H O Z I E R

Resembling a contemporary Jesus, with the angelic vocals to match, an artist that I have really been indulging in at the minute goes by the name Hozier.
The Irish singer/songwriter released his debut EP, Take Me to Church, earlier this year- after choosing to drop out of his music degree in Dublin years previously. His hit single, sharing the same name as his EP, seemed to astonish the world, quickly soaring in the charts.

So, if you hadn't heard of Hozier's enchanting lyrics, beautiful melodies and vocals previously, then maybe you'll of heard about his statement music video for his debut single?


Whilst Hozier claims that the song itself is about his first true romance, where he worshipped his girlfriend and being with her was almost like being a religion, where he was completely intoxicated with her, his music video gives off a different impression.
The video tells the tale of two, gay lovers who not only wish to protect eachother, from menaces (with thug like exteriors) following them, but also a box bound in chains...which we never see the content of. 

The video gives this song a completely new context. After seeing the video it's hard to ignore the suggestions in the song that religion is the cause of much prejudice, especially to homosexuals. All you have to do is take a look at the lyrics to see these undertones that I'm bringing light to; 'everybody's disapproval', 'every Sunday's getting more bleak', 'fresh poison each week', 'we were born sick, we heard them say it' and even lines such as, 'There is no sweeter innocence than our gentle sin'.

So, maybe, Hozier isn't just a musical saint, but also a contemporary revolutionist? 

J O H N  W A U G H I N T E R V I E W

In the depths of Manchester, this September, I had the chance to have an exclusive little chat with the very talented, John Waugh. Not only has this guy jetted across the world, playing saxophone in one of the best bands of the decade, The 1975, but he's also doing some pretty exciting stuff in his own band (The New Standard) and tells us how to get drunk The 1975-style!                      ************************

What made you want to play the saxophone as appose to another instrument?
I actually started playing the piano first. Then there was a really close family friend of mine, George, when he started to notice I was taking a real liking to music he started showing me some really cool bands, like Steely Dan and saxophone players, like Michael Brecker.

So they’re big inspirations to you?
Yeah. So naturally I quite liked how it (the saxophone) sounds and how it looked and everything. George was very influential and showed me the right type of stuff to get me really into it.

Since picking up the saxophone did you decide that that was the instrument for you, then?
Yeah, definitely. I mean, I was so young when I chose to play, my reasons for choosing it was based on the fact that I thought it looked and sounded really cool. (laughs) That was kind of really it, to start with, and then when I began to properly play it I grew into it a lot more.

It's a renowned cool instrument, you’ve done yourself well! (laughs)
You’re currently touring with The 1975, how’re you finding that?
Oh yeah, really good, it’s great.

How was it you actually got involved with them?
I’d known Matty for a long time and there are members of our crew that I went to school with and I’ve got really close friends that have been involved in the band, working around them as they kinda blew up. Then I met the other guys whilst we were recording the album and then earlier this year I started touring with them. But, it’s mainly through a guy named James Booth, who’s a photographer, who has filmed and done photography on the tour...

Yeah,James Booth is really really good at what he does.
He’s amazing. I grew up just along the road from him, so he was kinda the gateway to them, I guess.

That’s brilliant! Looking at The 1975’s debut album, that’s just gone platinum, which is really cool, can I ask how it came about with composing your solos and your work on tracks, such as Heart Out and Pressure? Did you write them, or where they written for you to play?
With Heart Out that’s a bit different, because it’s essentially the hook of the chorus, so Matty was very clear on what he wanted me to play. But with Pressure that was a lot more open, we did about four or five takes and then the guys all pieced that together whilst I was away…Now, with Me, I did that in my friend’s bedroom in Huddersfield and I think that was about January. So that was quite a while after I’d done the recording session for the album. That was quite cool, it was nice to have another person believe in it and be able to put all the recordings together.

It must be nice to work with your friends on such an amazing, creative project like this.
Absolutely, yeah, it’s great. I think it works a lot better aswell…you know if you’re working well with your really close friends, who are absolutely amazing at what they do.

When you started touring with The 1975, there was already quite a large fanbase. How was it to be projected out to an already large fanbase, on the tour?
I do kinda feel like I’ve done my own rite of passage, cause I’ve been playing in lots of bands as I’ve grown up. Obviously, to play with The 1975, though, it is so different to playing with my other bands. Overall, I do feel very secure with where I am now though, because of the time I've spent with my other bands.

