Music Liberation

New Music : The Cast Of Cheers

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:25:00 +0000

With a slightly odd and potentially unfavourable name, The Cast Of Cheers make up for it somewhat with their brilliant debut single 'Family', which will be released through School Boy Error / Cooperative Music on February 20th. It's jaunty, mathy, and unquestionably fun, and the video is splendid too. We are very much looking forward to keeping an eye on these guys over the forthcoming months. You can catch them playing alongside Theme Park (who you might recall from making the top 5 of The Blog Sound of 2012) during February and March.

The Cast Of Cheers | Facebook | Twitter

Future Sounds of 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 20:54:00 +0000

Better late than never, here is this years 'Future Sounds' post, which contains a collection of artists we can't wait to hear new material from this year.

Hysterical Injury // Facebook / Twitter
Ever since we put forward Hysterical Injury for the Emerging Talent Stage for last year's Glastonbury, we've told anyone that will listen just how great they are. At the back end of last year that even included Tom Robinson, who played the band on his BBC 6Music show as we told him he had to (as did Tiffany from Drunken Werewolf). 2012 see's the band release their debut LP 'Dead Wolf Situation', and we can tell you now, its brilliant!

Gabrielle Aplin // Facebook / Twitter

We first discovered Bath's Gabrielle Aplin back in late 2010, and since then we've kept a keen eye on her development. Earlier this month she released her latest EP, 'Home', which is her strongest work to date, and has left us eagerly awaiting a future full length album hopefully later this year.

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Daughter // Facebook / Twitter

Having waxed lyrical about Daughter's 2nd EP at the end of last year (The Wild Youth), its fair to say we are more than a little bit interested to hear what Elena has in store for us in 2012. Not to mention checking her out again at one of her gigs, which last year were truly something special.

LightGuides // Facebook / Twitter

Having put out one of our favourite debut EP's of last year (Samba Samba Samba), and belonging to the Alcopop! Records stable, Glasgow's LightGuides are a band we're looking forward to learning more about as we chart their seemingly unstoppable progress during the coming year.

Lucy Rose // Facebook / Twitter

We picked up on her 'Middle Of The Bed' EP at the tail end of last year, and with new single 'Red Face' carrying on where she left off, Lucy Rose is certainly attracting our attention. Recording has begun on her debut album which we can't wait to hear when its drops later this year.

Pale Seas // Facebook

Last year a band called Netherlands put out a low key release of their track 'Sooner Or Later', which made Music Liberation's Top 5 Singles of 2011. Well that band are now called Pale Seas, and that track is set to receive alot more attention. We are hungry for more, much more!

Music Liberation's Writers takeover week : Moker

noreply@blogger.com (Moker) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 18:54:00 +0000

To round off the Music Liberation's Writers takeover week we have Moker...

"Well this is a little surprising. Looking back at the artists I’ve managed to review in 2011, the one thing that’s abundantly clear is that I’ve heavily favoured music with female vocals and shoegaze, layered guitars. This must be some kind of subconscious shift in my tastes as I’d never have normally ticked such boxes if I had to describe my favourite music. I’m pleasantly surprised. It’s a bit the reverse of when you go through your record collection and wonder why there’s so much awful metal in there. Or is that just me? (ED: Nope!)

Anyway, out of the all the reviews this year, my three favourite would have to be Sea Oleena’s beautiful new EP, the New York duo Acrylics single ‘Molly’s Vertigo’ and EMA’s fantastic debut album ‘Past Life and Martyred Saints’.

If I had to rank these three in order (and I do) it would go as such:

3) Acrylics - Molly's Vertigo : If only because it was a single review rather than a whole body of work. This dreamy 80s tinged pop song was truly fantastic. || Acrylics

2) EMA - Past Life Martyred Saints : Already in many critics’ top ten lists, this wide-ranging and off-kilter debut is a true masterpiece. I wrote that it sounds as if she was on the verge of a breakdown and letting every emotion flow out into the music and I stand by that verbose description; perhaps because it’s a gloriously verbose record in all the right ways. Every listen will bring something new. Also album opener ‘The Grey Ship’ is a worthy contender for Single of 2011. || EMA

1) Sea Oleena - Sleeplessness : There’s no escaping the beauty of Sea Oleena’s music. Both her most recent EP and her self-titled debut are an intoxicating mix of ghostly vocals and layered ambient noise. Intimate, emotive and leftfield, she’s been my favourite find of this year. || Sea Oleena

With regards to next year, there are a few artists on my radar who are worth keeping an eye out for. The first is angular metal band Alright the Captain. Their album was released all the way back in January and despite being a perfect slab of relentless jagged noise, it didn’t get the coverage it deserved.

The second recommendation would be a band from the North of England called Pengilly’s. An unusual name for an unusual band. Their honest, heartfelt and spacious approach to music is a little like a folk band remixed by James Blake. The future can only be bright for these trendsetters. (ED: The keen eyed amongst you will remember we featured Pengilly's on Music Liberation back in September with the video for 'Toby's Hill'.)

The final recommendation would be the well established and long running Belgium electro band Goose. Some might know of them but I’ve listed them here as they’ve always been at the peripheries of the funky house scene, dominated by French acts such as Daft Punk and Justice. They most recent album, released last year was superb and surely the high profile coverage they deserve should come to them off the back of their fantastic efforts.

Music Liberation's Writers takeover week : Clive Rozario

noreply@blogger.com (Clive Rozario) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:40:00 +0000

Here's Clive Rozario with his thoughts on 2011 and his tips for the forthcoming year.

