Read about the latest singles and albums here…
The SAY Award 2020
The SAY (Scottish Album of the Year) award is one of the biggest nights in the Scottish music scene and this year for the first time ever, the ceremony will be broadcasted digitally though a YouTube premier! Join hosts Nicola Meighan and Vic Galloway for a night of celebrating this year’s top 10 shortlisted albumsContinue reading “The SAY Award 2020”
Columbia “Fat Catz” Review
“Fat Catz” encapsulates the amazing raw power that Columbia possesses from their live act and have put it into a short and sweet anthem. “Fat Catz” has everything from powerful raw vocals, pumping drums and a britpop esque guitar hero solo to end, you’ll be hard to find something in the track that doesn’t catchContinue reading “Columbia “Fat Catz” Review”
Single Release – ANDREWBATES ‘My Love.’
The latest release by 20-year old Andrew Bates, is on track to be his best yet. The standard of music the young musician is producing, is so high that it’s hard to believe he only released his first single just under a year ago. The self-taught artist blends pop-dance music with R&B influences, creating hisContinue reading “Single Release – ANDREWBATES ‘My Love.’”
Single Review: Lizzie Reid – Seamless
One word that’s been used regularly to describe Lizzie Reid’s second single ‘Seamless’ is “personal”. However, she’s stumbled upon something much more universal than personal. The follow up to ‘Tribute’ might have been based on any of our stories of love and loss, and it is a tale told so effortlessly and honestly that Reid’sContinue reading “Single Review: Lizzie Reid – Seamless”
Single Review : Johnny Lloyd – Suze
By Chelsea Ness Tribes frontman, Johnny Lloyd has taken a different approach with his latest solo track, ‘Suze’ ahead of his brand new album, ‘Cheap Medication’. Suze provides a peaceful, calming sensation which inevitably leaves listeners feeling a sense of inspiration. Right from the get-go, the sweet wholesome sound of the acoustics blend together blissfullyContinue reading “Single Review : Johnny Lloyd – Suze”
Album Review: The Jaded Hearts Club – You’ve Always Been Here
Supergroup The Jaded Hearts Club have premiered their debut album this month (2nd Oct) and we at The Music Files are totally obsessed. Forming in 2017 by Blur guitarist Jamie Davis, the group originally called ‘Dr Pepper’s Jaded Hearts Club band were created and performed plentiful covers by The Beatles before expanding and covering tracksContinue reading “Album Review: The Jaded Hearts Club – You’ve Always Been Here”
Single Review: The A.V Club – Real Love
Warrington’s very own The A.V Club are back with their newest single ‘Real Love’. After the band released their amazing single ‘Over U’ back in July as part of their groovy new branding that the band are calling ‘Phase Two’ of their exciting journey they have just released their second single of the new phaseContinue reading “Single Review: The A.V Club – Real Love”
Liverpool’s SeaGoth drop’s latest track Dreamworld
If I had to give my band or musical project a super cool name , I feel like SEAGOTH is definitely in the list of the names I would consider…. Sadly though that name is taken by Liverpools own aforementioned Seagoth , the musical project of Georgia Ochoa. Her latest offering ‘Dreamworld’ is a pieceContinue reading “Liverpool’s SeaGoth drop’s latest track Dreamworld”
Single Review: Fake Lips – Rise
by Emily Duff Fake Lips have just dropped their second single, Rise. Made up of two men, Gary and Michael, who brag that they’re the same age with the same interests and in the same town, they met online as adults and formed the duo we now know as Fake Lips. Previously forming the bandContinue reading “Single Review: Fake Lips – Rise”
Single Review: Django Django | Spirals
Django Django are a band I have long been aware of but had never properly listened to – that was of course until now when I was asked to give them a spin and share my thoughts on the London based outfit’s first release in two years and lets just say, they now have myContinue reading “Single Review: Django Django | Spirals”
Single Review: Alex Maxwell – Inaction
Dumfries-based singer-songwriter Alex Maxwell has teamed up with Idlewild’s Rod Jones for his third single Inaction, which was released this week. This indie-folk track would act as the perfect accompaniment to a walk or drive round the Scottish countryside with friends on a summer’s day. In his lyrics, Maxwell gives us some advice on howContinue reading “Single Review: Alex Maxwell – Inaction”
Single Review: Freddie Dickson – Touch Over Distance
With Britain’s lockdown easing and life returning to some kind of semblance of normality, we may not wish to remember our experience of being confined to our homes due to the global Covid-19 pandemic. However, singer-songwriter Freddie Dickson’s new track Touch Over Distance effectively allows us to place ourselves back in time to reflect uponContinue reading “Single Review: Freddie Dickson – Touch Over Distance”
The Roly Mo – TRM EP Review
By Connor Adam The 6 track mini album from The Roly Mo takes us on a tempestuous ride from start to finish. With greased up rock songs like ‘Diamond Doll’ to absolute indie bangers in ‘Control Yourself’ & ‘Count To Ten’. There is an unbelievable energy that transpires through all 6 tracks, it has swagger,Continue reading “The Roly Mo – TRM EP Review”
Behind the Music: Take the Night – Teenage Love
by Myrren Porter Geordie synth duo Take The Night have returned with their new single ‘Teenage Love’ which premiered last month. Showcasing the groups passion for all things synth, the consistent line throughout the track creates an airy sounding aura which is what makes Take The Night one of the most unique groups within theirContinue reading “Behind the Music: Take the Night – Teenage Love”
