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THE BLACK AND WHITE EP * demo of the week *
19 May 2008 / Demo / 6 Trk CDR
:: Inego ::
Now, normally I would baulk at the thought of a six track demo from any band

WALKING THROUGH HOUSES * recommended *
19 May 2008 / Wrath / 2 Trk CD
:: The Scaramanga Six ::
Possibly The Scaramanga Six’s finest moment so far

WAKE UP
19 May 2008 / Epitah / 1 Trk CD
:: Story Of The Year ::
From Story Of The Year’s current album “The Black Swan” this is perhaps the bands biggest anthem

GANG OF THIEVES
19 May 2008 / 1 Trk CD
:: State Radio ::
A politically fuelled agenda that rages against the U.S. Administration

TAKES
19 May 2008 / Domino / 12 Trk CD
:: Adem ::
Compilation (spanning 1991-2001)of covers re-interpreted by Adem

LIEJACKER
19 May 2008 / 13 Trk CD
:: Thea Gilmore ::
Pretty much the sound of lush singer / songwriter material spun out for wider consumption on Radio 2

ARM’S WAY
19 May 2008 / Rough Trade / 12 Trk CD
:: Islands ::
At times a demanding album, which can only be tamed with a series of listens

A FIRE BORN IN DALLAS
19 May 2008 / Pay For The Piano Recordings / 3 Trk CD
:: Ever Since The Lake Caught Fire ::
A sharper sound from the city that has so far delivered some of the UK’s most intriguing rock music in recent years.

COST OF LIVING
19 May 2008 / Manta Ray / 2 Trk CD
:: The Tunics ::
They’ve possibly got everything right apart from the songs themselves

NEW YORK * recommended *
19 May 2008 / Roseangle Records / 1 Trk CD
:: The Hazey Janes ::
Pleasant Scottish pop with a transatlantic drive, in more ways than one.

EPIC LAST SONG
19 May 2008 / Virgin (EMI) / 1 Trk CD
:: Does It Offend You Yeah ? ::
“Epic Last Song” is as capable as it is obvious

ANGLES * album of the week *
19 May 2008 / Sunday Best / 12 Trk CD
:: Dan Le Sac Vs Scroobius Pip ::
They are perhaps more the sound of a modern London than anyone else out there

FEEL GOOD HITS OF A NUCLEAR WINTER
19 May 2008 / Double Six (Domino) / 8 Trk CD
:: The Laurel Collective ::
Genuinely different.

COLD TOWN
19 May 2008 / Vibes & Pressure / 1 Trk CD
:: Natty ::
It’s good to hear someone digging into a different past to present something new

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 19/05/08
18 May 2008 / Various Formats
:: Duels :: One Night Only :: Paramore :: Harper :: Get Well Soon :: Outside Royalty :: Wave Pictures :: Goodnight And I Wish :: Jason Ringenberg :: Crimes of the Future :: Warner E. Hodges :: Kelly Rowland ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for next Monday the 19/05/08

I CAN HEAR YOUR VOICE
12 May 2008 / Full Time Hobby / 1 Trk CD
:: The Accidental ::
So simple yet so effective

CAUGHT IN THE CROSS FIRE
12 May 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CDR
:: Sidewaysdown ::
The name makes this band sound average but they are far, far from ordinary

KILL THE CAPTAINS EP
12 May 2008 / Armellodie / 4 Trk CD
:: Kill The Captains ::
An edgy, syncopated release that bangs on quite well with a few new ideas

GOD
12 May 2008 / Universal / 3 Trk Enhanced CDR
:: Attic Lights ::
This is actually far better than Nada Surf's current album

SOMETIMES
12 May 2008 / Cityscape / 2 Trk CD
:: Merchandise ::
There aren’t many bands around these days who are capable of making genuinely happy music

TELL THE NEIGHBOURS EP
12 May 2008 / Demo / 5 Trk CDR
:: Mendoza ::
Metallised ructions from Manchester's Mendoza

RIP IT OFF
12 May 2008 / Matador Records / 16 Trk CD
:: Times New Viking ::
This is one band that are guaranteed to sound better live than they do on record.

WEATHER’S COMING . . .
12 May 2008 / Pias / 12 Trk CD
:: Phoebe Killdeer and the Short Straws ::
From Australia, Ms Killdeer..

QUEEN OF THE WORLD
12 May 2008 / RCA / 1 Trk CD
:: Ida Maria ::
With a jiggery beat and a reasonable chorus this is a pretty good party song.

SERAFIN * demo of the week *
12 May 2008 / Demo / 2 Trk CD
:: Spectrum 7 ::
The powerful new rock sounds of Spectrum 7 are carefully crafted in Surrey basements

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
12 May 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CDR
:: Accolade ::
A massively competent record with a broad brush of appeal

ELEPHANT SHELL * recommended *
12 May 2008 / Memphis Industries / 11 Trk CD
:: Tokyo Police Club ::
Canada’s Tokyo Police Club seem to have had mixed fortunes

VANTAGE POINT
12 May 2008 / V2 / 10 Trk CD
:: dEUS ::
You can’t help but feel that acts like this should be given prominent slots at the upcoming summer festivals.

RED, YELLOW AND BLUE
12 May 2008 / Warp / 11 Trk CD
:: Born Ruffians ::
Another import from Toronto, Born Ruffians bring over another rattled collection of songs

FITS & STARTS
12 May 2008 / I Can Count / 12 Trk CD
:: O Fracas ::
Schizoid moments populated by wirey, math, lo-fi punches and an abundance of twisted, disco discord

A FORCE OF ONE
12 May 2008 / Bongo Best Records / 12 Trk CD
:: Ari Shine ::
A thoughtful and considered album.

OUR III WILLS
12 May 2008 / Weekender Records / 13 Trk CD
:: Shout Out Louds ::
A very poppy and convincing outing for this very promising Scando quintet.

FOR EMMA, FOREVER
12 May 2008 / 4 AD / 9 Trk CD
:: Bon Iver ::
One of this years better takes on acoustica.

YOU CROSS MY PATH * album of the week *
12 May 2008 / Cooking Vinyl / 10 Trk CD
:: The Charlatans ::
The Charlatans once again proving that they are capable legends

THE FLIGHTCASE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
12 May 2008 / White Label / 17 Trk CD (+ 17 Trk Acoustic Version)
:: Avant Gardner ::
Very much a missed opportunity for someone with an obvious talent.

SMOKE FAIRIES * recommended *
12 May 2008 / White Label / 9 Trk CD
:: Smoke Fairies ::
Striking, essential, pastoral sounds from a captivating duo

MOON SAFARI
05 May 2008 / Virgin (EMI) / 10 Trk CD + 10 Trk Remix Disc
:: Air ::
Benchmarks in how to make just a few keyboard noises sound like a more sophisticated proposition

THE FIGURE EIGHT EP
05 May 2008 / On The Bone / 4 Trk CD
:: This Et Al ::
This Et Al return with songs you can now really get your teeth into

MIND ON FIRE COLLECTIVE
05 May 2008 / Mind On Fire / 12 Trk CD
:: Various Artists ::
Mind On Fire provide a real education for us all.

