contents 4- 9 0s rock 101 - 198 10 -13 Roger Miller 14 -15 with Question time lennox 16 -17 Live reviews: lostprophets papa roach derren brown 18 -2 5 s! merthyr rock 26 -2 7 Wheatus talot Plus: MC Fron d & The Math Ban 28 -31 nal exit internatio track by track 32 -3 5 interview with butch walker
36 -3 9 interview with rking incosiderate pa 40 -4 2 chi elissa frances k by track gives us a trac 43 --47 CD reviews: , Fly This For Me kyle c, every avenue, ouses, kids in glass h th, save your brea walker, the cab, butch chi, elissa frances , sucide silence red the amsterdam crosses, light district, nd, kill the weeke , blitzen trapper 48 book reviews: e danny wallac corey taylor
An
Contributors A-Z ul Esp, e, Alex Brady, Pa Nadine Ballantyn end Thomas, Ed Town neka Sillitoe, Adam
Rock101 here comes the 80s Words: Anneka Sillitoe
It’s full of big hair and even bigger attitudes. The start of the decade brought the death of John Lennon (these musicians are dropping like flies!). But it also brought MTV and the music video revolution began. Disco sucks was the slogan and out came the synths with some bright neon, lycra type clothes (what were they thinking?). Also came metal in it’s many
The Clash They pushed the punk ideals of political issues and rebellious attitude. They weren’t afraid to experiment in their music or to speak their minds and that helped inspire a generation who weren’t afraid to question their leaders and demand to know what was going on. We could possibly do with the same inspiration these days.
forms, hip hop with some cheese and some
Album you should check out: London Calling. Yes
quality artists and punk rock boomed!
the album was recorded in 1979 and released in
Video games consoles were becoming a household thing and sports were big
December of that year in the UK. But it was 1980 when it was released in the US and when it did most of it’s big influential stuff.
with Michael Jordan’s appearance into the NBA. A huge group of musicians got together to race money for the countries suffering in terrible crisis at Live Aid and whilst all this was going on, some bands appeared that would change the face of music forever.
Guns N’ Roses A band who we will never sadly see reform with it’s popular and incredibly talented line-up. (Hell I’d pay £100’s to see a one off charity even reunion of this lot, which is the only way I could imagine any of them would contemplate it).
They were musically untouchable and inspired bands to have a very rock ‘n’ roll attitude And frankly Slash is one of those guitarists who will always be hailed as a gd due to such melodic
the clash
guns n roses
----------------------------------------------------------------------bon jovi
motley crue
----------------------------------------------------------------------and awe-inspiring solos. There were an amazing band until
and rock ‘n’ roll. And a path that nearly killed them (or did
their split and unfortunately they will never live up to the
in the case of Nikki Sixx). But after surviving that (just!) and
level of their late 80’s/early 90’s run together whilst apart.
getting sober the band started to write even more amazing material (they wrote well for people who were off their
Album you should check out: Appetite for Destruction. It is an amazing album! How can you make an album that had 3 classic songs on it? Well GNR managed it with ‘Welcome to the Jungle’, ‘Paradise City’ and ‘ Sweet Child
heads!). What they have passed on is ‘yes have a rock ‘n’ roll attitude, but it’s not worth risking your life for’. And that’s a great message!
of Mine’. Follow this album with everything ‘til 1993’s ‘Spaghetti Incident’.
Album you should check out: Dr. Feelgood. Truly a Mötley Crüe sounding album. Their albums before this are pretty
Rush Mixing hard rock and progressive rock so it sounds like
amazing, but this just stepped up their talent. And that push allowed them to continue to write amazing together when their got back together many years later and wrote 2006’s ‘Saints of Los Angeles’ (another fantastic album!).
something from another much more funky planet than our own. And when YYZ was put onto guitar hero people could not feel their fingers for days after attempting it on anything above medium mode (haha!). But seriously they’ve inspired people to push for what they want. To push for guitar solos that are epic, for drums that are nothing short of jaw dropping and it’s made some music of today simply more sonic and powerful.
Bon Jovi Hair metal titans! Bon Jovi were an amazing bands from the off who have managed to come back strong with everything they’ve ever released. But the 80’s was where they really truly shone and made a name for themselves. Writing simple, but catchy and sing-along songs. What they’ve passed on to the next generations is that simple can
Albums you should check out: Moving Pictures. It’s the
sometimes be better if done right (unfortunately these days
album that gave them mainstream success and contains that
so many bands don’t get that right though!).
rocking guitar hero track that claimed your fingers too. Album you should check out: Slippery When Wet. It’s a
Mötley Crüe A band that started out almost completely on a rock ‘n’ roll and a very 80’s path. It was a path lined with sex, drugs
corker of an album. It’s everything Bon Jovi represent and should represent. Hair was big and the sing-alongs even bigger! Tracklisting spanning ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’, ‘You Give Love A Bad Name’ and ‘Wanted Dead or Alive’. What is there not to love?
----------------------------------------------------------------------iron maiden
metallica
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Metallica
Iron Maiden
They formed in the 80’s and quickly became the most
They are the pioneers of heavy metal in the UK and have
popular heavy metal band around and have pretty much
been pretty much doing it ever since. They introduced
held the title ever since. They had a few line-up changes
‘Eddie’ to the world as simply a mask and from then he
along the way but they’ve still managed to write some of
became a character in his own right. He’s as much Iron
the best thrash around. Admittedly it’s not to everyone’s
Maiden as the band are. If the amazing tunes and strong
tastes but they have inspired a whole host of artists in the
British music weren’t enough, Iron Maiden leave a legacy
metal scene and continue still to inspire new bands that
that often there are members of your band that aren’t even
appear on the scene these days. So they’re worth the listen
in the band.
to pick out the key bits that you can hear throughout other artists music. Album you should check out: Master of Puppets. It was the album to start them all. It’s also been said to be “the best
Album you should check out: The Number of the Beast. It was the album that shot the band to success and introduced us all to Bruce Dickinson. An awesome voice and catchy as hell fantasy rock tunes, what more do we need?
heavy metal album ever written” by many music critics. It’s your ultimate start to metal 101.
AC/DC
The Jam They were punk rock, but were a lot less angry about it. They brought in new wave to the mix and wrote some
One of the most successful Australian bands to date. Their
unique and awe-inspiring tracks. ‘Going Underground’
music has pushed the rock boundaries and still stands the
shot straight to number 1 and stayed their for 3 weeks,
test of time. ‘Highway to Hell’ is still one of the most request
something completely unheard of back in 1980.
tracks to be played at funerals (love it!) and recent film ‘Iron Man 2’ rocked some of the classic AC/DC. Album you should check out: Back in Black. The album to shoot the band to major success. And the album still stands
Album you should check out: ‘Sound Affects’ was the album they released after ‘Going Underground’ (which never appeared on one of the bands albums). It contained the popular tracks ‘That’s Entertainment’ and ‘Start!’.
the test of time. It’s majorly catchy and you’ll be humming the title track for hours after a listen (trust me I’ve been humming like crazy!)
soundscape 07
Black Flag Were the american punk rock gods. They’re considered today to have been one of the very first hardcore punk bands. Henry Rollins joined them in 1981 and that’s when things went from good to great. Album you should check out: Damaged. It’s what punk music should be and it inspired bands for generations to come.
Album you should check out: Pretty Hate Machine started it all off and spawned them 113 weeks of success on the Billboard’s Top 100. It’s been certified Platinum and is not to be missed when checking out bands who have influenced. Success is the biggest influence of all.
Motorhead One of the loudest live bands ever. Motorhead know how to kick start a party! And yet again, we have another band on our list who have featured on Guitar Hero; cause we all wanna rock the song secretly, so if a video games the
Billy Idol Mixing pop with goth and all that in between. The man knew how to make a hit and piss some people off at the same time. The biggest song of his was not his highest charting and yet it’s played at gathering all across the world... one particular type of gathering though; a wedding. He’s taught the generations that follow that
best we can achieve; have at it! So what have they taught bands? To play loud, but to play and sing in tune. None of this shouty bollocks just to be loud, just solid notes and quality playing. Album you should check out: Ace of Spades. It obviously contains the hit itself, which is loud and fast. Frankly it’s rock at it’s finest.
writing about a particular common theme will allow your song to stand the test of time when everyone covers it years later.
Minor Threat Hardcore punk at it’s best. One of the titans of the
Album you should check out: Billy Idol. It’s his first full length
movement in the east America area. Minor Threat started a
and features the said track ‘White Wedding’. A rocking
movement called ‘Straight Edge’ with a song of theirs and
tune that can’t be missed.
it’s an ideal close to my heart and something that carries through into modern society. It took the punk movement in
Nine Inch Nails Essentially the only member of this band is Trent Reznor, but what an influence one man can be. The band started with strength and just carried it on through and still maintain it
a new directions and that’s what has inspired generations since. Take your genre and make it your own. Album you should check out: Minor Threat EP. It’s their first two 7” records put together on one 12” record. It’s a mix of
even today. The shows are visual as well as audio and
all things Minor Threat and shows what hardcore punk t
push other bands to the limit. Industrial rock has rarely
ruly was.
sounded so good.
billy idol motorhead
soundscape 09
soundscape 10
Roger Miller Words: Alex Brady
Who remembers the Hamster Dance?
the genre, which was only the tip of
Or ‘King of the Road’ as sung by The
the iceberg in this man’s quirkiness and
Proclaimers which was later modified
humour. Roger’s life was a dramatic one.
for a road safety advert with
His father died at the young age of 26
strangely articulate hedgehogs? Who
from spinal meningitis when Roger was
remembers the Disney film ‘Robin Hood’
only a year old. Unable to
and the singing cockerel with some of the most wonderful songs to ever
look after her children during the
feature in a Disney film?
