Want to hear some Australian post hardcore? Well take a listen to this from the guys at Avastera – that’s Mike Lang on Lead Vocals, Chris Hanssen on Vocals and Guitar, Dave Thoomes on Bass, Chris Crole on Guitar and Jamie Savage on Drums. They have prepared their début EP The Clock Have Ticked Too Long produced by Paul Leavitt (Who has worked with big names like Yellowcard).

Amidst wild lead guitar, sophisticated drums, dulcet vocals, occasional screamo and – oh! – even clean piano lies sensual lyrics about relationships and tough life choices. These poetic layers gives The Clocks Have Ticked Too Long a juicy, dynamic and groovy sound which flows smoothly in its teenage dreamy tone.

Though frankly speaking, it’s not just purely post hardcore. Moreover, the guys themselves describe their genre as a symbiosis of post hardcore, alternative rock and pop punk, which is not a very strange thing to hear nowadays. This genre definition explains a lot about the uplifting sounds throughout the EP.

Their music is described as appealing to the taste of fans of Anberlin and A Day To Remember. Well it certainly sounds very similar to these artists but maybe a younger and sweeter A Day To Remember, less dramatic and sweeter Anberlin (yep, a sweeter Anberlin – there IS such a thing). Avastera’s EP sounds exactly how the cover looks – a yellow dahlia, surrounded by dark blue, indigo tracery but still it warms you from its sunny depth.

Similar Articles and Artists

Chatting to Exit Ten
Interview : Memphis May Fire
Oceans Ate Alaska – Taming Lions
Sounds Like Your Childhood… Only better!

More About Rap Is Power

Rap Is Power : Column #1
Rap Is Power — Duval’s Prodigy
R.I.P.(RapIsPower)
R.I.P website

The first song, All the Way, is a great first song that really gives the band a chance to show what they are about. Being the EPs lead single it is a well-accomplished rock/pop song, carrying with it a catchy sing along chorus that will sound great on the live circuits. The second track is a much rockier affair, bringing with it bluesy solos and bass riffs the crowd can bounce to. The third song, Long Time Coming, is much more macho with it’s heavy down-tuned riffs and could be an ode to grunge bands such as Soundgarden and Nirvana as it crafts Metal against a Pop backdrop. This could perhaps be said for the entire E.P. It’s an example of how the conventions of metal can effectively make a great pop song. Another thing to keep in mind is just how powerful the band sound. There are only three members and there is rarely much overdubbing with most reliance in power on the drums and bass to really fill out the sound.

It has to be said that the excitement dies down a little in the next few tracks but in the final track, Déjà vu the band redeems itself. Crushing drums and bass play off against each other whilst the guitars carry simple but melodic passages giving the vocalist a real chance to shine. ‘Don’t break us down, I’d have no place to go again’ he cries perhaps sympathising with the current feeling of youth in these hard times and this message of isolation is consistently felt in the record. It is a brilliant swansong to end a well-written body of music.

All The Way is a good E.P. and a great starting point for Circles, who show a lot of early potential, and who maybe will end up going all the way themselves.

Similar Articles and Artists

Introducing : Circles
Download the All The Way single plus 9 others free

Valdosta is the latest release from the US pop-punk super group, Mayday Parade. The EP is entirely acoustic and features six tracks, four of which have been previously released by the band and two which are brand new. Known for their perfect harmonies and heart warming lyrics, they could easily charm Eskimos into buying ice. I was therefore excited to see what their new tracks sound like and whether the acoustic versions worked or were they just an easy release for the band?

The EP starts with a new track Amber Lynn. There is no denying it, the song is beautifully written and the acoustic sound definitely compliments the angelic voice of Derek Sanders. It has the trademark Mayday Parade love story lyrics with a delicate and enchanting melody that their fans love so much. It is sure to be a hit.

The second track Jamie All Over is an old school Mayday Parade song which originally features on their 2007 album A Lesson In Romantics. Although the track displays the band’s ability to strip back a classic song and re-produce it, it doesn’t have the same kick that the original version has. The original is choppy, upbeat and fun so for these reasons, the acoustic version doesn’t really work. It is rather slow, seems to drag slightly and as a listener, you sit waiting for it to pick up– unfortunately it never does.

The third track is Kids In Love which is a single which was released from their 2009 album Anywhere But Here and it is most definitely a favourite with the fans. The harmonies are fantastic and no fault can be found with the overall sound but again, it just seems a bit plain. Yes, acoustic tracks are meant to be simple and exposed but this track is missing that ‘je ne sais pas’ you get from something special.

Your Song is even more old school and is taken from their 2006 release Tales Told By Dead Friends. Strangely enough, after hearing the previous two tracks, this one actually works well stripped back. All that is present is Derek’s voice accompanied by a piano and compared to the original– which is quite a busy track– the acoustic twist gives it a different feel, making it more of a ballad in comparison to the poppy original.

Bruised and Scarred is most definitely the stand out track of the EP. It starts with a violin along with a guitar and the use of the violin really gives this track a different edge. It works brilliantly to achieve an elegant and dynamic sound. If all of the tracks on the EP were this inventive, it would be an absolute gem.

The band’s other new track Terrible Things is the last on the EP and my goodness what a way to end. This song is truly moving, with raw and emotional lyrics which tell of losing a loved one. Only Mayday Parade have the ability to produce a collection of songs which have the power to have you falling in love with them one minute and then almost bring you to tears seconds later.

