Music News Monthly - February 2023

Editor: David Weddle

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IZZY BIZU

Starting off 2023 on top form, British gem Izzy Bizu explores the importance of friendships in her latest offering “Walk Away” - released through Hi-Tea Records.

Co-written with rising hitmaker Kal Lavelle (Ed Sheeran) and produced by Lloyd Hinshelwood (Mabel, Kelli Leigh) and Theo Douke (Sam Tompkins, RAYE), “Walk Away” comes together as an uplifting, empowering tune assisted by emerging vocalist Joe Devlin.

Of course, it’s Izzy’s signature, unrivalled vocal stylings which always elevate any track the Londoner graces to new heights; her sweet yet raw, powerfully emotive tones effortlessly soar over the breezy and mellow production of “Walk Away” , offering a uniquely enjoyable listening experience when compared to the playful, high-energy pop of October’s release “DUMB” .

Izzy Bizu says that: “‘Walk Away’ is about two friends giving advice to each other about how they should be treated in relationships. Know your worth and walk away if you're being held back - good energy is contagious.”

“Walk Away” follows on from Izzy’s huge collaboration in January with acclaimed Brazilian DJ Vintage Culture for their track “If I Live Forever”; written by Izzy about the loss of her father, the hopeful and euphoric “If I Live Forever” achieved 18 New Music Friday spots (incl. US & UK) as well as features across Spotify’s Mint, Dance Paradise, Electronic Rising and New Dance Beats playlists – taking its place as the latest addition to the vocalist’s envious catalogue of massive dance hits.

Initially catapulting to mainstream popularity with the commercial success of her hit “White Tiger” – which continues to connect with global audiences after going viral in recent times across social media – Izzy Bizu has maintained a strong presence with audiences, producing a consistent stream of well-received solo hits while collaborating over the years with a versatile pool of talent such as ODESZA, Chris Martin, HONNE, Jords, D Double E, Ferreck Dawn, Milky Chance and Tom Enzy.

With the critically acclaimed, award-winning artist taking time these past few years to hone in on her songwriting craft, “DUMB” and “Walk Away” signal a major pop comeback for Izzy. Backed by a wealth of new material helmed during sessions across London, Nashville and LA, “Walk Away” continues to mark this exciting new chapter in Izzy’s career as a celebrated mainstay in British pop and beyond.

CAITY BASER

"Caity Baser is fast becoming pop's wittiest new songwriter" – NME

Caity Baser has announced her new EP. The 'Thanks For Nothing, See You Never' EP will feature six tracks including 'X&Y' and 'Kiss You' - and was released 17th February via EMI Records/Chosen Music. To celebrate the announcement, Caity has today released a brand new track - taken from the forthcoming EP. '2020s' is available to stream and download now here.

Tracklisting for Caity Baser's 'Thanks For Nothing, See You Never' EP is as follows:

1. Pretty Boys

2. X&Y

3. Kiss You

4. Feel More Okay

5.

6. 2020s

CAITY BASER

RELEASES BRAND NEW 6-TRACK EP

'THANKS FOR NOTHING, SEE YOU NEVER' EP

Of the EP, Caity says: "I am SO FRICKN HAPPY I can finally tell you all about my new EP. It's full of absolute bangers...some you know some you don't. But I love them all and I hope you do too xx"

Tickets for Caity's anticipated 'Thanks For Nothing, See You Never' UK tour are also available today. It was announced earlier this week that tickets for all the shows have been capped at affordable prices, a decision made by Caity herself to ensure tickets to her shows are affordable and accessible to all. The 'Thanks For Nothing, See You Never' tour will take place throughout April and May, including a performance at London's O2 Forum Kentish Town - Caity's biggest show to date.

Dates for Caity's 'Thanks For Nothing, See You Never' tour are as follows:

Friday 7th April - Komedia, Brighton

Saturday 8th April - SWX, Bristol

Monday 10th April - O2 Institute 2, Birmingham

Tuesday 11th April - Academy 2, Manchester

Thursday 13th April - SWG3 Studio

Warehouse, Glasgow

Friday 14th April - Northumbria Uni, Newcastle

Sunday 16th April - Green Room, Dublin

Monday 17th April - Stylus, Leeds

Wednesday 19th April - Engine Rooms, Southampton

Thursday 20th April - O2 Forum Kentish Town, London

That's What Friends Are For

MIMI WEBB

Breakout singer-songwriter Mimi Webb releases "Roles Reversed," – LISTEN HERE – the latest track off her forthcoming debut album, Amelia, arriving March 3

"Roles Reversed" premiered exclusively yesterday on Apple Music's New Music Daily with Zane Lowe. Mimi's vocals are filled with longing and emotion as she takes the listener on a journey of hurt and being left behind. The song was written by Mimi Webb, Connor McDonough, Riley McDonough, Toby McDonough, Ryan Daly, CASTLE and produced by Connor McDonough & Ryan Daly.

The track follows Mimi's latest smash hit "Red Flags," which has garnered over 19 million streams since its release and continues to climb the charts currently peaking at #30 at US Top 40 radio and #35 at Hot AC radio. Mimi performed the song on Late Show with Stephen Colbert and The Graham Norton Show.

Mimi's highly anticipated debut album, Amelia, will feature 12 tracks including her smash hits "House On Fire," "Ghost of You," and latest single "Red Flags." The album is titled after her full first name, Amelia, which will give fans insight into both sides of the budding star- Amelia, the girl from the UK countryside who loves to be at home with her family, friends, and dogs; and Mimi, the pop artist who loves to be up on stage traveling the world. Amelia is available for pre-order now.

