Tag: indie electronic

#FeelGoodFriday: The 1975 – ‘Give Yourself A Try’

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The 1975 have just made a triumphant return with their brand new single, ‘Give Yourself A Try’.

Taken from their upcoming third album, A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships (originally titled Music For Cars, the band are now using this as the moniker for this period of the band’s career, with a second album, Notes On A Conditional Form, already in the pipeline for May 2019), the song is set to kick off the band’s new era with a bang.

The track is much more subtle than some of their more straight-up pop tunes like ‘The Sound‘ and ‘Girls’ but has a rather ‘Chocolate’ feel to it; could this album see the band return to the sound of their debut?

I particularly like their interesting take on the world and certain aspects of it, throughout the verses, particularly the part about, ‘And what would you say to your younger self?’ – it’s a great moment in the song. Equally, whilst it’s not an instant pop anthem, the chorus is majorly catchy and I’ve found myself singing it loads already!

The music video is pretty funky too with it’s split-screen and trippy effects. I particularly love Matty’s dancing and new orange hair (is it just me or is there something a bit My Chemical Romance about it?!) and the clear guitars and drums used by the rest of the band.

This is certainly an exciting new era for the band and I can’t wait to hear their next single, and the rest of the album.

What are your thoughts of the new single from the band? Do you like the direction of their new era? Are you excited about the new album? Got a #FeelGoodFriday track to recommend us? Please leave your thoughts or song suggestions in a comment or via social media.

Matt – Muzik Speaks
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‘Give Yourself A Try’ can be downloaded off iTunes now – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/give-yourself-a-try/1389783331?i=1389783376

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#Review: Now, Now – Saved

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Now, Now are an American indie duo originally from Blaine, Minnesota (USA), now based in Minneapolis. The band now consists of founding members, KC Dalager (vocals/guitar/keyboard) and Brad Hale (drums/backing vocals) after a recent departure from their line-up. To date, they have had two, somewhat heavier albums and this, Saved, will be their third, full-length release. Here’s what we have to say about it…

Now, Now - Saved.jpg

It’s been a decade since their more thrashy, emo-esque debut album, Cars, was released (back when they were called Now, Now Every Children) but since then, Now, Now have clearly been working hard on mastering the art of slick production.

This is an album that successfully merges emotive, thought-provoking lyricism based upon relatable topics, with warm, summery production; it’s credible songwriting with certain mainstream, pop sensibilities.

Saved is a stunning record. It has everything from catchy choruses and atmospheric synths to chugging guitars and heavy beats.

It kicks off with the acoustic-led, summer tune ‘SGL’ (short for Shot-Gun Lover) which would be the perfect road trip track, through the open roads of America. From there, you’ve got the captivating ‘MJ’, which makes reference to Michael Jackson‘s ‘Billie Jean’ topped off with a galloping beat (somewhat similar to MJ‘s ‘A Place With No Name’ from 2014’s Xscape)

Another significant track is ‘Window’, with its shimmering synths and manipulated vocals, that continually ascend. It’s a song about desperation for someone;“Every night I’m at your window, Wonder when you’re gonna let me in.”A truly atmospheric track.

Just listening to this album, puts you in an instantly good mood due to its stunning production and uplifting vibes.

‘Powder’ is a massive tune and a superbly powerful and passionate close to the album; it has a catchy, fun start with delicate guitars and subtle synths but as it goes on, descends into a very interesting and heavy breakdown with gritty synths.

There are certainly a lot of resemblances that can be made across the album too: ‘Can’t Help Myself’ has whispery vocals, somewhat similar to Geowulf; ‘Knowme’ is a house-like track with calm, electronica vibes, with elements of Chicane to it; ‘Set It Free’ makes cheeky reference to “wandering hands” and has a certain something about it that reminds me of a cross between The Cardigans and Sixpence None The Richer; ‘Drive’ has a beachy, Lana Del Rey vibe and ‘Holy Water’ is a song which I find merges MUNA with early Dido (with the use of industrial-like sounds) – it’s beautiful and euphoric. That’s in no way saying that they are copying other artists but perhaps making a nod to them; if anything it just goes to show what an eclectic record they have managed to create, with a little something for everyone.