So you should!
But I’m still very…I don’t know if it’s nervous, but I was very aware that I was going into a band that already had a very big gathering and reputation. They’d already had a lot of exposure. No, I would say I was a little bit nervous then actually (laughs) I just didn’t know how people would take to me being on stage with them, but it was really good, the more I did it the more that I realised that I had nothing to worry about. Everyone was really cool. Also, it’s mainly about the guys and I’m more a side line to it. As much as I do have my responsibility and role in the band, I can walk away from it feeling like I've made an accomplishment but I can relax. It is their band.

You’ve been across the world with these guys, which was your favourite city?
Oh, I loved San Francisco. It’s so full of history, like this place we went, every crawl space was just full of history and memorabilia…it was amazing. But anywhere in the States is really fun. We went to Japan though too, that was really crazy.

I saw that, it looked mental.
Yeah, it was good. I loved Australia aswell, Splendour in The Grass. We met and made friends there, it was cool. It is hard to say all round though.


You have been to so many places, it’s impressive…in the UK though, which was your favourite festival to play?
Glastonbury. Hands down, Glastonbuty. I’d gone to Leeds festival a couple of times before but…

Ofcourse, it’s a rite of passage!
It is! (laughs) I’d played smaller festivals before, ones that aren’t so big over here. But Glastonbury was my first major festival. Being on the main stage, wow, I don’t know, there was nothing like it. I think it’s probably the best festival in the world.

Was it at all overwhelming standing out there in front of thousands of people who worship what you’re doing?
I had to have a word with myself beforehand (laughs) but the anticipation of going on stage is so much worse than being out there. Once I’ve done the first note, I’m fine. It was amazing to see that many people out there though…like 60,000 people?

60,000.
Crazy, overall, so good though.

Would you say you get into a zone or are you overly aware?
I would say at first, like at Glastonbury, I was so aware. But now, you just get used to it...maybe, well no, you're never just used to it. But, I kind of get in bubble. But with Glastonbury was incomparable to another other gigs, it was surreal and crazy reality.

It's not just about The 1975 for you though, you’re also part of other bands, such as The New Standard, how do you find managing your time?
The 1975 are busy a lot, so I guess my other projects are dictated by how much time I’m spending touring with them. But I did have three weeks at home in Newcastle…during that time, I was doing other stuff. With The 1975, it’s a completely different world, whilst with The New Standard it’s much smaller. Just a band that some of my Newcastle friend’s put together, but it’s a really really good band though. I am really proud of The New Standard.

You played a gig the other week, that had a good reception!
Yeah, we did play that smaller gig and it went really well. It was really nice that a few The 1975 fans came down aswell, it really means a lot to us, I'm very thankful, even as a really small band there is a tiny bit of a crossover. 

So who are the New Standard?
Well the full name of the band is actually Stuart Davies and the New Standard. Stuart is a good friend of mine, it was his idea to set it up.I just kinda forced my way in really (laughs) I was like 'wow, that sounds really cool, I'd love to be a part of it'. He sings and plays guitar, there is a drummer called David. He's an amazing drummer from the North East, we have a talented bassist called, Ian... His nickname is Dodge, I never call him Ian (laughs). I knew him from another band I used to play in called Nick Pride and The Pimptones (laughs), wow, they were a really good funk and soul band. Then an amazing jazz pianist, Paul and Liam, with organ fender sounds..it's cool.

What can we expect from you?
The New Standard?
Yeah, gigs?
Hopefully so! It won't be until about the end of December-ish...I'd love to release an EP and have a little UK tour. I'd love that.

I think you'd get a lot of support.
Hopefully, the other night was definitely an eye opener to the fact that having the right people in the crowd is really helpful.

What advice would you give anyone wanting to start their own band?
I think it's good if you can really take your time with a band. Obviously, depending on your circumstances, if you have a family it might be hard, with responsibility... but if you're really young then I'd say allow 10-15 years to properly develop. Does that sound extreme? (laughs)

Well, you're not going to become a rockstar over night.
Exactly! I think maybe there are too many quick fixes these days, with TV game shows, like The X Factor...all be it, it's a success, but that's more a TV show. Good entertainment but I think it's so far removed from what being in band.