Depression, his mother sent him and his three brothers to live with one of each
The majority of you will probably have
of his uncles, his father’s three brothers,
heard of one of those, if not all, but would
with Roger being sent to his uncle’s farm
that be the same if you were asked about
in Oklahoma where he would pick cotton
Roger Miller? Roger Miller? Well he was
from the fields and walk three miles to the
the man behind everything that has just
nearest school.
been listed and more. Roger’s mind was always drifting to music Born in 1936, Texas, Roger Miller was
though and his cousin’s husband, Sheb
an off-beat country and western singer/
Wooley, took a liking to him and began to
songwriter and perhaps the only such
teach him guitar. Sheb is now remembered
person to make use of the jazz scat in
in his own right as a singer/songwriter
and actor from the 50s to the 70s and
jail, Roger was given the option to join the
is best remembered for his novelty song,
army which, though only 17, he accepted
“Purple People Eater.” School and farming
and he found himself with the chance to
never held sway for Roger and, whilst still
get away from everything and experience
in high school, he began running away
the wider world.
in the hopes of finding the career and success he longed for, perhaps trying to
As well as three marriages, a job as a
follow in the footsteps of Sheb.
bellhop and a position at a fire-station, during which time there were only two
Though he would always return home,
fires, one of which he slept through, Roger
running away allowed Roger to visit
produced songs, once described by Kermit
local music venues to hear country music,
the Frog in Roger Miller’s Muppet Show
especially any performance by American
episode, which had a “delightful nuttiness”
Western singer, Bob Wills. This venturing
about them. His first album, “Roger and
came to an end when, in his desperation
Out”, boasts the two singles “Chug-a-
and intense desire to write and play
lug” and “Dang Me”. “Chug-a-lug” is a
music, he stole a guitar in Texas before
light-hearted reminiscence of drinking
fleeing back to Oklahoma as he could not
homemade alcohol, the title being a
afford one on the few jobs he could find
phrase often used for downing drinks and
in his wanderings. He turned himself in
the opening sounding very similar to the
the next day, but rather than send him to
start of the Sesame Street theme.
[cont]
“Dang Me” tells the tale of a less than
subject, but in the hands of Miller, the
responsible man with an incredibly
topic becomes bouncy, energetic and
cheerful atmosphere and the unforgettable
embeds itself into your memory with its
lines: “Roses are red and violets are
catchy, upbeat nature and down-too-earth
purple. Sugar is sweet and so is maple
construction which is ingrained into all of
surple. Well I’m the seventh out of seven
Miller’s songs. Every lyric feels natural,
sons. My pappy was a pistol I’m the
deliberate and welcoming. Something the
son of a gun.” It was this infections light-
manufactured pop of today has all but
heartedness, humour and magic with
killed off.
words that would define Roger’s music. Roger’s ability to manipulate ideas and His second album, “The Return of Roger
topics into ironically jaunty songs is
Miller”, brought similarly unique works.
presented perfectly in “King of the Road.”
“Do-Wacka-Do”, a way of saying do-
Though, sadly, some people may known
like-I-do, is a song of jealousy for the
this solely as a song by the Proclaimers as
life of someone else and the wish to
mentioned earlier, this is one of Roger’s
trade places. Not a naturally happy
most triumphant works reaching No. 1 in the UK singles chart, being covered by dozens or artists over the years and featuring in the film Talladega Nights: The Bald of Ricky Bobby. The song tells the tale of a hobo, his lack of money, his travels and occasional work, but despite his impoverished lifestyle, he is “a man of means by no means.” He is free. He has no money but can go where he pleases and works when he wants. Roger has perfectly repainted an idea many of us fear, look down on and shy away from, that of homelessness and losing everything we work for, into a beautiful melody of freedom, determination and pleasure in the simple things. How often are we able
to up and travel somewhere else whenever
who have had all taken from them. These
we want? Though he has nothing, this
songs impart feelings that no spoken word
“King of the Road” holds something many
or image could get across, taking you in
of us long for.
to the story and the experiences of the characters.
Roger’s ability to impart emotions upon us plays a pivotal role in the Disney’s 1973,
In many ways, “King of the Road” and
“Robin Hood” where Roger plays Alan-
the “Robin Hood” trio are parallels to
a-Dale, a minstrel rooster who serves as
Roger’s life. Struggles such as the loss of
the film’s narrator. As well as providing a
his father and separation of the family,
superb portrayal of the character, Roger
two divorces and the liberty of running
also supplied three songs for the film:
away for something you love combined
“Whistle Stop”, “Oo De Lally” and “Not
with the ability to push on through to better
In Nottingham”. The first serves as the
times and to share this journey with others
instantly identifiable theme for the film with
through music which seems effortlessly
a nine second sample being used in the
cheerful and timeless.
creation of the hamster dance, that highpitched, basic animation which took the
In 1990, Roger was diagnosed with lung
internet by storm all those years ago. “Oo
cancer, having been a lifelong smoker and
De Lally” is a fast paced introduction to
in 1992, passed away, aged 56, leaving
Robin Hood and Little John which cleverly
a legacy of laughter and wonderful songs.
establishes their conflict with the richer
Hundreds of relatives and friends from
authority, the basis of the tale. “Not In
throughout his life attended his memorial
Nottingham” is a heart-breaking lament
service, held a week after his death by
for the tyranny imposed upon the people
his third wife Mary and long-time friend
by King John who taxes the citizens into
and manager, Stan Moress and in 1995,
poverty before imprisoning them.
Roger was posthumously inducting into the Country Music Hall of Fame remembering
All three engulf you in the atmosphere
one of the greatest, if unconventional,
of the song and point in the story: the
country artists there will be and one that
excitement of the beginning of the film, the
today, should still be spoken of and shared
care-free lives lived by the outlaws and the
amongst music lovers of all genres.
relentless, crushing despair of the people soundscape 13
Some of you may remember Miss Conduct, the Bridgend based band who made quite a stir a few years ago?
Well let us introduce you to Lennox.
Q
uestion time
Audio Words: Paul Esp
soundscape 12
The band formed a year ago by former Miss Conduct singer Kim and who are, according to them, “Female Fronted Rock with balls of steel and hearts of gold” and from the sound of the four tracks on the bands Facebook page that is pretty spot on. The band, completed by Stuie Blair and Adam McQuillian on Guitar, Paul Armstrong on Bass and Lawrence Duckers on the drums have just spent time with producer Matt O’Grady (Deaf Havana, You Me At Six) to record a 4 track EP. The band are also doing a short UK tour with Luke Pickett so we were very lucky to catch up wit the band just before the tour. Who are you and what do you do? We are lennox and we do noise in front of people for a living. How did you get started? We formed and were gigging within weeks of getting together through broken bands and old buddies. What have you got going on at the moment? Writing our next release, super excited about the new sound, now we know each-other better
it shows, we can fart freely in front of each other too.. and the tour in June with Luke Pickett! Favourite music and why? We all like a lot of tunes, were like a bunch of poofs that are closet gaga fans at heart. Favourite book and why? Dem onez wiv pictures in so we can sniffs de people. Favourite film and why? Watch anything we have filmed on our phones when we have been on tour, won’t need the cinema then! (laughs) Best experience in the business? Getting a dressing room, balancing our handbags and bras in a toilet cubicle wears on us easily you see. Why should Soundscape readers care? Because we have worked our butts off for a year to try establish ourselves and be noticed, we hope you will enjoy and join us at a show! Tell our readers an interesting fact about the band? We are all bound by blood... Nah! Jokes! The drummer James and singer Kim are
siblings, which gets frustrating on tour sometimes when they bicker! You’ll see drum sticks a flying! Best thing about playing in Wales? I (Kim) lived in Wales for 4 years when I was in Miss Conduct. The scene is so great and diverse, the people are so fun and I wanna come back, it’s my second home! Who are your role models/idols? We all idolise McDonalds, without it, we would have starved on tour. Thank you. Other than that Michael Jackson comes second and Keith lemon 3rd. Hardest thing about the current business? Lots of people trying to do the same within a small country, makes it harder to be heard, but we are gonna work hard, stick at it and never give up!
