Singles
Clocks - 'Old Valve Radio'
Released: 07/04/2008
Rating: ****
This is a genuinely awesome track. It's The Clocks' first release since joining Island Records in 2007, so the band are not too well known yet, but if their other songs are as good as "Old Valve Radio" then they certainly have something to offer to British music - and their debut album is likely to be very popular. The track is likely to get particular attention from student radio stations because of the huge general student obsession with the indie-pop genre, which it fits into perfectly. It has a great upbeat sound, lively vocals with cheerful lyrics, a guitar solo and a very memorable tune. These guys are going to be big, and probably in time to play at 2008's music festivals. Check out their website, clocksband.com, or listen out for this track on IC Radio.
Reviewed by Chris
The Black Keys - 'Strange Times'
Released: 31/03/2008
Rating: ****
Sharp drums and a strumming guitar open what is a raw, yet intense and compelling track. 'Strange Times' features on The Black Keys' 5th album (Attack & Release); a potential hit that would actually deserve it's title. With hints of blues and general musical experimentation, a trait of the band's, the single can indulge many ears, thus making it popular for a wide range of listeners and not (or at least, not only) the mass followers of mainstream. Its intriguing vocals and attractive rhythm are definitely worth a listen.
Reviewed by Kate
The Sonic Hearts - 'To Be Someone'
Released: 31/03/2008
Rating: ****
The Sonic Hearts have likened their music to the sound of "little stars exploding", but similarities between them and Incubus, The Coral and The Kooks are slightly more noticeable. 'To Be Someone' is a nice track, with a simple melody delivered effortlessly by singer and geetarist (sic) Sean Butler. Although the track gradually builds up, there's never too much going on at one time, which makes for a refreshingly pleasant change.
Review by Chris
Against Me! - 'Stop!'
Rating: *
This band has created a rather large divide between fans of the Foo Fighters, who Against Me! are currently on tour with. This track makes it clear why - sure, it has a catchy punk sound and a little bit of rap at the start to make it "cool", people who look for more than that in music rightly argue that this track's monotony somehow manages to induce senseless boredom despite being only 2 minutes and 37 seconds long, as it's just the same line over and over again!
Reviewed by Chris
Hungover Stuntmen - 'Inside Out'
Rating: ****
Building up from a subdued (but good nonetheless) introduction to a huge, energetic ending as the sound gets bigger and bigger, this track definitely isn't boring. The lyrics aren't especially inspiring, but the musicians are talented and the track sounds great, so this is definitely worth a listen.
Reviewed by Chris
The Metros - 'Education PT.2'
Released: 17/03/2008
Rating: ***
Education Pt.2 is the debut single from Peckham band The Metros.
The song generates a strong sense of deja vu from a variety of guitar bands- comparisons with 'Ian Dury and the Blockheads' are particularly striking (the record is even produced by Baxter Dury , the son of the aforementioned).
Whilst the track isn't going to change the musical world, it boasts an interestingly loose structure. This is backed up by solid guitar and drum sections, and sprawled with a self-styled 'lippy upstarts' take on education, making an entertaining, if forgettable, three minutes, thirty seconds of music.
Review by Nat
The Briganties - 'The Girl Heaven Sold To The World'
Released: 10/03/2008
Rating: ***1/2*
The Briganties are a band from the north of England, formed in late 2005 through a mutual love of soaring melodies and anthemic choruses. They've been establishing themselves as a band, playing packed audiences in both England and Scotland as well as receiving substantial airplay on radio stations, such as BBC Radio 1. Due out on 10th March 2008 is their new single "The Girl Heaven Sold To The World".
The Briganties definitely bring an alternative sound to the indie scene, theirs is raw, melodic and full of passion (something often lacking in contemporary artists). Each song (the promo CD also features 'Covert Operation' and 'Underground') builds its own climax and has a distinctive rhythm, although all seem to create quite a dark atmosphere. Noteworthy is the steadyness of guitar and drums, it is ultimately the strength of each track, along with the intense vocals. The music is not unheard of, underlying it are hints of 70's punk and 80's hard rock, neertheless the Briganties are bringing back some of the old fire, the kind that turns seemigly-ordinary songs into classics. Keep an eye out for them.