As far as albums go, this is diverse and interesting with a real excitement about it. Just listening to it, puts you in an instantly good mood due to its stunning production and uplifting vibes. They have managed to craft a sound that is somewhere between airy beach-pop and grungy rock, evoking nostalgia and varying emotions throughout. This is fantastic record that is sure to be the soundtrack to many people’s summers this year.

Rating

‘Saved’ is out now and can be downloaded from iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/saved/1365088448

Saved on Spotify

AZ (Official Video)

SGL (Official Video)

Yours (Official Video)

We hope you’ve enjoyed our review; what do you make of this band’s latest album, Saved? Are you as much of a fan as us? What would you rate it? Please leave your thoughts in a comment or via our social media.

Enjoyed this? Check out some of our other reviews here:

Muzik Speaks Album Reviews

Matt – Muzik Speaks
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#FeelGoodFriday: Gorillaz – ‘DARE’

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Gorillaz are an English-formed band, created by Damon Albarn (from Blur) and artist Jamie Hewlett, who created the characters of the virtual band. The band consists of four animated and heavily characterised members; 2-D (lead vocals and keyboard), Murdoc (bass guitar), Noodle (guitar,keyboard) and Russel (drums and percussion.)

Gorillaz.jpg

These characters are entirely fictional and relate to the members of the band in no way; they are unique and alive in their own fictional universe.

In their time, the band have released five studio albums, one remix album, three compilation albums and 16 singles.

‘Dare’ is from the album Demon Days, which was released back in 2005. The song is predominantly sung by the character of Noodle, with vocals provided by the singer Rosie Wilson and backing vocals from both Damon Albarn and Shaun Ryder. From the electronic synths and sounds to the distinguishable drum beats, this song will make you want to get up and dance… but maybe not as vivaciously as Noodle in the music video!

Screen Shot 2018-01-14 at 19.27.12
Source:https://www.allmusic.com

The music video for this song features an appearance by Shaun Ryder from the bands Happy Mondays and Black Grape; he takes up the role of the giant disembodied head, who Noodle is keeping alive by the use of various machinery. Noodle largely takes the spotlight in this video, by dancing around and singing to the camera. However, the other characters can be seen appearing in short cameos, such as 2-D listening to what is happening by pressing his ear to the floor. The music video also nods towards classic horror movies which can be seen at the start of the video, where a “reject false icons” statue can be spotted depicting Pazuzu, the figurine from The Exorcist. Crows can also be seen flying around the area which is a tribute to The Birds by Alfred Hitchcock. There are many other cameos dotted about…see if you can work out more!

Do you remember loving this song back in 2005? Are you still a fan today? Have you got your own #FeelGoodFriday song to share with us? Please leave your thoughts or song suggestions in a comment or via social media.

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‘DARE’ can be downloaded off iTunes now – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/dare/850571319?i=850571388

#EventSpeaks: Will Joseph Cook @ The Haunt, Brighton – 17/10/17

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On Tuesday 17th October 2017, Will Joseph Cook, came to Brighton to perform a set in support of his debut album, Sweet Dreamer, as well as play a couple of new songs from his upcoming EP. He was supported by Indigo Husk at the popular Brighton venue, The Haunt.

Indigo Husk

The band took to the stage with their grungy, give-a-damn appearance and although the crowd seemed a bit reticent to begin with, after a couple of songs, they had been worked up a treat, with the band’s funky brand of grunge-pop. The lead singer’s occasional ‘whoops’ and sarcastic quips were amusing, whilst the drummer was possibly one of the most engaging band members I’ve ever seen – he was witty, enthusiastic, provided great backing vocals and oozed personality through his crowd interaction. Sadly the same can’t quite be said for the bassist, who barely cracked a smile throughout and the concentration on Flynn’s face looked almost uncomfortable for him, at times. That’s not to say it was a bad performance or that they’re not a good band; it makes them who they are and they were certainly fun to watch.