So, that’s Lennox! Make sure you check them out here http://www.thisislennox.com where you can download the track ‘Make A Million’ for free. The rest of the EP can be bought on iTunes. soundscape 15
papa roach shepards bush london 16th july
Papa Roach always bring their
from their debut 2000 album
the other older tracks and it’s such
A-game and tonight it felt no
‘Infest’, but as is the case with
a shame this happens to bands.
different. Giving their show
most bands; the songs just don’t
The only solution I have seen is
everything they got, they played
sound right live anymore. Either
bands doing full ‘album a night’
through a host of songs spanning
later albums have different tuning
tours and I highly recommend
all 5 of their albums (6 if you
or are simply so much more of
this to Papa Roach to come back
include b-side tracks they played
a different style that bands have
and seriously kick the crowd in
from their live album).
to adapt their older tracks to fit
the teeth. But that’s not to say the
in with the ‘newer’ sound. And
band didn’t give it all they had
There’s just one problem with
this happened tonight. ‘Dead
and really got the crowd involved,
bands who change their sound
Cell’ seemed to lack it’s original
it’s just not the best time I’ve ever
so much over their career. Yes,
drive and passion. This seemed
seen this band play. 7/10
it’s great they still play the tracks
to follow somewhat with a few of
Words: Anneka Sillitoe
derren brown shaftesbury theatre, london 13th july If you’ve ever seen Derren
the list of things to do before I die!
Derren has set the bar at from his
Brown; you’ll know his shows are
Derren always aims to keep the
previous work. His show is touring
amazing and a key ingredient is
audience on it’s toes and to simply
until mid 2012 and I urge anyone
always audience participation. I
amaze them with everything he
and everyone to go see it as it is
got to experience that first hand
does whether using simple logic,
a definite must see show! If you’re
when I saw the show and whilst
human psychology or something
unsure on whether you could
I was practically shaking in my
even more spectacular.
handle it or are unsure of his work (where have you been living?),
shoes with nervousness, the sheer excitement of helping Derren’s
His new show Svengali does
you can check his previous shows
show was event from my heart
all these things whilst being as
out on DVD first, but trust me; you
rate going through the roof. It’s
hypnotising, enlightening and
do not want to miss this show.
definitely something I can tick off
enchanting as such is the level
10/10
Words: Anneka Sillitoe
lostprophets cardiff solus 17th august Plus: TOWN
So much spark and excitement
While we’re on the honesty
Along with this is a great
lingers around local boys Town.
path, this is the first time
electricity of friendship on
The crowd at the front seem
I’ve ever had the chance to
stage. DJ Jamie constantly
receptive enough, the ones
witness Lostprophets live. For
amuses Ian, majority of the
hanging back on the sofas are
years people around me have
time showing off his ska
probably thinking the same as
speculated how great they are
dancing skills encouraging him
me, ‘I’m sorry, what spark?’. All
to see live and tonight I finally
to play along but he doesn’t
I see is another indie rock band
got to see that.
take the plunge.
with extra tricks and something
Despite kicking it off with some
It only takes a few songs in
to prove. That o’ so enduring
new tracks, which is a risky
to make you realise the
power chord stretched out
move by any bands accounts,
amount of energy they put into
while the singer ‘emotionally’
the fans accept it and sing
a show compared to other
strains out some gibberish
along anyway, at parts louder
acts that makes you wonder
about some washed up town
than Ian can cope. Tonights
how and if they’re really
or girl. We think. Interest was
show is apart of a few ‘warm
trying. Lostprophets make it
wearing thin at this point in
up dates’ that they’ve getting
look easy to play a show, not
anticipation to see Lostprophets
away with for the last few years
only sounding outstanding
and pondering the thought why
before heading off to festivals.
but crowd interaction and
they choose a bland band than
It shows a great side of a band
everything a gig should
some other that could get the
when they play more intimate
be about.
atmosphere going.
gigs, especially a band like
using the same old formula
Lostprophets who could easily
The only thing that was
If we’re being nice, there is
pack out Cardiff Arena, it
disappointing? That they
some potential and have by
always feels like they’re playing
far been the most entertaining
for the fans, for those love it,
Of Progress’.Maybe one day.
indie band to appear locally
rather than the money.
9/10
for a while, just below Tiger Please who are leading the
But isn’t it about time for a
way for us. Town, you can keep
real tour lads?
your “na na na’s”.
didn’t play ‘The Fake Sound
Words: Nadine Ballantyne
soundscape 17
Words & Photo: Joshua Hammond
Attack! Attack! soundscape 18
Words & Photos: Nadine Ballantyne & Ed Townend
merthyr rock 2011 Cyfarthfa Park Sunday, 4th september
With The Full Ponty having been ‘out of service’ for a few years, it was about time another Welsh festival came along and took all the glory. Merthyr Rock, although only starting off with two stages and a few stalls, after the glorious weekend we only hope will get bigger. It certainly kicked off with high standards and the cream of the Welsh crop playing over the weekend. No hiccups, no messing, perfect sound and a perfect mix of bands. The only thing that was against this festival was the weather.
Opening the Sunday The Hotel Ambush (7), and what a wake up call that was. A crowd quickly emerge around the outside second stage (sponsored by Big Deal Clothing) and watch these metallers open up. It’s just a shame to see a band like this play before Go-X (4) whose singer, I can only describe as skipping around the stage like a prat in order to gain some attention and take away from the fact their songs are messy, tuneless bring on earache. They maybe fooling the young kids on the barrier but not anyone over the age of fourteen.
crossbreaker
Moving on to Crossbreaker (6)
somewhat improves the
scene, more metal on the second stage but this time in old fashioned hardcore punk, which can be seen from the singers expression which only swings from moody to screaming and back to intense moody. But it’s somewhat more pleasant to watch and listen than Go-X. The day brightens up when we realise The Guns (9) are on stage next. As per usual they put on an outstanding performance. Singer Alex is natural comic and crowd pleaser when it comes down to banter with the front row, whether it’s a sly joke or shouting “fuck it” when the crowd fail to sing back during ‘Treacle & Pie’. They made a wise choice when it came down to placing the bands at times that didn’t clash, many of the crowds had time to check out smaller unknown acts on the second stage that would of otherwise been playing to a small few. Biggest crowd of the day (as of yet) ram the main tent for Revoker (9), who feel like the guns
a fairly new band on the local circuit but have already acquired themselves a deal with Roadrunner Records and clearly deserve after a smashing performance, rock horns and everything. You’re easily reminded metal is still alive in Wales, and with their powerful yet friendly performance, hope for more to follow in their footsteps. As the day goes on it feels like
quickly into a near hut as the
the bands are outdoing their
makes the day happy. Next
previous acts, My Passion (9)
up Attack! Attack! (8),
weather gods have chosen this
take over after Revoker and
who’ve not long played The
unfortunate moment to pour
the energy on stage becomes
Big Weekend in Cardiff play
down on Merthyr. A local band
more incredible. The crowd
to an overwhelming crowd
that’s kicking up some hype
is buzzing, guitars are flung
fearlessly, that and because it’s
and actually living up to it are
around like toys and the singer
started to rain and the main
lucky enough that dedicated
clearly loves the crowd, and the
tent is the only cover. Although
fans and friends brave the
cameras.
it feels like a replica set to The
rain to watch the duel bassists
Big Weekend, today it feels
take pleasure in tearing up
It’s hard for an act to follow
stronger, especially with a front
the second stage. And you
such a performance and when
row who sing every word back
have to hand it to them, one
a small few waddle back to the
at Neil whilst Ryan does some
members ill and the other, Scott
second stage they’re greeted
karate kicks in the background.
Lee Andrews, during last hit ‘Hey Disciple’ takes the mic
by The Social Club (7) who
for a walk into the crowd and
open with a little number and
All this hype for Young Guns
play a very ‘happy’ set, in
(4)
that they’re happy that they’ve
myself drifting off and not
terrorizing the front row. Seems
travelled all the way from
interested enough to keep my
to be becoming a tradition now
Romford and there’s small
attention compared to other
for local DJ Jen Long to take
crowd accepting to watch
acts that have played today.
the reins whilst Scott does his
them. They sound happy, it
We move quickly onto Exit
moves. [cont]
makes us happy, it all around
International (8) and then
yet after three songs I find
manages to loose a tooth whilst
soundscape 21
the social club
jettblack
the Hotel Ambush
my passion
As the rain departs after Exit
worthy was actually enjoyable.
It’s a shame most hide out
International, Skindred (9)
Bring back the 80s I say.
at the main stage preparing
arrive on the main stage
for Merthry’s own glorious
kicking the mosh pits off in
We go from this to Funeral
Blackout close the night.
good fashion. Singer Benji’s
For A Friend (7) whose
They’re probably too
another one whose banter with
appearance at The Big
young to understand FOTL’s
the crowd always pays off. It
Weekend was a little left
jokes anyway.
has to be said, I don’t think
behind and lack lustre, tonight
there’s ever been a moment
however proves to be the
In tradition The Blackout
Skindred have played badly,
opposite. Matt Davies breaks
(8)
but it’s always Benji who
a sweat and shows enthusiasm
lunatics, seeing who can swing
pulls through, who everyone’s
despite what little life Funeral
the mic stand in the sweetest
watching, who leads the band
appeared to have left in the
manner. They bring out what
through the set.
music industry, the crowd
feels like a hit list but the kids
seem to change that feeling.
lap it up because they play to
The most obscure band of the
Hopefully Funeral will be with
full potential. Anyone around
day is handed to Jettblack
us for some time more.
