Name: Audrey
Web Site: http://12monthsevendays.wordpress.com/
Bio: Music journo and blogger. European Music Editor for sosoactive.com.
Posts by :
Little Green Cars- Vicar Street May 11th 2013
May 15th, 2013
With the release of debut album Absolute Zero and a string of quality festivals already lined up the future certainly looks bright for this highly talented Dublin quintet. Long has this band waited for their time of recognition and that time is now.
Ironically so, it was now their turn to keep the almost sell-out crowd brimming with anticipation until the very last second as they opened with the lyrics, “I’ve been waiting for a long-time.” As Faye blasts out her haunting vocals from the opening number, ‘Red and Blue’ she indeed has a way of controlling the crowd whilst waking them up from a slight slumber.
Eagerness for the big ones sure is high and ‘Angel Owl’ does a good job at changing the pace with what one might call an ode to Irish band Director’s hit ‘Reconnect’. (Have a listen and you’ll see what I mean)
‘Please’ is to follow, again displaying Faye’s amazing sexy low pitched vocals and then time for Steve to shine on ‘Little Red Dragon’ which he indeed does and then back to Faye for more of the previous on ‘Kitchen Floor’.
“Sick as them…”Yes you sure are LGC, perhaps ‘sick’ and reminiscent to someone like Bell X1. You can truly tell this band have worked together for a long time as their pure unison is always present.
The theme throughout the gig was one of a build-up and when it came to ‘My Love Took me Down to the River’ the audience were on a unified high as wild guitar beats ensued and everyone in the crowd sang the lyrics back to the stage.
Little Green Cars-John Wayne
‘John Wayne’ was of course welcomed with open arms and worked perfectly as a follow up being the better known of the two and perhaps the highlight of the night. As Steve sang the lyrics, “slowly falling in love with you” I can assure that for myself and everyone in the audience this is life imitating art with us doing just that for Little Green Cars…
The night was perfectly wrapped up with an encore of slower songs, ‘Goodbye Blue Monday’ and ‘The Consequences of not sleeping’ creating a feeling of intimacy and the sense that you just witnessed the awakening of something very special.
Little Green Cars debut album, Absolute Zero is out now….
The Electric Picnic 2012: The Basket of TreatsV
September 6th, 2012
As the saying goes, better late than never; so after a mere few hours’ recovery here goes the story that was Electric Picnic 2012 the basket of treats.
Friday Highlight: The XX on the Main Stage
Well as predicted the XX were most certainly the stand out act of the Friday and perhaps the whole weekend. Even the most skeptical of music fans turned up in their drones to catch a listen of just what this little band had to offer and those that witnessed the performance know just exactly why.
As Romy and crew played a mixture of songs from both their debut and new offering Coexist thousands of spectators flooded out from the front of the stage spreading for miles around.
Songs such as ‘Shelter’ and the amazing ‘VCR’ truly had every spectator fan or non fan singing along with their simple elegant words. It sure was an enormous step up from the medium sized EP performance tent of 2009 and for the XX perhaps one of their greatest achievements to date.
Best Song: Not being biased although The XX, Shelter was most certainly one of those ‘wow’ factors that will be etched in the mind for some time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfTfHTUUee4
Best Craic or Chill: Christy Moore on the Crawdaddy Stage
The crowd may have been perspiring just as much as Mr. Moore himself as the tent practically burst at the seams though nothing was could possibly lessen the almighty craic in there.
From young to old all were enthralled by the spectacular performance we’ve come to expect from Christy sparking a sing-song for every lyric to his famous ditties whilst enticing even the odd Hooley here and there.
Low Light:
If there had to be one then I’d have to say the hazy rain, yet not even that could spoil our fun.
Best Unknown/Tip for the Top: Cold Specks on the Crawdaddy Stage
Those of you who arrived early may have been privy to the soulful wonder that is Cold Specks AKA Al Spx and for those of you who didn’t then remember this name; you may just get another opportunity…watch this space.