It takes away the magic.
Yeah, so I reckon, just don't take too many shortcuts and enjoy what you're doing. The only reason you should be playing in a band is because you love playing in a band, if you're in a band to become famous...well you're a bit of an idiot. I think there are so many ugly connotations attached to 'fame', but being successful that's brilliant. Even if you're not famous and you enjoy being in a band then you'll still feel a satisfaction...and that's what matters.

FAN SUBMITTED QUESTIONS:
CHANE // HONG KONG: HOW IS PERFORMING WITH THE 1975 DIFFERENT TO PERFORMING WITH THE NEW STANDARD AND EXTRA CURRICULAR? 
Mainly, I'd say exposure. The places we play, like from 10,000 to a little bar. I can be in a different country everyday, it's crazy. The fundamentals of playing together are kinda the same, I guess.

GEORGE: ARE THERE ANY NEGATIVES TO NEW FOUND FAME?
I wouldn't really consider myself to have 'fame', as such. It depends on how you look at it, it's so flattering to have even a handful of fans recognize me. But, obviously it's off the back of something already very successful, so it's hard to regard it as my own success. I won't turn my back on it, but I'm enjoying myself. Even if it's a bit overwhelming and taking some getting used to.



EMILY: HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR SPARE TIME?
I really like sleeping and eating...food...yeah, food? I really don't do much(laughs) And chilling out, listening to music!
Music is like food to me...as crazy as that sounds (laughs). I listen to a lot saxophonists, but then other bands...and I really love Paolo Nutini's new album.

It's so jazzy, it's brilliant.
So good, and we met him a few times at festivals and stuff. What a guy! He's so lovely and genuinely humble, I love the guy (laughs).
(Check out his recommendations)

WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURTIE ALCOHOLIC DRINK?
I'd say beer, I do like to drink when I'm out. We've had this thing recently, cause I really don't like tequila, but we have a shot of that and then chase it with a shot of pineapple juice. It's weird, cause it kinda neutralizes it...you're still aware you've had a shot, but it's surprising how much it works (laughs)
(at this point I am sad due to the fact my drink is tequila)

ABBY // TENNESSEE: DO YOU HAVE ANY PRE-SHOW RITUALS?
Not really, I just try and get calm, practice, hang out I suppose...but no, I guess not (laughs)It was lovely to speak to the very talented, humble John Waugh, please check out his stuff and keep tuned for the video linked to this which will come out in the following days!
Thankyou for reading!

T H E B A L C O N Y  R E V I E W

You discover a band like this once, or maybe twice, every generation. They're one of those bands that come along and impact your life just when you need them. Each of their songs just speaks to you, to the point that you can lose yourself in their music completely.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you my band of the generation, Catfish and The Bottlemen, with their highly anticipated,debut album, The Balcony.




HOMESICK - To open the album, we start coincidentally with the first song that I ever heard from these lads. We begin with a soft start, a steady tempo and Van's gorgeous, raspy vocals. This tune, about Van's long distance relationship struggles, is the perfect mix of everything you look for in a good song. We have amazing technique from Billy Bibby and Benji Blakeway, pure talent on percussion from Bob Hall and phenomenal lyrics executed beautifully by Van McCann.

KATHLEEN - It's arguable that this is the song which really kickstarted it for Catfish and The Bottlemen. When Radio One added it to the playlist, 'Catfish and The Bottlemen' were on everyone's lips and Kathleen's everywhere were being told they're 'simpatico' on a daily basis. All with good merit though! This song could easily be described as sexy, as we mix together the drums and the vocals to create a perfect harmony.
COCOON - Cocoon is a prime example of the versatility of this band. Cocoon and Kathleen are almost a juxtaposition of eachother. It gives the album a kick right in the middle, so you go from dancing about to feeling like you need to tell someone that you love them. A key theme in this album seems to be pursuing love, against all the odds, and it shows in this song. 'Fuck it if they talk, fuck it if they try and get to us' is a particularly prominent lyric in this song- when hearing it played at Leeds fest you could  see how much this song is cherished in today's society. It's a true love song, but one that you can enjoy without feeling that you need a bucket and a box of tissues at hand.