Reviewed by Kate
Ida Maria - 'Stella'
Released: 10/03/2008
Rating: ***1/2*
Following two Radio 1 favourite singles and while growing a reputetion for her live performannces, Norwegian singer-songwriter-guitarist, Ida Maria is building a name for herself with her latest release, 'Stella'. Entering the musical world at 14 and with influences ranging from Iggy Pop, to Bob Dylan, to The Smiths, the now 23-year old has found a sound that is bold, exciting and strange, reflecting her personality.
'Stella' tells the story of God giving the world away to a 43-year-old prostitute from Manhattan in return for a night with her and is musically almost as innovative as the theme. The tune is catchy and the chorus memorable. Ida Maria's vocals -quite hoarse at times- are reminiscent of Janis Joplin, whereas the manner in which she sings, and lyrics themselves resemble the work of Lou Reed. A lively single, fairly different from usual mainstreem indie but still without that much to brag about. It will however attract listeners of various musical styles.
Reviewed by Kate
The Tunics - 'Cost of Living'
Released: 10/03/2008
Rating: ***
At first, you could be forgiven for confusing this band with so many other rock groups we've heard over the last few years, their sound rings so many bells. Listen a bit harder, though, and you notice that unlike all the other bands with their inane lyrics, these guys have tried to provoke thought and possibly even emotion with 'Cost of Living'. The track is also very well produced, so it sounds good. Definitely worth a listen!
Reviewed by Chris
Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly. - 'Find The Time'
Released: 10/03/2008
Rating: **
This is an alright-sounding track, with a gentle acoustic introduction and a memorable melody. The fact it is "alright" and not "brilliant" is irritating though, as it has the potential to be so much better. Unfortunately my response to this track was similar to the widespread response to his first album. The vocals are weak, and the music sounds dull as a result. If you enjoyed the first album though, check this out on IC Radio.
Reviewed by Chris
The SeLF - 'Somebody Nobody'
Released: 10/03/2008
Rating: ****
The new single from 'The SeLF' captures the feel of 'The Verve' at their anthemic best. As a mid tempo soundscape seeps from the guitars, singer Herman Stephens delivers heartfelt lyrics of substance with aplomb. The way the song ebbs back and forth from verse to chorus in an uncomplicated structure makes the track easy to listen to, yet also emphasises the songs towering nature. If 'The SeLF' can produce an albums worth of songs like this, expect them to be leading thousands of lighter-holding fans at a festival soon.
Reviewed by Nat
Johnny Foreigner - 'Our Bipolar Friends'
Released: 10/03/2008
Rating: **
'Our Bipolar Friends' is the anticipated first release from 'Johnny Foreigner'. The track begins deceptively, with tender female vocals singing over a lull of tranquil guitars in the background . Around forty seconds in, these abruptly give way to the true nature of this track, as a blitz of frenzied punk rock guitar and drums take over; with the previously serene vocals being replaced by a combination of unsettled and chaotic male/female alterations, not dissimilar to 'The Subways' vocal style. However, this songs downfall is its lack of structure, which whilst keeping the track unpredictable and edgy, makes for a musical mish-mash of unmemorable ideas.
Reviewed by Nat
Royworld - 'Man in the Machine'
Released: 03/03/2008
Rating: *
'We Are Scientists' new single 'After Hours' is the first from new album 'Brain Thrust Mastery', and also the first since the loss of their drummer Michael Tapper. Lacking a member, the remaining two piece more than make up for it with this assured song which draws strong comparisons with Arcade Fire throughout. The song maintains a high intensity , which is mixed with a captivating rhythm from the drums. Add memorable lyrics and a straightforward structure into the mix, and the song possesses an anthemic quality. The band website describes the song with no fewer than sixteen adjectives, which seems excessive when 'superb' does the job effectively.
