contents 4- 9 0s rock 101 - 199
26 -2 7 it the red jumpsu apparatus
10 -11 k out Bands to loo 12 for during 20
28 -2 9 tall ships
12 -14 stra of ukulele orche rticle great britain a 15 -17 Interview with nell samantha dar
30 -31 iot tour rock sound r 32 -3 7 Feature with The Guns 38 -3 9 Interview with Anavae
18 -19 Live reviews! Snoop dogg Sylosis
40 -4 5 CD Reviews
20 -21 e Suicide Silenc 22 -2 3 oup bowling for s
46 -47 Top 3 of 2011
24 -2 5 Enter Shikari Miss May i
Pa
Contributors A-Z an Crittenden, e, Alex Brady, Ry yn nt lla Ba e in ad N e, Ed Townend ue, Anneka Sillito Ro ne Ja hna an ul Esp, H
Rock101 Words: Anneka Sillitoe
Ah the nineties. The decade that
Music would go literally pop crazy with
would bring us the internet and girl-
girls bands like the Spice Girls appearing,
power. Movies would be mixed with
boybands like the Backstreet Boys and
Disney at it’s best and then those producer
NSYNC, and the solo stars the likes of
types making us suffer through Titantic.
Britney and Christina. But rock would
TV would be great and give us The Fresh
have it’s place in there too. At the start of
Prince of Bel Air, The Simpsons (who
the decade of the most influential bands
already existed, but became a household
ever would appear and towards the end
name in the 90’s) and Pokémon! Sadly
there would be some crazy rivalry in rock
reality TV would start this decade thanks
between more accented bands (the 60s
to MTV, but Cribs was alright (shame all
heroes had truly a big influence
reality TV after this was mostly painful!).
this decade!)
Refused
nirvana
A band that simply won’t reform since
Whether you were around when they were big
their 1998 split (much to everyone’s
or not shouldn’t stop you from seeing where
disappointment). What they created in their 7
Dave Grohl started out and how influential
year run had not been seen before or matched
Nirvana were in their short career. Many
since. Brining the live element into a studio
people I know weren’t even old enough to
track (something no one else has dared to do
remember Cobain, but hail him as their hero.
since, in case they fail).
Why? For many it’s a fade thing, but for some it’s because he was a great writing force and
Album you should check out:
another talented musician that left us too early.
The Shape of Punk to Come. It contains New Noise, THE song everyone mentions when
Album you should check out:
talking about influences and songs that
Nevermind. It’s got ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ on it
changed their lives (the song that bought live
and shot the band to mainstream success. It also
to your living room).
features the better track in ‘Come As You Are’.
90s the
the clash
guns n roses
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blur
faith no more
Not many bands can say they reinvented themselves
Often credited as inventing ‘alternative metal’.
well enough to survive in two completely separate
And whilst it was popular, they were hugely
genres and see success in them both. Blur can
successful, especially once Mike Patton became their
though. They survived the “Britpop years” and then
vocalist in 1988.
saw success after the end of Britpop. They wrote some catchy as hell songs, and although I’ve never
But as with many bands, they died with their genre.
been a big fan, I seem to be able to sing along with
So how can they be influential you ask? Because it’s
any Blur single quite happily and that is just how
all well and good inventing a genre. But understand
much they were played on radio during the 90’s.
you’re allowed to do it a second time if it means you’ll survive longer!
Album you should check out: Parklife. This was a hard one to pick because
Album you should check out:
this album and the 2 that followed it had a huge
The Real Thing. Mike Patton’s first album with the
collection of hits, but this is the one that really was
band and the one that features ‘Epic’.
the start of Blur’s radio success.
green day A band that were punk rock before it became cool,
rage against the machine
and then helped make it just that. But to take it
Always a band willing to fight for what they think is
to the next level you have to be willing to draw
right. And even if you don’t agree with them they’ve
influence from heroes past. So they created a rock
taught future generations that you don’t always have
opera, ‘American Idiot’ in 2004 and in 2010 the
to take the shit lying down.
stage adaptation debuted on Broadway. Album you should check out: Album you should check out:
Rage Against the Machine. The band’s self-titled
Dookie. This album had hit single after hit single.
album was a huge success and featured ‘Killing in the
Who cannot love ‘Basketcase’ or ‘Welcome to
Name’ which would years later become Christmas
Paradise’. The start of a much amazing career
number 1 in a battle to stop X-Factor winning again.
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foo fighters
So why as the genre is making a come back do Korn suddenly make a dive to the currently popular dub
This is where Dave Grohl left the drum kit behind
step? Your guess is as good as mine, but they’ve
(shame cause he’s so good) and rocked up to the
survived this long so maybe they know something
mix. He’s been described by Pitchfork Media as “his
we don’t but either way they’ve proved that the genre
generation’s answer to Tom Petty – a consistent hit
can live on through you providing you stay true to it.
machine pumping out working-class rock”. The line up has barely changed and they’ve always stayed
Album you should check out:
true to their sound. They’ve won countless awards
Follow the Leader. It’s hard to pick a Korn
including 6 Grammy’s. Grohl said, “it might be nice
album, but this was the album that brought them
to broaden our range, open up the dynamics, so we
mainstream success and featured that absolute
can go out and just make music”. Never be afraid to
awesome track ‘Freak on a Leash’.
give other stuff a go. Album you should check out:
rancid
The Colour and the Shape. There is a host of classic
Whilst in their prime and at the height of their
Foo Fighters tracks on this album and not a single
success Rancid decided to have a little fun and shop
bad track. A fantastic listen from beginning to end.
around for a label, before settling for staying exactly where they were.
korn
They’ve proved that you can always look elsewhere
Have been one of those bands hat have just always
but if you’re truly good enough the offer will be good
been around. And whether they’re well known
enough to stay right where you already were.
because Jonathon Davis wears a kilt or what, I’m not sure (it’s certainly a bit different and
Album you should check out:
noticeable ain’t it?)
...And Out Come the Wolves. This album did so well that Rancid became the most popular American
But they had managed to survive so long on a genre
punk rock band to be signed to an independent label.
long since dead (nu-metal) and one that had claimed so many other bands with it’s demise.
soundscape 07
Rock101 cont...
marilyn manson Never afraid to push the boundaries of what was acceptable and never afraid to shock. Always willing to draw fro their influences and experiment for the greater good of their music. They prove that anything is possible when you really try hard enough. Album you should check out:
Album you should check out: Vulgar Display of Power. Only reason I picked this is not only did it receive rave reviews at the time of release, but it features ‘Walk’ which is a tune!
no doubt No Doubt hit it majorly big with album ‘Tragic Kindgom’ and then had almost the exact opposite effect with the follow up ‘Return to Saturn’. But they
Antichrist Superstar. The album that made Marilyn
proved you can find the top again which they did
Manson a household name. Even my mum knew
with ‘Rock Steady’.
who he was (she didn’t realise it was a band haha!) and liked him, despite all the controversy.
They also prove girl fronted bands don’t have to be shouty and in fact shouldn’t be shouty because
pantera
Gwen is just too good!
Pantera earn this place on the rock 101 by helping
Album you should check out:
pioneer the New Wave of American heavy Metal.
