Top Five: Musical Theatre Cast Recordings

Musical Theatre has been a strong point of interest for me for the past few years. Upon recently learning that I’m taking a trip to New York for my birthday (thanks mum) where it’s beyond guaranteed that I’ll be catching at least one Broadway show, this seemed like the perfect time to write about some of my favourite musical theatre albums.

Waitress: Original Broadway Cast Recording

Based on the 2006 film of the same name, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a waitress stuck in an unhappy marriage to her bullying husband Earl. After unexpecting falling pregnant Jenna sets her sights on a pie contest and its grand prize to escape and make a new life for her and her baby.

Opening just over a year ago, Waitress is currently one of the most successful Broadway productions. Waitress is the first production to have an exclusively all-women’s creative team behind it with music and lyrics by singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles. Starring tony-award winner Jessie Mueller, Waitress originally made its Broadway debut in April 2016 with the original cast recording following in June.

With a magnificent score including ‘Opening Up’, ‘Everything Changes’ and the heart-wrenching ‘She Used to Be Mine’ the Waitress cast recording is a must-listen for any musical theatre fan.

School of Rock the Musical – Original Broadway Cast Recording

School of Rock the Musical is Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most recent venture. An adaption of the 2003 hit film starring Jack Black, the story follows Dewey Finn, an out-of-work rock musician who ends up pretending to be a substitute teacher at a very prestigious school. Dewey is quick to form a band with his students and attempts to win a battle of the bands competition.

The production opened on Broadway in December 2015 and made its West End premiere in November 2016. The original Broadway cast recording was released on December 5^th 2015, just a day before the musical’s opening night. Featuring Alex Brightman and Sierra Boggess as Dewey Finn and Rosalie Mullins, respectively. One of the standout elements of School of Rock is that the show features a children’s ensemble who play instruments live throughout the show, members of the original Broadway cast recorded several instrumental parts on the cast recording.

Including songs such as ‘You’re in the Band’, ‘Where Did the Rock Go’ and ‘Stick It To The Man’ School of Rock’s cast recording is bound to get you rocking.

Miss Saigon: Live from the Prince Edward Theatre

Miss Saigon tells the tale of Kim, who was orphaned by war, and, an American GI called Chris. Soon after meeting the two fall in love but their lives are quickly torn apart by the fall of Saigon. With music and lyrics by Claude-Michel Schonberg and Alain Boublil, the team beside Les Miserables, Miss Saigon is one of the most renowned productions around the world.

The West End revival premiered in May 2014 at the Prince Edward Theatre. The revival cast included Eva Noblezada as Kim, Jon Jon Briones as the Engineer and Alistair Brammer as Chris. A 25^th anniversary gala performance was held on the 22^nd of September 2014 which featured many members of the original West End production joining the current cast for a special finale. The performance was recorded and released in its entirety on News Years Day 2014 with a live DVD released in late 2016.

Featuring stellar performances of songs including ‘The Movie in my Mind’, ‘Last Night of the World’ and ‘I’d Give My Life for You’ the definitive recording of Miss Saigon is an incredible listen, and, with the production just opening on Broadway featuring Eva Noblezada, Jon Jon Briones and Alistair Brammer reprising their roles America is definitely in for a treat.

Wicked – Original Broadway Cast Recording

Wicked is the untold story of the witches of OZ, based on the Gregory Maguire novel; The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. With music and lyrics by Stephan Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman. The story is told from the perspective of two unlikely friends; Elphaba; the wicked witch of the west, and, Glinda; the good witch of the north. The story begins before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz and continues after.

Wicked opened on Broadway in October 2003 starring Idina Menzel as Elphaba and Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda. The West End production opened three years later, in September 2006. As of 2017 Wicked is one of the most long-running productions on both Broadway and the West End, running for 13 years in New York and 10 years in London. Since its inception, the production has toured in many places across the world including Australia, Manila, Singapore, the UK and North America.

The original Broadway cast recording was released on December 16^th 2003. Featuring the likes of ‘The Wizard & I’, ‘Dancing Through Life’ and the anthemic ‘Defying Gravity’ it’s no wonder Wicked has achieved such critical acclaim.

Kinky Boots – Original West End Recording

Kinky Boots, based on the 2006 film of the same, follows the story of Charlie Price who inherits a shoe factory from his father and in-lists the help of drag queen Lola to produce a line of high-heeled boots for men and save the business. In the process, Charlie and Lola discover that they’re not so different from one another. With music and lyrics by two-time Grammy award winner Cyndi Lauper. Kinky Boots opened on Broadway in April 2013. The production went on to received 13 Tony award nominations and went on to win 5.