Reviewed by Nat
(for the record, Chris disagrees completely!)
We Are Scientists - 'After Hours'
Released: 03/03/2008
Rating: ****
'We Are Scientists' new single 'After Hours' is the first from new album 'Brain Thrust Mastery', and also the first since the loss of their drummer Michael Tapper. Lacking a member, the remaining two piece more than make up for it with this assured song which draws strong comparisons with Arcade Fire throughout. The song maintains a high intensity , which is mixed with a captivating rhythm from the drums. Add memorable lyrics and a straightforward structure into the mix, and the song possesses an anthemic quality. The band website describes the song with no fewer than sixteen adjectives, which seems excessive when 'superb' does the job effectively.
Reviewed by Nat
Bears are coming - 'Late of the Pier'
Released: 03/03/2008
Rating: ****
It can be easy to clump Late of the Pier into the terribly materialistic "Nu-Rave" genre, but this band from Castle Donington are much more than that. The track starts off with pounding, almost tribal drums, and you know you're in for an aural assault of sorts from the outset. Vocals and synthesizers ferociously enter, creating a very funky, danceable verse. It carries on this way until about half way through, until we are met with a 60's-style guitar-led rhythm part. Following this we get a truly joyous, celebratory digression complete with choral singing, sounding not too unlike The Flaming Lips. This is definitely something new, and I for one loved it since it is such a departure from the same-old same-old indie music we are getting so used to hearing at the moment. Wonderfully fulfilling and exciting music.
Reviewed by Mit Shah
Shocking Pinks - 'Emily'
Released: 03/03/2008
Rating: ****
Shocking Pinks are a New Zealand band, with Nick Harte being the only permanent member of a continually varying line-up. 4 albums in, "Emily" is their latest offering. It boasts a mouth-wateringly scuzzy, overdriven bass which is complemented by sparse guitars and metallophone sounds, creating a very textured atmosphere. Harte's vocals are dreamy, and the back-to-basics approach works really well on this single. I absolutely love this song, and am drawn by its romantic simplicity and honest cries to "Emily", presumably a previous lover. All in all, this is an intimately warm song.
Reviewed by Mit Shah
Fightstar - 'Floods'
Released: 03/03/2008
Rating: *
Try as I might there is no way I can avoid it; Fightstar are a band out to prove themselves. Floods marks the 'rock/progressive/metal' outfits latest attempt to finally dissociate their name with that of frontman Charlie Simpson's former pop rock outfit Busted. Things get off to a good start with moody piano, quite a large sounding guitar part and some half decent vocals, but unfortunately it's downhill from here on in. Floods never really kicks in and lacks any sort of excitement or energy, the song seems to get lost in itself and all meld into one over emotional mush of stale innocuous sound. You can't help feeling it's all a little bit too contrived with the addition of strings behind the somewhat meaningless lyrics and textbook backing vocals. Moreover, Floods is a departure from the bands heavier work, perhaps an attempt to appeal to a more commercial market, and as the band strive for recognition they only succeed in seeming more ridiculous. Floods gains Fightstar marks for effort, but I'm sorry, I still can't shake the memories of What I go to School for...
Floods is released on March the 3rd and coincides with Fightstars next gig at Madame Jojo's on the same date.
Reviewed by Rich 'The Man' Waldie
OneRepublic - 'Stop and Stare'
Released: 03/03/2008
Rating: ***
LA-based OneRepublic are the first 'rock' band to be signed to Timbaland's record label, Interscope Records/Mosley Music Group, and is getting a lot of media attention in the US - especially on TV - with 'Stop and Stare' following their hit single 'Apologise' (which also featured as a remix on Timbaland's album Shock Value). Although the band's been around since 2003, it's since 2006 and after quite a few modifications in the line-up, that OneRepublic's been gaining popularity, due to online exposure mainly; it is now definitely one of the biggest Myspace bands with over 20 million songs played - and counting.
