Single Review - Lord Swans / The Plan

Written by Adam Gallagher

'The Plan' is the newest single to come from Whitburn's own Lord Swans.

The four piece have created a more mature sound compared to their past material, not that there is anything wrong with that, far from it in fact. It seems as if they have decided a slight change is what they needed when it came to releasing new music and I for one am not going to object to that if the band keep putting out tracks like the 'The Plan'.

It is the type of music that will appeal to fans of any age. With a more chilled vibe and echoes of Biffy Clyro throughout the track, you can tell the boys have certainly taken their time producing this song, making sure that every second of it is how they want it to sound.

Vocals of Matthew are chilled through out the song but it goes perfectly hand in hand with the sound that Matt himself along with the other members; Adam Dixon, Sam Thompson and Joe Condon have been able to create.

The boys should be very proud of what they have released, because I am and I certainly I aren't the only one who has found themselves whacking this single on repeat.

If you are wanting to get your hands on the track follow the link below -

The Plan - Single Lord Swans

Welcome!

To Ear To The Ground!

Enjoy!

Preview - Down To The Woods Festival 2016

Written by Nathan Douthwaite

Hardwick Live is a fleeting memory in the North East music scene, in a sense it’s dead, so long live Down to the Woods (DTTW) festival. Hardwick Live’s impressive replacement.

After the announcement that the music aspect of Stockton’s Riverside festival was scraped, festival season in Teesside began looking a little sparse. So the perfect time for organisers of DTTW festival to announce that they will be entering the big leagues this summer.

They didn’t disappoint either, gathering a range of Britain’s biggest acts right now. Not only are the phenomenal Primal Scream headlining but so are the hugely popular Chase and Status, who have worked with Jay-Z, Slaves, Plan B and many many more. They have had huge hits with “End Credits”, “Blind Faith” and “Hypest Hype”.

So already there’s two huge bands performing at this festival, but the organisers thought “no, we won’t stop there” and brought in one of the biggest “of the moment” bands around, Catfish & The Bottlemen.

Who reached arena status after their debut album “The Balcony” became a household name. Then there’s Echo and the Bunnymen, who have entertained people with their music for generations.
Four hugely popular bands will all be playing our very own Teesside. Impressive.

It doesn’t stop there though, look at the line-up poster below to see for yourself.

There’s Vant, an indie band who are growing in popularity with each single, similar with Clean Cut Kid, who had chart success with their single “Vitamin C”.

Then look lower and you’ll see the name Blaenavon (we’ve included them in one of our TOTW) a trio who have supported all kinds of bands in the last year and are releasing their long anticipated debut album this August.

Peter Hook, the ex-Joy Division/New Order bassist, will be performing with his band “the light”. Alongside the upcoming pop artist Kloe, who has toured around the UK and played countless shows in the past few months.

Then just towards the bottom, Inheaven and White, two upcoming indie bands who have a fresh sound to bring to the scene. White’s track “Living fiction” has earned them a loyal following already, so seeing them now before they get “massive” would be a good idea.

Of course these are only a few of the many bands that have already been announced for the festival. Not to mention the bold “MORE ACTS TO BE ANNOUNCED”.

All for the cheap price of £99 and its local, what more could you ask for? Down to the Woods is going to kick start its legacy with a fantastic line-up. Can you afford to miss out?

Single Review - Mouses / Poison

Written by Nathan Douthwaite

Pumped up distorted vocals swagger freely on Billingham duo’s newest single “Poison”.

The tracks sound resembles bands such as Yuck and Menace Beach. Swimming in fuzz and distortion but still incredibly clear. It has a sing-a-long element to it, making it incredibly catchy despite its aggressive feel in the first few seconds. You can instantly fall in love with this song.

The production of the track has captured the roughness and full-on vibe that Mouses produce in their live shows, which is of course one of their many appeals.

The songs underlying meaning is deeper the more you read into it, social anxiety and the need for “a little bit of poison to get me out of bed”.
After the success of Mouses other releases, this single has paved the way for the band to release their long anticipated debut album and if “Poison” is anything to go by, we’re in for a treat.