Merthyr at that time could
(7).
Early 80s hair rock is
jump around the stage like
probably hear the applause
what comes to mind when
Future Of The Left (9)
and crowd singing along like it
you see this band on stage.
definitely one of the highlights
was their last night on earth.
Throughout the set they line up,
of the night. With them, it’s
An eccentric end to a fantastic
raise their guitars and in a Bon
not just a rock gig you’re
festival. We only hope it comes
Jovi fashion play like they’re
getting, it’s a comedy set as the
back next year.
playing to an arena. What I
banter on stage gets the crowd
thought was going to be cringe
belly aching with laughter.
http://www.merthyrrock.com
the blackout
Words & Photos: Nadine Ballantyne
soundscape soundscape2325
Wheatus clwb ifor bach 15th september Plus: MC Frontalot & The Math Band
The Math Band are one of those
distracting. If you get a chance to
Frontalot leaving and Wheatus
indescribable bands in that you
hunt them down, do go and
singer Brendan B. Brown
need to see them to believe what
watch them.
announcing to the crowd he needs to pee. Gigs don’t come as
insanely entertaining show is going on. You’re not so much
MC Frontalot, unknown to many
casual as this. There doesn’t feel
concentrating on the repetitive
here has taken on Wheatus as
any animosity that many, many
techno loop that makes you feel
his accomplices for this tour. It
years ago they had their big hit
like it’s the 90s, but this duo act,
involves the same members but
and that was it, but where most
a girl who bashes the keyboard
with a rather nerdy singer, and as
bands have faded away they’ve
with one hand and a single drum
he puts it ‘nerdcore hip hop’. This
kept on going. They still appear
and cymbal with the energy of a
involves belting out raps about
to love what they do and have a
five year old who has just downed
Star Wars, first class problems,
good time about it too. Brendan
a bottle of red bull. The other
spoilers, games and goth girls.
just perhaps needs to work on his
sporting a ripped pair of jeans
MC Frontalot feels like something
jokes. A pleasant surprise with a
batters a guitar then decides it
unique you’ve never seen before.
Weezer cover and when hits A
makes a good exercise tool and
How often do nerdy rappers
Little Respect and Teenage Dirtbag
throughout pauses continually
appear on a rock bill? Not very.
the whole floor finally awake (even those lurking at the back
drops the guitar to the floor, steps out, lifts it it back over his
Tonight is a bizarre one, but a
waiting patiently for the hits) come
shoulders. It’s mesmerizing. As for
friendly atmosphere lurks around
alive and sing over the band.
the music, it’s sporting their look
the entire gig. Even with a brief
They deserve a little more respect.
but the characters themselves are
switch over which involves MC
8/10
Words & Photos: Nadine Ballantyne
soundscape 27
l a n o i t a n er t n I _ t i Ex ack Junk k c a r l t B y b k ast. f d n Trac a . d music nd harh n e hoto: Ed Towne e t t e k Writ &P i l Words Just
Black Junk. out 19th September.
soundscape 28
I
blk jnk
After releasing the short but
1. Glory Horn
un-serious attitude Exit show
sweet ‘Sex W/ Strangers’ EP
A single cymbal beat and then
and then the line “holding
in 2010, Exit_International
punching with all the bass you
me down, jump on the face,
are back with a full-length
could possibly expect from the
fucking loving it” shows how
in 2011. The trio of Fudge
duelling bass powerhouse. The
psychotic they can get. A pop
Wilson (bass / vocals), Adam
drums beat slowly and then
hit with extreme malice.
Thomas (drums / percussion) and Scott Lee Andrews (vocals / bass) bring the dubious sounding ‘Black Junk’ in as their psychotic, chaotic and extremely noisy debut.
Recorded alongside ex-60FT Dolls drummer Carl Bevan, the whole hot mess was
the band powers into a full on onslaught, perfectly opening
3. Voices
the album. You have to keep
Voices creeps you out in the
reminding yourself they’re
way it’s supposed to for almost
only using bass and drums.
an entire minute with off beats
What better way to power out
and strangely skewed vocals
devastating noise after playing
until the chorus kicks in with a
poppy melodies? Sinister and
familiar pop hilt and the hook
dark in the bridge, the opening
“I’m hearing voices!” before the
sets up the album to come.
unnerving verse kicks in again
Noise, pop, screams
with more vigour. Raw voices
and scares.
all around as well as smashed
recorded in just 72 hours and
drums until the creepiness
the 13-track album definitely
2. Sex With Strangers
reaches its peak with “you
shows the best of the band.
An abrupt ending signals
can’t save me” repeated quietly
We decided in the spirit of the
the entry of the re-recorded
yet manically.
band to give you a quick track-
leading track from the band’s
by-track review of the release.
EP, with a lot more punch than
4. Shake Your Bad Ass
So here it is: Exit_International.
the original. The repeated
Probably the coolest song on
Black Junk. Track by track.
chorus line of “Never said I
the album, especially to
Written hard and fast.
want to be a man” echoes the
dance to, but I guess that
teenage spirit of the completely
was the plan. [cont]
Just like the music.
High and low voices sing the
Probably a song that can
The whispered break just
short verse, a precursor to the
only be described as about
before the final chorus gets you
awesome chorus of “Shake
meaningless, especially good is
every time. Classic Exit.
your bad ass, watch yourself,”
the line “Buckle up kids”. 9. My Mouth Is
doing it far better than Groove
Your Mouth
Armada or other dance
7. Sherman Fang
giants, with sinister undertones
A multi-structured epic in
Starting out with less noise than
but awesome power. More
three minutes. Drum focused,
usual, it’s the vocals that really
torturous screaming between
with stick hits that sound like
punch you in the gut on this
the “Come closer” bridge
fingernails and allusions to
track before hitting you again
and a drum accompanied a
spiders – definitely not a
with an instrumental chorus until
capella. Seriously cool.
friendly track, especially when
the pop reignites with the hook
the erratic bridge kicks in with
of “My mouth is your mouth...”
5. Bowie’s Ghost
muffled synth bass, randomly
etc. Another accessible track
An intro of the craziest “la
interspersed with shouts until
if you’re trying to convince
la”s you’ll hear, before
feedback works its way in and
someone a bit unstable to listen
descending into what can
gradually builds to chaos and
to something a bit poppy and
only be described as a insane
lunacy. If you can gradually
a bit deranged.
homage to ‘Starman’ by the
do that. An absolutely crazy
aforementioned recording
track that will take you weeks to
10. Lights Out
artist. Sometimes it’s just better
work out buried deep into the
Re-incarnated in its album form,
to ignore the lyrics and rock out
album. The bizarre outro leaves
Lights Out is even crazier,
however, and that’s definitely
you feeling shocked
pulling out all the stops for the
more than possible with a song
but invigorated.
madness it delivers, the bass even heavier, the vocals even
it’s really hard to comprehend only consists of bass and
8. Chainsaw Song
weirder and the hand claps
drums. It just sounds so much
Back to the familiar. Again
still remain but with the extra
like a thousand guitars!
with more punch and noise
vigour. The outro, as always, is
than the original recording and
there to blast out the crap from
6. Body Joyrider
masterfully crafted into pop
your ears, so enjoy it.
Far less playful than the
madness with double tracked
previous tracks. Full on aggro
vocals accompanied by driving
11. King of the Junkies
in bass, drums, shouts and
bass and skittering melodies
This one starts out unnervingly
screams and franticly
before masterfully introducing
quiet and melancholy in
repeated lines.
the brilliant chorus “I saw, you
comparison to the rest of the
saw, she’s got a chainsaw”.
album. Whispered lyrics and
an understated drum beat over a bass guitar that sounds eerily like an acoustic guitar. The familiar loudness hits right back in with the chorus though but with reservations so the jump isn’t too jarring. It’s a good display of a wider range than just noise noise noise. There’s also a pretty cool false ending too. 12. Blindfolds Erratic, crazy, bizarre and nuts. Excellent words to describe Exit International and possibly at its peak here. I can’t really describe it as much else except loud... and brief. 13. Hey Disciple Hopefully not too unlucky, but it’s a pretty killer track, ending the album on a high. A live staple that normally sees Scott abandon his bass and jump into the crowd, it retains its energy on record. I wish I could transcribe the lyrics for it, as it’s full of far too interesting lyrics that are hard to decipher. The outro really kicks the album into its highest gear just as it ends. Black Junk. Pick it up. 19th September. No excuses. http://www.facebook.com/ ExitInternational
soundscape 23
Q feature
Butch Walker has just released his sixth solo album, second with The Black Widows called ‘The Spade’ worldwide and we were lucky enough to catch up with him for an interview before his intimate, sold out show at London’s Borderline last month. Here’s what he had to say about ‘The Spade’ and a whole host of other things…
Words: Paul Esp
Butch walker
soundscape 32 soundscape 26
So Butch, what are you doing
pretty much equally and we are
They are family and it just feels
over here in London, apart
definitely a band, for better or for
right having them in the room and
from the gig tonight of course?
worse you know, and it turned out
they bring so much vibe, for lack
to be right up there as one of my
of a better word.
