Final Article by Ella Sedman

q youth magazine

GRIMES DEERHUNTER MAC DEMARCO FATHER JOHN MISTY & MANY MORE

introducing:

ALTERNATIVE MUSIC VINTAGE FINDS MUSIC REVIEWS ALBUMS OF 2015 & WHAT WE'RE LISTENING TO

Sonic Bliss Machine

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january 2016

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SONIC BLISS MACHINE 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.

WHAT WE'RE LISTENING TO FEATURING THE LIKES OF GRIMES, FAT WHITE FAMILY, LCD SOUNDSYSTEM, EZREA FURMAN, RADIOHEAD & MANY MORE

COVER STORY

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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.

GIG REVIEW Following the release of their seventh album, we saw the Boston-based band, Deerhunter at our local: brudenell social club in leeds.

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BEST ALBUMS OF 2015 ALTHOUGH WE’RE EAGERLY ANTICIPATING WHAT 2016 HOLDS FOR MUSIC, WE CAN’T HELP BUT MENTION HOW AMAZING 2015 WAS. EXPECT MENTIONS OF FATHER JOHN MISTY, COURTNEY BARNETT and many OTHER, DESERVING ARTISTS

WHEN I GROW UP... Featuring our music inspiration of the month and someone we wanted or still would love to be. January’s pick: Iggy pOP

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Image: Nicola Jaye / www.mcrphotographer.co.uk

Sonic Bliss

Machine

Psychedelic-infused, Burnage brothers Ben and Sam Leeming have been showcasing their alternative sound all over Manchester. Although the brothers may have the same postcode as Mac royalty, the Gallagher brothers, the Leeming’s luckily don’t possess the same sibling rivalry to get in the way of their blissfully

supersonic, music machine. fter only forming in 2014, this new band has truly found their sound. The psychedelicinfused, alternative rock band have already impressed the likes of BBC Introducing and numerous venues across both Manchester and Leeds. Accompanied by bassist Taylor Cole and guitar and synth extraordinaire James Iball, the band have been gathering a dedicated following. With a number of 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, feet up, you can tell the boy’s 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 that were given by their mother, Jan. When discussing their eclectic, hard-to-pin-down sound, a loud debate suddenly breaks out. Ben argues that Sam’s music description of, “surf sounds” is way too vague and simplistic. Ben corrects him, explaining how really their sound stems from 60s bands that use that classic Box Amp noise. One artist who epitomises such a specific sound is their

main influence, The Beatles. Now agreeing over their shared love of the Beatles cover of Anna (Go to Him), which the brothers also covered, harmony is restored. In anticipation of their second EP, their psychedelic-infused, alternative rock sound apparently has an additional shoegaze influence. Seemingly every changing and developing, it would appear the bands sound is too hard to define. But, The Beatles remains the pivotal motif. “Whenever I write something and I’m trying to think of a structure, I always go back to The Beatles... because they’re the kings”, says Ben. Even though Sonic Bliss Machine’s lifespan so far has been short, the brothers have already acquired a unique story with a number of career highlights that they’re more than happy to disclose. Older brother Ben originally started to write and record the first EP on his own. After experimenting with a few ideas, he asked for help from younger brother Sam who played the drums for Ben’s tracks. From that initial input, a solo-project grew and a band slowly took shape. Once gaining the interest of critically acclaimed BBC Introducing Manchester, the track Stepping On Your Toes was played

“If we ever get bored of playing we’ll stop, but I don’t think we ever will” 8

over a number of shows. Through this, the brothers were asked to play an acoustic, live session alongside a radio interview. During the session interview, the boys were asked about their 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 and to get your act together.” With no band to date, Ben and Sam called on the assistance of friends James and Taylor who made the band complete. Brews half empty, the conversation drifts to the band’s most favourable moments. Their 2015 gig supporting Bully, Kid Wave and Fraser A. Gorman quickly becomes a common theme. With Tennessee band Bully recently playing on Conan, Kid Wave being hyped for big things and Fraser A. Gorman’s 2015 album gaining widescale critical acclaim, it’s no surprise the brothers enjoyed playing this gig. “It’s great playing somewhere we would have gone anyway,” says Ben. “Plus we’re always happy to play at the Night and Day.” A prolific venue in the backstreet’s 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 within student central, formally known as Fallowfield. The Thai-themed bar Koh Tao is a slightly different venue to what the boys are used to. A relatively new addition to the Manchester music scene, Koh Tao 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 by the brothers; tonight’s show is yet to be a memorable one. Having just recently played a number of well-received gigs across Manchester, the determined brothers contemplate 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 potent goal, wanting that sense of recognition is incredibly understandable for the brothers. Discussing their shared aspirations, influences and understandings of music, you can see the their determination to break into this highly competitive field. “If we ever get bored of playing we’ll stop, but I don’t think we ever will”, says Ben. “No”, agrees Sam. As the winter sky begins to darken into a highly unattractive, dull grey tone, bassist Taylor joins the brothers for a last-minute rehearsal. Crammed into their homemade studio, a huge array of guitars and pedals 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, 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 tonight. From one basement to another, the venue is an intimate yet thriving one. 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 fake straw, reemphasising the Hawaiian theme (it is not subtitle). Mexican sugar skulls accompany the straw, although tnot quite fitting with the Tikki theme, they ironically match the iconic Sonic Bliss

