With the static-y alchemy of Ariel Pink, the pop theatrics of ELO, and the quietly compelling attitude of a teenager on the bus, Gross Magic’s ‘We’re Awake Tonight’ is fuzzy infectious brilliance.
July, 2011
TLOBF Introducing // Theme Park
London’s Theme Park aren’t a band to be downhearted by a regularly-muttered comparison. Their first track ‘Milk’ brought forth mentions of Talking Heads but a forthcoming double A-side single shows there’s far more to this four-piece than the debut offering.
Copenhagen Jazz Festival – Copenhagen, Denmark 1-10 July 2011
A wonderfully engaging and progressive festival in Scandinavia’s greatest (and most fun) city. Chris Beanland reviews.
Congotronics Vs Rockers – Barbican Centre, London 12/07/2011
In this battle between Western and Congolese conceptions of modern music then the victor is abundantly clear, writes Adam Elmadhi
Klaus – Cypher // Song Of The Day #294
‘Cypher’ is taken from Klaus’ pensive, autumnal ‘Tusk’ EP, forthcoming on R&S. It’s not cheerful, but it is beautiful – and it’s today’s Song Of The Day.
Best of British: TLOBF choose their ‘alternative Mercury’ Album Of The Year – Pt. 1
It’s been a busy year for the UK music scene, with big releases appearing from household names as well as successes for new, lesser known artists. As the Mercury nominations are about to be announced, TLOBF presents our own shortlist of the best of British albums from the past year.
Watch: Hourglass Sea – L.A. Lights
Though it’s be hard to see what influence California may have had on the sonic direction, perhaps the accompanying video has been set in a post-apocalyptic vision of the region, brought together by perhaps the most heartfelt performance by a murderous child you will see this year.
Who said nice guys finish last? The Line Of Best Fit meets The Avett Brothers
The Avett Brothers don’t conform to the rock ‘n’ roll stereotype. Neither do they care. Finbarr Bermingham spent half an hour chewing the fat with them to find four of the nicest guys in the business. Who said they always finish last?
Vandaveer – Dig Down Deep
A delicate collection of artfully crafted Americana that pulses with an honesty and elegance that ultimately makes these songs memorable while also sounding distinctly timeworn and familiar.
Little Dragon – Ritual Union
With songs that tell of a melancholy we may not be used to hearing from Little Dragon, Ritual Union shows a move towards more mournful, instrument-orientated pop. Just don’t mention the whistle.
Japanese Voyeurs – Yolk
A mixed bag from this much lauded bunch of London grunge revivalists. But have they done enough in debut album Yolk to win the sceptical John Skibeat over?
Liam Finn – FOMO
FOMO is dynamic, brash and brimful with bravado: a hook-heavy one man show. It also might just be the album that allows Liam to sidestep father Neil’s not inconsiderable shadow…
Photos: The Radio Dept. – Seaport Music Festival, NYC 15/07/11
The Radio Dept. returned to the States this week to play a handful of shows. Lighting up the Manhattan skyline last night the Swedish trio played a free show at the South Street seaport.
Ghostpoet releases new single in support of UK tour
The rising star of British hip-hop announces final single from debut LP and embarks on massive UK tour.
Morrissey sets 2012 date for autobiography, expect controversy a-plenty
On the back of searching fans for meat and calling Michael Bublé “pointless”, Morrissey announces his forthcoming autobiography. Exciting.
John Cale announces new five-track EP
Wales’ favourite maverick son set to release new EP on Domino imprint, sample track available to stream within.