Tragic Kingdom. The album that introduced me to No Doubt and I’ve never looked back since. And
The influence of the guitar playing can be seen
neither did a lot of people because ‘Don’t Speak’
through a ton of American Metal bands since
went to number 1 in the states and charted in the
according to Popmatters. They then went on to list
top 5 in many other countries.
a ton of American bands as well as Bullet for my valentine (so as a Welsh magazine we’re claiming ‘em back – oi, they’ve not bloody American, they’re from pissing Bridgend!).
motorhead
soundscape 09
bands to look out for in 2012 Words: Anneka Sillitoe
Mind museum
Pareto
Their EP was fantastic and that was just a small
Scotland are just rocking the amazing bands
release. They followed it with a slightly bigger
lately and another to add to that list are Pareto.
release which was just as rocking. Imagine what this band could do with a full length album! 2012 will hopefully be the year for this. Look out for Mind Museum in 2012. If a full
They’re music is well thought-out and seriously rocking. Check them out now before they get huge and join the ranks of Scotland’s finest.
length hits they’re gonna be huge!
New releases set for 2012: the used The fifth studio instalment was originally set for release before the end of 2010 and then for
gallows With Wade from Alexisonfire taking over singing duties, the band have toured together, but we now eagerly await that new album.
no doubt The new album is now 2012 because
2011. It hasn’t happened. I’m desperate for
the band did not want to rush it. I hope
this album, so I really hope 2012 is the year
this is amazing!
of The Used.
fights tar
queen Working their way through a series of old
I heard a rumour Fightstar were no more, but
material featuring Freddie on vocals, Roger
I’m really hoping this isn’t true as the band have
and Brian have stated they hope to release it in
said they’ll reunite for 2012 and an album. I
2012. This could not be more amazing!
hope the latter is true.
flood of red We’ve heard new tracks, so I’m hoping
spineshank ‘Anger Denial Acceptance’ should be out in 2012. The nu metal kid in me cannot wait!
we get the new album for 2012. soundscape 11
Ukulele orchestra of Great Britain Words: Alex Brady
It’s that time of year again. The time of rushing from shop to shop for days in the bitter cold, ending in friends and family coming together to share their hatred for Christmas songs.
Every year in shops, on the radio and television,
Formed in 1985, the UOGB have been somewhat
we are subjected to the same festive songs in
of a specialist delight; not a group you would
concentrations high enough to thoroughly
regularly hear on Radio 1 or many other stations
sedate our Christmas cheer. This year, why not
for that matter. More something you hear of
take a break from monotony of Noddy Holder
through word of mouth or stumble across one
reassuring us that it is indeed Christmas and
day flicking through online stores or the music
indulge in something we have to offer: The
collection of an eccentric friend, but don’t take
Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.
that as a judgement of their talent.
Though they haven’t released a Christmas single
You can have infinitely more delight listening
and don’t do anything all that festive, they are
to the UOGB for an entire day than you can
one of the most entertaining ensembles you
rolling around in bubble wrap, in a ball pit, in
could come across. Composed of musicians who,
the play section of an all you can eat ice cream
strangely enough, only play the ukulele, the
parlour and in 2009, the cultural and musical
UOGB are primarily a cover group, replicating
importance of the troupe was recognised
the works of Talking Heads, David Bowie, Lou
with their own BBC Prom, a cornerstone in
Reed, film scores and numerous other delights
acknowledging the world’s greatest cultural
along the way, all in their unique, quirky fashion.
musicians.
Over a couple of hours, the orchestra wowed, entertained and enthralled an audience who jumped at the chance to join in with hundreds of their own ukuleles. Kate Bush, The Who and Sex Pistols were just a few of the greats featured during their slot at the festival but it’s not just who they cover who makes them stand out, it’s how they interpret them.
Take the Sex Pistols. A band who were instrumental in the initiation of the punk genre, personifications of the anger and angst which swept the nation during the 70s, embodied in full in their track Anarchy in the U. K. In the hands of the UOGB, Anarchy takes on a more relaxed appeal. The frustration and anti-social rage of the original is replaced with an ironic calm and inviting harmonies, the beauty of which belie the intent of the lyrics and the purpose of the punk genre. (cont)
soundscape 13
Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights was given a
jolly, to share in the good times with others, to
distinctly Yorkshire twist and The Who’s Pinball
create an atmosphere of fun and frivolity. The
Wizard had never sounded so good, all in one
problem with the Christmas songs we hear, is
night of stringed wonder. Their albums and
that we hear them over and over, year after year.
DVD are worthy of equal praise, featuring such
They don’t change and any new songs that do
classics as Le Freak, Miss Dy-Na-Mi-Tee, Shaft
come out are blemished by their pursuit of the
and Rock Around the Clock.
prized Christmas Number 1 slot in The Charts, replacing any sense of community and festivity
The UOGB’s approach is one of alternative
with one of profit and industry gain.
entertainment whilst producing damn good music, putting a new spin on classics all whilst
So this year, rather than the same old, stagnant
giving the impression that they would happily go
songs and money making ventures, delight
down the pub with you afterwards. Half of the
yourselves with a little bit of ukulele and songs
purpose of a Christmas song is to make you feel
we have grown up loving, made better
www.ukuleleorchestra.com/main/home.aspx
.
Interview with
samantha darnell In the last issue of Soundscape we reviewed Samantha Darnell’s EP ‘The Art Of Breaking Hearts’, so we thought we would catch up with this mega talented American singer/ songwriter to find all about her and the new EP.
Give us the history of
What inspires your
The new EP ‘The Art Of
Samantha Darnell?
unique sound?
Breaking Hearts’ is great,
I’ve been singing since age 3,
Thanks for referring to it
tell us about the recording
writing songs since 7, making
as unique. That makes me
process?
albums since 14, fronting
happy! I’m very inspired by
Thank you! Well, the whole
bands since 18 and have
the 20’s-50’s era. I was always
process took about a year to get
ventured off on my own as a
fascinated by that kind of
the album written, recorded
solo artist over the past year.
music and performance and
and released. It flew by fast,
Music has always been my life.
wanted to find a way to merge
though because we had so
I don’t know anything else.
my “retro” influences with my
much fun. (cont)
modern influences.
Words: Paul Esp
soundscape 13
I wrote all of the lyrics and
important ingredient of
obsessed with Conor Oberst.
melodies and brought them
a song. Great songs have
He’s one of the best lyricists
to my wonderful producers,
a catchy melody. I usually
ever. More modern stuff
Dan Book and Alexei Misoul
start with the chorus/the
on my iPod is Damien Rice,
to help bring them to life.
hook. You can pretty much
Serena Ryder, Adele, Amos
They are so great at taking
do anything in the verses
Lee, Sara Bareilles, Grace
what’s in my head and
and as long as you have that
Potter, Mumford and Sons,
knowing how to arrange the
hook, people will get it stuck
Lydia, Nickelcreek, Simon
music around what I bring
in their head.
Joyner, Ellie Goulding, etc.
to them. The music was
The list goes on and on and
written and recorded at their
Then, I write lyrics to fit the
my genres are all over the
studio, Misty Hill studios, in
melody and take it to my
place. A good song is a
Pikesville, Maryland. All of
producers where they come up
good song.
my vocals were done at Mike
with a basic chord progression
Bridgett’s studio, Hamilton
to fit what I have and we build
You have a solo band ‘The
Road Studios, in Waldorf,
the arrangement from there.
