Music Gigs 'n' Festivals

The Drums Music Review

2012-03-08T21:32:00.001-08:00

One of my fiends offered me a spare ticket which she had to The Drums in NYC- of course I couldn't say no; so I would just like to say a huge thank you for giving me a ticket to their sold out show.

The Drums support was Mathew Dear and all I will say is: Dreadful!!

Despite the awful support act, The Drums were able to save the night with their great performance. The Drums are a four piece indie rock band from Brooklyn, NY. In June 2010, The Drums released their debut album "The Drums" which includes the songs Lets go Surfing, Forever and Ever Amen, Down By The Water, and Best Friend. Their long awaited second album is due to be released in June of this year.

I had never been to last nights venue (the Knitting Factory) but I really liked it. I enjoy intimate gigs, although the venue was a bit of a mission to get to, it was a great place to see the band up close. The main room is small, with a bar on one side and a merchandise table on the other side. What I like most about small venues is the small amount of hustle and bustle you have to go through to get a good view of the stage.

Surprisingly last nights crowd was very diverse, there were young children, older people, rockers, businessmen, people on their own, couples and families. Despite the various ages and styles of the crowd, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves and danced and sang along to the music.

To say The Drums are enthusiastic/energetic performers would be an understatement. The lead singer, Johnathon Pierce certainly gets taken over by the music as he waves his arms and dances flamboyantly around the stage. The Drums look every inch a true indie band with their vintage sweaters and shirts, denim jackets and skinny jeans, so combine this with their great song and you have the perfect mix for a great show.

Tour dates:
22nd April. Webster Hall - NYC
3rd June. Dot To Dot Festival 2012 - Nottingham, UK
8-10th June. Rockness 2012 - Inverness, UK

For more information about tickets and other tour dates visit: http://www.songkick.com/artists/162568-drums/calendar

Lead singer, Johnathon Pierce

The Drums live @Knitting Factory

The Wombats

2012-03-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

This indie rock band from Liverpool, UK are definitely worth checking out!

The Wombats first hit the music scene back in 2003 and have to date released two albums, "A Guide to Love, Loss & Desperation" and "The Modern Glitch." Popular songs by this band include 'Kill The Director,' 'Let's Dance to Joy Division,' 'Tokyo' and '1996.'

I was fortunate enough to see this band live a few years ago in Birmingham, and was certainly not left disappointed. This hugely energetic band will have you jumping up and down and singing along to all their songs. I would give their gig an 8 out of 10 since The Wombats are great performers who leave the crowd gagging to hear more! In addition to this I can honestly say I have never been to a gig where there has been a giant inflatable owl in the corner of the stage (still to this day I am quite unsure why there was one there!?). Their gigs have proven to be very popular so far, so I suggest buying tickets quite soon if you are interested.

Tour dates:
24th March. Scala - London
26th April. Webster Hall - NYC
8th July. Delamere Forest - Northwich
3th - 5th Aug. Mouldridge Lane, Pikehall - Matlock

For more information check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/470480-wombats/calendar?page=2
For information regarding their N.American tour check out: http://www.crowdsurge.com/thewombatsustour/

Bon Iver

2012-03-05T19:04:00.001-08:00

Although I have already posted about Bon Iver (April 29th) he has just come out with some more tour dates which I feel have to be mentioned.

Their recent self titled album "Bon Iver" has been a massive hit, with over 100,000 copies selling in its first week in the US alone.

I really cant stress enough how insanely talented this band is. Justin Vernon can create such emotion from his vocal performance that you will be left in absolute awe.

This band does not just have good vocals though, they have great songs (proven by their two successful albums) and give great performances (proven by their exceptional reviews from fans and the media). Go on, buy a ticket - it will be worth it!

Tour dates:
12-15th July. Latitude festival - Southwold, UK

For more information regarding Bon Iver Australian and European tour check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/590705-bon-iver/calendar?page=1

Chase & Status

2012-03-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

Generally people's feelings for techno is you either love it or hate it, and nothing in between. I personally love techno for the sole reason, it allows everyone to dance however the hell they want without caring what others around them are doing. Seriously, if you are ever in a rave and look around, then you will see how everyone is completely lost in the music and in their own "zone." I love that!