"Do you know what I told myself on New Year's Day, 2011? I promised that after burning myself out in 2010 attending endless gigs, squandering (the majority of my) funds on an unnecessary eight festivals, clogging up my accommodation with Cd's that were only used once (to upload to my iPod), and destroying my Mac with an addiction to downloading new music, that I would take it a little easier - music-wise - in 2011. Do you know what I told myself on New Year's Day, 2012? I promised myself that since 2011's equally relentless musical year not only burnt me out, but actually gave me tinnitus, I WILL take it a little easier in 2012…

We had some huge records last year: Metronomy, Machine Head, SBTRKT, James Blake, Bon Iver, letlive., Jamie Woon, Radiohead, Mazes, Gil Scott Heron & Jamie XX, City and Colour, Mastodon, etc. However, some of the most enjoyable music I have encountered this year has been from the underground, in the form of independent albums or debut EPs and whatnot.

Here is my TOP 3 from the releases I've covered for Music Liberation in 2011:

1. Quick and The Dead - 'For The Rhythm' - This little, pop punk-tinged emo EP came armed with a surprisingly full production, and some massive, massive vocal hooks. The epic title track rivals anything Taking Back Sunday, Funeral For A Friend, Kids In Glass Houses etc. have done. (ED: Unfortunately QATD decided at the back end of last year to split up) || Quick And The Dead

2. Vetoes - 'Ritalin/Ritalout' - I'm still none-the-wiser about whether the term 'post-prog' has actually become a fully fledged genre, but the urgency of this progressive mash-up of math-rock and alternative indie has stayed with me all year. 'Sonic Turge' is a tune! || Vetoes

3. Shapes - 'Monotony Chic' - The debut album from this noisy post-hardcore mob may lacked real originality (sounding a fair bit like letlive., who sound more than a fait bit like Glassjaw), but they made up for it with punishing technicality and an impassioned vocal performance. Check out 'Vacancy Ape' - the album highlight. || Shapes

*A special mention must be made for We'll Go Machete's album 'Strong Drunk Hands', which only just missed out on the TOP 3.

Now for the Tips for 2012: new artists I think are going to have a great year.

1. Drive - This Hertfordshire quartet are shrouded in mystery. Having only formed last year, they released a dreamy little demo called 'No Feel' (after only having been together a month!), which was picked up by the blogosphere with all it's heart. I mean, this replication of shoegazing-tinted, noise-rock, alternative bands like My Bloody Valentine and Sonic Youth was addictive in its authenticity - the word 'nostalgic' didn't even come to mind. Little is known about the band (as they have pretty much no online presence), but i'm sure we'll be hearing more from them in 2012. || Drive

2. Blue Daisy - The London producer's recently released, debut album 'The Sunday Gift' has received critical acclaim, but it's one of those slow-burners - electronica fans are only just starting to really pick up on the moody dubstep-laced triphop, and it's 2012 that is going to see his name truly made. || Blue Daisy

3. Casitas - The quirky indie-party-pop band from Devon have been quiet since releasing their independent, self-titled debut, and winning a plethora of 'battle of the bands' comps. They are apparently in the process of (slowly) making their follow-up, and are dedicating 2012 to radically expanding their fanbase. Check out their track 'Lykke Lii'. || Casitas

Music Liberation's Writers takeover week : Chris Meredith

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Meredith) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:47:00 +0000

Day 2 of the Music Liberation Writers takeover week. Chris Meredith picks his favourite reviews of 2011 and gives us his tips for the year ahead.

"My top 3 reviews are:

1) The Bullitts & Jay Electronica – Run and Hide

2) Modual- In all Kinds

3) Seri Doja

The reason I selected The Bullitts and Jay Elec as number 1 was due to how I felt the track was taking hip-hop into a new era that we are still yet to see the fruits of. Jay Electronica is one of the most exciting talents in Hip Hop who has still to drop an album and one definitely to look out for in 2012. The Bullitts creativity and eye for an excellent piece of cinematography to compliment their music is something quite extraordinary. James Samuel, who is the creative force behind The Bullitts is another artist who will be pushing the limits of where music can take you in 2012." || The Bullitts // Jay Electronica

These are the artists I'm looking forward to hearing more from in 2012:

Keaton Henson – Keaton is an extremely fragile and talented individual whose music and art complement each other in such a way it just makes you stop and think (check the video for Charad to confirm this). His voice is as fragile and raw as his appearance and will leave you asking yourself why you ever listened to Ed Sheeran! || Keaton Henson

Cloud Boat – Cload Boat are an electronic duo from R&S Records and ever since I saw them support James Blake in Cardiff early last year a week doesn’t go by where I’m not looking for new material. 'Lions on the Beach' would be their break through single for last year, but I am eagerly anticipating their EP which drops in 2012. || Cloud Boat

Architects – A band that has been tearing the roof off of venues for a long time now, but they seem to have made a way into the ears of the mainstream through gigs and festivals throughout 2011. Whatever genre you want to classify this band under (deathcore/hardcore would be most appropriate), this is a group who I just can’t take my eye off. The band has recently released the single 'Devil’s Island' whilst on tour in the UK, which shows signs of new music for 2012. This band is heart thumping rage at its best and something that they exuberate when performing live. || Architects

Music Liberation's Writers takeover week : Tom Nash

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Nash) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:36:00 +0000

This week Music Liberation is being taken over exclusively by its' fine collection of Writers, as I, Mr 'Editor', hang up my boots and have a week off before we get back into the usual new music loving swing of things next week.

First up, our newest writer, Tom Nash, kicks things off by choosing his favourite review of 2011.

"Coming to the ML team late in the year, I only covered two releases; Dilated Peoples emcee Evidence’s second solo album Cats & Dogs and Hectic Zeniths’ self-titled debut.

With just two albums to choose from, you’d think it would be simple picking a favourite. It wasn’t.

The thumping boom-bap and laidback West Coast vibes of Cats & Dogs was refreshing in a year when mainstream Hip Hop was dominated by heavy synths and House-inspired floor fillers, whereas Hectic Zeniths provided an LP packed full of dramatic keys and strings that was perfect for shoe-gazing on a cold morning or as the soundtrack to a chill evening.

So which to choose?