Single Review: Garlands – Happy
by Myrren Porter Premiering last month, The Music Files are absolutely delighted to review the latest release from Glasgow trio The Garlands. ‘Happy’ which made its first appearance to audiences on 31st July was hot on the heels of previous releases ‘Play Games’ and ‘Where Things Belong.’ It begins with a significant bass line introContinue reading “Single Review: Garlands – Happy”
Single Review: 12 Weeks – Spilt Milk
by Emily Duff Newcastle indie up-and-comers, Spilt Milk are set to release their latest single 12 Weeks. After just releasing the hit, Moving Target, earlier this year, 12 Weeks is a highly anticipated new track. A different vibe for the band, 12 Weeks takes on a slower acoustic sound in contrast to their usual highContinue reading “Single Review: 12 Weeks – Spilt Milk”
Single Review: Paris Street Rebels | Diane
by Ryan McConnell Fife’s finest punk-rock export return in ferocious fashion with their latest single ‘Diane’ and by god its a stormer. Wasting no time at all on this 3 and a half minute assault on the senses the track instantly demands your attention and will have you toe-tapping and head-bopping in equal measure. WithContinue reading “Single Review: Paris Street Rebels | Diane”
Single Review: Red Rum Club – Ballerino
Red Rum Club are a band that are very close to my heart! I’ve not stopped talking about them for the past three years since I first seen them play in Glasgow’s own Garage Attic. Most of you can imagine my excitement when I seen they were releasing their new single ‘Ballerino’ and it’s fairContinue reading “Single Review: Red Rum Club – Ballerino”
Single Review: Plastic Barricades – Tunnel
London and Paris-based alt-rock duo Plastic Barricades ask us to keep in mind the following question whilst listening to their new single Tunnel: Imagine if you could see your worries and anxieties under a microscope? What would they look like? Tunnel is a fast-paced indie-style track that displays clear influence from the likes of SnowContinue reading “Single Review: Plastic Barricades – Tunnel”
Single Review: Luca Wilding – Heartachers
London-based singer/songwriter Luca Wilding released his debut single ‘Heartachers’ on June 12th 2020. The single is from Wilding’s up and coming album that will hopefully be released at the end of this year and If ‘Heartachers’ is anything to go by this is going to be one mesmerising album. ‘Heartachers’ is dominated with the sweetContinue reading “Single Review: Luca Wilding – Heartachers”
SINGLE REVIEW: DICTATOR – DAYS GONE BY
Dictator are back and causing ruckus in your earholes yet again with their belter of a new single, ‘Days Gone By’. The dreamy 4 piece released their new single on the 7th of August, doing an Instagram live half an hour before midnight to countdown the time to the release of the new single –Continue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: DICTATOR – DAYS GONE BY”
EP Review: Laura Murray – Memories
Hailing from Paisley, singer/ songwriter Laura Murray has exploded onto the Glasgow music scene with her debut EP ‘Memories’. Laura has already achieved a massive amount in a short space of time. When Laura was younger, she competed a lot; resulting in top 10 for Open Mic UK 2014, Top 20 Girls finalist on theContinue reading “EP Review: Laura Murray – Memories”
Single Review: Allan Purvis – Moet
By Chelsea Ness Glaswegian singer songwriter, Allan Purvis is without a doubt ‘one to watch’ this year after the successful release of his latest single, ‘Moet’. With it’s breezy feel-good acoustics and dreamy lyrics, it’s the perfect track to play whilst having a few beers with your pals on a nice sunny day. It’s aContinue reading “Single Review: Allan Purvis – Moet”
Single Review: Voodoos ‘TV Set’
By Fiona Henderson Glasgow has seen a surge in successful new talent over the past couple of years and that doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. With a pool of ambitious and talented new artists popping up on the regular, we look into the success of young Glasgow band, Voodoos. Voodoos started 2020Continue reading “Single Review: Voodoos ‘TV Set’”
Single Review: The Asteroid No. 4 – Swiss Mountain Myth
By Orla Brady California-based psychedelic-rock quintet The Asteroid No.4 have released their latest single Swiss Mountain Myth in preparation for the upcoming release of their tenth studio album ‘Northern Songs’. The band have gained a dedicated fan-base and a reputation as trailblazers of modern psychedelic rock over the twenty-two years that they have been creatingContinue reading “Single Review: The Asteroid No. 4 – Swiss Mountain Myth”
Album Review: Seasick Steve – Love and Peace
16 years on from his debut record ‘Cheap‘ comes the 10th studio album from the ever-brilliant enigma that is Seasick Steve. Mystery and wonder ever shrouds the true history behind the stage persona Steve has created for himself, but the one thing that is of no mistake is the mans talent and understanding of whatContinue reading “Album Review: Seasick Steve – Love and Peace”
Single Review: Katie Wood – Uh Huh Yeah
by Emily Duff Katie Wood is a flamboyant new singer from London set on transcending time with her blend of the ‘70s sounds with ‘80s style and modern sarcasm. After releasing her debut single, Steve, earlier this year Katie Wood is set for stardom from the get-go. With a Bowie-esque take to music from herContinue reading “Single Review: Katie Wood – Uh Huh Yeah”
Single Review: The A.V Club – Over U.
