Music - The Singles Collection

IndieLondon gleefully checks out the cream of the week's singles. All you have to do is click on the pictures to order them...

MONDAY, APRIL 25

SINGLE OF THE WEEK: HAPPYLIFE – ALIVE: The story behind Happylife’s astonishingly heartfelt single, Alive, is a good one. Having enlisted the skills of Kill 2 This drummer, Steve Rooney, the band recorded a demo version of Alive which immediately caught the attention of legendary US producer, Narada Michael Walden, who wasted no time in contacting the band’s label, Albert Productions, and flew to London on his own expense to meet them. He then promptly hired a string section and produced the track, which is an epic slow-builder that really ought to become one of the anthems of the approaching summer season. Rife with wonderful acoustic guitar riffs, a soaring vocal style, and that string section midway through, the track is a slow-burning ballad that feels as empowering as it does awe-inspiring. It really deserves to be huge, especially given that it contains hints of both Oasis and Coldplay at their most laidback. (Editor’s note: It’s worth noting that Happylife is comprised of Kevin Brown (vocals), Ian Pellman (guitar), Chris Drinkwater (bass) and, of course, the aforementioned Rooney).
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ATHLETE – HALF LIGHT: It was always going to be a tricky thing following up a single as poignant, heartbreaking and memorable as Wires, so Athlete attempt to accomplish this by releasing one of the more upbeat efforts from the latest album, Tourist. The track in question, Half Light, continues to demonstrate the band’s new-found confidence, as the instrumentation feels a lot more varied and the production values far more crisp. The quirky electronica and low-key synths build nicely to a robust, guitar-driven chorus that almost guarantees indie-anthem status in the very near future. Half Light, while not quite as strong a record as Wires, nevertheless proves that Athlete is one of Britain’s most exciting bands of the moment. In the run-up to Coldplay’s new album, it provides everything you could possibly wish for as an indie fan.
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SNOOP DOGG feat JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE – SIGNS: Snoop Dogg returns with Signs, the third track to be taken from his album Rhythm & Gangsta: The Masterpiece. Already a runaway UK radio smash, with a video that has stormed the airplay charts - Signs is one of the funkiest cuts to emerge from the long-player, featuring an x-rated Justin Timberlake chorus as well as Charlie Wilson, of the Gap Band. It follows in the vein of previous Snoop single, Beautiful, with its cool West Coast vibe providing the ideal backing for Snoop’s famously laconic flow and is certain to go down a storm on the dance-floors of this summer’s season. It is probably going to become a downright essential addition to any party album too. What with Drop It Like’s It’s Hot already providing Snoop with a massive hit, expect Signs to match it every step of the way.
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ROBERT PLANT – SHINE IT ALL AROUND: Robert Plant heralds the arrival of his keenly-anticipated new album, Mighty Re-Arranger, with this epic stomper, Shine It All Around. Boasting a commanding and pervading drumbeat set against a temperamental and malignant bassline, the track is an epic slow-builder that also features another strong vocal performance from the living legend (and yes, his primal scream is included during the soaring chorus). If you think Oasis are the be all and end all when it comes to delivering moody, intricately-woven power-chords, then think again. Plant and his band, The Strange Sensation, have delivered a rock track that continues to set the standard for today’s chasing pack – one that isn’t afraid to draw on world music influences while providing a timely reminder of the glory of one of rock’s all-time greats. The new album is equally spellbinding.
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THE TEARS – REFUGEES: Suede fans still lamenting the departure of their favourite band can find solace in The Tears. Yep, as demented as that sounds, former Suede duo Brett Anderson and Bernard Butler unite once again for this Suede-like new single, which emerges as a glorious taster of what to expect from the forthcoming album. Taking that much-loved Suede style (as found in their earliest work), Refugees is a soaring, deeply heartfelt record that’s sure to provoke the obvious comparisons, while delivering the duo a sizeable hit record. Rather than criticising the lack of progression too heavily, it’s best just to sit back and reminisce, safe in the knowledge that Suede may be gone, but they’re clearly not forgotten (hell, even the artwork bears an uncanny resemblance to those days of old).