So, if techno is your thing then you should definitely check out Chase and Status. This band is made up of two guys from London, who together have had three number one singles. If you have never heard of them but like bands such as, Sub Focus, Katy B and Magnetic Man, than this is a band for you.

In 2009, Chase and Status decided to collaborate with more artists in an attempt to go more mainstream and expand their already growing fan base. Since this decision, Chase and Status have collaborated with Kano, Plan B and are even set to release a single with Dizzee Rascal called "Heavy." With two albums behind them ("More Than Alot" and "No More Idols") Chase and Status have recently announced they will be releasing a third album later this year.

So if techno is your calling, then I urge you to go and see this band, as you wont be left disappointed.

Tour dates:
8th June. Download 2012 - Derby
15th June. Beach Break Live - Pembrey
8th July. T in the Park 2012 - Kinross
25th Aug. South West Four Weekender - London.

For more info regarding tickets check out: http://www.ents24.com/web/artist/89717/Chase_%26_Status_Live.html

The Temper Trap

2012-02-26T12:02:00.000-08:00

This indie rock band from Australia are pretty awesome!

The Temper Trap's most popular single "Sweet Disposition," has been used on a number of commercials and ads since its release in 2008. The band also released their debut album "Conditions" back in 2008, but have just announced that they will be releasing their second album later this year.

They have received a lot of mixed reviews for their live performances. Although they have good vocals and some great tunes, the band seems to be missing something and have repeatedly scored low for audience interaction. Despite this however, The Temper Trap are slowly growing quite the fan base and so if you want to by tickets I would urge you to do so soon as their gigs often sell out.

Tour dates
28th March. Bowery Ballroom - NYC
29th March. Music Hall Of Williamsburg - Brooklyn, NYC
30th March. Music Hall of Williamsburg - Brooklyn, NYC

For tickets and tour dates check out: http://www.tourtracker.com/artist/the-temper-trap/510268/

Florence and the Machine

2012-02-22T10:42:00.001-08:00

If you have not heard of Florence and the Machine, then where have you been?

Florence and the Machine are an indie pop band from the UK. They first hit the music scene in 2006 and have since gone from strength to strength. The band debut album "Lungs" which includes the songs "Dog days are over" and "You've got the love," reached number one in the UK and was one of the best selling albums of 2009 and 2010. Their latest album "Ceremonials" was released in October of this year and reached number one in the UK and Irish charts and reached the top 10 in the US. Songs to definitely check out from this album include "What the Water Gave Me," "Shake It Out" and "Never Let Me Go."

I am a huge fan of this band and have been lucky enough to see them live twice. Both times I was not left disappointed and would definitely look to see them live again. I would easily give their gigs 10 out of 10, since Florence Welch has an amazing voice, great stage presence and a brilliant ability to work the whole crowd. I will warn you though, Welch does constantly jump up and down on the spot during her songs - something that many people can get irritated about. If however you can get past the jumping this gig is definitely a must see!

Tour dates:
Feb 29th. O2 Academy - Brixton, UK
March 4th. The BIC- Bournemouth, UK
March 5th. Motorpoint Arena - Cardiff, UK
March 6th. Capital FM Arena - Nottingham,UK
March 8th. Alexandra Palace - London, UK
March 9th. Alexandra Palace - London, UK
March 12th. SECC - Glasgow, UK
March 13th. LG Arena - Birmingham,UK
March 15th. MEN Arena - Manchester, UK
March 16th. Metro Radio Arena - Newcastle, UK
May 8th. Radio City Music Hall - NYC

For information regarding tour dates and tickets, check out: Florence and the Machine tickets and http://www.ticketmaster.com/Florence-and-the-Machine-tickets/artist/136233

Ghostpoet

2012-02-19T15:18:00.000-08:00

I first heard his song "Cash and Carry Me Home" and was intrigued to hear more.

Obaro Ejimiwe, commonly known as Ghostpoet is a singer and producer from the UK. Although Ghostpoet is relatively new to the music scene you should check him out. He has caught the attention of many already including Mike Skinner of "The streets" (a popular British rapper) http://www.myspace.com/thestreets.