By Alice Brown The A.V Club are quickly making waves across the North West of England. Hailing from Warrington the four-piece are already selling out shows in their home town and Liverpool alongside being played several times on Radio X. Following on from their successful debut EP ‘Youthful Illusions’ the band have just released ‘OverContinue reading “Single Review: The A.V Club – Over U.”
Album Review: The Streets – None of Us Are Getting Out of This Life Alive
2020 hasn’t gave us many good things but the return of The Streets is one of the best thing to come from 2020. The Streets have made their comeback with None of Us Are Getting out of This Life Alive. What a title. Nearly a decade since The Streets brought out Computers and Blues inContinue reading “Album Review: The Streets – None of Us Are Getting Out of This Life Alive”
SINGLE REVIEW: 100 Fables – Roadside
Since my ears initially graced them back in 2016, I’ve considered Glasgow outfit 100 Fables to be one of the most valuable assets to the Scottish pop scene, thanks to a mixture of outstanding talent, colourful personality and rocking live shows. But the last year has been majorly hectic, to say the least, spanning fromContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: 100 Fables – Roadside”
Single Review: Sienne – Side By Side.
I’ve been a big fan of Sienne ever since I heard their debut track ‘Where Is Home?’ back in February! There debut track was premiered at the Liverpool vs Manchester United game setting standards high for the band instantly. It absolutely blew me away and I’ve been listening to Sienne ever since as they’ve producedContinue reading “Single Review: Sienne – Side By Side.”
Single Review: Mute The TV – Only The Good Times Matter
Mute The TV is the project of Crampton brothers, Dylan and Elliot, from County Wicklow in Ireland. Although the town of Greystones might not be exactly where your mind wanders in pursuit of a sun soaked break, perhaps the sea air has blown in some summer influences from further afield than the Irish Sea. TheContinue reading “Single Review: Mute The TV – Only The Good Times Matter”
Single Review: Out of the Swim – Through the Floors of a Starry Night (feat. Adam Stafford)
Falkirk/Glasgow four-piece Out of the Swim are gearing up release their upcoming collaborative EP The University of Skinflats. ‘Through the Floors of a Starry Night’ is the launch single and it will be released at the end of this month, alongside the full EP. The track is a collaboration with renowned musician Adam Stafford, andContinue reading “Single Review: Out of the Swim – Through the Floors of a Starry Night (feat. Adam Stafford)”
Single Review: Cat Ryan – Blessed Through the TV
by Emily Duff Blessed Through the TV is Cat Ryan’s second single of 2020. Based in Newcastle, the band already have fans across the UK. Opening with an oriental sound that remains throughout the track, Blessed Through the TV takes on an unusual but very enjoyable spin on their usual indie rock music. Emerging withinContinue reading “Single Review: Cat Ryan – Blessed Through the TV”
SINGLE REVIEW: White Novels – ‘There’s No Happiness’
By Jay Roberts ‘White Novels’ – a new project masterminded by multi-instrumentalist Jack Bestow – have released their poignant and immersive new single ‘There’s No Happiness’. This new hotly anticipated single comes after the band released their debut single ‘On The Bottle’, which attracted some rave reviews at the start of June. ‘There’s No Happiness’Continue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: White Novels – ‘There’s No Happiness’”
Single Review: Mt. Doubt – Dark Slopes Away
Mt. Doubt – one of my favourite bands on the Scottish music scene at the moment – are gearing up to release their third studio album Doubtlands in September of this year. The first single to be released from the album is Dark Slopes Away. The track is available to pre-save on various streaming sites,Continue reading “Single Review: Mt. Doubt – Dark Slopes Away”
Single Review: Psydove – Gimme Some Saké
by Emily Duff Psydove are a duo hailing from Newcastle and producing a blend of stoner and kind-of psychedelic music. Psydove follow on with their latest release of Gimme Some Saké after their debut single Wakey Wakey. Both tracks came out in 2020 and are equally as mellow and relaxing. Made up of Steve ZiolkowskiContinue reading “Single Review: Psydove – Gimme Some Saké”
Single Review: Harina – Hard Worker
On the lookout for a fresh, new female artist who has the ability to combine punchy pop tunes with a helping of power and positivity? Look no further, than the excellent Harina. German-born and London-based, this artist has made quite a splash in the pop scene since her graduation from the BIMM Institute. Her debutContinue reading “Single Review: Harina – Hard Worker”
EP Review: The Recreation – For Tessa, With Affection, April ’76.