Attaboys’, how did you
Maryland. You can actually
get together with them?
see a lot of behind-the scenes-
You were in the UK not
Every musician who plays
footage of it in my many
too long ago, any plans
for me is recommended
vlogs at www.youtube.com/
to come back and play
to me by fellow musician
samanthadarnell .
some shows?
friends that I trust. To be an
Yes, most definitely. I
Attaboy, you must be very
Where does your song
absolutely fell in love with
talented, hardworking and
inspiration come from?
London when I visited and
dedicated and we have to have
Life and all the emotions that
plan to move there as soon as
a certain musical chemistry.
come with it. I tend to write
possible, so hopefully you’ll be
a lot about the struggles of
seeing a lot of me!
My music is my baby and I
relationships. My music is my
need my live band members to
outlet, so it’s my way of speaking
What bands/artists
know that and be as into it as I
my mind and I definitely don’t
do you listen to?
am. They also have to be nice
hold anything back.
I listen to a lot of Judy
people since I spend a lot of
Garland, Frankie
time with them!
What’s your
Lymon, Marilyn Monroe,
songwriting process?
Frank Sinatra, Buddy Holly,
What are your
First, I write the melody
Billy Holiday, Bessie Smith,
future plans?
because it’s the single most
Louis Armstrong, etc. I’m also
To take over the world
.
You can check out Samantha on Facebook http://www.facebook. com/SamanthaDmusic and download her EP from iTunes www.itunes.com/ samanthadar​nell
soundscape 17
live reviews snoop dogg cardiff motorpoint arena 8th october
It is not often that a bonafide
quite hit the spot. Fortunately for
greets the masses, a look which
hip-hop legend touches down
the crowd BBC Radio 1Xtra DJ
oddly works for him. Snoop is
in Cardiff so as I walked into
Mistajam was on hand to warm
an absolute master in the art of
the jam-packed Motorpoint
them up properly as he played a
crowd pleasing and as he started
Arena it appeared that everyone
variety of songs from Bob Marley
with ‘I Wanna Rock’ the set was
(including Mr. Dogg himself) was
to Doctor P all of which got a
off and running with a bang. His
unaware of the Michael Jackson
great response.
voice is so unique with that thick
tribute concert just along the
California twang every word he
road. People from all different
It was now time for the self-
raps sounds cool, no matter what
walks of life had gathered to
appointed “Doggfather
you put behind that voice Snoop
watch a man who is still reeling
of Rap” to make his highly
has created such a legacy that it
out the hits nearly 20 years
anticipated arrival. As a video
just works.
after he first emerged onto the
clip montage of his career
scene, and the legend from Long
highlights played on the screen
After a couple of tracks Snoop
Beach was here with his sizable
the noise in the arena went
sneaks into the back unnoticed
entourage to both entertain and
through the roof as the Welsh
but as he emerges back onto
impress the crowd.
crowd caught the first sight of the
the stage in a Welsh rugby shirt
Big Dogg. Snoop’s appearance
everyone the crowd erupts with
Luckily support act, UK rapper
looks oh so very different from
excitement again. Sporting
Chipmunk only performed a
what we have just seen on the
“Snoop, 1” on the back of the
short set as his frankly terrible
screen as a wire-thin aging
shirt he continues his sets that
rapping over a generic beat didn’t
man with dreadlocks is what
is peppered with hits like ‘Gin
and Juice’, ‘What’s My Name’
Welsh fans. Pulling out tracks
stage. As the performance was
and ‘Drop It Like It’s Hot’ as
like 50 Cent’s ‘P.I.M.P’ and Dr.
coming to an end Snoop pulled
the performance is more like a
Dre’s classic ‘The Next Episode’
out his trump card in the form
greatest hits selection as opposed
the crowd are so pumped up
of the fist pumping David Guetta
to a promotion of his new album.
by these tracks that they barely
hit ‘Wet’ which inevitably sent
His back catalogue spans over
notice that Snoop’s rapping is
everybody in attendance into
a couple of decades and this
minimal, but with the help of
an uncontrollable frenzy. As the
allows Snoop to delve into his
three scantily clad dancers and
opening bars of ‘House of Pain’
collaborative efforts to further
two puffer-jacket clad helpers
kicked in the final track was a
please the crowd.
this becomes irrelevant.
mass sing-a-long that summed
Snoop is an incredibly clever
up the night very well.
artist, his undoubtedly talented
In a similar sense Snoop tracks
An amazing night and a gig that
rapping makes an appearance
like ‘Beautiful’ and ‘Signs’ went
I will never forget, the hip-hop
on so many hits and he leans on
down ever so well even without
legend came, saw and conquered
these songs to further please his
the actual guest vocalists on
the Welsh capital. Words: Ryan Crittenden
sylosis Cardiff CF10
29th september After getting myself locked out
Hot and intimate, the blazing
The venue was blowing up with
of my apartment for the second
heat bouncing from the crowd
can crushing emotion & speedy
time this month, I ended up
and the band had us all red
double bass. Sylosis are a new
at the gig wearing a baby pink
‘n sweaty.
metal band that matter. They
party dress (still on from the
don’t just have long hair, a
night before) I’d never been to
As for the music, Sylosis
good head bang and a teaspoon
the ‘CF10’ venue so it was fun
played a prime set, living up
of guitaristic talent. They
to check it out, despite being
to their reputable talents with
possess tonnes of integrity and
the ugly duckling amongst the
technical complexity spread
unique flair. In the end they
black abyss of metal heads.
out through the band.
make your ears backfire. Words: Hannah-Jane Roue
soundscape 19
never say die tour Suicide Silence & Deez Nuts cardiff solus 10th october
Having been supporting Suicide
the stage and just like every band
New tracks manage to feed their
Silence for the last five years it’s
on this bill, a hardcore resilience,
way into this tiny set and see the
great to finally see them on a tour
an adoring fan base, a slightly
venue halt with fans muttering
and in a venue that holds more
worrying security guard and a
under their breath at whether
than 200 people. Each year they
circle pit that grows with each
they were really necessary. One’s
go from strength to strength,
song but feels incredibly short.
great, two’s OK, but any more is
musically and live but this is a
When it comes down to it, in the
pushing the boundaries of your
tour that in order to be able to fill
end the whole ‘scene kid’ fiasco
fans patience. However., they do
a typical union a lot of bands need
is forgotten about and it doesn’t
make up for it in sound.
to be stuffed onto the bill.
matter what type of ‘label’ you are, everyone on the floor is
One of the great things about
One of the first bands that finally
there to support all the bands
Suicide Silence is Mitch’s voice
grips me is Deez Nuts. When the
on the bill. Metal gigs have that
doesn’t back down. It’s as
singer comes out with “Hi, we’re
connection that you wouldn’t
powerful on stage as it is on CD.
Deez Nuts from Australia and this
particularly see at an indie gig.
But the show ends abruptly with
is called “Your Mother Should
the crowd chanting for more who
Have Swallowed You”, what’s not
When Suicide Silence
are only wasting their breath.
to enjoy? Definitely a ‘party’ band
eventually make it on stage it’s
Once the lights are up and the
in that I wouldn’t recommend
a short one. For a headline act
music’s on there’s no chance in a
you listen to if you’re one of those
I expect no less than an hour,
band returning for more despite
straight edge kids. They’re all
especially in a venue that size
the fact it’s ended laughably early
about having fun and the dance
but all we’re given is a meagre
and before curfew for a metal
floor, as its called, is feeling that
forty five minute set crammed
show. They could have easily
way tonight. With another quick
with a setlist that feels it’s been
played a few more tracks and it’s a
turn over we see Emmure hit
set in stone for the entire tour.
wonder why they didn’t?
