Koroshi Bros

Love The World

Koroshi Bros are what many people would probably define as the sound of 2008. So why do all these new electro acts sound like they are from the 80s? That aside, despite the really annoying vocals, Love The World is quite catchy and the “buy one get one free” bridge is hard not to like. This one will either be a real grower or become the most annoying song of the year. Time will tell.

The Hold Steady

Stay Positive

“I’ve got a feeling we could do something bigger.” So sings The Hold Steady frontman Craig Finn on the opener of his band’s fourth album. It’s a statement that fits with the overall theme of the album. And rightly so, as The Hold Steady have plenty to be optimistic about having found international success in their late 30s with their blue-collar, barroom rock meets gruff, melodic punk. Or as many have correctly noted; like Bruce Springsteen meets Husker Du. more… “The Hold Steady”

Mark Morriss

Memory Muscle

The Bluetones are one of the UK’s greatest pop groups, consistently delivering three minute gems. Yet due to the lack of credibility that the Britpop era in which they were first heard now holds, any interest in them this decade has been reduced to a loyal, all-knowing fanbase who are aware of their genius. more… “Mark Morriss”

The Parlotones

Louder Than Bombs

“Louder than bombs?” I scoffed before hitting play. “Surely not”. And I was right. Nonetheless, The Parlotones are not only very loud; they are melodic and energetic too. Like Placebo and JJ72 in their early days. In other words, they rock.

Simon Nixon

A Space To Breathe

Space To Breathe is the kind of record suited to quiet nights with a cup of tea, Admittedly, it’s the kind of music you’ll hear playing from the listening post of the new-age kind of shops you go to buy joss sticks from and certainly something you need to be in a relaxed mood for. more… “Simon Nixon”

Sarabeth Tucek

Sarabeth Tucek

Having worked with the likes of Smog and the Brian Jonestown Massacre, Sarabeth Tucek is clearly the kind of artist to be regarded as cool. Any fears that this could be a record that favours style over substance will be relieved to know that this is a record that successfully showcases Tucek as not only her woman, but a great songwriter too. more… “Sarabeth Tucek”

Minus

The Great Northern Whalekill

There is nothing great about killing whales, but you’ll be pleased to know that Minus agree as well. more… “Minus”

Arch Stanton

Breaking The Curse

Arch Stanton don’t have the kind of cool sound that popular music publications like to hype and so while many of the punk/ emo bands have conformed to what is popular by turning metal, the members of Arch Stanton have continued to do what they did in their former bands; Southpaw and Dragline by playing the kind of music they like rather than what other people like. more… “Arch Stanton”

The Favours

One Up On You

Hull may constantly top the worst cities in Britain lists every year but not only do they now have a top-flight football team for the first time ever but there is a smashing music scene there too. more… “The Favours”