Browsing Tag

fleetwood mac

Danielle Dennis glammed up blues rock with her latest hit, Fool’s Gold

Posted on 10 August 2024

With her latest single, Fool’s Gold, the rising-through-the-industry-ranks rock phenomenon, Danielle Dennis, proved that when it comes to emotional labour for those with an aversion to accountability, a woman’s work is never done.

If the indomitably raw edge of Hannah Wicklund met the creative conjurings of Stevie Nicks, the meeting point would be the affecting high-octane alchemy in Dennis’ scintillating sonic signature which ensures the singer-songwriter’s ink goes beyond skin deep and permeates the soul.

The San Francisco-born, New Orleans-based artist and producer unequivocally evinced that all of the best people would have been burnt at the stake for Witchcraft in the days of Salem; what she manifested in Fool’s Gold is almost beyond the realms of tangible comprehension.

If you can’t get enough of Fool’s Gold, pin her to your radar and await her forthcoming debut EP which will span all her influences through an amalgamation of gritty blues rock, synth-heavy pop, organic folk, and vibey trip-hop.

Fool’s Gold will be available to stream on all major platforms, including SoundCloud, on August 9th.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Melbourne’s Emma Burt gave a fresh take on heartache in her country-pop debut, 10 Years

Posted on 22 July 2024

Emma Burt’s debut single, 10 Years, brought country-pop right up to speed with contemporary trends while preserving the rich legacy by blending timeless musical elements with a cultivated modern twist Hit play, sink into the vibrant pop-rock progressions, and a panorama of heartache will manifest before you. The euphonic guitars and classic pop piano keys introduce a spectrum of colours and emotions, echoing the freedom and spirit reminiscent of Stevie Nicks, which also filters through Emma’s naturally impactful vocal tone.

The melody, rich with the alchemy one might nod to Fleetwood Mac for inspiring, arrests from the first note in the exposition of how time is also lost with love when the door on a relationship closes. Reflecting on a sharp shock to the system when a decade-long relationship diminished, Emma Burt became a vessel of consolation for anyone who has felt a similar sting. Echoes of resilience reverberate through the release, marking it as an anthem for the heartbroken who are ready to move on.

After setting the bar so high with the catchy refrain and lyrical depth in 10 Years, Burt’s trajectory through the industry is one to watch closely.

10 Years was officially released on June 21; stream the single on Spotify now and follow Emma Burt on Facebook.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Robert John Hanson is affectingly arcane in his latest single, Blown Away, ft Stephanie Lottridge

Posted on 17 December 2023

Tissues at the ready for Robert John Hanson’s new single, Blown Away, which melodically unravels as a poignant and intricately crafted piece that resonates with depth of emotion and musical sophistication.

Born in the same city that birthed The Beatles, Hanson’s British roots are palpable in this track, which is tinged with the intimate storytelling reminiscent of Cat Stevens’ Father and Son and magnetised by the melodic allure of ABBA, all wrapped in an 80s-inspired production. Blown Away is a masterful blend of influences, carrying the arcane charm of Fleetwood Mac while maintaining a unique identity.

The mournful thematic elements of the song are delivered with a raw honesty that strikes a chord with the listener. Stephanie Lottridge’s rich and emotive vocals weave through the melody, capturing the melancholy and introspection of the lyrics which contend with the loss of dreams and monotony of reality. This depth is a hallmark of Hanson’s work, as seen in his previous album, The Bitter Suite, and continues to be a compelling aspect of his music.

As we anticipate his upcoming album, Sessions, this single stands as a powerful preview of what’s to come from the talented artist.

Blown Away breezed onto the airwaves on the 20th of October. Stream it on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

The Artistic Evolution: Embracing Change in Music

Posted on 9 December 2023
Evolution

In the ever-evolving landscape of music, change is not just inevitable but essential. The journey of an artist is marked by an incessant quest for creativity and innovation. As we delve into the stories of bands like PJ Harvey, Radiohead, Beastie Boys, Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, and Fleetwood Mac, we uncover a shared narrative of transformation. These artists, once confined to their original sounds, dared to venture into uncharted territories, thereby cementing their places in the annals of music history.