Words & Photo: Nadine Ballantyne
soundscape 21
bowling for soup cardiff solus 20th october
It’s been a few years since I’ve
bar. Singer Jaret pulls some
feels too personal, each show
caught the almighty Bowling
lucky crowd members up on
is its own. No dedicated setlist
For Soup live. I’m firstly
stage and invites them to stay
and time, it’s just free reign on
astounded that they’re not
at the on stage bar, although
what ever comes out of Jaret’s
playing in the great hall but
does note that they’ll have to
mouth and what ever the
downsized to the Solus. A mere
stare at their bums for the set.
crowd decide to throw at him.
them at Newport Centre. What
Jaret’s one of those singers
“Hey All you sheep fuckers,
happened kids?
who knows how to pull
we’re cow fuckers from Texas”
Did punk rock take a hit in the
in a crowd and banter
shouts the bassist after a
last few years? Is it just not as
between songs like theirs no
lengthy discussion about when
popular these days with the
tomorrow. One point see’s him
you’re in Wales and how not
likes of indie pop taking over
complaining about a review of
to mention sheep. Banter
the reigns, or is it a choice to
a show the other night, another
continues with songs and along
play more intimate shows?
part see’s the band give away
with a thoroughly enjoyable
shirts and shout out that “you
set. Their hits (well, every song
No matter what size Bowling
guys are great at following
feels like a hit) gets the usual
For Soup always make the best
instructions”. It almost doesn’t
sing along from the crowd.
of it. Not long into the set and
feel like you’re in a room with
Who says us Europeans only
we’re introduced to an on stage
a 1000 other fans because it
care about serious music?
Words & Photos: Nadine Ballantyne
third of the size since I last saw
enter shikari your demise cardiff Uni 20th october
Tonights gig is at the Coal
still taking the stage by storm
microphone out to the sardined
Exchange, an interesting looking
but the twister isn’t on the stage,
faces. One of Enter Shikari’’s
venue in Cardiff Bay. As we
it’s in the crowd. Their popping
main attributes is that one
arrive we are welcomed by rain
snare and industrial tone winds
second your head is banging
and rude door staff. Eventually
down and they leave us warmed
hard to gut growling, then your
we are ushered into the foyer,
up and ready.
legs are doing a sprightly type of
where we all look like penguins
dub skip.
in the north trying to find our
Glowing green triangles haunt
home.
the venue and a bearded Rou
The playlist is big and features
begins to stamp his beats,
all the necessary tunes and
Thanks to the awful
treading all over his fans with
anthems. From old to new, the
organization we miss the first
digital metal. The bad sound is
extravagance has developed
support band. So we settle
instantly forgiven with expert
in their sound and it’s slowly
into the audience and await
drum beats, dubstep and a big
revving up the audience like a
Your Demise. The lead singer
(massive) stage presence.
tease.
hat and interesting little shorts
Enter Shikari have recently
If only we weren’t already on
and begins to thrash around to
been soaking up the sex and
our feet, these guys would get a
a cyclone of rasping and noise.
sand in Thailand, recording
standing ovation.
Despite the bad sound and
their new album. Still just as
attitude, they receive a good
fresh and energetic, they deal
crowd reception.
with their gigs tremendously.
An impressive circle pit and wall
“Go tell all your friends that
of death later, Your Demise are
this is the end” Rou holds the
bounces onto the stage in a cute
Words: Hannah-Jane Roue
Miss May I
Chelsea Grin, Abandon All Ships, chunk! No, Captain Chunk! cardiff Cf10 21st october
Sweating with pints of relentless
The night develops into heavier
pleasing harmonics begin to
and no more than a hop, skip
acidic tones as Abandon All
sing and a strobe-speed bass
and jump away from the stage,
Ships take the audience through
drum starts up whilst the topless
CF10 always do a good job
a storm “We don’t give a fuck, we
lead gets busy dazzling the
accommodating for metal gigs.
just came to party” arguably the
venue, tattoos and shaggy hair
It’s intimacy is like no other
most debatable band at present,
galore. Compulsory head banging
venue in Cardiff and with no
usually slated for their excessive
ripples through the crowd and
exceptions.
electronic elements and auto
sky-high crowd surfers start
tune almost as bad as T-Pains
hovering their way across the
The support juice up the night
new disaster release ‘5 o’clock’.
audience as their exhilarating
with a combination of cliché,
Despite this they grace the crowd
time signatures fuel us up.
electronics, break downs and
with their pleaser Take One Last
guitars. The audience have mixed
Breath and everyone’s game.
opinions as everyone switches
The gig goes respectively well but features somewhat of a highly
positions for each band but the
Next on the list is Chelsea
manufactured set list lacking
venue remains active through
Grin, Fracturing our skulls with
any noticeable zap. Sociable
out the night, flying limbs and
deathcore. Hammering beats and
breakdowns and suffocating tight
flailing hair regularly piercing
growls of demise. Their brutal
instrumentals fault the show
the suffocating horizon. Chunk!
foundations make this band
as their music becomes almost
No, Captain Chunk! burst
unappealing to the majority of
clinical with a tacky after taste.
into easycore melodies which
the audience though.
There is nothing sexier than a
arouse the audience gently,
musician letting loose.
raising all our eyebrows at their
Then Miss May I step into the
However this is no try hard
true potential.
secluded spotlight for a night of
band, Miss May I are one of the
professionalism at its metalcore
biggest names in metalcore at the
best. As they take the stage,
moment.
Words: Hannah-Jane Roue
soundscape 25
the red jumpsuit apparatus hawthorne heights cardiff CF10 3rd December
CF10 is one of those venues
be the the lightest one I’ve seen
from here. Cat and Mouse, what
that’s really just a back room at
in a while, I mean we’re talking
was once a beautiful acoustic
the uni but someone decided
your grandma could have
song is ruined by Ronnie trying
one day it could be an extra
caused more of a disturbance
to get the crowd involved,
venue. It doesn’t help lift the
when thrown in there than
leaving out major vocal parts
atmosphere that Red Jumpsuit
the young ones, it’s still
then failing to even finish it
Apparatus has moved nowhere
something for the band to work
cleanly. Also doesn’t help that
since the last time they touched
from none the less.
a third of the crowd rudely talk
our shores. The place it littered
over the song.
with young ones with that type
When TRJA walk on theirs
of fringe we do not talk about.
an air that the singer isn’t too
Looking around you can sense it
happy, that or was particularly
in many peoples faces, this set is
It’s a co-headline tour and
drunk before even hitting the
dying on its arse and sounding
somehow Hawthorne
stage. Twice we are tortured
worse than crying cat who’s just
Heights are before TRJA.
