Soundscape Magazine Issue 11

Page 1



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


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