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Showing posts with label review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label review. Show all posts

Monday, 4 November 2013

The Colours of Kings - Up

The Colours of Kings - Up
Picture source: http://thecoloursofkings.bandcamp.com/album/up-ep

Artist: The Colours of Kind
Singles - Up 
Genre: electronic indie rock synth pop

Listen to their EP Up:


Emerging from the heart of Louisville, USA, comes a fresh-faced and enthusiastic band with brimming potential. Taking on the persona of 'music's new Tom Sawyer', indie punk band The Colours of Kings are ruling the charts with their debut EP released this September, Up. 

For indie music lovers who take pride in finding the next upcoming success, this band should be on top of the priority list. Despite a small following, the band is producing a big sound, which may easily creep into mainstream attention. 

The Colours of Kings - Up

Producing an authentic feel throughout each track, Up encapsulates the band's love for Traveling, roaming, eating, drinking, reading, and reflects it through a genuine approach to their music. Having written the EP in amongst small pubs and alleyways within their hometown, and produced the tracks within in-house basement studios, one cannot help but fall for the rustic appeal that The Colours of Kings exuberates.

Influenced by bands such as The Talking Heads, MGMT, Radiohead, The Postal Service and Mates of State, The Colours of Kings derive their music from a vast array of different musical sub-genres. Within the band's four-track EP, the band dabbles with their stylistic approach from song-to-song, whilst still maintaining an integral unique approach throughout. This experimentation within debut releases is understandable, if not expected for upcoming bands that are beginning to find their feet within the industry. Genre blending, in this sense, is an opportunistic means for a band such as The Colours of Kings to diversify and expand their musical horizons in the early stages of development. 

Up's first track, "My Heart is a Drum Machine", begins with a celestial orchestral piece, that slowly emerges into an upbeat drum track, setting up the band's indie approach to their music. With each member of the trio a multi-instrumentalist (J. Bishop on guitar/keyboard/vocals, C. Steward on bass/keyboard/vocals and G. Chamberlain on drums/programming/vocals), the instrumentalist work by all three members is impressive to say the least. Despite the high workload, the band makes their songs seem effortless. Wistful vocals and a soft mixture of complementing instrumental pieces lend weight to a serene atmosphere surrounding their music. 

The following self-titled track, "The Colours of Kings", echoes this rhetoric. In this song, the use of the band's keyboards is more prominent, underpinning the entirety of the track. In songs such as this, the electronic and synth pop influences of the band are most prevalent. The chorus in particularly, is catchy for both indie lovers and newcomers alike. With a little more experience under their belt, tracks such as these should make their way into the mainstream spectrum in little to no time at all. 


"This Year's Hometown Hero" and "We're an Archipelago" are further examples of the band's mix of genre influences. From punk infused vocals and synthesised beats, to indie mixed with soft alt. rock, the band are already mastering the diversification needed to expand and grow for future releases. 

Overall, The Colours of Kings have serious potential for upcoming releases. For indie music lovers who love an 'underground' flair, The Colours of Kings are a best suited choice. 

For any additional information, head to the band's Facebook or Reverbnation pages, or to download a copy of Up, visit the official band website here. 

By Lily Pavlovic posted 5 November 2013, for STSBM

Simon and The Bande A Part - Am I The Worm

Picture source: https://www.facebook.com/simonandthebandeapart

Artist: Simon and The Bande A Part 
Singles - Am I The Worm
Genre: acoustic, folk

Listen to Blinking & Breathing:





Yet another success to grace the Cape Town shores is South African folk rock band, Simon and The Bande A Part. A developmental indie project created by singer/songwriter Simon Van Gend, the trio are making waves both locally and overseas with their latest single, 'Am I The Worm?' from their fourth studio album, Blinking and Breathing.

Songs That Should Be Mainstream fans may be well acquainted with this band via the bassist, Eric Michot (Mr. Kito), who has been featured for his solo expedition in an earlier STSBM piece (which can be viewed here). Michot and drummer Ross Campbell accompany Van Gend to create seamless compilations of original and distinctive music. 'Am I the Worm?' encapsulates the quirky niche of indie-folk that the band has naturally created for themselves, while simultaneously appealing to a broad and diverse audience across the globe.

Simon and The Bande A Part - Am I The Worm

Working with established Australian producer Ian Pritchett, who is best known for his work with folk sensations 'Angus and Julia Stone' and Australian roots music band 'The Beautiful Girls', Simon and The Bande A Part is shaping up to follow in the footsteps of these indie greats, rapidly rising to first place on the Reverbnation Folk charts for ZA in Cape Town earlier this year. Furthermore, with almost 30,000 fans on Facebook, the band is gaining a significant online following to support their upcoming releases.