KINGDOM HEARTS EP
05 May 2008 / 14 Sandwiches / 4 Trk CD
:: The Star Fighter Pilot ::
A pinnacle, you could argue in The Star Fighter Pilot's catalogue so far.

ACROSS THE PENNINES Vol.5 * album of the week *
05 May 2008 / Across The Pennines/ 10 Trk CD R
:: Various Artists ::
ATP do all the hard work, you just have to place it in a CD player and listen – it’d be wrong not to..

SUN SICK
05 May 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: Death To The Ghosts ::
Post grunge and post-hardcore snapshots of guitar kept tightly in line with some skilfully sharp drumming

VICTORIA
05 May 2008 / Weekender Records / 2 Trk CD
:: The Official Secrets Act ::
A talented bunch with enough of a quirky slant to supplement their slightly more retro brand of rock and roll

WE ARE THE PHYSICS ARE OK AT MUSIC
05 May 2008 / This Is Fake DIY Records / 12 Trk CD
:: We Are The Physics ::
If there is actually anything new and interesting about We Are Physics, then it’s hard to fathom

FOR THE TEMPERATE LIVES * download of the week *
05 May 2008 / High Voltage / Digital Download
:: The Maple State ::
“Temperate Lives” is Maple State's definitive EMO statement

THE LAST TYCOON
05 May 2008 / Wichita Recordings / 10 Trk CD
:: Peter Morén ::
Peter is the chap from Peter Bjorn and John

VUITTON BLUES
05 May 2008 / Double Six (Domino) / 2 Trk CD
:: The Laurel Collective ::
Converges on an impressive chorus before ricocheting into some dizzy twangy turbulence

BLACK MORNING
05 May 2008 / Chess Club / 3 Trk CD
:: Post War Years ::
A fantastic cover that features a great picture of Tiger - the music's good too!

LET THE BLIND LEAD THOSE WHO CAN SEE BUT CANNOT FEEL
05 May 2008 / 4 AD / Kranky / 14 Trk CD
:: Atlas Sound ::
Atlas Sound is Braford Cox who is also the front man of Deerhunter

JULIA
05 May 2008 / Kids / 2 Trk CD
:: The Steers ::
This quartet make music for the indie dancefloor

REPLICA SUN MACHINE
05 May 2008 / Wall Of Sound (pias) / 11 Trk CD
:: The Shortwave Set ::
The Shortwave Set prove their point with a credible collection of substance.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT * joint single of the week *
05 May 2008 / Full Time Hobby / 1 Trk CD
:: White Denim ::
Explore this band further and you will be both surprised and certainly not disappointed

BUBBLE & SCRAPE
05 May 2008 / Domino / 32 Trk CD
:: Sebadoh ::
Another thoughtful re-issue by Domino Record

WATER CURSES
05 May 2008 / Domino / 4 Trk CD
:: Animal Collective ::
Recently they came, they saw and they conquered

LIFE IS SWEET * recommended *
05 May 2008 / Bad Sneakers / 11 Trk CD
:: The Lodger ::
No “Pig’s Cysts” here though – just delightful jangles

THIS IS AN EMERGENCY * joint single of the week *
05 May 2008 / Dance To The Radio / 1 Trk CD
:: The Pigeon Detectives ::
Just how good is this record ?

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 28/04/08
05 May 2008 / Various Formats
:: Vatican DC :: Adele :: Jont :: Langhorne Slim :: The Rivers :: A Silent Film :: Jamie Lidel :: What Would Jesus Drive :: Kraak& Smaak :: Kelly Rowland ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for next Monday the 28/04/08

ST. JUDE * joint album of the week *
28 April 2008 / Universal / A&M Records / 12 Trk CD
:: The Courteeners ::
You get the feeling that despite the initial success, they have maybe only just started.

THE BLACK SWAN
28 April 2008 / Epitah / 13 Trk CD
:: Story Of The Year ::
Cue polished deathly new rock with screamo bound progressive packages of intimidating rock

CHRISTOPHER, YOU’RE A SOLDIER NOW
28 April 2008 / Albino : Idioglossia / 2 Trk CD
:: Kat Flint ::
Gives further gravitas to Flint's growing reputation

LOOK FOR THE WOMAN
28 April 2008 / Sunday Best / 5 Trk Remix CD
:: Dan Le Sac Vs Scroobius Pip ::
Could this be the break through for Le Sac and Scroobius?

WHO BUILT THE ROAD
28 April 2008 / V2 / 1 Trk CD
:: Isobel Cambell :: Mark Lanegan ::
Dark country music to perfection

DWELL
28 April 2008 / Mercury / 12 Trk CD
:: The Envy Corps ::
Modern scratching indie soul and fractured guitar symphonies

BLACK MOON
28 April 2008 / Wall Of Sound (pias) / 2 Trk CD
:: A. Human ::
I’m not sure why it takes six people to make this record.

TONIGHT, I HAVE TO LEAVE IT
28 April 2008 / Weekender / 1 Trk CD
:: Shout Out Louds ::
A great single from the Swedish pop quintet Shout Out Louds

THE HUNGRY SAW
28 April 2008 / Beggars Banquet / 12 Trk CD
:: Tindersticks ::
In my mind it’s over rated, in my heart it’s overblown.

CRYSTAL CASTLES
28 April 2008 / Pias / 16 Trk CD
:: Crystal Castles ::
If only everything strived to be as original as this.

HEARTCORE * joint album of the week *
28 April 2008 / Leaf / 12 Trk CD
:: Wildbirds & Peacedrums ::
Be prepared for an altogether beautiful and different sound.

MY PAPER MADE MEN
28 April 2008 / 19 Recordings / 10 Trk CD
:: Amy Studt ::
Studt creates a gothic outlook on the whole singer/songwriter versus rock chick sound

SMOKE
28 April 2008 / Domino / Double Six / 10 Trk CD
:: White Williams ::
On the face of it , it seems all too simple, but look a little deeper and there are dozens of things going

CLOSE TO MIDNIGHT
24 April 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: The Satellite Towns ::
A band who actually live up to their claims of sounding just that little bit different.

BODIES MADE FOR LOVE AND PAIN
24 April 2008 / Demo / 6 Trk CDR
:: The Counter Culture ::
You suspect it’s still and early demo and from that perspective it’s a damn good attempt.

SQUEEZE ME
24 April 2008 / 7 Trk CD
:: Kraak & Smaak ::
Sounds like they’ve been slaving behind the keyboard of their computer to make this dance orientated DJ’s delight

COLLECTED GHOST STORIES * demo e.p. of the week *
24 April 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: God’s Little Eskimo ::
A superb way to happily soundtrack the disheartened.

DOUBT / HOPE
24 April 2008 / Leaf / 1 Trk CD
:: Wildbirds & Peacedrums ::
This Swedish duo are certainly taking female fronted music off the beaten track

SUNKEN PUBLIC SQUARES * demo album of the week *
21 April 2008 / Demo / 11 Trk CDR
:: Monster Island ::
Something important is going on here.

RINGER
21 April 2008 / Domino / 4 Trk CD
:: Four Tet ::
This may be Four Tet’s most unassuming and accessible score to date.