MIMIWEBB RELEASES "ROLESREVERSED"

In just two years the breakout artist has racked up over 900 million global streams to date, and multiple chart-topping tracks including "House on Fire," "Good Without," and most recently "Red Flags." Mimi has performed at the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in London, numerous festivals such as Capital FM's Summertime Ball, Isle of Wight Festival, and Montreux Jazz Festival, and on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Graham Norton Showand ELLEN. She was nominated Best New Artist at the 2023 BRIT Awards and has garnered praise from the likes of British Vogue, Rolling Stone, Harper's BAZAAR, GRAMMY.com, and Billboard. Mimi shows no signs of slowing down as she gears up for the release of her debut album.

Following the album's release, she will hit the road for her 2023 headline tour, The Amelia Tour. The 31date tour will make stops across Europe and the UK, kicking off on March 14 in Zurich, Switzerland at Plaza continuing with stops in Berlin, Oslo, Paris, Manchester and more before concluding on April 24 in London, UK at O2 Academy Brixton. Multiple shows have already sold-out including Dublin and all UK dates. Full tour routing below. Tickets are available now at mimiwebb.com.

2023 THE AMELIA TOUR DATES - UK:

April 1UEANorwich, UK *sold-out

April 3O2 City HallNewcastle, UK *sold-out

April 4O2 AcademyGlasgow, UK *sold-out

April 6Ulster HallBelfast, UK *sold-out

April 10Guild of StudentsLiverpool, UK *sold-out

April 11O2 Victoria WarehouseManchester, UK *soldout

April 14O2 AcademySheffield, UK *sold-out

April 15O2 AcademyLeeds, UK *sold-out

April 17Rock CityNottingham, UK *sold-out

April 18O2 AcademyBirmingham, UK *sold-out

April 20O2 AcademyBristol, UK *sold-out

April 21PavilionsPlymouth, UK *sold-out

April 22O2 AcademyBournemouth, UK *sold-out

April 24O2 Academy BrixtonLondon, UK *sold-out

CLASSLESS ACT

CLASSLESS ACT

PAYS HOMAGE TO DAVID BOWIE WITH DOUBLE-A-SIDE SINGLE

"All The Young Dudes" and "Starman"

With the David Bowie documentary "Moonage Daydream" shortlisted as Best Documentary for the 2023 Academy Awards, Classless Act, one of the hottest new rock bands to emerge in 2022, pays tribute to Bowie with its upcoming double-A-side digital single, "All The Young Dudes," and "Starman." The tracks will be available via all DSPs today, February 3 (Better Noise Music).

"When we learned there was a documentary about the creative, spiritual and musical journey of the great David Bowie, we wanted to pay our tribute, acknowledge his genius, his artistry, his influence and our gratitude to him," said band vocalist Derek

Day

"We've always had a few cover songs in our set; in the beginning, it was out of necessity as we didn't have enough of our own songs. Now it's our choice. Whether it was Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, Guns N' Roses, Queen, or many others, they represent a road map of our influences, our roots and how we've gotten 'here' musically David Bowie played a major role "

Twenty-twenty-two was a true break-out year for Classless Act. The band - Day, guitarists Dane Pieper and Griffin Tucker, bassist Franco Gravante, and Chuck McKissock on drums - toured the U S with Dorothy on her Spring "Gifts From The Holy Ghost" trek, released its debut album, Welcome To The Show, in June, receiving rave press reviews from North America to the U.K. and Europe, South America and Australia, hit the North American road in July on the summer's biggest tour, The Stadium Tour, opening for Motley Crüe and Def Leppard, split the month of December between supporting Giovannie and The Hired Guns, and their own headline dates on its "The Most Wonderful Tour of the Year," and wrapped up the year with the release of Welcome To The Acoustic Show EP, that featured stripped-down versions of five songs from their album.

As BraveWords' Jonathan Smith wrote about Classless Act in his Stadium Tour review, "Led by highly charismatic and off-the-wall frontman Derek Day, who could be best described as a composite of Robert Plant's high-end brilliance, Roger Daltry's power, Axl Rose's grittiness, and David Lee Roth's stage presence, their comparatively short set, set the air ablaze."

ClasslessActL-R:ChuckMcKissock,DanePieper,DerekDay,GriffinTucker,FrancoGravante,PhotoCredit:GlenLaFerman

INHALER

INHALER have shared their new single 'If You're Gonna Break My Heart' ahead of releasing their eagerly awaited second album 'Cuts & Bruises' on February 17th via Polydor Records.

'If You're Gonna Break My Heart' is the third single to be unveiled from 'Cuts & Bruises', following the uplifting'Love Will Get You There' and last summer's euphoric anthem 'These Are The Days'.

The band explain how the rootsy, piano powered 'If You're Gonna Break my Heart' took its inspiration, "Whilst on tour in America last year we were listening to a lot of music by some of the great American writers such as Bob Dylan, The Band, Bruce Springsteen etc. Listening to these artists while travelling on big open highways resonated with us and helped shape this song into making us sound more like a live band than we had before."

'Cuts & Bruises' is the follow-up to Inhaler's debut album 'It Won't Always Be Like This' which debuted at no.1 in both the UK & Irish Official Charts. Released in July 2021, 'It Won't Always Be Like This' became the fastest-selling debut album on vinyl by any band this century and saw Inhaler become the first Irish group to top the Album Charts with a debut in 13 years.