I basically decided I was gonna
favourite records I’ve done. Can you give us some insight
do a trip to Scotland with friends and family and then I said it’s
I’ve been lucky enough to hear
into the writing and recording
really stupid of me not to squeeze
it already and it’s amazing and
process?
in a solo gig somewhere just
it sounds like you had a lot of
to have a little fun, well, a little
fun making it?
I know there are some songs here that you didn’t have a hand in
fun before the fun, so luckily we were able to get this gig at the
Yeah, we had a blast. It’s just the
writing at all, how did that feel?
Borderline and I was happy, it
way we translated our spirit from
It felt great actually, so rewarding
sold out pretty quickly, so I was
the road, which is where we really
to have one of the guys come in
stoked on that.
shine. I feel we are a live band so
with a song idea, and sometimes
it makes no sense for us to make a
that can be an ugly path to go
The new album ‘The Spade’ is
studio record with studio sounding
down because especially if you
coming out, tell me about it?
songs. So we made a live record
are very critical about your work.
that sounds great to play live
For someone else to come in and
It’s a record that my band the
and we went out and played the
go “I’ve got an idea that would
Black Widows and I did as a
songs to people before we even
be great for you to sing!”, that
collaborative effort, we wrote the
recorded them and it went over
already sounds bad on paper
songs together, did everything as
really well.
but when someone brings in an idea and they play it for you and
band, recorded it as a band, they are all very talented songwriters
Do you have any special guests
it’s fucking awesome. Then I get
and performers in their own right
on the album?
excited and I don’t have that issue this late in my career of my pride
so I just thought it would be time to do that. Make a it little bit more of
It’s somewhat the same line up
all welling up and going “I’m not
a change of pace for me and the
as the last record as far as The
gonna sing your lyric’.
way I’ve been making records my
Widows go. We had Patrick
whole life, which you can just burn
Keeler from The Raconteurs
Everything that was brought in
out on that process, and it’s nice
play drums because we felt like
was stuff I could relate to. When
to hear some objective opinion
we wanted a change on the
Jake (Sinclair, Black Widows
once in a while.
drumming situation so we did that,
bass player) brought in the song
and we had our friends Mike Trent
‘Synthesisers’ I couldn’t have said
Been a while since I’ve had a
and Carrie Ann Hearst back to
that better myself, when he sang
band that I’ve respected the
assist with mixing and back-ups
the lyric I was like you just said
members enough to wanna listen,
and writing lyrics, and they have
everything I feel, so it’s kinda like
and they are not just session
a group called Shovels And Rope
a present to get those songs, and
players hired, we split everything
that we take out on the road a lot.
to play and sing them, [cont]
and at the end of the day there
we wanted to do things and so
bit of what you picked up and
is changes here and there made
we are very fortunate that we will
learned from them in your own
by everybody so it ends up kinda
actually get a shot and get some
music, but I’d say 9 times out of
sculpting into it’s own sound. We
good promotion.
10, no. I’d usually just end up trying to get inside the artists head
are very conscious of the wanting the record to have it’s own sound
You do a lot of writing and
and figure out what it is they want
and statement and have flow
producing for other artists, do
and help them get that.
not just sound like a bunch of
you have a song bank or do
cover songs.
you approach each new
What are you listening to
project fresh?
at the moment? whats on your ipod?
What are the touring plans for the album, will there be a UK
It’s all different, every time you do
tour?
a song or album it’s all done on a
I really like Eliza Doolittle record,
case by case basis. You cant go
it’s really fun. I like the Wombats,
I really hope so, it’s hard with
in and do it all the same way for
I just worked on their new record.
America’s economy being so
everybody, some people might
I’ve been listening to the Bon
bad, it’s real hard for us to travel
do that but that’s not really fair
Iver record, I’m trying to like it.
abroad without losing our ass, but
to the artist, because the artist’s
It was so hyped so I’m checking
we really wanna do it again and
need your help in different ways.
that out. I love the Mumford and
now with the album coming out on
Some come in and are great
Sons record too. I just finished up
a UK label that’ll help us hopefully
writers and they need help with
a record for this girl named Gin
come over and plan a handful of
the performance end of things and
Wigmore, who’s out of Australia
shows as a band.
some come in and they are great
and it’s really good. I’ve been
singers but don’t write and then
listening to that mostly. That’s
The Spade is being released on
you need to help there. You have
the thing with producing records
UK independent label Lojinx,
to really examine the situation
all the time I’m usually listening
which is the first time your
before you go in and I just try to
to whatever I’m working on, all
albums have been available
always be an auxiliary member of
the time! I try not to listen to this
over here, how did that
the band and try to be a musical
record forty thousand times but by
come about?
partner as much as possible and
default I have to, but it’s a really
do things on their side.
good record, I’m super proud of it.
never had that much luck with
You’ve worked with some
And I’ve been listening to our
anybody putting out a record here
really diverse artists, do they
album, ‘cos I think it’s fucking
for us, they’ve always just been
inspire or influence you and
awesome! I know it’s a terrible
available import and we got a
the music that you write?
thing to say, I mean that’s what
We actually got lucky! We’ve
we do when we people make
call from the label, Lojinx, who seemed like they really believe in
Yeah, sometimes you’ll work with
records, we sit and listen to it over
the record and we didn’t have to
someone that really inspires you
and over, obsess over it, analyse
beat anyone over head about how
as an artist. You channel a little
it, but I am actually just enjoying
listening to it. I’m not micro
talked me into it and said as
other stories. It sure is entertaining
managing it, I like it and with this
long as you’re honest that’s all
but I don’t want make that stuff up
album I can say without too much
that matters. He said he thinks
about myself. I got a Mom and
pretension, hopefully, that “I love
people will think it’s halfway
Dad, although they are gonna be
this song” because it’ll be a song
interesting if I’m honest because
totally pissed when they read it..
i didn’t really write much of it and
I don’t know how much I believe
I can say “I’m so proud of Jake
in some of these books, they are
Really?
on this song or Fran or Chris on
so far fetched and out of control,
Oh, for sure.
this song”, it makes you more the
I mean, I’m lame if that was your
proud papa.
life, that’s insane. I kind of believe about some of those people but I
You can get ‘The Spade’ from iTunes,
You have a memoir coming out
know it’s all very sexied up for the
most good record stores or direct from
soon, I heard you had to have
writing and for the shock value.
the Lojinx website - www.lojinx.com
your arm twisted to write it, is
So I kinda said well, I’ll just have
Butch’s book ‘Drinking With
that true?
to make sure that I don’t do that
Strangers, A Memoir’ is slated for an
and if people like it, great. If they
October release so look out for that.
Well, lets just say I was talked
think it’s boring then at least it’s
into it. It sounded like a bad idea
honest, because I don’t know how
to me but I think my manager
much I believe in some of these soundscape 35
Q
e t a r e d i s Incon Parking Parking Inconsiderate n for their are well know Cardiff, but local busks in troversially also as a con d in the outspoken ban Cardiff music underground take things scene. They also ously, so a little less seri s with a take their word pinch of salt.
They have just won the final of the Cardiff Youth Service Battle of the Bands, as well as being the runners up in The Big Gig’s final. They’re currently working on recording their music to be released alongside their previous singles ‘Locked Out (Again)’ and ‘Hollister’. Rob sings and plays ukulele, James sings and plays guitar and Joel plays melodica and piano. I sat down with them over pizza outside a post office in Cathays…
How did you come up with
Rob: Yeah probably. And then there
the name?
was another sign underneath it on this
Rob: We were just sort of chilling;
person’s window of their house and it
we’d only just sort of started playing
said “Could the complainants of this
the instruments we had like ukulele
communication please make yourself
and melodica. James chipped in with
known to myself where we can
guitar. We were just walking around
resolve the aggressive attitude”. The
the streets playing stuff with a couple
first angry one had obviously been
of our mates. We saw a sign on the
put on someone’s car. We thought it
window that read “Why don’t you
was funny and we made a little song
take up the whole street with your
out of it that we’re never going to
stupid, inconsiderate parking?” and
play again. I said “Oh, Inconsiderate
at the bottom it said “You dickhead”
Parking sounds like a good name for
and it was all in red so it was quite
a band” and we were like “Oh why
vicious.
don’t we do that with what we’re
James: Painted in blood…
doing like,
soundscape 37
Words & Photo: Ed Townend
“
wear o h w le p o e p te a h e W ate h e w n a th e r o m r te Hollis band people who hate our
“
this little thing we’ve got going on?”
going to spite other bands
write songs about… We hate people
Joel: I wanted to change it to
To spite other bands? You’re quite
who wear Hollister more than we
something like “Inconsiderate Driving”
aggressive towards other bands
hate people who hate our band.
but that’s a shit name. I’m glad it’s
sometimes, why?
