Reviews

Live At Leeds Festival Review

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The first event on the festival calendar saw a multitude of British and international bands and artists descend to a number of venues across a sunny Leeds on Saturday, with an expansion of sounds fitting the bill – from chart topping electronic with strings quartet, Clean Bandit to two-man rock duo, Royal Blood, both drawing massive crowds.

“Aren't there a lot of bands that sound like the toilet music”, says a man commenting on Nation of Shopkeepers choice of bathroom music, saying “I’m into my experimental electronic music but this just sounds like Fuck Buttons”.

Three-piece ‘NME Radar’ guitar band, Blaenavon, drew an unexpectedly busy crowd to cool bar-come-gig-venue, Nation of Shopkeepers, with an early 1pm set. Performing tracks from their Koso E.P, the young and impressive trio sound like a mix of Maccabees-esque gliding riffs in Prague, which are contrasted with the emotive Wu Lyf-like atmosphere in tracks, Gods, and Wunderkind. With just a handful of songs under their belt, an album is surely in the pipeline for the talented Hampshire trio.

Swiftly pacing across the city to catch Wet’s debut visit to the UK at cool underground venue, The Hifi Club, the Brooklyn trio supply futuristic dream-pop for the Soundcloud and Apple Mac generation. Performing the entirety of their debut Dreams E.P, they mix the electronic synths of Chvrches with the chilled out melancholic storytelling of The XX. Set opener, "Don’t Wanna Be Your Girl" and new track "Bad Idea" showcase singer, Kelly Zutrau’s effortless crystal vocals before she explains to the music-savvy crowd: “This is out first time in Leeds and in the UK – we’re having a lot of fun." Dreams and No Lie, also of the E.P, create a swaying, breezy fantasy atmosphere before penultimate single, You’re The Best, which is currently receiving daytime support on Radio One from Fearne Cotton and Zane Lowe. With added house synths, it receives an impressive reaction with most of the crowd singing along – it’s sure to be a future hit, especially with the major label bidding war which is currently engulfing Wet’s futuristic R&B productions.

Next up, London based Gengahr performed to a busy crowd at the Belgrave Centre. With pitch-shifted vocals sounding similar to Unknown Mortal Orchestra, this is one of their first live shows. Summery foot-tapper, She's A Witch is a perfect indie track which sees the floppy haired young singer bop on the spot. Huw Stephens supported single, Fill My Gums With Blood, sounds sweet and soft despite the grizzly connotations of the tracks title. Clocking in at just 20 minutes, it’s a short-but-sweet set of endearing and exciting tracks – hopefully we’ll hear more from Gengahr in time for the summer.

SFG take an hour break to recharge batteries (physical and phones) before arriving back at the Hifi club to see electronic producer, Tourist who has recently toured with Disclosure play a late afternoon set. His blend of chill-wave house and electronica translates well to a packed, mixed-age crowd. William Philips aka Tourist introduces himself, saying: "I'm Tourist, I haven’t been here for a while, and it’s nice to be back”, before building electronic synths silence whispered murmurs in the crowd. Opening with Lies, a crowd pleasing remix of popular Glasgow synth-poppers, Chvrches, it’s a clever start. It could be expected that Tourist’s house beats and bass popping grooves are more night time friendly but the crowd still seem to still love it. Meanwhile, William energetically bops around behind his synth touch-pad and laptop. Later, I Can't Keep Up and Together from the new Patterns E.P bring him the biggest crowd of the day so far, with people still piling in during the last song. The penultimate track, a remix of Haim’s, The Wire, which featured on the LA sisters deluxe album ignites a carnival like energy with Jamie XX-like percussion beats soaring through the room before final E.P title track, Patterns ends the impressive set. With impressive sets like this one, Tourist’s atmospheric, forward-thinking sound will sit perfectly at outdoor festivals this summer. Make sure to catch him at one.

Darlia, who perform to a busy Cockpit crowd at the other end of the city, are three young lads from Blackpool making Nirvana influenced 90’s rock revival – lead singer Nathan Day, even looks like Kurt Cobain. Pronounced by Radio 1’s Playlist boss Nigel Harding, as “the most exciting new guitar band in the UK”, it’s difficult to argue against the statement. Playing a 30-minute set of heavy guitars and drums, they sound a lot heavier live than on record. Animal Kingdom and the infectious Queen of Hearts, the latter harkening to the sound of Smells Like Teen Spirit. Later, the audience revel in joining in for the chorus of current single Candyman, which translates far rawer, grittier and scuzzier in a live environment. The sweaty and loud, Cockpit is the perfect venue for their rock ‘n’ roll barrage to really make you take notice before they hit the big-time with a slot booked at Leeds Festival in August.