While Evidence has turned out a strong album in a year of great releases, my vote goes to the newcomer: Hectic Zeniths. Each track is a beautifully crafted, multi-layered soundscape, which makes the album a wonderfully evocative experience that is just crying out for repeat listens.

With such a strong debut, Hectic Zeniths has set the bar high for future releases, but I for one, will be eagerly anticipating any new music from this exciting new artist.

Evidence - Cats And Dogs (Album Review - 21st November) || Evidence

Hectic Zeniths - Hectic Zeniths (Album Review - 29th November) || Hectic Zeniths

The Blog Sound of 2012 : The Top 5

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 12:40:00 +0000

Here our the top 5 artists of the The Blog Sound of 2012...

1. Friends

2. Theme Park

3. Beth Jeans Houghton

4. French Wives

5. Daughter

Music Liberation's Top 10 Albums of 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 14:25:00 +0000

1. EMA - Past Life Martyred Saints // Reviewed 4th July by Moker
"Past Life Martyed Saints is an organic beast, seemingly fluid, changing with each listen. Anderson has gone headfirst into these songs and the results are so honest, so desperate, so vulnerable that by the time the superbly somber and well placed 'Red Star' unfolds as the closing track, you’ll feel dazed; plunged into Anderson’s crazy world and gently escorted out the other side once the storm is over, wondering what the hell just happened. And you know what’s weirdest of all? It feels brilliant." || EMA

2. Benjamin Francis Leftwich - Last Smoke Before The Snowstorm // Reviewed 13th July by Sarah Rayner
"Remnants of the night before still in your blood stream? No fear, Benjamin Francis Leftwich will soothe your throbbing head. A sound for every aching bone, melodies to flutter across voids and ease each injury inside and out. Here we have bare-bones acoustic, stripped back to the roots to pierce the silence in a set of heart-grabbing compositions." || Benjamin Francis Leftwich

3. Mazes - A Thousand Heys // Reviewed 18th April by Jon Sidwell

"Album opener 'Go Betweens' sets the tone of the record, with simple, pacey drums interspersed with scuzzy energetic guitars and playful yet punchy vocals from frontman Jack Cooper. 'Surf & Turf / Maths Tag' demonstrates the bands ear for tempo changes, where as 'Most Days' is them at their most ferocious. A Thousand Heys is a fun, chaotic, frenzied, emotional roller coaster of a debut record that will have you hitting the repeat button throughout the forthcoming Summer." || Mazes

4. Shapes - Monotony Chic // Reviewed 27th July by Clive Rozario

"This is an urgent and intense collection of songs worthy of your time. And time is something it may need, as ‘Monotony Chic’ does take a couple listens for the tunes to sink in. It may sound a little erratic and messy at first, but there is real precision here, and it may only be on the third listen that you begin to distinguish between riffs (and man are some of the riffs nice!), screams, and time signatures." || Shapes

5. Evidence - Cats and Dogs // Reviewed 21st November by Tom Nash

"With no trace of a radio-friendly single or a floor-filling club banger, Cats & Dogs may not win Evidence new fans, but after two decades in the business, it is clear that isn’t important to him. He knows his strengths and he plays to them. If you like whiplash-inducing beats and solid rhymes, you won’t go wrong with this LP." || Evidence

6. Hectic Zeniths - Hectic Zeniths // Reviewed 29th November by Tom Nash

"While never reaching their cinematic heights, Hectic Zeniths draws comparisons with Blue Sky Black Death or Emancipator, each known for creating rich and densely layered music. At eleven tracks long and clocking in at half an hour from beginning to end, some may feel it may be on the short side, but with each song containing so many elements, replay value will undoubtedly be high." || Hectic Zeniths

7. Munroe Effect - Ultraviolenceland // Reviewed 30th May by Jon Sidwell

"Delivering a much needed and long overdue shot in the arm of a stagnant post-hardcore scene, Portsmouth’s Munroe Effect this week finally unveil their debut album ‘Ultraviolenceland’. Released through Dead Plant Records, and mastered by Alan Douche (Dillinger Escape Plan, Brand New) this record reveals a band who sound equally at home flailing chaotic guitars around, as they are laying down soaring melodies." || Munroe Effect

8. Crooked Mountain, Crooked Sea - Whats There To Write About // Reviewed 4th May by Jon Sidwell

"Clocking in at a mere 27 minutes there no hanging around with this record, but then there’s enough diversity on offer to make it somehow seem longer than that. Having been recorded predominantly live in a converted stable there is a tendency for some sounds to get drowned out by others, however I feel this adds great texture and a sense of urgency. This debut record is raw and totally uncompromising, certainly not for the faint of heart, but well worth checking out." || Crooked Mountain, Crooked Sea

9. Everyone To The Anderson - The Man Born From Inside Of A Horse // Reviewed 17th June by Jon Sidwell

"Kicking off with 'High Brow, Low Brow, No Eye Brow' (possible reference to 'High Five, Swan Dive, Nose Dive' by Pulled Apart By Horses? meh...) the band launch into their mathy guitar driven noise, with yelpy stop start vocals from Ben Gregory, supported by driven yet understated drums. Instant comparisons can be drawn with Foals ('Antidotes' era), and contemporaries such as Future Of The Left and Les Savy Fav." || Everyone To The Anderson

10. We'll Go Machete - Strong Drunk Hands // Reviewed 30th September by Clive Rozario
"‘Strong Drunk Hands’ is the debut album from the Texan quartet, and it consists of 10 tracks of the aforementioned kind of post-hardcore. To clarify, this is punk-infused post-rock – aggressive enough to be punk rock, but too melodic to be considered straight hardcore. The guitars wrap layers of experimental spiking and noodling around raw and erratic punk riffs. The drums are solidly mid-paced. The bass is heavy and fuzzy." || We'll Go Machete

Music Liberation's Top 5 EPs of 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:23:00 +0000