Saturday Highlight: Orbital on the Main Stage
The Cure would always be a tough act to follow for any band although dance legends Orbital quite frankly did it in style.
Playing most of the songs from Work surely delighted the members of the crowd as happy faces were displayed all round. The arrivals of ‘Halcyon’, ‘Chime’ and ‘Belfast’ most certainly had the revellers going wild undoubtedly drawing out even the furthest of closet raver to exhibit their well kept secret dance moves.
Best Song: The Cure, ‘Lovesong’
On hearing the infectious opening music and beautiful lyric, “Whenever far away, I will always love you” the goose bumps encapsulated me and all the other fans surrounding me.
One fan exclaimed, “even though it’s one of the bands lesser known hits, it always manages to grip me the most whenever I see them perform this one live.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXCKLJGLENs
Best Craic or Chill: Strolling about on an early Saturday afternoon and checking out all the weird and wonderful things Electric Picnic has to offer that you never noticed the night before such as “The Direct Line to God” and The Slide.
Lowlight: The campsite troughs (oh er I mean toilets) were most definitely not fit for human use, a disgrace and a health hazard. By Saturday any slight hope of actually using these appalling holes was impossible leaving quite a number of distressed faces about the place in search of an alternative rest place.
Best Unknown/Tip for the Top: Turn on the Cosby Stage
If Turn does what they said they might do and continue with their comeback then I predict big things for these three Irish lads.
The Dublin band drew an impressive afternoon crowd into the Cosby Stage with a trip down memory lane of when Turn was huge in the Ireland gigging scene. Playing songs such as ‘In Position’ and ‘Time on my Side’ made us wonder how they didn’t make it as big Internationally back then and that perhaps now is the trios “turn” to hit the big time?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrzgqmNFYfA
Sunday Highlight: The Killers on the Main Stage
The inclusion of a questionable number of average songs at the start of the set had me fearing a wash out. The performances of the big ones although surely made up for that.
As it, “started out with a kiss, how did it end up like this, it was only a kiss…” blasted from the stage the crowd were indeed well warmed up and ready for more.
Best Song: The Killers ‘Jenny was a Friend of Mine’
I simply must chose this song as not one person was standing still at the main stage as Brandon exclaimed the lyrics, “Oh come on, oh come on, oh come on” and the opening guitar riffs were quite simply mighty.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlOqXcPkUis
Best Craic or Chill: The Dublin Gospel Choir on the Main Stage
It really is true that all it takes is the simple things to brighten up your day.
Whilst strolling around on Sunday morning acquiring our Pie Minister fix for the day we simply couldn’t ignore the best hangover cure ever soaring from the main stage in the form of the Dublin Gospel Choir.
What a perfect start to a beautiful sunny day as the lads proceeded to belt out teasers for the night ahead with hits from Elbow and The Killers to name a few; ‘One day like this’ was certainly a welcome rendition quite possibly out doing the original.
Lowlight: Having to hit the hay at a frosty but sensible 1 am.
Monday Lowlight: So it was all over and we have to finally leave the music haven we have come to call our home. It’s only 362 days until next year’s festival and alas we shall meet again; so for now Electric Picnic 2012 we shall bid you adieu.
The Electric Picnic: They just can’t get enough
August 16th, 2012
Along with a showcase of amazing new acts comes the welcome return of numerous Electric Picnic favourites. It seems this lot quite simply cannot get enough of the perfect platform that the Electric Picnic has to offer, and neither can we.
Hot Chip (2005, 2006, 2007 and 2012)
Probably best known for their dance smash, ‘Ready for the Floor’ eager beaver’s Hot Chip make their record fourth return to Stradbally. The seven- piece from London, who have an impressive tally of five studio albums since their birth in 2004 are set to wow the crowd with their regular improvised set which has been described by Glide magazine as being full of, “excitement, energy and the unexpected.”