Two-piece rock outfit, Royal Blood, who have just announced a support slot on The Pixies US tour, attracted the biggest crowd of the day, with the queue stretching far beyond the confines of Leeds Metropolitan Univeristy, where the duo were unleashing their faultless energy. SFG were even lucky to get in, with press restricted to a one-in-one-out rule. New single, Come On Over’s heavy riffs make it sound as though there at least four band members before the singles Little Monster and Out of the Black encourage a circle pit in the crowd centre. Royal Blood really are the next big thing, ever since their NME Award Show and SXSW slots, they've multiplied in fans wanting to see them.

Running over half hour late due to technical problems, R&B crooner/ rapper Raleigh Ritchie, says they must keep the set quite short but doesn't let that dampen his spirit. He bounces across the stage telling engaging stories of growing up and gaining independence in Stronger Than Ever and Freefall, the latter about being sad in a cit. Later, before Keep It Simple, Raleigh tells his debut album will be out by the end of the year. Ending with set highlight, 2013 single, Bloodsport, the technical problems have been forgotten and he’s managed to captivate the crowd with an emotive, ‘give it your all’ vocal performance.

Later, Circa Waves expectedly pack out The Cockpit with a circle pit ensuing ten minutes in to the set during popular single Good For Me. Catch My Breath sounds like if The Vaccines stamping choruses met Vampire Weekend’s catchy indie riffs. The upbeat indie-pop of Stuck in My Teeth and Fossils quickly follow, before frontman Keiran Shuddall teases the crowd saying: "It's been very special for us – anyone going to Leeds festival? Well see you there.”

Chart-topping electronic with classical strings quartet Clean Bandit, headlined the 02 Academy with an important hour set, justifying their soon-to-be big name festival headlining status. Chilled openers, Rihanna and A&E impress with effortless guest vocals. It’s been a long time coming for them, but the success of Rather Be, which stole the top of the charts for a month is set to be followed up by new single, Extraordinary – both of which get an outing tonight. The Cambridge-graduates fit the large stage perfectly with colourful visuals of their EP covers placed neatly behind the set while pulsing house beats move the crowd throughout new track, Heart on Fire. Older tech-house track, Mozart’s House asks the question whether electronic music is boring? Certainly not, judging from tonight’s crowd who lap up every chart ready track. Later, Nightingale is mixed into the deep-house Gorgon City remix before they mix things up with their own rendition of Show Me Love. Clean Bandit are impossible to dislike, fusing every genre of music into their own concoction of strings, house, pop and R&B, their live shows have become a phenomenal spectacle.

Catering for the masses with a range of acts across a multitude of genres and a friendly atmosphere throughout, Live At Leeds, showcased new bands in their prime, most of which will be playing big-player, Reading & Leeds Festival – be sure to catch them there!

Photos by Heather Berrisford

Big Top 2014 Review

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After a week of rain I was prepared with my wellies and raincoat, but on the morning of Big Top the sun was shining and it was time to get the sunglasses out. Before doors had even opened at 11am, hundreds of people were at Stoneham Park in Hampshire ready to party for 12 hours. Junk Department’s first year of putting on this festival attracted nearly 5000 party goers, with attendees travelling from up and down the country for this unique event.

Luca Pilato kept the crowd lively, whilst dance floor thumping sets came from electronic music’s finest talent including Dyed Soundorom, Laura Jones and Maya Jane Coles. The vibe of the Big Top was insane, with the crowd constantly dancing.  The VIP section had a separate stage headlined by Flashmob. It also had a free bar which ran out of cups and mixers half way through the day, but the festival goers were kept happy with shots of vodka until more supply arrived. As the sun came down, Jamie Jones hit the Big Top to a capacity filled tent ending the day on a high. The sound system and lighting production was phenomenal, with fire pyrotechnics adding to the intensity of the Big Top. There could have been a wider selection of food options around the festival; however the fairground rides provided some outside entertainment. There is definitely lots of potential for Big Top to expand next year and become an annual party on the South coast. With early-bird tickets selling at £25, it was well and truly worth the money and is definitely one to look out for next year.

 

Photos by Mickey Cole

Lacey At Bedford Esquires Review

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It was impossible not to notice the depth of people standing around outside the two quite frankly enormous tour buses parked in the venue of Bedford Esquires, as I arrived to interview and review the quartet band LACEY, who are with America's Patent Pending, and People on Vacations spring break tour.