Actually… they’re usually the
Inconsiderate Parking.
James: Because I’m envious of
same people.
their bodies
James: I don’t care if people don’t
What’s the secret to your
Rob: Yeah, that and we just don’t
like our band, it’s their fault.
long-term success?
like them personally.
Rob: No one likes us… so…
Rob: Yeah, that. James: And the ability to play
Are you just competitive or…?
You say you’ve got a vendetta
Rob: No, we’re not competitive…
against Hollister don’t you?
instruments.
James: I am.
[The band has a song on the subject,
James: Good love.
Joel: We kind of work quite hard
relevant lyric “I’ve always said it’s
and there are a lot of bands that just
You do have a reputation…
immoral to shop at Hollister’]
mess about.
Rob: Good! We have a reputation.
Rob: No not really… because the
Rob: We created… and we keep
We’ve got more important things to
song isn’t about that. [cont]
It’s the company I’m angry at,
Joel: I think that’s why the vocals are
and I had to walk back and forth to
not the people.
quite good.
Embassy [aka Cathays Community
James: The people are just
Rob: Because I care about the lyrics.
Centre, where the band are based],
suckers aren’t they?
Joel: Because some songwriters
it was just a bit of a drag and it’s
Rob: They’re just poor
don’t care about the lyrics, which is
something I thought I’d write a song
bastards who…
fair enough, but sometimes it’s boring.
about. It was the first full song I ever
James: Well, they’re not poor, that’s
We don’t really have many songs
wrote where I sat down and wrote the
the thing. They’re morally poor.
where it’s made up, silly lyrics. But we
whole thing. When you’ve already
Do you think that kind of… I don’t
have a few…
written two or three songs you know what direction you’re going in.
want to call it arrogance, but overconfidence…
Like ‘Helio’? [A fictional and tragic
When you write your first song…
James: It’s arrogance
song about a local Lidl employee]
like, ‘Locked Out’ doesn’t have any
So you admit it’s arrogance?
Rob: Helio has a couple of lyrics that
influences. We were influenced by
Rob: Yeah, but arrogance isn’t
I’m still proud of still, even though like,
bands in our head. We were into the
always a bad thing. I’m not saying
he dies at the end… But ‘Locked Out’,
same bands, like Talking Heads and
we’re always saints with what we do.
there’s nothing dark about that.
The Smiths, but I didn’t know how to
James: We’re dickheads.
James: He got locked out,
put influence into a song. You do that
Rob: We’re not that bad…
that’s scary!
when people compare you to things.
It’s quite a juxtaposition because
Rob: I do that with emotion as
Like when people first said ‘[Sound
you’re represented as quite twee [so
well, I wouldn’t just do that with a
of] Fire’ sounds like gypsy and ska
says Jen Long of Radio 1 and Mike
smile on my face. Most of it sounds
music. That’s when we thought yeah,
Williams of the NME], but then you
happy because I’m looking back
we can write like that, why don’t we
have all this anger. But you started off
on the situation, but that’s one of
add more influences? So, I suppose
being quite twee…
the only songs I wrote literally after
we were lucky that our first song was
Rob: Yeah, but it wasn’t intentionally
it happened. It’s a story about how
okay and not a complete flop.
twee. Because we were young
I was locked out, and it wasn’t my
and naïve.
fault and that’s what matters to you
Do you think another factor
at the age of 13. Obviously, 13
of your success is the fact you
So you’ve lost your naivety?
to 15 doesn’t seem that much of a
play strange instruments?
Rob: Yeah, in terms of our song
difference.
Rob: Even before we had our own
writing. There’s only one way that
original songs, we were doing covers
‘Hollister’ can be performed. It’s the
Do you regress ever y time
in one summer. Obviously we’re
lyrics to the song. I don’t perform it
you sing it?
really young… we’re still young now.
angry because I think “Let’s do it in
Rob: What happened on the day
We still got gigs; we got a gig with
an angry style.” We do it because the
I wrote… when I got locked out, all
Kids in Glass Houses. We still got
lyrics are relevant to how we feel.
of what happens in the lyrics of the
a reputation and stuff like that. We
song… it was alright at first because
wonder how we did that now…
Do you feel emotion ever y time
I get locked out a lot. It happens a
[We get interrupted by seagulls…]
you sing a song then?
lot “but this time it’s not my fault”.
Rob: It must be part of our success;
Rob: (nods)
But as people started to let me down
it must be to do with our instruments.
We were getting recognition from
ourselves too seriously and people
Three things you’d take to a
people through the things we do, like
can’t take it. And metal bands do.
desert island:
busking, playing open mics, even
James: We prefer to laugh at
Rob: A film: Human Traffic. A CD:
before we had our own songs. So
ourselves. When it comes to this
Goldie Lookin’ Chain’s Greatest
that’s what it must be.
genre of music, whatever genre we
Hits… cause (in a GLC accent) it’s
play… You learn to laugh at yourself,
their greatest hits! Not just their
Do you think people still treat
but then you do take it seriously. You
worst hits.
you like that, as this one
get really serious about stuff.
Joel: They haven’t got ‘Bad Boy
dimensional thing?
Rob: That’s the idea.
Limp’ on there though.
Rob: I think we need to record more.
James: If people take the piss out of
Rob: Yeah, but still, ‘Shop Mobility’.
We know there’s more dimensions to
us, then I don’t really care, because
All: Shop mobility! Shop shop
us, but I’m not sure really. We haven’t
they’ve listened to us and they know
mobility! Shop mobility! Shop
got a following…
us. Any sort of reaction we get… I
shop mobility!
don’t care because it’s a reaction.
Rob: And my third thing would be
That’s a weird thing about you
If people don’t have a reaction and
my ukulele, so I could jam out!
guys, you play loads of gigs
are like “uh, oh well” I don’t think
James: I would take my acoustic
but don’t have any fans that
that’s as good as if people are either
guitar, or a better one, that’d be nice.
follow you.
“You’re brilliant” or “You’re crap”
Queen’s Greatest 3, all three actually,
Rob: We know bands like that
because you can’t please everyone,
platinum edition. Three CDs in one,
where only recently they’ve got a
that’s life.
that’s allowed. And I’d probably bring
following… they just did what
Joel: The idea of this band wasn’t
‘Law Abiding Citizens’ so I could
they did.
just to spite people; it was just to do
watch gore and other
James: But that’s because the youth
something different.
such necessities.
music scene is just metal. So we’ve
Joel: First thing would have to be
become underground, and they’re
If you could go back to any
the internet, like on a hard drive,
mainstream. Most of the money made
time in histor y where would
backed up.
out of youth gigs, definitely metal. It’s
you go?
all over facebook.
James: 1986, to see Queen play
The whole internet?
Rob: Those were the kind of
their last tour or gig in Wembley. I’ve
Joel: Yeah, the whole internet, on a
people we were trying to spite in
got the DVD, and it was brilliant. I’d
hard drive, maybe two hard drives.
the first place.
have liked to have been there, but I
And then a computer obviously… and
Joel: I don’t think our intention was
wasn’t. Because you weren’t alive. I
a chair so I could sit and watch it.
trying to spite…
wasn’t alive…
Rob: You could sit on the sand…
James: It was just to be different.
Rob: Joe Strummer and the
Joel: Wait a minute! My computer’s
Rob: It was only in a cheeky way. It
Mescalaros with Mick Jones in that
gonna get sandy… I didn’t think
only became that we actually
Fireman’s Working Club thing, just
of that.
disliked people…
before he died. I would go for there.
James: ...when arguments
Joel: I’d probably go back to the
http://www.facebook.com/
happened.
mid-nineties, cause everyone was
inconsiderateparking
Rob: Because we don’t take
listening to jungle then.
soundscape 39
Elissa Franceschi into the light
Elissa Franceschi is very talented singer/songwriter from Weybridge, She has just released her third independent release ‘Into The Light’ and we were lucky enough to catch up with Elissa so she could tell us about the album tracks and the inspiration behind them. soundscape 34Paul Esp Words:
First week of June Written in my friends dorm room at University, in the middle of the first week of June, this song is about new beginnings. When I was in the studio I added the line ‘I deserve more from a man, but you’re just a boy’, I was obviously feeling particularly angry! What I love most about this track is the interlocking guitar lines towards the end of the track, there is a lot of energy so it was the perfect opening song. Rainbow on Fire This is the most recent song I have written, I wrote it early 2011 after a fight with my boyfriend, I wanted to describe the conflicting feelings of love using imagery. In this case the rainbow is the love but it’s also a reference to the love you have for yourself, your self-worth- the colours melting is a sign that something is wrong. Never be the same Again We kept this so simple in the arrangement as it really didn’t warrant anything other than piano and strings. I only wish I could re-record this track with a live orchestra, that would be amazing! ...One day!