FALLOUT - We then move onto another single, Fallout. This opening of Fallout is much slower than most Catfish and The Bottlemen songs, but this only highlights the beautiful crescendo when drums meets affetto vocals. I'm a big fan of Fallout, it's a belter and half and when you've stood in a crowd and heard hundreds of people singing this and dancing manically, then you'd understand me when I say that this song is one of the most powerful on the album.
PACIFIER - ...'she deffo didn't like that no' is a lyric that I must sing to myself on a daily basis. You know why? Because once you've heard this song once, it will never stop playing in your head. Pacifier has become part of the soundtrack of my life, and I love it! This song has an almost 'The Kooks' feel to it, which doesn't go a miss in the centre of the album. The album version is quite different to the version  I'd heard on EPs, the guitar feels more electric and when the music reaches a climax it's much more distinctive. After, Fallout, the lyrics of Pacifier seem so much more relevant and for some will be much more relatable than say, Cocoon or Business.
HOURGLASS - this song is the most definitely the one on the album that stands out to me and a welcome breathe of  fresh air, it isn't really like anything I've ever heard from the lads. We start off with a little sigh and spoken from the gorgeous (new drinking game: one shot everytime I describe Van McCann as gorgeous, guaranteed results) Van McCann, then some acoustic gutair. However, we have typical, sexy lyrics, with almost a humourous, yet utterly adorable, twist. We get 'I struggle at night with dreams of fucking you all the time'  and 'I wanna call them stupid shit' paired with, 'I wanna bring you home myself'. The vocals in this chorus are harmonized beautifully, which really reminds me Radical Face's, Welcome Home...is there anything this band can't do?
BUSINESS - Business is really relatable song, particularly if you've ever been in one of those situations where you just crave someone's presence- despite all their flaws, because to you all they aren't flaws at all. Billy Bibby's skills really shine through on this song, going to show how well the dynamics of this band work together. Anywhere else on The Balcony, so the placing of this song is perfect.

26 - Another new song on the album is this one! I'm a big fan of the opening of this song, I can see it being a house party favourite/one of those 'dance-around-your-bedroom-in-your-underwear songs. Again, this is a very drum prominent song, which deals with growing up with a relationship that still seems quite immature. Hence, the title, 26. I'm a big, big fan. 

RANGO - unlike, Pacifier and Tyrants I don't think that Rango has changed much for The Balcony. We're still given The Wombats' (dare I say it?!) backing vocals in contrast with heavy drums from the very, talented Bob Hall. Rango will always remain a favourite!
I'm actually surprised that it hasn't had more attention already!
SIDEWINDER - I'm so so happy that this belter made it on the album, instrumentally it's much more heavy. We are given a beautiful hooks by Billy and Benj and gorgeous lyrics from Van McCann, who's vocals seem more polished in this version
. 'I want to endorse you, I want you to exhaust' is what I would have tattooed on my soul...if that was a thing...which it isn't...but do you see what I mean?
TYRANTS - this song remains my favourite song ever, it's much different to the version that I'm used to. However, this version is much softer and more delicate, especially to begin with- but man, oh man, it works. It makes the lyrics seem more prominent and when we reach the crescendo, after 'let's hit the ground' you really yourself becoming absorbed by the power that this song gives. It's a brilliant way to end a brilliant album.

Star Rating: *****

L E E D S  F E S T I V A L


Now I've more or less got over the main bulk of my post-festival blues I feel like it's time to share my Leeds Fest experience!
After the first announcement was made for Leeds 2014, I bagged myself tickets. There have been many mixed emotions about the lineup this year; however, personally, most of my boxes were ticked! Overall, Leeds Fest was a brilliant, new experience with some amazing people, I loved it!

(This post will include my reviews on live acts and my general thoughts on the festival itself)

WEDNESDAY: My friends and I got the early-bird ticket, which meant that we showed up on the Wednesday to set up as apposed to the Thursday!
During this day there wasn't much to really do, except make friends, drink £1 soup from the Oxfam Tent, buy a fur coat, explore and then venture to the Relentless Stage & Piccadilly Party. Both of which were so fun and crazy- I definitely recommend camping in Orange or Red if you want to spend your nights partying here! (But, be warned, if you want to sleep then don't! Unless you find 'Leeds, u wot u wot' ,being chanted, soothing)

THURSDAY: This was the day when most people were showing up, thus there was a bit more to do! To start with THE MIDNIGHT BEAST opened Leeds Fest 2014 with a great live show! I'd seen them before in a much smaller venue, so to see them pack the Alt Tent was crazy! The live performance was good, they had everyone dancing and the performance was pretty lively. They really set the tone for the rest of the weekend!
We then spend our night flitting between the Relentless Stage and the Silent Disco, which was possibly my favourite night time activity.
A Silent Disco is a really weird concept to get your head around, but it was so much fun. A tent packed with people all listening to different songs through headphones, but still managing to somehow be in-synch was brilliant. 