The Leeming basement

Machine EP cover art. Designed by a close friend of the Leeming family, artist Christian Lea has covered his surrealist artwork all over the Sonic Bliss Machine brand. From gig posters to logos, Lea’s intricate drawings are a labyrinth of colour and hidden meaning. Beers at the ready with the equipment in place, the band begins. The rumbling of Taylor’s bass vibrates the Manchester venue in a Stone Roses, Mani-esque fashion. The bands instrumental intro song is powerful which demands the room’s attention. With previous support coming from the likes of BBC Sound of 2016 nominees and Stockport raised band Blossoms; Sonic Bliss Machine is grasping the music industries attention. Joined by fellow psych-infused, Mancunian band Blossoms, the alternative, Manchester music scene is truly thriving. The band then stir towards that

highly recognisable, niche psych sound. Colourful and full of energy, James’s synth defines the songs whilst showcasing their earlier mentioned, new shoe gaze influence. Synchronised, the four-piece are well rehearsed and comfortable on stage. 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 crumples, his eyes closed for each powerful note. Latest single Mind, Body & Soul is a clear crowd winner, which is no surprise. The set becomes a melody of eclectic sounds that are potent to the ear. With the end of their slot dawning, the brothers perform their first released single, the thing that grabbed Manchester’s attention: Stepping On Your Toes. I found myself agreeing with BBC Introducing host,

Ben, sam, taylor & James

Michelle Hussey’s comment; it was an incredibly catchy chorus. As these mystical, experimental sounds are being radiated, this nearly 6-minute-song goes into a sudden break down. Its almost instant re-birth is scattered allowing each instrument to have it’s own, individual introduction. Now facing each other for the dramatic finale, the Leeming brothers drum and strum to a dramatic, climactic state. With a few final bangs of a drum, the energising set is over. In unison the crowd momentarily shift the location of their pints to applaud in musical satisfaction. Packing away the entirety of their

gear, the band celebrates with pints whilst bassist Taylor rewards himself with two, welldeserved (if not slightly artificially coloured), purple Woo Woo’s. Wavy? Shoe Gazey? Psychesque? Surfery? Although the characterisation of their sound remains unclear, it is clear that Sonic Bliss Machine has something different. New and exciting, this Manchester band’s sound is

blissfully unique. 13

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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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ONLINE esedman7885.wix.com/qyouth www.facebook.com/QYOUTHMAGAZINE/ twitter.com/QYOUTHMAGAZINE

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alternative daily online See more, hear more

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 little bit bizarre show at Brudenell social club “I haven’t heard much of them”. That is probably the one and only line you definitely should not say at Deerhunter gig. With the venue sold-out and secondhand 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 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, projecting an array of ambient sounds. Synth loops adapt and evolve to create an exhibition of electronic-infused songs. Atmospheric with a demanding beat, a unique viewer experience is developed. I can’t help but think I’m lucky to be listening to the unpredictable jumble 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 of that of Ezra Furman (a personal favourite of mine). Deerhunter commence with strong favourites from their new album, my personal favourite Breaker is a highlight with Living My Life and All the Same becoming strong crowd pleaser’s. The sound is clear and defined and fills the entire venue well. Pretty, calming sounds flow from one song to another until a guitar string breaks on Cox’s guitar. The next twenty minutes proceeds with a Chuckle-visiontype charade with fixing the guitar string with the guitar eventually being passed through the crowd to the sound desk at the rear 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 guitar string is eventually replaced, allowing the show to recommence. 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

David Jones/ David Bowie/ Ziggy Stardust/ The Thin White Duke

January 8, 1947- January 10, 2016 Read Full dedication in our February Issue

THE

MUSIC OF

2015 THE ALBUMS THAT MADE 2015 A GREAT YEAR FOR MUSIC >

q youth

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.

HONOURABLE MENTIONS

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

HONOURABLE MENTIONS

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.

When i grow up i want to be...

IGGY POP

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Because has there ever been a better front man? The mastermind behind the stooges, The passenger and lust for life; Iggy pop is one of our childhood heroes, making him our January issue, legendary artist of the month. 26