In 2012 Ghostpoet was featured in The Guardian's "New Band Of The Day" and was described as "Dizzee on mogadon, or a half asleep Streets." Since then Ghostpoet has been on tour with Metronomy and Jamie Woon and was nominated for the 2011 Mercury Prize.

For their live performances, Ghostpoet has received some terrific reviews. Confident, self assured and great live, this singer is someone you should go and see. After listening to his debut album "Peanut Butter Blues & Malancholy Jam" I found Ejimiwe reminded me a lot of Maxi Jazz from faithless.

Tour dates:
19th Feb. Mojo - Liverpool, UK
20th Feb. Rubix - Guildford, UK
21st Feb. Rescue Rooms - Nottingham, UK
23rd Feb. Dq - Sheffield, UK
24th Feb. SWG3 - Glasgow, UK
25th Feb. Lancaster Library - Lancaster, UK
27th Feb. The Cluny - Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
28th Feb. Central Station - Wrexham, UK
29th March. Coalition - Brighton, UK

For more details regarding his European Tour and tickets check out: http://www.songkick.com

Ben Howard

2012-02-19T11:37:00.000-08:00

If you like artists benjamin francis leftwich or Ed Sheeran than Ben Howard is someone you should definitely check out.

Ben Howard is a folk singer from Devon, UK who recently released his debut album "Every Kingdom." This album has many great tracks on it including The Wolves, The Fear, and Keep Your Head Up.

Being from Devon and a keen surfer himself, Ben Howard has certainly built himself a large and devoted fan base (especially within the circle of UK surfers). His gigs have received many great reviews, and as someone labeled as "one to watch next year," it would definitely be worthwhile to check him out. Ben Howard has great stage presence which combined with his ability to sing acoustically on his guitar, makes it the perfect choice for a chilled out evening listening to live music.

Tour dates:

14th Feb. Portsmouth Pyramids - Portsmouth, UK

17th Feb. HMV Ritz - Manchester, UK

18th Feb. Queens Hall Edinburgh - Edinburgh

19th Feb. 02 ABC - Glasgow

23rd Feb. O2 Sheperds Bush Empire - London

24th Feb. O2 Sheperds Bush Empire - London

25th Feb. O2 Academy - Oxford

29th Feb. 02 Academy - Bristol

29th March. Mercury Lounge - NYC

30th March. Bearsville Theater - NY

2nd April. The Bowery Ballroom - NYC

2nd Nov. Brighton Dome - Brighton, UK

3rd Nov. Plymouth Pavilions - Plymouth, UK

4th Nov. Cardiff University Students' Union - Cardiff, UK

5th Nov. Colston Hall - Bristol, UK

9th Nov. Mandella Hall - Belfast, UK

10th Nov. 02 Academy - Glasgow, UK

12th Nov. Manchester Apollo - Manchester, UK

14th Nov. 02 Academy Leeds - Leeds, UK

16th Nov. 02 Academy Newcastle - Newcastle UK

17th Nov. Music Hall - Aberdeen, UK

19th Nov. Corn Exhange Cambridge, UK

20th Nov. Engine Shed - Lincoln, UK

21st Nov. O2 Academy Leicester - Leicester, UK

22nd Nov. Rock City - Nottingham, UK

24th Nov. 02 Academy - Birmingham, UK

For information regarding tickets check out: http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/Ben-Howard-tickets/artist/1475431

Ryan Adams

2012-02-15T19:57:00.000-08:00

Ryan Adams is one of my all time favorite artists.

Ryan Adams, a country rock singer from North Carolina first hit the music scene in 1991. In 2009 Adams left the cardinals and announced he was taking a break from music. However in 2010 Adams returned with his thirteenth album "Ashes & Fire." His previous albums include "Hheartbreaker," "Gold," "Demolition," "Rock n Roll," "Love Is Hell," "Cold Roses," "Jacksonville City Nights," "29," "Easy Tiger," "Cardinology," "Onion," and "111/1V."

Songs that I would definitely suggest checking out are Cry on Demand, How Do You Keep Love Alive, Oh My Sweet Carolina and the superb cover of Wonderwall.