I have been a massive fan of The Recreation for just over a year now. On the 3rd July they released a six track EP called “For Tessa, With Affection, April ’76”. The Oldham band have quickly made a name from themselves over the past few years through touring the UK and releasing songs likeContinue reading “EP Review: The Recreation – For Tessa, With Affection, April ’76.”
Single Review: Thumper – Topher Grace
By Connor Adam This band landed in my inbox after a few cans on a Monday night to review and I was blown away – transported into a Friday night. It gave me feels like I was in a dingy venue bobbing along but I was actually in my bedroom with a few cans ofContinue reading “Single Review: Thumper – Topher Grace”
Single Review: Tony Goff and The Broken Colours – Rearrange
By Ryan McConnell Bringing the funk and feel good factor is the brilliant Tony Goff and the Broken Colours with their latest single, Rearrange. The quartet – hailing from High Wycombe – offer up a joyful sounding instrumental filled with catchy guitar hooks, trumpets and a steady beat throughout which all work harmoniously in givingContinue reading “Single Review: Tony Goff and The Broken Colours – Rearrange”
EP Review: Katie O – Chamber
By Orla Brady Singer and musician Catherine O’Halloran, otherwise known by the stage name – Katie O, released her debut EP Chamber, last month. Prior to creating the Katie O persona, O’Halloran developed an impressive musical career. Her vocals have featured on the soundtrack to several Hollywood films, including the 2007 Oscar winning film ‘TheContinue reading “EP Review: Katie O – Chamber”
Single Review: Jack Gill – Our Time.
Scouse musician Jack Gill bounced onto the Liverpool music scene back in January when he released his debut track ‘One Day’, after a run on releases he has just released his new track ‘Our Time’. Jack has played legendary Liverpool venues including; The Zanzibar, Phase One and Studio 2 alongside some popular Liverpool acts. ‘OurContinue reading “Single Review: Jack Gill – Our Time.”
EP Review: Seafern – Subsidence
By Orla Brady Glasgow-based duo Felix Slavin and Jen O’Brien, otherwise known as Seafern, released their debut single The Seed Beneath the Snow back in April 2019. The track made Scotland’s tune of the week on Indie Rocks radio and was even included in the trailer for ‘The Sequel: What Will Follow Our Troubled Civilisation?’Continue reading “EP Review: Seafern – Subsidence”
Single Review: Phoebe Marshall – If You Begged For Me, Would I Have Stayed?
Leeds based indie-pop artist, Phoebe Marshall, leans into her pop sensibilities in second single ‘If You For Begged Me, Would I Have Stayed?‘. ‘Don’t Tell Her’, the debut single from Phoebe Marshall, could easily feature at the start of a 2000s indie romance featuring Michael Cera on a soundtrack alongside the likes of The MoldyContinue reading “Single Review: Phoebe Marshall – If You Begged For Me, Would I Have Stayed?”
Single Review: Drift – Lifeline
By Alice Brown Hailing from Paisley, Drift are an electronic duo made up of Linzi Clark and Andrew Quinn. The duo have exploded onto the Scottish scene with previous releases ‘First Place’ and ‘The Isle Of’ alongside playing King Tut’s New Year’s Revolution, Sofar Sounds and gaining recognition from The Skinny, TENEMENT TV and BBCContinue reading “Single Review: Drift – Lifeline”
Single Review: Will and The People – Shame
by Chelsea Ness Brighton’s very own indie rock band, Will and the People have been making waves in the music scene for around ten years now and their latest track, Shame suggests that the four piece won’t be stopping anytime soon (we hope not anyway). The first time I discovered the band was after hearingContinue reading “Single Review: Will and The People – Shame”
“Pebbles”: The NEW SINGLE from Scruffy Bear.
By Amanda Kilfeather. Scruffy Bear are back with another screamer of a single, “Pebbles“. Life in lockdown has proved no chance of hindering these guys’ creativity and determination – they’ve hosted livestream shows from their new Band HQ, collaborated on covers with equally-talented artists, all whilst working away behind the scenes on yet another impressiveContinue reading ““Pebbles”: The NEW SINGLE from Scruffy Bear.”