The West End production opened at the Adelphi theatre in September 2015. Featuring Killian Donnelly as Charlie, Matt Henry as Lola and Amy Lennox as Lauren. The production won numerous WhatsOnStage and Olivier Awards following its debut. The show has recently celebrated its 600^th West End performance.

The original west end cast recording was recorded during a live performance at the Adelphi theatre and was released on the 1^st of April 2016. The album went on to be nominated for a Grammy Award for ‘Best Musical Theatre Album’. Featuring incredible performances from Killian Donnelly and Matt Henry on the uplifting ‘Everybody Say Yeah and ‘Raise You Up/Just Be’ as well as the heart-breaking ‘Not My Father’s Son’ and ‘Hold Me in Your Heart’ Kinky Boots’ West End recording is an album that everyone’s sure to enjoy. 

EP Review: No Insight – ‘Chasing Memories’

London based pop-punkers No Insight, consisting of Gian Astacaan (Guitar/Vocals), Joe Papworth (Bass/Vocals) and Rich Alexander (Drums/Vocals) have been gigging around the south-coast since forming in early 2016. Having shared the stage with bands including Better Than Never and Fierce Morgan. The band are currently gearing up for the release of their debut EP ‘Chasing Memories’ which is set to be released on March 30^th through Shipwreck Records. Clocking in at just 10 minutes long No Insight have delivered a short, fast-paced introduction to their nostalgic energetic brand of pop-punk.

Debut single and EP opener ‘These Days’ starts off with an early Green Day style guitar riff before breaking into a full-band driving rhythm to carry the verses. Papworth’s punk-style vocals contrast with Astacaan’s throughout the verses, and, are at their most effective as the song kicks into a catchy chorus that’s bound to get sing-a-longs started.

Title track ‘Chasing Memories’ sees a more pop-rock orientated direction with a sound that’s reminiscent of early Busted, with the rhythm section pulling the verses along as Astacaan talks about the classic pop-punk cliché of wanting to get out of your hometown. The distortion is amped up for the chorus and a guitar solo is introduced the second-time round. The track comes to a close with a final chorus featuring an array of gang vocals.

EP closer ‘If I’m Rick, You’re Morty’ (who doesn’t love a good Rick and Morty reference?) kicks in similarly to ‘These Days’ with a standalone guitar riff before bursting into a full band instrumental with a melodic guitar melody. The verses see Papworth taking a lead in with the vocals while Astacaan delivers supporting lyrics in a call and response style. The chorus continues to deliver what the previous two tracks have, in a short fast burst of energy. The song takes a dynamic shift as the lyrics ‘We can last forever, better late than never’ are repeated before jumping into a final chorus to close out the record.

‘Chasing Memories’ is due to be released on March 30th via Shipwreck Records.

No Insight are also scheduled to perform at the Asylum 2 in Birmingham on April 29th.

Keep up with the band on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NoInsightUK/

Album Review: Sorority Noise – ‘You’re Not As ____ As You Think’

Emo four-piece Sorority Noise have been climbing higher and higher in the scene over the past few years with the release of their debut album, Forgettable, and, 2015’s follow up ‘Joy, Departed’. Since forming in 2013 the band have been on numerous US tours and festival appearances, sharing the stage with bands including Turnover, Modern Baseball and Citizen. They have also made their way overseas to the UK and Europe for the first time. 

Friday 17^th March saw the release of the quartet's third album ‘You’re Not As ___ As You Think’ via Triple Crown Records. An album that is heavily centred around the struggles of mental health and the loss of loved ones. Consisting of ten songs that are pained with raw and honest emotion and an altogether mournful undertone. Despite this, the message that Sorority Noise have managed to deliver with their third album is still an uplifting one that has hope at the forefront: tell people you love them while you still can and never be afraid to reach out for help. This isn’t a record to be brushed by; to be a soundtrack in the background of day-to-day activities. This is a record to be concentrated on, to be listened to from front to back with no distractions. In short, if you’re going to completely immerse yourself in a new album, make it this one.

The contrast between the bright, uplifting instrumental and the bleak lyricism is what carries the album but vocalist, Cameron Boucher’s, brutal honesty is what makes the record such a fulfilling listen. ‘You’re Not As ___ As You Think’ is the follow-up to 2016’s ‘It Kindly Stopped for Me’ EP that was dedicated to a close friend that Boucher had lost. This album serves as the next step as Boucher delves even further into the emotions felt when dealing with grief. Recorded with producer Mike Sapone, who’s back-catalogue consists of Brand New and Taking Back Sunday. ‘YNA_AYT’ is not unlike the former’s second breakthrough album ‘Deja Entendu’. 