Valdosta is overall a good EP and features tracks from across all of their previous albums thus keeping all fans happy. It also gives a little taster of the kind of material that Mayday Parade are currently working on at the moment and definitely makes you inquisitive as to what their next album will be like. Although the previously released tracks have been changed up a bit and sure they give the fans something new to listen to, apart from Bruised and Scattered, they don’t quite beat the originals and I suspect only the most hardcore of fans will be purchasing this EP.

On a side note though one of the most gob-smacking acoustic tracks I have ever heard is Mayday Parade’s Three Cheers For Five Years and if you haven’t heard it my goodness get searching for it now!

Valdosta is available now and for more details on the band please head to the Official Mayday Parade Website

Similar Articles and Artists

Man Overboard – The Absolute Worst EP Review
Orange Avenue — Reset
Crystal Castles at Bristol University

Man Overboard — The Absolute Worst

Man Overboard is a fantastic pop-punk band originating from New Jersey. When it comes down to their lyrics, they are certainly a band who wear their heart on their sleeve, revealing all sorts about their past experiences with girls. Some of their previous releases are so beautifully written they can make girls fall weak at the knees within seconds, yet others tracks are straight to the point without a second thought about offending people. Their new EP titled The Absolute Worst is most definitely one of their releases that tell it how it is.

The first track which is also named The Absolute Worst, pretty much slates everyone– girls, guys and kids. No-one escapes. Yet somehow Man Overboard manages to get away with it. Their cheeky lyrics, ‘I don’t care’ attitude, combined with summery melodies make this song really entertaining and you can’t help but love it.

The other track on the EP is I Saw Behemoth And It Ruled and staying true to form; this track is about the trials and tribulations of relationships. It is a great track and it would be easy to imagine Blink-182 releasing something similar to this.

What makes Man Overboard so popular is the fact that anyone can relate to what they are talking about. Each of their singles tells a story and this EP is a prime example of just how good they are at telling them. If you are feeling down or hating a certain someone right now, stick this EP on and you will soon be feeling a lot more chipper!

Rating: 5/5

For fans of: Blink-182, New Found Glory, You Me At Six

Similar Articles and Artists

Interview : Man Overboard
Man Overboard support Senses Fail — Gig Review
Gig Review : You Me At Six

Although there are more unsigned artists than there are signed it’s worth paying them some attention because more than likely the next big thing is unsigned, on social networks and going to be discovered.

Alpha380 (A380) certainly has raw electronic potential.

A380 is an electronic duo that originally started as a solo project for Alex Pinay in 2009 until he brought in his brother Andrew Pinay to be Lead Guitarist later that year. Earlier on in 2005 when Alex started playing instruments he got involved in a 5 piece project with Frederic Wessberg, Lucas Odenthal, Ryan Dillon and Eddie Watz called City Romantics. Although they never released any material the other members have moved on to different projects like Alex and it’s clear that they have influenced one another during their time spent together and A380 share similar sound with Frederik’s new project Searing Solace.

A380 influences include the likes of Angels and Airwaves, U2 and Blink182.

A380’s first EP release is a 7 track record called Satellite. Amongst the songs are Green Light, Satellite and Tonight Tonight.

Tonight Tonight is the opening track on the EP using synthesizers and a steady drum beat definitely makes it one of the more euphoric tracks. Tonight Tonight clearly has influences from ‘HelloGoodbye — Here’ and it’s a good opener as it shows the strengths of A380 with use of their synthesizer and funky electric beats.

The introduction to Green Light sounds very similar to that on kanye west’s album 808 and heartbreaks by which I mean its cold, synthetic and a little bit dark, however this doesn’t last long with A380’s infectious upbeat melodies and crisp vocals. Admittedly their material isn’t out of this world but they’re just starting out and they seem to have potential. And there’s no reason they can’t be successful, Owl City has achieved great things and have a similar sound to A380.

Satellite has similar sounds to new bands Neon Trees and The Far East Movement. This style of music is becoming more and more mainstream, its very ethereal and surreal but avoids the heavy industrial rock that Apex Twin, one of Alex’s influences, is known for.

The other tracks on the record; Silent Whisper, City Lights, Desire and Postcard from Paris provide enough musical variation without straying too far from the electric dub-step sound that A380 are trying to perpetuate. The record in all is actually a solid release, there are no songs that make or break it and it’s perfectly balanced in its ability to keep a listeners attention but not warranting it.

Similar Articles and Artists

GORILLAZ – PLASTIC BEACH — Album Review
Outshine Family — Galeria De La Luz — Album Review
Introducing The Fantastic K1nk

‘Defend Pop Punk’ is Man Overboard’s motto and I can’t think of a better ambassador than this band. Being a relatively new fan, I only discovered them through the hype surrounding their latest album Real Talk. The album received rave reviews from Alter The Press, Amp Magazine and Absolute Punk so I was keen to jump on the bandwagon – boy am I glad I did! They are a true pop punk gem and I would strongly recommend a listen. I caught up with Justin (guitar) and was later joined by Zac (guitar/vocals), to see how they are getting on and what we can expect from them this year.

How’s the tour going so far? Are you happy to be back in the UK?