Single Review: Rachel Jack – Equalise
by Orla Brady Scottish singer-songwriter Rachel Jack has seen a great deal of warranted success come her way recently, which has helped her to claim a spot as an intriguing rising star within the Scottish music scene. Her debut EP The Calgary Tapes, which is due to be released on the 20th of July, wonContinue reading “Single Review: Rachel Jack – Equalise”
Single Review : Beta Waves – I Had You Wrong
by Paola Mancini, July 2nd 2020 Played this song while in the car with my brother and he said he felt like he’d stepped back to an 80s disco. And I think that’s exactly what the segue of this song intended to do. A little nod to Tame Impala with the psychedelic vibes before explodingContinue reading “Single Review : Beta Waves – I Had You Wrong”
Single Review: Docksuns – Dancing On The Radio
By Connor Adam Docksuns, a 5-piece rock and roll band from the north east of England incorporate melodic 60’s guitar, raspy hooky vocal’s and tunes that have loads swagger about them. And latest single “Dancing On The Radio” is no exception. The track is fiery and catchy, it’ll have you singing away the vocal hookContinue reading “Single Review: Docksuns – Dancing On The Radio”
EP Review: The Royston Club – The State I’m In
“EP is a real coming of age soundtrack for British teens and is the sound of a generation.
SINGLE REVIEW: QUICHE – RAT HABITS
By Lauryn Donnelly The psych-rock band Quiche that formed in Glasgow dropped their new glorious single ‘Rat Habits’ on the 29th of May and its easily one of my favourite tunes released this year. The six piece seriously know how to please a set of ears! Sounding like it’s come straight from a 50’s movieContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: QUICHE – RAT HABITS”
An Essay – Kendrick Lamar
By Craig Russell Horne I have wrestled for weeks with this essay. For your context, I began writing this directly after finishing my article on Kanye West. Anyone who understand how I work, I attempt to be as raw as possible. I allow my thoughts and feelings to be presented on a page in realContinue reading “An Essay – Kendrick Lamar”
Album Review – Kevin Daniel Cahill: Dynasties
by Chelsea Ness Scottish contemporary guitarist, Kevin Daniel Cahill has truly exceeded his musical talents with his utterly gripping album, Dynasties. The creativity, skill and raw flair presented vastly throughout the eight track instrumental album. Listeners will inevitably be drawn in at the first instance. If you’ve read any of my previous articles then youContinue reading “Album Review – Kevin Daniel Cahill: Dynasties”
Single Review : Garlands – Where Things Belong
By Paola Mancini The first 14 seconds of this song had me feeling like I had just stepped into an American 90s feel good movie; the likes of “10 Things I Hate About You” or “Clueless”. Probably not the comparison Garlands are dreaming of ideally, but those first 14 seconds made me feel nostalgic aboutContinue reading “Single Review : Garlands – Where Things Belong”
EP Review: Yard Arms – Sanctuary Lines
By Chelsea Ness The EP we’ve all been waiting for is finally here!! Bristol’s very own melancholic duo, Yard Arms are back with their third EP, Sanctuary Lines and I can confirm it’s certainly worth the wait. The band are actually a relatively new discovery for me but as soon as I heard their dreamy,Continue reading “EP Review: Yard Arms – Sanctuary Lines”
Single Review: Post Rome – Want to Believe
By Chelsea Ness Do you know that feeling you get when you listen to a track for the first time and you are instantly hooked?! The excitement of discovering a fresh new sound that will make a great addition to one of the many playlists within your Spotify account and the eagerness of wanting toContinue reading “Single Review: Post Rome – Want to Believe”
Single Review: Carousel – Feeling
After several months of keeping it to themselves, Dundee indie-rock four-piece Carousel have decided that now is the right time to share their new track Feeling with fans. And what a treat it is. Since forming in 2016, Carousel have successfully established themselves as one of the most exciting up and coming acts inContinue reading “Single Review: Carousel – Feeling”
SINGLE REVIEW: CRAIG CARRIGAN – COME WITH ME
By Lauryn Donnelly Craig Carrigan from Johnstone has released his first solo single on the 12th of June and I cannot get enough of it. Recorded in his house during lockdown this tune has a special feel to it. Craig decided to try and learn how to record music during lock-down to keep himself busy,Continue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: CRAIG CARRIGAN – COME WITH ME”
SINGLE REVIEW: LA Mode – ‘Fake News’
By Jay Roberts When this scuzzy rock anthem came tearing through my speakers, I knew what I was hearing was going to be a massive tune. This raucous debut single by Manchester 3-piece LA Mode will be sure to turn heads and grab your attention simply from the wall of noise and the glorious assaultContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: LA Mode – ‘Fake News’”