ELECTRONIC PROJECTS FOR MUSICIANS
21 April 2008 / Yep Roc : Simian / 14 Trk CD
:: The Apples In Stereo ::
Even for the uninitiated it provides a mind blowing glimpse of a band whose off-cuts can create an album as good as this

NO SOCIAL
21 April 2008 / Wall Of Sound (pias) / 4 Trk CD
:: The Shortwave Set ::
One for for the indie dancefloor

DEAD FISH
21 April 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CD
:: The Dandretta ::
The Dandretta are one of this city’s more traditional bands

TIME IS NOT A LINE AND I AM NOT A ROCK / CHUTES
21 April 2008 / Xtra Mile Recordings / Split 2 Trk 7” Single
:: Rotary Ten :: Colour ::
Double Header that perhaps fails to be the sum of its parts..

MY BEST FRIENDS GOING OUT WITH A GIRL I LIKE
21 April 2008 / Demo / 2 Trk CD
:: David Cronenberg’s Wife ::
“Don’t go down the alley way, what I’ll do to him I’d better not say..”

KITCH BITCH
21 April 2008 / Art Goes Pop / 2 Trk CD
:: Isosceles ::
Subconcious rework of "Gay Bar" ?

100 DAYS 100 NIGHTS (single)
21 April 2008 / Daptone / 2 Trk CD
:: Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings ::
Something old seems like something wondrously new.

FOXES * recommended *
21 April 2008 / Akoustik Anarkhy / 2 Trk 7” Vinyl
:: Cats In Paris ::
Sounds like a games console stuck inside a David Lynch movie

JOHN & JEHN
21 April 2008 / White Label / 10 Trk CD
:: John & Jehn ::
John and Jehn are both a couple and band mates which I’m sure aids the creative process as well as chucking in few tensions too

WE GO HUNTING * joint single of the week *
21 April 2008 / Beggars Banquet / 2 Trk CD
:: iLiKETRAiNS ::
Always good value, always creative

SHE’S A WEAPON * joint single of the week *
21 April 2008 / !K7 / 2 Trk CD
:: Twisted Wheel ::
Stacks up as one of the more exciting surprises of 2008.

HESPERUS * album of the week*
21 April 2008 / Torgtuga Recordings / 7 Trk CD
:: 5IVE ::
I think you could bang on all day on the subject of who 5ive sound like

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 21/04/08
21 April 2008 / Various Formats
:: Duels :: 4 or 5 Magicians :: The Indelicates :: Parka :: The Envy Corps :: Cajun Dance Party :: Tokyo Police Club :: Pushbike Army :: The Hidden Messages :: Idle Lovers :: Atomic Hooligan :: Captain Phoenix :: FlyKKiller :: Rogue Wave :: Black Tide :: My Little Problem ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for 21/04/08

OTHER APRIL 2008 RELEASES
21 April 2008 / Various Formats
:: The Triffids :: Panic At The Disco :: Boy Kill Boy :: Björk :: Tindersticks :: Helen Boulding :: Roebeck :: Navvy :: The Business :: Angus & Julia Stone :: Estelle :: Sasha :: Lights. Action ! :: White Williams :: Royal Treatment Plant :: Asia :: Kid Captain :: Broken Records :: Robyn :: The Last Shadow Puppets :: C R Avery :: Headway :: ::
Other April 2008 releases covered in detail including Trifids, Angus & Julia Stone, plus that record from the Last Shadow Puppets

THIS CITY DRAWS MAPS
21 April 2008 / Bad Sneakers / 8 Trk CD
:: The Rosie Taylor Project ::
A rather handsome collection of intricate and original songs

ON THE BONE COMPILATION NUMBER TWO *recommended *
14 April 2008 / On The Bone / 19 Trk CD
:: Various Artists ::
There’s a wide spread of music but for anyone genuinely interested in the Northern Music Scene, this is an absolute must

GODARD’S GIRLFRIEND
14 April 2008 / Probe Plus / 13 Trk CD
:: Calvin Party ::
This review will only really touch the surface of what Calvin Party are all about

COLIN MELOY SINGS LIVE !
14 April 2008 / Rough Trade / 17 Trk CD
:: Colin Meloy ::
The Decemberists’ lead singers catalogue of solo songs on the road

TRIPTYCH
14 April 2008 / Too Pure (Beggars) / 12 Trk CD
:: Shooting At Unarmed Men ::
John Chappel, has now taken the Shooting name to Australia and reconvened the outfit using local Antipodeans

FLATLINE * recommended*
14 April 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: The Score ::
Takes the spirit of 1st generation 70’s indie bands and fuels it with the adrenaline of all that’s new.

WALK IT OFF
14 April 2008 / XL / 12 Trk CD
:: Tapes n’ Tapes ::
If any recent band can nail down the ideal lo-fi pop sound it has to be Tapes’N Tapes

KING OF THE GYPSIES
14 April 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: Satellites ::
Imagine for one moment, Coldplay playing Dire Straits covers with Steve Craddock on rhythm guitar

THE GOOD OLD DAYS * hot pick *
14 April 2008 / Bad Sneakers / 2 Trk CD
:: The Lodger ::
Brimming with enough charisma to kick off the summer early

BACK TO THE CAT *recommended *
14 April 2008 / 10 Trk CD
:: Barry Adamson ::
The latest album “Back To The Cat” really does try to live up to its name

THERE WERE WOLVES
14 April 2008 / Full Time Hobby / 11 Trk CD
:: The Accidental ::
An engaging and pleasing album for fans of this genre, who’ll be easily pleased by the overall mood and quality of songs.

BACKFIRE AT THE DISCO * recommended *
14 April 2008 / 14th Floor Records / 4 Trk Remix CD
:: The Wombats ::
“Backfire At The Disco”, is a track like many in the band's repetoire, that once you’ve heard it, you certainly don’t forget about it.

BOX OF SECRETS
14 April 2008 / V2 / 11 Trk CD
:: Blood Red Shoes ::
Blood Red Shoes are less pretentious and altogether more energetic than their influences

ALLOTMENTS
14 April 2008 / Humble Soul / 14 Trk CD
:: Aidan Smith ::
The sound of the countryside were it based in Salford

LAUDANUM * EP of the week *
14 April 2008 / The Foreign Office / 5 Trk CD
:: Ursula Minor ::
Ursula find themselves nearer to the dark dreamy chasms of a brilliant first album Verve

BOB BROWN
14 April 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: Lotus Circle ::
Circus sounds from the Lotus Circle

BEING GOOD IS OK (BUT BEING BAD IS BETTER)
14 April 2008 / White Label / 3 Trk CD
:: Eureka Machines ::
They make the noise of a small army who’ve suddenly found their weapons replaced with the stock of Sound Control

FADED
14 April 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CD
:: My Captive Audience ::
Initially My Captive Audience sound like a very traditional indie rock band

FLEETING * demo of the week *
14 April 2008 / Demo / 6 Trk CDR
:: Fog Lights ::
A demo wracked with potential

FLUNKIES
14 April 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: The Deodates ::
It’s pretty much testament to their song writing abilities that “Flunkies” seems so memorable despite only one listen

CONSOLERS OF THE LONELY
14 April 2008 / XL / 14 Trk CD
:: The Raconteurs ::
Freak control to major jack...14 tracks of mellow, riffing music that will essentially appeal to the 40+ demographic.