The atmosphere was exceptionally charged for a Sunday night event, and the small but fabulous venues floor soon started reverberating with the sounds of some truly talented guitar playing.

Lacey's lead vocalist Grazz makes the crowd welcome with easy banter, and the set opens to a cracking start with Won’t be the last time, and Hometown, which is featured on their current EP Outlaws.

Effortlessly charming and clearly exceptionally talented, the band make full use of the small stage, with crystal clear lyrics and exquisite timing, clearly comfortable that under the lights and in front of the crowd is where they belong

A fan hitches up her skirt to show me the tattoo of the 4 fresh faced Nottingham Lacey boys, forever etched onto her skin and I can’t help but feel like their loyal and ever growing fan base are equally aware that they are witnessing the beginnings of something that potentially is about to become very big indeed. 

Lacey don’t fit comfortably into one genre, the music is clearly very important and although alternative or pop/ rock would probably be the safest description, they demand a wider audience than the description allows. A few songs in and I found myself slightly in awe wondering how long it will be until I hear the news that they are headlining somewhere phenomenal. 

Throughout the set the boys take the opportunity to thank Patent Pending and People on Vacation for having them of the UK tour. It’s clearly a beautiful combination of talent and when Joe Ragosta, the lead vocalist for Patent Pending, joins them on stage its clear to see the bond between them all.

From above the stage I watch the band close their short set with the single Reach Out from their upcoming Album. I’m balancing precariously trying to take a photograph from above, but my body doesn’t want to stay still to the music. The beats are enchanting and the vocals come easily, they really don’t have to try too hard to be good, its obvious that its a natural position for them. With a final farewell the crowd shows huge appreciation for the band, one fan so keen to acknowledge their obvious sex appeal that she throws her bra onto the stage. The bands influences may well be the Long Island music scene but they stand tall in a class of their own, and if I was able to I would take the next few days off and bask in the energy of their tour whilst listening to the sound of magic in the making.

The Ep Outlaws is on sale now. Lacey official Uk is the best place to be able to listen to Lacey and you can listen to a free download of Laceys single from the album via this link  : https://soundcloud.com/laceyofficialuk/reach-out/s-esoz8

Prior to the show I had the opportunity to put some questions to the boys about their band, the tour and future plans.

Where did the band name Lacey originate from?

(Grazz) We all grew up listening to a band called Brand New from Long Island whose lead vocalist is called Jesse Lacey so we guess it was a nod of acknowledgement in that direction.

Whats the bands history/ Where did you all meet?

(Grazz Pete and Josh )We all moved the Nottingham together for University and have placed together as Lacey for 3 years. Three of us went to the same school and other band names include Nevertheless and Erica Black.

Has anything happened on the tour that really stands out? 

(Grazz and Josh ) During the Manchester gig Josh nearly killed Joe Ragosta from Patent Pending. When Joe came on to sing the bring to one of our tracks Josh spun around with his guitar and accidentally impailed him with his guitar. 

What have you been listening to in your cars recently?

(Josh) We have had the new You Me at Six Album; Cavalier Youth album playing a lot, also Manchester based The1975. (Pete) We have also been listening to Mallory Knox and still listen to bands such as Taking Back Sunday.

Did you learn your instruments as kids?

(Pete, laughing) Myself and Grazz grew up together as kids and we actually decided that we wanted to be in a band before we could play anything. So we decided that one of us would buy as guitar and the other one would buy a bass and we used to write songs and play whilst we were still learning. 

Do you write all your own music and lyrics?

(Pete) Yeah always, from day one. Josh will come with a guitar riff and we will all just play around with it. 

(Josh) We have a structure that just works, Grazz writes all the lyrics and we kind of work backwards in the sense that that’s the last thing we do. It just kind of builds layer by layer. We have always been really adamant that the music is really melodic and not just a repeat of the same few chords.

The artwork on your EP is quite unusual where did it come from?

(Grazz) Dave designed it as he is also a graphic designer so I shall let him explain

(Dave ) The EP is called outlaw because of Nottinghams connections with robin hood. There is a very old Latin Law that defines an outlaw as someone one who wears a wolfs head, hence thats where the wolf came from for the artwork.

Whats the plan for the next 12 months?

(Grazz / Pete) Albums next, we are beck into the studio in early June to finish working on the album, the teaser which is called Reach out is a teaser from the Album which was available as a download from the 21st April. Its probably a good indication of what the album is going to be like, bigger and more atmospheric. We hope to play further tours at the back end of the year to do our own shows and gig as much as possible. 

