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MUSIC
This issue’s music selection has been reviewed by Francis Brown of www.newsoundwales.co.uk.
New Sound Wales’ website will keep you up to date with everything you need to know if you live in Wales and are passionate about music.
Their aim is to:
■ Keep you up to date with new bands and performers that are emerging from Wales and beyond.
■ Recommend new CD’s and music downloads.
■ Let you know which Welsh gigs are coming up in the months ahead.
If you like acoustic, folk and alternative music, www.newsoundwales.co.uk is the place to bookmark and check on a regular basis.
New Sound Wales are keen to hear what you think about music in Wales, what bands you’re listening to and who you would like to see playing in Wales. |
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BOB DYLAN
Tell Tale Signs
A must for the Dylan collector comprising live tracks, alternative/unreleased studio recordings. The standout tracks are the majestic ‘Red River Shore’ and ‘Dreamin’ of You’ with the alternative ‘Most of the time’ already sounding like a lost Dylan classic.
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FRIENDLY FIRES
Friendly Fires
Debut CD influenced by The Rapture/DFA and at times perilously close to Talking Heads. Promising, but sounds like a band trying too hard. Standout tracks ‘Paris’ & ‘Jump in the Pool’ are full of great hooks and definitely Radio (6) friendly.
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GLASVEGAS
Glasvegas
As if Phil Spector had produced the Jesus & Mary Chain with lyrical help from Irvine Welsh. This is bleak and dark but sounds fantastic. Not an easy listen, but it is destined to be a future classic.
Vale Life recommended ★★★★★
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LYKKI LI
Youth Novels
Upbeat, catchy and refreshingly original - right on the money. Her strong Swedish accent may not be to everyone’s taste but I found it ultimately endearing. The CD is good value with 14 tracks. On the whole me Lykki.
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SWEET BABOO
Mighty Baboo
This should see Sweet Baboo become a major player in the Welsh musical landscape. With self-deprecating charm, a distinctive voice and great melodies he draws you in and makes you listen intently. He is childlike, but never childish. Welsh CD of 2008?
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THE PETH
Golden Mile
This could have been a disaster. However, it is a great collection of songs with excellent production. Rhys Ifans isn’t the best singer in the world, but he is a fantastic actor and plays the part of a rock star to perfection.
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LADYHAWKE
Ladyhawke
Debut CD from New Zealands indie pop sensation. More hooks than a fishing tackle shop - this is faultless. ‘Dusk till Dawn’ and ‘Paris is Burning’ deserved to be the soundtrack to the Summer. Definitely one to watch for 2009.
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THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM
The 59 Sound
This American punk rock band from New Brunswick, New Jersey is tipped to break through this year in the UK and if you like your music Springsteenesque with a dash of Tom Petty then this is for you. There is not a bad track on the album!
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THE ALIENS
Luna
This is a disappointment. Its one thing being ‘inspired’ by your heroes (Brian Wilson, Pink Floyd etc) but at times they sound more like a tribute band. The Aliens need to find their own voice to become truly great.
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EUGENE McGUINNESS
Eugene McGuinness
Being marketed as his debut release despite last year’s promising ‘Early Learnings’ CD, Eugene McGuinness is definitely a major talent in the making. Classic British indie music in the tradition of Blur. Definitely one to see at this year’s SWN Festival in November.
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