DO IT! * album of the week *
14 April 2008 / Domino / 11 Trk CD
:: Clinic ::
Clinic it seems, are keeping their practice very much alive.

LIFE PROCESSES
14 April 2008 / Cooking Vinyl / 11 Trk CD
:: ¡Forward, Russia! ::
This is an album to be listened to, to invest in and to understand

I SUPPOSE
14 April 2008 / Dead Young Records / 3 Trk CD
:: Jonjo Feather ::
Nineteen year old Jonjo Feather brandishes what he calls “Other Other Pop

GET TO THE RIVER BEFORE IT RUNS LOW
07 April 2008 / Dangerbird / 5 Trk CD
:: Seawolf ::
Lilt and charm in equal measures with their hushed tones and deceptively bookish songs.

LOVELY ALLEN
07 April 2008 / Beggars Banquet / Young Turks / 5 Trk Promo available on 12” + 7” & Download
:: Holy Fuck ::
Canada’s Holy Fuck have produced a highlight album of 2007 yet seem strangely missing from the tipsters new years lists

COURTSHIP DATING
07 April 2008 / 2 Trk CD
:: Crystal Castles ::
A tortured sense of melody and a theme that dances around a kind of edgy New York club vibe

SHARKIES BONE SYMPHONY * unsigned single of the week *
07 April 2008 / 2 Trk CD
:: To The Bones ::
To The Bones are surely shaping up to be one of the regions newest and exciting outfits.

GET AWKWARD * album of the week *
07 April 2008 / XL / 15 Trk CD
:: Be Your Own Pet ::
Angry, precocious, aggressive and vigorous – God bless Nashville.

LAS VEGAS
07 April 2008 / White Label / 1 Trk CD
:: Green Man Says Go ::
When Green Man hit a few more killer tunes out of their hometown, then people might actually start to take notice.

MOUNTAIN BATTLES
07 April 2008 / 4 AD / 13 Trk CD
:: The Breeders ::
The Breeders provided some much needed soul food for those mourning the passing of the Pixies

HANG THEM ALL
07 April 2008 / XL / 1 Trk CD
:: Tapes n’ Tapes ::
Maybe one day their busking clatter may even appeal to much bigger crowds – it deserves to.

THE BE ALL AND END ALL
07 April 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CDR
:: Mercia Drift ::
Wakefield’s Mercia Drift sound a bit like a cross between Embrace and James

SHOP LOCAL
07 April 2008 / Concrete Recordings / 13 Trk CD
:: Orphan Boy ::
Orphan Boy drive out the traditional for their own rather flighty and ultimately angular brand of rock

JIM NOIR
07 April 2008 / My Dad / 13 Trk CD
:: Jim Noir ::
Such was the rise of Mr Noir that you couldn’t quite make it round Asda without one of his tunes emanating from their tannoys

MANCHASM * recommended *
07 April 2008 / Too Pure (Beggars) / 3 Trk CD
:: Future Of The Left ::
A superb outing from the former Jarcrew / McLuskey school of brilliance

DEATH TO THE INDIE DISCO
07 April 2008 / Kids / 2 Trk CD
:: Blah Blah Blah ::
Ironically Londoner’s Blah Blah Blah take great delight in ripping the mick out of the very places that this record may be played at

A MAD & FAITHFUL TELLING
07 April 2008 / Anti / 10 Trk CD
:: Devotchka ::
This album dwells even more on Devotchka's eastern European side

EVALINE
07 April 2008 / Demo / 5 Trk CDR
:: Luke Hirst ::
Luke is a solid song writer who can make a demo effort sound like a major label outing

COUPLES
07 April 2008 / Rough Trade / 10 Trk CD
:: The Long Blondes ::
Whilst the fashions that carried this band so far have dissipated, this re-write of their indie-pop template has left them somewhat marooned

DON’T WANNA DIE * album of the week *
07 April 2008 / Eye Industries / 12 Trk CD
:: My Federation ::
An accomplished and dazzling, spellbinding album

CLOSE YOUR EYES * recommended *
07 April 2008 / Regular Beat Recording Co. / 2 Trk CD
:: Alaska In Winter :: Marianne Dissard ::
A precious commodity indeed.

D.I.L.E.M.M.A
07 April 2008 / Dance To The Radio / 2 Trk 10” Vinyl
:: Grammatics ::
Grammatics have always struggled with their middle-class fop persona

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 07/04/08
07 April 2008 / Various Formats
:: Clocks :: Blood Red Shoes :: The Xcerts :: Merz :: Millencolin :: Hush The Many :: The Black Keys :: Camille :: St Vitus Dance :: Jefferson Pepper :: Avengingforce :: Autokratz :: Martin Harley Band :: Daniel Lanois :: Bullet For My Valentine:: The Lacarnos :: Kiko :: Frank Turner :: Loqui ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for 07/04/08

PASS FAIL
31 March 2008 / 11 Trk CD
:: Leander ::
Seems to borrow heavily from a range of British and French artists, interlacing loops and samples with the tasty hooklines of guitar and bass

HOMELESS MAN
31 March 2008 / Demo / 7 Trk CDR
:: Switchboard Spectacular ::
Beneath it all there’s an interesting and likeable quality to this bands songs.

A GOOD CAFÉ ON GEORGE STREET
31 March 2008 / Bad Sneakers / 1 Trk CD
:: The Rosie Taylor Project ::
A wistful, yet joyful foray of gently affirmative melodies

BEEPER
31 March 2008 / Domino / 1 Trk CD
:: The Count & Sinden ::
The chorus has come in again and I’m going to have to smash my CD player against the ….. (* bang! * )

LOOK!
31 March 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CDR
:: Morning Sparks ::
Sort of like Robert Plant aged 21 after listening to a slow Muse track and the Deep Elm back catalogue.

WHAT GOES AROUND
31 March 2008 / Demo / 2 Trk CDR
:: Optional Wallace ::
Another impressive outing from the iridescent Optionals.

UNOBTRUSIVE
31 March 2008 / Demo / 6 Trk CDR
:: John Herring ::
Accomplished display of his acoustic guitar playing and utilisation of dreamy effects

ACRES OF DEAD SPACE CADETS (album) / MEANWHILE IN HOLLYWOOD (single)
31 March 2008 / Brighton Electric / 11 Trk CD / 3 Trk CD
:: Elle Milano ::
A refreshingly new outlook on modern guitar pop.

COMFORT IN FEAR
31 March 2008 / Music To Bleed To / 11 Trk CD
:: Heroes Of Switzerland ::
Heroes of Switzerland exploit both lo-fi extremes and expansive stadium rock with little effort

OTHER CARS GO
31 March 2008 / Too Pure (Beggars) / 2 Trk CD
:: It Hugs Back ::
Flows along on effortless whispers, before the guitars spits out a flurry of pre-heart attack notes

WE MADE THIS OURSELVES *recommended*
31 March 2008 / Leaf / 10 Trk CD
:: Essie Jain ::
It’s that good, that warmly chilling, that comforting and that moving

CATCH OF THE DAY VOLUME 3 * album of the week *
31 March 2008 / 8 Trk CD
:: Various Artists ::
Kipper Records are back with another example of the ultimate DIY record

NOT NINETEEN FOREVER * record of the week *
31 March 2008 / Universal / A&M-Loog / 1 Trk CD
:: The Courteeners ::
There’s a certain pleasure to reviewing a Courteeners record these days.