1. Daughter - The Wild Youth // Reviewed 9th December by Jon Sidwell

"Elena and Igor have an ear to create space within their music, moments where their instruments can breath and the listener can fully appreciate the beauty that is being played out before them. The poignant combination of Elena's lingering vocals and the delicate acoustic/electric guitars demonstrate how simplicity in music is something to be applauded." || Daughter

2. Kids - Summer Frights // Reviewed 3rd August by Jon Sidwell

"San Diego's Kids have delivered one of the most refreshing records I have come across so far this year in the shape of their debut EP 'Summer Frights'. What makes this even more delightful and impressive is that the 5-piece (Nature, Cory, Blake, Ben, and Matt) all between the ages of just 17 and 19. Kids, appropriately titled then." || Kids

3. Sea Oleena - Sleeplessness // Reviewed 15th December by Moker

"Standing at seven tracks in length, Sea Oleena’s new release 'Sleeplessness' could be considered more mini-album than EP, but that still wouldn’t justify the enormity of the music recorded by Montréal multi-instrumentalist Charlotte Loseth. The record is a beautiful warm blanket of songs, each one an epic cacophony of layered sounds, reverb and haunting female vocals delivered with the unassuming charm of a girl humming a song in her bedroom." || Sea Oleena

4. Lightguides - Samba Samba Samba // Reviewed 4th October by Jon Sidwell

"Samba Samba Samba is a record that will put a smile on your face when you're feeling down, get you in the mood to go out and party, or even for those times when you need to reflect. It's an all encompassing album from a band who clearly have the talents and the mindset to reach as many heads and hearts as they please." || Lightguides

5. Gunning For Tamar - Deaf Cow Motel // Reviewed 21st April by Clive Rozario

"A big feature of Gunning For Tamar’s post-hardcore that sets them apart from the competition is the epic and emotive vocals – containing both gentle vulnerability and commanding strength. These (scream-free) vocals, together with the general intricate nature of the layered guitars, recall the intelligent emo of Funeral For A Friend’s ‘Memory And Humanity.’ And just like FFAF, Gunning For Tamar are able to sound both progressive and accessible through their soaring melodies." || Gunning For Tamar

Music Liberation's Top 5 Tracks of 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:48:00 +0000

We begin our round up of this year with our top 5 tracks that we reviewed in 2011. This will be followed later this week by our top 5 EPs, Music Liberation writers picks of the year, and finally our top 10 albums of the year...

1. Cloud Nothings - No Future / No Past // Reviewed November 18th by Jon Sidwell

"Beginning in a haunting fashion with distant piano and slow methodical bass and drums, front man Dylan Baldi croaks in an ever demanding voice as the music slowly builds and builds. And keep it keeps building until the wheels start to fall off, but the band keep going, with Baldi’s call to arm shouts of “No future, no past” surrounded by crashing drums and flailing guitars." || Cloud Nothings

2. Dead Red Sun - Facility // Reviewed 1st February by Jon Sidwell

"Opening with a recorded voice sample, things quickly move into instrumental territory as Mike Guppy's guitar, Ollie Bremner's bass, and Tom Murphy's drums all collide with pin point precision. The pace is fast and unnerving, making the listener acutely aware that a full on crescendo is about to occur, and it dutifully does just over halfway through the track." || Dead Red Sun

3. The Bullitts - Run And Hide (Feat. Jay Electronica) // Reviewed 17th August by Chris Meredith

"The Bullitts are making musical masterpieces and Jaymes isn’t just satisfied with the soundtrack, he wants you to picture the inspiration behind the production. With 'Run and Hide' he has combined French cinema production, with a soulful and simple backing vocal, to which Jay Elec’ adds the finishing touch to what makes this track an absolute smash."|| The Bullitts

4. Netherlands - Something Or Nothing // Reviewed 5th September by Jon Sidwell (NB: Netherlands now renamed Pale Seas)

"Starting with some fluttering wind chimes & muted guitars, the track gently floats into pop/folk motion with the vocals of Jacob Scotts. His voice is delicate & vulnerable and fits the tender music perfectly. If you don't end up swaying along to this one then you've got serious balance issues. The harmonies are infectious, & repeated listens only further the addiction to this band and their sound."

5. Acrylics - Molly's Vertigo // Reviewed 15th August by Moker
"Take it with a pinch of British salt when I say the new single from Brooklyn based Acrylics is so good, I knew it had to originate from across the water. Whether or not I might be culturally bias towards the Americans doesn’t stop ‘Molly’s Vertigo’ from being an atmospheric, 80s tinged pop ballad of perfection."|| Acrylics

Merry Christmas 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 14:02:00 +0000

Merry Christmas from Music Liberation...

Lucy Rose - Driving Home For Christmas by weaponofchoice

EP Review : Likes Lions - Future Colour

noreply@blogger.com (Clive Rozario) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:29:00 +0000

Likes Lions are an alternative rock quintet from Sheffield, UK. They are not the indie band In Like Lions, nor are they the electro-pop band Live Like Lions. And they are certainly not the hardcore punk band Like Lions from New York. Ever heard of SEO boys?

This Likes Lions formed in 2009, and 'Future Colour' - released in October 2011 - is their debut EP. They take the more accessible aspects of math-rock and post-rock, and fuse them together to produce a heavier, Foals-esque, indie sound. For some reason (perhaps due to the massive success of the aforementioned Foals), I have ended up reviewing a few too many math-indie-rock EPs this year. However, Likes Lions melody-conscious take on the genre made this a somewhat enjoyable experience for me.

'Author, Dreamweaver, Visionary' is a fantastic choice to open the EP - with a captivating 40 seconds of prog-rock synth and guitar noodlings building up momentum to the crashing punk-rock drums and spiky alt-rock riffs that make up the bulk of the track. It's an energetic introduction to the band, with some fine instrumentation, but lacks the vocal hooks of the rest of the EP. 'All on Red' is a mid-paced song, with softer guitar lines and a ballad-like vocal delivery. Although it may sound a little emo for some, it's the first time we are able to hear just how strong Rich Bristow's vocals are - his soulful delivery isn't common place for math-rock singers (who normally like to yelp - sometimes incomprehensibly).

