q youth magazine
GRIMES DEERHUNTER MAC DEMARCO FATHER JOHN MISTY & MANY MORE
introducing:
ALERNATIVE MUSIC VINTAGE FINDS MUSIC VIEWS BEST ALBUMS OF 2015 & WHAT WE'RE LISTENING TO
Sonic Bliss Machine
q youth
january 2016
Q youth contents SONIC BLISS MACHINE page
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q brings you new manchester band featuring the two brothers who are changing the alternative music scene. including an exclusive interview, q discovers what the hype is all about.
COVER STORY 2
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WHAT WE'RE LISTENING TO FEATURING THE LIKES OF GRIMES, FAT WHITE FAMILY, LCD SOUNDSYSTEM, EZREA FURMAN, RADIOHEAD & MANY MORE
VINTAGE FINDS Q presents our favourite vintage finds in music for this month. Whether old favourites or new discoveries, they’re all worth a listen.
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GIG REVIEW: Following the release of their seventh album, we saw the bosten-based band at our local: brudenell social club in leeds.
BEST ALBUMS OF 2015 ALTHOUGH WE’RE EAGERY ANTICIPATING WHAT 2016 HOLDS FOR MUSIC, WE CAN’T HELP BUT MENTION HOW AMAZING 2015 WAS. 2 JOHN MISTY AND COURTNEY BARNETT EXPECT MENTIONS OF FATHER AMONGST MANY OTHER, DESERVING ARTISTS
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Image: Nicola Jaye / www.mcrphotographer.co.uk
Sonic Bliss
Machine
Psychedelic infused, Burnage brothers Ben and Sam Leeming are showcasing their alternative sound all around Manchester. Although the brothers have the same postcode as the Gallagher brothers, the Leeming’s
luckily don’t have the same sibling rivalry to get in the way of their goal.
A
fter only forming in 2014, this new band has truly found their sound. This psychedelic, alternative rock band has already impressed the likes
of BBC Introducing and numerous venues across both Manchester and Leeds. Accompanied by bassist Taylor Cole and guitar/synth extraordinaire James Iball, the band are gathering a dedicated following. With numerous gigs lined up and a new EP on the way, I caught up with brothers Ben and Sam over a brew at their family home… Sat lent back on their chairs, you can tell the boys are at home. Discussing their plans for the afternoon’s band practice and tonight’s gig, the brothers sip their brews out of their initialled “B” and “S” mugs, bought by their mother, Jan. When discussing their eclectic, hard-to-pin-down sound, a loud 7
debate suddenly breaks out. Ben argues Sam’s characterisation of their easily recognisable, “surf sounds” is too vague and explains how it mainly stems from 60s bands such as their main influence, The Beatles. Now agreeing over their shared love of Anna Go to Him (a classic Beatles cover), it become apart their music genre is hard to define. Their psychedelic-infused alternative rock songs, apparently now have an additional shoegaze sound. Even though Sonic Bliss Machine’s lifespan has been short, the brothers have already acquired a unique story and number of exciting career highlights. Originally recording the first EP on his own, older brother Ben got help from Sam to play some drums and from there a band slowly took shape. Once gaining
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“If we ever get bored of playing we’ll stop, but I don’t think we ever will” 9
the interest of critically acclaimed BBC Introducing Manchester, the brothers played an acoustic, live session. During the session interview, the boys were asked about upcoming shows. “They asked us if we had any gigs coming up and we couldn’t give them an answer,” says Ben. “When that happened, they basically had a go at us and said you need to get some gigs, get your act together.” So with the assistance of friends, James and Taylor, the band began to take shape. Brews half empty, the conversation drifts to the band’s most favourable moments. Their Night & Day gig with Bully, Kid Wave and Fraser A. Gorman is a common theme. With Tennessee band Bully recently playing on the Conan, Kid Wave being hyped for big things and Fraser A. Gorman’s 2015 album being rated 8/10 by NME, it’s no surprise the brothers enjoyed playing this gig. “It’s great playing somewhere we would have gone anyway”, Ben adds. “We’re always happy to play at the Night and Day.” A prolific venue in the backstreets of Manchester’s highly alternative Northern Quarter, it is a beloved venue by many Mancunian’s. “It’s a homecoming playing at the Night and Day”, says Sam with