Miami Ultra Music Festival 2014 Review

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Ultra Music Festival

It was the Summer Festival Guide's first time at Miami's Ultra Music Festival and after last years amazing show and live video streams we were quite exicted to be there. Some of the biggest acts in the world play together at elbow's distance away at multiple different beautifully crafted stages. Miami Ultra has a range of different environments to excite and encourage your music pallet. The Iconic Main Stage has to be the most impressive but with stages like the live Amphitheatre and smaller stages like the UMF radio stage surrounded in Palm trees and lit with the glow of the high rise apartments surrounding BayFront Park there is something for everyone. 

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It was incredible to see how buzzed the locals and people attending the festival were yesterday. Just like being part of the live video stream but watching it from the ground rather than helicopter or flying in by speedboat down the coast. The main stage filled very quickly starting with The Chainsmokers known for their sweeping record “SELFIE” seen all over the internet and through apps like VINE and Instagram. 

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ShowTek and LaidBack Luke played early in the afternoon after doors opened at 3PM and the main arena quickly filled.  Some of the most daring outfits and Slinky style EDM costumes covered in friend share beads to exchange to people they come into contact with were proudly on display and is something that is ingrained in Electronic Dance Music (EDM) now. Appearances from Sean Paul and Major Lazer was a surprise, performing songs from 2002 “Gimme the light”

Miami Ultra festival looks best during the dusk hours of the evening as light drops and the vibrancy of the stages is know to all Miami. The sun sets through the skyline and projects an orange glow over the main crowd arena area, Projectors light up the Intercontinental Miami Hotel overlooking the Bay Front. Big names one after the other hit the stages all round, causing the crowds to go insane and hustle to see their favourite artists.  The energy is infectious and the fire and CO2 cannons create an incredible universe to saturate your senses, bouncing hands, one man in a wheel chair lifted to the crowds, the energy is that of the festival, electric! 

Being Miami, you can only expect great weather and Friday & Sunday this year both had a massive amount of sun, and left many feeling a little red in the mornings after, UMF (Ultra Music Festival) are very health conscious and during set changes at the main stage they do remind people to pace themselves and to drink plenty of water. 

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News which hit everyone on Saturday afternoon projected through the UMF App was that Avicii who was set to play as the headline act on day two (Saturday Night) was in hospital and was to be replaced by the bright eyed trickster DeadMau5. Avicii suffered from health issues after he had been in pain again after initially seeking medical advise days before. Tim Bergling (Avicii) needed to return to hospital because the pain became too much to carry through his set Avicii is now set to have his Gall Bladder removed in a low risk surgical operation. 

Replacement Joel Thomas Zimmerman aka DeadMau5's set that Saturday made for more music news, after trolling on Martin Garrix and his number 1 single “Animals” and replacing the drop with “Old McDonald had a Farm”.  With the hook on repeat, Deadmau5 came out from behind the desk to cheer on the crowds. Zimmerman was extremely enthusiastic about how much he enjoyed “that” song.. (referencing “Old McDonald” instead of “Animals” by Martin Garrix).

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Playing through on Saturday and Sunday on the live stage know as the Amphitheatre, organised by Live Nation acts like Dizzee Rascal playing “Bonkers”, Example “All the wrong places”, Chase and Status and Basement Jaxx played to which compared to the UK and Europe where they would normally be surrounded by thousands of people. This intimate stage seated around 500 this meant you could get up close and personal with your favourite rapper or DJ. 

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Still to come was the ever popular and quirky Mr David Guetta coming on penultimate Sunday at 9:40PM smashing an entrance with “My Freedom” and introducing the crowd to a new track called (Ten Feet Tall Culture Code Remix which Guetta remixed for Afrojack). You can imagine this brought a serious amount of fire and raised hands! This Mix can be listened to from the Live feed recorded that night here… 

HardWell was set to take the lime light for the finale of the 2014 UMF Main stage. Starting slow like an introduction to a thriller movie, the built up gave you shivers and made your hair stand on end. Starting with an unidentified mix to build up and then dropping into the familiar but harder version of “My Freedom” got the crowd energised once more. Not that Miami Ultra fans ever seem to stop bouncing and dancing, his set featured “Dare You (Cash Cash Remix)” slowing into drums and percussion mixes then the boss of base hit everyone with a remixed version of Calvin Harris & Alesso’s “Under Control” To conclude another impressive year in Miami, Hardwell ended with an incredible song “Spaceman” which was one of my highlights. As he came to the front to thank everyone for an incredible year and for sharing it with him, Ultra send the Miami crowd crazy with an impressive set of fireworks, fire and the consistent cheering of a strong global crowd.  Well done Ultra Music Festival, we can't wait to get back their next year.