To purchase the single, click the link below

http://shop.sister9.com/album/poison-single

Stockton Calling 2016 / Review (Part 1)

Written by Adam Gallagher

Saturday 26th March 2016, the quiet town of Stockton was awoken with a mass of music lovers invading the town. That's right it's that annual treat that goes by the name of Stockton Calling. It yet again pulled off an amazing all day festival that truly showcased some of the outstanding local talent that the North East has to offer. Here is my review of the festival, part one of two.

Towzer @ KU Bar

To kick start my Stockton Calling, I ventured over to one of, if not my favourite music venue the North East has to offer never mind just Stockton - KU Bar. I walked in the room maybe a few early birds, but boy was I wrong. With the conversation in the room buzzing, bodies filled the room and I found myself trying to find a good spot to stand and see the band.


Once I had a good spot and a beer in hand, I was waiting with excitement and anticipation for a band that I've not seen before, Towzer. For a band that only recently came together in January of this year, they certainly outdid the expectations I had for the band.

They bring a fresh feel to the music they produce. It is certainly something different from other bands that are around at the moment. It's a throwback from the 60's/70's sound meeting the 21st century indie sound that has created so much success for so many bands.

What a way to start my Stockton Calling.

If you want to hear what Towzer sound like, head over to their sound click the link below - http://www.soundcloud.com/towzerband

Figmennt @ Musiclounge

My next stop on this music train was Musiclounge, where Idle Promotions had taken over for the day.

Now Figmennt are another band that I was seeing for the first time, due to one reason or another, I seemed to never get my timing right when wanting to see these guys, but now was the perfect time. The hype they have created over the last year or so is certainly one that I couldn't ignore and finally I found the chance to go see them. I had to rush from KU over to the music lounge to make sure I caught as much of their set as possible, luckily I got there just before they started. Thankgod. It was a good job I rushed as the room got packed out very quickly.

This post/rock four piece showcased their talent and the crowd responded in the only way they knew how to when a good band were performing, masses of applause accompanied by a room full of cheers. The stand out track was certainly 'She' with the band singing and the crowd joining in with lead singer Joe.  It was a solid set by the boys and it certainly lived up to all the hype I had heard of this band.

To hear Figmennt's single 'She' click the link below -

https://figmenntband.bandcamp.com/releases

Joe Ramsey @ The Vault


We ventured into The Vault, Stockton's hidden bar. We found ourselves getting very up close and personal with other people in the crowd while waiting for Joe Ramsey and his band. With the room filling up very quickly, it was only a matter of time before the old 'one in, one out' rule was put in place.


If you were one of the lucky ones like myself to get the pleasure of watching and listening to Joe and the band perform, you'll fully understand when I say, they were phenomenal. The crowd were positive and supportive throughout whilst Joe played, I soon realised that The Vault was the perfect stage for Joe and the band to show off their talent.

I am putting this out there - this set was the highlight of my Stockton Calling. It provided an extremely positive feeling as I enjoyed myself singing along with many others, and you could tell all of joe's band and Joe himself we're loving performing for this crowd.

To keep up to date with Joe's music check out the link's below -

Facebook - www.facebook.com/joeramseymusic
Soundcloud - www.soundcloud.com/joeramseymusic
Youtube - www.youtube.com/user/joeramseymusic

Mouses @ KU Bar

The punk-rock duo from Billingham are very well known on the local scene and even further afield. It was no surprise that it was a tight squeeze in Ku Bar as we all waited for Mouses to step on stage.

From the get go, the pair set the tempo at a high pace and never let it drop, singer Steven Bardgett bounced around the stage with his energy and drummer Nathan Duff was working that hard, he ended up playing 75% of the set topless, can't blame him either. The energy this pair produce on stage is infectious. I found myself loosening up and unable to take my eyes off the stage.