with uncalled for solos that feels
clawed its own eyes out. This
Considering the venue and
like an excuse for singer Ronnie
is getting painful to watch and
crowd they make the best or a
to stroll off stage and casually
listen to. Hawthorne Heights
bad situation. Sounding strong
waddle over to the bar to pick
should have been the clear
and still appreciative that there’s
up some beers before slowly and
headliner here. It’s unfortunate
kids out there supporting them
unwillingly strolling back on
how one member can ruin an
they end with classic Ohio Is For
stage to eventually move onto
entire set. 5/10
Lovers that finally moves the
the next song. It doesn’t look
crowd and a pit evolves. It may
good and doesn’t get any better
soundscape 26
Words & Photos: Nadine Ballantyne
tall ships Words: Ryan Crittenden
cardiff undertone 10th november
A tiny underground venue is
respite as this huge wall of sound
hooks as bassist Matt Parker and
the location for the band that
is full of everything you associate
drummer Jamie Bush provide
possesses a massive amount of
with Tall Ships. It’s effectively
a solid base to construct the
potential and an even bigger
a massive jam with guitar loops
instrumental opening. This
sound. Back in May, Tall Ships
and frantic drumming which
all changes as the pace takes a
played a set in Buffalo Bar that
perfectly matches the fast paced
nosedive with soft keys and the
was just tainted by technical
nature of the song as the already
repetitive “There is nothing but
issues and as this was the first
warm venue is now well and
chemistry here” lyric dominating
date of their mini tour it looked
truly warmed up. Exploding into
the mid-section before again
like they wanted to set the record
‘Plate Tectonics,’ the volume
building the track up for a huge
straight for the reasonable crowd
appears to have increased as
finale. After a brief interaction
that had gathered. After two
that colossal intro gets the
with the crowd thanking them
successful EP’s the band have
venue bouncing. The driving
for coming along and showing
recently been away recording
guitars riffs are as huge as ever
support after last time, they play
songs for a new album, so
and although lead singer Ric
new track ‘Phosphorescence’,
tonight was all about showcasing
Phethean’s voice is still warming
a song they say is about skinny
some newbies whilst playing
up, this massive track is all
dipping. Being the first time they
the tracks that have seen them
about the down tempo build ups
have played the song live, it’s a
grab some great plaudits. With a
that lead into those thunderous
bit shaky to begin with as the
change in venue it was hopefully
mêlée’s of sound.
trio struggle with timings but
going to be matched with a
still the underlying summery
change in fortunes for the trio
As ‘Plate Tectonics’ comes to a
guitar riffs and endearingly
from Falmouth on their return to
blistering end, the three piece
intelligent vocals are there for
the Welsh capital.
leave no time for though as
all to see.
they crack on with ‘Chemistry.’ Diving straight into new track
The intro is all focused around
‘Books’ acts a nice little set
‘T=0’, the trio give the crowd no
Ric Phethean’s looping guitar
filler with its synth heavy sound
providing a nice alternative to
visually. After a pitch perfect
like keys act as the background
the guitar hooks whilst vocalist
introduction using an electro
to this slower number before
Phethean’s is back on song.
drum beat its all change as
that ever familiar pace change
Third and final new track of
Bush assumes a role on the bass
again grabs the song by the
the night ‘Oscar’ is the pick
where he provides an impeccably
scruff of the neck to liven the
of the new song Tall Ships
timed bass line during the
very sweaty audience into a
have showcased tonight as the
mid-song almost a cappella
brilliant “Vessels” sing-a-long.
well timed mellow opening
section. Handing the bass back
The beaming smiles on the face
was followed by a familiarly
to Parker, the drummer begins
of the band members tells the
sounding full scale blow out. The
to remove one of his drums
story as they can really tell that
song flows really nicely and the
before assuming a seated role at
they have nailed the gig and
timings of the guitar loops are
the front of crowd. As Plethean
made a triumphant return to
spot on, you can’t help by stand
sets up the guitar loops he hops
Cardiff. Closing the set with
back and admire the ability
on the drums and from there all
recent single and familiar
of the band to blend together
three members thrash away at
set closer ‘Hit the Floor,’ the
continual pulsating bass lines
their varying instruments
crashing percussive stomps and
with the frenetic drumming that
creating a truly memorable live
abrasive guitars that shape the
has now seen drummer Bush
moment that encapsulates all
song are the perfect elements
shirtless, all combined with the
in attendance.
to end this hot and energetic
experimental looping of synth and guitar lines.
performance. An excellent show At this point it would have been
to mark the first date on the
nice for the band to leave the
mini-tour, with the Falmouth
Highlight of the night comes in
stage and really appreciate the
three-piece looking to make a
the form of ‘Snow.’ This is not
audience’s reaction; however,
real impact on the alternative
only due to the fact that it is
they carried on with ‘Vessels.’
scene… Top draw.
an absolutely quality song but
The build up again was well
how the trio set themselves up
observed as the church-organ soundscape 29
Words & Photos: Nadine Ballantyne
soundscape 30
rock sound riot tour every time i die, trash talk, defeater cardiff uni
11th december It doesn’t feel like too long ago
the show they played in London,
their entire back catalogue
ETID were on our shores touring
a city that drowns Cardiff. It’s
just to get through a forty five
the guts out of ‘The New Junk
great to think the tour sold out
minute set.
Aesthetic’, and what feels like a
here. South Wales must truly
life at that too. Well, they’re back
appreciate its metal.
It’s time. Every Time I Die open with classic head knocker
but this time bring a new some to the table. They aren’t the type
The show moves onto much
Apocalypse Now and Then.
of band to take a holiday for a
talked about Trash Talk.
It’s hard to keep scope on the
few years so hears hoping they
Part of the band mosey on
madness that’s happening on
come back next year with just as
stage looking dreary yet ready
stage with every member
strong bill.
to tear the venue a new one
making a pleasing meal of
but singer Lee Spielman takes
the show. Constant zest from
We start with Defeater, a
that job on for himself. Barely
both band and crowd whilst
band who voyage back and
even spending half a set on
a constant barrage of flawless
fore from hardcore to beautiful
stage, he can be found admits
sounding songs continues
acoustic numbers. But we’re not
dodging photographers and
through out the set.
privileged enough to hear any
security before deciding to either
of them tonight. It does make
scramble over the barrier or just
Every Time I Die are on top
you wonder when singer Derek
go for the leap. At one point tells
form, even when new song
Archambault voyages from such
fans to create a circle pit around
underwater Bimbos From Outer
vocal diversity, which he prefers.
him as he stands there looking
Space kicks off, things don’t
jubilant and valiant.
rest there. They end the set with Floater, carnage breaks out for
The intensity of Defeaters sound manages to move some of the
Trash Talk are fast, heavy and
one last sad time before singer
crowd but in a venue clearly too
probably average the typical
Keith and Jordan plummet into
big for this tour it’d be hard for
song under two minutes.
the crowd. A little shorter than
any band to get the whole crowd
Half way through and you’re
their set should have been but
moving. A venue that’s as big as
wondering if they have to play
it’s been a fantastic line up.
Left to right: Adam, Alex, Tom, Stix
“Fuck The Demon Outta Me” is like a
double negative, it’s like if you want to censor, if you want to control, if you want to judge then you need to come
soundscape 32
down to a gutter musicians level...
w e i v r e t In with... the mother fucking
guns The Guns recently released softmore album ‘Fuck The Demon Outta Me”. We dive into the mind of Alex Wiltshire, a singer, song writer, guitarist, presenter, that bloke who does the Ross Kemp On Gangs voiceover, a sneaker fanatic and downright local legend. There aren’t many people in South Wales who haven’t heard of The Guns. With every show as energetic as the last they’ll suck you in and spit you back out as their biggest fan. 2012 is the year The Guns can only get stronger and start their journey into the top rock ‘n roll ranks. We only expect things to get bigger and better for them this year.