For those in Europe, Ultra Europe hits Croatia this July, get your tickets now! 

Photography by James Bridle

www.James-Bridle.co.uk 

Takedown Twenty 14 Review

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I arrived at the site at just gone 12:30, people were queuing all the way up the courtyard of the venue waiting to get there wrist bands. 

Exploring the venue I found myself watching a band called The Smoking Hearts at the Southampton Intro Stage. The Smoking Hearts, A 5 piece rock and roll band from London UK. During there set they interacted with the crowd threw each song asking if everyone was enjoying their day so far. Their performance was all round very tight, sound and vocals where clear and sounded great, they also were really getting into it as a band, head banging, bouncing around. Was a smallish crowd, maybe 50 odd people watching but from what I could see everyone was enjoying it including myself. If you’re into your punk/rock and roll this is defiantly a band to look out for, music can be found at  www.store.bombermusic.com and also Checkout there Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/thesmokinghearts.

Next stop for me was to go a watch the awesome Heart In Hand at the Uprawr Stage. Heart In Hand are a Melodic Hardcode band from the South coast. Charlie (vocalist) sporting shorts and short sleeved shirt, with all his tattoo’s on show, the bands all round stage presents was great, all of the constantly moving around. The sound and vocals were tight and so clear. Crowd going completely mental mosh pits, odd crowd surf, everyone singing along to their songs and just all round loving the music. Between each song Charlie interacted with the crowd asking how everyone was and if they were enjoying their day so far and going to party. Through part of the set Charlie got into the crowd and got people to sing in microphone. I really enjoyed this band thought they sounded great live and had a fantastic stage presents and looked like they really enjoyed themselves as well as the crowd loving it.

After their set I managed to catch up with Charlie Holmes (Vocalist) for a chat and asked a couple of questions.

  • Biggest influences? (Charlie) “Generally it has to be life in general, also the band are big Deftone fans, even though we don’t sound like them really like their music, also liking the band Underoath even though they aren’t around anymore”.
  • Biggest achievement as a band? “Its probably playing Download Festival this year, we’re all looking forward to that”. Where do you see yourselves in say 5 years? “Who knows really, guess we’ll keep writing music till we can’t anymore, we’ve just finished recording our third album and going to working on the fourth soon, so that really”.
  • Favourite venue you guys have ever played? “We’ve played some massive venue in Europe that we can’t think the name of but they’ve been great, I really like The Joiners in Southampton, I prefer smaller venues there lot more intermit and lot more fun”.
  • Where are you guys most likely to be on a day off? “In bed normally”
  • When on tour who/what do you miss the most? “Erm… it’s got to be my Girlfriend, three of us in band have girlfriends so it’s defiantly got to be them”
  • I guess they don’t come on tour with you then? “No not really, two of our girlfriends are here today though, and it’s my girlfriends birthday”.
  • What are the plan’s for this year, album/shows/tours? “Well we just finished our latest album but can’t say when its out or what it’s called, we were meant to be touring but that’s been dropped sadly but hopefully come end of the year we’ll have something, atm it’s just Download Festival”.

Heart In Hand can be found at www.facebook.com/heartinhandukmh there are links to there web store, twitter and music.

Next band to watch on my list was a band called Idiom on the Uprawr Stage. Idiom are an Alternative Metal band from Exeter, they’ve shared the stage with such bands as Devildriver, 36 Crazyfists, Skindred and tons more. Crowd all cheering as they walk on stage and start there set. After their first song the crowd really get into it as do the band, they all sync head banged and bouncing around the stage, at one point the vocalist gets into the crowd and gets them to sing along in the mic. Towards the end of the set a rubber blow up shark was thrown onto the stage where the vocalist picks up and swings around before throwing back into the crowd, lot of crowd interaction between songs. Was all round a great set and everyone enjoyed themselves? Before the set I managed to catch up with the band for a small Q&A. 