Yeah, we were here with Transit and All Or Nothing – actually, the All Or Nothing dudes are here right now, ‘cos they are from here. It was cool to come with them and do a headliner in December and it’s cool to come back and do a support tour with Senses Fail.

What are the guys in Senses Fail like? Are you a fan of the band?

We have known Buddy for a long time, he’s cool. They are all cool. They have a little bit of a new line up but it’s neat because Jason [Black] is in Hot Water Music, Matt [Smith] is in Strike Anywhere and Zack [Roach] is a crazy metal guitar player with long hair. So it’s cool to hang out with those dudes.

You had your headline tour in December last year. Did you enjoy it? Were you pleased with the reception?

It was awesome, especially the UK shows. They were pretty insane which we weren’t expecting.

Do you have a favourite city here? Is there one place that goes mad for you in particular?

I would say Leeds, Kingston and Glasgow were the craziest ones. We played Glasgow two days ago, it was cool. From what I heard, everyone in Leeds smokes a lot ‘cos when we played our gig at The Well, Transit played first and then everyone left. We thought ‘no one in Leeds likes us’ but then when we started playing, everyone came back in. They were all outside smoking and apparently that is just what happens in Leeds.

Man Overboard and Transit 08

Your album ‘Real Talk’ has been likened to Taking Back Sunday and Brand New by the website Alter The Press, are they the sort of artists that inspire you?

Yeah for sure! Save The Day, Brand New, New Found Glory are all bands that we love.

As the band is named after the Blink 182 song, are you guys pleased that they have re-formed?

We love Blink and that is where the band name is from but I haven’t seen them since they got back together. I think it’s funny ‘cos they were never the tightest band in the world and it’s not like they had anything special up their sleeve, they we just like ‘yeah we are a band again’.

You have the song ‘Fantasy Girl’ who would you describe as your fantasy girl?

Ooh, erm… She has to like Coca Cola, Punk Rock and Harry Potter.

In many of your songs you are often talking about girls, are you good with ladies?

(Laughs) Erm, I would say we are pretty good with the ladies.

What are your plans for the summer? Any festival appearances?

We are coming back in July and August with Polar Bear Club. I don’t know if we are playing any festivals in the UK but we are playing Fluff Fest in the Czech Republic and Bamboozle in the US.

That’s a shame, you guys would be great for Slam Dunk Festival!

I know, the reason we are not playing is because we will be recording a new album then, so what are you gonna do? Last year was such a good line-up that this year it is gonna be hard to top it.

*Zac (Man Overboard’s guitarist/ vocalist) walks past*

Justin: Hey there’s Zac! Come and do this interview with me… So they asked if you are good with the ladies?

Zac: Me?

Justin: Yeah

Zac: No, I think that if I was, we wouldn’t have as many songs.

Justin: We all have girlfriends apart from our drummer but I don’t think he has any game.

Zac: No, I think even when we were single though, none of us were particularly smooth. I think you [Justin] are probably the best. You have good ideas for dates and stuff, I’m just like ‘do wanna smoke and watch a movie?’

Justin: Yeah, I’m a romantic.

What does this year have in store for you?

Justin: We are doing the US and Canada with the Wonder Years and then Senses Fail– two different tours. After that we are playing Bamboozle with Motley Crue, ICP, Lil’ Wayne.

Zac: Obviously there isn’t any Senses Fail, New Found Glory or anyone who we are really fans of.

Justin: Yeah, so then we are doing a new album and we are coming back here with Polar Bear Club.

Busy year! Do you not get a lot of time off then?

Justin: No. Well between Senses Fail and going to record, which is like a good month, that we will have off from touring but we have to demo the new album and stuff so there is no real time off.

Zac: Yeah, we don’t really get any time off from each other.

So there you have it! Justin is the best with the ladies but only interested if you like Coca-Cola, Harry Potter and Pop Rock and if you prefer a more low key kind of date, Zac is your man. You can catch the band when they come back to the UK with Polar Bear Club in July and their fantastic album Real Talk is available now.

Similar Articles and Artists

Man Overboard – The Absolute Worst EP Review
Man Overboard support Senses Fail — Gig Review
A Tantalising Début From No Lights At Lockdown
Début Album from Black City
Fang Island — Album Review

Despite their glaringly inaccurate band name [insert whimsical face made of punctuation here], Penguins Kill Polar Bears seem to know what they’re doing. The band are from Linlithgow, near Edinburgh, joining legions of other Scottish post-rock bands, and Vessels & Veins is their second EP.

The outfit have drawn comparisons to Explosions in the Sky, The Twilight Sad and early Biffy Clyro, to name a few. Although they often walk along some classic post-rock territories, namely heavily layered and reverb-heavy guitars, mellow, drawling vocals and quiet build-ups, followed by explosions of sound, the band do it well and with a practised grace.

The opening track of Vessels & Veins, Lungs, is a slow-burning taster of what is to follow. It has some beautifully melodic guitar lines and powerful and affecting vocals. On Wish With Worry, Penguins Kill Polar Bears have got a great handle on the slow, shoe-gazing riff. The guitar sound is full, and fuzzy in just the right way. They back this up with some strong, simple drumming, which works brilliantly – giving the song what it needs, but never more.