The concept of ‘selling out’ is often debated in the music industry. When artists deviate from their original sound, they are often accused of abandoning their roots for commercial success. While it may be the case that record labels push artists in different directions to maximise the profits banked by the oligarchs, it is ludicrous that independent and up-and-coming artists are also greeted by the same accusation. Especially if they have complete creative freedom over what they innovate and orchestrate.

Any real music fan will be aware of how difficult it can be for independent artists to create a comfortable living without seeking other means of income. Just take a recent interview with Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs in the Guardian on how their fans are amazed to hear that they are back in the office after playing shows and they have been fired for taking time off for touring. It is time for music fans to gain perspective and view transformations as acts of autonomous expression, where independent artists exercise their creative freedom to explore and grow, rather than conforming to external expectations.

If you have been caught between feeling compelled to replicate your earlier material and daring to metamorph your sonic signature for your next releases, this article, which demonstrates the detrimental nature of assimilating your older material out of obligation, may give you a clearer view of which avenue to take your future releases.

Loyalty vs Innovation

The music industry often presents a dichotomy: remain loyal to your original sound or innovate and risk alienating your fan base. This dilemma is particularly poignant in the cases of bands like Radiohead and Fleetwood Mac, who dramatically altered their musical directions. Radiohead’s shift from the grunge-inspired “Pablo Honey” to the experimental sounds of “Kid A” and Fleetwood Mac’s evolution from blues-rock to the pop-rock anthems of “Rumours” are testaments to the rewards of embracing change. Their success stories challenge the notion that loyalty to one’s original sound is the only path to enduring relevance.

The Adage “If It Isn’t Broken, Don’t Fix It” Doesn’t Apply to Art

In the realm of art and music, stagnation is akin to regression. The musical journeys of PJ Harvey and Depeche Mode provide inexplicable examples. Harvey’s transition from bluesy punk-rock to a more accessible indie-rock style, and Depeche Mode’s evolution from upbeat synth-pop to a darker, more atmospheric sound, demonstrate the artistic necessity of breaking free from the ‘if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it’ mindset. Their willingness to reinvent themselves not only kept their music relevant but also allowed them to explore new depths of their artistic potential.

The Muse Isn’t Always Found in Chartered Territory

Exploration beyond familiar boundaries often leads to the discovery of a muse that redefines an artist’s work. The Beastie Boys’ transformation from a hardcore punk band to hip-hop icons and Nine Inch Nails’ journey from synthpop to industrial music highlight the importance of seeking inspiration beyond the comfort zone. These shifts not only revolutionized their respective genres but also opened up new avenues for creative expression.

New Material Doesn’t Obsolete the Old

A common fear among artists is that their new work might overshadow or invalidate their previous creations. However, the evolution of these bands shows that new material can coexist with and even enhance the appreciation of their earlier works. The new sounds do not erase the old; instead, they add layers to the artists’ narratives, enriching their musical legacies. You may receive backlash from your fans who find a sense of pride in saying that they have been following you from the start and have grown accustomed to a certain style, but you can’t please everyone’s subjective view, attempting to do so will only serve as an inhibitor to your creativity. That’s the same creativity that drew them to you in the first place.

How Fans Can Decree Music Is ‘Terrible’ When It Is Made with the Same Talent That Produced the Art They Fawn Over

The reaction of fans to an artist’s evolution can be complex. While some embrace the change, others may be quick to criticise, forgetting that the talent and creativity that endeared them to the artist in the first place are still at play. It’s crucial to recognise that the same spark of genius that created the beloved early works is driving these new explorations, even if they take a different form.

Conclusion

The stories of these iconic bands serve as a powerful reminder to musicians and artists everywhere: the pursuit of creative evolution is not just a right, but a responsibility. Embracing change, exploring new horizons, and challenging the status quo are what keep the flames of creativity burning. As artists and fans alike, we should celebrate this journey of evolution, for it is in these changes that the true essence of art is found.

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If you have a brand-new sound you want to showcase, submit your music today to see your music featured on our top 10 UK music blog.

Article by Amelia Vandergast

Rumours have it the sandman entered Nick Cody’s cover of ‘Dreams’

Posted on 25 August 2023
https://soundcloud.com/nickcody1/dreams-for-covers-ep/s-Au2cg99ENJe?si=264125480ef946e897df8b29f6e3ec3a&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

UK singer-songwriter Nick Cody serenaded the iconic single, Dreams, by Fleetwood Mac in his latest release, featuring Towse, Corwin Zekley, and Harry Orme.