              

Album opener ‘No Halo’ showcases Sorority Noise doing what they do best with a loud chorus layered with jangly guitars as Boucher speaks of missing his friend’s funeral and driving to their house instead. The track closes with him questioning ‘So when you show up to my funeral, will you be wearing white or black?’. Boucher’s questioning within his lyrics is a theme that is followed throughout the entire album. This is particularly demonstrated in ‘Second Letter from St. Julien’ where he questions and tests religion throughout stating ‘If there’s a God do I make him proud?’ before directing his narrative to the friend whom the song is named after asking instead ‘If you’re with God am I making you proud by waking up each day?’

‘A Portrait Of’ sees the second reference, of many, to heaven. With a palm-muted guitar under-laying the vocal melody. The song delves into a hopeful territory as Boucher delivers a spoken word monologue over a heavily distorted outro where he states ‘I have to do everything in my power to be the person I can be and live my life the best way I can.’  

‘Where Are You’ and ‘Car’ present a conversational narrative with the former speaking of wounds being healed and offering a sense of closure. The latter, an empathetic song about the struggles that come with mental health issues and facing grief, delivering a comfort that is; even when you’re feeling completely alone in your struggles there are always people feeling the same way.

Debut single ‘A Better Sun’ is a spoken word track with every lyric beginning with the phrase ‘This is the part where…’ in this vein the song is similar to the teaser video the band previously released for the record, which displays the album title being painted and then the blank being filled in with words including ‘hurt’, ‘happy’ and ‘empty’. The way ‘A Better Sun’ is structured lyrically makes the listener feel as if they could be filling in the blanks at the end of the phrase. It’s a song that is bound to make you feel like a part of the album.  

Penultimate track ‘Leave the fan On’ delivers the most downbeat performance on the record with a simple slow instrumental and a set of lyrics that feel as if Boucher is searching for a direction, answers and purpose within them, all while remembering ‘what it’s like to feel the vacancy’ in his chest. The song kicks into a strong instrumental towards its end in a cathartic outburst that feels like a complete outpour and reflection of every emotion that has been displayed throughout the rest of the album.

By creating an album title that allows the listener to complete its name therefore making it relate all the more directly, ‘You’re Not As ___ As You Think’ is bound to leave an effect on everyone who listens. With a sense of unafraid honesty Sorority Noise have managed to create ten songs that pull you through the process of loss and grief in an album that leaves you with a sense of comfort upon its ending, and, an album that people will surely come back to time and time again to realize that comfort.  

Album Review: Vukovi – ‘Vukovi’

Glasgow experimental-rock natives Vukovi have just released their debut self-titled album. Over the past few years the band have built up a solid fan-base, performed on numerous tours around the UK and released three EPS, 2011’s ‘…But I Won’t Wear You Again’ and ‘It Looked So Good On Me’ and, 2012’s ‘Sweet Swears’. The band originally formed with current members; Hamish Reilly (Guitar), Jason Trotter (Bass) and Colin Irving (Drums) under the name ‘Wolves’ soon recruited vocalist Janine Shilstone and renamed themselves Vukovi.

Latest single ‘La Di Da’ sets off the album at a fast pace with a distortion packed dark instrumental. There’s a similarity to the sound that ‘Love, Robot’ captured on their second album ‘B.A.D.’ Almost immediately you can hear that this isn’t a record that’s going to hold back lyrically, with the track delving into the story of an abusive relationship. Second track ‘And He Lost His Mind’ follows the pace set by ‘La Di Da’, a menacing guitar riff driven song that touches on the subject of alcohol and drug abuse and its affects.

‘Weirdo’ sets a lighter tone, with a bouncy introduction and a heavy pop-rock sensibility, track six ‘Bouncy Castle’ follows in the same vein with electronic elements shining through the chorus with the track truly living up to its name, it really is bouncy. This is just the first taste of the versatility of the record. Track eight ‘I’m Wired’ also captures the band’s pop-rock side, with a dance feel, more electronics carrying the chorus, and, one of the most powerful vocal performances on the album, it’s reminiscent of PVRIS track St. Patrick.

‘Prey’ and ‘Boy George’ showcase the albums more aggressive moments. ‘Prey’ is led by a powerful guitar melody and highlights some of the best lyricism on the record with the chorus melody stating ‘We are deadly monsters waiting for you under your bed'. ‘Boy George’ is riff heavy and bursting with attitude held down by an instrumental that’s derived influence from Rage against the Machine.