Between the Tides is perhaps the stand out track of the EP. The main riff comes in slightly dissonant, leaving you with a feeling of unease, which suits the song. The vocals are prominent on this track and are achingly raw.

Penguins Kill Polar Bears have made a good record. The band are very tight and, with this second EP, they have a solid foundation from which to work. I’d be surprised if we didn’t hear bigger and better things from these boys in the not-too-far-off future.

Vessels and Veins is available from 21st February 2011, on Mountain Halo records. It will also be available in the United States and out on March 22 on Dromedary Records.

Similar Articles and Artists

Interview : Man Overboard
Gig Review : You Me At Six
Go Go Vivian Girls! — Album Review
Fang Island — Album Review

Instantly from listening to the grunge infused sound of Arizona Bay, you can hear a dramatic similarity to the coarse but beautiful voices of the likes of Cornell and Vedder. It is difficult to define their sound as it touches so many different genres; yet in doing so creates their own unique sound. Their eponymous EP released in September 2010 presents itself to the listener as a real testament of mixing grunge, rock and heart felt melodies.

Footsteps is the first track on the EP opening up with raw vocals from Rhys Williams. The guitar riff of the song really sets this track aside. There is a great guitar break in the song at 2.45 changing the pace of the track. Although the guitar from Williams and Sam Wood is distinct and contrasting, it shouldn’t but it does blend incredibly well with the tone of Williams’ vocal. This song almost represents Arizona Bay and what their musical influences are. It is a real pick n’ mix of music genres, stuck in a blender that produces this raw rock and grunge sound.

Letting Go has a different slightly calmer sound to Footsteps. The lyrics relate to the testimony of relationships. Singing of ‘finding it hard to find my place’ and ‘you gotta let me go’ allows the listener to relate to the strain and frustration. The guitar work in this song is incredibly impressive– this stapling Arizona Bay as a worthy rock band.

Nothing left to say strips the band back to core emotion. The lightness and darkness of the song is presented and used in the used of lyrical expression. Hence: ‘Two hearts beating…but goodbye’ and ‘screaming in the silence, no more’ illustrates the complication and heartache of relationships. The ‘old skool’ guitar solos in this song still enforces the bands rock undertone and works to produce a great track.

Second Best is a broken down lyrical timeline of time and change. The opening lyric: ‘Alone now, but at what cost’ matures to ‘I’ve been caught but I confess’. Inviting the listener to hear of being second best, allows the stripped back track to almost sing for itself. The song picks up at 2.30 singing of crashing and burning which can be heard in the tracks change of tempo, pace and sound.

Safe As You reverses back to the grunge infused sound that Arizona Bay are best at. The song is almost static and awkward in the melodies, it should and almost does clash, but the song still works. It could be defined as being a throw up of feeling and sin thrown together to create a sound that is raw. And this the band achieve! Singing ‘Forget me for I have sinned’ and ‘Embrace me, then erase me’ illustrates the aftermath of infidelity.

The staccato opening of Costain is intriguing. Singing ‘I’m not scared’ almost creates a juxtaposed layering of truth and sound. The hurting of the track can be found in the irregularity of the guitar riffs and the listener is left hanging as to whether the lyrics and the song will ‘break’. A great sounding track that is infused with rock and grunge tones.

White Noise sets itself pace from the very beginning of the track. Singing: ‘Every word you said, is what I scream…’ instantly raises the ear! The passion and stolen breath in the song works so well with the guitar and the thumping of the drums. The raw whisky stained vocals, gives this track real rock n’ roll status. An absolutely great track bragging: ‘it hurts like hell right now but give it time’. And this I’m sure of!

Completing the EP is Last Song Acoustic. The mellow sound that Williams’ holds in his voice captivates the listener. It is full of romantic truth yet also that of negativity. The lyrics in this song express sheer loneliness. Singing: ‘hold on, I’ll be there too long…’ exploits desperation and pity. The faded out vocal completes this song and Arizona Bay’s EP beautifully. This Leeds based four piece, are not for the faint hearted. Their truthful lyrics, raw sound and ability to create their own individual sound is something that need be applauded.

After reading New Beats Media’s ‘Featured Artists’ article on Chris Cape, I was extremely intrigued as to what an ‘indie space-rapper’ sounds like. I heard his new EP was streaming on the official website (chriscape.com). So I logged on to find out what I was missing out on!

The EP titled Message From Outer Space consists of 3 songs, with each track bringing something different to the table. The EP starts with Superstars which has a real jazzy feel about it with trumpets piping in from the very beginning. When the chorus kicks in, so does a soulful voice which gives the song a different dynamic. It nicely breaks up the rapping and gives listeners a chance to sing-a-long and become familiar with a melody. The song contains lyrics that are so fraught with attitude they could rival Katy Perry’s and you can’t help but tap or nod along to it.

Major Tom is the song which is accompanied by a music video. Today the video has been released into the world of YouTube and you can view it right here. The video, continuing on with the space theme, is set in a space ship and shows Chris Cape partying with his friends on their way through outer space. There are even a few dance moves thrown in to the mix. The song has hints of the Bloodhound Gang’s Bad Touch (without the rude lyrics!), so have a listen if you are a fan of that.

My favourite track on the EP has to be the bonus track Major Tom (Reprise). The song has a big summery vibe about it and it is a great track to wind down the EP. It seems as though everyone making this song was just jamming in the studio having a good time and I can see this being played in the park on a hot, summer day.