Following a prolonged period of touring, the band's sophomore album began to take shape in Dublin rehearsal space The Nunnery over Christmas 2021, with the four band members – vocalist and guitarist Elijah Hewson, bassist Robert Keating, guitarist Josh Jenkinson and drummer Ryan McMahon – writing and rehearsing a brace of new songs.

"It was just the four of us jamming in the live room and trying to come up with ideas on the spot," says Keating. "Playing live for a few months beforehand really helped shape what kind of direction we wanted to take it in."

'Cuts & Bruises' features 11 tracks and was produced by Inhaler's long term collaborator Antony Genn at his northwest London studio Narcissus.

The tracklisting is:

Just To Keep You Satisfied Love Will Get You There So Far, So Good These Are The Days

If You're Gonna Break My Heart Perfect Storm

Dublin In Ecstasy

When I Have Her On My Mind

Valentine

The Things I Do Now You Got Me

INHALER embark on a run of sold-out UK dates in February before heading to the US for a monthlong headline tour. They then join Arctic Monkeys on their European tour ahead of playing their biggest UK headline shows to date at Manchester's Victoria Warehouse (May 19th) and London's Brixton Academy (May 20th).

Summer will see INHALER support Harry Styles at Slane Castle and Sam Fender at St James Park as well as performing at TRNSMT and Reading & Leeds festival.

UK

boygenius

boygenius

"The band instantly became the "Infinity War" of female-led indie-rock outfits...it's not your average vision of feminist empowerment via extreme independence" – Vogue

"The sizable talent and personalities of Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus come together for a harmonious, confrontational, and all too brief EP" – Pitchfork

"an astonishing record" – NME

"Rock's best super group" – Daily Beast

Following news that they will be performing at this year's Coachella music festival, boygenius have announced their long awaited return with the release of three singles from their upcoming album the record via Polydor Records / Interscope: "$20," "Emily I'm Sorry," and "True Blue." The album is due out March 31, 2023 and marks the first full length project for the band.

boygenius, the acclaimed trio comprised of Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus, released their self-produced debut EP boygenius together back in 2018. The release of "$20," "Emily I'm Sorry," and "True Blue" marks the first new music from the band since 2020, when they released a handful of demos from the recording sessions for the EP to raise money for charitable organizations in their respective hometowns on behalf of the Downtown Women's Center of Los Angeles, OUTMemphis, and Mutual Aid Distribution Richmond.

The long-awaited album is produced and written by boygenius. It was recorded at Shangrila Studios in Malibu, California.

boygenius will perform at this year's Coachella Music Festival on Saturday, April 15th and Saturday, April 22nd.

THE KAVES

'THE KAVES'

The Kaves are the 4 piece alternative indie/rock band hailing from Glasgow in Scotland consisting of Dave MacDiarmid on guitar and lead vocals, brothers Liam Prior on lead guitar and Sean Prior on bass guitar, and Evan Hunter on Drums

The Kaves who formed in late 2019 released their debut single 'Migraines' in September 2021 followed by a run of shows in their native Scotland before releasing their second single 'What's In Your Head?' in March 2022 After a sold out headline show at Glasgow's infamous venue, Nice 'n' Sleazys in the spring, The Kaves headed back into the studio to record their hat trick single of 'Premonitions' in October 2022 and which received high end radio play from the likes of Sirius XM in America as well as plays all over the world in Australia and Canada and South Africa

The Kaves, although only relatively still in their infancy as a band, have made impressive inroads with their single releases to date, showcasing them in headline gigs in and around Scotland. The single 'Premonitions' was launched by the band at their headline show with new music taste makers This Feeling at their Glasgow Broadcast gig and was also performed by the band during the Man City vs Liverpool football match.

The band have also received critical acclaim from the music press such as:

RGM - "an outstanding effort can't wait for more to come"

When The Horn Blows - "They've relit the flame of that classic indie rock sound."

Our Sound Music - "They bring energy in opulence and maintain complacency in scruples We are impressed by this band Just imagine what they'll achieve in years ahead "

Spruced Up Reviews - "Glasgow's musical chops have never been in question, there's no denying there's something in the water up there... and it looks like they're at it again with The Kaves "

The brand new single from The Kaves '1000 White Lies' is a beautiful melodic offering with its slow and measured strumming guitar intro. It immediately gives the listener a sense of the track having been deliberately stripped back to allow the wistful lyricism with their contrasting gravelly vocals to come into full effect. The chorus hook of "Tell me a 1000 white lies and I'll be satisfied.... Tell me a 1000 more truths and I'll run away from you" tells a story. There's a sense of knowing, of foreboding but begging not to be told the inevitable truth. The track then takes a turn as it builds and bubbles into a crescendo for the final act, the pace picking up in a certain defiance before a final mic drop sudden fade out moment, signalling 'The END' - epic stuff indeed!

The band have said of the new single: "'1000 White Lies' was written around this time last year It's our first real stripped back acoustic tune Having played it live at the likes of King Tuts and Nice n Sleazy, it got a real positive reaction live, so we decided it was time to release it as a single!