When seeing Ryan Adams live expect both sell out crowds and odd requests like 'no cell phones' or 'bars closed by 9pm.' Despite these odd requests there is no question about it, this is MUST see gig. A charismatic individual with a great deal of talent, Adams will astound you with performances of all hits popular hits from over the years.

Tour dates:
20th April. Waterfront Hall - Belfast, UK
22nd April. The Sage Hall 1 - Gateshead, UK
23rd April. London Palladium - London, UK
26th April. Nottingham Royal Centre - Nottingham, UK
27th April. Sheffield City Hall - Sheffield, UK
30th April. London Palladium - London, UK

For more information about tickets and his European tour check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/332590-ryan-adams/calendar?page=1

Bombay Bicycle Club

2012-02-15T18:58:00.000-08:00

This is a great band.

A popular alternative rock band from the UK, Bombay Bicycle Club are someone you should definitely check out.

Since winning Channel 4's "Road to V" competition in 2006, Bombay Bicycle Club has continued to find success and achieve great things. To date, they have three albums "I Had the Blues But I Shook Them Loose" (2009), "Flaws" (2010) and the recently released third album "A Different Kind Of Fix."

Some songs to check out by this band are "Ivy & Gold," "Sixteen" and "Dust on the Ground." This is definitely a gig not to miss! For a complete review of their gig check out Bombay Bicycle Club

Tour dates:
Sun 15th April. Cambridge Corn Exchange - Cambridge, UK
Mon 16th April. Brighton Centre - Brighton, UK
Tue 17th April. Civic Hall - Wolverhampton, UK
Thu 19th April. York Barbican - York, UK
Fri 20th April. Corn Exchange - Edinburgh
Sat 21st April. Liverpool University Guild of Students - Liverpool, UK
Mon 23rd April. Plymouth Pavilions - Plymouth, UK
Tues 24th April. Portsmouth Guildhall - Portsmouth, UK
Wed 25th April. De Montfort Hall - Leicester, UK
Fri 27th April. Empress Ballroom - Blackpool, UK
Sat 28th April. Alexandra Palace - London, UK

For information regarding tickets check out: Bombay Bicycle Club tickets

Other Lives

2012-02-13T20:49:00.000-08:00

I am a HUGE fan of this American indie rock band from Oklahoma. This band, who originally went by the name Kunek, has to date released two albums, their debut self titled album "Other Lives" and "Tamer Animals."

It is clear from ticket prices that this band has yet to hit mainstream. Do not be put off by this however. Other Lives is very talented, and after the success of supporting Bon Iver on his tour, this five piece band has now started to get the attention that they so rightly deserve!

Songs to definitely check out by this band are"Black Tables," "Tamer Animals" and "Desert."

For this gig you should expect acoustic performances, very little interaction and a band that uses an assortment of different instruments. Although the music of the Other Lives is certainly not upbeat or even dance worthy it is both powerful and hypnotic, and will leave you feeling moved and transfixed.

If acts such as Bon Iver, The Rosebuds and Cat Power are your calling than this is a gig for you.

Tour dates:
17th Feb. The Bowery Ballroom -NYC
4th April. Village Underground - London, UK
5th April. Manchester Academy - Manchester, UK
9th/10th June. The Parklife Weekender 2012 - Manchester, UK

For details regarding tickets and the rest of their N.American and European tour check out: http://www.songkick.com

The Pierces

2012-02-12T08:53:00.000-08:00

The Pierces are a New York based band made up of two sisters, Catherine and Alison Pierce from Alabama.

This alternative folk band have struggled to grow over the years, with their three albums "The Pierces," "Light Of The Moon" and "Thirteen Tales of Love and Revenge" failing to grasp the attention of media and potential fans.

The girls have however recently had a number of their songs played in hit US shows Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars, Charmed and Dexter. This seems to have really helped the girls to get their music across to a wider audience.

If you like bands and artists Lenka, The Pretty Reckless, Alice Gold and Clare Maguire than this is a band you should check out.

Despite a lack of success in the US, these two sisters are proving pretty popular in the UK. Having recently signed with a UK music label, the girls have been hitting the festival scene and gaining some positive press.