Judging by the first listen of the EP, I wasn’t too certain. Is Chris Cape’s music so alien (pardon the pun) from the mainstream that people will find it a step too far ahead of the trend? Hell no! Within hours I found myself humming Superstars and the more I listened, the more I liked. I would recommend Chris Cape to fans of 3OH!3, Hadouken! and Midnight Beast, all of these bands are known for doing something original and Chris Cape is very much following in their footsteps.

You cannot say Chris Cape is sitting back and letting people come to him. With a blog, a Myspace page, a Facebook profile and constant Twitter updates Chris Cape is hungry for recognition. So is the sky the limit for this space man? I think not. I think there is a lot more to come…

You can purchase the EP Message From Outer Space through chriscape.com and you can view the video for Major Tom, amongst various other Chris Cape clips on ChrisCapeTV.

After a very successful 2010, a year that has seen him collaborate with Grime icon and Roll Deep member, Wiley, as well as gaining airplay from BBC Radio 1, BBC 1Xtra, Galaxy and Juice FM for his summertime single, and MOBO record of the week Fire It Up. Liverpool artist KOF has decided to close the year in style with the release of his All Good mixtape.

The mixtape consists of 14 tracks and is available to download free of charge from kofmusic.com, this is a great gesture from Kof and his record label One Hundred Global during these economically tough times. Production is provided by Niteryders, Flux Pavillion, Chew Fu, DJ Deekline, Chartstalker and Kev Willow.

On Can’t Stop Kof has worked alongside Project Talent UK 2007 finalist, Jay Norton and Run Da Track features R.I.O who has previously worked with Kof on Janiece Myers’ track Future Sounds. The standout tracks on the mixtape include Reefer which samples DJ Deekline’s iconic track I Don’t Smoke. Other highlights include: Brand New Groove with man of the moment, Wiley, a Niteryder produced remix of NewBeatsMedia’s anthem of summer 2010, Fire It Up feat Wiley and Chelcee Grimes, the dance-inspired Supersonic featuring Keshia Santos and the title track of the mixtape All Good which features Liverpool-based singer and songwriter, Esco Williams. The All Good single has been added to the 1Xtra playlist and an accompanying music video has also been produced. The video has proved to be popular with viewers of the digital television station AKA Channel.

What remains consistent throughout the mixtape with Kof’s previous work is his ability to unite Urban and Dance genres to create melodic tracks with articulate and witty lyrics.

With more live dates and further promotion already planned for next year, 2011 promises to be even more prosperous than 2010 was for Kof. Due to his phenomenal talent and his excellent choice in producers and featured artists I would be amazed if Kof is not on the shortlist for a MOBO award when the awards ceremony takes place in November 2011.

Forming as a five piece in 2009, this energetic group of lads have since quickly and by no means quietly established themselves on the gigging scene. Hitting up the UK with their headline tour last summer, they played 45 gigs in 3 months. A year on and No Lights at Lockdown have already featured on BBC Radio 1 and more recently BBC Radio Wales, where they played live on Bethan Elfyn’s esteemed show BBC Introducing.

The band confidently relished the opportunity to perform live on the show renowned for seeking out and showcasing the crème de la crème of unsigned talent and their rendition was very well received. Elfyn has since shown her continued support for the lads, regularly playing their tracks to the masses.

After working in the recording studio this July, the group have now released their first EP, Mark Set Go, which boasts a unique, potent blend of rock and pop, and there are some outstanding highlights in amongst the 6 designated tracks.

Mark Set Go

Lost in the Background introduces the EP and is in essence the establishing shot for the remainder of the collection. A fast paced track with an eye of the tiger kind of vigour, heavy on the percussion and strong on the vocals, it’s the kind of tune you’d use to illustrate success, so much drive and determination does it effuse. Instrumentally dexterous and vocally strong, motivational it is, dreary it is not. With a punk rock energy sustained throughout the track, this song would kick a live performance off fantastically, as it engages and doesn’t allow any room for the listener to escape the fizzling energy of the group. And you wouldn’t want to – you just want to jump in there with them.

Coming Back Around is just as vivacious; launching straight into the vocals, it engages the listener and volunteers a catchy chorus that gives the song a more pop like tone than some of the other tracks. The backing vocals are pleasantly delivered almost as an antiphonic chant that makes you want to bellow along with them. The instrumentals take a bit of a back seat about 2 minutes in and the vocals take centre stage for a short moment, adding a bit of the unexpected to this track and once again keeping the listener on their toes.

Exit Stage Left is number 3 on the record but, for me, No.1 of the album. This captivating tune offers the same fast-paced, punk sound that threads the collection together. The lead singer, Chris Edge, does justice to his surname and demonstrates an impressive vocal range in the opening few chords, successfully reaching high and edgy. The chorus is almost anthemic and unlike most of the other tracks, this song has a good 30 seconds of instrumental introduction before launching into the vocals, an opportunity for the band to showcase their adept instrumental framework.

Mark Set Go – the album’s namesake – finishes the collection off with a bang, and holds it’s own as the characterisation of the entire EP. Rich Newsome on the drums demonstrates captivating percussion in this track with his dexterity and evident enthusiasm. Thematically a song about striving forward and reaching high, the track is both lyrically and acoustically motivational. With the same stage shaking tempo heard throughout the album Mark Set Go is vivacious, determined and fun – a clear indication that the boys have poured the essence of themselves into this cracking collection.