The single may only comprise accordant timbres from a resonator guitar, violin strings and dualistic harmonies, but under Cody’s tender duress, the cover became infinitely more than the sum of all parts as Rumours was melodically resurrected as a more intimate serenade.

After releasing five albums under different guises and in other ensembles, Cody has turned his talents to producing a forthcoming mini cover album featuring seminal singles from across the decades, with a little help from revered international artists. If the other fixtures on the mini album carry an ounce of the soul-stirringly sweet beguile of Dreams, Nick Cody will be the orchestrator of one of the most seminal albums of 2023.

Dreams will officially drop on the 25th of August; hear it on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Interview: David Deutsch shows us where the shine through the light on Prism

Posted on 13 February 2023

With loads of experience that can’t ever be bought, David Deutsch opens up the door and shows us deep emotions through his eyes. Packed with quality stories and information to ponder over a cuppa tea, this is authenticity at its best from a 90’s soul who appreciates so many genres of music.

Hello there David. Thanks so much for your time. How have you been and please tell us about how your music career started?

David Deutsch: Hi! Thanks so much for having me, I appreciate it. I’m doing really, really well! I feel like my music career started all the way back when I was really young, like 3 or 4, when I was begging my parents for a piano. I immediately started lessons, and writing, and then from there started playing in bands when I was 12, playing weekly gigs at clubs, bars, festivals, and venues since I was 14, and then going to school, touring the world, eventually moving all around and landing in Los Angeles.

Please tell us more about your new release and the process?

David Deutsch: Prism, is an album I feel like I’ve been writing my entire life. I’ve been trying to live through all of these experiences, moments, memories, and relationships just to be able to write this music. Each track on the album is an incredibly deep and emotional interpretation of life.

Free Shavocado is more or less a deep dive introspection on what it means to experience happiness and joy.

As The Wind Blows is a song that represents standing and being still in a time when it feels like the whole world around you is constantly moving at an incredible pace.

Iceland represents the thoughts, feelings, emotions, and tremendous amount of personal growth and realization that occurred while on my solo travels there.

Alone is a window into my own interpretation of what it feels like to be alone, but not lonely all the time. It also is a reflection on our time spent indoors during Covid, where at the end of the track there is a huge crescendo to a jarring climax, that represents just simply wanting to scream because I felt so isolated and helpless during quarantine.

I Knew You is a track meant to be a reflection on knowing who you were in the past, to now knowing who you are in the present. It signifies all of the growth and effort it takes to better yourself, while also remaining true to who you have known yourself to always be.

If a new musician came up to you and asked for some advice on how to navigate these choppy waters, what would you say?

David Deutsch: Quite simply, be as authentic as you possibly can. There will always be someone better at music than you, but no one will ever be better at being you, than you. So be the best version, and most authentic You, you can be.

How would you describe your music style?

David Deutsch: Hmm this is a very tough one. I’ve been fortunate enough to be influenced by such a wide variety of genres and musicians. I’d say my sound is an emotional rollercoaster with hints of live instruments blended with lots and lots of synths and sound-designed elements. My music leans more on the cinematic, storytelling aspect because I believe that every song needs to move you, and needs to impact you emotionally. It’s be like if Jacob Collier, Pat Metheny, Tennyson, and Skrillex all had one baby.

If animals could play music, who would be better at playing guitar, cats or dogs?

David Deutsch: Hmmm. I think dogs would be your go to guitar playing friend at parties. Someone who knows songs, can jam, is fun to hang around with, but not necessarily the greatest artist or musician. And I think cats would be more niched, specialized, and unique creative individualists on the guitar.

What kind of music did you grow up with?

David Deutsch: Ooof, such a loaded question. Literally everything. I was playing and listening to classical music since 3, studied jazz in high school and college, film music, 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s music. I grew up in the 90s, so all punk post-pop sounds, tons of folk from my parents, lots of Stevie Wonder, EWF, Fleetwood Mac, honestly the list is endless.

Last, what are your goals for the rest of the year?

David Deutsch: This year I am focused on releasing more emotionally driven music. I have a couple more albums ready to release. I’m working with a couple artists, producing lots of music, and still scoring films. Looking forward to a very creative, collaborative, and energetically positive 2023.