'Stop and Stare' features on their debut album, Dreaming Out Loud and is one of those mellow, bittersweet, typical pop-rock songs, with sentimental lyrics and a simple melodic tune. It is an attractive track for the mainstream and will probably get a lot of airplay. But all in all, there's not much to rave about, it is neither the first, last nor the best of its kind. The band itself, other than the fact that there are three guitars as well as a cello involved, is also your average pop-rock band: very popular, that does very well for itself and whose songs will be played a lot at proms and in TV-series (the latter is already a true statement).
Reviewed by Kate
Cage the Elephant - 'In One Ear'
Released: 02/03/2008
Rating: ****
This first release, from Kentucky band 'Cage the Elephant', evokes the essence of traditional rock music; confident and brash vocals snarl over a thudding drum beat, fused with a groovy bass line. The track explodes with an aggressive and raw nature throughout, with a fizzing lead guitar adequately complimenting the vocals; which although will no doubt polarize listeners due to their simple nature, suit the style of the track effectively.
The chorus proclaims that criticism goes "in one ear, and right out the other". However, on the basis of this impressive and catchy single, the same cannot be said about Cage the Elephant's music.
Reviewed by Nat
XX TEENS - 'HOW TO REDUCE THE CHANCES OF BEING A TERROR VICTIM'
Released: 25/02/2008
Rating: ****
XX Teens, on this rather convoluted track, are preaching to us, giving us a series of instructions on how to (yes, you guessed it) reduce the chances of becoming a victim of terrorism. A highly topical track, the lyrics are actually loosely based on advice from Fox news, and advise us to "wear comfortable clothing and shoes in case you need to quickly evacuate" and to "spend as little time as possible in an airport". Delivery in spoken word over a thumping drum beat produces a claustrophobic atmosphere, only intermittently relieved by short guitar samples. Comparisons to Scroobius Pip vs Dan Le Sac are inevitable, but XX Teens are somewhat tighter in their delivery. Jolly good stuff.
Reviewed by Mit
Turncoat - 'Wasted On You'
Released: 25/02/2008
Rating: ***
The Smiths, Pulp and The Beatles have all influenced Turncoat's records, they say in their biography. Although there are a few nice quirks like the backing vocals reiterating lyrics for obvious emphasis, this does essentially mean that we've heard a lot of very similar bands before. It's a good track, though, with interesting melodies and a good beat.
Reviewed by Chris
Vincent Vincent and the Villains - 'Pretty Girl'
Relased: 25/02/2008
Rating: ***
This track will make good light-hearted listening if you like the Libertines, who they bear a striking resemblance to. The vocals are different, which makes a refreshing change, but there is little progression throughout the song and the chorus is not especially memorable.
Reviewed by Chris
Mark Ronson- 'Just'
Released: 18/02/2008
Rating: ***
Not content with simply being a highly sought-after producer, Mark Ronson presents us his interpretation of the classic Radiohead hit "Just", having already tackled The Smiths, The Zutons and Kaiser Chiefs on his double platinum album "Versions". Vocals come courtesy of Alex Greenwald (lead singer of Phantom Planet, who were responsible for The OC theme tune). Whilst this is an interesting spin on a classic, its weaknesses lie in the song sounding too much like the original, particularly Greenwood's vocals. The saxophones on the song are great however. A satisfactory, radio-friendly cover.
Reviewed by Mit
Diarmand O'Meara - 'Antecedent'
Released: 18/02/2008
Rating: ****
"Antecedent", Irish O'Meara's second release from upcoming album "Antisocial Behaviour", sustains interest throughout with its complicated hypnotic synths and irregular juxtaposing samples. The structure is normal enough - it's not completely weird - but the track is definitely far enough out of the ordinary for it to potentially be a popular dancefloor hit over the next few months. Being electro, it's likely to be remixed by more than a few professional and amateur DJs, which should be interesting! It's out on the 18th February, on Gobsmacked Records Ltd.