Hot Chip play on the Sunday night, September 2nd- Stage to be confirmed
Elbow (2006, 2008, and 2012)
Former Mercury Prize winners, Elbow make their third appearance in six years to the Electric Picnic. Renowned for their raw and unkempt musical style the quintet excite audiences where ever they go. I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing the genius of Mr. Guy Garvey live on stage perfectly performing the emotional and captivating set to an enthralled audience. This should be a good one.
Elbow also plays on the Sunday night, September 2nd- Main Stage
Elbow- One Day like This
Ham Sandwich (2008, 2011 and 2012)
Irish indie rock quartet Ham Sandwich has actually been around for longer than most people think, having formed in 2003. With two great albums under their belts, ‘Carry the Meek’ and ‘White Fox’ the band make their welcome third visit to the September extravaganza. I’d get there early for this one as the beautiful vocals from lead singer Níamh are sure to draw a massive crowd.
Ham Sandwich plays on Saturday night September 3rd- Stage to be confirmed
The Riptide Movement (2010, 2011 and 2012)
Third time’s a charm for Dublin’s The Riptide Movement as they make yet another return. Having released their debut album, ‘What about the tip jars’ in 2009 the four-piece received quite a lot of critical acclaim from the media. Phantom 105.2 have also described single, ‘Thieves in a gallery’ as, “easily the best Irish single of the year.” The Riptide Movement have quite the following, so expect a good show.
The Riptide Movement plays on Sunday September 3rd- Stage to be confirmed
Villagers (2009, 2010 and 2012)
Having toured with the likes of Bell X 1 and Elbow, Mercury nominated Villagers are no strangers to the festival scene and just like the others seem to have taken quite a shine to The Electric Picnic. Their debut album, ‘Becoming a Jackal’ was quite the success, reaching number one on both the Official Irish and the UK indie charts respectively.
Villagers play on Saturday September 2nd- Stage to be confirmed
It appears the Dublin Gospel Choir (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008) have played an early afternoon slot for an impressive four years in a row, now that’s worth a mention.
Other Notable Returns
Bell X1 (2009 and 2012)
Orbital (2009 and 2012)
The XX (2009 and 2012)
The XX- Intro
The Antlers (2010 and 2012)
Crystal Castles (2010 and 2012)
Le Galaxie (2008 and 2012)
Bat for Lashes (2009 and 2012)
Sigor Rós (2008 and 2012)
Tindersticks (2008 and 2012)
Gavin Friday (2011 and 2012)
Four Tet (2009 and 2012)
Cathey Davey (2008 and 2012)
Explosions in the Sky (2009 and 2012)
If you’ve got a winning formula then why change it, Electric Picnic I salute you and look forward to the treats that are in store this September…
Passion Pit “Gossamer” Album Review
August 4th, 2012
“What’s it like- Moby meets MGMT, meets The Guillemots.”
Gossamar, the highly anticipated follow up to Passion Pit’s 2009’s hit album Manners is finally ready for your listening pleasure. This offering is full of everything you like to expect in a poppy dance album; catchy tunes, ripping melodies and infectious beats.
Opening track ‘Take a Walk’ is truly one of those that’s hard to get out of your head; once it’s there its upbeat and acutely addictive melody will really stick in your mind. This song defiantly sets the tone for the treat that is to follow.
As the album elapses Angelakos paints a colourful story of heartbreak, toil and the escapism of many demons.
‘I’ll be alright’ displays an honest message to a failing relationship that you can in fact be okay less that person you previously thought you could not live without. Lyrics such as, “you should go if you want to” are made sincere amid the infusion of some seriously trippy beats and magical vocal tones.
A slight chill encapsulates mid album where Angelakos mixes in some slow R ‘n’ B and descends into a more soulful tone than his usual falsetto. Funky tune, ‘Cried like a ghost’ also displays a more emotional feel to Angelakos usual falsetto tone, where you can feel his anguish for a girl named Silvia, whom he pleads in vain to leave the person who simply does not deserve her. This is mirrored in the words, “Silvia, right back where you came; you’re like a pendulum.”