Tour dates:
29th March. The Bowery Ballroom - NYC

For information regarding tickets check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/400791-pierces

Glastonbury Festival UK

2012-02-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

If I had to recommend one festival it would be Glastonbury. Glastonbury Music Festival is the largest open-air music and performing arts festival in the world, attracting around 150, 500 people of all ages and nationalities. Last year when I went I got to see many bands including Stevie Wonder, Gorillaz, Florence and the Machine, and my personal highlight Mumford & Sons.

I must add, having attended this festival last year, its not for the feint hearted. Although a lot of fun, it does require you to camp for 5 days and 4 nights, with each day being very long and very busy. The crowds are big; the lines are long, and the toilets smelly! In addition to this, due to it being held in England, you are always at the mercy of the weather - usually rain!

Do not be put off though, the line up every year is always superb, the atmosphere is electrifying, the people are friendly, and there is always plenty to do. In addition to seeing loads of bands, you can take your kids to the "kidzfield," watch movies and make crafts in "the Park", and dance all day and night in the "Dance Village." And if that is not enough, every night after the music finishes (usually around midnight) there are a number of different "Villages" you can visit. These cater to all tastes - whether you wish to dance to the early hours of the morning, or simply just wander around and explore with friends.

To register for tickets check out: https://glastonbury.seetickets.com/Registration/Register

Miike Snow

2012-02-08T21:06:00.000-08:00

I had been a fan of Miike Snow for quite some time, so when I heard I would be seeing them live I was pretty ecstatic.

Miike Snow are an indie pop band from Sweden. To date this band has one album out, the self titled "Miike Snow," however they recently announced they will be releasing their second album "Happy To You"on 26th March.

Although I have loved all the their music I was very unsure to how they would be live. This uncertainty soon passed however. By the end of their set at Glastonbury, my friends and I were all huge fans! Their set list included "Intro," "Burial," "Black and Blue," "Silvia," "The Rabbit," "Sans Soleil" and their most successful track to date "Animal."

The band started strong with a dramatic start - appearing on a smoked out stage wearing white masks and black outfits. Despite not interacting too much with the crowd, Miike Snow seemed to have the attention of the entire audience. They performed their songs great and by the time they ended with "Animal" everyone was dancing around and getting fully into it.

Despite being a relatively new band at the time I was shocked to how many people came to see them. It is due to this that I would urge you to buy tickets soon if you are interested.

Tour dates:
24th April. Terminal 5 -NYC
25th April. Terminal 5 -NYC
26th April. Terminal 5 -NYC

For more information regarding tickets and the rest of their N.American tour check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/2391223-miike-snow/calendar?page=1

Marina and the Diamonds

2012-02-07T19:41:00.000-08:00

This Welsh indie pop singer/ songwriter is certainly one to watch out for! Marina and the Diamonds was first noticed after coming second in the BBC Sound poll list in 2010. Her stage name, Marina and the Diamonds, comes from the lead singers full name, Marina Diamandis, and the Greek translation of her last name. When asked, Marina replies, "I'm Marina. You are the diamonds."

In 2010, Marina and the Diamonds released her debut album "The Family Jewels" which went to number five in the UK album charts. Marina and the Diamonds is due to release her second album "Electra Heart" in spring 2012 and will include the songs "Radioactive" and "Jealousy."

Despite Marina's deep vocals, it seems her unique fashion sense gets her more noticed. When asked, Marina describes her style to be a mix of "vintage, cheerleader and cartoon."

Since hitting the music scene, Marina has been touring around and promoting her album. She has had many successful performances including the Isle of Wight Festival, Glastonbury Festival and Leeds Festival. After the success of their "Family Jewels Tour," Marina and the Diamonds are certainly a band you should check out.

Tour Dates
24h Feb. The Junction - Cambridge, UK
25th Feb. St George's Church - Brighton, UK
26th Feb. O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire - London, UK
4/6th May. Live at Leeds - Leeds, UK

For more information regarding tickets and tour dates check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/709564-marina-and-the-diamonds/calendar

The Low Anthem Music Gig

2012-02-04T18:22:00.000-08:00

This seemingly unknown American indie folk band is definitely worth checking out if you listen to bands such as 'Iron and Wine,' and 'The tallest man on earth.'