  • Biggest influences? “Erm.. We don’t really have one, we should come up with one as a group really. Deftones we all really like them”.
  • How long have you all known each other? “We all grew up together in the same village and three of us went to the same high school just different years”
  • So you all get along really well, don’t annoy each other or anything? “Nah we all get along pretty well” (Dan) “No one would want to annoy me, haha”.
  • Biggest challenge as a band? “Coming from Devon, as it’s so far out the way of everything, getting to places can be a pain”
  • Do people back home support you guys a lot? “Yeah, back home we’ve got a pretty big following, they come to our shows so we hope they like our music”.
  • Favourite venue you’ve ever played? “HMV Forum was pretty amazing, Nottingham Rock City was awesome, Underworld London is always a fun and intense one”.
  • If you could describe your band in three words what would they be? "Fun, energetic and different”.
  • Anything big happening for you guys this year? “We’ve got our EP’s coming out this year and also we’ve got tour in May”.

Idioms music can be found threw there facebook page which is www.facebook.com/pages/IDIOM/12224761257

While walking around the venue I came across a band called Heart of a Coward. They’re a metal band from Milton Keynes, with influences such as Deftones, Pantera, The Acacia Strain, etc… While watching this band I was sat on the balcony looking down at the crowd and band, everywhere you looked people where moshing, pitting and having a good time. Lead singer Jamie Graham was wearing camo, cargo shorts and vest, with all his tattoos on show. During the song Deadweight Jamie asked the crowd to all put their arms round each other’s shoulders and the whole crowd erupted into song, singing back the lyrics. All the band got into it sync head banging and bouncing around the stage, also between songs talking to everyone in crowd. The music was tight and clear, I really enjoyed this band and would love to see them again. Music and other info on the band can be found at www.facebook.com/heartofacoward

Throughout the day I caught up with couple other bands to have a chat and Q&A. I had a chat with two of the guys from Yashin. They are a post-hardcore band from Scotland, formed in Greenock near Glasgow. I spoke with Harry (Screamer) and Kevin (Singer).

  • Biggest influences? (Harry) “It’s all really spread out to be honest, from like Limp Bizket to Deftones, so heavy side of things” (Kevin) “ I really like Panic at the Disco and Fall Out Boy”
  • Biggest challenge? (Kevin) “I lost my voice a little while back, so that was pretty hard” (Harry) “Being in a band is pretty hard, but also the best thing in the world”
  • Favourite venue you’ve ever played? “Err Rock City was good, but also ones in Europe, Hamburg”. (Harry) “I love the CoCo, cause it’s blood red theatre and really dark, so it’s really cool”.
  • Have you ever had anything embarrassing happen on stage? (Harry) “I fell off stage, I went to walk where there was nothing there and just fell off”
  • Was it a big fall did it hurt? “It was a big fall but I tried to make out that I meant to jump off, but it was quite funny” (Kevin) “You were just so confident walking into thin air”.
  • Favourite album right now? (Kevin) “Restoring Force the new Of Mice and Men Album, that’s pretty cool” (Harry) “I really like the new 1975 album. Architect’s new album that’s good, saw them the other day, it’s doing really well in charts too”.
  • Do you have any guilty pleasures? (Harry) “I like cars” (Kevin) “guilty pleasures… I like murders, hahahahaha” (Harry) “I like Candy, always eating candy”
  • What have you guys got coming up this year? “We’re playing Sonisphere, recording our album, finishing that off in April. Also looking to do some support tours, headline tours and get out to other countries”.

You can find their music and other stuff at www.facebook.com/theyashin

Last band of the night to play were the massive Funeral for a Friend. The band were formed in 2001 in South Wales, they’re a post hardcore band, with influences from 90’s and 00’s hardcore, punk and metal with other bits and pieces here and there. The lead singer came on stage with the long sleeved shirt buttoned all the way to top and baseball cap, which I found very odd as it was boiling hot in the venue. Between songs there was a lot of interaction with the crowd, the room was filled to top with people watching, there was a mosh pit on front of me and people sitting on other people’s shoulders singing the lyrics to the songs being played. All the band members were moving around, jumping up and down, and enjoying the atmosphere. The more the show went on the hotter it got in the area. I thought the band performed great and the crowd really enjoyed it, so it was al all round good performance by the headline band.

By the end of the event the venues were littered with cups all over the floor but the party wasn’t close to finishing, I headed along to the after party and enjoyed some of the DJ sets and asked fellow Takedowner’s if they’d enjoys the day and it appeared everyone had a really good day and were ready to party the night away.

Photos courtesy of JPS Images @ Takedown Festival

Egg London Industry Night

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To celebrate Egg London’s newly refurbished club there was only one thing for it, a private knee’s up that was done in style.

Guests of the club were welcomed with champagne on arrival with access to a free bar for the full duration of the press party. With the drinks flowing well and the DJ mixing the tunes, it was a good atmosphere in the newly revamped loft space.