“Wow”, is how I would describe the intro to ‘Hideaway’ a very mobyesque song with optimistic lyrics,” someday everything will be ok.” The upbeat music coupled with hopeful expression give a true sense of calm and plants the idea of oncoming resolution.
The introduction of ‘Love is Greed’ most certainly brings the album alive with a beautiful little ditty, which if I’m not mistaken was featured in the opening credits of Channel 4 series Skins. Try listening to this MGMT style song without a floating feeling of freedom.
I can’t help but think that coming towards the end of the album Angelakos can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, almost tasting it in ‘It’s not my Fault, I’m Happy.’ Moby meets MGMT on this one, where he accepts no apology for the euphoric emotions exclaiming “It’s not fair, I’m the only one who seems to care.”
Where We Belong
Closing track ‘Where we Belong’ literally encased my spine with shivers. If this is the type of tune your into, you know the sort with magnificent strings and haunting vocals then this may be enough to send you over that heavenly edge. What an amazing end to a great album….
Gossamar, I would safely say is yet another work of genius form the very talented Mr. Angelakos; the master of mixing enchanting music with heartfelt lyrics.
Snow Patrol- Dublin’s Phoenix Park: Sunday, July 8th, 2012
July 16th, 2012
Even on paper this concert sounded quite magnificent, and that’s just exactly what it was. Still the previous day’s revelations of concert chaos, mud fields and travelling traffic jams to the Phoenix Park had no inkling of deterring the excited Sunday revellers.
A showery day which began with excellent support from bands, Here we go Magic, We are Augustines, Bressie, The Temper Trap and concluded with the exceptional Florence and The Machine perfectly set the stage for one of the most impressive Snow Patrol performances ever.
The band blasted onto stage with ‘Hands Open’ at around 9 O’ Clock to a foray of extraordinary lights and visual images of soaring eagles and snowflakes which scattered throughout the show, creating a seriously well presented stadium production.
What followed was an array of impressive hits including ‘Take Back the City’, ‘Crack the Shutters ‘and ‘This isn’t everything you Are’ which the crowd in unison sang back every word.
As Gary Lightbody exclaimed, “18 years of dedication has led us to this; possibly the most nostalgic gig of our lives”, the always melancholy ‘Run’ boomed from the stage again not leaving one reveller devoid of every lyric rolling off their tongues.
‘Chasing Cars’ and ‘Chocolate’ sent the crowd into a distinct aura of ecstasy as I’m sure many were waiting for these two fan favourites. As the revellers chant those distinct words, “as a child of 25” an amazing roar of nostalgic applause and hopping happily about ensues.
As the lads crack on into the amazing ‘Open your Eyes’ and huge hit, ‘You’re all that I Have’ you can feel a definite sense of comradeship between groups of friends as happy hugs and general reminiscence occur between Snow Patrol’s amazing following.
The encore included an emotional rendition of the very personal ‘Lifening’ as Gary sang an ode to his father whom he had brought on stage as we all applauded. With this you could definitely feel the genuine emotions exuding from not just father and son, albeit the whole band.
The set was topped off with the upbeat pop classic, ‘Just Say Yes’ as the whole audience from the front to the very back danced around ecstatically in the mud which concluded the perfect ending to the up most perfect day.
Snow Patrol are well renowned for putting on a great show which I myself can vouch for having been in attendance for most of their Irish gigs over the years. Whilst this may be the case I strongly believe they may all perhaps have been leading up to this performance, this one was indeed something special.
The show as a whole was undoubtedly impressive on all accounts, leaving my only wish that the Nordie lads could play a Springsteenesque 3 hour show.
Speaking to one fan after the concert they exclaimed, “No joke, it was actually the greatest night of my life.”
I reckon this gig will be talked about for some long period and will most certainly be one of those etched in Irish music lovers heads for some time to come.
A Review of Canadian band Metric’s latest album, Synthetica
June 29th, 2012
In being the first album since Metric’s Award winning 2009 Fantasies, Synthetica certainly has a lot to live up to. Can Metric’s 5th studio album possibly reach the dizzy heights of the latter? Have a listen and see for yourself.