FRIDAY: This was the day I was highly anticipating and it was possibly my favourite day at Leeds!
I kicked the day off by seeing my darlings THE NEIGHBOURHOOD an immaculate live performance at the NME Stage! My only concern was that I believe they could've done with a later time slot, as they are somewhat dark and at 1pm, some people weren't ready/too hungover to appreciate slower songs. However, Jesse worked hard to mould the crowd and work with the hungover lot. Top crowd pleasers were Sweater Weather and Let It Go.
Next up I ended up queuing for an hour and a half to meet my favourites, The 1975! They were lovely lads, as always. Highlights of that experience was getting to have a proper chat with Ross, Hann complimenting my girl Emily's portraits, Matty remembering me (Alright Eleanor babe? How's it going, darling?) and getting a signed hipsflask in the end!
As I was meeting them THE KOOKS began their set! We ran to catch the end of The Kooks, who were just breaking into She Moves in Her Own Way. Seeing The Kooks live, finally, was not a disappointment. They were simply amazing and I was so happy to be a part of the crowd!

After The Kooks, it was time for Rum and Coke! As we were off (spending £22 on 3 R&Cs!) we caught the beginning of MACKLEMORE AND RYAN LEWIS' set on the main stage. They opened with Thrift Shop, which got the crowd going. However, the vocals seemed to be lost under the heavy bass and some of the notes weren't quite reached...
After Macklemore, it was time to see THE 1975 for real. Crammed into the middle of the bustling NME tent, Matty Healy danced onto stage, armed with his wine bottle and obligatory stage presence. From the first note of The City, to the last note in Sex the crowd buzzed. It was a brilliant live performance and it surprised me how many members of the audience knew every word to every song. It really shows that this band have had a huge influence, which is only continuing to spread. I can see them at the main stage in years to come!
Next up were the ridiculously cool twosome, DISCLOSURE! On atmosphere alone, Disclosure were the best act of Leeds Fest 2014. I've never been more exhausted upon leaving a tent than I was during this act, due to the amount of dancing. 'You're the best audience we've had all year Leeds!' 'When A Fire Starts To Burn' was the most impressive song I heard the two guys perform, I was in awe at their ability.

SATURDAY:  We had a disaster, involving 2nd degree burns, at our camp on Saturday morning, so sadly, I didn't get around to seeing any bands till tea time!
My first band of the day was CATFISH AND THE BOTTLEMEN. Ladies and Gentlemen, my favourite act of the entire festival! It's not often that you stand in a crows and think, 'I'm at a gig that is going to one day go down in history' or 'One day I can say, I saw *said band* live in a tent as big as your garden, and now they're playing stadiums'. That day was an exception.
The setlist was perfect for the festival and to say that they were on the BBC Introducing Stage last year and they packed the Festival Republic Stage this year goes to show how successful they've become over only a year. The band of seven years worked the crowd so well. I even got to hear my all time favourite song, Tyrants, from my best friends shoulder and nab an exclusive CaTB beachball (Cheers, Larry!) Van McCann looked like a vision, all in black, on stage and Benji Blakeway's bass skills were extraordinary! A highlight, for me, was Van bursting into 'Iiiif you want my boody and youu think I'm seeexxy' before going into their hit single, Kathleen. I've said it once before, and I'll say it again. Catfish and The Bottlemen are going to one day be as big as The Stone Roses.

After that, now with a dreadful henna tattoo on my arm and a half defalted Catfish and The Bottlemen beachball (LITERALLY) under my belt, I was in the Festival Republic stage for the quirky KING CHARLES! Their up-beat songs really lifted the crowd and it was great to see them in their element! I especially enjoyed Lovelust.
Running through the rain, we made it to SBTRKT! Hmmm, I was really looking forward to seeing these guys, as they're my best friend's favourite band, but dare I say they were...disappointing? There we go. A lot of the crowd left in sporadic bursts as the set failed to ever pick up. There was nothing particularly awful about the set, I just think it was at the wrong time of day. They were definitely a band who'd have thrived at around 10pm.
From SBTRKT we ran through the heavy rain to make it to QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE. It was there, at the main stage, that I saw not only one of the biggest rock bands in the world, but also the most astonishing drum solos of my life. Hats off to Jon Theodore!
With time to get a drink and some over-priced noodles we mooched over to see THE COURTEENERS at the NME Tent. These guys could've easily done the main stage this year, I was in absolute awe. I showed up pretty late (blame portaloo ques) but after being back in the crowd for one minute, you could feel the spark. The crowd was electric and Liam's vocals never faulted. He had everyone in the crowd in the palm of his hand, including me. It was especially spectacular when they began Not Nineteen Forever with Tomorrow // James. I was close to tears, it went off in that tent! 