The last 12 months has seen the club expand their dance floor spaces and make grand improvements in sound across the venue. They now boast the installation of the world’s first flipside sound system. The loft space has definitely expanded its dance floor, with emphasis of the more space on the dance floor the more it could be filled up with people looking for a good time.

Just next to the floor was an easy accessible outside space for people to socialise or catch their breath and cool down. Seating around the perimeter of the loft space was positioned in a relaxed style with the lighting also making the venue easy on the eye.

As the loft space started to fill up, it was time for some food as boxes and boxes of freshly made pizza were brought around to all those that needed to line their stomach for the long night ahead. A nice touch and something that was very welcomed by all those attending.

The line-up for the night was one not to be missed. Once the free bar was used to its full potential and the pizza had settled, it was time to wonder downstairs. Yousef’s Circus party was just getting into full swing where also Laurent Garnier and Steve Lawler were both spinning extended sets on the two main floors respectively.

The party would go on throughout the night with the doors shutting at 8am, and the people in attendance knowing they left after having a massive night. A night well played by Egg London, a club that knows how to party in style and look after all those involved.

Example Live At KOKO London (Ultimate Weekender)

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Examples Ultimate Weekender started off with a bang as the singer raved until there was no roof to touch with all the bouncing involved.

The intimate weekender, for fans close to Example, were treated but also tested to their limits as this type of show takes no prisoners. From the start, hits such as ‘Watch The Sun Come Up’ were majestically played with the roaring crowd obeying Examples plea to show him their ‘Piano Fingers’.

There was barely time for rest as ‘Playing in the Shadows’ was played mid-way through the set that formed a giant mosh pit in the centre of the standing area. The inevitable drum and bass / dubstep drop sent them into a euphoric frenzy.

The intensity was never given up, much to the pleasure of the raucous crowd who just wanted more and more. They were served perfectly with old hits such as ‘Won’t Go Quietly’ and ‘Kickstarts’ and some new songs from Examples 5th album ‘Live Life Living’ released June 23rd 2014.

A stand out song showcased from the new album was ‘Stay With Me’ which outlined positive vibes about the new album. Other songs such as ‘All The Wrong Places’ ‘Only Human’ ‘Take Me As I Am’ and the most latest release ‘Kids Again’ were also included in the energetic set.

The massive finish of ‘Changed The Way You Kiss Me’ that also includes DJ Chuckie’s  big Synth remix allows fans to jump so high that they touch the ceiling and are left screaming a sing along as Example leaves the stage.

The show didn’t stop there however as fans flocked to The Village Underground for the after party to see the second Example performance of the night with DJ Wire. A great venue for fans of a ravey background as it set a dark and moody but yet lively atmosphere for the acts that graced the stage until 2am. Example as bouncy as ever mixed his tunes with other favourable dance songs in a 50 minute set.

Example will continue this weekend in the same format with gigs in Manchester and Glasgow. The singer will be a big festival act for the summer 2014 festival season, and will promise to give a brilliant live show and be one not to miss.

Latitude Festival 2014 Launch Event Review

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The Black Keys have been announced as the third act to grace the Obelisk Stage at Latitude Festival this year. It will be the first time the blues / rock duo have headlined a UK festival. After the success of their last album 'El Camino' they will be more than ready to set the final night of the festival alight. They will join Damon Albarn and Two Door Cinema Club as the headlining acts for the ninth year of the festival.

The announcement was revealed at Sadler's Wells in London by festival organiser, Melvin Benn. Sadler's Wells not only provided the venue for the launch, it also adds to the festival by showcasing their very own English National Ballet, James Cousins Company and National Youth Dance Company.

The venue was full with guys and gals excited to hear who would be the next acts to be announced. As drink got flowing, it was clear to see that these people could not wait to be opening their first beer at the festival. The conversation was clearly about who they were most excited to see at Latitude.

Other acts which have been added to the stellar line-up include Editors, James, Crystal Fighters, Kelis, The Afghan Whigs and Tinariwen, Mogwai, Lykke Li, War On Drugs, Temples, Parquet Courts, George Ezra, Conor Oberst, Tom Vek and Dawes.

For those looking for something a little different, a well-rounded cultural experience, the reason that people swarm to Latitude, there will be performers such as Laura Bates (Literature), Sabrina Mahfouz (Poetry) and Margeret Thatcher Queen of Soho (Cabaret) gracing the Arts Stages. The theme for the Art Stages was revealed as 'Secrets and Lies'.

Finally if you're just looking for a giggle and a laugh the Comedy stage will delight you with the likes of Dara O'Briain, Milton Jones, Cardinal Burns, Josh Widdicombe and Seann Walsh.