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KATHRYN WILLIAMS – SHOP WINDOW: Former Mercury Music Prize nominee, Kathryn Williams, delivers the first single from her forthcoming album, Over Fly Over, in the form of the catchy Shop Window. The singer’s vocal style clearly has the classics in sight, conjuring memories of Joni Mitchell, in its subtle, husky delivery. Yet for all of the darkness to be found in some of the lyrics, there is an upbeat energy to the track displayed in the pop innocence of some of the melodies and the Hammond organ, which gets a welcome outing midway through. With songs of this calibre, it’s little wonder to find that the highly-rated singer-songwriter has been praised in the press by the likes of Norah Jones and Dido. Interestingly, the lounge mix of bonus track, Three, will probably provoke comparisons with a certain Norah Jones as well.
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BLOC PARTY – BANQUET: Given the success of former single, So Here We Are, the time seems right for Bloc Party to revisit some of their earlier, less-successful work, with the re-issue of debut single, Banquet. Those expecting a repeat of the So Here We Are formula, however, might be a little surprised, as this is much more edgy and raw in style (it provoked comparisons with the likes of Franz Ferdinand first time around). The track features another blistering vocal turn from lead singer, Kele (who almost sounds gothic), as well as duelling guitars and a trademark urgent drum beat, not to mention plenty of monk-like chants and atmospheric sequences. Whether it’ll achieve the Top 5 status of its illustrious and more accomplished predecessor remains to be seen, but Banquet should provide the new Bloc Party fans among you with plenty to feast on for the time being!
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DESTINY’S CHILD – GIRL: Having delivered two sweaty dance anthems from their Destiny Fulfilled album, Destiny’s Child take the energy levels down a notch with Girl, a truly sultry R&B number that continues to showcase the strengths of the trio. Featuring a nice guitar loop running throughout, not to mention some deeply soulful vocal turns from each of Beyonce, Michelle and Kelly, this is sure to be another massive hit for the album, which quite possibly rates as the best work of their careers so far. The ladies will love the sentiments, while everyone should also make a point of checking out the Sex In The City themed video, which finds the girls in typically sultry pose.
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ROOSTER – YOU’RE SO RIGHT FOR ME: Another of those hotly-tipped British bands, Rooster are said to combine the ‘swagger of Oasis with Aerosmith riffs', yet both seem to be lacking from this so-so follow-up to former single, Come Get Some. There’s certainly no doubting the band’s ability to deliver some good old bluesy-rock in a mainstream style but they lack the arrogance of an Oasis, or the grandstanding stadium-sound of Aerosmith. Still, when compared to the churlish likes of McFly and other boy-based pop-rock bands, West London’s Rooster fare much better, while in Nick Atkinson's vocals, they appear to have a talented lead singer. More chart-orientated than rock-based, this will struggle to find appeal with the Xfm crowd, but is likely to find a niche for itself among Radio 1 listeners and Capital FM followers seeking something a little bit different from pop pap.
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CLOR– LOVE AND PAIN: Favourites among the Xfm crowd, as well as the likes of Radio 1’s Zane Lowe, Clore deliver electro-rock with a zany edge that’s certainly worth checking out for anyone who can’t get enough of the sound of the 80s. Love and Pain features some excellent lyrics, set against some decidedly retro-styled pulses and bleeps, as well as the all-important jangling guitars. It takes a little while to get used to but there’s no doubting it has an infectious quality that is only underlined by the wonderfully offbeat lyrical style. Little wonder it’s being hailed as both ‘angular art-rock’ and wonderfully eccentric in certain quarters.
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ANTHONY & THE JOHNSONS – HOPE THERE’S SOMEONE: Undoubtedly a class act, given that he’s Lou Reed’s favourite singer, and has attracted the talented likes of Rufus Wainwright and Devendra Banhart to his album, Anthony & The Johnsons is also an acquired taste, given the epic nature of many of his tracks. Hope There’s Someone is a classic slow-builder, an aching but uplifting record, that showcases the artist as his most raw and open. Having mesmerised audiences with his vocal prowess at Queen Elizabeth Hall earlier this month, it’s safe to say that Anthony & The Johnsons will quickly amass a strong following. Bonus track, Frankenstein, especially hits home with a resonance that’s difficult to find in a lot of modern music (particularly that which resides in the charts). Well worth checking out if you fancy something a little different and adult in its approach.