Closing track ‘Colour Me In’ serves as a curve-ball and an absolute highlight for the album. An emotional track that details love for somebody close whether they’re still here or not. Making for the slowest track on the album, a dreamy guitar melody and simple drumbeat support the vocals throughout the verses before building up into a strong chorus displaying the lyrics ‘You colour me in from my skin to my bones’.  Eventually cascading into a powerful bridge followed by a soaring guitar solo and a final chorus.

With their debut album Vukovi have proved that they’re a band you can’t pigeonhole. With twelve excellent songs that balance between alternative rock and pop. Being unafraid to touch on serious subject matter throughout the entire record also makes it an incredibly honest listen. With such a strong debut album it’s guaranteed you’ll be seeing and hearing a lot more of Yukovi in the future.

‘Vukovi’ is currently available to purchase on ITunes.

Watch the official music video for ‘La Di Da’ here -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXPM8nXR3Z8

Album Review: Mallory Knox – ‘Wired’

Since forming in 2009 Mallory Knox have released two albums, played numerous festival slots across the UK, including Reading and Leeds, and, performed at BBC Maida Vale studios. The band have just stormed back onto the scene with the release of their third album ‘Wired’ that is currently sitting at number one on the UK rock album charts. ‘Wired’ sees a shift in direction from the band’s second record ‘Asymmetry’, the album spans eleven songs and touches on the subjects of love, lust, religion, family and mental health.

Opening with lead single ‘Giving It Up’ sets the record off to a fast-paced start as vocalist, Mikey Chapman, drives the verses with a series of powerful high-notes before crashing into a hard-hitting chorus making for a great album opener.

The band shed a more light-hearted tone on the record with ‘California’, with a pop-rock sensibility, led by a colourful guitar melody and a sunny chorus that’s guaranteed to get a crowd dancing. Track five ‘Midnight’ also rectifies the tone with a bouncy guitar rhythm and what could easily be the catchiest chorus the record has to offer.

‘For You’ sees the album slow down as Chapman delivers a letter of confessions and apologies as he weaves the story of struggles with mental health, a portion of the album’s songs were derived from bassist/vocalist Sam Douglas’ personal struggle with anxiety. Douglas has previously described the track as ‘a love song without having to say ‘I love you’. With simple instrumentation and a delightful vocal melody ‘For You’ is bound to become a fan-favourite.

‘Better Off Without You’ follows in the same vein as track four, the song details Douglas confronting his feelings towards seeing doctors and being prescribed medication. Speaking of the song Douglas’ described it as being ‘born out of (that) frustration’ and that frustration is clear as soon as the song kicks in with an aggressive instrumental as Chapman delivers the lyrics ‘You’ve got it all wrong, you think I’m indestructible’.

Track seven, ‘Falling in Love’ shifts in dynamics with nothing but a palm-muted guitar rhythm supporting the vocal melody for the first minute and a half, with a pre-chorus that shows of Chapman’s lyricism as he sings ‘I lit a match to let the light in but the demons tried to sneak in’ followed by a chorus hook that simply states ‘I kept on falling in love’. At the two minute mark the song bursts into life with a full band instrumental crashing in which gives the chorus a huge increase in impact.

‘Lucky Me’ and ‘Saviour’ jump right back into the fast-pace shown throughout the majority of the album. ‘Lucky Me’ is a solid guitar riff driven track while ‘Saviour’ demonstrates a highlight for the rhythm section as it powers the verses on before an epic chorus commences with Chapman displaying just how powerful his voice can be.

Closing track ‘Mother’ ends the album on a high. A heartfelt uplifting song that serves as a message from the band members to their parents, similar to You Me At Six track ‘When We Were Younger’ which, incidentally, was also the closing track on their third album ‘Sinners Never Sleep’. Featuring a chorus full of gang vocals and soaring guitar melodies ‘Mother’ is a triumphant ending to a brilliant record.

With the release of ‘Wired’ it’s clear that Mallory Knox have delved head-first into a new vision and are back with something to prove and with an exceptionally strong record full of risk-takes they couldn’t have started this new chapter any better. 

International Women’s Day: Five Musical-Theatre Productions Celebrating Women

Today is international women’s day, a day that commemorates the movement for women’s rights. I thought it would be fitting to write an article celebrating a number of musical theatre productions that include creative contributions, centre around and celebrate strong women.