SUNDAY: On this day we had more friends coming up to see Arctic Monkeys, so I got a chance to show them around and look more at the attractions of Leeds Fest than just see bands...although this result in me missing Bombay Bicycle Club (who apparently absolutely smashed it!)
The band's name that was on everyone's lips for the entire weekend. ROYAL BLOOD. I cannot even explain how big the gathering was for this band. Fans spread out of the tent all the way around the rides, and then to the BBC Introducing Stage. They were crazy. It was weird seeing a band with two members, but the stage didn't really seem empty. The atmosphere they created together filled it. As expected, Out of The Black and Little Monster were exceptional.
I was so so so excited to PEACE and these boys didn't let me down. From the slow Float Forever and the funky World Pleasure I was so happy to be a part of this performance. Clad in vintage fur coats, the band were just as flawless live as they are on any studio recording. So any rumours of Harrison's live vocals being poor, I can completely obliterate now! I'll 100% be buying tickets for their upcoming tour with Bombay!

THE HIVES...The Hives? The Hives...Okay. So maybe it was a bad day, but I personally found that The Hives were lacking. It was evident that they were putting effort into their music, but something wasn't quite right and they were booed quite a lot. It was crushing to see the band lose their audience at the main stage, but you could see that they were enthusiastic. I believe that they would've been much more comfortable with a smaller tent as they really had the wrong audience.
FOSTER THE PEOPLE were up next on the main stage. Their set seemed really short, but I enjoyed every minute of it. They've always been a favourite of mine and every song was performed just as perfectly as the last.
Now it's time for me to confess...before Leeds I only knew one song by this band. You know, when the world went crazy for Radioactive? They aren't the type of band I'd usually listen to, I'll tell you though, IMAGINE DRAGONS are really good live! The atmosphere in the crowd was exceptional, especially during their cover of Blur's Song 2! I even went home and looked up more of their stuff.
Back at the NME Tent,CHVRCHES began their exceptional set. When listening to their studio recordings I was skeptical of whether or not, vocally, they'd be able to perform the same, live. However, Lauren Mayberry's voice actually gave me shivers. Being on my friend's shoulders for Mother We Share was like a dream, Chvrches made it really easy to feel involved in the music.
At about 9pm most other tents/stages were bare, due to the fact ARCTIC MONKEYS were at the main stage. I was so excited for their set and I was not dissapointed. They opened, as usual, to Do I

Wanna Know? However, I was absolutely delighted to hear two of my favourite AM tunes; My Propeller and 505 live! It is rare they bring out their older songs, due to the constant change in sound. Turner also had the crowd dancing manically and jumping around as he closed R U Mine 3 times before leaving the stage. It must also be said that the constant mentions of Sheffield had the Yorkshire audience ecstatic! Arctic Monkeys were a brilliant way for me to cap off the live performances at Leeds 2014!

C A T F I S H  A N D  T H E  B O T T L E M E N

Ladies and gentlemen, it's finally time for me to express my utter adoration for the band on everybodies lips at the minute, Catfish and The Bottlemen! With their hit singles, Kathleen and Fallout, recently being buzzed by radio stations and their anticipated album to be out later this year, I'll give you a track by track review of their outstanding 2010 EP- The Beautiful Decay.

I discovered these lads at the back-end of last autumn and since then they've been my favourite band, alongside The 1975, Broken Hands and Arctic Monkeys.
So, without further ado:

BODIES - this track kickstarts the EP with a rocky intro- an almost organised chaos of a clash of instruments. However, just before Van Mccann's vocals there is a definite diminuendo. This allows you to be taken away in the vocals, yet the music is still strong enough for you to get that feeling that only occurs in iconic songs, where you utterly are engrossed by the music (can you tell that I love this EP yet?) 'The things I do just to get you out of those clothes, cause they love my floor' and 'please get me away from him, cause he's starting to do my head right in' are lyrics you can almost hear a huge crowd singing in the back of your mind when you listen to this introduction to a gorgeous EP.