Ben adding, “If we get massive, we’ll come back and play there.” From one Manchester venue to another, tonight’s gig is set to take place in a Thai-themed bar in student central, Fallowfield. A slightly alternative venue to what the boys are used to, appropriately named bar Koh Tao is a relatively new addition to the Manchester music scene but is yet to disappoint. “It should be a nice and intimate show”, says Ben. “The plan is to have as minimal gaps between songs as possible, so we can play a longer set.” A tried as tested technique from the brothers; tonight’s show is set an anticipated one. Having just recently playing a number of well-received gigs across Manchester, the determined duo contemplates their next target. “The goal we wanna reach, is where people in the audience are singing your songs back to you, who you don’t know”, says Ben. “That’s the only goal I care about”. Quite a simple yet powerful goal, wanting that sense of recognition is incredibly understandable for the brothers. Discussing their shared aspirations, influences and understanding of music, you can see their devotion 10
to break into the music industry. As the winter sky begins to darken into a dull grey tone, the brothers are joined by bassist Taylor for a last minute rehearsal. Crammed into their homemade studio, a huge array of guitars, pedals and number of other instruments fill the basement. Looking around, this beautifully quaint space would be any aspiring musician’s dream. Carpet plastered on every wall, it soon becomes apparent why‌ Deep vibrations of the bass amp shake the walls whilst travelling up the
floors, filling the Leeming family home. A small insight of things to come, the interview is postponed, ready to re-commence at Koh Tao. From one basement to another, the venue is intimate yet thriving. Crowds gather for the eagerly anticipated headline act, Sonic Bliss Machine. Gathered on the tiny, darkly lit stage, the brothers set up the last of their equipment. The black walls are plastered with straw, reemphasising the Hawaiian theme. Mexican sugar skulls accompany the straw, although not quite fitting with the Tikki theme;
they ironically match the iconic Sonic Bliss Machine EP cover art. Beers at the ready and equipment in place, they begin. The rumbling sounds of Taylor’s bass guitar vibrate this Manchester venue likewise to those of The Stone’s Mani who brought down all around this musicdevoted city. The bands instrumental intro song is powerful, demanding the attention of everyone in the room. Followed simultaneously by well-known singles such as All Of My Life and You Should Have Seen. The band then stirs towards
their highly recognisable, niche psych sound. Colourful and full of energy, James’s synth defines the songs whilst developing that new shoegaze influence. Synchronised, the four-piece are well rehearsed and comfortable. Into the depths of their set, the brothers become more relaxed; Sam’s long hair is thrust down dramatically with every powerful drumbeat. With the chorus upon them, the energy is at its maximum. Ben’s face crumbles, his eyes closing for the powerful notes. BBC Introducing
“The goal we wanna r is where people in audience are singing songs back to you, you don’t know. T
approved, Mind, Body and Soul is a clear crowd winner, which is no surprise. Facing each other for the dramatic finale of Stepping On Your Toes, the Leeming brothers drum and strum their instruments to a ridiculously fast climax state.
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q youth
grimes We’ve been consistent and loyal fans of Claire Boucher, also known as Grimes. Now with her fourth album Art Angels being released in late 2015, Boucher is still yet to disappoint. Not only do we love Grime’s forever-changing brightly coloured hair and bizarre anime drawings but we also love what this album has to offer. Beautifully innocent yet powerful, songs such as California and Belly of the Beat are on constant repeat amongst our office. Touring the UK from March, grab your tickets quick if you want to join us in the wonderfully unique mind of Grimes.
what we're
Find out what the Q Youth crew have been enjoying
ezra furman Live Ezra Furman is not only a witty, sincere and engaging, but he can also bloody play! Furman’s warm and emotional aura radiated throughout his songs. A fun-filled adventure of his discography, luckily this live experience also transfers to record. Old hits such as My Zero and Q Youth favourite Slacker Adria have recently be joined by those off Furman’s 2015 album Perpetual Motion People. A triumph, album highlights include Wobbly, Restless Year and Ordinary Life.