'Welcome to Seaworld' sounds the closest to what Foals produce - with a dancey drumbeat and layers of atmospheric guitar lines overshadowing a simple indie riff. Their most immediate song is 'Futures', which contains a pop-punk sensibility built up around a massive chorus - very, very memorable. Closer 'Badminton' contains the most irregular time-signature, with a math-drum line propelling inventive dual guitar-work and soaring vocal melodies - all backed by some understated violin and cello. Just when you think the song has drawn to a quiet conclusion, up jumps an up-tempo, Biffy Clyro-esque stabbing riff, in unison with stabbing strings. A thrilling end to the EP.

The reason I find Likes Lions so appealing is because they don't try to shove the irregularity of their riffs, beats and structures down your throat - like a lot of alternative math-rock bands (I think it makes them feel progressive). Instead, they use their experimental instrumentation as a unique backdrop to the kinds of pop-rock hooks that can stay with you for the rest of the day. Can't wait to see what they'll come up with next.

For fans of Tellison (and, of course, Foals). || Download 'Future Colour' EP // Likes Lions

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://likeslions.bandcamp.com/track/author-dreamweaver-visionary"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Author, Dreamweaver, Visionary by Likes Lions&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

EP Review : FaltyDL - Atlantis

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 14:06:00 +0000

Released earlier last month, 'Atlantis' is the new EP from FaltyDL. Known to his friends as Drew Lustman, FaltyDL has steadily been making a name for himself stateside as 'one of the hottest names in electronic music'. He has an impressive work rate, putting out two albums, an EP, and three singles all since 2008. Now the New York based artist is ready to release another in the shape of this four-track EP, which is his first record for Ninja Tune.

'Atlantis' is an album which pays homage to Lustman's musical knowledge and history, as well as demonstrating his ears desire to take his sounds to a new level. The title track has an almost inaudibly low bass droning throughout as a rhythmic beat commands you to move. Whilst obvious comparisons can be drawn with Fourtet on the opening track, FaltyDL opens things up on 'Can't Stop The Prophet', as the pace is slowed right down and a weird synth and strings combination proceeds to put you into a dream like state, before it all goes drum and bassy near the end. 'My Light, My Love' carries on in similar vain, with chilled but off kilter beats seemingly lulling you into a strange vortex where you can't escape. Final track 'The Sale Ends' is a more conventional minimal track, perfect for that 4am vibe.

Whilst his high productivity may lead to some questioning the continued quality of his work, FaltyDL shows that variation is the key here. This four track record shows that he has plenty of interesting ideas floating around his head, and to put a marker on that creativity would be disastrous for both him and us.

Atlantis is out now through Ninja Tune // FaltyDL

FaltyDL - 'Atlantis' by Ninja Tune

EP Review : Sea Oleena - Sleeplessness

noreply@blogger.com (Moker) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:27:00 +0000

Standing at seven tracks in length, Sea Oleena’s new release 'Sleeplessness' could be considered more mini-album than EP, but that still wouldn’t justify the enormity of the music recorded by Montréal multi-instrumentalist Charlotte Loseth. The record is a beautiful warm blanket of songs, each one an epic cacophony of layered sounds, reverb and haunting female vocals delivered with the unassuming charm of a girl humming a song in her bedroom.

Each hushed swirl of a song bleeds into the next, joined together by the rumbling and eerie ambient sounds throughout. For what on first listen could be dismissed as the twee ramblings of yet another coy female artist, scratch the surface of Loseth’s musical landscape and it’s like walking into Narnia. There’s wonder at every turn.

Vocals sounding like mere ethereal whispers hide beautiful poetry: “Invisible physicians, lawyers, and magicians / an instant of existence at the table in the kitchen” she wails as the opening lines of this record. “This is what he wrote in the ripped-up note: / I've become something even less than a ghost. / Even more of a though, I've become a mirage. / I'm the shaky air encircling the flickering flame. / I'm the white wall swallowing the window frame. hall” she hisses over ‘Insomnia Plague’.

Instrumentation is orthodox but they’re whipped into yearning swirls of something more exquisite. Plucked acoustic guitars, pianos and echoy bass drums lay the foundations for Loseth’s, numerous but never overdone multiple vocal lines.

Perhaps if criticism could be levelled it’s that there are no standout tracks to be found on this record; no big choruses or sing along lyrics, just a body of delicate spacey folk that’s presented as a single entity. This of course is the point.

The magical world of Sleeplessness is intoxicating. It feels like Loseth creates such music for the purpose of sharing with the listener something greater than herself. This organic and ever shifting waterfall of a record demands and deserves our attention.

All songs and lyrics are available on the Sea Oleena bandcamp page, whilst the cassette version of this album (including her first self titled EP) can be purchased via Bridgetown Records. // Sea Oleena

Sea Oleena – Southbound by netlabelism

&amp;lt;a href="http://seaoleena.bandcamp.com/track/insomnia-plague"&amp;gt;Insomnia Plague by Sea Oleena&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;

EP Review : Alphabet Backwards - British Explorer

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:47:00 +0000

Recently released through Highline Records, 'British Explorer' is a new three track EP from Oxford's Alphabet Backwards. With apparent support from the likes of Huw Stephens, Tom Robinson, and Steve Lamacq, the band have been making steady inroads during 2011, with their simple mission statement being to 'champion the noble art of pop music, dancing all the way'.

Opening track 'Big Top' brings up a clear comparison with Cardiff's Los Campesinos! with the dual combination of male and female vocals being a striking one, however some clever synths help to widen the gap between the bands' style, and Alphabet Backwards ear for a catchy melody is hard to ignore. 'Tonight' carries on in a similar vein, with an interesting mix up of acoustic guitars put against the synths, as well as a clear appreciation of space within the song, which helps to broaden the bands' appeal.