COLLIDE- This could arguably be described to have a more 'classic pop' feel to it. Almost like Scouting for Girls but without token accents and the word 'luvverly'. Much like their other songs, the hooks are brilliant and the chorus is very catchy.


HARLOT - This song opens with 'The Wombats'style backing vocals, with a raspy rock twang. The lyrics are witty and this song is a definite crowd pleaser at gigs. 

TYRANTS- OKAY, everybody sit down and listen up, not only is this my favourite song from this EP, or my favourite song by this band, but it is possibly my favourite song ever. Why? Is it the outstanding hooks? The raspy, gorgeous vocals? Or the beautiful yet relatable lyrics? 'Eyes rolled back, guess we were living fast' 'it was so rare to see you sober, so the street lights will carry us home' 'your divine ribs would help break mine, we hit the ground, yeah let's hit the ground'. I don't know, but what I do know is that this song will go down in history. I also know that this song brings out dance moves in you that were previously exclusive to 13-year-old scene kids. You heard it here first...now all I need to do is get this performed acoustically for me...yes? Yes.

TRIPPIN- this instrumental almost comes hand in hand with Tyrants, and is often played straight into the end. I, however, believe that even on it's own it's a favourite Catfish and The Bottlemen track. Why? Well, there is something very comforting in a classic indie-rock instrumental that perfectly frames the musical talent of each member of the band.

I'll have the pleasure of seeing these lads live at both Tramlines Sheffield and Leeds fest this year, so I'll be sure to give them a live review!

s u m m e r  m i x t a p e s

Wasps and fake tan stains are abundant over here in the UK! So you know what that means, right? Summer is getting closer! So, here is a few little mixtapes that will be sure to get you into the summer mood, featuring bands that will be blitzing the festival scene in the upcoming months and tracks which will get you right into the spirit for whatever it is you're doing this summer!

SUMMER #1
KING CITY // SWIM DEEP

BLOODSHAKE // PEACE

LAST NITE // THE STROKES

TECHNO FAN // THE WOMBATS

COME CLOSER // MILES KANE                    

R U MINE? // ARCTIC MONKEYS

FOLLOW BABY // PEACE

LUNA // BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB

IF YOU WANNA // THE VACCINES 

SWEATER WEATHER // THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

WEST COAST // LANA DEL REY

TURN DOWN FOR WHAT // DJ SNAKE & LIL JON

SEX // THE 1975

ROBBERS // THE 1975

CHILLING WITH FRIENDS?
GIRLS // THE 1975

DANCING SONG // LITTLE COMETS

GET UP TONIGHT // HIGH TYDE

SOMETHING GOOD CAN WORK // TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB

AWKWARD // SAN CISCO

IF YOU WANNA // THE VACCINES 

ADDICTED TO THE CURE // THE WOMBATS

TONGUE TIED // GROUPLOVE

SHABBA // ASAP FERG

SHE WAY OUT // THE 1975

BLOODSHAKE // PEACE

WATCHING THE SUNSET ON THE BEACH?

THE 1975 // THE 1975

TEE SHIRT // BIRDY

YOUNG & BEAUTIFUL // LANA DEL REY

FALLOUT // CATFISH AND THE BOTTLEMEN

BUDAPEST // GEORGE EZRA

ALL I WANT // KODALINE

TAKE A FALL FOR ME // JAMES BLAKE

GIVE ME LOVE // ED SHEERAN

WOMAN // THE 1975

ANGELS // THE XX

ROAD TRIP, ANYONE?

THINK ABOUT IT // AMERICAN AUTHORS

FEVER // THE BLACK KEYS

HOW SOON IS NOW // THE SMITHS

WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG // THE KILLERS

TASTE IT // JAKE BUGG

KATHLEEN // CATFISH AND THE BOTTLEMEN

ROBBERS // THE 1975

HEAD.CARS.BENDING // THE 1975

27 // PASSENGER 

PACKING FOR THAT RISQUE HOLIDAY YOUR MUM IS WORRIED ABOUT YOU GOING ON?