JOHNNY PANIC – MINORITY OF ONE: With their long-awaited debut album, The Violent Dazzling, set to be released on May 9, through Barking Dog Records, the time seems perfect for Johnny Panic to release the album’s opening salvo, the riotous Minority of One. A fist-in-the-air anthem in true punk-fuelled fashion, the track contains some catchy hooks and astute lyrical observations that mark the band out as one to watch. Metal Hammer have already predicted that ‘Johnny Panic are ready to cause a riot’, while The Fly credited the band with ‘having a knack for creating songs that take up residence in your skull’. Too much exposure might leave some long-term damaging, given the band’s fire, but there’s no denying that they are one of the better new acts to emerge on the punk scene. Minority of One is well worth checking out if you’re into that sort of scene.
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LINDSAY LOHAN – OVER: American teen-movie queen, Lindsay Lohan, samples the music scene with new single, Over, the first track to be lifted from her debut album, Speak. It’s a soaring rock ballad in the style of Avril Lavigne and Ashlee Simpson that has already become a massive hit in America, where the album has already sold in excess of 1.5 million copies. The track is certainly one of the better efforts to emerge from the album, courtesy of a catchy chorus and some fairly jangling guitars, but given that it sounds so much like Lavigne and Simpson, it struggles to maintain an identity of its own and will probably be best served supporting the soundtrack to one of Lohan’s forthcoming movies.
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RAW BUD V RONI SIZE – RISE UP: The Raw Bud anti-mix project sprang into life from a boozy discussion in a South Wales pub that resulted in Raw Bud ‘acquiring’ the master tapes of drum n bass star, Roni Size’s most recent album, Return to V, and latching on to the former single, Rise Up. The result is a blazing punk rock makeover that might just appeal to both the drum ‘n bass and hard rock crowd, given its frenetic, no-holds barred style and plethora of remixes. In truth, it sounds like something that might have been concocted after a night out on the booze and feels more underground than mainstream. But those who remain intrigued by the above description, or fans of either artist, will probably want to check it out, given that this first single proper includes the Rise Up original track, a Roni Size cameo in the video, and a Nightbreed drum ‘n bass remix of the anti-mix.
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ANNIE - ALWAYS TOO LATE (Y£$ MIX - DOWNLOAD ONLY): Following the massive critical response to her debut album, Anniemal, Norwegian electro-pop sensation, Annie, returns with an exclusive new free download-only single. Always Too Late has been given a dark disco makeover by hot London production team, Y£$ (who feature members of top remixers Solid Groove/Switch among their ranks) and whose previous credits include production for the likes of Lady Sovereign & M.I.A. Much like the rest of the material on the album, it's a pop-heavy but consistently catchy affair that marks the young Norwegian as a bright new entry onto the bland pop circuit. Fans can check out the single by visiting Annie's website - although they'd better act fast as it's only available for a limited time only. Fans of the album won't be disappointed.
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WINNEBAGO DEAL – DID IT, DONE IT, DOING IT AGAIN (DOWNLOAD-ONLY): Billed as ‘the greatest shit-kicking rock ‘n’ roll duo this grubby island has produced in years’, Winnebago Deal is comprised of Oxford-based duo, Ben Perrier (vocals and guitar) and Ben Thomas (drums). The download-only single, Did It, Done It, Doing It Again clearly takes its cue from some of Queens of the Stone Age’s stronger, hedonistic tendencies, but pales by comparison to emerge as nothing more than a head-banger that pounds unrelentingly at your ear-drums with little mercy for the next door neighbours. It’s a hard-rocker that’s for the die-hards only, and is backed by Fix Me, a Black Flag cover recorded live at Amsterdam’s renowned Melkweg venue with Mondo Generator main-man, Nick Oliveri.
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FREEMASONS – LOVE ON MY MIND: Ex-Phats and Small star, Russell Small, has teamed up with James Wiltshire for this dance-floor filler, Love On My Mind, featuring the vocals of Amanda Wilson, whom the duo discovered in a local karaoke bar. The track features a sample of the old Jackie Moore classic, This Time Baby, which Russell insists he has been wanting to use for years. The result is a generic slab of disco-pop that fails to make any sort of impression whatsoever – as is so often the case with most chart-fixated dance music. It’s geared towards the Saturday night super-club crowds, who will no doubt enjoy its grooves and retro-flashbacks, but aside from a feisty set of vocals from Wilson, and that classic sample, it’s a tired retread of countless other modern dance anthems. Enough already, please!