Red Rum Club – Eleanor Single Review
By Connor Adam Red Rum Club have been winning everyone’s hearts over up and down the country with their astounding live sets and massive sing-a-long choruses, it’s hard to see them slowing down anytime soon. With already some explosive festival sets, sold out shows up and down the country on their headline tours and evenContinue reading “Red Rum Club – Eleanor Single Review”
Single Review: Pizza Daddy – Too Many Boyfriends
by Emily Duff Based in London, Pizza Daddy is a duo made up of Ross Pearce and Mike Stothard. Both previously being part of pop band, BOYS, they have experienced touring around both Europe and America. This means the lads have a lot of experience behind them in terms of audience understanding and working withContinue reading “Single Review: Pizza Daddy – Too Many Boyfriends”
Crimson Bloom – Cut Me Down Review
I know most artists, like myself, can find it quite annoying when they get dubbed sounding of a few notable artists constantly but when you say that Crimson Bloom are swathed in Stone Roses and The Charlatans vibes, you’d be right! They don’t hide it and why would you when they do it so wellContinue reading “Crimson Bloom – Cut Me Down Review”
SONG REVIEW: Wilde – Wasted
By Jeanette Arsenault It’s all about image when you are first starting out. Remember the Bieb? A Canadian I must point out. He’s quite talented and he skyrocketed to the top. Sure he had some luck along the way – who hasn’t had a hand up at some point? It can get you attention butContinue reading “SONG REVIEW: Wilde – Wasted”
SINGLE REVIEW: Scaramanga – “Simple Love”
By Jay Roberts “Simple Love” by brand new Glaswegian electronic two Piece, Scaramanga, is the perfect marriage between Electro-pop and Modern Indie that we all needed. For fans of Bloc Party, this record wouldn’t sound out of place on the likes of Intimacy or Silent Alarm. The song starts off with a catchy drum andContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: Scaramanga – “Simple Love””
Single Review: SMUT. – Water Nymph
by Emily Duff SMUT. is an alternative RnB musician based in Edinburgh. With great anticipation, Water Nymph is her first single released on Spotify. Encapsulating a chilled out ethereal vibe, Water Nymph starts with layers of vocal harmonising that is mirrored throughout the song to give emphasis to the chorus. Taking on an RnB style,Continue reading “Single Review: SMUT. – Water Nymph”
SONG REVIEW: BLVFF – Want For Nothing
by Jeanette Arsenault “The average web visitor reads only 6 words of a headline. The average time spent reading a blog article is 15 seconds. If a reader sticks around past 15 seconds, they’ll likely stay for 7 minutes”, writes Thomas Smith of Gado Images in a Medium Magazine article. I think the same applies to music, too. WeContinue reading “SONG REVIEW: BLVFF – Want For Nothing”
SINGLE REVIEW: THE CAPOLLOS – ‘ELECTRIFY’
By Lauryn Donnelly The indie rock Aberdeen quartet are back yet again with another banger! This is by far their most intense and heaviest single yet, and I cannot get enough of it. Starting off with a hefty drum beat, the bouncy bass and guitar melting in after a few seconds – it’s the kindContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: THE CAPOLLOS – ‘ELECTRIFY’”
SONG REVIEW: Fairweather Friends – Where The River Flows
By Jeanette Arsenault I needed that. A calming, soothing song called *Where The River Flows* by Fairweather Friends. The world needs more of this right now. The COVID-19 pandemic scared most of us into various states of anxiety. Apprehension slowly transitioned into reluctant acceptance and now, gradually, we are poking our noses out ofContinue reading “SONG REVIEW: Fairweather Friends – Where The River Flows”
Single Review – Take The Night: Lost Days
By Myrren Porter This month, The Music Files were introduced to Geordie duo, Take The Night as they released their debut single ‘Lost Days.’ The single which premiers today already has us talking and we are totally obsessed. As an avid lover of all things 80s, I was instantly attracted to the bands taste forContinue reading “Single Review – Take The Night: Lost Days”
EP REVIEW: Kali – What Comes From Isolation
By Jeanette Arsenault Kali’s EP *What Comes From Isolation* has an intriguing title that caught my interest. And further, the fact that it was “recorded in the cupboard under the stairs” according to his Instagram video makes it even more intriguing. What kind of sound can you get in a cupboard under the stairsContinue reading “EP REVIEW: Kali – What Comes From Isolation”
SONG REVIEW: Pottery – Hot Heater
By Jeanette Arsenault Now there’s a name for you. A band called “Pottery”. Ok – sooo…that’s interesting and no doubt there’s a story behind the name. They are from my part of the world – Montreal, Canada so that further piques my interest. But is that a British accent I detect in their new songContinue reading “SONG REVIEW: Pottery – Hot Heater”
A track by track guide to DMA’S ‘The Glow’