Essentially the track is about having a hard time facing the reality of certain parts of life Whether that be in relationships, your passions, goals or growing up Not having the ability to embrace the truth as it can be tough to accept so believing all the "White Lies" is sometimes easier to deal with "

YOU'VEHEARDGLASGOWGREATSSUCHASPRIMAL SCREAM,BELLEANDSEBASTIAN,FRANZFERDINAND, MOGWAI,SIMPLEMINDS...NOWWELCOMETHENEXT GENERATION-

OPENARMS

'Let'sJustLeaveIt'

'Lets Just Leave It' is Open Arms' first release of 2023 and heralds a new exciting era for the band The encompassing music video is a testament to the band's creativity and drive Written in 2020 following the end of the first covid lockdown, the song was created remotely 'Let's Just Leave It' revolves around repeated loop sections of percussion and bass which sit beneath a bed of harsh guitar and electronic sample elements. The different vocal styles and effects on the track reflect the chaotic narrative of the lyrics.

Open Arms frontman and lyricist Ben Farmer on the track: "'Let's Just Leave It' is self-referential, it's a record of a time in my life where things seemed a bit all over the place. One particular line which I think sums the song up is in the second verse; "I try to follow my dreams but I can't sleep". I feel like this line really accurately captures how a lot of us feel having spoken to people about trying to get more from life than just a 9 - 5 job which inevitably takes over everything else. More specifically, the song deals with the apathy I have towards certain social situations There's nothing worse than building yourself up for a party or an event or something and it being totally anticlimactic - and the worst part is everyone else in the room usually knows it too So you're just there, and that environment creates friction and a tense atmosphere I think the phrase "Let's Just Leave It" is quite emotionally loaded Without giving too much away, you could probably guess the context in which I said this which then inspired the song."

Amalgamating addictive anthemic-pop with chic dancerock, Birmingham's OPEN ARMS first came to attention pre-pandemic with their critically acclaimed debut single,'Telescope'.

The Birmingham-based four-pieces debut EP, 'Sunflowers' spawned the fan favourite track 'Honey' and since then Open Arms have released a string of popular singles including 'Wilderness' and their catchy 2022 release 'Wherever I Go' The band recently released their acclaimed third EP, 'Colours' which was released in November 2022.

Open Arms are composed of frontman Ben Farmer, guitarist Sam Barratt, bassist Leigh Dawes and drummer Drew Peters. Dubbed the promising face of new music, they are an enthralling live band and have plans to tour the UK in 2023. Open Arms have reached the quarter finals of Hot Vox's Isle Of Wight Festival Competition which takes place in March.

"Carving the landscape of Anthemic Indie-Pop - these guys would be well suited to Radio 1" - Alex Noble (BBC Introducing).

"Open Arms have become synonymous with anthemic dance rock, and they are prone to incorporating a chicdance element to their soundscape which is akin to popular bands such as The 1975 and Peach Pit " - Our Sound Music

"We believe that this is a fantastically strong EP that will do wonders for Open Arms as they finish 2022 on an indisputable high note whilst setting their sights on raising the benchmark even further in 2023" - Pillar Artists

You can cram a lot into forty years, and there are few that have managed to do more in four decades than the masters of Metal, W.A.S.P. Right from the start, they were unafraid to court controversy with their antics during live shows, earning W A S P a reputation for shocking live performances The Shock Rockers were banned from several countries at one point and even caused religious organizations, Local City Councils, Parliaments, and the Washington D C Senate to hold hearings in an effort to bar this group from selling records and trashing stages everywhere they played.

Fast forward forty years, several lineup changes, and sixteen studio albums later, and W.A.S.P. are back on the road, bringing their sensational live show to longtime fans and new fans alike. With a lifetime of hard hitting tracks to choose from, W.A.S.P. fans can be sure of one thing, they are there to rock, and rock they will

Frontman and founding member Blackie Lawless has been at the helm since the start, and his writing and performance over that time have crafted the unique sound that W A S P are renowned for With millions of record sales under their belt and numerous sold-out shows, W.A.S.P. have gone from strength to strength and show no sign of slowing down.

As part of their 40th Anniversary tour, W.A.S.P. will be hitting UK shores in March. Blackie Lawless will be joined by longtime bandmates Mike Duda on bass, guitarist Doug Blair on guitar, and Aquiles Priester on beating the hell out of the drums. Taking the fans all the way back to where it all started as well as giving fans a chance to see their extraordinary stage show

So join W A S P for this very special 40th Anniversary World Tour

Witness Live the Winged Assassins spectacle of “SHOCK and ROLL” as they take you Back Back to the Beginning!

MARCH 2023

17th Manchester Academy

18th Wolverhampton KK’s Steel Mill

19th Nottingham Rock City

21st Glasgow O2 Academy

22nd Newcastle O2 City Hall

23rd Bristol O2 Academy

24th London Roundhouse

Tickets are available from www Myticket co uk

JACOBY

LONDON PSYCH-ROCK OUTFIT JACOBY

ARE BACK WITH BRAND NEW SINGLE AFTER BEING NAMED BY LOUDER THAN WAR AS THE "BEST NEW BAND IN THE SOUTH" IN THEIR 23 GROUPS TO WATCH IN 2023 FEATURE LIST

JACOBY are the London based 5 piece psychedelic rock band consisting of Tommy Overington on lead vocals, Vincent Esteve on Guitars, Alex Combe on Bass guitar, Jess Rozman on Keyboardas and backing vocals and Greg Edwards on Drums.