Highlight:

The drummer – he was captivating and I particularly enjoyed the moments he stood up whilst drumming, taking every opportunity to interact with the audience.

Will Joseph Cook

Will Joseph Cook is a fantastic performer and his unique blend of indie vibes, electronic synths and pop hooks make for one heck of a funky, dance-infused performance.

The moment he appeared on stage, the audience burst into rapturous applause – one thing’s for sure, Will Joseph Cook has worked incredibly hard to build up a dedicated and loyal following, evidenced by the fact that the show had sold out.

His vocals were on point and his working of the stage was controlled and at times even mesmerising. I like that he is able to switch between playing the guitar and singing (which can be quite static) on some songs, whilst on others, he ditches the guitar and works the crowd – it’s great to see this diversity in his performance.

The songs he played sounded just as good as his recordings and at times, Will and the band added a nice leading intro into a song, adding something unique that you could only see and hear if you watch him live.

Not only has Will Joseph Cook produced an incredibly strong debut album (Sweet Dreamer) but his performances are remarkably captivating too. He is definitely worth watching live – make sure you catch his show next time he’s near you.

Highlights:

  • Usually I like it when there’s a lot of between-song banter from the band or artist, but Will kept this to a minimum, playing song after song, keeping the audience dancing and singing along.
  • Getting to hear a couple of his new tracks, live, was great!
  • His performances of ‘Plastic’, ‘Girls Like Me’ and new song, ‘If You Want To Make Money’, all really stood out to me.
  • Will and the band’s abilities to make the live renditions sound just as good as the recordings.

 📷 All of the fantastic photos in this post are credited to Elliot McRae. 📷
Go on and give him a follow – @EMcraePhoto

 Setlist

Biggest Fan
Alive
Sweet Dreamer
Treat Me Like A Lover*
Plastic*
Habit
Take Me Dancing
If You Want To Make Money*
Fish*
Daisy Chains
Beach

Encore
Message
Girls Like Me*

*These songs can be viewed in the YouTube playlist, below.

Finally, I want to say a MASSIVE thanks to Isobel Williams from Whiteboard PR for setting up this review and to Will Joseph Cook and Indigo Husk for putting on a great evening.

Matt – Muzik Speaks
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#WildCardWednesday: North Downs – ‘Plastic Clouds’

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North Downs are a band that were born in a run down barn in the wintery English countryside. They are the lovechild of a Delta-Blues man and a London raver who have worked hard to marry the sounds of the organic and the synthetic. Their sound truly is genre-bending, fixating you on the journey their songs take you on.

‘Plastic Clouds’ has a certain sense of urgency and freshness to it that reflects their writing and recording process; the band gave themselves only one day to write, produce and mix it, meaning that clarity and swift decision-making was required and that’s evident in their debut single. It’s powerful, it’s fresh and it’s all-consuming. An all-round fantastic song and I can’t wait to hear more from them!

What are your thoughts of this up-and-coming band? Have you heard of them before? Got anything similar for us to hear? Please leave your thoughts or own #WildCardWednesday track in a comment or chat to us about it via our social media and please share this post.

Matt – Muzik Speaks
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‘Plastic Clouds’ can be downloaded off iTunes now – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/plastic-clouds-single/id1206939781

#MellowMonday: The Japanese House – ‘Face Like Thunder’

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It goes without saying that we adore The Japanese House, and her latest single ‘Face Like Thunder’ (taken from her recently released EP – Swim Against The Tide) is pure perfection!

What I love about her, is her blend of indie credibility with edgy pop and a hint of retro too and this song showcases her talent brilliantly. Having released 3 EPs, we’re just excited about a full-length album!

Check out the video for the track too – it’s very artistic, as usual. That’s another thing I love about her style, she blends music and imagery brilliantly.