Fun Home

Fun Home is the musical adaption of Alison Bechdel’s graphic memoir of the same name. With music by Jeanine Tesori and the book and lyrics by Lisa Kron. The production centres on Bechdel during her coming of age. The story particularly focuses on Bechdel’s discovery of her own sexuality, her relationship with her father and her attempts to solve the mystery's surrounding his death. Fun Home is the first Broadway musical to have a lesbian protagonist.

With three actresses playing Alison at different stages of her life, 43 year old Alison serves as the shows narrator, 19-year-old ‘medium Alison’ is a first year college student discovering her sexuality and, 10-year-old ‘small Alison’ is struggling against her father’s expectations and demands.

After opening in April 2015, Fun Home went on to be nominated for 10 Tony awards and took home 5, including ‘best musical, ‘best book of a musical’, ‘best original score and ‘best featured actress in a musical’

Waitress

Waitress, based on the 2006 film of the same name, tells the tale of Jenna, a waitress who is stuck in an unhappy marriage to her bullying husband Earl. After unexpectedly falling pregnant Jenna, with the help of her friends and co-workers, Becky and Dawn, sets her sights on a pie contest and its grand prize as a chance to create a new life for her and her baby.

Waitress is the first Broadway musical to have an exclusively all-women’s creative team. With music and lyrics by singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, a book by Jessie Nelson. The production was directed by Diane Paulus and choreographed by Lorin Latarro.

Waitress opened in April 2016, starring tony-award winner Jessie Mueller, who previously originated the role of Carole King in ‘Beautiful’. The show was nominated for four Tony-Awards including ‘best musical’, ‘best original score’ and ‘best performance by a leading actress in a musical’.  

The Color Purple

The Color Purple, based on the 1982 novel by Alice Walker, follows the story of Celie, an African-American women in the American south from the early to mid-20^th century. With music and lyrics by Brenda Russel and Allee Willis, and, a book by Marsha Norman. The original Broadway production ran from 2005 – 2008 and earned 11 Tony Award nominations in 2006.

A Broadway revival ran from 2015 – 2017 and gained four Tony-Award nominations, winning two including ‘best revival of a musical’ and ‘best actress in a musical’ The revival starred Cynthia Erivo, who won was awarded the Tony award for best actress for her portrayed of Celie. The show also starred Jennifer Hudson, who made her Broadway debut as Shug, Danielle Brooks as Sofia, and, Joaquina Kalukango as Nettie.

Gypsy

Gypsy is a story that is loosely based on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, and focuses on her mother Rose who name has become greatly associated with ‘the ultimate show business mother’. The musical follows Rose’s efforts to raise her two daughters to perform onstage and gain a show business lifestyle. Gypsy has been referred to numerous times as ‘the greatest American musical’ by several writers and critics.

The production originally opened on Broadway in 1959 starring Ethel Merman and has since been revived four times with Angela Lansbury, Tyne Daly, Bernadette Peters and Patti Lupone portraying the role of Rose. The original Broadway production received a Grammy award for ‘best musical theatre album’. Following the original Broadway production a film adaption was released in 1962.

A West End revival opened in 2015 starring Imelda Staunton. The production received numerous Olivier, Evening Standard and WhatsOnStage awards nominations with Staunton taking home four separate awards for ‘best actress in a musical.

Funny Girl

Funny Girl is a semi-autobiographic story based on the life and career of Broadway star, comedian and film actress Fanny Brice. The story focuses heavily on Brice’s stormy relationship with gambler and entrepreneur Nick Arnstein. With a book by Isobel Lennart, the original Broadway production opened in 1964, starring Barbra Streisand and was nominated for eight Tony Awards. The original Broadway cast recording was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004.

A West End production opened in 2015, starring Sheridan Smith and was nominated for numerous Evening Standard, WhatsOnStage and Olivier awards. The production took home the WhatsOnStage award for ‘Best Musical Revival’. 

From direction, choreography, composition and lyricism to singing, dancing and acting the amount of amazing women that have contributed the world of musical theatre since its inception has been incredible and there's no doubt that every single woman currently in the industry will only continue to inspire future generations of young girls who will go on to keep the world of musical theatre exceptionally strong. 

Gig Review: Pinegrove @ The Haunt – 02/03/17

Since signing to Run for Cover records in late 2015, Pinegrove have achieved critical acclaim through their audiotree online session, released their second album ‘Cardinal’ and headed over shores to the UK and Europe for the first time. Soon after finishing up their debut UK tour they were quick to announce their return in February of this year. Last Thursday night saw Pinegrove performing their last show of their UK run before heading out to finish up the tour in Europe, a sold at show at The Haunt in Brighton.