The thing I particularly like about The Low Anthem is they have no intention playing any of their songs in the same way night after night. Since each of the band members play an array of different instruments, The Low Anthem are successful in achieving this goal and as a result continually perform great gigs.

Something that should also get a mention is the bands willingness to deliver a great show to their fans. For their gig in Boston on 10/21/11 The Low Anthem took their gig outside as they had not finished their set list by the time the venue had to close for the night. Its not often you hear bands willing to do this, so with this in mind I urge you to give this band a go and see them live.

Songs I recommend checking out are "Charlie Darwin," "To Ohio" and "The Horizon is a Beltway."

Tour dates:
13th Feb. Asbury Hall - Buffalo, NY
8th-10th June. No Direction Home Festival 2012 - Mansfield, UK

For more information about their N.American tour or to buy tickets visit: http://www.songkick.com/artists/934168-low-anthem/calendar?page=2

Zola Jesus

2012-02-03T17:57:00.000-08:00

This Gothic rock singer is definitely worth checking out.

I will say however, this gig should be avoided if you dislike deep and meaningful songs, aka what many refer to as depressing music! I'm personally a huge fan of 'meaningful' music and so when I came across Zola Jesus I was certainly not deterred. I will add though that Zola Jesus is quite out there/ quirky!

Many have labeled Zola Jesus' music as Gothic, however when asked she explains her goal is to create something new and avoid the limitation of getting 'labeled.' There is no doubt however that Nika Roza Danilova (the singer of Zola Jesus) has incorporated a certain degree of darkness and horror into her songs.

When she was younger, Nika trained in Opera singing, which certainly comes across strongly in her songs through her very distinct, powerful and even haunting voice. Don't be put off however, this is by no means a bad thing. The use of her strong vocals make her songs become even more passionate and powerful to the listener.

Zola Jesus gigs leave you with the feeling of mystery which I feel perfectly reflects the tone of her songs. Also with her years of opera training it is clear to see why Zola Jesus has such a great voice when singing live.

Tour dates:
18th Feb. Webster Hall - NYC

For further details regarding Zola Jesus' US tour dates check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/2373357-zola-jesus/calendar

The Fray

2012-02-02T11:11:00.000-08:00

I have been fortunate to see this indie rock band from Colorado, US twice.

The Fray became a success back in 2005 when their debut album "How to Save a Life" became platinum in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. Singles that helped to build the bands initial success were "Over My Head," "How To Save a Life," and "You Found Me."

Since the release of their debut album, the Fray have released the self titled album "The Fray" in 2009 and are due to release their third album "Scars & Stories" on February 7th, 2012.

I would definitely recommend seeing this band live. When I saw this band live I was surprised with how good Isaac Slade was as lead singer. His distinct raspy voice was just as good live as it is on cd. Although I was impressed with The Frays performance, I will say that something seemed to be missing - it all just seemed far to safe. Yes they have great songs, but in terms of excitement this gig would score low. Don't be put off though, if you are looking for a quiet, chilled night out listening to live music than this would be just the gig for you.

Tour Dates:
12th April. Radio City Music Hall - NYC

For information regarding tickets and their N. American tour dates check out: http://www.ticketmaster.com/The-Fray-tickets/artist/1004082#artist_table_focus

RadioHead

2012-01-30T19:37:00.000-08:00

This English rock band have been around for a while. Forming together in 1985, Radiohead have proven to be an extremely successful band, with Rolling Stone ranking them at number 73 in their "Greatest Artists of All Time" list in 2005.

Radiohead have released a number of albums: Pablo Honey, The Bends, OK Computer, Kid A, Amnesiac, Hail to the Thief, In Rainbows and The King of Limbs. Although both Pablo Honey and The Bends were great albums, it was the release of OK Computer that made Radiohead become an international success.

There is no question this band is amazing live. Negative reviews are a rarity - great sounds and great energy, this band will always deliver an exceptional performance to their sell out crowds.