This is a battle that you’ve already Lost
By far the angriest song I have ever written. This was in response to a situation I was dealing with, a girl trying to get in the middle of my relationship by spreading lies etc- playground stuff really that turned pretty nasty a couple of times. The song was really just born out of that frustration of, how can I win this battle, this person is such a piece of work, how do I compete with lies and manipulation. Slowly I came to realise that I had in fact, already won the battlepurely because I was happy and she was not. Salt
Salt was written with the rain pouring down (I was inside) I had been feeling very weird about life and faith and I came up with these opening chords that I recorded as a string part on my mac. The words totally fell out my mouth and over those chords. I played around with the concept of ‘you don’t care’ for a while, it feels pretty devastating in hindsight so I added ‘are you standing right there’ as the final line to offer some hope for the song. I got my brother Josh on it as it was
the one track that made sense for him to sing on, I think our voices sound really cool together and I’d love to play it live one day, as a duet. Flirt
Flirt is the oldest song on the record, dating back to my early student days, it’s a fictional song but has it’s theme rooted in what all people go through when you see your person/or ex flirting with someone newit’s crushing. Watching you flirt is like a cannonball to the stomach is my favourite line, because I think, that is genuinely what it feels like! I decided to keep the production on this track very stripped almost like an acoustic version, I love the raw live cello mixed with the messed up synth strings. Half a Heart
Once I invested in a mac and learnt my way around the basics of Logic I came to realise a whole new avenue for my songwriting. This track is the best example of where I wrote the ‘hook’ and simply looped it around adding layers one by one. [cont]
soundscape 41
Half a heart is my way of presenting how it feels for a girl to give herself to a guy, what happens when things go wrong and you feel like you’ve lost a part of yourself because your personality is somehow altered. It’s also about the idea that you can only love someone else once you love yourself, that’s a concept all girls struggle with in their teens, i know i did.
the first minute. I can’t wait to play this one live with a band!
like ‘Elliot’ is the closest to a dance song I’ve written.
Rocks and Tears
Over
This track was written in my first year of uni during a hard time, I was really lonely and figuring everything out, as most kids are at that age. I re-worked it to put a new passion into the vocal, I’m really pleased with it and I hope others get it.
Not much to say about ‘Over’ other than it is the most stripped and raw song on the album, with just piano and one take vocals.again a very old song, re-worked.
Becoming the Enemy
Elliot
This track took a totally different shape once we decided to open it on guitar, I kept the piano lick but moved it onto an electric rhodes. The ‘you’re becoming the enemy oh!’ refrain was shifted to the forefront of the chorus to introduce it sooner, because we noticed it was the strongest part of the song, you want to grab people in
This song is an amalgamation of two, and is about two different people altogether, I just ‘used’ the guy with the cooler name! I had to get James on this as I knew his soulful rock voice would be the perfect fit for the call and response dialogue. In the studio it was a lot of fun to get the soaring guitars and the heavy drums down, feels
Into the Light
My most favourite song on the album as it’s the one full of hope and excitement for the future. It’s exactly where I am right now personally and in my career and I just love how the arrangement came together in the studio. In some ways it’s the most simple chorus I’ve ever written, but when you layer up the vocal lines, strings and guitar we were able to give it a much more epic, fuller sound.
‘Into The Light’ is available on iTunes and CD from www.elissafranceschi.com
soundscape 42
cd reviews the nail in the coffin of what is a truly outstanding EP that somewhat restores faith in the hard rock music scene. If this is what they can conjure from touring in an EP, we thoroughly look forward to their next LP. Right now, we’re off to destroy something having been left in an intense high after listening to this. Words: N Ballantyne
track, with lots of charm. Each track has it’s own theme, but all are amazing. It’s a beautiful peace of artistry and a great start for any band. Words: Anneka Sillitoe
the amsterdam red light district I’m Not Insane EP 9/10
Essentially four tracks that’ll blow you away. If you like your metal with some fist pumping riffs, distinct raging vocals with a clash of emotional sung choruses, along with a fast pace that’ll make you want to trash whatever room you’re in, then it’s for you. It’s hard to put your tongue on the right ‘genre’ for them, it’s a mix of hard rock, punk, break downs and solos, with a constant flow that circle pits were made for. It takes a few listens to really appreciate the detail in depth of every song, and in saying that, it’s easy to listen to these four tracks over and over and over again. Final track “What would you say if the world was listening?’ really hits
butch walker and the black widows crosses ep
8/10
Chino Moreno is famed for fronting the nu metal titans Deftones, but new side project Crosses have just released their first EP. While there are elements of Deftones in there, it’s hits more in the electronica/ alternative sort of ball park. It’s brilliantly written, melodic and soothing. Track “This is a Trick” features additional bass from Duff McKagan of Guns ‘n’ Roses/Velvet Revolver fame and packs punch. ‘Option’ is an incredibly catchy
the spade 10/10
My love and ever so slightly disturbing obsession with Butch Walker has been documented, well, everywhere, and I don’t plan to stop anytime soon. The Spade is Butch’s 6th solo album and his second with The Black Widows (Chris Unck and Fran Capitanelli on Guitar and Jake Sinclair on bass). It’s his first to be released officially in the UK on independent label Lojinx. To describe the album in one sentence, twitter style, I’m going to go for ‘Fun fuelled, rock n roll party monster’ because what shines through on this record is ‘fun’. [cont]
It sounds like BW and the BW’s had an absolute blast making this record. First song ‘Bodega’s and Blood’ has a slide guitar filled foot stomper. Butch is famed for his songwriting but this record is the first to feature songs written by the other members of the Black Widows. Second track ‘Everysinglebodyelse’ is one of these, written by Chris Unck and Michael Trent (The Films). The album continues with a collection of just great songs. ‘Day Drunk’ is another great foot stomper and ‘Closest Thing To You I’m Gonna Find’ has probably the best Butch vocal I’ve heard. It gives me goosebumps every time I hear it and has a melody that’ll stay with you. The album officially ends with ‘Sucker Punched’, a cracking song driven with a great riff and handclaps. If you’ve already heard Butch then I’m sure I’m preaching to the converted but if you haven’t please check out this album, you’ll be in for a great time. Words: Paul Esp
Elissa Franceschi into the light
10/10
The music business these days seems to be filled with female solo singers of varying (if any) talent, so it is great to find one who has talent by the bucket load and actually writes and performs her own music and lyrics.
I am a little late to the party with Elissa, this is actually her third independent release and it has to be said the 12 tracks on offer here and nigh on faultless. The sound is pop/rock, some songs are predominately piano based, the quality of the songwriting is top notch and Elissa has an amazing voice. The album is a great mixture of tunes from the uptempo pieces like ‘This is a battle you have already lost’ to piano and voice only tracks, like the immense ‘Over’, both handled superbly by Elissa. She has the ability to sing in an almost ethereal whisper but also belt them out. My favourite song on the album at the moment is ‘Eliot’, an absolutely stunning song on which Elissa duets with James Veck-Gilodi from Deaf Havana. The song has a monster melody line and chorus that’ll just stick in your head so that you’re humming it constantly. I suppose I should mention the other duet on the album, the song ‘Salt’ features Josh Franceschi from You Me At Six (Yep, that’s where you’ve heard the name before, Elissa is Josh’s sister). A great song and the siblings voices sound great together but You Me At Six fans already know this as Elissa sang on ‘Always Attract’. The album was produced by John Mitchell, who did a great job of capturing the album flawlessly. This is a great album, independently produced and released and if there is any justice Elissa deserves to be a huge, huge star. Words: Paul Esp
suicide silence the black crown 7/10
Apparently this album was written from listening to what fans wanted, but fans can be wrong. Most would want another ‘The Cleansing’ and others a more grown up sound, which is what Suicide Silence should of done. It’s expected of bands, so why not? They seem more aware of structure and what they’re writing and who for, but those kids who think ‘louder is better’ are bound to judge and dismiss it against early works such as The Cleansing. With songs ‘Destruction Of A Statue’ and ‘The Price of Beauty’, which contain more soul destroying break downs, growls and everything you’d expect a death metal band to be about , I’m glad they didn’t take that fully route again. Violence, the truth, a fuck everything manner is a key hit within all of Suicide Silence’s albums. Lyrically the album doesn’t feel too strong. Hit single ‘You Only Live Once’ feels repetitive
and the only thing to carry it is the crunching guitars, but there’s something about it, an edge that even though you know it feels similar you’ll listen to it again and again. The guitars really do drive this album, making it a fresh appeal from earlier work, more distinctive and thought about than throwing a few breakdowns in here and there. A surprise to hear Korn’s Jonathan Davies vocals on Witness The Addiction, but surprisingly fitted well.
up ‘Whatever Happened To You’ is
To those disappointed, think again. Listen again. And appreciate how far Suicide Silence have come and created. You asked for it.
The band, completed by Josh
Words: N Ballantyne
they do and the album sounds crystal
probably Every Avenue’s hardest track to date but that still doesn’t stop it having a kick ass chorus. The album is no filler whatsoever. ‘Fall Apart’ and ‘Someday, Somehow’ being brilliant example’s of the bands songwriting from singer David Stauchman. One of Every Avenue’s major plus points is David, the guy has a hell of a set of pipes and sure can carry a tune and this shines on piano ballad ‘I Cant Not Love You’.