Fuck The Demon Outta Me is out now. Purchase from iTunes or The Guns bigcartel http://theguns.bigcartel.com soundscape 23
Did you take any influence
same energy channelling their
every ounce of whatever we have
from American bands in
personalities into their music,
to share with people and hope
the tracks ‘Daughter of a
which is what gives it that non-
that whoever digs it can keep on
Bad Man’. ‘Voodoo Boogie’
genre toting slap. People like
enjoying it.
and ‘Stranger Than You’?
Tom Waits, Ol’ Dirty Bastard,
Which ones, and why did
Nick Cave, Layne Staley, John
‘Fuck the Demon Outta Me’
you choose to use this style
Lennon and Marilyn Manson,
saw a bundle of 200 limited
of music in the album?
they all had/have this intense
edition CDs, what made you
drive that made them so potent
choose that?
I don’t really see it as taking
to the point where its almost
influence from American bands
like they knew something
Apart from the obvious thing
as such; we just see it as taking
others didn’t and they had to
that affects everyone (money),
influence from bands generally,
share it for the sake of music
it’s something that we find cool
so any bands we’re interested
and just smashing shit up, its
as fuck and miss wholeheartedly
in, which ranges from bands
kinda everything and nothing
about music from quite a few
like The Beatles to Refused and
at the same time because on the
years ago, it’s something real, it’s
from The Pharcyde to QOTSA.
one hand, there’s something
something rad, it’s something
We just dig everything with each
super important to say but
tangible, it’s something you
culture as well. As far as genre
that something is just music as
breathe; it’s everything and
or style goes, it’s something we
news and to a whole bunch of
nothing, depending on how far
have never cared about or been
people that’s laughable or seen
you want to jump in with your
scared of. Some bands either get
as just a hobby or something in
love of music.
pigeonholed or pick what they
the background but it means
think they “need” to be playing,
everything to us and we love
For me, I loved the buzz of
which is cool if they’re happy
every aspect of it.
hearing someone like At The Drive In playing a demo at 2am
with that and it’s what they want I guess it will constantly
on Mary Anne Hobbs and just
influence and amaze us from all
wanting to eat that record, just
We, like many others, dig the
angles. But anyone who feels the
wanted it in my hands right
motion and the grind put into
need may put us in any genre
now then it would be 7,8, even 9
music that doesn’t come under
they feel we fit, that’s not meant
weeks trawling through Spillers
a genre, it’s in so many people
in a bad way and its not meant to
asking the staff if they’d heard of
across so many “genres” that its
offend anyone who gives a fuck
the record, never wasting music
not even a genre its just people
but we don’t really give a fuck,
listening time, still buying punk
with the same fire and the
we just wanna play and enjoy
and rap CD’s while I was there,
out of music.
only to have it turn up like 2
You’re one of the few bands
with a pulse, you’ve poured a
months later then getting on a
locally that are able to keep
part of your personality into it.
bus to go in there and have that
going independently. You
Whether people love it, don’t
CD in your hand and read the
sell out shows and climb
mind it or despise it, either way
booklet like 6 times before you’d
up iTunes charts. Are there
I guess its necessary as soon as
even got home and listened to
any plans in the future to
you start stifling creativity your
it. Wondering who the other
find a record label or do you
imagination will suffocate and
bands were, the thank you list
prefer being more involved
you’ll become a ken doll with a
to friends, family, and really
personally?
smooth ceramic bulge.
album before you had a chance
I don’t know, it’s a big grey patch
Is there a story behind the
to listen and absorb it. You’d
of will anyone sign this, will
title ‘Fuck the Demon Outta
get home put the CD on and just
this happen will that happen,
Me’ or was it a random
completely burn it out along with
will they survive. Looking at it
choice that popped through
the rest, that was yours, that was
big picture wise we just don’t
your head at the time?
ours, it was a community
care about money, you need
and a culture and still is and
it to survive and being a huge
“Fuck The Demon Outta Me” is
always will be.
success would be anyone’s best
like a double negative, it’s like if
day ever, cause who wouldn’t
you want to censor, if you want
Even though ours is in a different
want that even if just for the life
to control, if you want to judge
way, even if we make little
experience but for real as long as
then you need to come down
to no impact, I don’t care we
we can keep playing music and
to a gutter musicians level and
all still got the burn and the
keep smashing up rooms in front
as religious folk would put it,
hunger, the fire and the ice,
of people who give a fuck then
commit sin to save the sinner
who knows where it will go, I’m
we’re happy and we’ll be burning
but the truth is some people are
not saying stay old school I’m
brighter than we ever have.
too scared of who they really are
saying change, keep thinking
Just want to play every day, any
and rather than exploring their
forward but always remember
time anywhere.
thoughts and thinking about
having chance to think about the
thinking. Never mind just
who you are and what’s made you. Its also super fucking cool
As for creating packages in
saying you’re outside of the
to do a bunch of hands-on work
general, its not just packages
box but being outside of
ourselves and manually post it
but anything, we love being
the box that’s outside of the
out to each person who ordered
involved with anything we can
box and questioning yourself
it. It’s what music is; we’re in the
be involved in. Like I said before
and not being afraid to
bloodstream man.
it’s something real, something
question anything.
We’ve seen you plough
shit and was in a rad band prior
of the main side project
through drummers and lose
to this (Flailing Wail). He can
he’s know for is The Milk.
backing singers recently.
look after himself drums wise.
Warped voice overs of your favourite programs from
Has that effected your time How was the recording
Ross Kemp on Gangs to
process for ‘Fuck The
EastEnders to Dragons Den.
Backing singers were never
Demon Outta Me’? All fun
With other side projects
really a permanent member kind
and games? Or a serious
going on such as The Milk,
of deal, it was just cool to try a
process?
which is notoriously known
to perform and record?
for ‘Ross Kemp On Gangs’.
different dynamic out on stage for that point in time, we felt like
The process was a very
it so we did. As for drummers,
productive and well-motivated
Do you ever find it strange
we went through a few different
time but never pushy or
people tend to recognise
stages of finding “the best
uncomfortable in a mechanical
you from voiceovers rather
musician” that we could to take
way. It was purely based on
than The Guns?
us to that next step and realised
creative flow, feelings and
that even though we shared
meanings to each song while
Not at all, I’m the same person
experiences with some of the
recording. Some shit went down
whether ten billion people like
best musicians in south Wales,
that’s behind the curtain, which
something I spewed out of my
props to them all, what we really
you can use your imagination on.
mouth and three people like something that I worked with
needed to do and have done is stop searching for perfection
Alex is a man that
a group of boys on, it doesn’t
like oh so many bands have been
constantly has various
matter either way, it’s still
eluded by and just have a hombre
projects on his hands,
allowing me to express
to max out with and make a load
one of which recently
myself creatively. I secretly
of noise with. Out of coincidence
involved him presenting a
love and thank anyone who
we found a friend that’s not super
local music show. But one
digs anything I do or that I am involved with simply because they have to have some form of warped imagination and primal music energy tendencies to be there listening, watching, laughing, fighting, crying and/or hating, to be there in the first place.