Tickets WILL sell out quick, so MOVE fast if you want to get your hands on some.

Tour dates:
28th September. Roseland Ballroom - NYC
29th September. Roseland Ballroom - NYC

For ticket details and other information regarding their N. America tour check out: http://radiohead.com/tourdates/

Feist

2012-01-29T13:16:00.000-08:00

Leslie Feist, otherwise known as the Canadian singer/songwriter Feist is someone you should definitely check out.

Similar artists to Feist include Lykke Li, Cat Power and The Broken Social Scene.

This indie/folk singer has released a number of great singles such as "How Come You Never Go There," "I feel it all," and "1,2,3,4." In addition to her singles, Feist has released four great albums, "Monarch," "Let It Die," "The Reminder" and the most recent "Metals."

With her distinct voice and folk melodies, Feist has certainly attracted a huge fan base, and it comes as no surprise that her gigs her often sold out.

Tour Dates:
25th March. Royal Albert Hall - London, UK
26th March. Manchester Apollo - Manchester, UK
27th March. Royal Concert Hall - Glasgow, UK

For more information regarding tickets and N.America tour dates check out: http://www.tourtracker.com/artist/feist/2178234/

Ed Sheeran Music Gigs

2012-01-29T12:56:00.000-08:00

This is a pretty interesting guy...and talented too!

Ed Sheeran is a singer/songwriter from West Yorkshire. In 2009 Ed Sheeran played 312 gigs and had to resort to 'sofa surfing' due to having no money. However, Sheeran got his big break in February 2010 when he got noticed by rapper Example, who invited him to tour with him.

Things just kept getting better for Sheeran when in 2010 his already growing fan base rocketed in response to his self posted YouTube videos. Not only did his videos gain him attention, but the likes of Elton John, Rio Ferdinand and the Independant newspaper were all eager to sing his praises, putting Ed Sheeran firmly on the radar for someone to watch out for.

Ed Sheeran performed 5 times at this years Glastonbury and received great reviews. There is no question about it, this boy is on the road to stardom..and you should get tickets NOW!!!

His debut single "A team" reached number 3 in the UK charts after its first week of release and his debut album "+" which was released on 19th September 2011 topped the UK charts for a number of weeks.

Tour dates
30th Jan. Mercury Lounge - NYC
31st Jan. Mercury Lounge - NYC
21st Feb. The 02 Arena - London, UK
12th Feb. Terminal 5 - NYC
14th Feb. Terminal 5 - NYC
8th. 10th June. Rockness 2012 - Inverness, UK
12th July. High Lodge - Suffolk, UK
13th Oct. HMV Hammersmith Apollo - London, UK
14th Octt. HMV Hammersmith Apollo - London, UK
15th Oct. HMV Hammersmith Apollo - London, UK
16th Oct. HMV Hammersmith Apollo - London, UK
17th Oct. HMV Hammersmith Apollo - London, UK
19th Oct. Brighton Center - Brighton, UK
20th Oct. Newport Centre - Newport, UK
21st Oct. BIC - Windsor Hall - Bournemouth, UK
22nd Oct. Pavilion - Plymouth, UK
24th Oct. Oasis Leisure Centre- Swindon, UK
26th Oct. Rivermead - Reading, UK
28th Oct. The Ballroom - Birmingham, UK
29th Oct. The Ballroom - Birmingham, UK
31st Oct. Capital FM Arena - Nottingham, UK

To buy tickets or for more information regarding the rest of his European and UK tour check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/2083334-ed-sheeran/calendar?page=1

The Naked And Famous

2012-01-22T10:02:00.000-08:00

If you have not done so already, you should definitely check out this band.

The Naked And Famous are an indie rock band from New Zealand, and are similar to bands The Joy Formidable, Foster The People and Passion Pit. So far The Naked And Famous have only released one album 'Passive Me, Aggressive You," which includes the hit singles "Young Blood" and "Punching In A Dream."

Reviews for this band have so far been great. The lead singer Alisa Xayalith proves herself with exuberant and energetic performances, which when combined with her strong vocals makes it clear how this band can continually deliver a great show. This band have the ability to work the entire room so that by the end of their shows the crowds are either singing, dancing, clapping and/or cheering.