The final track of this short record is 'Taller', which is also the leading single to be taken from it. An obvious choice too after hearing the opening few bars, as some frankly irresistible vocals from frontman James Hitchman are played out over yet more guitar/synth based pop music. I think what helps make Alphabet Backwards stand out over their pop loving piers is that they do keep things simple, not being afraid to let their music and lyrics stand up for themselves, as opposed to other acts who throw everything into it hoping something will stick.

The 'British Explorer' EP is available now through Highline Records // Alphabet Backwards

Taller by alphabet backwards

EP Review : Daughter - The Wild Youth

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:08:00 +0000

Daughter are Elena Tonra and Igor Haefeli, a double act that have swept through 2011 with numerous gigs across the UK, put out an EP titled 'His Young Heart', and they end the year with another record, 'The Wild Youth', which is out through Communion Records.

Personally I first discovered Daughter whilst they were supporting Benjamin Francis Leftwich during his Autumn tour, catching their intimate and spell-bounding show at the Union Chapel in Islington, where their exquisite performance equalled if not better that of the headliner.

'The Wild Youth' begins with 'Home', a track which showcases what makes Daughter so utterly brilliant. Elena and Igor have an ear to create space within their music, moments where their instruments can breath and the listener can fully appreciate the beauty that is being played out before them. The poignant combination of Elena's lingering vocals and the delicate acoustic/electric guitars demonstrate how simplicity in music is something to be applauded. 'Medicine' is basically built upon simple piano chords, with the focus put upon the beautiful words and vocals, as is 'Love', with Elena's mystical vocals driving the song along as drums and guitars slowly build to a gentle crescendo. My favourite track on the record is 'Youth', with the thought provoking lyrics having the perfect backdrop of drawn-out music to stand out and really be counted.

It's testament to Daughter's belief and confidence in their own ideas that they give their music almost a license to bask and shine in its simplicity, and how grateful we must be for that. Music Liberation eagerly awaits a full length release in 2012...

You can buy 'The Wild Youth' EP now // Daughter // Communion Records

Daughter - 'Home' (Taken from 'The Wild Youth' EP) by ohDaughter

Daughter - 'Medicine' (Taken from 'The Wild Youth' EP) by ohDaughter

New Video : Gabrielle Aplin - Home

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:34:00 +0000

We first caught up with Gabrielle Aplin back in August 2010, when we carried out a quick-fire interview with her, learning lots of interesting things like discovering her favourite sandwich is "Brie, Grape, and Cranberry". Since that momentous occasion she has released a couple of EPs alongside some constant touring up and down the UK, as well as playing at this years Glastonbury Festival. 2012 see's the release of her third EP titled 'Home' through Never Fade Records, of which the title track we have the video for.

It's a beautiful song, showcasing Gabrielle's delicate and ethereal voice, as well as a songwriting ability beyond her tender years. The video is also quite special, directed by Joshua Sanger it features some stunning shots of Gabrielle and the English countryside.

You can pre-order 'Home' ahead of the January 9th release date. // Gabrielle Aplin

Lying To The Mirror by Gabrielle Aplin

The Blog Sound of 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

As some of you may or may not know, the BBC have a yearly 'Sound Of ...' list, whereby they feature a longlist of 15 artists they think will have a successful year ahead. This initial longlist gets whittled down to a top 5, with eventually an overall winner being chosen. 2011 saw Jessie J being picked, 2010 was Ellie Goulding, 2009 was Little Boots, and so on. The lists are compiled by a team of 'experts', ranging from music critics, editors, broadcasters, and bloggers.

Well in an attempt to try something a bit different, three of the most esteemed bloggers out there (Andy VonPip from The Von Pip Musical Express, Robin from Breaking More Waves, and Simon from Sweeping The Nation) decided it would be an interesting experiment to run a similar type of poll, with the votes coming solely from music bloggers. They say:-

"We mooted the idea of conducting a poll of the UK’s best music blogs & asking them who they thought would be the “Sound Of 2012.” We hoped by having an ‘alternative’ it may throw up some interesting results which we could contrast and compare to the Beebs ‘official’ one . It was felt that an alternative music “Bloggers Sound of ...” list could highlight what’s really been going on musically, down at the coalface so to speak."

So without further ado here are the top 15 artists that us music bloggers chose! (Music Liberation's choices will be revealed in early January!)

Houdini Dax / Lianne De Haves / Theme Park / French Wives / The Good Natured / Alt J / The Jezabels / Lucy Rose / Bastille / Washington / Friends /Mersault / Daughter / Beth Jeans Houghton / Outfit.

The blogs involved in compiling this rather exciting list were :-

A Tidal Wave Of Indifference, Breaking More Waves, My Band Is Better Than Your Band,God Is In the TV, Sweeping The Nation, The Von Pip Musical Express, The Recommender, Faded Glamour, Drunken Werewolf, Flying With Anna, Not Many Experts, Under-classed Idle Ideas, Sonic Masala, Mudkiss, The Ring Master, Both Bars On, Music From A Green Window, Dots And Dashes, The Daily Growl, And Everyone’s A DJ, Kowalskiy! Just Music I Like, Cruel Rhythms, The Blue Walrus, Music Fans Mic, 17 Seconds, Eaten By Monsters, Seven Sevens, Unpeeled, NuRave Brain Wave, Peenko, Music Liberation, Song, By Toad

The top 5 and subsequent winner of The Blog Sound of 2012 will be announced alongside that of the BBC's in January.

We would love to know what you think of the Blog Sound of 2012 list, so let us know! Here's some of our early faves to get you started... (And here is the official BBC list so you can compare with that if you like too!)