Artificial Nocturne- ‘Artificial Nocturne’ displays a teasing crescendo throughout the track which unfortunately fails to reach the distance. Although good riffs and drum beats surround this one; they unfortunately can’t do enough to redeem this only average song.
Youth Without Youth- As a first single to be release I don’t really think ‘Youth Without Youth’ really did the trick. If I hadn’t have heard previous offerings from the band I may have given up before even listening to the full album.
Speed the Collapse- Although not an amazing song ‘Speed the Collapse’ certainly picks up the pace to what we have come to expect from Metric and sets the groundwork for excitement.
Breathing Underwater- ‘Breathe Underwater’ is a good song although at times appears quite lacklustre. Is it just a teaser for something better? I truly hope so. “I can see the end, but it hasn’t happened yet.” These lyrics perfectly personify the hopeful build up to something great.
Dreams So Real- as Emily proclaims “A scream becomes a yawn.” I can’t help but think the line sums up this whole song.
Lost Kitten- As I listen to ‘Lost Kitten’ I’m sad to say that the disappointment continues.
The Void- “I stayed up to prove I could keep up with you” Can you?
Synthetica- “Hey I’m not synthetica” Emily exclaims throughout the song although I partly disagree. If you ironically call a song “Synthetica” you most certainly need to create the total opposite of this and produce something most original and brilliant.
Clone- “It’s too late in the day to take you on.” It appears Metric have just thrown down the gloves and given up trying to produce something more than an okay pop album. In saying that musically Clone is quite beautiful albeit just not enough.
The Wanderlust- Pretty cool.
Nothing But Time- …and finally the hard-hitting, drum-thumping rock song this album has been preparing for although it’s unfortunately too little too late and dejectedly almost pointless at this late stage.
Lead singer Emilie Haines said “Synthetica is about staying home and wanting to crawl out of your skin from the lack of external stimulation…about forcing yourself to confront what you see in the mirror when you finally stand still long enough to catch a reflection…about being able to identify the original in a long line of reproductions. It’s about what is real v what is artificial.”
I on the other hand take no pleasure in saying that Synthetica is nothing more than a disappointing filler album. I sincerely hope it will be followed up with something more memorable or perhaps Metric may sadly be in danger of fading into rock music obscurity.
I can’t help but think they should have held back some of their better tunes for this album, as they appear to have somewhat run out of steam. Then again perhaps in the past we were simply just spoiled.
Music To Truly Get You Moving
June 13th, 2012
Are you ever getting ready for that big night out that you’ve all been planning for some time and you simply do not want to go? Or, you simply can’t think of anything to get you out of the doldrums feeling you’re experiencing, well think no further.
This dolly mixture of tunes are sure to work, they certainly work for me and they can pull you right out too.
So let’s put them to the test, here’s my top 10 (in no exact order), if these don’t work I challenge you to create your very own top 10, enjoy 
1) Hysteria: Muse
Chart Position, December 2003- 17 (UK)
Taken from Muse’s 3rd and possibly best studio album, Absolution ‘Hysteria’ has it all. Amazing rock beats encapsulate the genius lyrics and vocals of Mr. Matthew Bellamy. As the words, “I want it now, give me your heart and soul” thunder from his lungs you may feel yourself encased in goose bumps and pure excitement. This tune is additive to the highest degree and positive to release even the heaviest head from the gloomiest mid-week hangover ever.
2) Born Slippy. NUXX: Underworld
Chart Position July 1996- 2 (UK)
Taken from one of the Best Movie Soundtracks of all time ‘Born Slippy’ just makes you want to party; between the banging beats, amazing music and the lyrics, “Shouting Lager, Lager, Lager” what more could you want from a banging party tune.
3) Drinking in LA: Bran Van 3000
Chart Position, February 1997- 3 (UK)
“Hi. My name is Stereo Mike.” Does anybody who was a teenager in the nineties not know those famous opening lyrics? ‘Drinking in LA’ is one of those nostalgic feel good tunes that is almost impossible to forget. I reckon at one time or another we all thought the lyrics were about our group of mates and the good times we have or indeed used to have. Try putting this one on without a smile etched across your face.