Overall, Mark Set Go strikes a wonderfully edgy chord for a debut, bouncing between metal, rock and punky pop, yet with a verve that is rarely seen in a band so recently established. Profound on the percussion, this EP is turbo charged and the vigorous instrumental component is matched with equally energetic vocals, without being uncomfortable to listen to. This lot already know their essence, and with this tidy collection the band put themselves on the musical map with a unique and inerasable stamp.

Similar Articles and Artists

Interview with Steve Diggle from the Buzzcocks
The Greenhornes : **** — Album Review
Stagecoach : Plug ‘N’ Play — Gig Review
Illness : For All You ABC 1’s Out There
Buy Mark Set Go — Itunes

As with One Man Mission’ R.I.P has once again collaborated with other acts, one of whom will be familiar to New Beats Media readers, Mavrique who features on three tracks, Let’s Do It, Movin’ Out and my favourite track on the mix tape the inspiring, We Takin Over The World. Other artists on the mix tape are: David Ray, DJ Corbett and Anne.

Duval’s Prodigy features an eclectic mix of heavy rap tracks and more chilled out Soul-infused tracks as well as everything in-between. The Realest track will appeal to people who like their no holds barred Rap music with hard-hitting lyrics. The excellent Soul-infused track, Can’t Back Down features the delightful vocals of Anne.

Rap Is Power has taken the key components; strong, thought-provoking lyrics, heavy beats and authentic Rap music mixed with a tinge of Soul that made One Man Mission so good and has combined them with improved production. Rap Is Power has really progressed as an artist since his last mix tape and he is showing a maturity beyond his tender years. Duval’s Prodigy is an impressive mix tape that has given Rap Is Power an excellent platform to gain further exposure which will hopefully see him land a richly deserved recording contract.

Rap Is Power never fails to delivery lyrically or musically. If he can continue to progress as an artist he has every chance of landing his dream of Takin Over The World.

To listen or download Rap Is Power — Duval’s Prodigy visit datpiff.com

More Than Conquerors are the latest band to emerge from the ever creative Northern Irish music scene. This week sees the release of their self titled début EP. The five song set is well thought out, each track different from the last.

I’ve Done Nothing/I’ve Done It All is a superb opener. It simmers along for fifty seconds until the distortion pedals are hit and vocalist Kris Platt drops the big hook — Darling we all have dreams is the line soon to be sung in bathrooms, kitchens and traffic jams across the land. Go On, Go On Get Out follows and if anything steps things up a gear, another splendid melody this time over a tight groove in the verses before exploding into life with a towering chorus.

The overall sheen and professionalism is impressive for a first EP, the snare snaps, the guitars crunch, everything is where it should be. Too often with a record so early in a bands career the production is sloppy and lets the songs down. That’s not the case here; the vocals are up front and clear. If it wasn’t for the wall of sound choruses this could almost be a pop record. In fact scratch that. Pop isn’t a dirty word, not when it’s done right. More Than Conquerors come armed with ridiculously catchy melodies, but have just enough edge to make each song an exhilarating listen. The most charming thing about this EP however is it’s delightful little tangents, Crooked Old World and Home Is A Red Dress feature banjo and folkie melodies in stark contrast to the angular guitar work on the rest of the EP. This hints at a possible change of direction with future releases. It will certainly be interesting to see what happens next.

More Than Conquerors is available from 15th November and can be found at the bands mysapce and from smalltownamerica.co.uk

Their unique brand of ‘other’ music really does sound like nothing else; it changes direction so quickly, one is unsure of where exactly the next chugging riff will hit you from. You should have it in CD collection as a statement. It’s a record to bewilder your friends. If only to terrify your other ‘safe’ records it’s worth it! File Illness next to Iglesias, not for alphabetical reasons of course, but because For All You ABC 1’s Out There may well melt Hero into submission on first contact.

Illness — For All You ABC 1’s Out There is out now and is available from smalltownamerica.co.uk

Listening to Purple Kloud’s sound track, Tha Candle Cravingz EP, it is clear from the first song that Purple Kloud has created a new sound. Tha Candle Cravingz EP is an adventurous and successful alternative mix of acoustic and R&B. This album is an insightful adventure in today’s music industry, breaking away from commercial rap.

Listening to the entire album I can only conclude that there is a wide variety of genres from the engaged listening to the easy listening, songs to match any mood.

I will of course not claim that this is for everyone, I would suggest this to those that are searching for something new, maybe you haven’t found exactly the kind of music that suits you? If so then you should give this a try. It’s new, original, alternative, unique, mellow and yet also engaging.

In its changing new approach to rap, a better and I’ll bet more popular change, is it is suitable to all ages without being childish or ‘disney’. Put it on in the car or house without fear of the little ears picking up something they shouldn’t.

If your looking for a straight forward comparison in order to judge whether or not you should listen to this album then the best similarity I can give Purple Kloud is by saying that although it is very unique it also still encompasses a certain Lighthouse Family vibe, and we all know there is no better vibe then a Lighthouse Family vibe!