alice Boman Relatively new to the music scene, Swedish singersongwriter Alice Boman’s soft voice and delicate song structures are a hit with us. Boman’s song Waiting has been a firm favourite for those relaxed afternoons. If you really love this song, listen to it’s PAL remix too.
listening to
this month, from old loves to new discoveries.
radiohead fat white family Following this controversial bands 2013 album, Fat White Family have released their new single Whitest Boy on the Beach. Only a year ahead, their new album is ready to be released this month. If their latest single is anything to go by, it’ll be as grungy, creepy and as haunting beautiful as ever. Live this band is undeniably thought provoking to say the least... Receiving an amazing reaction from the music industry, you have to see Fat White Family to truly understand why. Still in our minds and in our playlists, we’re still loving Is It Raining In Your Mouth and Touch The Leather.
With rumours of another album and possibly even a 2016 Glastonbury performance, we’re in a Radiohead kind-ofmood. Music royalty who also have the best music videos of all time, we’ve been busting out the hits such as Pyramid Song, Everything In Its Right Place, Nude and basically the whole of OK Computer.
lcd soundsystem Similarly to Radiohead, James Murphy and the gang are apparently set to reform in 2016. Two great loves of Q; it should be an excellent year for music. To celebrate, we’re listening to Someone Great, Dance Yrself Clean and Daft Punk Is Playing At My House. Don’t know ‘em? Blast out your soundsystem and listen to them now !!
sonic bliss machine
UPCOMING DATES: 5TH FEB/ THE CASTLE (MANCHESTER) 19TH FEB/360 CLUB (LEEDS) www.facebook.com/sonicblissmachine/
Twitter.com/blissmachine
Soundcloud.com/sonicblissmachine
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VINTAGE FINDS H 1, yO LA TENGO (2000) yOU cAN HAVE IT ALL ALBUM: AND THEN NOTHING TURNED ITSELF INSIDE OUT
2. RODIGUEZ (1971) CLIMB UP ON MY MUSIC ALBUM: COMING FROM REALITY
3. NICK DRAKE (1970) NORTHERN SKY ALBUM: BRYTRT LAYTER
ere at Q Youth, we love not only the here and now, but also the fIrst loves & golden oldies. so delve into our playlist of vintage FINDS AND ENJOY OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE MONTH. EDUCATION CAN BE FUN... RIGHT!?
7. The fLAMING LIPS (1993) SHE DON’T USE JELLY ALBUM: TRANSMISSIONS FROM THE SATELLITE HEART
8. beck (1996) devil’s haircut album: Odelay
4. thE INK SPOTS (1939) IF I DIDN’T CARE aLBUM: UNKNOWN
9. SPARKLEHORSE (2001) IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE ALBUM: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
5. love (1967) you set the scene album: forever changes
6. Elliot smith (1997) say yes album: either/or
10. Mazzy star (1993) blue light album: so tonight that i might see
11. penny & the quarters (Between 1970-1975) you & me album: none
for daily reccomendation visit www.qyouth.co,uk or alternatively visit our facebook or twitter page at /q youth
deerhunter
Written By Ella Sedman
The Boston-based band takes on Leeds in a small, unique and a bit bizarre show at Brudenell social club “I haven’t heard much of them”. That is one and only line you definitely should not say at Deerhunter gig. With the venue sold-out and second-hand tickets selling like gold dust, you could tell the majority of the crowd were going to be long-term fans. But, I couldn’t help the fact my knowledge of Deerhunter so far had been slim. I’d heard the occasional song and actually liked what I knew, but this gig was going to change that. Boston-based band Deerhunter were into the core of their UK tour, meaning the Brudenell Social Club was next on their list. A beautifully quaint venue with a gentleman’s pub-like aesthetic, the Brudenell has developed its own unique student culture. The eccentric, alternative and chicly dressed come from all over Leeds to soak up its charm (and enjoy the ridiculously cheap drinks). So, the perfect venue was set, now for the music. Pints in hand, a male-dominated crowd look upon the stage, waiting for the support act. What? Support? But this