4) Dog Days: Florence & the Machine
Highest Chart Position January 2010- 23 (UK)
“Happiness” well the clue is in the first word; ‘Dog Days’ is one of those songs that exudes a scene of jumping on the bed excitement. Any hint of procrastination when heading out and a blast of this one will surely do the trick.
5) Paint It, Black: The Rolling Stones
Chart Position May 1966- 1 (UK & US)
I don’t think I’ve ever heard this song, under any circumstance and not wanted to dance around like a lunatic as the signature sitar riff grabs you right from the outset. Paint It, Black is one of those tunes that always put you in a good mood, no matter how hard you may try to ignore it.
6) Sound and Vision: David Bowie
Chart Position February 1977- 3 (UK)
“Dooo doo doo doo, doo doo doo doo,” this is one great confident track right from the start; Pure class.
7) Hot Ride: The Prodigy
Chart Position November 2004- Did not conform to Chart Regulations
“Up, up and away, am I beautiful, my beautiful.” Such up- beat lyrics and banging beats surround this little cracker from the best dance band of the 90’s and today. You certainly can’t help but hop around to this one.
8) End Credits: Chase & Status feat. Plan B
Chart Position November 2009- 9 (UK)
“I can feel, something happening that I’ve never felt before.” These lyrics perfectly describe the euphoric emotions emulating from this song. I most certainly believe that this music could be used for a moving scene from absolutely any movie soundtrack or simply to pick up the pace of any nightclub DJ set or party.
9) The Skin of my Yellow Country Teeth: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
Chart Position- No actual chart positions
The instrumentation on this track captures your attention right from the start and puts you in the mood for dancing right from the off -set. No matter what your opinion may be of Alec Ounsworth’s voice; you cannot deny the addictiveness of this class little tune.
10) Trains to Brazil: The Guillemots
Chart Position September 2006- 36 (UK)
Now you can’t help but be transformed from the worst mood ever when you hear this little number which is an instant pick me up. Fyfe sings about how war and tough times may be going on all around us but when you think of that special someone it all just seems a distant meaningless blur. ‘Trains to Brazil’ is sure to give you the musical push you need to face the day on a positive note.
Garbage- Not Your Kind of People – Album Review
May 31st, 2012
The very apt lyrics, “I won’t be your dirty little secret” perfectly personify how the Scottish/American punk rockers Garbage wish to explode back onto the scene after a quite notable absence of six years.
Automatic Systematic Habit
They may not be everyone’s “kind of people” although they certainly are mine; and with an opener like the banging ‘Automatic Systematic Habit’ I reckon they may soon just be yours too.
Big Bright World
Big Bright World gives off an aura of, “this is going to be something good” right from the start. This track certainly has a bit of everything; it’s melodic, full of infectious guitar riffs and beats, and is sure to brighten up any dull day.
Blood for Poppies
“Catchy” is how I would perfectly personify ‘Blood for Poppies’. An early Muse-esque opening quickly turns into a mixture of pop, cool beats and Shirley’s surprisingly appealing talk style singing. Musically this song has a dolly mixture of everything; I reckon a couple of listens and it will be a sure fire hit.
Control
“Maybe I’ll hold my breath and jump right in”, Shirley exclaims from the outset and the song does just that. Good beats and vocals encase this number which exudes effect; although I can’t help but think I’ve heard too much similarity before.
Not Your Kind of People
Melodically it’s a mix of Primal Scream and perhaps the Beatles although unfortunately even with those two great influences it sadly comes up a bit short of a remarkable number.
Felt
An aura of My Bloody Valentine surrounds this track although Garbage brings their rocky unique feel to it. ‘Felt’ is one of those tunes which on first listen may not impress too much but by the second or third the repeat button may just come in handy.
I Hate Love
Remonetising the Garbage of old ‘I Hate Love’ is quite a good track although it may perhaps fall to the wayside when compared to the other stompers on this offering.