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MONDAY, APRIL 18

EDITORS – MUNICH: Having impressed greatly with their debut single, Bullets, Birmingham based indie/rock outfit, Editors, return with another eye-catching effort that capably puts them on the map. The infectious guitar riffs are a particularly strong feature of both singles so far, conjuring easy comparisons with both the guitar and vocal style of New York’s The Bravery, while also keeping sight of its British roots. It’s a bit darker than most indie fare, yet this only makes it more note-worthy, making Editors well worth writing about when dishing out praise for new bands this year.
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CAESARS – JERK IT OUT: Everyone must have heard Caesars’ catchy Jerk It Out by now. Not only is it a re-release, but it is also currently being used in the high profile TV and cinema campaign for Apple’s new iPod Shuffle, as well as forming the soundtrack for the Fifa 2004 PlayStation series. Its success, while belated, is richly deserved, given the way it combines punchy, 60's flavoured slabs of scuzzy guitars and Inspiral Carpets-style organs with an alluring vocal style and sing-along chorus. It has an energy that’s hard to ignore – it’s just a shame that it took two years for the record-buying masses to take notice. For the record, Caesars are a Swedish based outfit and Jerk It Out is taken, originally, from the 2003 album, 39 Minutes Of Bliss (In An Otherwise Meaningless World). That’s worth a listen too!
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HARD-FI – TIED UP, TOO TIGHT: Hard-Fi describe themselves as the products of their west London environment. Former single, Cash Machine, was a perky and perceptive tale of urban life, while its follow-up, Tied Up Too Tight, is all about the desire to escape the mundanity of hometown boredom – something the band look set to have little problem in achieving! Radio 1’s Zane Lowe has already tagged the track the ‘hottest record in the world’ and it certainly serves as a worthy follow-up to Cash Machine, hinting at a more epic scope to the band’s songwriting, while keeping its roots firmly in what they know. The single comes backed with two tracks that further showcase the wide spectrum of the band’s influences. The politically-motivated, call and response swagger of Middle Eastern Holiday is taken from the band’s self-financed and ultra-rare mini album, Stars of CCTV (now going on Ebay for over £50), while their cover of the White Stripes’ Seven Nation Army sees Hard-Fi putting their own, unique perspective on a modern classic.
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NINE INCH NAILS – THE HAND THAT FEEDS: After a five-year absence, Nine Inch Nails return with a suitably ferocious comeback single, The Hand That Feeds. Fuelled by their trademark wall of guitar riffs and dark, melodious industrial beats, the track provides a suitably angry vocal workout for Trent Reznor, who shows that he has lost none of his fire or passion for his craft. The Hand That Feeds is undoubtedly Nine Inch Nails at their finest and most commercially accessible, providing a tantalising insight into the sort of quality we can expect to hear from the eagerly-anticipated long-player, White Teeth. It is top stuff from one of the most influential bands of the past few years – rockers will love it.
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MOVING UNITS – BETWEEN US & THEM: L.A.-based trio, Moving Units, deliver another top single from their excellent debut album, Dangerous Dreams, in the form of the lively anthem, Between Us & Them. The track recalls the jagged guitar riffs of Franz Ferdinand and The Killers, set against the distinct vocals of lead singer, Blake Miller, and is an excellent showcase of what to expect from the long-player, which took two long years to develop. Indeed, it is a feature of the album that it oozes some fairly ferocious melodies, all driven by Chris Hathwell's unrelenting drums, which are gleefully in abundance here. Moving Units is another American act that is well worth checking out. Indeed, if you’re a fan of the sound of New York and The Bravery in particular, then this lot might just provide the West Coast’s equivalent.
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THEE UNSTRUNG – PSYCHO: With an average age of 19, Thee Unstrung are a working class, four-piece rock ‘n’ roll band with plenty of youthful swagger, attitude and songs to match. New single, Psycho, is delivered in the caustic speed-driven style that made the Hamburg era Beatles so memorable, complete with edgy guitars, a catchy chorus (‘she was a psycho, oh oh oh’) and plenty of energy. Says Ben Bailey, of Thee Unstrung: “All our songs are about growing up in London and its free spirit. I’m quite up for that spirit, it’s all about freedom of speech and liberty.” Needless to say, Thee Unstrung’s songs embrace self-doubt, rejection and desperation in a refreshingly unapologetic yet upbeat fashion. A debut album is on the way, with Phil Brown (Zeppelin and Hendrix) providing engineering duties.