The only reason I can think of not to listen to this album would be if your in a comfortable and un-moving rut listening to the pop and ‘communally popular’ music today.

Purple Kloud is a genre of music that is capable of standing up on its own. In short summary of this album: creative, different, very ‘listenable’!

What was about the grunge era that made it a forbidden rule to be happy, bands like Nirvana were a far cry from that of the throwing caution to the wind concept of 80s bands. Recently bands like Scissor Sisters have injected some much needed fun back into the music scene while maintaining the respect of music peers for being a highly acclaimed band. The Eleven 37s are much the same; an album that is a whirl of fun yet maintains the thread through-out that what we are dealing with here is a bunch of talented musicians.

Bearing in mind I get sent about as many CDs to review as Santa does with letters asking for everything that won’t fit on the back of a sledge, the Eleven 37s CD drops upon my mat and before I even listen to the CD I get the feeling that these guys are going to be more than worthy of a listen. Included with their CD is a hand-made pamphlet, included within is a labyrinth of information which I quite happily indulge whist embracing the CD, honestly ask yourself when was the last time you did that?

Let’s focus our attention on the soulful voice of Jamie Topp, a voice that supersedes his age and gels the band together, bassist Nick Bentley is like a super happy Bruce Foxton with his funk bass lines. The particular gem on the album has to be Here Comes The Storm, lively, energetic rush of funk that really does do what it Jamie sings ‘I’m going to make you so happy to be alive’. Straywire and Personality echoes a sense of an early Red Hot Chilli Peppers influence, a storm in a tea cup of funk, with its heavier guitar and vocals working in harmony. The whole album is the sort of album that you could brave the Happy Shoppers at Christmas with, instead of the usual urge to pull a Richard Ashcroft and mow everyone out of the way! It has to be said The Eleven 37s are a group of guys sounding like what appears to be the times of their lives.

Northern Irelands finest Fighting With Wire have recently announced their UK and Irish Tour, they will be back on the road for their first tour in over a year as they prepare to unleash their new album Bones Of The Twilight in 2011, released on Atlantic Records. Fighting With Wire have also announced they will be selling a new EP entitled I AM URSUS exclusively at all UK shows, giving fans a taster of what’s to come on the new album.

Tour Details:

01/11/10 Stereo, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
02/11/10 The Shipping Forecast, Liverpool, UK
03/11/10 HMV Institute Temple, Birmingham, UK
04/11/10 Cellar, Oxford, UK
05/11/10 Joiners, Southampton, UK
07/11/10 Prince Albert, Brighton, UK
08/11/10 Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Wales, UK
09/11/10 Barfly, London, UK
15/12/10 Scala, London, UK (with Helmet + La Faro)
16/12/10 Club Academy, Manchester, UK
17/12/10 Cathouse, Glasgow, Scotland, UK

Fighting With Wire emerged from the ever creative Northern Ireland music scene in 2003, the brainchild of guitarist Cahir O’Doherty (Jetplane Landing / Clearshot) and drummer Craig McKean (Clearshot). An idealistic bunch, they’ve since done what rock bands are meant to do: they wrote a bunch of songs, and took to the road. The last three years has seen them play shows with the likes of Reuben, Biffy Clyro, Million Dead, Seafood, YCNI:M and Future Of The Left, racking up hundreds of miles and honing their live show into a ferocious explosion in the process. After putting out a number of limited edition DIY singles, they took a breather at the end of 2006 and finally started work on their long awaited debut album. Recorded in Northern Ireland and finally completed in mid-2007, Man Vs Monster is a dynamic beast of a record – raging out of your speakers one moment, gentle and intricate the next. All without losing focus of what’s important: the song.

For the last year FWW have been writing and recording their 2nd album Bones Of The Twilight in Nashville with producer Nick Raskulinecz (Alice In Chains, Foo Fighters, Deftones) due for release early next year on Atlantic records.

The new 4 track EP I AM URSUS contains previously unreleased material and will only be available at the UK shows, the band are excited about getting back on the road again and working towards the album release in 2011.

I thought the pop-punk five-some deserved a good ol’ listen. Slip-on Vans and floppy haircuts at the ready!!!

I’ve always been a fan of a bit of pop-punk. Oh, I remember the days of listening to countless songs by American bands about breaking up with girls and err … well that was about it really. Then I’d throw on my studded belt, jump on my skateboard and go and hang out around whatever town-centre memorial of patch of grass I felt fit. And with no disrespect I didn’t think the music of my misled youth was still being made. Until, I listened to these guys! Oh, to be 14 again!

Bringing out their first, self titled album in 2007 (find it on iTunes). The Floridians sold a whopping 11,000 copies off their own backs, free of fat-cat marketing and with nothing more than elbow grease and a can-do-attitude. Following shortly after was a wave of local radio airplay, local publication press and before they could unplug their guitars they were rubbing elbows with the likes of All-American Rejects, Less than Jake and Hello Goodbye at festivals and concerts.

I managed to get my grubby little mitts on a copy of their latest EP – Reset, Produced by Pete Thornton (produced Paramore and Shinedown).

With the lead single Just Refrain getting as much attention as it is, this EP has real potential to take the band to the next level. Just Refrain has recently been picked up by numerous sporting events – featuring at the 2010 winter Olympics, TNA wrestling and the final four of the NCAA (that’s the National Collegiate Athletic Association – College sports). Three of the bands tracks including Just Refrain have been picked to be played by the MLB network (That’s major league baseball, people!).