Daughter - Love (taken from 'The Wild Youth EP') by ohDaughter

Lucy Rose - Scar by Lucy Rose

Friends - Friend Crush by LuckyNumberMusic

Vehicles by OUTFIT

Cutting Noise Podcast 002 (November 2011)

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:28:00 +0000

The new Cutting Noise podcast is now available to stream and download. Running in association with Music Liberation the monthly podcasts aim to deliver 10 new tracks discovered during the past month.

You can follow Cutting Noise on twitter, facebook, and tumblr.

As well as listening to all the previous podcasts on soundcloud.

CUTTING NOISE PODCAST 002 (November 2011) by cuttingnoise

1. Hysterical Injury - Maths
2. Lucy Rose - Middle Of The Bed
3. Alphabet Backwards - Taller
4. Likes Lions - Author, Dreamweaver, Visionary
5. Katie Malco - Laadeedaa
6. Hectic Zeniths - I Might Drown
7. Therapist - Extreme Fever
8. Sea Oleena - Insomnia Plague
9. Cloud Nothings - No Future / No Past
10. Daughter - Love

Album Review : Hectic Zeniths - Hectic Zeniths

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Nash) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:37:00 +0000

Hectic Zeniths’ self titled debut is the work of Brooklyn, NY native and current Philadelphia resident Adam Morgan Prince. His moniker is an anagram of Zeitschtichen, a German word meaning shifts in, or layers of time. This is an apt name for both the artist and the album, as each track is a richly layered, brooding soundscape.

Anyone who frequents QN5 Music’s forum will already be aware of what happens when Prince gets hold of a piano. Under the moniker ‘amplifya’, his take on CunninLynguists’ ‘The Light’ from the QN5 Rmx Vol. 2 EP (2006) was well received, whilst he also showcased his chops in a cover of ‘Gathered’ from Tonedeff’s Archetype (2005).

His album follows a loose formula and is successful for it. Most of the tracks are built around a melancholy piano section and either live or sampled drums. Added to this are vocal samples that work like added instrumentation, violins and a couple of tracks featuring guitar (‘Why Shoot Debris About It’ and ‘Zeitschtichen’), making a dark and sombre LP that is perfect for bumping in your headphones on a cold winter morning.

The intro, ‘One That Got Away’ sets the mood well, with reversed strings, a mournful vocal sample and playful beat, before segueing into the first piano led track, ‘Then and Now’. The album goes from strength to strength from there. ‘I Might Drown’, a standout among an album full of strong cuts, features an upbeat drum pattern that contrasts the subtle keys, haunting vocals that drift eerily in and out of the song and the dramatic bursts of violin. The subtle guitar in ‘Zeitschtichen’ compliments the piano and plodding beat well and an airy vocal weaving through the piece wraps things up nicely.

While never reaching their cinematic heights, Hectic Zeniths draws comparisons with Blue Sky Black Death or Emancipator, each known for creating rich and densely layered music. At eleven tracks long and clocking in at half an hour from beginning to end, some may feel it may be on the short side, but with each song containing so many elements, replay value will undoubtedly be high.

Hectic Zeniths will be released 10th January 2012, you can stream or pre-order the album now

I might drown by hecticzeniths

then and now by hecticzeniths

New Music : Rosa Valle / Therapist / Smother Party

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:38:00 +0000

Rosa Valle

Uncompromising math rock four-piece from Middlesborough, Rosa Valle recently released their debut EP titled 'Holy Bermuda', through a split between Holy Roar Records and Big Scary Monsters. Sounding like a cross between Rolo Tomassi at their heaviest, Foals at their gentlest, and The Murder of Rosa Luxemburg at their craziest, this EP demonstrates a band with a clear belief in their ideas and a band who possess an inherent desire to express themselves in whatever way they see fit. I'm expecting big things from these chaps when it comes to the recording of their debut LP. *Recommended track - 'Mathemagician'.*

Stream the record on bandcamp. || Rosa Valle || Holy Roar Records || Big Scary Monsters

Mathemagician by Rosa Valle

Therapist

Bursting out of Phoenix CA come Therapist, a bouncy electro punk act who first came to our attention with the track 'I Know What I Want'. Released through Indian Gold Records, that song was very much reminiscent of the likes of Teenagersintokyo, Chaingang, and Operator Please, with the stop start jerky combo of the vocals and the bands stripped back electro punk working to great effect. This week the band releases their debut EP, titled 'Hearts Beats', featuring more of the same bass heavy electro punk vibes.

Grab a download/stream now. || Therapist || Indian Gold Records

Therapist - I Know What I Want by diganant

Smother Party

Based out of Brooklyn, Smother Party are a groove laden instrumental rock three-piece who earlier this year released their debut album, 'Casa Limon'. Whilst being a challenging album it will reward those who stick with it, as repeated plays open up a whole new world of what can be acheived with two guitars and a drum kit. In parts bewildering, in parts brilliant, 'Casa Limon' showcases a band with abstract ideas above the 'normal' rockers station. Particularly of note is the sound of the guitars on this album, which almost sound out of tune at times but are still somehow hugely rhythmic and head nod-able, like 'Serious Beef'.

Stream/Download on bandcamp || Variant Records || Smother Party

Smother Party - Ghost Games by variant_records

New Video : The Producers - Episode 2: The Bullitts

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:32:00 +0000

We featured The Bullitts earlier this year with a single review of 'Run & Hide', a collaborative track that featured Jay Electronica. We also enthused about the 'beautifully crafted cinematic experience' that accompanied the song, a pattern which has been repeated with each track that has been taken from The Bullitts debut LP 'They'll Die By Dawn And Other Short Stories'. Well now thanks to a new six part music documentary being put together by Red Bull Studios and Vice Media titled 'The Producers', you can now meet the man behind The Bullitts, the enthralling Jeymes Samuel.

In episode 2 of the ongoing series, Jeymes talks about everything connected with his love for music and films, as well as behind the scenes footage of him working with Syience on a short film project score. It's really quite inspiring stuff, and shows a man with a genuine interest for making art, with a clear intent on truly making a mark on those around him.

