALL THAT REMAINS - both bands playing 70 minute sets - Anterior to open
17 Jan UK - Nottingham, Rescue Rooms
19 Jan UK - Birmingham, Academy
20 Jan UK - Glasgow, Garage
21 Jan UK - Manchester, Academy
23 Jan UK - Brighton, Concorde 2
24 Jan UK - London, Islington Academy
26 Jan DE - Stuttgart, Landespavillion
27 Jan DE - Bochum, Matrix
29 Jan DE - Hamburg, Knust
04 Feb DK - Copenhagen, Pumpehuset
05 Feb DE - Berlin, Magnet
06 Feb DE - Leipzig, Conne Island
07 Feb CZ - Prague, Abaton
08 Feb AT - Wien, Arena
10 Feb IT - Milan, Zoe Club
11 Feb CH - Winterthur, Salzhaus
12 Feb DE - Trier, Exhaus
13 Feb NL - Amsterdam, Melkweg
14 Feb FR - Paris, Noveau Casino
15 Feb B - Brussels, AB Box
27 Feb SE - Umea, House Of Metal Festival (with Opeth, Mustasch)
SPAIN MINI-TOUR 2009
Mar 20 ES - Madrid, Sala Heineken
Mar 21 ES - Bilbao, Sala RockStar Live
Mar 22 ES - Barcelona, Sala Apolo 2

Mar 27 TUR - Istanbul, Bronx Club / Uni Rock Festival
Mar 28 GR - Thessaloniki, Principal Club
Mar 29 GR - Athens, Fuzz Club

US & CANADA TOUR 2009
with Nachtmystium, Kylesa, Intronaut
Apr 02 - Pomona, CA, The Glasshouse
Apr 03 - Hollywood, CA, The Key Club
Apr 04 - San Francisco, CA, Slim’s
Apr 05 - Portland, OR, Hawthorne Theater
Apr 06 - Seattle, WA, Neumo’s
Apr 07 - Vancouver, BC, Commodore Ballroom
Apr 08 - Calgary, AB, The Warehouse
Apr 09 - Edmonton, AB, Starlite Ballroom
Apr 11 - Winnipeg, MB, Royal Albert
Apr 12 - St. Paul, MN, Station 4
Apr 13 - Mokena, IL, The Pearl Room
Apr 14 - Detroit, MI, Majestic Theatre
Apr 15 - Toronto, ON, Opera House
Apr 16 - Montreal, QC, Le Medley
Apr 17 - Worcester, MA, The Palladium
Apr 18 - Westchester, PA, The Note
Apr 19 - New York, NY, BB King’s Blues Club
Apr 21 - Millvale, PA, Mr. Small’s
Apr 22 - Springfield, VA, Jaxx
Apr 23 - Raleigh, NC, Volume 11
Apr 24 - Atlanta, GA, The Masquerade

THE HAUNTED - Festivals 2009
Aug 13 - 15 DE - Dinkelsbühl, Summer Breeze Festival (http://www.summer-breeze.de)
Aug 14 - 16 UK - Derby, Bloodstock Open Air (http://www.bloodstock.uk.com)"

News - Haunts UK Shows

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Submitted: "HAUNTS have just been added to the European shows with WHITE LIES and then immediately followed by a tour with EAGLES OF DEATH METAL.
Haunts start their headline tour tomorrow in Nottingham.