MY BLOODY UNDERGROUND
31 March 2008 / Captains Of Industry / A Records-Cargo / 13 Trk CD
:: Brian Jonestown Massacre ::
I don’t know whether to love it or ponder whether Newcombe has his head stuck up his own backside

THIS EXPERIMENT REQUIRES YOU TO CONTINUE
31 March 2008 / UBiK Records / 9 Trk CDR
:: Stray Dog Café ::
The origins, background or indeed the age of Stray Dog Café are pretty much shrouded in mystery

ORACULAR SPECTACULAR
31 March 2008 / SonyBMG / 11 Trk CD
:: MGMT ::
An intriguing collage of sounds that sound satisfyingly familiar

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 31/03/08
31 March 2008 / Various Formats
:: Ungdomskulen :: Clinic :: Radiohead :: Camille :: Pennywise :: Kiki :: Lowgold :: Jaded Sun :: Slaves To Gravity :: New Adventures :: Felix Da Housecat :: Turbowolf :: Son Of Dave :: James Murray :: The Author ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for 31/03/08

STRANGE TIMES
24 March 2008 / V2 / 1 Trk CD
:: The Black Keys ::
A kind of lo-fi antidote to the polished product of many an American band

OUTPUT 1
24 March 2008 / Baby Boom / 12 Trk CD
:: Quietland ::
Stadium bound, searching hybrid of Seattle / MOR / New Rock sounds

AMERICA
24 March 2008 / 3 Trk CD
:: The Indelicates ::
A tune that sounds exactly like The Levellers first demo (maybe?)

CENTURY
24 March 2008 / Rough Trade / 1 Trk CD
:: The Long Blondes ::
There are big changes at the Long Blondes camp

THIS SONG IS ABOUT YOU
24 March 2008 / Warner / 6 Trk Remix CD
:: The Enemy ::
A cigarette lighter moment is another source of evidence of their versatility

HUMMINGBIRD
24 March 2008 / Warp / 1 Trk CD
:: Born Ruffians ::
A fitting home for the band’s rattling DIY sounds and excitable, almost pyrotechnic abilities

DON’T WANNA DIE * recommended *
24 March 2008 / Eye Industries / 1 Trk CD
:: My Federation ::
If only everyone made records like this, the world would be a much happier place.

ATTACK OF THE SOUND MARSHALLS
24 March 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CD
:: Sound Marshals ::
Guitars cascade beneath the appealing vocal skills of Chris Cox.

X MARKS DESTINATION * album of the week *
24 March 2008 / Southern Fried Records / 10 Trk CD
:: The Whip ::
Plug in, dance, get trashed and Whip it up.

TWENTY ONE
24 March 2008 / 679 / 11 Trk CD
:: Mystery Jets ::
An ear opening collection of slightly bizarre and intriguing songs.

MIDNIGHT BOOM * recommended *
24 March 2008 / Domino / 12 Trk CD
:: The Kills ::
This may just go to prove just how far ahead The Kills were five years ago

BRACE, BRACE
24 March 2008 / Urban Cow / 15 Trk CD
:: Chikinki ::
Chikinki always had an ear for a rollicking good tune

PICTURE HOUSE SOUL
24 March 2008 / CD Album
:: Watch This Fire Spread ::
Although from Sheffield, Watch This Fire Spread sound absolutely nothing like Arctic Monkeys or The Human League

JOYS OF SPRING
24 March 2008 / Humble Soul / 11 Trk CD
:: John Fairhurst ::
An album of skilled guitar work, brimming with prog mischief

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 24/03/08
24 March 2008 / Various Formats
:: Newton Faulkner :: Computer Club :: Sparkadia :: Paige :: The Martin Harley Band :: Gabriella Cilmi :: The Ike Reilly Assassination :: David Garrett ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for 24/03/08

SUPER SOAKED + BLACK HOLE
17 March 2008 / XL / 2 Trk 7” Vinyl Series (4 singles)
:: Be Your Own Pet ::
The nastier side of Nashville rules once again

SPINNING
17 March 2008 / Surbia / 2 Trk 7 “Vinyl + 2 Trk CD
:: Plenty ::
“Your new, old favourite band..” goes the PR

NINE IN THE AFTERNOON
17 March 2008 / Warner / Fueledbyramen / 1 Trk CD
:: Panic At The Disco ::
Panic At The Disco are one of those weird American bands that sounded big from their very first single

RESTLESS
17 March 2008 / !K7 / 1 Trk CD
:: Unkle ::
The pairing of James Lavelle-versus-Josh Homme is always going to be an attractive proposition

TELL HER TODAY
17 March 2008 / EMI / 1 Trk CD
:: Tom Baxter ::
Seems happy to soak in a Latino / Mediterranean influence as Baxter swoops over the tune, closely in unison with a bank of violins.

TROUBLE IN DREAMS
17 March 2008 / Rough Trade / 1 Trk CD
:: Destroyer ::
A pretty, innovative outing all round, combining much of his previous efforts with almost unexpected results

FOOTSTEPS
17 March 2008 / Memphis Industries / 1 Trk CD
:: Bricolage ::
Charming and effective stuff from Glasgow’s Bricolage

LAZY
17 March 2008 / !K7 / 2 Trk CD
:: Dels ::
Hot Chip are heavily involved in “Lazy” the debut from hip-hopper Del

DON’T LOOK BACK * recommended *
17 March 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: George Agan ::
George Agan has always pretty much worn his heart on his sleeve

TOO BUSY FOR FRAMING * demo of the week *
17 March 2008 / Demo / 10 Trk CD
:: Ben McGarvey ::
Accomplished album that twists alternative folk with the traditional, yet uses technology to compelling effect

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL ALAMO PART 7
17 March 2008 / Promo / 1 Trk CDR
:: This Is Seb Clarke ::
Lords of bombast and brass, you can imagine This Is Seb Clarke appearing on Jools Holland

INCHES album / PATTY LEE b\w THE SWEAT DESCENDS single * album of the week*
17 March 2008 / Wichita Recordings / 18 Trk CD (album) & 3 Trk CD (Single)
:: Les Savy Fav ::
A cohesive album of vinyl best bits plus another mind blowing single- yep, it's Mr Harrington and friends once more..

YES YES VINDICTIVE (album) + GET WHAT YOU WANT (single)
17 March 2008 / Brille / 12 Trk CD (album) + 2 Trk CD (single)
:: Operator Please ::
Operator Please, please with a fine angular chunk of bubblegum alt.indie

PRESUME TOO MUCH
17 March 2008 / Geffen / Gronland / 3 Trk CD
:: Merz ::
Beautiful, fly away music that melts in your ears

NIGHT RIPPER
17 March 2008 / Illegal Art / 16 Trk CD
:: Girl Talk ::
Gillis has a good stab at turning the sampling game on its head, with mixed results

TRASH
17 March 2008 / Southern Fried Records / 1 Trk CD
:: The Whip ::
The Whip don’t necessarily wanna be adored, they want to be trashed

CODA
17 March 2008 / 10 Trk CD
:: MIT ::
There’s definitely something non-commercial and innovative going on here

THE SELDOM SEEN KID * recommended *
17 March 2008 / Universal / Fiction - Polydor / 11 Trk CD
:: Elbow ::
“The Seldom Seen Kid” seems at last to be the perfect distillation of the very best of Elbow's traits.