SHOT ME DOWN // DAVID GUETTA

MY LOVE // ROUTE 94

THE WIRE // HAIM

HABITS (STAY HIGH) // TOVE LO (REMIX)

TAKE ME HOME // CASH CASH

TURN DOWN FOR WHAT //DJ SNAKE & LIL JON

RATHER BE // CLEAN BANDIT

The 1975 (and support; Wolf Alice and The Neighbourhood)

Recently, I had the pleasure of seeing The 1975 in Sheffield, at the O2 Academy. Let me tell you, with a mixture of the lively support, tears on stage and the undoing and amelioration of my heart, it wasn't a gig to be missed.

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD- I was a fan of this band way before I'd even discovered The 1975. So I was thrilled to finally have the chance to see these beautiful,talented, monochrome-clad Californians live! I may have been one of their few fans when I walked in, but when I walked out I was definitely amongst a vast number more.
The vocal quality of frontman Jesse Rutherford was flawless as he entertained the crowd.
Particular crowd pleasers included Sweater Weather, W.D.Y.W.F.M? and Let it Go. 

WOLF ALICE- accompanying The 1975 on the label Dirty Hit, Wolf Alice were known amongst most of the fans as they entered the venue. I'd not really listened to much of Wolf Alice before this gig. However, I was pleasantly surprised. Although the female vocals seemed to sometimes be lost within the music, the band seemed to be very comfortable on stage and engaged with the audience. Definitely ones to watch.

THE 1975- 
Standing in the crowd, after queing for nearly 9 hours (in the lovely, Yorkshire rain) ,pinned against the barrier I eagerly waited for the four boys to enter on to the stage. The room seemed to almost suddenly be flooded with dry ice. 'The 1975' began to play. Lights flashed and fluttered on the stage and then with the clash of a gutair and the beat of a drum the stage burst into life. 

The setlist of this gig was exquistantly put together- each song seemed to flow into the next without too much of a juxtaposition. Yet, all the corners of The 1975's music was explored- from Sex to fallingforyou to Robbers. The band opened with Matty Healy standing on a speaker, embracing the crowd and exceuting the poppy vocals with 'The City'. Tracks such as Milk, Head.Cars.Bending and So Far it's Alright really got the crowd going, even though these songs are some of their lesser known tracks. 
The track 'Menswear' gave musical genius, Adam Hann, the chance to show off his skills for two minutes before the vocals allowed the song burst into life. 
With track, such as, 'Girls', 'M.O.N.E.Y' and 'Talk!', Matty Healy seemed to fill the room with his enthusiasm. You felt as though his vocals were a catalyst for movement and excitement in the crowd, with every word he uttered and note he belted you could almost literally feelthe atmosphere in the room lifting everybodies spirits. As a frontman, he is a good as you can get. Cooly drinking from a bottle of red wine, spinning around the stage and iconically head banging to the genius being projected by his friends and fellow band members- George Daniel, Ross Macdonald and Adam Hann, aswell as now the newly added saxophone player, John Waugh. On the other hand, he managed to quickly quieten the crowd to almost silence in moving songs, such as Me and Fallingforyou. It was in these songs where you could see the raw emotion being emitted by Healy. He broke down crying at one point and the entire crowd seemed to respect him a musician, some people crying themselves and others closing their eyes and embracing the music.

Jokes were also shared amongst the crowd as Matty shouted, 'Seriously, this place is brimming with girls tonight. If you're a guy and you can't pull here tonight, somethings wrong!'.

My personal favourite song performed was also one of their oldest songs. Robbers. As the vocals, 'NOW EVERYBODY IS DEAD!' were screamed down the microphone I relieved a moment of happiness from the first time I saw them at Winter Wonderland 2013- which just goes to show that although a band may get more successful, they're always fueled by the same passion and driven by the same force. Which means, they will never really change.

Which brings me onto the next part of the review.
Before the gig, I had the honour of meeting The 1975 and I shared a special moment with Matty outside the venue.
Where I also got to hear The 1975 in soundcheck covering Jackson 5's I Want You Back! You can read about that, if you like, here!
(Here's a sample picture, hehehe!)

WHERE HAVE I BEEN?

DUE TO THE FACT THAT SOMEONE DECIDED TO HACK THIS BLOG I'VE DELETED ALL POSTS I'VE UPLOADED SINCE DECEMBER AND I'M IN THE PROCESS OF RE-UPLOADING THEM, SO HERE WE GO!