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THE RAKES – RETREAT: Spindly-framed quartet The Rakes are being hailed as a band to rival the likes of The Others and Kaiser Chiefs. Sadly, their records so far have failed to impress this particular reviewer. The politically-charged Stasbourg sounded pretty similar to numerous other London-based bands of the moment, while current single, Retreat, encapsulates the post-punk rock ‘n’ roll edginess of the likes of Franz Ferdinand, The Others et al without bringing anything new to the mix. The guitars are sharp, the production values strong and the vocals as edgy as you might expect from this sort of thing. But perhaps it takes something a little bit special to set bands like this apart from the masses at the moment. They are in danger of becoming two a penny at the moment. Still, the debut album might be worth checking out.

BODYROCKERS – I LIKE THE WAY: Bodyrockers are Dylan Durns and Kaz James. Both hail from dance backgrounds and both look set to become regular features of the Ibiza scene. New single, I Like The Way, is packed with grungy riffs, post-punk basslines and menacing vocals that look set to help turn it into the sort of hands-in-the-air anthem that is a permanent feature of the current dance scene. Its notable for not relying on the lazy, tired beats of David Morales and co, emerging as a hybrid of both The Chemical Brothers and Daft Punk, with a little bit of Prodigy thrown in. It’s not as good as any of those artists, of course, but at least it breaks from the usual format and bodes well for the forthcoming debut long-player. It already has the backing of Radio 1’s Pete Tong and Jo Whiley, as well as Eric Morillo, who championed it at Pacha in Ibiza last summer.
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MONDAY, APRIL 11

INTERPOL – C’MERE: The Interpol success story shows little sign of abating with this brilliant new single that could well provide the band with their biggest hit yet. Combining some simple but achingly beautiful melodies, with some equally poignant lyrics, the band have crafted a sublime tale of unreciprocated love that exemplifies why so many people – fellow musicians and critics – are so keen to rave about them. The CD also features a couple of B-sides featuring exclusive remixes from each band member, showcasing their diverse and multi-faceted talent. If you haven’t purchased the debut album already, then surely now you must be asking yourself why?
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RAZORLIGHT – SOMEWHERE ELSE: Never ones to rest on their laurels, Razorlight return with a brilliant new single that will serve as a bold and blazing torch between their awesome debut, Up All Night, and the forthcoming second album. Somewhere Else is a confident and stunning statement of intent that expands the Razorlight sound to include piano, melatron and rare instrumentation. Arranged by both Borrell and Burrows, together with Carl and Björn playing an assortment of instruments, the single builds and teases, flitting from wistful to full-on rock. Borrell’s distinctive vocal style remains intact, albeit with an even more mainstream edge, while the catchy chorus seems tailor-made to be enjoyed best when played live. Somewhere Else is a major return from one of the best bands of the moment. On the strength of this, the sophomore album should prove no trouble at all.
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DAFT PUNK – ROBOT ROCK: The first single to emerge from Daft Punk’s third studio album, Human After All, is a suitably trademark effort that looks destined to pack out the dancefloors this Summer. Featuring a typically beefy electro-scale, some heady disco beats, and lashings of guitar, Robot Rock is a body-thumping special that epitomises the darker, angrier tone of the album. The video has also been directed by the Daft Punk duo, Thomas Bangalter and Guy Manuel De Homem Christo, which marks their second foray into directing. As you might expect, it’s robot heavy and distinctly surreal, yet characteristically over the top for this sort of thing. A welcome return, then, that makes a refreshing change from the usual generic dance-floor material.
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SECRET MACHINES – ROAD LEADS WHERE IT’S LED: Sonic terrorists, Secret Machines, return with another blistering new single, in the form of Road Leads Where It’s Led. The band prides itself on its ability to deliver music that's spatial, ambient, organic, ecstatic, hypnotic, and not a little bit psychedelic, citing influences as eclectic as Pink Floyd, Neu, Can, Brian Eno, Tangerine Dream, La Dusseldorf, Neil Young & Crazy Horse, The Band, My Bloody Valentine and Spiritualized. The Road Leads Where It’s Led is an excellent example of this, marrying some Pink Floyd-style guitar riffs with some atmospheric vocals (from Brandon Curtis) and a very catch chorus. Epic in scope, it’s a track that’s sure to make you soar.
