Obsidian Kingdom- Mantiis

Through the wonders of social networking, I recently came across progressive rock band, Obsidian Kingdom; an independent music project founded in Barcelona seven years ago. They first released their debut album ‘Matter’ in 2007, and November 2012 saw the release of their incredible third album ‘Mantiis.’

It’s hard to place Obsidian Kingdom under any particular genre, but they are certainly a definition for experimental rock. Despite a deceiving track listing, ‘Mantiis’ is in fact one whole song split into fourteen, 3-4 minute bite-size sections. From beginning to end we are taken on a fantastic journey, where each section is distinctively different from the next, yet still obviously part of the same story.

Melancholy, emotion and energy – this album is a mix-pot of different genres and styles. A wide range of instruments and playing techniques ensure that our focus is never in one place for too long. Take ‘Last of Light’ for example; this segment starts off with throat wrenching vocals and ear crushing metal guitar… but then casually drifts down into a slow, atmospheric sound-scape led by a gentle guitar solo and followed by a beautiful- slightly psychedelic- saxophone piece. Enough to leave you transfixed. My other highlights from the album are; ‘Answer’s Revealing’ and ‘Genteel to Mention.’

Undoubtedly Obsidian Kingdom have formed their own unique style, however their influences include; Akira Yamaoka, Cult of Luna and the faint experimental echoes of Ulver and Pink Floyd- and what a remarkable combination they have proved to be! The band are all-for the D.I.Y ethos, and have generously provided the link for a free, full album download via their bandcamp page. I thoroughly recommend you give it a click!

http://obsidiankingdom.bandcamp.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtVRAuIZvIU

Russell Swallow and the Wolf- Sunrise Mountain

“Born from a love of Nick Drake, John Martyn and the peace of the countryside”- these are the influences for Russell Swallow and the Wolf’s debut album Sunrise Mountain. Clearly written by a true story teller, this album displays indie-folk music at its best.

My first thought when listening, was the feeling of warmth and emotion that is prominent throughout each acoustic driven song; a sense of comfort, perfect for those cold winter walks with your iPod. Sunrise Mountain is cleverly written; not every song is pumped with drums, and although being fairly lyric-heavy, is perfectly balanced with the gentle acoustic guitar and piano- with various orchestral instruments such as oboes and violins worked into the back ground. My favourite track has to be Newfound Shore, the vocals and subtle recorder, played by Patrick Kenny, makes it truly enchanting- listen and you’ll know what I mean. Two other personal favourites from this album include first track Christmas Eve and third track Paper Aeroplanes, which were both written with generous support from Jess Kennedy A.K.A the wolf, whose beautiful harmonies and piano playing we can hear throughout the album. 

Together, with additional musical contributors, Russell Swallow and the Wolf have crafted a wonderful six-track winter warmer- leaving their listeners eagerly anticipating the next step.

http://rsatw.bandcamp.com/

 

Samantha Horwill- Caught in the Light

A great songwriter captures their listeners by drawing them into a private world, that’s both unique and easy to relate to- something Samantha Horwill does perfectly.

The South African born singer-songwriter has released her debut album Caught in the Light, a delightful, ten track CD full of beautifully written melodies and powerful, thought- provoking lyrics dealing with personal beliefs and ideas of fate and self-determination.  I find Samantha’s music to be incredibly catchy without being annoying- particularly the first track Hang Them High, which also introduces us to Samantha’s distinctive voice; warm, delicate and effortlessly skilled. Her vocals are cleverly worked around the piano, acoustic guitar and steady drum beats, making this modern-folk album definitely worth a listen. Ninth track, Do you remember? is the first single to be released from the album- and what an excellent choice. This song is incredibly intimate, written about the solidarity of sibling relationships and that, despite troubled pasts and painful memories; blood is always thicker than water- apologies for the cliché.

This album features Samantha’s song writing partner, Richard Cruden and was recorded using live takes and heaps of dedication that has, without a doubt, paid off.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saaR9_d0nio

http://www.samanthahorwill.com/

 

The Mire- Volume II

Formed in 2009 by members of the underground acts, Centurion and Bossk, The Mire should definitely be described as one of Brighton’s best progressive post-metal bands. They released their EP Volume II on EyeForSound Records in 2010, and is a must-have for all you heavier music lovers.

Beginning with the beautifully atmospheric piano of The Nobleman, we are taken through a journey where every song leads perfectly on from one another, although each is notably different.  From heavy second track Shadows, to the mournful awakening of Curse Variations, number five on the EP, The Mire prove that they aren’t all about double pedals and voice-wrecking vocals.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhjhEEvDh6c

£4.99 from itunes.

Jaime Regan- Winterborn

(Written for VivaLewes, Nov 17)

After exercising his love of touring for nearly ten years, and releasing his debut album “True North” in 2009, Brighton-boy Jamie Regan has brought out his second album, Winterborn. Full of mournfully intimate songs about childhood and long-ago memories, Regan takes us into the deep, haunting world of a singer-songwriter. I particularly like The Last Words You Wrote, which is the first song on the CD- a dark, atmospheric start to the album, which gives a brilliant insight into the rest of his work.

Instrumental contributors include Jools Owen and Robin Coward, whose use of percussion and subtle piano playing help add towards the delicate, ambient, folk-like feel of his songs. Regan is currently making the video for the first track House Keys and rehearsing with his band for the Winterborn launch shows coming up in the next few months.

The Badje- Taste Music with Your Ear Tongue

Psychedelic, 60s pop and 50s Rock ‘n’ roll- it’s all here in The Badje’s unusually named second album “Taste Music with Your Ear Tongue.” Only one month after forming in 2009, Brighton’s indie four-piece brought out their debut album “Ride Out” and unleashed themselves on to the Brighton music scene.