The highlight was defiantly their song 'Algebra', it has a class drum beat that as I looked around briefly, everyone's head was moving, some people evening jumping up and down at certain points. Mix the drum with Steven's guitar and his vocals and you soon begin to realise why Mouses are so well liked within the local scene, they produce music that isn't close to anything I've heard before.

If you want to hear more from Mouses, click the links below -

Official Website - www.musicglue.com/mouses/
Facebook - www.facebook.com/mousestheband

Coquin Migale @ The Green Room

After a quick food break and running through the rain, we headed to the Green Room stage, where Newcastle based band Coquin Migale had just stepped onto stage.

The alternative four piece produced a sound that certainly can fill out bigger rooms, but with it being the band's first appearance at both Stockton itself and Stockton Calling, I can understand why they were on a smaller stage than some people would have thought. Never the less the band put on a stellar performance and no doubt in a few years they will work their way up to bigger stages.

I wanted to see this band for so long, after hearing their material and new single "Grindie" which by the way was unbelievable to listen to live. It was a band that surely will grow and grow and go on to moving up the stages and also expanding their fan base. It certainly is only the beginning for this band.

Want to know more about Coquin Migale, head over to the links below -

Facebook - www.facebook.com/CoquinMigale
Twitter - @CoquinMigale
GooglePlus - +CoquinMigale
Youtube - www.youtube.com/user/CoquinMigale

Interview with Benjamin Francis Leftwich

Written by Nathan Douthwaite

York born singer-songwriter Benjamin Francis Leftwich is back and the announcement of a tour and new album has got every fan excited. Nathan Douthwaite caught up with Benjamin to discuss the tour and what lies ahead for this talented artist.

Nathan: Hi Benjamin.

Benjamin: Hey, you okay?

Nathan: Ye I’m good thanks, how are you?

Benjamin: Not bad at all mate, not bad at all! Sorry let me just take my jacket off

Nathan: No problem, what have you been up to this morning?

Benjamin: Just sat in the garden the weather is gorgeous

Nathan: Oh really? It’s pretty dull here

Benjamin: Where are you like?

Nathan: A place called Middlesbrough, Teesside. 

Benjamin: No way? I know that place, I use to have a girlfriend who lived there, we use to go to Roseberry Topping all the time, its ace.

Nathan: That’s class, not many people know Middlesbrough. But the main point of the day is your second album has finally arrived, I know people can’t wait to hear it but how excited are you for people to hear it?

Benjamin: So so excited, I’m really proud of this album and it’s the best, I love all the songs and I feel like I’m honest with the album. Working with Charlie Andrews on the production has opened doors for the songs to develop and sound as good as they can. I wouldn’t be releasing it if I didn’t think it was the best it could be and right now is the right time.

Nathan: That’s made me more excited for the album! Have you got any new inspirations on it?

Benjamin: Haha, the album is sonically more 3-D, the production the dynamics. I feel like I’m a better singer and better guitar player than I was when I released my debut, there’s a spiritual connection to the songs, I care about them. It’s the right time to release it. I’m not saying I did it alone, I still need guidance, and everyone makes mistakes of course, everyone’s only human.

Nathan: Obviously you’ll be playing the album on your tour, how are you feeling about being on tour again?

Benjamin: I honestly can’t wait, touring was my home for years and then I went back to the studio back to writing. But there’s a romance that comes with touring, you meet some great people and end up working with so many different musicians.

Nathan: That’s great to hear, you’re returning to your hometown of York on this tour, but will you be taking any home comforts with you for the other dates?

Benjamin: Great question, I think my home comforts for this tour are the personally hand-picked musicians I’ve got supporting me. Music is my home comfort and having artists I’ve heard before and those I haven’t heard supporting me really is my comfort. I know it’s simple to say but ye.

Nathan: I think that’s great answer, the usual answer would just be something like, oh my DVD box set of whatever.

Benjamin: Haha of course! I don’t think I have anything physical, maybe a couple of T-shirts I like, my jeans, boxers oh and I have a few necklaces and bracelets. I suppose as well my best friend is coming on tour with me so that’s a huge boost for me. It’s gonna be great!

