Hot Hits & Celeb Bits

Gary Campion

Is it too late for me to say Happy New Year??

How are we at the end of February 2025 already, it feels like only a blink of an eye since I was writing my column for the Christmas issue. At this many pages into this issue, you will have realised that there has been a running theme of 2025 / new year throughout. I’ve pulled together my usual list of latest releases, albums and vinyl reviews along with a list of all the gigs I am going to in the first 6 months of 2025. Enjoy!

Vinyl of the moment...

Kawala - The Kawala Collection - Released 7th Feb

In the vibrant North London music scene, KAWALA’s final mini-album, “The Kawala Collection,” was released on February 7th and it captures their journey beautifully. The new single “Old Me,” co-written with Ed Nash from Bombay Bicycle Club, reflects on the past while maintaining hope for the future.

This collection showcases KAWALA’s signature summer vibe across nine diverse tracks. From the energetic “American Adrenaline” to the catchy “What’s Up?” and the introspective “Time Slipping Away,” it highlights their exceptional songwriting.

As they embark on their last UK tour, including a headlining show at London’s OUTERNET, fans feel bittersweet about their decision to take a break after a legacy of sold-out shows. Personally, discovering they were calling it quits was gutting for me; I fell in love with their music after interviewing and seeing them live last May, and “American Adrenaline” is top of my Spotify list for 2024. By the time you read this, I’ll have experienced their final show in Dublin which you can read about via our socials.

For devoted fans, “The Kawala Collection” is a celebration of their musical journey. Grab the vinyl while you can and let’s give KAWALA the send-off they deserve.

top 5 gig tracks of 2025 (part one):

CYNDI LAUPER

TIME AFTER TIME

A classic timeless track with such heart and meaning one of my faves of all time.

SUGABABES WHEN THE RAIN COMES

The original threes 2023 release, a soulful mid-tempo track with those phenomenal harmonies they’re known for.

SNOW PATROL CHASING CARS

Claimed by the lads to be the purest love song ever written, the intro is instantly recognisable within the first few notes.

JOJO LEAVE (GET OUT)

It may be 20 years old (yes, you read that right!) she is back and is headlining the first day of Mighty Hoopla 2025.

KESHA YOUR LOVE IS MY DRUG Mighty Hoopla 2025 Sunday headliner and now independent artist will be bringing this tune and more to the mainstage.

Here are the 2 forthcoming releases I can’t wait for...