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JULIET – AVALON: Welcome to Juliet, a 24-year-old Philadelphia-native who has determined to spice up the dance scene with her unique, alternative dance/electronic pop sound. Avalon is the first track to emerge from the forthcoming long-player, Random Order (out in June) that sees her teaming up with celebrated electronic producer, Stuart Price (aka Jacques Lu Cont/Les Rhthmes Digitales) for a hauntingly hypnotic club record that really does mark the arrival of a major new talent. At a time when most mainstream dance records are bland, repetitive and tedious, Avalon brings something a little bit new to the mix, featuring Juliet’s dusky vocals set over some moody, atmospheric beats. Comparisons with the style of Everything But The Girl wouldn’t be misplaced. Of the remixes, the Fuck Me I’m Famous workout from David Guetta and Joachim Garraud scores very highly, as does the near-obligatory makeover given to the track by Price’s alter-ego, Jacques Lu Cont. A class act.
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HAL – PLAY THE HITS: Now that the sun has started to shine and thoughts turn to the summer, those feel-good tracks are beginning to appear in abundance. They don’t come much more sun-drenched and jovial than Hal’s latest – a hyper-friendly, oh-so happy-go-lucky affair from the Irish quartet that probably rates as their best offering to date. Driven by Dave Allen’s easygoing vocals, together with the harmonies he strikes with brother, Paul, Play The Hits evokes memories of the summery vibe usually reserved for the likes of The Beach Boys and, more lately, The La’s. It is a joyful jolt of new wave euphoria that really deserves to become a big anthem for the band. Roll on the new album (which is out on April 18).
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KINGS OF LEON – KING OF THE RODEO: Kings of Leon return with more of their monster rock riffs in the form of King of the Rodeo, an upbeat track in all senses of the word. Kicking off with a really delicious slide guitar riff, the track capably demonstrates the band’s ability with the guitar, while also showcasing the flaws in some of their vocals. Yet it still rates as one of their better records and a worthy showcase of why they continue to be so hotly-tipped. Live fans of the band will also want to check out the single for the concert versions of Taper Jean Girl and Molly’s Chambers that were recorded live in Belgium.
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THE FEATURES – BLOW IT OUT: ‘If you’re happy and you know it, blow it out’ chant The Features for their latest single, Blow It Out. Fans of sharp-edged guitar pop could well be very happy listening to these Sparta, Tennessee natives, who specialise in delivering speedy records with lush melodies and a great lyrical sensibility that simply makes you want to sing-along. Blow It Out is a strong case in point, a sharp, snappy blast of a single that contains a truly infectious chorus and some wonderful guitar work that should place them on the cusp of guitar-pop fame. And if you want more, then the band’s debut album is out on April 18, entitled Exhibit A.
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MAROON 5 – MUST GET OUT: Must Get Out is yet another slow-burning ballad from Maroon 5 that effortlessly demonstrates the band’s ability to mix rock, soul and pop to swoon-some effect. Similar in vein to former single, She Will Be Loved, this new track has quickly become a favourite among Virgin Radio listeners, where it is probably played the most. The past 12 months have been a very exciting time for the band, who have already enjoyed four top 20 singles, a multi-million selling debut album, three Brit Award nominations and, to cap it all off, a Best New Band award at the 47th Grammys. Must Get Out looks set to continue the band’s success.
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CIARA – 1, 2 STEP: New R&B/crunk sensation, Ciara, releases the hotly-anticipated follow-up to Goodies in the form of 1, 2 Step, featuring Missy Elliott. Thankfully, the second instalment from the talented artist proves that Goodies was no fluke, emerging as a nice follow-up that seems tailor-made to emulate the chart success of her breakthrough number. In truth, the head-nodding bass-line is a little too reminiscent of her work on Goodies, but the electro-influenced beat is a little more pop-driven, while the presence of a certain Missy Elliott is certain to heighten the interest still further. It’s also produced by Jazze Pha, meaning that Ciara is attracting all the right interest in her bid to maintain her status as cRunk’n’B’s newest princess.
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BRAND NEW HEAVIES – SURRENDER: It’s been a while in between singles, but Surrender marks the second offering from the Brand New Heavies first studio album in seven years and is a suitably catchy, soulful effort that makes the best possible use of Nicole Russo’s husky-toned vocals. The Italian singer, a new addition to the Heavies, effortlessly integrates her superb vocals into the vibrant bass-lines, heavy drums, searing trumpets and Spanish guitar that runs rife throughout the track. It’s well worth surrendering to the Brand New Heavies latest album, which continues the funky vibe that has long been associated with them, while also adding a contemporary feel. DJ Bomba, Grant Nelson, TMS and Heavies founder, Andrew Levy, have all created a remix package that takes the whole affair onto the streets and into the clubs.