Opening the night was Hannah Read of art rock band Lomelda. Read delivered a solo set of songs from the band’s back-catalogue. With haunting vocals accompanied by intricate electric guitar melodies Read gave a brilliant performance that set the tone for the rest of the evening. With the venue filling up during her performance, more and more audience members edged towards the front and it was clear she had well-deservedly gained some new fans.

With only a two-band line-up Pinegrove took to the stage next to a very enthusiastic reception. Their set-list seemed to be balanced perfectly with material both old and new. Whether the fans were only familiar with new album ‘Cardinal’ or their entire discography, there was something for everyone over the course of the evening.

The audience’s enthusiasm appeared to double upon hearing the beginning of tracks ‘Size of the Moon’, ‘The Metronome’ and old favourite ‘Angelina’, that was actually requested numerous times throughout the night, the band delivered each and every song with flawless execution and gave back as much enthusiasm as they were receiving from the crowd. 

The set also left room for some new material with the band performing a live debut of new track ‘Rings’, without being informed that it was a live debut I doubt the audience would have guessed by the confidence in the performance. There’s something about Pinegrove’s music that has such a sense of nostalgia even the songs you have yet to hear have a great sense of familiarity to them.

Vocalist, Evan Stephens Hall, delivered a standalone performance of another new track and then mentioned that they would be recording their new album this coming summer. Hall’s speeches throughout the night were as much of a highlight as the bands performance. With one of the most impactful moments of the evening being, after talking about the current state of the world, finishing by exclaiming that ‘These songs are about being respectful to one another and learning how to treat people better’

The band ended the set with ‘Cardinal’ closer ‘New Friends’ before coming back onstage to bring the night to a close with a brilliant encore of ‘Need 2’. Judging by the reaction they received it’s clear that fans are already eagerly awaiting their next UK tour. 

Pinegrove currently have a reissue of their compilation 'Everything So Far' up for pre-order at http://pinegroveuk.limitedrun.com/products/584558-everything-so-far-preorder

Keep up with the band on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/Pinegroveband/

Single Review: The Maine – 'Black Butterflies & Déjà Vu'

As of 2017 The Maine have officially been a band for 10 years, a big feat for any band in this day and age. They commemorated this recently by putting on the 8123 Festival in their hometown of Phoenix Arizona, a day they celebrated with friends including The Summer Set and a reunion performance from A Rocket to the Moon.

Something that is always striking about The Maine is their ability to change and adapt their sound on every record they put out while still retaining the formula that initially hooked fans in with debut album ‘Can’t Stop Won’t Stop’ back in 2008.

The band are currently preparing for the upcoming release of their sixth studio album ‘Lovely Little Lonely’ and have just released brand new single ‘Black Butterflies & Déjà Vu’.

Upon announcing ‘Lovely Little Lonely’ lead single ‘Bad Behaviour’ was released simultaneously. A light-hearted feel-good track that’s bound to get a crowd dancing.

‘Black Butterflies & Déjà Vu’ jumps straight in at a fast-pace with a colourful guitar melody, as soon as it kicks in you can almost taste the nostalgia. Once John O’ Callaghan’s vocals come in the track is similar to something you would have heard in the soundtrack to an early 2000’s teen film and, if you recall the soundtracks to the likes of She’s the Man and John Tucker Must Die, that can’t be a bad thing. The chorus however almost turns the song on its head, leaving just one guitar as O’ Callaghan’s vocals come shining through singing ‘I lose my voice when I look at you, can’t make a noise though I’m trying to’ before a quick rhythm on the high-hat is introduced the second time round and the beginning guitar riff comes crashing back in. Packed with infectious melodies, a compelling chorus and with O’ Callaghan’s lyricism being at the highest standard, if this track is anything to go by, ‘Lovely Little Lonely’ is going to be a phenomenal record.

If ‘Bad Behaviour’ hadn’t already ‘Black Butterflies & Déjà Vu’ just goes on to prove that The Maine are truly a band that you’ll never be able to pigeonhole. As they continue to evolve and develop their sound, with their fans supporting them every step of the way.

‘Lovely Little Lonely’ is set to be released on April 7^th and is currently available to pre-order at https://www.themaineband.com/

Album Review: Conor Lane Guitar – 'Origin'

The follow up to last year’s EP ‘8% Mango’ Lane’s debut album sees a massive step-up in both song writing and production.

Having been the lead guitarist for punk/hardcore band ‘Bear Safari’ since 2012, Lane first began writing solo material in 2013 initially under the persona ‘Life in the Fast Lane’. After accumulating three years’ worth of work he then went on to remarket the project simply under the name ‘Conor Lane Guitar’ and released debut EP ‘8% Mango’.