Nathan: You Tweeted about playing old and new songs on tour, do you think you will go as old as some of your EP tracks?

Benjamin: Oh definitely, I love this song off my EP [A Million Miles Out] called Maps, I don’t know if you’ve heard it but it’s a great song. Sometimes you feel restrict because if you only have an hour set there’s only so much you can play, but songs will come to me as I travel on the tour.

Nathan: You’re also playing Live at Leeds aren’t you?

Benjamin: Oh yes, that line up is so good, there’s We Are Scientists, Blood Red Shoes and Los Campesinos are there too aren’t they?

Nathan: Ye I believe so!

Benjamin: It’s a f*cking sick line up, there’s a band there called Slow Club there and they are class, I think we’re sharing a stage so I’m so ready for that.

Nathan: I haven’t heard of them but I’ll definitely be checking them out, I’ll see you there! Just to change the subject a bit, you’re signed to Dirty Hit records that must be pretty cool.

Benjamin: It’s amazing, they’re all my family and I love everyone involved, I love all the other bands too and everyone gets on, from Little Comets to The 1975 to Wolf Alice, that Wolf Alice record man, it’s insane! Not to pick favourites because the full record is amazing but the one where Joel steps up to sing, erm, Swallow Tail! That track is something else. 

Nathan: I know I love that album, staying on albums I know Record Store Day is just around the corner, are you a fan of vinyl records?

Benjamin: I am a fan of vinyl but I’ve never had a vinyl player, I like to have the digital version of songs because it’s easier for me. I can have songs on the go and make playlists with my favourite tracks on. I do own some records though. My ex-girlfriend got me Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen on vinyl and that was amazing because it’s my favourite record. My family always give me vinyls because it’s one of those things people just do. I have a great PJ Harvey one and of course the novelty ones like Kevin Keagan’s Christmas song.

Nathan: Haha everyone has a few of those! Just to wrap us up I have one last question, what are the two things you’d say to any fan who’s coming to your tour dates or buying your new record?

Benjamin: Another great question, wow, firstly I’d just like to thank you so much for believing in my music, for sharing what I believe in and sharing the music with me. I wish I could thank you all face to face and one day I hope I will be able too.  

Secondly I just want to make sure people remember to support new artists in your city. You’ve got to break the city walls if you know what I mean?

Nathan: No could you elaborate?

Benjamin: Well not just music, you have to support theatre, film, poetry, spoken word, basically all forms of art because we need it in this world.

Nathan: I couldn’t agree more, I’m going to use that term [Breaking city walls] from now on, it’s great.

Benjamin: Haha ye man, we’ll have to collaborate on a song together about it!  

Benjamin Francis Leftwich starts his big tour on April 21st. Catch him on any of his dates here.

“After the Rain” is out on 19th August. 

Single Review - Social Room / One More Round

Written by Sal Wilcox

'One more round' is the latest track from Sunderland band Social Room. Having seen the group perform around the North-East; and being wowed by their big powerful sound; I had high expectations for this track.

Unfortunately however, the song was a little underwhelming and rather mediocre. Considering the band is made up of six members, I was expecting a much bigger and interesting sound than what was delivered. Although the song is not 'bad', it's just a bit dull.

The intro is orientated around delicate piano, and although more sounds are added, it doesn't really enhance the song in any way. The guitar is too reserved and the vocals aren't catchy or engaging -  it's very much a filler track. The song could possibly survive in a decent length album or as part of a live set, but it definitely wouldn't be my first choice to release as a single.  

EP Review - Ben James Miller / Until We Are Bones

Written by Adam Gallagher

Ben James Miller, has produced a soothing yet meaningful summery EP 'Until We Are Bones', the cleverly titled EP has three songs based around love, before you turn your nose up at it, we highly recommend you give all three a listen.

The EP is opened with the track 'Honeymoons'. With the upbeat rhythm proved by the drums, instantly I knew I could be sat in the back garden, sunbathing like we all do in Middlesbrough every summer and blasting this outloud, it would be very fitting, but as the song goes on you instantly see that it is a upbeat love song where Ben is pouring his heart out and singing about how grateful he is of the things he has in life.