What would you say has
in music. So even if you hate
see all of our ups and downs as
been your biggest challenge
someone’s music at least respect
a necessity that could cause us
as a band so far?
or try and see what they are
to create different things meet
trying to do from their point of
new people and lead to different
Being honest and not letting
view as a necessary progression
experiences every step of
our initial goals and hunger to
be it good or bad.
the way.
ourselves and others, and not
A question we ask all bands
If you could be in any
get deluded by a beauty contest
- What era would you like to
reality show what would it
or a pound coin dressed in a suit
travel back in time to?
be?
to other bands, local, big, small,
1901, but only if we could take
Big brother, I’d either be out in
multicultural multi sub-genred
all our gear and some spare
the first week, be arrested on TV
anything, from anywhere and
strings. We’d take skateboards
or win and kick all the money
anytime period should be
and strobe lights, link up with
down the steps as I’m coming
listened to and not only
Alistair Crowley and start a turn
out. I’d love to shit on the living
just heard.
of the century freak out, cause
room floor when all the lights are
some real shit, change some laws
off, then get up in the morning
There’s a difference. Rather
and take down the man from
and be outraged by the outcome
than letting jealousy and lack of
the inside in the past. Only if we
and have the whole house in
what you think progression is
know what we know now though,
uproar asking Big Mother if she
overpower you and change your
other than that I’d go back to
can keep the secret under her
original goals of being a musician
yesterday and put some
hat. I’d also take a guitar with
and simply creating into
socks on cause my feet were
me and just sing mental songs
something else, like being better
freezing today.
in the garden all day, just tweak
create and share music with
competition. I think listening
with how people think and have
at that genre than someone else, or whatever bull shit people get
What’s been your best
lost in.
experience in the business so far?
a blast every step of the way.
What made you choose the instrument you have now?
I guess as hard as some people find it we all need to celebrate
There’s billions, every day is like
everyone’s successes in music
a kick in the face from a giant
What you mean, guitar? Or
because we’re all on the same
gold boot on the monopoly board
penis, I didn’t choose either they
team and all always opening
of music. Even the bad are good
were just there
doors and pushing boundaries
and the good are better, again we
.
soundscape 37
soundscape 38
Interview with
Ananvae Words: Paul Esp
A few months back I
the music we were writing with
and have fun playing guitar
got to hear a sneaky
end of the spectrum were two
in my free time. Since joining
secret track called ‘Zero
different things. We felt that it
I feel like I have developed a
Fidelity’, a cracking little
was time to branch off and try
better understanding of the
modern rock number but
something different. Start afresh
music I want to be writing and
we finally introduce you
with our new way of thinking
so it was important to me that
to Ananvae (pronounced
about and working with music.
I pursued starting my own
AH -NAH-VAY) and here
This is how Anavae came about.
project from scratch with people
is Jamie and Vocalist
“
who had the same idea of what I
Rebecca Need-Menear to
With you and Becca being
wanted to do and Becca was one
tell us all about them.
in End Of The Spectrum,
of them. The guys in eots didn’t
does that mean they are
feel the same way about the
You sitting on something
no more?
music so it only made sense that
quite secret for a few
Becca: I’m still currently with
we went our separate ways.
months? Can you share it
End of the Spectrum as the
with us?
music I wrote with them is still
Who will you be
Jamie: Yes! Finally, we can
important to me. Jamie made
recording with?
share it. It’s been driving us
his decision to leave EOTS once
Jamie: After hours upon hours
nuts the past few months having
Anavae had started to develop
of searching through drummers
something that we’re so excited
into something more than just a
on YouTube I came across
about kept under lock and
one off song or two.
Seb and sent him a message
key. Becca had been writing/
Jamie: I joined EOTS a couple
explaining that we needed a
performing together for almost a
years ago when I was just playing
session drummer for a project
year and felt strongly about the
guitar as a bit of a side hobby.
started by Becca and myself. He
music we were making. However,
They had a different line up
was up for it and after a few jams
it became clear that the music
of members and I saw it as a
and drinks we starting tightening
we were writing together and
chance to make new friends
the songs for the studio. (cont)
Becca: I met James through
What do you think of the
his previous band, Third place
UK rock scene right now?
victory when they asked me to
Jamie: Becca and I have seen a
guest appear on one of their
number of British bands this year
tracks. They were in the midst
and have been really excited with
of splitting up around the time
what’s going on. We can’t wait to
we were considering starting
Will you be touring?
hear the upcoming albums from;
Anavae so we asked if he would
Jamie : We will be as soon as we
Francesca, Futures, You me at six
be willing to help us out with
find a suitable band to do it with.
and Kids in Glass Houses. We’ve
some recording. After we had
Touring is something we all look
noticed how there aren’t many
hung out and worked with them
forward to so it’s definitely on the
female fronted bands around the
on the tracks it became apparent
cards for the coming months.
scene that you can take seriously. It feels like it’s the norm to see
that we wanted them to be full time members and not just
What are the bands main
a girl singer fronting a cheesy
session people. We couldn’t ask
influences?
colourful poppy happy band.
for a better couple of guys to
Becca: At the time me and Jamie
work with. They’re both amazing
were writing for Anavae two of
There’s nothing wrong with that
players and we’re all best mates
our favourite bands, There for
of course, but it’s time for people
which makes everything a lot
Tomorrow and Evaline released
to see a girl singer that is edgier
more fun.
new albums. The sounds they
and deserves a place among the
Jamie: We recorded with Ian
have made us realise that there
great guy singers that are around
Sadler of Emeline productions
was a lot more to be gained
right now like Ashley Wilkie and
which was a great experience. He
through experimenting with
Dan Lawrence. Either way, It’s
was different to other producers
noise and not approaching song
an exciting time to be a part of
that we’ve worked with because
writing with a ‘right and wrong’
the British music for sure!
he took a really active role in
way of doing things.
helping us in developing the
We’ve learnt not to focus too
Head on over and ‘like’
sounds and vibes we wanted
heavily on our musical influences
the bands Facebook page
for the songs. It felt like having
however and feel that it’s
you can download 3 of
a fifth member and we will
important to keep our minds and
the new tracks for free -
definitely be working with him
ideas fresh and clean. This makes
https://www.facebook.
again in the near future.
the music mean a lot more to us.
com/Anavae
soundscape 40
CD reviews Onwards and upwards
the vocal inflections of a rock
though, and with a whole new
‘n’ roll Michael Jackson (you
feel, The Guns have come back
can almost imagine the crotch
with a harder edge. With The
grabs). The brilliant timing
Guns pushed the boundaries
in the album is apparent in
between rock and pop, and
the last line of the bridge that
Fuck The Demon Outta Me
you can barely believe fits, but
pushes it beyond the two
does so perfectly.
genres. The album feels like
the guns
it’s taken a slice of the deep
It’s not just the deep south
fuck the demon outta me
American South and crashed
that The Guns visit however,
Words: Ed Townend
it right into a Blaina recording
the ‘All Aboard’ intro feels
studio. Coming from all sides
like a 50’s jive number before
The Guns are one of those
of rock, the four piece manage
hitting home with a sound
powerhouse rock bands that
to make Fuck The Demon
you won’t find anywhere else
can bust out the colossal
Outta Me almost a concept
except from the vocal chords
hits like “Colder”, get you
album of sorts, full of the
of Alex Wiltshire and the
drinking with “Gordon’s and
blues, voodoo, and a
strings of Adam Turner and
Lemonade” or just simply
lot of very messy women-
Tom Coburn. ‘Treacle & Pie’
laugh with “It’s On Like
related situations.
is set in a classic American
Donkey Kong”. With The Guns
diner, or is that just what the
was one of those albums that
Even the video for ‘Missing
title implies? ‘Answers’ could
really made you sit up and
Girls’ implies this in a creepy
be the result of a bar brawl,
notice, but unfortunately got
voodoo ritual sacrifice
‘Voodoo Boogie’ is straight
lost somewhere in the ether
involving the band. Hard
out of New Orleans, and
around 2007 when it really
edged drums, pained guitar
‘You Drive, I’ll Eat This’ is
should’ve made them big.
hits, thumping bass and all
obviously on the road. [cont]
The entire album is also all
It’s the cleanest way to be
cause I haven’t got it” that the
about entertainment. It’s
over the top.
song has real meaning, but it’s still a song that can be enjoyed
a variety show of rock, but still managing to keep a pop
The lyrics, as in With The
without hearing the lyrics.
aesthetic, showing that rock
Guns are always the highlight.