Sat 17th January- Nottingham - Stealth vs Rescued * £5 / 0115 822 1313
Sun 18th January - Leeds - Cockpit £6/ 0113 244 1573
Tues 20th January - Stoke - Sugarmill £6 / 01159 454 593
Thurs 22nd January - Bristol - Thekla (Death from Above) £5 / 0117 929 3301
Sat 24th January - Oxford - Academy (Transmission) * £4 / 01865 813 500
Mon 26th January - Leicester - Charlotte £6 / 0116 255 3956
Tues 27th January - Brighton - Engine Rooms £5 / 01273 728999
Wed 28th January - Southampton - Hamptons £6 /
Thurs 29th January - London - Proud Gallery (Rif Raf) * £5 / 020 7839 4942
Fri 30th January - Cardiff - Barfly £6 / 02920 396589
Sat 31st January - Exeter - Cavern £4 / 01392 495370
Tues 3rd February - Liverpool - Barfly TBC / 0151 707 6171
Wed 4th February - Manchester - Moho Live £4 / 0161 834 8188
Thurs 5th February 09 - York - Fibbers £5 / 01904 651250
Fri 6th February - Middlesborough - Uncle Alberts * FREE / 01642 253053
Sun 8th February - Glasgow - King Tuts £6 / 0141 221 5279
Tues 10th February - Carlisle - Brickyard £5 / 01228 512220
Wed 11th February - Birmingham - The Rainbow £5 / 0871 917 0007
Thurs 12th February - Kidderminster - The Tap House FREE / 01562 86240
Thurs 5th March - Northampton - Roadmender* £6/ 01604 604020
(*dates are club nights.)
9th March - 14th March in Europe with WHITE LIES
16th March- 27th March in Europe with EAGLES OF DEATH METAL
Wed 1st April Spring & Airbrake Belfast w/ Eagles of Death Metal
Thurs 2nd April Academy Dublin w/ Eagles of Death Metal"

Thursday 15 January 2009

News - Julian Velard: Love Again for the First Time

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Julian Velard releases his new single "Love Again for the First Time" on the 2nd of March and his album "The Planeteer" on the 9th of March.

News - Hey Watch The Auteur!

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The Auteur release their debut single called "Hey Watch This!" on the 30th of March through LAB records.

News - Kasms Want To What...

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Kasms will release their new single "Bone You" through Trouble Records on February the 23rd.

Live dates:

January

20th London Madame Jojo’s (White Heat headline set)
24th Milan, Italy Circolo Magnolia

February

10th London South of the Border (Single lanch w/Male Bonding and Plug)
12th Brighton New Hero (w/Crystal Stilts)
27th London No Fiction at Powers

News - Who WANTs 3OH!3?

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3OH!3’s debut album "WANT" will be out in the UK later this year, but they are supporting Katy Perry on these dates:

Wed Feb 25 2009 ACADEMY Manchester 0161 275 2930
Thurs Feb 26 2009 KOKO London 0844 847 2258
Fri Feb 27 2009 KOKO London 0844 847 2258

Doors 7pm. Tickets £12 Manchester and £13.50 in London

News - Dissolved In Tour Dates

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Dissolved In tour dates:

16 Jan 2009 Heatham House (Under 18’s) Twickenham, Surrey
17 Jan 2009 Hat Factory Luton
18 Jan 2009 Cooperage Newcastle
19 Jan 2009 Flower Pot Derby
20 Jan 2009 The Town Mill Mansfield
21 Jan 2009 The Imp Scunthrope
22 Jan 2009 The Solstice Peterborough
23 Jan 2009 Private Party The vibe, Didcot
24 Jan 2009 Crauford Arms Milton Keynes
25 Jan 2009 The Face Bar Reading
26 Jan 2009 The Watermans (New Cambridge Venue) Cambridge
27 Jan 2009 The Shed Leicester
28 Jan 2009 Madhouse Birmingham,
30 Jan 2009 The Sweatbox Wantage
31 Jan 2009 Central Hall (Breastfest) Westminster, London and South East

News - Redjetson Last Album To Be Released...

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Submitted by Gizeh Records: "As some of you will probably know, Redjetson disbanded some months ago but left behind a fully-formed album in ’Other Arms’ that was just too good to not be released. This will be limited to 1000 copies worldwide. Redjetson’s debut album ’New General Catalogue’ was released by Drowned in sound in 2005 and tours with the likes of 65daysofstatic, Bloc Party, Youthmovies and I Like Trains pushed the band to a much wide audience.... a band that will be missed but leave something special behind to remember them by."