JACOBY who formed in 2020 took inspiration for their name from the cult TV series character. They are a psych drenched rock n roll band imagined out of its members collective dreams. All five members of this band have come together bringing a unique skill and dimension to the group resulting in something that is so fresh and exciting, it'll blow your mind.

Being no strangers to the live circuit however, the band have enjoyed sold out gigs in their own right at the likes of such renowned venues as the Amersham Arms in London, the Rocksteady in Dalston, The Beehive and The Fiddlers Elbow all in the countries capital and they've also performed at Gabefest and the International Pop Overthrow Festival at the Cavern Club in Liverpool.

The band's debut single 'Freedom Ain't No Sin' was released in December 2022 receiving praise and airplay from the likes of BBC 6 Music and although still gaining momentum in its own right, the band have wasted no time in cracking on with it and getting another single release in the bag with the announcement of the release of 'Do The Right Thing' which is out on the 27th January 2023.

The band also started 2023 by notably being named by Louder Than War as one of their hotly tipped ones to watch bands of 2023.

Jacoby have said of 'Freedom Ain't No Sin'

"This track was written around the time of lockdown. It was a weird time, people were losing their minds and we were all arguing with each other. The government was taking the piss towards the end. It wasn't just Covid which inspired it though. The big Brexit blag plus all the controversy regarding social media which was highlighted in that Netflix documentary really showed how we're all controlled and manipulated by those in powerful positions. The message of the song I guess is to try to keep your head amongst the madness."

Musically the track is a smorgasbord melting pot of creative genius, withs its synth reverbs, electric guitars and direct lyricism, it'll have you riled up and ready to go doing 0-60 in 5 seconds.

The next release 'Do The Right Thing' is a full throttle high octane belter of pure jangly melodic indie pop perfection. There's a touch of nostalgia with the organ sounds and 60's vibes throughout.The chorus hooks will have you singing along from the second listen as you rush back to hit that repeat button and get your groove on once more.

Both 'Freedom Ain't No Sin' and 'Do The Right Thing' were recorded at the world famous Rockfield Studios in Wales (Oasis, Iggy Pop, Black Sabbath, Queen and many more) and were produced by Tim Lewis who goes under the pseudonym of Thighpaulsandra. Lewis has worked with greats such as Spiritualized and Julian Cope and is currently part of Tim Burgess' band, The Charlatans, as well as playing keys for the band Hawkwind amongst other things.

Both singles are taken from the band's upcoming album 'Shamanic Ecstasy' which is due for release in May 2023.

The band have said of the single: "'Do The Right Thing' is all about breaking bad habits and stepping up to the plate. It's a short life. Don't be left behind sitting in the same shit pub having the same conversations that you were having 10 years ago. Be the best version of you, you can be."

Upcoming Gig Dates

04/03/23 - Fiddlers Elbow Camden

May/June - International Pop Overthrow Festival at The Cavern Club Liverpool

08/07/23 - Jackfest at the Holroyd, Guildford

BROCK PYTEL

Ex-Doughboys Drummer Brock Pytel

Releases Introspective Power Pop Single

Accompanying the new single is Pytel's video for Anemic Heart, filmed and edited by prolific Vancouver artist RD Cane. The video features blurry cityscapes, fires and idyllic beach scenes that compliment Pytel's melancholic lyrics and harmonies, painting the contrast of a love gained, then lost.

In the years between the sessions for the singles and their subsequent releases, the recordings fell into an extended dormancy. Pytel was buried under seemingly endless hours working in Vancouver's film industry where eventually the stress and lack of sleep caught up with him.

Brock Pytel, best known as the singing drummer for late 80's Montreal pop-punks The Doughboys, has just released his new solo single, Anemic Heart. The single is the follow up to his 2022 single, Hurrah Hooray.

The Vancouver transplant's two latest singles were both from a session he did in 2011 at Montreal's Hotel2Tango with Howard Bilerman (Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Arcade Fire) after some Doughboys reunion tour dates with The Foo Fighters. The track features two of his former bandmates, Jonathan Cummins on the Jazzmaster, and Jon "Bond Head" Asencio on bass (both of whom are in Montreal's The Low Sixes) and was mastered by Ronan Chris Murphy (Gwar, King Crimson). The song meanders from jangly verses that seem to be pulled from The Rolling Stone's "Their Satanic Majesty's Request" into melodic choruses that call to mind 90's pop crossovers like The Fluid or Afghan Whigs.

Reflecting on his mortality, (after serious health issues in 2020) Pytel explained, "One of the things that really hit me at that time was how little music I'd put out into the world compared to how big a part of my life making music is. I was really motivated to get things going in that regard. These digital singles are me clearing my plate, so to speak, and making room for the new.

When things seem to be lagging with the SLIP~ons (waiting for mixes, etc.) it helps with the frustration of working on getting these songs out." With renewed vigor and determination, Pytel plans to complete more solo singles from the H2T sessions in the months ahead, and unleash a 5-song vinyl EP of his power pop band SLIP~ons in Summer 2023.

ANCHOR LANE

4th February 2023

Anchor Lane, a three piece rock band from Glasgow, have been touring the UK in support of their brand new album, 'Call This A Reality?'. On Saturday, February 4th, it was Newcastle's turn to get an earful of the album live and in person. On a cold Saturday night, in a seemingly empty business park on the outskirts of Newcastle, something was brewing.

Turns out a lot of beer was brewing as well as an eclectic mix of indie and rock music as Anarchy Brewery played host to Anchor Lane on their UK tour.