It's no wonder Simon and The Bande A Part have received such positive attention from their fans. Each release from the band is well-crafted, displaying ingenuity and thoughtfulness in each track of the album. Am I The Worm? is particularly thought-provoking as it details the struggles of a man riddled with misfortune, searching for 'sunlight' within his life. The notion of life experiences expressed through song is indicative of the folk music genre that the band pertains to.

What results is a hybrid mix of rustic folk renditions entwined within a jovial and upbeat tune consistent with more modern stylistic forms of the 'folk' practice. Simon and the Bande A Part have created a balance within their music that both traditional and contemporary folk enthusiasts can enjoy.

Taking their music to the next level, the band have been known to include unique and unusual instruments in the compilation of their music. Including a vast range of instrumental accompaniments within their music, Blinking and Breathing in particular has increased the band's musical threshold. Including a french horn, mandolin, banjo, harmonica and bandoneon within their music, Simon and the Bande A Part are exploring new territories and expanding their minds to a new range of possibilities previously unconsidered by other folk-rock bands of today.

With such unique avenues explored within Am I The Worm and the album overall, it is gripping to imagine the potential for Simon and The Bande A Part to explore within their future releases. With such an overwhelmingly expanding fan-base, the band can only look towards bigger ventures within the years to come.

You can find more information on Simon and The Bande A Part on the official webpageFacebook and Twitter accounts.

To buy a copy of Am I The Worm (single), or Blinking and Breathing (album), click <<here>>.

By Lily Pavlovic posted 5 November 2013, for STSBM

Tuesday, 15 October 2013

From Slaves to Kings - (individual single releases).

From Slaves to Kings - (individual single releases).
Picture source: http://www.kilo943.com/2013/04/page/4/

Artist: From Slaves to Kings - (individual single releases). 
Singles - individual releases
Genre: rock, metal 

Listen to their latest singles


Fans of Avenged Sevenfold, As I Lay Dying and Five Finger Death Punch rejoice - the latest addition to this hard-rock family is Texan-born quintet: From Slaves to Kings. With killer guitar riffs, catchy choruses and a traditional rock/nu metal-esque sound, the band is gaining attention with each release of individual tracks throughout the year. 

Considering each other 'brothers' both on and off the stage, the band has a chemistry that flows through their music and on to their live performances. Praised for their energetic stage performance, From Slaves to Kings have worked towards rock royalty: winning a series of accolades within their home town of Colorado for first place in the Indy Music Awards, People's Choice winner for Best Progressive Hard-Rock Band and Best Vocalist categories. 

Opening for rock band Hoobastank, 12 Stones and I Wrestled a Bear Once, the band has increasingly gained momentum since its inception in 2011. Regular appearances on online radio streaming sites such as Pandora.com have seen the band's fan base grow into the thousands, hailing not only from America, but to a further worldwide audience. 

From Slaves to Kings - (individual single releases).

As of late, the band has focussed on providing their fans with some fresh new music. Teasing the masses with snippets of their upcoming track 'Feeding the Flies' via Soundcloud links, the band is preparing for more songs at a faster pace. Unfortunately for From Slaves To Kings, however, the focus on creating this music has caused a lapse in the number of live shows played in the past months, in comparison to October of the previous year. From Slaves to Kings assure that the band is 'back on track', playing gigs throughout the month to concert-hungry fans. 

Part of the band's enticing live performance is the ability to sing along to the catchy choruses. In particular, the song listed 'Track 5' is a great example of this - FSTK are able to create the same heavy rock ambience that fans crave, without compromising the use of lead singer Jason Coahran's clean vocal work. From Slaves to Kings are unique in the sense that for a rock band, they do not require the hyper-usage of screaming or overtly grungy vocals; instead focussing on perfecting a high-quality and well-established sound without taking away from the band's genuine talent and authentic atmosphere. 

Overall, the band appear to have a chemistry between them that is both effective and original both within their studio music and live renditions. However, From Slaves to Kings still have a long path before them. With a full studio album yet to be released, it may be a short while before the band take the throne to rule the hard-rock charts. Nevertheless, the band has both a promising outlook and killer sounds to boot. Both fans of FSTK and onlookers of the rock scene are warned: Watch this space and remember the name. 

From Slaves to Kings are currently playing across Colarado Springs. You can reach the band via Facebook, Twitter or Reverbnation pages for news, upcoming gigs and additional information. 

By Lily Pavlovic posted 15 October 2013, for STSBM

A Course of Action - Singles: 107 and Who We Are.