Matt – Muzik Speaks
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‘Face Like Thunder’ can be downloaded off iTunes now – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/face-like-thunder/id1155487882?i=1155488015

#WildCardWednesday: Kate Nash – ‘Good Summer’

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Having taken some time out of the limelight to work on writing songs for others (such as Rita Ora‘s ‘Poison’), Kate Nash is back with some new material!

Since her debut in 2007, the songstress has experimented with her sound from the more indie side of pop to the more punky, edgy sounds of the genre. However this song is much more straight-up pop, with its use of subtle synths and beautiful melodies.

It’s definitely captured our attention and I can’t wait to hear her future releases! I gather she is set to release music more frequently throughout the coming year…will this be a string of singles or a lead-up to a new full-length album? I guess only time will tell, but whatever it turns out to be, we’re excited for her return!

Are you a Kate Nash fan? Do you like this new sound? Have you got a favourite song of hers? Please leave your thoughts or own choice for #WildCardWednesday in a comment below or tell us via social media, using the hash tag and our twitter handle.

We’re half way through the week! Huzzah!

Matt – Muzik Speaks
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‘Good Summer’ can be downloaded off iTunes now – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/good-summer/id1139097124?i=1139097148

#Two4Tunesday: M.O – ‘Who Do You Think Of?’ & SHELLS – ‘Jagwar’

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M.O – ‘Who Do You Think Of?’

M.O are a UK-based trio of girls with a very current sound. The group’s latest single, ‘Who Do You Think Of?’ is packed to the brim with dance-pop beats and tropical house vibes. The steel-drum sounds, military-like drum rolls and high-pitched vocals give it everything you could ever want in a summer song.

If the trio didn’t already have a big fanbase, this track is surely going to boost it further.

‘Who Do You Think Of’ is on iTunes for downloading now! – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/who-do-you-think-of/id1111432412?i=1111432500

SHELLS – ‘Jagwar’

SHELLS has just returned TODAY with her second single, ‘Jagwar’. The song boasts the same serene beauty that she showed off on her debut track, ‘Gold’. ‘Jagwar’ is all about letting go of something you love, and being stronger for it. Her voice is stunning and the lyrics are captivating – it’s just a brilliant tune!
You can also catch her at her first headline show at The Forge (London) on September 14 – tickets are available here.

‘Jagwar’ can also be downloaded from iTunes now! – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/jagwar/id1135868139?i=1135868334

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#WildCardWednesday: Broods – ‘Couldn’t Believe’

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Broods are a musical duo from New Zealand, consisting of siblings Georgia Nott and Caleb Nott. This track, ‘Couldn’t Believe’, is taken from their second album, Conscious.

To date, the pair have supported the likes of Ellie Goulding, Haim and Sam Smith.

The style of the song is a blend of electronica, pop and indie with hints of industrial sounds – it’s a great song and an excellent #WildCardWednesday choice, as it’s an album track, but a damn good one!

What do you think of the song? Are you already aware of Broods? What song would you choose for #WildCardWednesday? Leave your choice in a comment below or talk to us via our social media.

Matt – Muzik Speaks
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‘Couldn’t Believe’ can be downloaded off iTunes now – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/couldnt-believe/id1112066486?i=1112066566

#FeelGoodFriday: Shura – ‘What’s It Gonna Be?’

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Shura has been featured by us a couple of times before, with her songs, ‘2Shy‘ and ‘Touch‘. This time she’s back with a fun, pop-fuelled, feel-good anthem called ‘What’s It Gonna Be?’

Her latest release is gearing up to the release of her debut album, Nothing’s Real, in July. It’s an incredibly ’80s sounding dance-pop record, which showcases her songwriting talents beautifully.

I defy anyone not to love this track; please make sure you share the link and spread the Shura love!

What do you think of Shura? Are you as excited about her debut album release as we are? What songs would you recommend us for #FeelGoodFriday? Leave us a comment below or talk to use via our social media accounts.

Matt – Muzik Speaks
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‘What’s It Gonna Be?’ can be downloaded off iTunes now – https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/whats-it-gonna-be/id1091921046?i=1091921533