The band was due to play at a different venue but had to make a last minute change due to unforeseen issues.

Squeezing the band in to perform before Dean Parker, who was headlining that night, all involved helped ensure that the Geordie Anchor Lane fans didn't miss out on their dose of hard hitting rock. Taking to the stage a few minutes after Bristol band Adult Leisure who put on a great show, Anchor Lane frontman Connor greeted the crowd with "Newcastle, what's happening?' before kicking off the shortened set with 'Stutter' which lifted the tempo of the night.

Despite the change of venue and having to slot themselves into someone else's gig, there was little doubt that this was 100% an Anchor Lane show, and the lads were there to rock out.

Conor, sporting his Scotland football shirt and bright red Mohawk-esque haircut, was full of energy and filled the entire stage with his dancing. 'Call This A Reality', their album's namesake, was amazing live, and just as you would expect from a band like Anchor Lane, the energy levels were kept high as they belted out 'I've Been Waiting ' after thanking Dean and the venue. With the band's party track 'The Mischievous Song', getting the crowd moving there was no sign of the band tiring as they rocked out.

The Glaswegian rockers may have only had around half an hour, but they crammed so much into that short time. With Lawrence giving a stellar performance on the guitar and Graeme grinning from ear to ear as he bashed the living hell out of the drums, Newcastle were treated to a show that was definitely memorable for all the right reasons.

Just seven tracks, but boy oh, boy oh, boy did they rock the ruddy socks of Anarchy Brewery! Topping off the night with 'I Don't Have Another Soul To Pour', Anchor Lane left the crowd wanting more. Hopefully, Newcastle won't have to wait too long before the lads return to the city.

Get your mitts on a copy of ' Call This A Reality' which has already made an impact on the Official Charts. www.anchorlanemusic.com

ADULT LEISURE

HANNAH GRACE

HANNAH GRACE

‘AT 28’

Soulful Welsh talent Hannah Grace continues to lay her soul bare in “At 28”, the second single from the tastemakerapproved vocalist’s forthcoming Devoted EP.

An incredibly stunning stripped back number, “At 28” is another beautiful reminder of the intricate delicacies of Hannah Grace’s exquisite music. Refreshingly honest and raw in its lyrical perspective, the sole piano production sets the stage for Grace’s signature silky vocals to dazzle in all their glory. Through soaring highs and emotional lows, “At 28” takes shape as a grippingly powerful ballad, written about figuring life out in your late 20s.

Hannah Grace made the following statement about “At 28”: “‘At 28’ is a song about growing up when you’re already supposed to be ‘grown up’. I wrote it at a time in my life when everything seemed uncertain. Sometimes, we’re made to feel like we need to have it all figured out as soon as we're past the age of 25 – but I definitely don’t. I wrote this song all about this exact feeling. I am so excited for it to be out in the world; hopefully it can speak to people and reassure them that even though life can be hard, we don't have to fit into a set way of being happy at a set time or place.”

“At 28” is the second serving of Hannah Grace’s Devoted EP, due out this summer via buzzy indie label Frictionless Music as the official follow-up to Grace’s critically acclaimed debut album Remedy – following on from January’s “Silver Lining”, which earnt four spots across Spotify’s New Music Friday

global lists and the platform’s stylish New Pop UK collection, as well as additional support from MTV UK and BBC Radio Wales.

With over 50M streams to her name, Hannah Grace writes songs to escape into, with a unique blending of soul, jazz, folk and pop sounds. Famously infiltrating mainstream consciousness with her power ballad cover of Fatboy Slim’s “Praise You”, the track was used for multiple global ad campaigns, including Lloyds Bank in the UK and most notably Lancôme (starring Julia Roberts).

Grace has proven equally popular on the live circuit since being in the industry, counting the likes of Hozier, Seal, Jess Glynn, Train and Gabrielle Aplin as some of the talent she’s opened for over the years –as well as an unforgettable set before the legendary Barbra Streisand in London’s Hyde Park.

Earning a wealth of tastemaker support for her work from the likes of Notion, Wonderland, Rollacoaster, Clash, Paste and Atwood, Hannah Grace has also been championed by the one and only Lady Gaga for her soothing, evocative creations.

With activities firming up on the live scene via two upcoming headline shows in London and Cardiff, “At 28” is an exemplary offering from Hannah Grace which once again proves the capabilities of this insightful and wildly talented musician –stay tuned for additional singles and of course the full Devoted EP still to come.

DOCKSUNS

DOCKSUNS RELEASE NEW SINGLE 'REAL THING'

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The Sunderland based four-piece Docksuns release 'Real Thing', their biggest sounding single to date on March the 3rd. The track follows up last year's acclaimed 'Nile Street' EP. The fast-paced and energy filled 'Real Thing' is the Wearsiders finest work to datewith an infectious opening guitar line and immediate vocals, the song builds at pace into a catchy, made for radio chorus.

MIxed and recorded at their hometown's Motorhouse Studio by Vanderbilt legend Jordan Miller, 'Real Thing' was written by Docksuns frontman James Baxter with a clear message of "no regrets".

James continued: "..the song re-lives a scene from a night out in Sunderland town centre. It is about going home alone or with someone who might give you that feeling of regret in more sober times. The overall message is live life with no regrets and sort it out in the morning."