By Ryan McConnell Ever since I came across DMA’S in an issue of the NME around five years ago they have been ever-present on my playlists. First play, first listen – they instantly grasped my attention and that of many others. That whole feeling of hearing something familiar but at the same time distinctively differentContinue reading “A track by track guide to DMA’S ‘The Glow’”
SONG REVIEW: Sea Legs – Cupboard
By Jeanette Arsenault First thing I think after listening to *Cupboards* by Sea Legs is “This is a good song” and the second thing I think is: “This is a really good production”. Full disclosure – I don’t have alt indie rock on my playlist. But I can appreciate a good song when I hearContinue reading “SONG REVIEW: Sea Legs – Cupboard”
SINGLE REVIEW: Scarlett Randle – Blue
By Jason Small Within a short timeframe, Scarlett Randle has emerged as one of the most strikingly fabulous faces in the Glaswegian music scene, and after reaching great and grand new heights in 2019 with the chillingly good single Her, Scarlett has come forth with another addition to the library, Blue, headed by sublime coverContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: Scarlett Randle – Blue”
Single Review: Darwin – Dance Alone
By Orla Brady California-based synth-pop artist Darwin Meiners has released his new single Dance Alone. The track firmly proves that Darwin’s talents as a solo artist must be recognised outside his role as manager to Bauhaus and Love and Rockets member David J. Darwin’s solo career has seen him collaborate with the likes of DavidContinue reading “Single Review: Darwin – Dance Alone”
Alex Ohm releases heartfelt track ‘Hours’ in aid of mental health charity – MIND
We all suffer from low points in life with our own mental states at one point or another – some more than others. Periods of self illusion lost within our own negative thoughts, feeling alone and distanced from those who care – self assuming that no one does. The biggest obstacle though is with howContinue reading “Alex Ohm releases heartfelt track ‘Hours’ in aid of mental health charity – MIND”
SINGLE REVIEW: Yazmine MB – I Do
By Jason Small Quite recently, I was introduced to 19 year old London-based R&B artist Yazmine MB, and while I had no prior knowledge of her and even though she wasn’t amassing the biggest social media following as of yet, it immediately clicked that there was some serious potential happening here when I gave herContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: Yazmine MB – I Do”
Single Review: Mark Gardener – Chained
By Orla Brady Since their reunion in 2014, alt-rock band RIDE have experienced a second wave of success by releasing two critically acclaimed albums and playing numerous gigs and festivals. Prior to the reunion, lead vocalist and guitarist Mark Gardener ventured upon a solo career which led to the release of his 2005 album TheseContinue reading “Single Review: Mark Gardener – Chained”
SINGLE REVIEW: Carla J Easton – Get Lost
By Jason Small Before the summer of 2018, I had little knowledge of Carluke musician Carla Easton, save for briefly dabbling in TeenCanteen, but when Olive Grove Records provided me with an advance copy of her full-length album Impossible Stuff to review, it blew me sideaways and back again. A work of art that wouldContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: Carla J Easton – Get Lost”
Single Review: Matt Boylan-Smith – We Dream of River Songs
By Chelsea Ness We discover music from all parts of the world due to the impressive power of social media and that’s exactly how I came across Australian award-winning multi-instrumentalist, Matt Boylan-Smith and his latest single, We Dream of River Songs. Funny story actually… I first discovered Matt when he tagged The Music Files blogContinue reading “Single Review: Matt Boylan-Smith – We Dream of River Songs”
Single Review – Joshua Burnside – Whiskey Whiskey
By Chelsea Ness Belfast singer songwriter, Joshua Burnside’s latest release, Whiskey Whiskey stood out for me as soon as I heard it. The single is made up of two utterly gripping tracks; The Only Thing I Fear and Whiskey Whiskey in which both songs explores such important themes such as battling with a mental healthContinue reading “Single Review – Joshua Burnside – Whiskey Whiskey”
Single Review: Travis | A Ghost
By Ryan McConnell As the saying goes – “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” – which serves as the perfect adage when it comes to talking about one of Scotland’s finest products – Travis. The years pass by and times change as they go – but the one constant you can be assured ofContinue reading “Single Review: Travis | A Ghost”
Declan Milne’s DEBUT Single – “She Loves You”.
Written by Amanda Kilfeather Declan Milne returns to his roots as a solo act, with his new single. Delving deeper into the indie-pop sound developed with five-piece Feels Like Thursday, his experimental freedom found in lockdown has resulted in the undeniably infectious debut track “She Loves You”. I caught up with Declan shortly after theContinue reading “Declan Milne’s DEBUT Single – “She Loves You”.”