This release should come out in April.

News - Trespassers William Sign To Gizeh Records

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Trespassers William have signed to Gizeh Records. The band will release their new EP "The Natural Order of Things" through the label around about April time.

News - Worriedaboutsatan Have Arrived

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Worriedaboutsatan’s new album "Arrivals" will be released by Gizeh Records in April. For fans of Boards of Canda, Sigur Ros & Burial.

Wednesday 14 January 2009

News - Mindless Self Indulgence - Kerrang Tour Bass Player

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Submitted: "Mindless Self Indulgence’s friend Johnny Araya, from the Canadian metal band and labelmates Thine Eyes Bleed, will be stepping in for bassist LynZ during the Kerrang! Tour as well as during MSI’s immedtiately-following European run. MSI will be directly supported on the tour by labelmates Dir En Grey.

01/16/09 Fri - Bristol Academy - Bristol, England
01/17/09 Sat - Cardiff Great Hall - Cardiff, England
01/18/09 Sun - Southhampton Guildhall - Southhampton, England
01/20/09 Tue - Oxford Academy - Oxford, England
01/21/09 Wed - University of East Anglia - Norwich, England
01/22/09 Thu - Rock City - Nottingham, England
01/23/09 Fri - Manchester Academy - Manchester, England
01/24/09 Sat - Leeds Academy - Leeds, England
01/26/09 Mon - Liverpool Academy - Liverpool, England
01/27/09 Tue - Glasgow Barrowlands - Glasgow, England
01/28/09 Wed - Newcastle Academy - Newcastle, England
01/29/09 Thu - Birmingham Academy - Birmingham, England
01/30/09 Fri - Brixton Academy - London, England"

News - It’s Not A Shoot-Out, It’s A Deadlock

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Deadlock have posted a new track called "Martyr to Science" from their album "Manifesto" on their MySpace page. The album is released on the 20th of January through Lifeforce Records.

News - Stop Ape-ing Around And Fight

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Fight Like Apes tour dates:

18th February - The Joiners Arms, Southampton
19th - Moles, Bath
20th - Louisiana, Bristol
22nd - Leadmill (Steel Stage), Sheffield
23rd - Barfly, Cardiff
25th - Barfly, Camden, London (NEW DATE!)
26th - Barfly, Birmingham
27th - Adelphi, Hull
1st March - Roadhouse, Manchester
2nd - Barfly, Liverpool
3rd - King Tuts, Glasgow
5th - Cockpit, Leeds
6th - Fibbers, York
8th - Bodega, Nottingham

News - The Sound of Shinedown

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Shinedown will release their new single "Sound of Madness" on the 23rd of February. Check out a free download bundle from the band available now at -www.myfreedownload.co.uk/shinedown

Tour dates:

Wed 21 Jan 2009 London Islington Academy (upgraded from Camden Underworld)
Thu 22 Jan 2009 Birmingham Barfly
Fri 23 Jan 2009 Glasgow King Tuts
Sun 25 Jan 2009 Manchester Academy

News - Mongrel UK Tour

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Mongrel (the new collaboration/supergroup from members of Reverend and the Makers, Babyshambles and The Arctic Monkeys) are touring the UK in February.

The dates are as follows;

1 Feb 2009 20:00
Waterfront
Norwich
2 Feb 2009 20:00
Academy
Oxford
3 Feb 2009 20:00
Fleece
Bristol
5 Feb 2009 20:00
Sugarmill
Stoke
6 Feb 2009 20:00
King Tuts
Glasgow
7 Feb 2009 20:00
The Arena
Middlesborough
8 Feb 2009 20:00
Brownes
Nottingham
10 Feb 2009 20:00
Duchess
York
11 Feb 2009 20:00
Club Academy
Manchester
13 Feb 2009 20:00
Coalition
Brighton
14 Feb 2009 20:00
Plug
Sheffield
18 Feb 2009 20:00
Scala
London