“So is it any good?” I hear the non-baseball fans out there shouting. Just Refrain is everything you’d expect from a pop-punk anthem. Loads of lyrics about drinking with friends and problems with the opposite sex. But it’s got that edge that I’ve always loved about bands such as All-American Rejects and Motion city soundtrack. It’s fun and bouncy but at the same time a well written, mature pop song. This time baby is very much in the same ball park (ahh, get it?). Punk-y power chord stabs, big drums and certain tone to the song that I could see being a great hit in the alternative clubs and on the teenage girls I-pods. Its definite a stand out track on the EP – I picked up the words to the chorus within about 25 seconds and I continued to sing it for the rest of the night. The track No goodbyes offers something in the way of an emotional, powerful break-up soundtrack that you would expect from any self-respecting pop-punk five-some, but it’s really good! It’s got meaningful lyrics that everyone can relate to and still manages to maintain the sing-along quality it shares with the rest of the EP.

It’s just a big load of fun and bouncy pop-punk!

Y’know what? The whole thing is brilliant for what it is and being labelled as ‘buzz-worthy’ by MTV you can’t really argue. If you’re looking for a band who can write catchy, care-free pop punk then Orange Avenue are the band to listen to. This EP has all the elements of Motion City Soundtrack, Hello Goodbye and All-American rejects but with a ballsier sound. You can really dance to every track and in these dark depressing times of responsibility and 70p chocolate bars, don’t you just wanna grab your skateboard and pretend you were a teenager again?!

Orange Avenue - Just Refrain

One of the things I’ve always liked about Bibelots is that you can clearly hear their musical influences when they craft a song, but yet they also manage to stamp a unique Bibelots trade mark to the mix. For an unsigned band to have developed their own sound so early is remarkable in my opinion. It’s danceable 21st century Indie rock that knows exactly where it came from and also where it’s going.

And as for production values — I was impressed with their previous effort but this latest EP has raised the bar considerably. I can’t find a fault with the mix at all. Everything is showcased when and where it should be and I would be very surprised if they hadn’t spent a considerable amount of time in the studio getting this one to sound exactly the way they wanted it to.

A Bibelots track is rarely if ever just a straightforward 1–4-5 rock progression, perpetually returning to the starting point like a dog chasing its tail. You’ll soon notice that they are quite fond of using the bridges and choruses to juxtapose a cross-genre theme or sound against the verse. Yes you can hear their Blues, Classic and Indie rock influences, but those are often mixed up with interesting bits of Electro, from synths to samples, and inevitably the result is a much more sophisticated Rock-n-Roll stew.

Their eclectic approach to song crafting is exemplified perfectly in the title track No Other Way Out. It opens with an electro hum and an almost mournful plea from vocalist Ben Richardson before Neil Athey’s rhythm guitar slices in with a most heavy thunder crunch that reminds me of one of Jack White’s tones somehow — either on Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground or Seven Nation Army — but actually heavier — and Jimmy Page himself would appreciate the heavy simplicity of the hook. But here’s where we get iconic Bibelots in action because the song doesn’t remain in Uber rock territory for long. A few bars later and the resonant vocals are back with Bobby Harrison on keys adding a moody electro beat/groove reminiscent of The Orb in its heyday. The song alternates between the crunch and the groove, with added psychedelic samples thrown in for good measure. All in all, an iconic Bibelots track in my opinion, despite the fact that’s its actually consistently heavier than their more danceable fare.

It’s Already in The Blood has the unenviable job of following up a real powerhouse and takes an entirely different course. Rooted firmly in British Indie rock with delicate digital delay rhythm guitar tinkles (think U2 — sort of) and a jangly lead tone and hook, this is more typical Bibelots fare. We’re talking about a catchy vocal with conscious lyrics, the usual interplay between chorus and verse, and an upbeat musical atmosphere. You can really appreciate the synergy here and I’m inclined to comment on the importance of Ben’s vocals to the Bibelots sound. His voice suits their music perfectly. A very British band all in all.

Innercity is a potential summer festival anthem number and opens with an Electro beat and a signature Bibelots guitar twangle (I just made that up I think). Gaz Evans injects a definitively funky groove into the base line throughout the track and Athey’s guitar layering is evident here too — joining in the funky chops and laying down the riff where appropriate. My favorite bit occurs just after the half way mark — an absolutely production perfect slow-build to a classic crescendo with everything plus a few extra bits thrown in at the explosion point. Tim Fielding’s drum work at the critical moment creates the perfect tension and release. Mint. Rave perfect. Electro-rock fusion salad. And did I say funky?

All in all No Other Way Out will delight current Bibelots fans and should go some way towards gaining the band the wider acclaim they deserve. As a slice of what the band is capable of, I think it showcases their strengths, range and virtuosity in a most favorable light. Add to that a perfect production package and you’re laughing really. I gave their last EP a 9/10, but considering the fact that they’ve just raised the bar on production standards to the top I’m going to have to allot them a perfect 10 for this effort.

I’m still standing by my prediction that Bibelots will get signed by a major label, and that if given half a chance they’ll one day be hanging their hats on the Rock-n-Roll wall of fame and infamy.