Ben has slowed the pace down on the second song, 'When We Marry'. I normally aren't a big fan of slow songs, but I've listened to this song a few times now and I've already found myself singing along to parts of the song. It is a fantastically well written song, which when played live I can imagine the crowd getting the chance to sing along with Ben.

The final track of the EP, is 'Little Deaths'. Ben has turned up tempo on this to end with a bang. Showcasing what he is capable of producing with the help of his band, Simon Shaw and Andrew Jones.  His vocals are solid not only in this song but throughout all three songs.

Overall, it is a very solid three tracked EP, which anyone can enjoy listening to. Ben and the guys should be very proud of what they have managed to produced.
 

TOTW - Week 12

Written by Jodie Lynn

This week's track of the week lends it's hand to the good ol' Mr Doherty. With the recent addition of a Newcastle date to his upcoming May tour, I've been furiously bashing (for lack of a better word) Peter's discography. If you like him you'll be fond of his work with the Libs and the Shambles, but his solo album has always had a special place in my heart. There's something magical about it and Last of The English Roses, released as a single March 9, 2009 on Parlophone and produced by Stephen Street (The Smiths, Blur, The Courteeners), gives me a tingle in my bones whenever I hear those opening first few seconds. It's definitely, in my eyes, the most beautiful song Peter has ever created - with the exception of You're My Waterloo. It's poetry. It's mystical. It's bloody brilliant. It makes me want to lie in the middle of a field with butterflies fluttering over me. OK I'm getting carried away, but you get the point. 

There's already been a few comments on whether Peter will actually show up to his gigs in May but I have every faith he will. And I pray he plays Last of The English Roses. Have a listen below, hopefully you'll swoon as much as me. It's either that or you'll think I'm mad. And make sure you listen to the French bit at the end, it may be the best bit!

TOTW - Week 11

Written by Anna McMillan

 

My track of the week this week transported me back to the 80s with the synth-pop stylings of The 1975’s – The Sound.

Released in January, the track reflects their new sound as the boys have embraced their pop side,       incorporating it with their old alternate rock styling by adding electric guitar riffs in the background. 

Just as frontman Matty Healy promised, the track is very up-beat and poppy with just a dash of ‘ear candy’.

I feel like since the band decided to add a little pink to their image, they have adopted a sort of edgy, synthetic pop vibe, making you feel like you’ve time travelled to the 80s.


If it’s not the music, it’s the eye shadow that Healy has decided to rock in their past couple of videos. 

Not wanting to break tradition of intellectually long lyrics, I found myself having to do the standard humming along until you find a bit of the song you can finally understand and sing along to thing.

After all, trying to say never mind sing ‘A sycophantic, prophetic, Socratic junkie wannabe’ is hard enough.

The 1975 please write easier lyrics for me to sing! 

TOTW - Week 10

Written by Nathan Douthwaite



For this week’s TOTW I have taken us back to 1994, with a track taken from the 1994 album “Another Thought” by Arthur Russell.


The song I have chosen, called “This is How We Walk on the Moon”, was released after Arthur Russell’s death from AIDs in 1992 (Two years before “Another Thought” was released).


TIHWWOTM is a slow paced, solemn song that can touch even the hardest of heartstrings. Russell’s voice croons softly over his cello and creates an ambience unparalleled to anything that is released in modern day music.


The song has an upbeat pace to it, with elements of Russell’s disco work in earlier years. Yet it still holds an element of sadness, whether it was due to Russell knowing he was dying of AIDs or not, the song has an incredible attractiveness.


 Arthur Russell’s work should never be forgotten, even after 24 years of him passing, this song and this album will resonate within musical history forever.


Russell’s work has even influenced indie giants “Foals” and you can tell that on a lot of their work. 
“This is How We Walk on the Moon” is a song everyone should listen too.
 