ROCKFERRY
17 March 2008 / Universal / A&M / 10 Trk CD
:: Duffy ::
Duffy it seems is here to stay and for once talent seems to have won over marketing

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 17/03/08
17 March 2008 / Various Formats
:: Neon Neon :: The Maybes? :: Boy Kill Boy :: The Teenagers :: Taio Cruz :: Slaves To Gravity :: Chris T-T :: The Humanity :: Model Horror :: Moby :: The Elvis Suicide ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for 17/03/08

QUAGMIRE EP
10 March 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CDR
:: This Is My Lawnmower ::
If there’s one thing you can’t accuse This Is My Lawnmower of, it’s toeing the party line

PRETTY GIRLS
10 March 2008 / Yodel / 2 Trk CD
:: Josh Weller ::
Hurrah! A new champion!

REAL EMOTIONAL TRASH
10 March 2008 / Domino / 10 Trk CD
:: Stephen Malkmus (Solo / The Jicks) ::
Stephen Malkmus returns with his Jicks for his fourth solo outing

FEEBLE
10 March 2008 / Demo / 5 Trk CDR
:: Cookie Cutterr ::
“New Friend” is the kind of song you would play to someone you really hate

THE COLEOPTEROUS CUCKOOS COLLUDE
10 March 2008 / Red Deer Club / 18 Trk CD (Ltd 400 copies)
:: David A. Jaycock ::
Inventive material and performances from Jaycock

SIXES & SEVENS
10 March 2008 / Rough Trade / 20 Trk CD
:: Adam Green ::
Easy listening eloquently transferred to a world of country and new wave jangles

YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT YOU’RE GETTING YOURSELF INTO...
10 March 2008 / Virgin (EMI) / 10 Trk CD
:: Does It Offend You Yeah ? ::
A (short) album that actually does grow on you with each listen.

RAPID * recommended *
10 March 2008 / Because / 5 Trk Remix CD
:: Metronomy ::
Metronomy have always found themselves on the weirder side of the new disco scene

YOUNG LOVE
10 March 2008 / 679 / 10 Trk CD
:: Mystery Jets ::
Eel Pie Island’s Mystery Jets hook up with Laura Marling

YOU DON’T KNOW HOW TO LOVE * recommended *
10 March 2008 / Bad Sneakers / 2 Trk CD
:: The Old Romantic Killer Band ::
This outfit have rock n roll prog ambitions, without at all sounding like Jack & Meg

LOVE NO
10 March 2008 / Merok : XL / 1 Trk CD
:: The Teenagers ::
As their name suggests, The Teenagers are aiming for the world of poppy soundbites

I LUST U
10 March 2008 / Lex Records / 4 Trk Remix CD
:: Neon Neon ::
A dance / pop vehicle for DJ Boom Bip and SFA’s Gruff Rhys.

YOU CAN’T TAKE HIM ANYWHERE
10 March 2008 / 2 Trk CD
:: Friends Of The Bride ::
One look at the label and you know that you’re about to listen to something that's just a little differen

CLOCK EP
10 March 2008 / Wichita Recordings / 4 Trk CD
:: Simian Mobile Disco ::
It seems a new generation of synth heads are picking up the mantle of electroclash

THE BOYS WILL BE OUT FOR A FIGHT
10 March 2008 / Demo / 5 Trk CD
:: The Filthy Souls ::
You’d be forgiven for thinking that The Filthy Souls were a slice of the obvious - Far from it

HUMDRUM VIRTUE * album of the week*
10 March 2008 / Humble Soul / 8 Trk CD
:: Denis Jones ::
A kaleidoscope of sound that, one can only assume, was the inspiration for the Virtue part of the title

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 10/03/08
10 March 2008 / Various Formats
:: Akira The Don :: Jack Johnson :: The Cardigans :: The Turn :: Frank Turner :: Ida Maria :: Royworld :: The Kooks :: Kate Walsh :: Mark Ronson :: City & Colour :: Inner Party System :: Secret Handshake :: Kalliopi :: Gabriella Cilmi :: Estelle :: Flyleaf :: Look See Proof :: Kamera :: Utah Saints :: Milke :: Envy Corps :: Colin Macintyre :: Filthy Dukes :: The Metros :: The B-52s :: Robots In Dis ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for 10/03/08

CHEAP AND CHEERFUL
03 March 2008 / Domino / 1 Trk CD
:: The Kills ::
Two and a half minutes of rousing leftfield fuzz, synth and guitar work

OUT COME THE WOLVES
03 March 2008 / Echo (Universal) / 2 Trk CD
:: Jacob Golden ::
Jacob Golden sounds very much like Justin Haywood wild on mind bending drugs

MERCY
03 March 2008 / Universal / A&M / 1 Trk CD
:: Duffy ::
A hit well versed in retro rock and roll and the deep Motown sound of the 60’s

BROKEN BOYS WITH BROKEN TOYS
03 March 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CD
:: Redwire ::
Bradford's new blood rattle out a convincing demo

LIFE IS BORING
03 March 2008 / Kitsune / 3 Trk CD
:: Cazals ::
Something a little different though and maybe more interesting from Cazals

SEA LION
03 March 2008 / Memphis Industries / 10 Trk CD
:: The Ruby Suns ::
Definitely The Ruby Suns at their best even though the album can be a bit of trawl.

THE MYSTERY
03 March 2008 / Warner / 1 Trk CD
:: Doug Walker ::
With Dougs debut you can’t help but wish that he get himself established in the upper echelons of the charts.

SAY SCIENTIST * album of the week *
03 March 2008 / High Voltage / 6 Trk CD
:: The Maple State ::
There's something about Maple State's latest foray that just gives you goosebumps

SOMETHING BETTER
03 March 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: The Audibles ::
The more you listen to the Audibles record, the more you get out of it

THE PUNISHER OF IV30
03 March 2008 / Armellodie / 3 Trk CD
:: Cuddly Shark ::
Irreverent post rock music via the strains of abused, clean channel guitars

TOAST & MARMALADE
03 March 2008 / 2 Trk 7” Vinyl
:: Stardeath And White Dwarfs ::
A feverishly lush and staggeringly drug infused double header from Oklahoma

PUT YOUR HEART INTO THIS
03 March 2008 / Inhaler / 5 Trk CD
:: Above Them ::
West Yorkshire’s Above Them look towards Mid-America for their hard indie rock influences

IN AT THE DEEP END
03 March 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CD
:: The Dukes of Portland ::
The Dukes are back and Northwich’s finest seem to have cranked up the volume a bit

BLACK AND WHITE MASS
03 March 2008 / Pickled Egg / 27 Trk-CD
:: a.P.A.t.T ::
An album where happy sounds seem to be twisted into something altogether more nightmarish

SEMI-NORMAL * demo of the week *
03 March 2008 / Demo / 9 Trk CDR
:: Mr. Fist ::
Mr Fist are an instrumental band, delving into the deepest regions of noise and distortion

CROSSING THE RED SEA WITH THE ADVERTS LIVE AT THE CLUB
03 March 2008 / WDF Productions / 16 Trk Live DVD (54 mins) plus Interview & Solo Set
:: T.V. Smith & The Bored Teenagers ::
To some this may be a curiosity to others it will be a necessary celebration. T.V. Smith though, will be forever quoted in punk history.