A Course of Action - Singles: 107 and Who We Are.
Picture source: http://www.untappedradio.com/

Artist: A Course of Action
Singles: 107 & Who We Are
Genre: rock, metal 

Listen to the single 107


North Carolina quartet A Course of Action are considered 'the band next door' - resonating with many  fans as 'four normal guys from the South making great rock music'. However, their latest releases '107' and 'Who We Are' have exposed their talent to a whole new level - becoming the talk of the town in the rock and metal spectrum.

Neighbouring on bands such as Sevendust, Five-Finger Death Punch and Alter-Bridge, A Course of Action are rapidly drawing attention from fans across America and gaining an international following since their single releases. Playing weekly shows across the south in the U.S, the band is gaining a loyal following with enthusiastic live performances and a quality sound.

A Course of Action - Singles: 107 and Who We Are. 


The band's first debut studio album, Dark Before the Dawn stands as a testament to 'hard work paying off' for the band. After months of production, the nine track album rose to both domestic and international success - with album tracks playing on stations Q Star Radio and Occupation Radio, and online stations Jango Music, IndyPalooza, and Raidio Corca Baiscinn (Ireland) providing increased exposure for a growing number of fans. 

Now, A Course of Action are expanding on thematic structures, sonic richness and a solid rock base within their most recent releases, '107' and 'Who We Are'. '107' in particular is the band's triumph: providing a seamless mainstream metal sound that is carried out with expert precision and diligence. With a Stone Sour-esque vibe to the chorus, metal and rock fans can't help but become absorbed in the rough vocals, clever lyrics and killer guitar-shreding solos characteristic of classic rock and metal sound.

'107' has become increasingly more popular with fans since its release. It is a prime example of the band's capabilities, however both fans and reviewers alike urge ACOA not to rest on their laurels just yet - as the track allows room to both progress and develop in future albums in terms of finding a niche for themselves, and developing from classic genres to a more diverse and original sound.

'Who We Are' to an extent demonstrates some of these capabilities. This track slows down the tempo in comparison to the band's other releases, showcasing the band's adaptability to both hard and soft rock styles. However, in doing so, the chorus is perhaps not as punchy as 107 and tracks from Dark Before the Dawn. 'Who We Are' is best suited for fans of  bands such as Creed or Shinedown, as it is a distinct step away from the hard rock of the band's previous work. 

By juxtaposing 'Who We Are' with the band's former releases, it is difficult to speculate where ACOA may head in the future. With glimpses of diverse directions to which they may lead, it will be interesting to see whether the band continues their hard-rock roots, or branches out into softer rock sub-genres seen in their latest tracks. 

Either way, A Course of Action seem to be on the path to success. With a plethora of live shows on the horizon, fans will love whatever course the band decides to take. 

You can visit their OFFICIAL website here

By Lily Pavlovic posted 15 October 2013, for STSBM

Friday, 16 August 2013

Culture Shock - When Did You Know (Lomaticc Dub)

Artist: Culture Shock Ft Lomaticc
Presented By: 747 Records
Track: When Did You Know (Daniel Beddingfield Cover)
Genre: pop, ballad, desi, dance, electro



Culture Shock - When Did You Know (Song Review)

The trio: Sunny Brown, Lomaticc and Baba Khan are known for their sensational pop covers of modern music. The latest dub released by desi crew Culture Shock, is of the famous Daniel Beddingfield track "Sometimes You Just Know." It's a must have song, made free for download by the boys. 

‘When Do You Know’ is an emotional pop based cover of the original reggae inspired song by Daniel Beddingfield. It's a track sure to be a hit amongst pop fans, especially those who enjoy a brilliant vocal listen, especially if you're into the more classical pop/rnb tunes released by singers such as Nick Carter, and NKOTB . It's quite different to the trio's usual upbeat remixes which infuse electro hip-hop melodies with dubstep drops. This is truly one song which showcases the versatility of the group, proving to tailor the best of both pop-dance music and slow pop-ballad tunes. 

Vocals by Lomaticc are a must in every Culture Shock Dub! Lomaticc should be credited for his ability to outperform Daniel Beddingfield's vocal delivery. It's lyrically a great song, one which encompasses an emotional love tale thats difficult to showcase through an upbeat pop song. But Lomaticc is sensational, with vocal clarity that is inspirational, delivered over a soulful pop ballad that uplifts the heart. The verses are the entrance to the dynamic chorus performance, with Daniel Beddingfield surely admitting defeat to the dreamy voice of Lomaticc. The music video was released yesterday, and is available for download outside of Canada at: 
https://www.facebook.com/cultureshockfans

Friday, 9 August 2013

The Jungle Giants - Skin to Bone (Song Review)

This Brisbane born band comprises of members Sam Hales (Vocals/Guitar), Cesira Aitken (lead guitar), Andrew Dooris (Bass Guitar/Backing Vocals) and Keelan Bijker (Drums).