Having been awarded 'Best Line-up' 2013 at the UK Festival Awards, Latitude has continued to pull together yet another outstanding line-up. We cannot wait to get down to Henham Park, Suffolk in July!

Tickets are on sale now. To get yours go to www.latitudefestival.com/tickets

Noah Francis-Johnson Showcase. Shepherds Bush Hall February 2014

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The cello is without doubt one of the finest instruments to use when looking for maximum impact in a small space and with a backdrop as ornate and beautiful as the Shepherds Bush Hall, it's easy to understand why both tonight's acts chose to include this often overlooked accompaniment to support their stripped out sets. All in all, both the venue and the instrument choice worked perfectly in setting the scene for Noah Francis-Johnson to introduce us to musical talents whilst effortlessly leading us far away from his less glamorous and ornate past in the Cardiff boxing ring.

 

Introduced briefly to Gallows Ghost with a four song warm up set, a confident delivery of lilting vocal tones, guitar and cello served a startlingly intimate performance; effortlessly holding the attention of the room even if some members where surprisingly caught otherwise unawares. The trio’s final song choice of a watered down Pharrell Williams Happy cover however, was presumably a dubious choice from their A&R team. This really should leave them asking bigger questions and control of their set list as they noticeably began to lose the attention they had already gained and it felt a touch awkward and contrived. Altogether though, this was a very warm and welcome surprise from a band with a subtle humor and strong harmonies of string and song. It definitely left me wanting more.

 

Without preamble, and supported not only by the ubiquitous cello and guitar but also keys, Noah introduced himself with a raw soulful voice and a brooding song. There is no denying he's a very talented singer with an enigmatic charisma and a deep passion for his music. His songwriting is certainly archetypal of the more mature singer songwriter but although heartfelt, it really does lack the uniqueness and originality that is needed to redefine the genre and there is little hooky enough to allow instant broad appeal.

 

All that aside, there is an engaging and consummate performer to be enjoyed here. His intimacy with his own songs and audience allow a delivery that you forget to look for in artists that don't write or understand their own music. Hopefully it's a point that's not completely lost on tonight's audience (typically from inside the industry and the associated media types) who's job it is now to transpose Noah's work to an altogether bigger stage. Having proven through tonight's set of heartbreak, sex, love and forgiveness (recurrent themes is his songs) that he clearly fits in the 'acoustic' bracket the bigger question should maybe be; is there still a mass audience that will take this heartfelt, passionate songsmith over something altogether less soulful but more instantly accessible?

All together, it's a collection of songs that would sit very well on a dinner party CD but not so much on your iPod as there isn't quite enough variation to make you come back. Saying that though, there is little here to stop Noah becoming this generation's Terrance Trent D'Arby (or maybe even Roachford at a push) providing he can similarly find that one big hit and get the right platform and support from tonight's industry savvy audience; providing of course that he’s allowed to develop more as an artist and can move away from indulgent cover songs as evidently it’s his songwriting that a knowledgeable public will eventually buy into.

 

Tobin James

Live at Leeds 2014 Launch Party Review

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Over the past few seasons, Live at Leeds has built up quite the reputation on (beyond) saturated UK festival circuit.

Some how, its manage to stay current, and modern, whilst retaining its raw, cultish edge that puts it so far ahead of the rest of the inner-city festival crowds.  It celebrates young talent, becoming a who’s who of up and comers, the raw edge of indie and rock. The festival has also managed to it sit itself in the opening slot to the entire festival season, Heroic? No pressure right?
 

Hero status comes a loyal cult fan base, one that we are joined whole heartedly by tonight at Wardrobe: packed to the door with small time bands, hip local bloggers and a surprising amount of ‘Alex Turner’ quiffs. There’s a serious atmosphere here, after all this isn’t just the line-up to a cult (not to mention award-winning) festival, it’s the line up to what’s to come, this team is famous for picking up future huge hitters, Ed Sherran, LadyHawke, Maccabees, King Krule and the Futureheads have all played this festival, going on to play some of the biggest stages around, from glasto to the other local giant-Leeds Festival.

The line up this time, boasts an incredible list of names all playing across the cities three day event:
 Blood Red Shoes, Albert Hammond Junior and Kodaline are joined by festival favourites Pulled Apart by horses and the new stars of the indie scene; We were evergreen, Yuck and Say Lou Lou.

Once again the line up doesn’t disappoint, and that’s without the launch of the headlining acts…

 
Tommy Loebell