Sugar
I can see what it’s trying to do with the psychedelic music and haunting percussion although ‘Sugar’ sadly fails to reach its full potential.
Battle in Me
‘Battle in Me’ is a good little pop song about the constant battle of love and war between the sexes. Strong beats coupled with angry lyrics create an aura of anger which slowly turns to resolution making it easy to relate to this one and instantly sing along even on first listen.
Man on a Wire
Rocky little tune, not much to it but a strong enough number all the same.
Beloved Freak
“Nothing good was ever free.” Beautiful music and heartfelt lyrics encapsulate ‘Beloved Freak’ however I reckon Garbage should have perhaps ended the album as in your face as it began to make it that bit more memorable.
In all ‘Not Your Kind of People’ after a few listens is a very good album, albeit I can’t help but think the band packed too many good songs into the beginning and somehow slightly neglected the end. However If this was just a taster and they are most certainly back I’m sure Garbage have much more for us to look forward to in the future.
Garbage- Automatic Systematic Habit
Three Epic Musical Treats To Enjoy This Summer
May 21st, 2012
With summer almost in full swing, I wanted to share three acts that are currently in heavy rotation on my playlist. They all have two things in common: One- They’re all on their genius second offerings and Two- Collectively I reckon they’re going to be huge on the indie scene.
They would have fit in perfectly in the 80’s, although their timing is impeccable; we certainly needed someone different like Vigo Thieves to shake up the music scene of the moment.
I graciously predict big things for this four piece indie band from Glasgow who have already been described as, “anthemic and outstanding” and “a band tipped for chart success.”
Since the release of their debut Love is Dead EP in 2011, the indie rockers have strived to create something different that will stand out from the rest – which according to lead singer/guitarist Steve Jukes is, “a big stadium sound which the music scene has been lacking in Scotland.”
The band who recently released their second offering (2 Part) Heart and Soul EP created such a buzz on the indie circuit that it lead to them being approached by T in The Park organizers who were so impressed that they are now using the amazing single, ‘Heartbeats’ as this summer’s theme tune.
Festival fit Vigo Thieves are undoubtedly ready for the summer ahead with a mighty performance scheduled for England’s T in the Park and a number of European festival slots to be announced shortly.
Vigo Thieves- Heartbeats
Santigold, AKA Santi White tried it first time around in 2008 with her debut Santogold, which gave her a medium name in the world of pop: although this time around I strongly trust ‘Master of My Make Belief’ will be the one to define 35 year old Santi and possibly grant her world-wide success.
Miss Gold is no stranger to the touring circuit having supported big acts such as Coldplay and Beastie Boys. In addition – the multi-talented songstress has collaborated and played a part in writing songs for Pharell Williams, Julian Casablancas and Christiana Anguilera to name but a few.
The first single released from her second offering ‘Disparate Youth’ is currently doing the rounds of the clubs to rapturous response. This offering is speckled with raw bass tripping beats which is one of those tunes guaranteed to etch itself into the minds of clubbers for some time.
We can expect more exciting hook up’s with the likes of Amadou & Miriam and The Red Hot Chilli Peppers as they embark on the current U.S leg of the I’m with You tour. From the outlook, 2012 has been set to be the defining year for the career of Miss Santigold.
Disparate Youth- Santigold
I would describe them as a little bit like Manchester Orchestra meets Placebo: New York formed trio Yellow Ostrich are most certainly ready to take on the indie scene full force with their latest album Strangeland.
What started off as lead-singer/ guitarist Alex Schaaf recording some little tunes in his bedroom back in 2009 is now staged for an indie indulgence of massive levels. Songs such as ‘Marathon Runner ‘and ‘The Shakedown’ would surely not appear out of place on any number one selling indie album, which I expect is the direction Strangeland is headed.
Whilst debut The Mistress may have been somewhat of an experiment, Strangeland is indeed the real thing. The difference perhaps may have an inkling to do with the welcome addition of Jon Natchez (Beirut and Bishop Allen) whose horn and bass provide that something special.