Almost a year on and he is gearing up for the release of his debut album ‘Origin’. Upon asking what the album means to him Lane quotes ‘If this album were to say anything, it would be to show how I interpret the concept of music, and if that can inspire other people as much as it’s inspired me, then that’s more than I could ever ask for.’

Packed with magnificent guitar work, brilliant orchestrations and featuring guest’s solos by Patrick Somoulay, David Lovejoy and Sims Cashion, Lane has managed to create a record that almost feels as if it could be the soundtrack to blockbuster cinema. In short, if you’re going to listen to an instrumental record this month, make it this one.

Opening the record is debut single ‘Graphite’ coming in at full throttle with a tasteful set of riffs before corresponding into a pre-chorus of chugging. With a synth-like build up bringing to song to a quick stop before diving into to the first guitar solo. Graphite acts as the perfect introduction.

‘2001 DKS’ begins to show the somewhat lighter side of Lane’s song writing, with ambient bass-driven melodies, quite a bizarre song-structure and a beautifully performed guest solo from Patrick Somoulay of Reflections, 2001 feels like a great segway between the opening track and the rest of the album.

Heading back into the grit displayed in ‘Graphite’ are tracks three and four ‘Crimson Cake’ and ‘Miraculous Escape’, the former initially being an instrumental idea for Bear Safari that Lane choose to eventually develop into a solo track. ‘Crimson Cake’ feels like a continuation or sequel to ‘Graphite’ while ‘Miraculous Escape’ features a guest solo from David Lovejoy of Sorrow Plagues and leaves room for a wide range of orchestrations, the type of sounds you’d hear in the build-up within a horror film.

‘This Town’ pulls the record to a slow-down. As well as ‘2001 DKS’ it’s a track that allows room for the bassline to be most prominent, accompanied by a simple drumbeat and delicate guitar that builds up before crashing into a commanding solo and an outro that makes for one of the most soaring on the album.

‘Guttural Alpha’ is a gut-punching instrumental that is backed by chugged chords and layered melodies. Track seven ‘MPLESRUP’ makes for the shortest song on the album at just two minutes and five seconds. Although being the shortest it’s probably the most brutal. The excessive use of guitar bends and the drive behind all the instruments makes it clear that Lane wanted to make the most of what the listener gains from these two minutes.

You’re probably in for a surprise with eighth track ‘Summer’ as it’s the only non-instrumental song on the record, featuring guest vocals from Evertim’s Alex Tuck. The song is reminiscent of early ‘Bullet for my Valentine’ material with Tuck switching between harsh and clean vocals throughout and a chorus melody that supports Lane’s instrumental perfectly.

Penultimate track ‘Rafiki’ bares a resemblance to the orchestrations heard in ‘Miraculous Escape’ creating a suspenseful atmosphere as the song begins. Laced with layered harmonies and some of the most driving rhythm section parts on the album. Topped off with an ending that seems to transition into final track ‘Origin’ effortlessly.

Title track ‘Origin’ closes out the record, at a staggering eight minutes long it’s a combination of everything previously heard and if that weren’t enough a guest solo by Sims Cashion adds an entirely new element to the track in what is a truly anthemic ending.

‘Origin’ will be available from March 8^th on ITunes, Spotify, Deezer and Bandcamp.

Watch the official music video for ‘Graphite’ here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYC1Th5LWiQ

Keep up with Conor on Facebook and Instagram

 https://www.facebook.com/ConorLaneGuitar/?pnref=story

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Single Review: Sainte ‘With or Without Me’

Since We Are The In Crowd announced that they were taking a break in February 2016, past members Tay Jardine (Vocals), Cameron Hurley (Guitars) and Mike Ferri (Bass) have formed brand new project SAINTE.

The three-piece outfit released debut single ‘Technicolor’ back in October. Accompanied by a colourful music video it seemed to have fans hooked immediately. With a huge pop sensibility, hints of electronic elements and an incredibly catchy chorus it’s easy to see why fans were eager to hear more.

After a long awaited few months, Jardine took to Instagram last Sunday to announce the premier of a new song on March 1^st, titled ‘With or Without Me’.

Kicking in with the electronic elements that had been previously introduced in ‘Technicolor’ you can tell you’re in for the same feel-good ride Sainte delivered with their debut single.