is an article about Deerhunter! Well, luckily for you and to my own, personal amazement, Atlas Sound is Deerhunter frontman Bradford Cox’s solo project. In silence, the man himself enters the small stage and starts projecting an array of ambient sounds. Synth loops adapt and evolve to create an array of electronic-infused songs. Atmospheric with a demanding beat, a unique experience is developed. I can’t help but think I’m lucky to be listening to these unpredictable jumbles of sounds that together, form something wonderful. Almost too soon, the atmosphere suddenly changes. The quirky, electronic synth noises are replaced by
the three other members of the band, alongside a new sense of energy. Cox addresses the audience for the first time in his strong American accent. His warm, comforting nature and voice remind to that of Ezra Furman (a personal favourite of mine). Deerhunter commence with strong favourites from their new album, my personal favourite Breaker is a one highlight with Living My Life and All the Same becoming strong crowd pleasers. The sound is clear and defined, filled the entire venue. Pretty, calming sounds flow from one song to another until a guitar string is broke on Cox’s guitar. The next twenty minutes proceeds with a ChuckleVisiontype charade with fixing the guitar string with said guitar eventually being passed through the crowd to the sound desk at the back of the room. You’d assume this long interval was a hindrance but in fact it was hilarious. The band mates take it upon themselves to use this time wisely by interacting with the crowd. By the end we possess personal, Brudenell jokes involving dogs, lost 80’s bands and even venue employees. Witty and truly entertaining, the show must go on and guitar string replaced, the show once more commences. Complex and distorted, the song structures are individualised and new to my ears. Earlier material is accompanied by more, new songs which all go down well. Nearing the end, popular choices including Agoraphobia wrap up the set perfectly. A truly unique experience involving gorgeous sounds, lovely people and a new adoration for Deerhunter made this gig triumphant.
you can Listen to Deerhunter’s 2015 album Fading Frontier on spotify and itunes now
Q Youth's BEST ALBUMS OF 2015 With 2016 fInally UPON US, THE Q YOUTH FAMILY WANTED TO THANK OUR FAVOURITE ARTISTS FROM 2015 WHO MADE IT THE YEAR FOR ALTERNATIVE MUSIC
I LOVE YOU HONEYBEAR Father John Misty Josh Tillman’s second album I Love You Honeybear had us loving him this year. Tillman’s lyrics worked as beautiful narratives into the depths of his emotions and experiences. Like poetry to our ears, Tillman made us want to dance, cry and sing in 2015.
ANOTHER ONE Mac demarco Having a rough day? Whack on Mac Demarco’s Another One. Just as charming and as beautiful as ever, Mac Demarco continued to radiate a sense of simpler and happier times through his music in 2015. A brilliant fourth edition to his discography, it’s no wonder it made our fInal list.
SOMETIMES I SIT AND THINK, AND SOMETIMES I JUST SIT Courtney Barnett It’s been a massive year for Courtney Barnett, gaining worldwide critical acclaim for her album whilst also acquiring a massive following. Similarly to Father John Misty, our Aussie queen was also a master of lyrics. Story-like with abstract narratives, Barnett’s rockinfused album was angry, honest and inspiring.
white men are black men too young fathers Quite different to the other albums featured within this list, we couldn’t help but mention Young Father’s 2015 album. After only just releasing their Mercury Prize winning album in 2014, the boys have been busy. Completely unique, their alternative-rap and electronic, indie pop sound is revolutionary. For someone new and exciting, Young Fathers are a must.
gREY TICKLES, BLACK PRESSURE JOHN GRANT John Grant has impressed us over the years with a number of albums but his 2015 Grey Tickles, Black Pressure was truly bizarre and as wonderful as we expected. Electronic-infused, dream pop, this album had us addicted to his soulful voice and heavy synths.
HONOURABLE MENTIONS