MIXTAPE

WORDS: PHIL LAYTON, PLAY BREW CO

Play Brew was developed from a passion of home brewing and nostalgia. My two young boys gave me the inspiration for creating the brand and its identity, I found myself watching old TV shows such as HE MAN, A Team, Airwolf etc. and buying the original toys I had in the 80s. With a love of creating new beer recipes and branding, Play Brew was born. Middlesbrough was a perfect fit for its home and I was keen to launch a craft brewery and taproom in the town. The taproom has become a huge part of the business and I didn’t expect to be so busy with events! The scene in Middlesbrough is really fun at the moment, with some great local talent which we like to support. I’m open-minded about musical styles and love to hear about new artists from all genres. Hopefully, once the current crisis is over, I would like Play Brew to be on the map not just for our amazing beers, but as a place where we dare to be different, with a safe and friendly vibe! www.playbrewco.com

EIGHTH WONDER - I’M NOT SCARED

I adore 80s music and aesthetic, and this song takes me back to being in the American Dream Soda in Middlesbrough in the late 80s!

STEPHANE POMPOUGNAC - LATIN CHA CHA

The Hotel Costes series gives you a real sense of Parisian luxury and refinement.

THE DRUMS - BOOK OF REVELATION

Probably my favourite band – they sound like a mixture of Beach Boys and Joy Division, with a cool flowing vibe from California, even though they are from New York.

LEWIS OFMAN - FLASH

With hints of youth and at the same time of 70’s Italian film soundtracks, there’s a shivering atmosphere where melancholia meets joy in this song.

VENDREDI SUR MER - MON CHAGRIN

A real dreamy synth pop group from Switzerland. Her music is highly cinematic; think of slow disco balls and icy synths. Highly recommended.

REAL ESTATE - PRIMITIVE

Real Estate are a great band from New Jersey, they cleverly implement breezy melodies and a hazy style of indie rock.

THE METEORS - YOUR BABY BLUE EYES

I’ve just discovered these guys and the psychobilly genre, and it’s probably the most listened to style I’ve enjoyed to this year to date.

THE DELTA BOMBERS - THE WAY YOU LOVE ME

Another great psychobilly track.