Withenshaw and Jimmie Deeghan on Guitar, Matt Black on Bass and Dennis Wilson on Drums are great at what clear thanks to the production from Aaron Sprinkle (Anberlin, Copeland, Mx Px among others). All in all a great album, this should definitely be on your purchase list.
Words: Paul Esp
every avenue bad habits 9/10
‘Bad Habits’ is Michigan five piece Every Avenue’s third full length album. This isn’t a huge diversion from the bands pop/punk meets modern rock
fly this for me making shadows 8/10
style and sound but as always with Every Avenue, the songwriting is excellent. First song ‘Tie Me Down’ kicks us off in style! Full of adrenaline, melodies and curse words! Next track
use of dynamics and rhythmic patterns this four track gives a strong display of musicianship and an inherent awareness of style. With sugar coated guitar melodies that would make Funeral For a Friend shed a tear and vocals reminiscent of the bloke from Rise Against, Fly This For Me are off to a cracking start.
Making Shadows is the debut offering from this spritely Surrey quintet and it’s an impressive effort to say the least. Combining clever
Full of energy, brimming with pop-tastic, toe-tapping ideas and a chorus that will no doubt make a mockery of quite a few young ladies undergarments, opening track “She Said” is clearly a statement of intent as to what this band have in store. And it’s not a one off. “We all fall” and title track “Making Shadows” maintain momentum and briefly nod towards somewhat heavier, more technical territories without losing an ounce of charm (clever boys). Final track “Rock Bottom” wraps things up nicely but the aforementioned toetapping is primarily reserved for the opener and title track. Having been together a mere 8 months, “Making Shadows” is overall, a very promising effort from the Guildford boys. Brilliantly produced, oozing energy and conviction this four track is an impressive collection of material from a band I’m sure we’ll be hearing more about in the near future. Be warned though, this might not be the best option for the facial haired chin stroker among us, but my thumbs are up for FTFM. Words: Adam Thomas
soundscape 45
Words: N Ballantyne
and general pop rock culture. As the EP pushes on it grows on you, the tracks seem to get better as if they’ve left the best for last. Final track ‘This Feels Like Home’ taking home the hit track award, and by the end you’re somewhat hoping for more, in a good way. They’re going to need determination to stick to their guns and outdo others in the pop-rock genre, but it’s a promising start. Words: N Ballantyne
kill the weekend
kids in glass houses
A fair effort for their second EP, not fantastic but hopefully a start to really diving down into their true sound for a future album. Arguably fans of other pop rock acts such as You Me At Six may take an interest but might find themselves losing interest. It’s an average EP in terms of the genre they’ve entered themselves in to, aside from the fact fans come and go as they grow older. Pop rock is a tricky one.
I don’t think Welsh band Kids In Glass Houses need much of an introduction but ‘In Gold Blood’ is the bands third full length album and in my opinion, the best. The band have written some excellent songs but the albums have always seemed a little patchy, but with ‘In Gold Blood’ every song is bang on!
it’s sweet to hear and doesn’t get irritation. Even by the end of the album where you’re sick to death of country and every song has the same twist, it doesn’t on this album, it’s keeps on feeling fresh.
Blitzen trapper American goldwing 8/10
It feels like a perfect little slice of America for you to keep on record. If you like your country rock, definitely check this album out.
Ten seconds into the first track Fletcher and I’m thinking ‘What the hell am I listening to’, ten seconds later and I’m realising why they’ve titled the album American Goldwing. Such a classic American sound to the tracks, it’s soothing, and makes you daydream of hiring one of those fancy cars and hitting those long American highways on a journey to escape reality. A mix of alternative country folk, not a genre you come across a lot or listen to unless you’re in America and need something to get you in the mood for feeling care free and happy about the world, or life. They mix it well though, track ‘You’re Crying Eyes’ feels modern, something you could ‘boogie’ to in the 60s, but moves straight back in country rock with ‘My Home Town’. It’s great if you’re looking for something to relax to not so much for a party. The melodic vocals and gentle beats really give you a sense of emotion from the singer,
lias and lovers 7/10
Slower track ‘Strength In Innocence’ breaks the EP down and proves it’s not all about the fast rhythms and sing alongs about girls
in gold blood 9/10
The band have matured into a world class rock band who can pen a cracking and memorable tune. ‘Gold Blood’, the first song on the album is a grower, wasn’t sure at first, but love it now.
sweet sounding chorus. The band move from great pop songs like ‘Teenage Wonderland’ to ‘80’s sounding classic rock monsters like ‘Diamond Days’, to edgy rock numbers like ‘Animals’ without missing a beat. The band obviously have the whole ‘writing a great song’ thing sussed. If you’ve written KIGH off in the past give this album a listen, it may just change your mind. Words: Paul Esp
‘Stay Young’ features a helping throat from Sean Smith of The Blackout! It has that bounce-a-long and sing-a-long chorus, definitely a favourite for many. The album doesn’t vary that much but with tracks as good as ‘10.08.04’ and ‘Fake It Like You Mean It’, they don’t have to.
The songs here are all driven along by Kyle’s voice, which is sublime. On last track ‘Seratone’ he goes from a sweet, to almost falsetto, to an emotional howl and it sounds amazing. This a fantastic first release. You can download some of the EP for free for a limited time on Kyle’s Facebook page. Words: Paul Esp
Produced by Welsh superman Romesh Dodangoda, the sound is good as you’ve come to expect from his production and really adds to the class of the album. Words: Paul Esp
the cab
save your breath
symphony soldier 7/10
vices 8/10
Save Your Breath are a great pop/ punk band from Newport, South Wales and ‘Vices’ is the bands debut album. First track here ‘Nothing Worth Having Comes Easy’ sets the tone for the album, it’s feeling big. The bands sound is definitely more on the punk side, with frantic, driving drums and slamming riffs. New(ish) vocalist Kristian Richards is a great fit to the band, his voice sounds perfect on songs ‘The Lost Boys’ and ‘Vices’.
kyle castellani pseudo romance 8/10
Kyle Castellani was the vocalist for so-cal rock band Nural, whose 2009 album ‘Entitlement’ is still in my top 5 albums of all time. ‘Pseudo Romance’ is his first solo EP. First track ‘Never Live It Down’ is a standout cut, quite an atmospheric number with dark lyrics and a spine tingling vocal. ‘Butterflies’ is somewhat the opposite, an upbeat song with a
This is Las Vegas dance-rock band The Cab’s second album and a follow up to the bands 2008 debut ‘Whisper War’. ‘Symphony Soldier’ definitely carries on the tradition of danceable from first album of catchy as hell pop-rock. This album definitely has a more of a pop feel, moving into Maroon 5 territory and at times singer Alex DeLeon sounds uncannily like Adam Levine. The songs on offer here are quite manufactured, what I mean by that is that it doesn’t sound very organic. [cont] soundscape 47
Keyboards and samples are used quite heavily here, that’s not a bad thing by any means but this adds to the whole level of pop feel to the album. Production comes from John Feldmann (Good Charlotte, Four Year Strong, Neon Tree’s among hundreds others) and really shows off Alexanders voice. Songs ‘Angel With A Shotgun’, ‘Another Me’ and excellent first single ‘Bad’ are great but the songs all meld into one after a while which is disappointing. Words: Paul Esp
book
reviews
danny wallace More awkward situations for men
Danny Wallace books are amazing and if you’ve ever read them you’ll know just how funny they can be. The simple excitements of life mixed with the humorous qualms o
f a man willing to accept nothing but happiness. Danny’s stories are beyond awesome and leave you embarrassing yourself on the metropolitan line as you cry with laughter (I know I’ve been there!) More awkward situations for men is another collection of Danny’s weekly columns for magazine Shortlist and pull together the things many of us feel awkward about but don’t often laugh about enough later. Well not Danny! We laughed with him in Awkward Situations for Men and now we can laugh more with More Awkward Situations for Men. You should grab this book for an amazingly funny read or simply to cheer you up in a down moment as it’s a great dip in and out of title with it’s short stories. However I think you should grab it so you don’t see everyone reading it on a packed tube, well everyone but you that is... Because then, that will be awkward! Words: Anneka Sillitoe
corey taylor seven deadly sins
It seems musicians writing books these days is all the rage. And writing an autobiography is the in thing. But rockstar Corey Taylor has taken a bit of a different spin on things. Whilst yes, it’s partly an autobiography, it dabbles in
the humans qualities and those “ideals” of the seven deadly sins and how they do and in many places don’t really fit into the real world and especially his life. The book jumps around a lot, so at times it can be hard to follow; so if you’re like me it can take a hell of a long time to get into it. But persistence does pay off when you find a gem of a quote like “The difference between a philosopher and a fanatic is about as thin as the profit margin at a casino, but at the end of the day it is very clear. A philosopher thinks out loud to make things better for everyone else. Fanatics make themselves louder because they think they are better than everyone else”. If you’re into your rock biographies you definitely like this, but it’s not for the faint hearted as there’s some rather graphic detailing. But it’ll definitely get you thinking. Words: Anneka Sillitoe