Docksuns formed in 2018 and have since shared the stage with Scouting For Girls, The Sherlocks and Shaun Ryder. The band have played sold out shows in the northeast, with the latest, in Newcastle, taking place at the start of the year. Docksuns are confirmed for this year's Stockton Calling Festival in April and they play their own special headline show on May the 6th at Independent in Sunderland.

Docksuns are the aforementioned James Baxter (lead vocals/guitar), Stephen Keogh (guitar/vocals), Adam Dawkins (bass guitar/vocals) and Glenn Laws (drums). Their ambition is to play The Glastonbury Festival in Sunderland AFC shirts.

THE BUG CLUB

The Bug Club - surely by now a shoo-in for everybody's favorite three-piece garage band from Wales - have signed to We Are Busy Bodies for North American reissues of their debut full-length album Green Dream In F# and their 2021 mini-LP Pure Particles, both out on colour vinyl April 14th. The Bug Club's name does a good job of introducing the band and their music: a tight-knit, collaborative effort focussed on telling tales of the everyday that we often take for granted, shot through with humour and riffsa-plenty.

Comprising the creative trio of Sam Willmett (guitar/vocals), Tilly Harris (bass/vocals) & Dan Matthew (drums), The Bug Club formed in 2016 in the little-known rock n' roll hotbed that is Caldicot, Monmouthshire. The band were signed by Bingo Records in Autumn 2020 and released their first single 'We Don't Need Room For Lovin' in Feb 2021. EPs 'Launching Moondream One' and 'Pure Particles' followed, along with standalone releases 'Intelectuals' and 'Two Beauties', building up to the release of debut album 'Green Dream in F#' by October 2022.

Initially championed by BBC 6 Music's Marc Riley, along with Adam Walton and Huw Stephens on Radio Cymru, The Bug Club have since earned the support of DJs, fellow artists and press worldwide. Sold-out tours across the UK and in Europe paved the way for a 2023 which will see the band play further afield to an ever-growing loyal fanbase, who can look forward to a number of new releases from the trio this year. Three groovy peas in a far-out pod!

Riding atop drummer Dan Matthew's relentlessly solid foundation, Green Dream in F# packs in 14 tracks covering favourite The Bug Club topics including space, small town life, love and swearing. Sam and Tilly's playing could be virtuosic if they were in any way arrogant, but they're not, and so well-crafted and at times complex guitar work sits neatly within the sharp song structures that never stick around too long, and backs engaging and, at times, laugh-outloud funny lyrical storytelling. Green Dream In F# was originally released in October 2022 on Bingo Records. Its UK run of LPs quickly sold out and We Are Busy Bodies jumped at the chance to press more. "Really excited to announce that We Are Busy Bodies are releasing Pure Particles and Green Dream in F# in North America! They've got some juicy numbers on their label, and we can't wait to work with them," says the band.

If you're still trying to figure out what The Bug Club are all about, imagine Jonathan Richman bought a really big amp & a time machine and found himself somewhere on a Nuggets compilation Or perhaps Ray Davis buddied up with Sterling Morrison, got really into The Minutemen and agreed that songs need not be longer than two minutes. Then, maybe, you're almost where the Welsh three-piece are coming from. To showcase their songcraft and electric live show, the band have been on non-stop tours of the UK and mainland Europe, with many more spring dates scheduled. They will make their North American debut later this year. Be on the lookout for this indie powerhouse, pick up your colour vinyl at fine record stores across North America, and get into the Welsh-wave that is The Bug Club.

Twitter: https://twitter com/thebugclubband

Instagram:

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Facebook:

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Bandcamp: https://thebugclub.bandcamp.com/

ONLY THE POETS

ONLY THE POETS

'EVEN HELL'

Debut single out now on EMI

Growing up in Reading and nearby Banbury, the Reading Festival loomed over the band, dropping an annual hint (notably witnessing Arctic Monkeys' first headline slot) that a "small town existence" wasn't the only option thanks to music. They began creating their own songs, Longhurst's autobiographical lyrical honesty and raw feelings combined with big horizon-filling melodies inspired by 90's British indie instantly connected with audiences who felt the power of inclusivity through their songs. "I've always written really honestly and openly, because I want fans to know that it's OK not to be OK. I think nine out of 10 times, someone has probably felt the exact way you have in that moment you're writing. Our fans tell us the shows feel like a safe space," Longhurst says. "That's what were really proud of. If someone feels like they can't express themselves, at least they know they can at our shows, there's no judgment. They know they'll be accepted there"

Only The Poets release their much-anticipated fan favourite single, 'Even Hell' on EMI Records. Produced by the band in collaboration with Charlie Hugall (Florence + The Machine, Frank Turner), 'Even Hell' is a celebration of the transformative power of music full of chiming guitars, impassioned vocals and irresistible harmonies that swoop over the song's infectious rhythm- "It's nice to know/ I'm not alone/ I swear when I'm with you/ Even hell feels like home."

The Reading four piece comprising of Tommy Longhurst, bassist Andy "Roo" Burge, guitarist Clem Cherry and drummer Marcus Yates, have established themselves in just a few short years as one of the UK's biggest emerging live acts. Unsigned until recently, the band's DIY ethos saw them build things from the ground up, playing student house parties, pub circuits and small venues to selling out 1,600capacity venues in the UK and across Europe.