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THE MODERN – INDUSTRY (DOWNLOAD-ONLY): Welcome to the Noughties equivalent of The Human League! The Modern are a synth-heavy, ultra-glamorous pop act that pride themselves on their theatricality and electro-clash values. Industry is a suitably bouncy pop record, packed with kitsch 80s glamour and a nice male-female vocal trade-off between singers, Emma Cooke, Chi Tudor-Hart and Nic Linn. It’s all very cheesy and certainly retro-flavoured, but there is a guilty pleasure about it that marks The Modern out as a possible band to watch in the future. The track is available through Universal Music’s Digital Services Division as well as iTunes, Napster and the OD2 Network.
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MONDAY, APRIL 4

THE BEES – CHICKEN PAYBACK: At long, long last The Bees release the giddily infectious Chicken Payback from their superb album, Free The Bees. Easily the stand-out effort, the track contains the same sort of feel-good vibe that helped to make their A minha menina such a timeless classic, while also harking back to the infectious melodies of the swinging Sixties and psychedelic Seventies (it could easily grace the soundtrack of an Austin Powers movie). Once heard, we defy you not to be shuffling along to it in record time, while also inventing your own crazy dance routine to accompany it. This, without doubt, should be one of the summer’s biggest anthems. It is, quite simply, superb!
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THE SHORTWAVE SET – IS IT ANY WONDER: A song that is currently being championed by Xfm’s Claire Sturgess is this dreamy number from new outfit, The Shortwave Set. The south London trio have been creating a strong live following over the past few months, where their blend of moody beats and mash-ups cuts quite an infectious following. Is It Any Wonder is, as stated, a dream-like affair, containing some lush, enchanting beats and equally sublime vocals, making it the perfect chill out track of the moment. Think those lazy, hazy days of Spring and Summer and you might have found the perfect accompaniment. The only challenge is in finding it, as The Shortwave Set are currently not listed on Amazon or HMV as having a single out this week. Further details are, however, via the website http://www.theshortwaveset.com
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FEEDER – FEELING A MOMENT: An anthemic second offering from Feeder’s latest album, Pushing The Senses, Feeling A Moment epitomises the new, epic sound of the band and their uncanny knack for delivering upbeat, sweeping records. With its opening ‘woo-hoos’ and melody-laden hooks, it provides a suitably inspiring introduction to the album (where it features as the opening track) as well as a suitably uplifting single in its own right. The guitars are as fresh as ever, while Grant Nicholas’ vocals are typically easygoing. While livelier than former single, Tumble and Fall, the track lacks the early abandon of, say Buck Rogers, but epitomises the more mature direction the band seems to be taking. Needless to say, the album comes highly recommended.
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GARBAGE – WHY DO YOU LOVE ME: Having taken a self-inflicted leave of absence in order to rediscover their creative spark, Garbage return with a newfound energy, as exemplified by the louder guitars and rock-driven style. Why Do You Love Me is an explosive mix of aggressive guitars and feisty vocals, from Shirley Manson, that stands out as a statement of intent for what to expect from the new album, Bleed Like Me. When discussing their recent troubles during a recent Xfm interview, the band admitted that the hiatus proved worthwhile, proving to each member that there was plenty to explore in the new, harder Garbage style. The out and out rock style is more comparable with The Donnas than anything else, while some of the heavier guitar riffs could well make their way onto a Queens of the Stone Age long-player (is it any coincidence that Shirley also guests on the Lullabies to Paralyze LP?).
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KRISTIAN LEONTIOU – FAST CAR (DOWNLOAD-ONLY): You could be forgiven for not realising that this is a cover version, given the uncanny similarity between Leontiou and Tracey Chapman vocally. Yet true to past form, Leontiou’s distinctive vocal style lends itself well to Chapman’s classic, giving it a welcome dust off for a new generation that may not realise it even existed before. The song itself possesses a timeless appeal, born out of the simple but oh-so effective acoustic guitar riff, and the easy, sing-along style. Taken from the highly-acclaimed debut album, Some Day Soon, it’s an effective showcase of Leontiou’s talent as a singer – it’s just a shame that it’s not original. The rest of the material on the album is, however, and is well worth checking out.