Reviewed by Chris
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds - 'Dig Lazarus Dig!'
Released: 18/2/2008
Rating: ****
A little different from Nick Cave's previous material. One tends to be cautious and concerned with such comebacks, it is however unnecessary in this case. This first whiff of the new album is refreshing, oozing with energy and a catchy tune. The sound is still signature of Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, with almost sermonising vocals over a sharp guitar riff. Lyrics are interesting/troubling. The chorus however is not as good as the verses. All in all, though, excellent material.
Reviewed by Kate
The Alps - 'Something I Might Regret'
Released: 11/02/2008
Rating: ****
The promotional leaflet accompanying this single mentions their tunes being "as finely chiselled as their striking good looks". It's certainly true that this very well produced track sounds great to listen to, and is definitely radio friendly. Its built-in upbeat cheerfulness gives it instant appeal - even though the lyrics are on the vaguely depressing side - unless you concentrate on those, though, this track will keep you entertained for three minutes. We're looking forward to hearing more from The Alps later this year!
Reviewed by Chris
H two O Ft. Platnum - 'What's It Gonna Be' (Agent X Re-Rub Edit)
Released: 11/02/2008
Rating: ****
Genre blending can be a real curse to music as a whole, but luckily for us 'new speed garage' as dished out by H two O and Platnum is HOT. With a garagesque opening ,a thumping beat that carries througout and sweet a vocals by H two O this tune is bound to please. I'm not the only one to think this either, the verions out there are numerous my favourite being Agent X's Re-Rub Edit. With its infectious hook, great response from the community and a cracking video to boot, expect to hear this alot in 08.
Reviewed by Anthony
Goldfrapp - 'A&E'
Released: 11/2/08
Rating: *** 1/2* (not 4)
Calm, soothing tune and beautiful vocals. Great bridge. Short track but enough to please the listener, and set him/her in a good mood. The simple instrumentation is perfect for the song's style with good alternations between verse-bridge-chorus (the last can also be said of the vocals).
Reviewed by Kate
The Feeling - 'I Thought It Was Over'
Released: 11/02/2008
Rating: ****
The Feeling's inherent "Marmite Effect" (you either love them, or you hate them) was first noticeable when "Twelve Stops and Home" sold 800,000 copies in the UK. While The Observer thought the album deserved 5 stars, respected music magazine NME gave it a score of just 4/10. It seems the Marmite Effect built into their 2008 album "Join With Us", due for release in mid-February, is apparently even stronger... Track #1, "I Thought It Was Over", has received a very mixed reaction - but if you like The Feeling's infectious pop hooks, tinny synths, and "cock rock" guitar riffs, you'll like this track.
Reviewed by Chris
The Tunics - 'Somewhere in Somebody's Heart'
Released: Late Spring 08
Rating: ****
Suits perfectly with what our radio plays (or should play), should get much airplay. A lot of energy, excitement and a steady rythm in every track. Fairly simple but attractive guitar riffs and pleasant vocals (with good lyrics too). Melodies stick in your head, with a feel-good feeling even though the lyrics aren't particularly optimistic. Can be considered mainstreem rock however this is not very accurate as there is something quite distinctive and unusual to the sound of the Tunics, it differentiates them from the mainstreem and makes them a very attractive band to listen to.
Reviewed by Kate
30 Seconds To Mars - 'From Yesterday'
Released: 04/02/2008
Rating: ****
This very well produced track, with its stylish distant guitar introduction, catchy riffs, borderline metallic percussion and fury-ridden vocals, is a great release from synth-rock band 30 Seconds To Mars. It sounds great, and grows on you with each listen - I look forward to hearing what the audience thinks.