It’s set to be an exciting summer of U.S touring for the band with a set of June gigs supporting Los Campesinos, and slots at Lollapalooza and Outside Lands Festivals in August. Yellow Ostrich’s amazing album Strangeland is out now.
Yellow Ostrich- The Shakedown
European Summer Festivals 2012: The Cream of the Crop Part 2
May 3rd, 2012
It may seem hard to imagine with the abysmal weather and slight air of depression of late; however there are a number of better places with blue skies and amazing music just over the horizon…Yes it’s the rest of the best European Summer festivals that 2012 has in store, just take your pick.
T in the Park
Famous for their epic line-ups which last year included headliners like the Foo Fighters, Coldplay, Arctic Monkeys and Beyonce, again this year – T in the Park will certainly not disappoint.
Hitting the stages so far for 2012 are major acts such as The Stone Roses, Snow Patrol, Kasabian and Florence & the Machine; along with the likes of Elbow, The Courteeners, Jessie J and Orbital. Regular band announcements may result in agonizing decisions for revelers of just who to see, although if it means choosing one band against another they will without doubt get value for money with this one.
Tickets range from £70 for a day up to £189 for a weekend pass with camping.
T in the Park rocks on from Friday 6th until Sunday 8th of July.
Sziget, Hungary
Running for an astounding jam packed seven days, Sziget festival simply must be the most value for money music festival out there. With the Award for Best Major European Music Festival under its belt Sziget will undoubtedly live up to future expectations.
This year’s festival definitely boasts some of the best acts out there which include Placebo, The Stone Roses, The Killers,(Just announced)The Vaccines, Two Door Cinema Club, Glasvegas, Friendly Fires and for those dance fanatics The XX and Steve Aoki to name a few.
Seven days of musical bliss is an absolute steal at €200, or €45 for a day ticket; I know which one I’d be going for.
Sziget runs from Monday 6th until Monday 13th of August.
Electric Picnic
Ireland’s Premier Boutique Music Festival which nicely rounds off every Irish summer. Sometimes referred to as the “Irish Glastonbury,” Electric Picnic has something for everyone, boasting not only some of the greatest music acts of the moment but also comedy, film, arts and foods of the world.
With the noticeable absenteeism of the Oxygen and Glastonbury festivals this year 2012 looks set to perhaps be The Picnic’s biggest and most successful year to date. Holding the monopoly on this summer’s Irish festivals they now have the pick of the musical pot boasting such cool names as The Killers, The Cure, Grizzly Bear, Elbow, Orbital and the XX.
Early Bird Tickets are priced at €230 for camping and a Sunday Day Ticket will set you back €99.50.
The Musical Picnic runs from Friday 31st August until Sunday 2nd of September.
Roskilde European Music Festival, Denmark- Denmark’s first real music festival is quite unique in that it is run by the non-profit Roskilde Organization for development and support of music, culture and humanism.
For this reason it undoubtedly adds incentive even before the announced line-up that will include Bjork, The Cure, and Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, Bon Iver and Friendly Fires.
Roskilde takes place from Thursday 5th until Sunday 8th of July.
Tickets are DKK 850 (€115) for a day ticket which is pretty steep although DKK 2700 (€262) for a full eight day’s inclusive camping ticket cannot be knocked.
Reading/ Leeds
The Leeds/ Reading festivals run simultaneously over the English August Bank Holiday weekend offering a mixture of mostly the same bands, so whether you’re up or down the country you won’t miss out.
Appearing this year are a blend of festival veterans to include Foo Fighters and The Cure along with the latest bands comprising of The Vaccines, Florence & the Machine, The Black Keys, The Courteeners and many more.
A weekend camping ticket will set you back around £205, or if you’re a lightweight you can always purchase a day ticket for around £90.
The Reading/ Leeds Festivals run from Friday 24th until Sunday 26th August.
Not too long to go now for the musical summer of a lifetime…enjoy
