Various

Botpop Vol. 1
Happy Robot Records

If you like unashamedly poppy, clean, upbeat electonica then you’ll probably be in heaven with this compilation from Happy Robot Records. more… “Various”

Pelle Carlberg

The Lilac Time
Labrador

This charming collection of songs from Stockholm-based troubadour Pelle Carlberg is an unexpected treat. While Swedish exports like Ace of Base, The Cardigans, The Hives and, er, death metal overlords Entombed have become familiar on these shores, it’s probably safe to say that Pelle Carlberg is pretty much unknown. However, if musical merit counts for anything then he shouldn’t remain obscure for much longer. more… “Pelle Carlberg”

The Alps

Something I Might Regret
Slicethepie

Although ‘Something I Might Regret’ is chock-full of melodies, The Alps don’t display much imagination. Songs such as ‘Not So Laughable Now’ are pleasant enough, but just wash over you without leaving much of an impression. more… “The Alps”

Various Brainwash Artists

The First Brainwash Compilation
Children No More

This compilation from Leeds-based music promotion Brainwash (released on their sister label Children No More Records) is a mixed bag. You’ve got your metal, indie, rock, folk and electronica and apparently the majority of artists featured are from Leeds, making this compilation a fine showcase for the richness of musical talent in the city. more… “Various Brainwash Artists”

The Fountain

Basement EP
Filthy Little Angels

From the offset there’s no doubt The Fountain are very much a ‘DIY’ band; you can tell by the way their CD is adorned by a sticker with a handwritten tracklisting and the fact they cite The Fall and Guided by Voices as influences. But are their DIY charms seductive? Well yes, yes they are. more… “The Fountain”

Five O’Clock Heroes

Speak Your Language
Glaze

The Five O’Clock Heroes are no stranger to a good groove, that’s for sure. The band’s second album is a jaunty, upbeat collection of indie pop songs designed to get the kids jiving on the dancefloor. Whether it actually succeeds in this aim is questionable, but the album certainly makes for some nice, un-demanding background music. more… “Five O’Clock Heroes”

The Go Team

Milk Crisis
Memphis Industries

Ever since they exploded onto the scene with their debut ‘Thunder Lightening Strike’ The Go Team has been a force to be reckoned with. It’s all the brainchild of Ian Parton, who aims to blend cheerleader chants, action theme songs, early hip hop and seventies pop into a satisfying whole. more… “The Go Team”