Although The Naked And Famous has only really achieved success in NZ, this is surely soon to change as they release more material and tour around the world more. I would therefore urge you all to give this band a go and go and see them live.

Tour Dates
4th April. Terminal 5 -NYC

For information regarding tickets and dates for the rest of their N.America tour check out: http://www.tourtracker.com/artist/the-naked-and-famous/848193/

Tom Petty

2012-01-20T12:12:00.000-08:00

This is one of my all time favortie artists.

Tom Petty is an American singer/songwriter from Florida who has to date sold over 60 million albums around the world. Tom Petty first hit the music scene in 1976 with the band Mudcrutch, however due to their lack of success Tom Petty chose to pursue a solo career. Some of Tom Petty's most popular songs as a solo artist include "Refugee," "Free Fallin" and "I Won't Back Down."

Over the years Tom Petty has played in a number of bands (Traveling Wilburys and Mudcrutch) and collaborated with a number of great musicians. It is clear to see that Tom Petty has received most of his success from singing solely and with the Heartbreakers.Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers have to date released 12 albums, the most recent being "Mojos.'' Popular tracks by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers include "The Trip To Pirate's Cove," "Mary Jane's Last Dance" and my personal favorite "It'll All Work Out."

This music veteran is definitely one to watch. It comes as no surprise that Tom Petty can and will put on a great show. Over the years, Tom Petty has not only performed with the likes of Roy Orbison and Bob Dylan, but he has also played on some of the worlds biggest stages. I will warn you though, don't hang about if want to get tickets - Tom Petty's rock shows sell out of tickets fast.

Tour Dates
18th June. Royal Albert Hall - London, UK
20th June. Royal Albert Hall - London, UK

For information regarding tickets and N. America tour check out: http://www.tompetty.com/tour

Kasabian

2012-01-17T04:53:00.000-08:00

This is a great band.

Kasabian are an english rock band from Leicester. To date they have released four albums "Kasabian," "Empire" "West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum" and the recent "Velociraptor!"

Although Kasabian's recently released album Velociraptor! failed to make the Billboard Top 200 charts in the US it has proven to be very successful in the UK. This band has huge support all over the UK and have over the years won a number of awards including a Brit Award, a Mojo Award and several NME and Q awards.

This band oozes coolness and attitude, and you certainly wont be forgetting their live performance in a hurry. Kasabian are reported to have "mastered the live circuit"and no one can disagree when seeing these five rockers onstage. Their confidence, energy and complete control over the crowd combine to deliver one exceptional live performance.

For their NYE gig Serge and Tom made everyone in the crowd get on their knees when it came to performing their number 1 hit single "Fire." When the song reached the chorus "I'm on fire!" the effect was on of utter frenzy - every single person jumped up and went abolsuterly wild - singing, dancing and generally just having an absolute blast.

Tour dates:
22nd March. Terminal 5 - NYC

For information regarding their other tour dates (US, Europe & Australia) check out http://www.songkick.com

Gotye

2012-01-16T16:39:00.000-08:00

If you have not head the song "Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye than you seriously need to check it out NOW!

Gotye, otherwise known as Wouter De Backer, is originally from Belgian but grew up in Australia from the age of 2. He is both a singer and songwriter and to date has released three albums; "Boardface," "Llike Drawing Blood," and "Making Mirrors."

Although Gotye has achieved a great deal of success in Australia, he has yet to really make it mainstream in the US or UK. This will surely change very soon however when Gotye embarks on his 2012 tour around the world. As a live performer Gotye has received many rave reviews for his great voice and use of amazing visuals. I certainly will be looking to see Gotye live in the future, and I suggest you do too.

Tour dates:
6th Feb. The Bowery Ballroom - NYC
13th Feb. Wilton's Music Hall - London, UK
29th Feb. O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire - London, UK
2nd March. Ritz Manchester - Manchester, UK
4th March. Oran Mor - Glasgow, UK
17th March. Webster Hall - NYC

For information regarding tickets and the rest of his tour dates check out: http://www.songkick.com/artists/53929-gotye/calendar