SLEIGHT OF HEART
03 March 2008 / Full Time Hobby / 9 Trk CD
:: Malcolm Middleton ::
Another inviting and talented effort from MM

PICKING UP PIECES * single of the week *
03 March 2008 / White Label / 3 Trk CD : Limited Releases In Fopp Stores
:: Onions ::
More sublime melodies from our favourite vegetables

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 03/03/08
03 March 2008 / Various Formats
:: Levellers :: Vampire Weekend :: Fightstar :: Jimmy Eat World :: Sine Star Project :: Revere :: Billy Bragg :: Butterfly :: Taio Cruz :: Our Last Night :: Go_Audio :: Headway :: Lenny Kravitz ::
Summary & review of other interesting major released for 03/03/08

I’M A REALIST * recommended *
25 February 2008 / Wichita Recordings / 2 Trk CD
:: The Cribs ::
The Cribs have totally, well and truly, found their stride

JUST BECAUSE YOU SLEEP NEXT TO ME DOESN’T MEAN YOU’RE SAFE
25 February 2008 / Warner / 2 Trk CD
:: Gallows ::
Please Gallows, can you put “Orchestra Of Wolves” down now?

AFTER HOURS
25 February 2008 / !K7 / 1 Trk CD
:: We Are Scientists ::
We Are Scientists are very much in the throws of redesigning their sound

PICTURES FADE
25 February 2008 / Seduction Records / 4 Trk CD
:: Cocean ::
Cocean are from Barnsley, a town steeped in brass bands & Arthur Scargill

ROTTON HELL
25 February 2008 / City Slang / 1 Trk CD
:: Menomena ::
Already a live set highlight, “Rotten Hell” makes it off the album “Friend Or Foe”

LAST ONE STANDING
25 February 2008 / Vinyl Revival / 2 Trk CD
:: Rambo And Leroy ::
Exciting, broad , emotional rock on an ambitiously epic scale

HIGHNESS
25 February 2008 / Universal / A&M / 1 Trk CD
:: Envy & Other Sins ::
You might be seeking a much greater reward for being force fed the mumblings of Alex (nu-middle class) James and and the ever pouting Jo (where's the mirror?) Wiley.

IT’S MY OWN CHEATING HEART THAT MAKES ME CRY * joint single of the week *
25 February 2008 / Sane Man / 3 Trk CD
:: Glasvegas ::
Shatters any high frequency abilities that your ears may still have remaining

HOLD ON NOW, YOUNGSTER...
25 February 2008 / Wichita Recordings / 11 Trk CD
:: Los Campesinos! ::
“Hold On Now, Youngster..” is a bit like taking a sneaky look at a teenagers diary

FUNKY NASSAU – THE COMPASS POINT STORY 1980-1986
25 February 2008 / Universal / CD Album
:: Various Artists ::
Celebrating the work of Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records (who also helped pioneer Ska and Reggae) this album cherry picks some of Compass Point Studio’s output.

DO THE CIRCUS CIRCUS
25 February 2008 / Art Goes Pop / 3 Trk 7” Vinyl
:: James Severy At The Circus Circus ::
The intellectual humdrum of life day in, day out. A perfect slice of the everyday.

FASCINATION
25 February 2008 / EMI / Charisma / 1 Trk CD
:: Alphabeat ::
Is this an Aqua for the indie kid generation?

WE RULE THE WORLD (T.H.E.H.I.V.E.S.)
25 February 2008 / Polydor / 2 Trk CD
:: The Hives ::
The Hives have put Pharrell Williams behind the desk and the results are understandably funky

GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE * joint single of the week *
25 February 2008 / Polydor / Fiction / 1 Trk CD
:: Elbow ::
Something very special could be coming our way.

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 25/02/08
25 February 2008 / Various Formats
:: Scanners :: Ali Whitton :: Katie Melua :: Chris T-T :: Carl Craig :: Lenny Kravitz :: Twem :: Subliminal Girls :: Apocalyptica :: Cut Off You Hands :: Magic Wands :: Basia Bulat :: Black Tide ::
Joined up summary & review of other interesting major released up to w/c 25/02/08

SUSPICIOUS WIT
18 February 2008 / Deltasonic / 1 Trk CD
:: The Rascals ::
Rascals have got Liverpool running through the centre, like a stick of rock.

ALAS I CANNOT SWIM
18 February 2008 / Virgin (EMI) / 12 Trk CD
:: Laura Marling ::
Exceptional exercises in revealing Laura Marling’s truly capable talents

KYOTO
18 February 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CDR
:: Ayatana ::
Ayatana are strict purveyors of classic stoner heavy rock

WE ARE ROCK STARS
18 February 2008 / Virgin (EMI) / 3 Trk CD
:: Does It Offend You Yeah ? ::
fucking dance..why ? read on >>

HERETIC PRIDE
18 February 2008 / 4 AD / 13 Trk CD
:: The Mountain Goats ::
An album of edgy but compelling new age American folk

I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT THERE IS ALWAYS HOPE * recommended *
18 February 2008 / Abeano (Beggars) / 11 Trk CD
:: I Was A Cub Scout ::
A pretty astounding collection of ethereal, synth driven rock songs

KYTE
18 February 2008 / Kids / 7 Trk CD
:: Kyte ::
Does the world need another Sigur Rós ?

TOKYO MOON
18 February 2008 / Melodic / 2 Trk 7” Vinyl, Download
:: Windmill ::
Full-bodied pop jaunt that mingles urban poetry with positive prose

THE DERBY RAM
18 February 2008 / On The Bone Records / 2 Trk 7” Vinyl
:: Benjamin Wetherill ::
Class material from the dark side of the Pennines.

PART FIVE * recommended *
18 February 2008 / White Label / 2 Trk CDR
:: AOMC ::
AOMC are more pre-occupied with tasty hooklines and off kilter handbrake turns, than the more mundane chore of just writing a pop song.

THE SECOND EP
18 February 2008 / Beggars Banquet / Young Turks / 6 Trk CD
:: Kid Harpoon ::
His initial outing setting a bit of benchmark - here's #2

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN * album of the week *
18 February 2008 / Pickled Egg / 12 Trk CD
:: Suzy Mangion ::
A spectacularly wonderful range of vocal cuts and rather amazing tunes make this Mangion’s finest hour.