Gig Preview - Benjamin Francis Leftwich / Cresent, York / 09.05.2016

Written by Nathan Douthwaite

The long anticipated follow up album by singer songwriter Benjamin Francis Leftwich is finally set for release and to mark the announcement he has revealed a string of intimate gigs.

These shows see the artist arriving at York’s venue, The Crescent and it’s going to be a good one. 

Leftwich, whose debut album went on to sell 100,000 copies and over 150 million Spotify plays worldwide, also drew in a range of reviews all hyping up its musical value. Now five years on, his follow up titled “After the Rain” is set for release on August 19th.

 

Dirty Hit records, who have had massive success with The 1975 and Wolf Alice, will be releasing his second LP too.

Moving onto The Crescent gig, it will be no surprise if Leftwich plays tracks from “Last Smoke Before the Snowstorm” and his forthcoming album.

With him just releasing “Tilikum” as a new single, it’s clear that the tragic loss of Leftwich’s father and his one true inspiration - can be heard buried deep in the foundations of this song. 

The track is the album’s opener and was written in the living room opposite his father’s old house. The song went on to feed to energy to create “After the Rain.”

Now returning to his home town for a special gig, the future is looking good for this young artist.
Catch Benjamin Francis Leftwich at The York Crescent – May 9th. 

Stockton Calling 2016 : Who To Watch (Part 2)

Written by Katie Cain

If you’re heading down to Stockton Calling in a couple of weeks time, you’re probably wondering who on earth to prioritise out of a whopping 60+ bands and artists.

Well I’ve compiled a list of another 3 incredibly talented recommendations who are guaranteed not to disappoint on the 26th March 2016, that you and your friends should definitely not miss.

Plaza (5pm / Musiclounge stage)

First of all, we definitely recommend checking out new line up additions; Plaza. The Hartlepool band are becoming increasingly popular and are fresh off a 5 date UK tour. With a newly released single, Totem following a 2015 release of 5 original songs, the band are packed with experience and are followed intently to each gig by a well earned bunch of fans. The 4 piece, playing the Musiclounge stage this year, are guaranteed to be incredibly prosperous in the near future so checking them out in such an intimate venue is a must.

Major Matilda (3.45pm / The Sun Inn stage)

I also encouraged you to check out Major Matilda, previously known as Nocturnal Dictionary. The band hail from Whitby and are fresh from releasing their first album with an impressive discography to experiment and display. Playing The Sun Inn stage, the group are simply incredible and never fail to put on an exceptional live show of interest and expertise. The band are no stranger to our North East music scene and are continuously gigging in order to increase their confidence and expertise. A genuine band who are very evidently incredibly talented.

Figmennt (2pm / Musiclounge stage)

Lastly, we recommend Figmennt, the hugely popular and well loved Teesside shoe gaze 4 piece. Also playing the Musiclounge stage on the 26th, the band have already been taking the year, and the North East music scene, by storm with their unique and stylistic gig performances that they’ve displayed across the region. With new recording taking place mid March, the band will be fresh and ready to deliver an exceptional show to really make their mark on Stockton Calling 2016.

Single Review - Coquin Migale / GRINDIE

Written by Nathan Douthwaite

Coquin Migale released their latest single on March 1st. The Newcastle band have gone in heavy on this new song. “GRINDIE” mixes in heavy guitar riffs, with massive drum beats and catchy lyrics, to produce the ultimate rock n’ roll dance track.

The lyrical repetition of “I feel so ashamed” matches the repetition of the guitar riff and creates this effect that you have to sing along too.

The music video, which can be found below, sees the band thrashing their instruments in a dark setting. The only light coming from occasional white illuminations. The close up shots of lead singer and guitarist - Alex Soper add an intimacy to the video, getting you up close and personal with the band.

The reverb and echo used on the vocals adds a spacy effect to the song and makes the vocals sound so distant. It adds a nice contrast between the music and vocals.

The breakdown in the song sounds a little like something you would hear in a Royal Blood track and it helps to build the track up to it’s final stages.

The song ends abruptly after a massive return of the underlying riff that has ran throughout the song.  “GRINDIE” is a three minute guitar fuelled - fast paced delight and a must listen for any fan of rock music. 