Once the verse lands Jardine’s vocals are immediately evocative of early P!NK material, an artist whom she has previously stated as a big influence. The chorus hits with a feisty vocal hook that grabs you instantly, accompanied by a sunny synth melody and vibrant harmonies.

Lyrically the track is quite the opposite of its predecessor, while ‘Technicolor’ has an almost giddy quality, that of the honeymoon phase in a new relationship, ‘With or Without Me’ showcases a defiant attitude towards a recent breakup. With Jardine declaring ‘When it’s over tell your friends that I’m a monster, I’ll be long gone, you’ll never be happy with or without me.’

Fans are now hoping for even more music and a chance to see the band live in the future and, from the basis of what we’ve heard so far, Sainte’s live show could shape up to be an incredibly fun time,

In a recent interview with Rock Sound Jardine admitted that she feels she can express herself naturally with Sainte and, from these two songs, it’s perfectly clear that she’s completely in her element.  

You can watch the new music video for ‘Without or Without Me’ here - 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSfhvLYHQXk

Keep up with Sainte on Facebook and Twitter -

https://www.facebook.com/sainteofficial/

https://twitter.com/saintesays?lang=en

EP Review: Scarecrow Boat – ‘Tell Me I’m Fine’

Hailing from Southampton indie punk four-piece Scarecrow Boat, consisting of Dominic James (Vocals/Guitar), Robin Prince (Vocals/Guitar), Toby Robinson (Vocals/Bass) and Tom Webb (Drums) have been gigging across the UK since forming in 2014, having already supported the likes of Sorority Noise, SWMRS and The Flatliners.

In late 2016 they headed into the studio to record their much-anticipated debut EP at The Ranch Production house with producer Dom Wright. ‘Tell Me I’m Fine’ is set to be released in a few weeks and the band have been kind enough to give me a sneak preview.

The opening track ‘Tap Tap Revenge’ (which I can only assume is named after the IOS/Android game) sets the tone for the EP with an energetic start. Clocking in at just 2 minutes and 29 seconds it makes for the shortest song on the record. Once the vocals kick in the song is immediately reminiscent of bands such as PUP and early Brand New. With a strong instrumental driving the chorus as James’ sings ‘It feels like finally I have a reason to live, and for once in my life I’m not scared of dying’

Having seen Scarecrow Boat live a handful of times, I was aware that ‘Han Solo’ is song about ‘being stabbed in the chest by someone you trusted’ (Star Wars spoilers). While this shows the witty side of the band, the song itself however captures a sense of anxiety and deficiency through the lyrics ‘I’ll never amount to anything/I’m sick of all this stress/You’re not the only one feeling insecure’

With the EP’s description stating that the record touches on subjects such as ‘lost love, not being good enough and hating someone so much you can only express it alphabetically’ it’s easy to work out which category track three, ‘Alphabetti Spaghetti’, falls into. Robin Prince takes over lead vocal duties, with comical lyrics shining throughout and a lead guitar that’s reminiscent of ‘Modern Baseball’s second album ‘You’re Gonna Miss It All’. For a track that’s so hostile I can guarantee you’ll be smiling as you listen.

With Prince still taking hold of lead vocal duties fourth track ‘Picture Perfect’ sees the complete opposite side of the spectrum. A love song that’s packed full of references all the way from Spider-Man to Romeo and Juliet. As well as a bridge that feels like a homage to Brand New track ‘Me VS Maradona Vs. Elvis’ that then kicks into an instrumental outro with a soaring guitar solo before Prince’ reinforces the lyric ‘it’s a picture perfect love story’ one last time.

Closing the EP is a re-recorded version of the band’s debut single ‘Loved’, recently premiered on BBC Introducing Solent. With a guitar riff that instantly hooks you in and a chorus that’s bound to be stuck in your head for days you can immediately understand why the track was chosen as their debut single. It’s also a brilliant note to end the EP on, especially upon finally hearing the lyric ‘tell me I’m fine’.

‘Tell Me I’m Fine’ is due to be released on March 23^rd, you can currently pre-order a copy over at: http://scarecrowboatuk.bigcartel.com/

The band are set to play an EP release show at the Joiners in Southampton on March 23rd. You can buy tickets to the show here - http://joiners.vticket.co.uk/

They will also be embarking on a short UK tour in support of the release. The dates are as follows:

April 7^th – The Unicorn, Camden.     

April 9^th – The Quadrant, Brighton.

April 10^th – Face Bar, Reading.

April 11^th – Gringos, Norwich.

Keep up with the band on Facebook and Twitter –

https://www.facebook.com/ScarecrowBoatPunk/

https://twitter.com/ScarecrowBoatUK