EP ‘Crayon Colours’ is abloom with chiming harmonies, rambunctious pop melodies and witty storytelling. None of these songs pass the three minute mark, and their triple-distilled dayglo appeal offers some much-needed sunshine pep in these times of gloominess.
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The Tim and Sam Band
We say: \\”Without a doubt, the seven songs on Put Your Slippers On, The Tim and Sam Band’s EP re-release (out on Full of Joy Records, April 13th), couldn’t be described as anything but beautiful. Layers of violins, gentle wind…
Album Review: Anni Rossi – Rockwell
There is a danger of overkill on the quirky-girl-with-acoustic-guitar-and-an-‘unusual’-voice front. Anni Rossi however, appears to be a far more interesting proposition. A classically trained musician from a young age, Rossi first caused a stir on the internet (where else?) with her startling take on Radiohead’s ‘Creep’. Rockwell, her debut LP, clocks in at just under half an hour, and – despite a few moments of genuine promise – feels more like a collection of demos than an album proper.
Single Review: Alessi’s Ark – Over the Hill
You don’t need me to tell you that Alessi Laurent-Marke is one of the most talented creatures there has ever been to grace FFS ears, and her second single “Over The Hill” comes as no exception.
Review: Butcher Boy – React or Die
It’s an exciting time for Scottish music. Camera Obscura are set to release fourth full length My Maudlin Career, Kris Drever, John McCusker and Roddy Woomble have joined forces to form a folk behemoth, and now relative newcomers Butcher Boy have released their second album React Or Die.
EP Review: First Aid Kit – Drunken Trees
Drunken Trees really isn’t a bad name for a record that would provide the perfect soundtrack for a cider-soaked spring picnic in the park. The mix of languid guitars, interweaving vocal harmonies and perfectly charming lyrics might seem a bit familiar, and though it doesn’t necessarily push boundaries, there can be no doubt that Swedish sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg have crafted a wee nugget of loveliness here.
Album Review: It Hugs Back – Inside Your Guitar
I’m sure I’m not alone in my pre-occupation with this band’s name. What is ‘It’? A kitten? Your drunken Uncle? The monster under your bed? Even more disconcerting then, is the suggestion that whatever ‘it’ is may well be lurking inside your guitar, waiting, perhaps, to catch you off guard before bursting forth and squeezing the hell out of you. Terrifying. But totally untrue, of course, so let me brew a cup of calming herbal tea and relax, for this is a band best enjoyed in a restful atmosphere.
Album: The Martin Green Machine – First Sighting
Play. A strange voice: “I love the accordion. It is a beautiful instrument.”
Aaaaaaaaaagggggggghhhhh. Stop the horrid accordion. Please I beg of you, no more. Please sto – oh you have. And now there are some lovely guitars. And a lush bass line. And suddenly the accordion is the beautiful instrument you promised us Mr Green (Machine).
Album Review: M. Ward – Hold Time
A mishmash of classic covers and bemusingly brilliant originals, with mentions of William Blake, Catholic education and original sin and a mingling of genres as diverse as glam rock, rockabilly and blues, this album is a ruddy triumph.
M. Ward
Let me introduce you to M. Ward (unless of course you’ve already come across any one of his numerous previously released solo records, in which case feel free to tell me to shut up). Ward is from Portland, Oregon, and…