Single Review - Esther Turner / Close

Written by Anna McMillan

Halesowen’s very own Esther Turner released her new single ‘Close’ this week and I am yet to get it out of my head.

The indie rock sound of the young singer songwriter creates for a melodic piece.

The track contains strong, prominent vocals expressing the feelings of striving to live the life you want and the lessons you learn along the way. The added keyboard near the end of the track emphasises the serenity of the song.

It is definitely a soulful track which you would find me blasting in the car during drives down country lanes in the summery weather.

With the beautiful vocals from Esther and the repetitive catchy chorus, I can see this track being a huge hit for the young busker from Birmingham.

It’s like Ellie Goulding meets a mix between folk and indie rock.

Single Review - Dalaro / Youth

Written by Sal Wilcox

'Youth' is the latest track from "tequilia and steak" loving Newcastle indie five-piece Dalaro.

The signature hyper active catchiness of the five-piece, has been switched for a more chilled but still very catchy vibe. The track is fuelled by a simple high pitched synth loop, elevated by a blanket of steady percussion, whirring synth textures and a more reserved guitar and bass. The repetitive chorus of "can you give me an ocean" makes the song very upbeat and incredibly easy to sing along to.

The overall sound is more akin to electro-pop than indie, but I'm sure the group have enough edgy t-shirts and denim articles to maintain their indie-rep and fan base.

The song is a solid pop tune and will undoubtedly get crowds dancing and singing along. After seeing the group perform at the 'O2 Academy is 10' gig last October I'm sure the band will continue to excite audiences and perhaps this slight change in sound will assist them in maintaining vitality and variety in their set.

Review - Whirling Dervish / Figmennt, Flowermouth + GURFA / 25.2.2016

Written by Jessica Davies

TSone is known for its cheap drinks and parmos, I certainly wasn’t aware they had live music now? However, Whirling Dervish is an event that bands play on Thursday nights at TSone and I was kinda impressed.

First up was a band called GURFA, a group of young lads who opened with a lively number which caught the audiences attention immediately. Although they lacked confidence at the beginning of the set, they began to relax a bit more towards the end and really gave it their all which showed in their performance. They had a sound similar to bands like peace and a feel of foals, however they added a touch to it to make it their own which I feel makes them appealing to an audience who love this sort of music. At a young age, they still have plenty of time to work on their own sound but they give off good vibes for the future.


Next up was Flowermouth, who were the undeniable triumph of the night. They came out making themselves known by creating lots of noise which the crowd enjoyed. The set had a little something for everyone, and I feel like the whole place left knowing who Flowermouth was. The band performed well giving the audience a great show, and they have a great sound for live music which some modern bands lack. Although this was not the tightest of performances it had a certain special feel that meant it didn’t need to be supremely polished. The set seemed to be over rather fast which suggests I enjoyed it loads and I would definitely go to another gig in the future.


Last up was Figmennt, who have been spreading their sound around the area making themselves known, and its working. The place filled up before their set and they received much appreciation from the supportive audience; The crowd hung on their every note as the ambient noise filled TSone. Already they can boast a loyal fan base and songs that really sound like their own, if things continue the way they are going I expect an even bigger 2016. Set a few minutes aside to give them a listen and they won’t disappoint.

Stockton Calling 2016 : Who To Watch (Part 1)

Written by Adam Gallagher

Redfaces , KU Bar Stage / Time TBC

Another four piece indie, rock and roll band from Sheffield. Some people would say typical and turn their nose up straight away, but that would be very very silly and stupid. I know what you're thinking, Arctic Monkey wannabes. Far from it, they've created their own sound, but if I was to describe it to anyone by using another band, I'd use examples of bands such as the View. After performing at places such as T in The Park in 2015. It only takes a matter of seconds of listening to their music to understand why it would be a big mistake not going to watch them at this year's Stockton Calling.