SHOOTING CABIN SONGS
18 February 2008 / Red Deer Club / 10 Trk CD
:: George Thomas And The Owls ::
Strangely different and disturbingly compelling >>

ALONE IN MUSIC * recommended *
18 February 2008 / We Hate You / 9 Trk CD & Downloads
:: The Forest ::
There’s no hint whatsoever that the ideas are running out at the Forest farm

REPLICAS REDUX * recommended *
18 February 2008 / Beggars Banquet / 2 x (14+13 Trk ) CD
:: Gary Numan :: Tubeway Army ::
Classic Re-issue : Replicas finds Numan and Tubeway Army moving away from the cliché of post punk pub rock and delving heartily into a whole new world of science fiction

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 18/02/08
18 February 2008 / Various Formats
:: Adele :: Herzoga :: Stars :: Paramore :: Bullet For My Valentine :: Goldenboy :: This Is Pop :: Fabonacci :: Kenneth Ishak ::
Detailed summary & review of other interesting major released up to w/c 18/02/08

THE ESSENTIAL
11 February 2008 / Demo / 21 Trk CDR
:: Picnic Area ::
Chewing through 21 cuts of rambling noise can be a rather disturbing experience

LUCKY
11 February 2008 / City Slang / 11 Trk CD
:: Nada Surf ::
Nada Surf are a band forever battling against their own excellence

VAMPIRE WEEKEND *recommended *
11 February 2008 / XL / 11 Trk CD
:: Vampire Weekend ::
New York based minimalistic indie, flavoured by the kind of music that could calm down even a later day Andy Kershaw in full stalking mode

DARK LANE
11 February 2008 / We Hate You Records / 11 Trk CD
:: Andrew Rowley ::
Rowley to those in the know, is the talented driving force behind Yacht Club

FOR ALL YOUR INVENTIONS
11 February 2008 / White Label / 12 Trk CD
:: Speed Hearse ::
A brilliantly constructed home made release from Speed Hearse

LIKE THE TIDES * recommended *
11 February 2008 / White Label / 4 Trk CD
:: Rachael Kichenside ::
Devastatingly pretty clockwork acoustica

PEOPLE LIKE PEOPLE LIKE YOU
11 February 2008 / Everyonelable / 6 Trk CD
:: Spokes ::
A distant violin tries to break through the ringing crunch of guitar strings that posture on the point of a barrage

ALLIANCE * single of the week *
11 February 2008 / Surbia / 2 Trk CD / 7” Vinyl
:: Air Cav ::
True love requires few words..

SAFETY IN NUMBERS
11 February 2008 / Demo / 2 Trk CD
:: Toaster Razzu ::
Twisted Sheff based punk rock..

Kitsune Maison COMPILATION 5
11 February 2008 / 17 Trk CD
:: Various Artists ::
Any Kitsune compilation is pretty much like getting a bit of an early Christmas present

T-REX
11 February 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CD
:: The Endorphins ::
They’re from Manchester and they make a racket

STARTED A FIRE
11 February 2008 / Universal / 10 Trk CD
:: One Night Only ::
One Night Only nervously avoid being labelled the New Kooks – thank god – via an upbeat taste for flamboyant pop rock

HLLLYH
11 February 2008 / Moshi Moshi / 14 Trk CD
:: The Mae-Shi ::
Strangely “HLLLYH” becomes more compelling with each crazy spin

HARPSICHORD TREACLE
11 February 2008 / Wonderful Sound / 11 Trk CD
:: The Superimposers ::
The Superimposers may have just unleashed one of the sleeper albums for 2008

PICKING UP PIECES * recommended *
11 February 2008 / White Label / 3 Trk CD : Limited Releases In Fopp Stores
:: Onions ::
Sublime melodies are passed between the band members like a shared “cigarette”.

GOD I AM
11 February 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: King Coma ::
Ireland’s King Coma are certainly on a mission

THIS CITY HOLDS US ALL EP * hot pick *
11 February 2008 / Tough Love / 4 Trk CD
:: The Situationists ::
Four excellent tracks from a band who offer a complex, melodic theme to modern living – big things should beckon

LIGHTHOUSE
11 February 2008 / Demo / 1 Trk CD
:: Speed Circus ::
Merry-go-round of guitars and rousing oompah’s of fairground rock and roll.

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 11/02/08
11 February 2008 / Various Formats
:: I Was A Cub Scout :: Singles :: NiTasha Jackon :: 1984 :: Bob Mould ::
Detailed summary & review of other interesting major released up to w/c 11/02/08

NEVER GET SICK OF THE SEA
04 February 2008 / Universal / 1 Trk CD
:: Attic Lights ::
Their debut album is out in early summer and it’s certainly going to be on my radar,glasgow

BEGGAR MAN
04 February 2008 / Demo / 4 Trk CDR
:: Nolan 1 ::
The disintegration of The Second Floor is somewhat compensated for by the first solo material from former frontman Nolan Watkinson

WHO’S GOT A MATCH?
04 February 2008 / 14th Floor Records / 2 x 7” Vinyl, CD & Download
:: Biffy Clyro ::
Enough terraced fuelled sing-a-longs and a suitably explosive closure, to burn the hairs off the back of your neck

YOU BRING ME DOWN
04 February 2008 / V2 / 1 Trk CD
:: Blood Red Shoes ::
Shouty, anthemic, blistering and full of deliciously sustained rock guitar chords

I LIKE WHAT YOU SAY
04 February 2008 / City Slang / 1 Trk CD
:: Nada Surf ::
Matthew Caws’ voice is as ever sublime

FOR TONIGHT ONLY
04 February 2008 / 13 Trk CD
:: Plastic Toys ::
Over thirteen tracks Plastic Toys maybe try out every possible heavy rock influence along the way.

TWO TIMES
04 February 2008 / 2 Trk CD
:: The Blakes ::
Another relative coup for Light In The Attic who gave us the amazing Black Angels last year.

LOWLIFE
04 February 2008 / Dim Mak / 3 Trk CD
:: Scanners ::
London’s Scanners come from the school of frugal guitar lines and 4/4 drum beats

LUCKY JACK
04 February 2008 / Brew Records / 2 Trk CD
:: i concur ::
Highbrow lo-fi anyone?

DO IT BETTER
04 February 2008 / Domino / 2 Trk CD
:: Correcto ::
Not a call to improve on your computing skills, but rather an urgent barrage of post punk, guitar grinding

HEART OF GLUE
04 February 2008 / Robot! Records / 2 Trk CD
:: Man From Michael ::
Man From Michael, hail from Merseyside

CONTROVERSY
04 February 2008 / !K7 / Rapster/ 13 Trk CD
:: Various Artists ::
Entirely appropriate and extremely well constructed tribute to the purple one

MONSTRE COSMIC
04 February 2008 / Too Pure (Beggars) / 10 Trk CD
:: Monade ::
A dark, but markedly upbeat collection of romantic and wistful songs

RADIO
04 February 2008 / Demo / 3 Trk CDR
:: Lookout Joe ::
Potential is rife within the trio’s repertoire but maybe this isn’t the record to prove it

COPENHAGEN
04 February 2008 / Maid In Sheffield / 1 Trk CD
:: Helen Boulding ::
An air of romance and sophistication that transcends any folky, singer / songwriter scene

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP :: Other Releases W/C 04/02/08
04 February 2008 / Various Formats
:: 30 Seconds To Mars :: Korn :: The Charlatans :: The Mars Volta :: One Night Only :: The Duke Spirit :: Nirvana :: Undercut :: The Brute Chorus :: Those Dancing Days :: Matt Costa :: Eastern Conference Champions :: Olympic Lifts :: Khamer 45 ::
Detailed summary & review of other interesting major released up to w/c 04/02/08

CLUB THING * recommended *
28 April 2007 / Island / 1 Trk CD
:: Yoav ::
Quite brilliant and no doubt chart bound.