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Listen up on Spotify. See more vibes on IG.

Interview by Llewelyn Screen

The Kleyla Family Band – Cursed: Spellbindingly Soul-Laden 70s-Inspired Pop Rock

Posted on 5 November 2020

The Kleyla Family Band – three siblings, one in-law, and ‘one friend’ – hail from Providence, Rhode Island; “Cursed” is a beautiful mix of classic rock, seventies country-influenced pop, and bluesy distorted guitar hooks, all underpinning the stunning, statuesque vocals of classically trained soprano Katie Klayla.

Scorching blues-rock guitar parts, searing vocal harmonies, and a rhythm section fully in the pocket, “Cursed” is equal parts Fleetwood Mac, Santana, Carole King, and Alison Krauss, at once modern and classic, soulful, heartfelt, and rocking.

Hear “Cursed” on Spotify; check out the Kleyla Family Band here.

Review by Alex Holmes

The Guest Room – Bad Days: Sunny & Suave New-Soul

Posted on 30 December 2019

The Guest Room are here with a singer that carries a wonderfully sweet voice, a drummer that hits his snare drum according to the rhythm of your heartbeat, and all the other lads that I’m sure they all are superior players of their instruments. They come with their new tune called “Bad Days” to draw a smile on your face, and they’re doing so with an eclectic new-soul sound.

I’ve mentioned this already, their female lead singer’s voice is splendid. It is more like chunks of ethereal caress that she exhales with every syllable, aimed for your inner core. That surely doesn’t aim to take anything away from the rest of the band, as the songwriting excellence that they present on this song is overly satisfying, at the very least. “Bad Days” with its transitions and steady emotional flow, it’s a total must-listen for people that get down with the lounge and new-soul side of music.

Hiatus Kaiyote, Fleetwood Mac & Vulfpeck are some of their influences, according to them. I say that they are also inspired, not simply influenced, which is a big deal. Give “Bad Days” a listen here

Review by Nektarios Oikonomakis

A&R Factory Present: Miccoli

Posted on 3 March 2017

Birmingham three-piece, Miccoli are set to release their new single on on the 3RD of March 2017.

‘Idle Stranger’, the follow-up to last year’s ‘Silent’ EP, was self-produced and recorded at Clarion Studios in Penang off the coast of Malaysia. Available to download from all the major outlets, the track is a near perfect piece of infectious Indie Pop which completely encapsulates the band’s vocal harmonies and ear for a catchy tune. The first indication of what to expect from the eagerly awaited debut album, the new single is accompanied by a stunning video filmed in Venice and directed by up and coming photographer Valentio McKenzie.

After spending most of their childhood studying and making music, twin brothers Adriano (vocal and acoustic/electric guitar) and Alessandro (piano, vocal and acoustic guitar) teamed up with their younger sister Francesca (vocal, piano and harmonica) and decided to form the band a few years ago.  Taking inspiration from the likes of Simon and Garfunkel, The Police, Crosby Stills And Nash, Fleetwood Mac and the classic hits of Motown, the three siblings set about crafting their own blend of haunting, melodic and eclectic sounds to great effect.

Miccoli has since toured extensively throughout Europe and America; hanging out with Motley Crue along the way and have recently performed at the Wireless Festival in Hyde Park. Previous singles have attracted the attention of public and critics alike and have seen them feature on American, British and Asian television and pick up airplay on national and regional BBC radio as well as Internet and college stations across the board.

Having spent the last year in the studio, the band are now ready to set out on the road again and perform the songs that will make up the forthcoming debut album. In what promises to be a busy and exciting year ahead, they will announce live dates in the very near future.

A&R Factory Present: Mali

Posted on 3 February 2017

Mali is the alias of Maalavika Manoj, independent folk and country singer/songwriter.

Having recently shifted from Chennai to Bay city, Mali is currently collaborating with some of the independent scene’s biggest artists, all while trying to find her own sound and inspiration for her new material.

Mali has gone on to perform with some of the biggest artists from the independent scene in India, including Sapta, Dharavi Rocks, Tejas and has collaborated with Dualist Inquiry.

She has performed at the biggest venues across India and is now looking to put down her debut effort in Bombay this year.

Find out more on Mali here