If you were to mix a country style vocalist with the indie and rock and roll instruments, that is Redfaces. On paper it sounds so weird and I bet you're thinking to yourself, it can't work. I promise you that it does, it' is a fantastic fresh sound.

Alistair James, Room 21 stage / Time TBC

Alistair James is back in the North East!

Some of you may know him as Alistair Sheerin. After spending some quality time in America, Alistair certainly came back home with a bang, performing at such venues as the Townhouse, Middlesbrough in the recently months, armed with a new single, 'Have You Ever Been Low', it's a perfect reason to go and watch him at this year's festival.

This young man will be supported by his full band and we can only begin to imagine the sound they can create after seeing them live at Mixtape. If you are into the soft rock and roll then Alistair is the guy for you! Within his music, you can hear the influenes of Paul Weller, I'd even go as far to say a slight hint of Status Quo.

Coquin Migale, NARC @ The Green Room stage / Time TBC

Alex, Stevie, Jack and Josh, four lads from Newcastle, head to Stockton Calling with guitars, drums and a mic in hand, with the aim to certainly leave their mark on the day.

They are a band that has certainly started 2016 in a very big way. Recently releasing their newest single which is accompanied by a video, 'Grindie'. With the sounds that these guy's produce, it's only a matter of time before they are progressing onto bigger stages.

With their rocky sound and chilling vocals, Coquin Migale are certainly a band we can't wait to go and watch.

TOTW / Week 9

Written by Adam Gallagher

This weeks 'Track of the Week', comes from a band that sadly isn't creating music anymore sadly, Dexters.

Dexters finally said farewell, in what was certainly a short lived music career but it wasn't goodbye, without leaving the fans one last track and step forward 'Nowhere But Home'.

The song is based around how after all the touring and travelling, there certainly isn't anywhere like home. The band certainly did have fantastic memories but through this song, it has given me the impression that they all believe they had taken the band as far as it could have possibly gone.

The track itself has without a doubt left a lasting note on myself. It's so catchy and showcases the talent that was within the band.

Thank you Dexters for the two albums and the ending note that you gave us.

Gig Preview - Fickle Friends / KU Bar, Stockton / 4.3.2016

Written by Adam Gallagher

This Friday sees one of the hottest bands around, Fickle Friends head to one of the best local venue if not the best, KU Bar in Stockton.

After the five piece from Brighton caught the attention of the likes of Zayn Lowe. With their debut single 'SWIM' it was only a matter of time before they found themselves filling venues up and down the country.

Not only have they created a back catalogue of fantastic upbeat, summery feeling songs, they've also created tracks that anyone can listen to no matter what 'genre' they find themselves usually listening to. 'Could Be Wrong', 'For You' and their newest release 'Say No More' are certainly going to get the crowd singing along.

In some venues through out the nation, you get support bands 'just to fill spaces', you never get that at KU. With Middlesbrough's very own disco king's 'Be Quiet, Shout Loud!' opening the evening, skip the pre drinks at home, be smart and head down to KU early to go see a band who always know how to put on a show.

The final support of the evening, comes all the way from sunny Glasgow, Scotland. They go by the name 'Monogram'. They have been developing their sound north of the boarder and we have the pleasure of getting to see how the Scottish duo party and perform.

Overall, it is a very strong line up and I for one am very excited to head down to KU and see what all three bands have to offer.

Adv Tickets - £7 from Sound It Out Records / The Storytellers, Stockton

Single Review - Samantha Durnan / I Was Wrong

Written by Anna McMillan

The North East’s very own Samantha Durnan has released her latest single ‘I Was Wrong,’ and I can confirm there is definitely nothing wrong with this track.

The young singer songwriter is talented beyond her years, with her newest release expressing her old school styling. The countryesque piece is about falling in love and the twists and turns life takes when being in love, having to admit true feelings.

The melodic chorus makes for a catchy sound which I know I won’t be able to get out of my head for a while. It looks like the future is only going to get brighter for the young star and with her sweet, soulful vocals it is no wonder she has already played alongside the likes of Ed Sheeran.

To buy on Itunes go to: https://itun.es/gb/et8xab