You may be aware of the popular Australian indie-pop band “The Jungle Giants.” This Brisbane born band comprises of members Sam Hales (Vocals/Guitar), Cesira Aitken (lead guitar), Andrew Dooris (Bass Guitar/Backing Vocals) and Keelan Bijker (Drums). 


The Jungle Giants - learn to exist

Album Tracklist - Learn to Exist:

1. Come And Be Alone With Me
2. I Am What You Want Me To Be
3. Got Nothing To Lose
4. A Pair Of Lovers
5. Truth May Hurt
6. Devil's In The Detail
7. Skin To Bone
8. She's A Riot
9. Domesticated Man
10. Anywhere Else
11. Home

Track Review - Skin to Bone:

Artist: The Jungle Giants
Track: Skin to Bone
Genre: indie-pop, indie-rock, aussie
The Jungle Giants have always been more at home with the strong pop influence in their indie-rock sound, and after checking out their much anticipated video for ‘Skin to Bone," it’s not so difficult to imagine why this group is making Australian charts. If you’re heading over to Australia this year, make sure you go and hear this band live! It’s one which impresses. 
“Skin to Bone” (featured on their debut album Learn To Exist) is easily one of the band’s most experimental tracks yet, with a brilliantly catchy vocal opening and groovy guitar tunes, progressing into what could be labelled as the catchiest indie-pop track of the band. The chorus takes on an up-tempo pop/rock vibe with 70‘s rock hints in the old “wuh-ta-du-du-too-ooh-ooh-wooh-ooh” vocal riff. Sam Hales puts on an excellent performance, bringing back those heart warming lyrical content and kooky vocals. Quite different to anything we’ve heard from the band before –  this being one of their most impressive release out of all their previous singles. 
 I personally love the sound
It’s a track with a killer feel-good melody, with powerful hard-drumming and jamming guitar riff breakdowns. Listeners could describe this song in warm adjectives; fun, colorful, powerful, energetic, bright and vibrant, and the list goes on. "Skin and Bone," finds The Jungle Giants steering into a more classic indie-rock sound.  Youtube stream this most magnificent LED video:

The Jungle Giants - Skin to Bone (LED Video)



Video Credits:

Directed and Produced by Anthony Salsone
Illustrated and Animated by John Grist

Saturday, 29 June 2013

GOLDHOUSE - Back To Life (Album)


Tracklist:

1. FeelGood
2.All Over You
3. Runaway
4. Only One
5. Don't Wanna Wake Up
6. Everything We Used To Do

Review:
FeelGood starts the album of with justly moments of nu disco composition, melancholy emotions and drum-dense beats. GOLDHOUSE leaves the listener with soul and dance sensations from modern indie pop-electronic music. Any accustomed GOLDHOUSE listener can envision this album to be a portral of our retro-future; a world sublimed with ruthless synth-heads and digitized bands.  “All Over You” is the albums best example of the New Age // Techno Jazz melodies that deja vu back to Daft Punks soul influenced album 'Memories.'

GOLDHOUSE - FeelGood


GOLDHOUSE - All Over You


GOLDHOUSE -  Runaway 


GOLDHOUSE -  Only One


GOLDHOUSE - Don't Wanna Wake Up 



GOLDHOUSE - Everything We Used To Do




Friday, 3 May 2013

TOM LISTER IMPRESSES WITH HIS HEAVENLY VOCALS & LIGHT MELODIES

Tom Lister

Artist: Tom Lister 
Debut Album: Who's Trevor
Similar Artist: Matt Cardle, Kimbra, Lenka
From: Pontefract/Leeds, Britain (UK)
Genre: alternative, acoustic, pop 
Contact: http://www.facebook.com/tomlisteruk, https://soundcloud.com/tom-lister-music

I’ve discovered an exceptionally interesting alternative pop artist known as Tom Lister.  His most recent debut album "Who's Trevor" which makes use of soft vocals, light melodies, fun, upbeat guitar jams, and integrates a sweet pop feel. At first I thought his music was just similar to common alt-pop tunes, but after a couple of listenings I knew I had found someone incredible.

His music would definitely appeal to various musical likings and that's why I decided to share Tom's music around.

Take a listen:

Mainly Water - Tom Lister



Stellar Heart - Tom Lister



Julia And Lyle - Tom Lister