With influences from The Beatles, and The Pretty Things, “Taste Music with Your Ear Tongue” is a beautifully produced, fourteen-track CD rich with comical skits, clever guitar work and quirky vocals- a treat for anybody’s ears.

The Badje aren’t your normal indie band, full of teenage angst and power chords- the use of brass instruments, soulful backing singers and sound effects make each song distinctively different from the last. In the fifth track “Travel Suite” we meet ladyman Te te Divine, a cabaret singer mourning about her long lost sailor boy- written from personal experience?

Whether you’re local to Brighton or not, these guys are definitely worth a listen, and maybe we should all try tasting music with our ear tongue.

 

The Badje+Flash Bang Bang+Jackson and The King Kickers at The Brunswick!

This was only the second time I’d been to The Brunswick to attend a gig, so I certainty had high expectations and of course, I wasn’t disappointed.

The beginning of the night kept to a minimal audience, giving the laid-back feel you expect from a tiny venue- although, such a small crowd was in no way a reflection of first band up, The Badje. It was certainty a promising start, when the lead guitarist did his bit for band-promotion and handed out their free album, ‘Taste Music With Your Ear Tongue,’ which I now know I would happily pay for.

 

The Badje- plus a few one-night-only members- jumped up on stage, turned up their amps and were away with their unique take on 50s rock ‘n’ roll, psychedelic rock and general up beat indie. Noticeably attracting more and more pub-goers out from their hiding places and into the gig room- good job!

Next up were self-proclaimed experimental rock band, Flash Bang Band who are becoming increasingly popular due to their ‘DIY ethics’ and promotional stunts- such as their sold out gig on a moving double decker bus. Despite the drummer’s enthusiasm causing problems with his kick pedal, the guys really made for an entertaining watch. Their sweet sense of humour and obvious love for performing really made the audience grow to their personalities, making them a definite must-see.  

I’d never heard of any of the night’s bands before, and was pleasantly surprised, and intrigued when I observed the last band Jackson and the King Kickers taking over the stage with their brass instruments and strings- with eight of them on board, it was either going to be spectacular…or an absolute tragedy.

Jackson hit it off with a mix of swing, rock-a-billy and soul- along with the perfectly timed rhythm section, beautiful vocals and incredible musicianship; it really was a treat to the ears.  This band really knows how to make music that gets you moving, and so understandably by the end of the night almost the whole venue was up on their feet and dancing away (whether it was drunken or not) ending a night that was truly… spectacular.

 

Gig Review- Run Young Lovers+ General Fiasco+Little Comets

Another packed gig at the Concorde 2 last night in Brighton, kicking off with Run Young Lovers, a typical four-piece indie band from Brighton- not very well known yet, but the enthusiasm and energy that went into each song makes them definate ones to watch!

Next up were Irish lads, General Fiasco; a unique voice and positive interaction with the crowd was always going to be a winner, which at one point  provoked  a very chilled out, indie style mosh pit that bought some of the bouncers out from their doorways.

Last, but certainty not least, were Little Comets- the boys that are said to play “Kitchen sink indie” music. They had a much more laid-back approach to their audience, clearly at ease which caused them to get lost in their music, not letting any old screaming gig-goer ruin their flow.

As always, Concorde 2 delivered a great night. The only downside being that if you wanted to get away from the  annoying amount of hyper-active teens at the front, squealing at every little movement on stage, then you had to stand at the back where you couldn’t see a darn thing… but at least you’re closer to the bar!

Rating- 7/10

Album Review: “A+E”- Graham Coxon

It’s a far cry from the early days of “Parklife” and Oasis-related rifts, but Graham Coxon’s latest album “A+E” is set to be a winner.

Beginning his solo career in 1998, blur’s lead guitarist and occasical lyricist made a concious decision to move away from his former brit-pop roots, and into a musical world of his own.  Listening to the changes that he goes through each of his albums is fascinating; from American punk to experimental rock, Coxon has guaranteed that you will not get bored. One of my particular favourites is “The Golden D,” the explosive second album that had him turning up his amp and suddenly going electric.

But, eight albums after his first- “The Sky is Too High”- he’s back with an incredible ten-track release “A+E.” Unlike previous albums where he recorded all the instruments himself, he’s left room for other musicians to play with remarkable results; drum machines, distorted guitars and saxophones- Coxon has not failed to please. The faint use of krautrock influences is present on the third track “What’ll it take,” leaving a good sense of variety to the listener’s ears.

However, he hasn’t strayed too far from the past; there is still a definite “Landan”-cockney feel that seeps through all his songs, reminding us of that brit-pop era that made him famous.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNTjHbwIZeE

Black Market Karma- Easy Listening – FREE DOWNLOAD

The 1960s ethos seems to be rising again, as shown by Black Market Karma, an established, self-proclaimed psychedelic 5-piece from London who have released their third Album “Easy Listening,” on Flower Power Records.

Forming on the mean streets of London; the boys drew their influences from bands such as The Velvet Underground, Nirvana and My Bloody Valentine. The first track “Jingle” sets a smooth introduction to the rest of the album. The consistently, distinctive guitar playing draws you into a rocky, yet spacey atmosphere – a perfect insight into the band’s sound.   Although they are generally a loud, guitar-heavy group- their funky bass lines and long drawn-out, almost trippy vocals blend together to make a very relaxing “easy listen.”

I urge, as ever, for you to take a listen. And, as Flower Power Records are giving away free downloads of several albums, why not pop on over and get yourself some free (legal) music!

http://www.flowerpowerrecords.com/Free-Downloads%282600876%29.htm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Pwnuk5YVGI