Single Review: Asthmatic Harp – To the Boats (feat. Sophie Kilburn)
By Orla Brady Hailing from her native country of Denmark, Glasgow-based songwriter and composer Hannah Fredsgaard-Jones, otherwise known under the stage name of Asthmatic Harp, has released her new single To The Boats this month. She is joined by her fellow Roundhouse Resident Artist, singer-songwriter Sophie Kilburn, on the track and their vocal collaboration flowsContinue reading “Single Review: Asthmatic Harp – To the Boats (feat. Sophie Kilburn)”
SONG Review: Jeremy Tuplin – Space Magic
by Jeanette Arsenault What did I just listen to? I have no idea what that was as I watched Jeremy Tuplin’s song *Space Magic* on YouTube. My first thought is, well, the song definitely has a psychedelic ‘60s retro feel. Kind of spaced out and grooving on a laid-back vibe. The video seems to showcaseContinue reading “SONG Review: Jeremy Tuplin – Space Magic”
SINGLE REVIEW: Peplo – Katarina’s Got My Tongue
By Jason Small In the summer of 2019, the Good Boy Punk Club gave me the opportunity to discover Glaswegian alternative pop group Peplo, and after one mighty fine live display at The Old Hairdressers, that was me hooked. Earlier this year, the band made a newsworthy impression with their debut single Tall, and areContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: Peplo – Katarina’s Got My Tongue”
SINGLE REVIEW: North Atlas – Hypnotist
By Rebecca McPhee North Atlas is a Glasgow based Trio who have been making waves in the alternative rock world with previous singles promoted by the likes of Planet Rock, Kerrang! Radio and BBC Introducing. The band is made up of brothers Leon D Hunter on Vocals, Cam Hunter on Drums and childhood friend LiamContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: North Atlas – Hypnotist”
Single Review: The Joyful Sadness – Perfect Alibi
by Orla Brady Listening to Perfect Alibi, the new track from Preston-based project The Joyful Sadness, we are provided with an honest insight into a haunting recollection of a past relationship. This is achieved through both poetic lyrics, impassioned vocals and dark synth-pop, each of which form and create the emotion of the track. RatherContinue reading “Single Review: The Joyful Sadness – Perfect Alibi”
SINGLE REVIEW: Hannah Slavin – Mac & Cheese
By Jason Small While I did feel late to the party in discovering her, Hannah Slavin of Glasgow nonetheless made a storming impression back in February with then-latest track I Don’t Give A F*** About You after it had been plastered all over my social feeds, and when pondering the question of her being aContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: Hannah Slavin – Mac & Cheese”
SONG REVIEW: Séan Fox – Open Road
By Jeanette Arsenault There are some songs you hear for the first time that you immediately like because it sounds like a song you already know. But it’s not because they have copied that song or parts of it. It’s because it evokes a feeling right away that you can relate to and you don’tContinue reading “SONG REVIEW: Séan Fox – Open Road”
Single Review: RIVIA – Down and Out
by Chelsea Ness With lockdown putting a halt to live music over the last few months, it’s the latest music that is keeping our spirits high during the pandemic! Liverpool Alternative rock piece, Rivia brought out their latest single, Down and Out last week showing fans just how much they’ve got to give. This wasContinue reading “Single Review: RIVIA – Down and Out”
SINGLE REVIEW: DMS – Ordinary Strange
by Jason Small While they had been together beforehand, 2019 was truly the breakthrough rookie year for Edinburgh pop-tinged rock outfit DMS, with much of that owing to the release of their fabulous debut EP – Imposter Syndrome – which deservedly earned a positive reception and bagged them a spot on THE SMS 100 overContinue reading “SINGLE REVIEW: DMS – Ordinary Strange”
Single Review – A Maxwell: Dawn
By Chelsea Ness A Maxwell, the solo project of Glaswegian singer songwriter, Anoghas Maxwell has just released his latest single, Dawn and if you’re a fan of indie folk rock music with incredibly moving lyrics then you’ll absolutely adore it. Yet another incredible talent coming out of Scotland… At first instance when listening to Dawn,Continue reading “Single Review – A Maxwell: Dawn”
Single Review: Dancing on Tables – Losing It
By Chelsea Ness Dunfermline’s own five piece pop rock outfit, Dancing on Tables are without a doubt one of the key players within the Scottish music scene today and their latest single, ‘Losing It’ certainly proves they’re only going to get bigger and bigger. Right from the get-go, the quirky rhythmic guitar, electronic synths andContinue reading “Single Review: Dancing on Tables – Losing It”
RECORD REVIEW: Starless – Earthbound
By Jason Small Long Bhriseadh makes for a stunning entrance piece, serving as a prelude of sorts to the musical journey that we’re about to partake on, but Ailein Duinn is where the record truly gets going, and in extravagant style too. The piano/string combo is spotless and further refined by the outstanding production standard,Continue reading “RECORD REVIEW: Starless – Earthbound”
Behind the Music: Graham McCusker – Theme for Lyra
By Chelsea Ness As we reach week 10 in lockdown, it’s clear a lot of the bands and musicians within the industry have been working on their own personal projects to help raise money for the NHS. Paisley composer, Graham McCusker is no exception with all the proceeds of his latest release: ‘His Dark MaterialsContinue reading “Behind the Music: Graham McCusker – Theme for Lyra”
Single Review: Maya Delilah – I’m Just Stupid
By Alana Strange Maya Delilah recently released her single ‘I’m Just Stupid’ making it the fourth single from her upcoming EP which is set to be released later in June this year. This single comes just after Maya’s charity single ‘Safe’ with funds supporting University College London Hospitals. Maya has a dedicated following and it’sContinue reading “Single Review: Maya Delilah – I’m Just Stupid”
Single Review: One Last Time – Fabric Bear
by Chris Greig A lockdown release done right? Too right. It’s been over a month now since Edinburgh lads Fabric Bear released their latest banger ‘One Last Time’ and I’ve not stopped listening to it since. It’s safe to say it has made its way into my ‘Lockdown Anthems’ playlist. The song kicks off ratherContinue reading “Single Review: One Last Time – Fabric Bear”