Reviewed by Chris
Los Salvadores - 'My Coloured Town'
Released: 04/02/2008
Rating: ***
Even though the music Los Salvadores are making is interestingand driving, I cannot say it is something I would chose to play often. This is punk but one can hear other genres and styles influencing the band's sound, notably jazz and folk - there is much emphasis on keyboards and the guitarist obviously knows what he's doing (something that cannot be said for many punk bands). It's always exciting to hear something different to the usual mainstreem tracks: 'My Coloured Town' has some originality and all-round positive aspects making it a good single for the airwaves, though this is mostly for the sake of diversity - and some minority that wil genuinely appreciate the music.
Reviewed by Kate
Badly Drawn Boy - 'The Time Of Times'
Released: 03/02/2008
Rating: ***
The first time I put this track on, I actually thought I'd got the wrong song and was listening to a different edition of "The Shining" from 2000 album "The Hour Of Bewilderbeast", some of the initial chord progressions, melodies and cadences are so similar. In fact, the style of the entire song is very similar to some of Badly Drawn Boy's oldest tracks - but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It makes very pleasant listening, as Badly Drawn Boy does what he does best - with simple, memorable melodies and fairly innocuous lyrics - the fact remains though that much of this has been recycled from eight years ago; although the cello and French horn have been replaced with strings and a piano, we would have liked to see something slightly more adventurous.
Reviewed by Chris
The Blakes - 'Two Times'
Released: 31/01/2008
Rating:***1/2*
A strong intro for both tracks, catchy tune. (On first listening you think you're hearing the White Stripes, which can mean these guys are on a good road to success.) There're somme good guitar solos and the verses are just as good as the chorus. A lot of enegy comming from vocals as well as the other instruments. All in all good, solid single. Listener will be expecting more of the same caliber.
Reviewed by Kate
Richard Hawley - 'Valentine'
Released: 28/1/08
Rating: ** 1/2* (3 is too good for it)
OK but probably not very compatible with what our radio usually plays. Romantic - old style, not to be played often but a good break from usual mainstreem tracks. Orchestration is pleasing.
Reviewed by Kate
I was a cub scout - 'Pink squares (radio edit)'
Released: 28/01/2008
Rating: **
Unremarkable a scarily ordinary indie pop. Gentle keyboard work provides layering but the song still fails to pack a punch.
Reviewed by Yasmin
Cajun Dance Party - 'The race'
Released: 28/01/2008
Rating: ***
Arctic Monkeys style simplistic melodies and catchy lyrics make this one likely to be a success. Full of giddy teenage confusion and optimism. Try track 1.
Reviewed by Yasmin
Laura Marling - 'Ghosts'
Released: 28/01/2008
Rating: ****
Always dubious of over-hype I was hesitant about this one but it is sheer brilliance. Ghosts has echoes of every brilliant female singer-songwriter of the past fifty years and yet still come across as refreshingly original
Reviewed by Yasmin
Hot Chip - 'Ready for the Floor '
Released: 28/01/2008
Rating: ****
Be patient with the intro; this song is one of their best yet - for dancing, chilling out, putting on a mix tape, for pretty much any occasion, hot chip will not let you down
Reviewed by Yasmin
Love is all - mixed up
Released: 21/01/2008
Rating: ***
A great compilation - fun, well-organised and very listenable. Personal favourite is the tapedeck remix - definitely dance music at it's most fashionable.
Reviewed by Yasmin
Dave Gahan - 'Saw Something' / 'Deeper and Deeper'
Released: 14/1/08
Rating: *** for saw something, * for deeper and deeper
Saw Something is an all round passable track. The violins are a great addition to the electronic sounds behind vocals. The vocals themselves suit perfectly with the underlying rythm. The atmoshere created is soothing, as is the melody.Excellent choice of including the guitar solo. Deeper and deeper doesn't have much going for it, other than the fact that it could be easily played - and dancd to - in a club because of the background beat and contorting sounds. It is not musically interesting and the lyrics are a particular antipathetic feature.