RUN & HIDE by TheBullitts

Album Review : Evidence - Cats & Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Nash) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:40:00 +0000

As is often the case with artists that earn critical acclaim, ‘backpackers’ favourite, LA’s Dilated Peoples never seemed to be able to turn that praise into the commercial success they deserve. With four albums under their belts, DJ Babu, Rakaa Iriscience and Evidence decided to take a break from recording as a group and focus on their solo careers. Of the group’s two lyricists, it is Evidence that has successfully managed to maintain something of a cult following in an increasingly crowded hip hop market.

Following the meteorology theme Ev started on his well-received debut LP 'The Weatherman' in 2007, Cats & Dogs is his first release for Minneapolis based Rhymesayers Entertainment.

While Evidence may not be the most technically gifted emcee, his voice is engaging, his flow polished and on every track he oozes a laidback confidence that fans of West Coast Hip Hop will be familiar with.

What does need to highlighted, though, is Ev’s ear for beats. Simply put, it is impeccable. While he is himself an accomplished producer, only two tracks on the album ('I Don’t Need Love' and 'Late For The Sky') boast his name in the liner notes, even then only with co-production credits. Instead he hands production duties to long-time friend and collaborator The Alchemist, duo Sid Roams, Rahki, Charli Brown and Twiz the Beat King, the lesser-known names more than holding their own in esteemed company as the album shifts from soulful and introspective to big and brash seamlessly.

The album also features the legendary DJ Premier who laces the understated single 'You' and the darker, horn-based album closer 'Epilogue' with his trademark chopped samples and scratched hooks, to the delight of this fan-boy, at least.

The featured guests are also strong. Aloe Blacc drops in to add some soul to the sinister opener 'The Liner Notes' and 'The Red Carpet' sees Evidence hold his own with two of Rap’s most celebrated lyricists; Raekwon (of Wu-Tang Clan) and West Coast veteran, Ras Kass over a smooth vocal-sample based Alchemist backdrop. Label mates Slug and Aesop Rock turn up on Emo-Rap fans’ wet-dream 'Late To The Sky' and underground Rap’s current golden boy (and deservedly so) Roc Marciano blesses the moody strings and guitar lick of 'Fame' alongside Mobb Deep’s Prodigy.

With no trace of a radio-friendly single or a floor-filling club banger, Cats & Dogs may not win Evidence new fans, but after two decades in the business, it is clear that isn’t important to him. He knows his strengths and he plays to them.

If you like whiplash-inducing beats and solid rhymes, you won’t go wrong with this LP.

You can buy the album now from Rhymesayers Entertainment // Evidence

[*Many thanks to Tom Nash for his first article for Music Liberation, find out more about Tom on his The Write Tom Nash site.*]

NEW Single 'Red Carpet' by EVIDENCE feat. Raekwon the Chef & Ras Kass by Suniula.D

Single Review : Cloud Nothings - No Future No Past

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:34:00 +0000

A little over a year ago Ohio based foursome Cloud Nothings released their self titled debut record to much critical acclaim and blog lauding. So there was much anticipation last week when it emerged a new track had surfaced which is set to appear on the band’s new album stated for release through Wichita Recordings on February 6th 2012. The album will be called ‘Attack On Memory’ whilst the newly surfaced song is titled ‘No Future / No Past’.

The track kicks off the new LP and as opening tracks go it’s really quite a monster. Beginning in a haunting fashion with distant piano and slow methodical bass and drums, front man Dylan Baldi croaks in an ever demanding voice as the music slowly builds and builds. And keep it keeps building until the wheels start to fall off, but the band keep going, with Baldi’s call to arm shouts of “No future, no past” surrounded by crashing drums and flailing guitars (ED: Gotta love those flailing guitars...). The intensity and passion of this opening track really does set the album up well, with the potential shown a real yardstick for the untold possibilities of the forthcoming album.

Did I forget to mention that LEGENDARY producer Steve Albini has produced the record? Yeah well he has. And there’s a nine minute track called ‘Wasted Days’ which is apparently MEGA heavy.

Excited much? Music Liberation is.

Wichita Recordings // Cloud Nothings

Cloud Nothings - No Future / No Past by Wichita Recordings

EP Review : Lucy Rose - Middle Of The Bed

noreply@blogger.com (Jon Sidwell) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 12:37:00 +0000

You may recognise Lucy Rose from her appearances alongside Bombay Bicycle Club on their recent UK tour, as well as her stand out performance on their cover of Lana Del Rey’s ‘Video Games’ for the BBC’s Radio 1 live lounge. Now she is set to stand on her own two feet with the release of her first EP, produced by Charlie Hugall (Florence & The Machine, Jack Peñate, Crystal Fighters), and released through Fauna Records.

The title track ‘Middle Of The Bed’ begins quietly but we are quickly introduced to Lucy’s dainty yet strangely intoxicating vocals of which this track is based around. Demonstrating an ear for vocal tempo changes and a song writing talent beyond her tender years, she sings with great confidence in her own ability and ideas. The music behind her vocals builds throughout the track to a gentle crescendo, much like some of the material on Foals ‘Total Life Forever’ LP, with the two elements combining to create a euphoric soundscape.

Also check out the video for the track, which whilst being simply shot and produced does work really well with the song, helping to invoke those emphatic feelings. It is directed by Orestes Mitas

Elsewhere on the EP there are four remixes of Middle Of The Bed, including one from Bombay’s Jack Steadman, with all of them demonstrating the variety that can be found within the track to play around with. I suspect that this diversity within Lucy Rose’s music is sure to become a prominent feature of her success on forthcoming records, with new song 'Scar' an example of that.

You can grab ‘Middle Of The Bed’ now through Fauna Records // Lucy Rose

Lucy Rose - Middle Of The Bed by Lucy Rose