"Even Hell is our love letter to music" says Longhurst, "We just wanted to show our appreciation for music and how it can help you out and give you that escape in scenarios that would normally make you feel stressed and uneasy. Sonically it leans into our Britpop influences with the energy of it, and the fans seemed to have really connected with it "

Following sold out tours across the UK and Europe last year, Only The Poets have announced a European tour for this spring, with reduced ticket prices for fans who financially struggle to attend Due to overwhelming demand, additional dates have already been added in Prague and Warsaw. The tour culminates in London on 3rd May for their headline show at London's Shepherds Bush Empire. The band will also be supporting Lewis Capaldi on his European shows throughout February and March.

ONLY THE POETS LIVE DATES:

11TH APRIL – PALLADIUM WARSAW

12TH APRIL – PALLADIUM WARSAW

15TH APRIL – SIMMCITY VIENNA

16TH APRIL – ROXY PRAGUE

17TH APRIL – ROXY PRAGUE

18TH APRIL – METROPOL BERLIN

20TH APRIL – ESSIGF AFRIK COLOGNE

21ST APRIL – MELKWEG MAX AMSTERDAM

23RD APRIL – TRIX ANTWERP

3RD MAY – SHEPHERDS BUSH EMPIRE LONDON

Only The Poets are Tom Longhurst (Vocals), Clem Cherry (Guitar), Marcus Yates (Drums) and Andy Burge (Bass).

LOYLE CARNER

In hugo, there's a central question that Loyle Carner keeps coming back to: "I'm young, Black, successful and have a platform - but where do I go next?"

The answer is explored in this epic scream of a third album. With urgent delivery and gloriously widescreen production, Carner confronts both the deeply personal ("You can't hate the roots of a tree, and not hate the tree. So how can I hate my father without hating me?) and the highly political ("I told the black man he didn't understand I reached the white man he wouldn't take my hand"). Cinematic in scale and scope, hugo is both a rallying war cry for a generation forged in fire and a study of the personal internal conflict that drives the rest of the album - as a mixed-race Black man, as an artist, as a father and as a son.

With Mercury and Brits nominations, NME Awards and appearances in global brand campaigns (Nike, YSL, Timberland), Carner has undoubtedly had a meteoric rise to the top, culminating with his second album Not Waving, But Drowning charting at number 3 in the UK albums chart in 2019

However, hugo sees Carner taking a sharp detour from his previous work, putting it down to lockdown and the "hedonistic side of career being stripped away. There were no shows, no backstage, no festivals, no photoshoots". By continuing to write in these tumultuous times with a renewed clarity and sense of artistic freedom, Carner reached deeper beneath the surface than he ever had before.

LOYLE CARNER brings his anticipated tour TO VENUES ACROSS THE UK

The result is his most cathartic and ambitious record yet, a coruscating journey into the heart of what it means to be alive in these tumultuous times, and one which looks set to neatly cement his position as one of the most potent and vital young talents around today. Working alongside renowned producer kwes. (Solange, Kelela, Nao), Carner leaves no stone unturned on this album, in both its sound and its stories. In a 10-track album that moves from gorgeous neo-soul moments to thundering hip hop, with immediate, infectious bangers and sampled interludes from non musicians (mixed-race Guyanese poet John Agard and youth activist and politician Athian Akec) Carner shifts seamlessly from micro to macro, confronting everything from strained relationships with family to the societal tears caused by class stratification.

It also lays bare bruises in his personal life that he has never revealed before – often in painful, deeply uncomfortable ways, focusing on Carner's experience of becoming a father in the context of growing up without contact with his biological father. With the song "Polyfilla", against the backdrop of a warm melodic beat, Carner explores his desire to "break the chains in the cycle" of dysfunctional Black fatherhood, commenting on the narrative of fatherhood in the genre, and saying a key part of the process was realising that his father "grew up in a world where nobody showed him how to love or nurture". The follow up track "A Lasting Place" is an exploration of the MC's failure and inability to be perfect in this mission. The album closer is a powerful statement of love and forgiveness; with his signature lyrical dexterity, Carner declares his relentless commitment to his son and sees forgiving his father as a key part of this. The song closes with an emotional ending of Carner telling his dad "still I'm lucky yo that we talk".

LOYLE CARNER

There's a striking duality of hugo's bold, multilayered tracks and its often starkly intimate and tender lyricism, and that dichotomy is deliberate - it is a message for young Black men, but really, anyone, who is listening. Cognizant of the immense pain and fear and confusion that we are faced with everyday, Carner has thrown down the gauntlet, defying us not to rise above the fray, wake up each day and be ambitious.

Ambitious in building strong personal relationships. Ambitious in our pursuit of our goals. Ambitious in never refusing to back down against injustice. Rejecting the title of leader, Loyle Carner sees himself "as holding up a mirror", and that clearly translates into the album's universal messages.

Catch Loyle Carner on tour:

23 Feb Newcastle City Hall

24 Feb Liverpool The Mountford Hall

25 Feb Manchester O2 Victoria Warehouse

27 Feb Glasgow O2 Academy

28 Feb Sheffield O2 Academy

2 Mar Norwich UEA

3 Mar Leicester O2 Academy

5 Mar Brighton Dome

6 Mar Nottingham Rock City

8 Mar Birmingham O2 Academy

9 Mar Bournemouth O2 Academy

11 Mar Cardiff Uni Great Hall

12 Mar Bristol O2 Academy

15 Mar London Eventim Apollo Hammersmith

16 Mar London OVO Wembley Arena

25 Mar Leeds Belgrave Music Hall

26 Mar Leeds Belgrave Musc Hall

Photo:JesseCrankson

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