Reviewed by Kate
The Wombats - 'Moving to New York'
Released: 14/1/08
Rating: **
There is not much to say, this is your typical mainstreem track. Could get much airplay but it would be best not to. There is simply nothing particular about this, nothing very pleasing and nothing displeasing either, other than it's lack of originality. Neither vocals, tune nor lyrics are inspiring.
Reviewed by Kate
Invox - 'Automatic Nature'
Rating: **
This disc is so similar to Muse in every sense imaginable that even the cover illustration looks like a scene from "Stockholm Syndrome". The vocals are equally depressing and wailed in exactly Matt Bellamy's style. However, the combination of heavy drums and guitar - wait - no, that's exactly the same as well. It sounds alright, but not as good as the real thing, of course.
Reviewed by Chris
Those Dancing Days - 'Hitten'
Released: January 2008
Rating: *
This frankly weird song combines strange musical cadences with the vocal quirks of Rihanna and the style of the Sugababes - all group members singing in unison, which just never works well. It may make Eurovision 2008, but it doesn't make good radio.
Reviewed by Chris
Powderfinger - 'Lost and Running'
Released: January 2008
Rating: ****
Rolling Stones reminiscent 'Lost and Running' is a surprisingly catchy release with a simple acoustic charm that grows with each listening, making it an easy track to find yourself singing along to. Great for daytime radio.
Reviewed by Chris
The Little Ones - 'Ordinary Song'
Released: 14th January 2008
Rating: ***
Ordinary Song does not do this song justice, the cheerful indie pop and nice backing vocals sound good and work well. If you like the Pigeon Detectives and think you might like something slightly more subdued and harmonious, you’ll like this track.
Reviewed by Chris
Kevin Jon - 'When Fear Gets in the Way'
Released: October 2007
Rating: *
The letter accompanying this promo CD talks of how this song reflects Kevin's struggles with illness. Unfortunately it seems as if this is almost like a card being played to win sympathy... Although the bassline sounds alright in parts, as it strives to achieve Timbaland's trademark RnB sound that is unequivocally extremely popular at the moment, it can be borderline unpleasant to listen to in others. The style of vocals do not match the music - indeed, they would be more at home filling the backing track of a Westlife song. This instantly forgettable single won't be given much airtime at IC Radio.
Reviewed by Chris
Stereophonics - 'My Friends'
Released:
Great intro, and a signature Stereophonics sound; current fans will love it and it might even convert a few more as it has a slightly more upbeat than a lot of their previous material. Mainstream and good for daytime radio, just a shame all the songs on their new album aren't as good as this.
Reviewed by
Scouting For Girls - 'Elvis Aint Dead'
Released:
Upbeat pop with a strong drum line but rather repetitive tune. Shamelessly simple and fun - bound to appeal to indie kids and pop fans alike. Great for daytime radio, very mainstream.
Reviewed by Yasmin
Jape - 'Floating'
Released: December 2007
This song can sound a bit samey after a while as very little happens to the music during the song. The synthesiser works well, though, and makes it sound quite chilled out.
Reviewed by Chris
Jacob Golden - 'Revenge Songs'
Released:
Bound to be a huge hit with fans of the singer-songwriter genre, with Damien Rice-like vocals and excellent lyrics. Easy to listen to, but makes a lasting impact. Definitely worth a listen.
Reviewed by Yasmin
Los Campesinos! - 'The International Tweexcore Underground '
Released: December 2007
This is a great-sounding song with unusual mechanisms for sustaining interest; intricate syncopated rhythms and non-standard (but very fitting) vocals are likely to make this one a big hit.
Reviewed by Chris
Josh Ritter - 'Right Moves'
Released:
Very cheerful melody, kind of '60s style. Trumpets are an asset and the song could be quite popular. For me it's too cheesy though and any liking I have towards it is on a superficial level.
Reviewed by Kate
The Enemy - 'We'll Live & Die In These Towns'
Released:
Short and simple. Guitar is very basic - however, not such a bad thing here as it suits the song well. Don't like the chorus. There's nothing to go on about nor to be very critical of: this is a plain, breezy song that can easily be played on air (but will not stir much attention or emotion).