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KELIS – IN PUBLIC: Kelis teams up with her husband, Nas, for a suitably sultry homage to making love in public places. One to make the mind boggle, as well as those hips shake, the track comes smothered with all the usual Kelis trappings – namely a distinctly catchy back-beat and those perfectly honed vocals. The presence of Nas in the background only serves to spice things up. The track is produced by Rockwilder and is another excellent example of why last year’s album was so well-received. Given the approaching hot weather, expect it to provide some appropriate bedding music to the approaching summer season.
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ONE SELF - BE YOUR OWN: DJ Vadim returns with a new project, a new ‘super-group’ comprised of himself and MCs Blu Rum 13 and emerging female MC, Yarah Bravo. Their sound has its roots in soul yet is more forward-looking than most, as epitomised by the rhythmically driving Indo-Arabic beat around the vocal trade-offs of Blu Rum and Yarah. The result is a subtle blend of soul and hip-hop that bodes very well indeed for the forthcoming album, Children of Possibility, which is scheduled for release in June. Given that this is also a Ninja Tunes release, the single also comes complete with several mixes, including Amp Fiddler’s edgy P Radio Edit and, most impressively, Amp Fiddler’s Bubz Mix, which tosses some jazzy melodies into the mix and sexes things up considerably. This one’s well worth checking out.
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THE YARDS – THE DEVIL IS ALIVE AND WELL IN DC: The Yards’ balls-out, Bush-baiting The Devil Is Alive And Well And In DC will be available as a download only single from April 4. Taken from the band’s forthcoming self-titled LP, the track is an old-school rocker that screams out the anguish the band must be feeling over US policies. It’s emotive but not preachy, featuring a raw guitar-style, some frantic drumming and a cracking chorus that rams its message home with all the subtlety of one of Bush’s bombing campaigns. The album, which is released on April 18, is a similarly gutsy affair, packed with short, sharp bursts of pure rock. Little wonder, then, that live shows have drawn comparisons with the likes of Buffalo Springfield, Velvet Underground, The Stooges and Soft Machine. 2005 could be a big year for The Yards.
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THE OTHERS - WILLIAM: Xfm Dj, Ian Baker, said that much of The Others’ success came from their ability to embrace their limitations. They know that they’re never going to be considered the world’s best singers or best guitar players, but utilise this fact to their advantage. Hence, they provide a soundtrack for the disenfranchised in many of their singles, with William emerging as possibly their best, most accessible yet. It’s a bittersweet tale of romance that demonstrates both wit and gusto, and which could well win the band a small army of fans to carry with them into the festival season. It’s also worth noting that The Others received the John Peel Award for Musical Innovation at the last NME Awards – so their talents are getting noticed.
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ELTON JOHN – TURN THE LIGHTS OUT WHEN YOU LEAVE: Elton John releases the second single from his self-produced Peach Tree Road LP in the form of the country-tinged ballad, Turn The Lights Out When You Leave, which is currently featured in the Orange TV advert for its new 3G service. It’s a stock Elton John effort, filled with earnest, sincere vocals and that trademark piano, that also embraces the sound of the American South that is to be found throughout the latest album. Given that it’s been granted extra prominence by that advert and the presence of Bernie Taupin as co-collaborator, expect it to go down well with long-time fans of the artist. The video, too, is sure to heighten interest, given that it also features a cameo from Desperate Housewives star, Terri Hatcher.
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KIOSK – ONE DAY I’M GOING TO GO STRATOSPHERIC ON YOU AND, CHANCES ARE, YOU’LL THANK ME FOR IT: Kiosk’s debut EP is notable for one thing - attempting to deliver the longest song title in recent memory (see above). Sadly, that’s the only thing that’s really memorable about it. Otherwise, it’s a hard-rocking, in yer face affair designed to showcase the unbridled enthusiasm of the five-piece from London. Krissie Nicolson’s vocals aren’t particularly special, however, and the guitars of Donald Ross Skinner are more geared to thrashing than delivering anything of any note. As you may have guessed, Stratospheric is a loud affair that does very little to suggest the band has anything to offer other than head-banging live performances. Only the slightly more restrained Daylight Robbery makes any sort of impression, hinting at a more refined style that could actually serve them far better in the long-run.
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