Reviewed by Kate
Bloc Party - 'Flux'
Released:
Quite different from usual bloc party tracks. Good beat, nice ending, is uplifting but not particularly enthralling. Mainstream tune so easilly played on air (and danced to by listeners). Nothing to get hooked on though.
Reviewed by Kate
Fightstar - 'We Apologise For Nothing'
Released:
Smooth vocals and cool riff. But all in all doesn't affect the listener. On 'We appologise for nothing' chorus and bridge are simple and don't do much for the rest of the song, also it sticks to your head, which isn't necessarilly a good thing. 'Gracious' is a little more interesting at first thought but the ocasional screams (which are out of place)kill any keeness one might have had towards it originally.
Reviewed by Kate
Duke Special - 'Last Night I Nearly Died '
Released:
Tune is not at all original. Dull melody and vocals. Very mushy. Too long, without any signifiant changes to make song more interesting. Wouldn't play it on air.
Reviewed by Kate
Biffy Clyro - 'Saturday Superhouse'
Released:
"Saturday Superhouse" is a great upbeat rock track with a memorable tune that you can end up humming to yourself for the rest of the day. Its status as Biffy Clyro's highest UK charting single to date is well deserved.
Reviewed by Chris
Little Man Tate - 'Boy In The Anorak'
Released:
Great riffs throughout and an almost Arctic Monkeys -style sound with Stereophonics-style harmonising make it a catchy song that will undoubtedly do well (being more mainstream and widely appealing than their previous records) and be well played at our station.
Reviewed by Chris
Grace - 'Slowly'
Released:
Overall a pleasant song; for me, nothing to write home about as there is little progression during the song. However, it does sound good, and the piano and Panic! at the disco -style vocals do add interest.
Reviewed by Chris
Simian Mobile Disco - 'Hustler'
Released:
I loved this record from the first listening, and I'm sure others will feel the same. The sound is funky, with gripping rhythms, memorable lyrics and plenty of attitude in the bassline. The production on the Clean Radio Edit is brilliant, and the video isn't bad either... Although I was slightly disappointed by the Armand van Helden Remix and Remix Edit, the other remixes are outstanding - especially Shackleton's minimal remix and Jesse Rose's dirty electro remix with excellent ripping basslines. I can't wait to get this on the air!
Reviewed by Chris
Biffy Clyro - 'Machines'
Released:
A really beautiful song, bittersweet makes you feel all mushy inside. Will try not to overplay it and do the song justice !
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Enjoy Destroy - 'Screamer'
Released:
Screamer: Very American foo fighter like sound. Really liking the upbeat energetic feel. Whole thing lack depth and doesn't take itself too seriously, result is a fun sound that we'll play but it ain't a classic. Addtional track: Music to Love You to Bit Samey dosn't go anywhere, still a great quality sound though but nothing really grabs me.
Reviewed by
mewithoutYou - 'Nice and Blue (pt Two)'
Released:
Nice Gutsy sound. A little bit different in a very good way. Really hot ways of varying texture with just rhytmic sections, all round a refreshing tune that will definetly prick some ears up.
Reviewed by
The Delta Fiasco - 'Paperhouse'
Released:
Cool opening, however fails to really lift off from there. Gets into a cool rhythm with first chorus but then becomes samey. Cool sound though.
Reviewed by
Los Campesinos! - 'You ! Me ! Dancing !'
Released:
Cooky, kinda unstructured but fun. I like the upbeat tone of the track and although it kind of wanders all over the place it's a cool tune.
Reviewed by
The Wombats - 'Let's Dance To Joy Division'
Released:
Slick opening riff, right pace to keep me interested throughout. Has some interesting moments that combine to make a sweet little audio treat that keeps me coming back for more.
Reviewed by
The Enemy - 'You're Not Alone'
Released:
Catchy tune with a cool opening & chorus. Really liking it want to get it on air ASAP.
Reviewed by