Lacklustre points are there
music can risk being catchy
“I’ve got news for your ass,
though, the first track
and still hit the spot.
I’m addicted to love” sums
‘Daughter of a Bad Man’ is a
up the unashamedly dogged
strange way to start, and a bit
The power of The Guns
appreciation of women in
of a shame it wasn’t just an
live doesn’t come across on
‘Treacle & Pie’, bragging in
intro, taking up an entire track
record, so the pop is there
‘Voodoo Boogie’ “I’m more
on the album where a belter
to sucker you in. The vocals
rock ‘n’ roll than you will ever
like Colder could have been.
are powerfully diverse, with
see” and the refrain “We’ll
The album itself has some
a natural Welsh goodness.
never slow down, never take
really strong single tracks
Falsetto is used in a
it easy” in ‘All Aboard’ is
like ‘Missing Girls’, ‘Treacle &
completely viable and non-
repeated in ‘You Drive, I’ll Eat
Pie’ and ‘Answers’, but unlike
lame way (see The Darkness).
This’ “Don’t ever stop, stop.
With The Guns it does feel as
The Guns are not shy of
Won’t ever stop, stop.”
though some tracks are filler, whereas every track on the
straying into the cliché a little, but they do so with finesse and
The best bits of the album
superb style.
include Answers as an angst,
debut was an instant hit.
dissonant tearaway which
The final track ‘Stranger Than
The meaty riffs are all there,
departs from the debut’s
You’ adopts a faux-bluegrass
with the full on power track
playfulness to a full on
feel, once again adding that
‘Answers’ and ‘Treacle &
fuck-you. Dropping riffs for
American element. Honestly
Pie’ has them bursting at the
feedback and string scrapes,
one of the cooler tracks on
seams. The drums are so key
the full force of the track
the album, it shows that they
to powering each track and
comes into the howl “give
simply do not care about any
always hit the mark, never
me a fucking break!” It’s
pre-conceptions; they make
straying too far into being
more apparent in lines like
the music that sounds cool
overblown. The bass is always
“We leave the answers in the
when they play it. And this
dirty and always relevant.
bottle” and “I only want it
album certainly is cool.
general middle finger and
claustrophobia of the guitars,
an amp full of invective to
it works surprisingly well.
the Neighbourhood Watch.
Until the odd, choppy break
The three-piece share vocal
about 2 minutes in – not sure
duties, according to their bio,
why they bother breaking up
and to be honest, I couldn’t
the flow with it, and it doesn’t
tell one from another, not
really add anything special.
that that’s a bad thing. That
That lapses into an extended
opener I mentioned earlier
instrumental coda which
sounds like the Vines at their
doesn’t do anything, although
raw-throated best with the
as a means to showcase how
Surrey, wonderfully poa-sh,
chorus aggressively shouted
good they are with their
isn’t it? Guildford conjures
at you – if they ever remade
instruments, they’re plenty
up images of Joanna Lumley
Road Rash, this would be the
proficient.
prancing around leafy suburbs
soundtrack to you clubbing
where they still have weekly
someone over the head and
Metronomic drums and swirling
bin collections and people
nicking their bike, it’s not
guitars take us into a proper
thoroughly embrace that
just uneasy, the driving
chorus anthem in ‘Hail! Hail!’,
whole Big Society nonsense. So
guitars immediately take an
that quickly fades to annoying
it seems entirely incongruous
adversarial stance and don’t
faux-American accents – it’s
that Ghost of the Highway
care how you react.
perfectly acceptable to sing in
ghost of the high way Hope and other 4 letter words
Words: Ryan crittenden
Estuary English, fellas – and
would base themselves there. Those guitars work against
doesn’t really live up to the
You see, from the opening riff
each other on ‘Vultures’, with
promise of what is a fantastic
of ‘One Night Stand’, Ghost
another smooth riff, a less
intro. It doesn’t last particularly
happily position themselves
polished Audioslave, although
long, and after the nodding
as a band who enjoy sticky
the vocals are plenty effected,
approval of the opening 20
floored gig venues, sickly
the old standard of hi-pass
seconds or so, most of it lapses
shades of unidentified liquids
and echo being used for
into indifference.
splashed on walls and a
atmosphere, and against the
That opening is probably the
which as a band develops
It’s far exceeding the other nine
highlight of the EP for me,
(they’ve been together a year),
bands prior. Thankfully they’ve
which is why it’s such a
they’ll iron out. I get the feeling
gone the opposite way many
shame that they can’t maintain
they may have to leave the
local bands have gone lately, in
that quality.
sweatbox venues behind and
that all of a sudden hard ‘lets
into leafier digs. Encouraging.
be angry’ core is cool to do.
Which brings us to the finale.
Looking angry has never been
‘March of the Pigs’ begins as
so over played.
an altogether grungier affair, Nirvana by numbers if you will.
This EP has the following: a
Chorus seems to borrow the
perfect structure, first-rate
same vocal pattern as Umbrella-
melodies, suitably placed and
ella-ella which was unnerving
not over baring breakdowns,
in itself but ignore that and it
a singer that doesn’t sound
isn’t too bad, cleaner vocals
like he’s constantly angry at
showing that in this case, lower production actually adds to
our people vs your people lights Ep
someone, killer drum beats and appropriate length songs. These four tracks are better than other
the track. There isn’t really a swinging destroy the drumkit
Whether it’s the unfortunate
entire albums. Each it’s own
finale though, just a couple of
list of CDs I’ve just plummeted
force, fiery and ardent. The EP
bent chords and a sudden stop.
through or the luck of the draw
has a sense that time has been
that I’ve been given the job to
spent on production. Truly a
There’s a swagger to Ghost of
review Essex five piece Our
band to keep on your radar, a
the Highway, that confident
people Vs Yours. When their
stunning EP.
growl and presence is there in
Lights EP finally comes blaring
spades and but for a few foibles,
out my headphones I’m astounded.
soundscape 44
Words: N. Ballantyne
comes into play harder than
As nice as the guy is, he’s not
pervious tracks along with that
made for hardcore. To put it
‘experimental’ vibe the band
briefly, he essentially ruins the
were going for in full force and
album with his vocals. Although
totally destroys the EP.
to be fair, this is punk-rock, hardcore, call it what you will
history of the hawk ocean
I’ll be honest, this EP was a smidgen inconsistent for me. There are thoroughly striking moments and engaging tracks
Track ‘Little Parisians’ starts off
but most bands in this genre
wickedly enchanting but turns
can’t shout, or choose not to.
into a squabbling shouting match, and it ain’t pretty. A
Surely this makes it more raw,
very 90s essence lingers across
heartfelt, angry or emotional I
the EP, very reminiscent of the
hear you ask? No, no it doesn’t.
experimental hardcore genre in
You can shout in a way that
that era, but there’s a reason it
carries your voice powerfully
should of died there too.
and melodically, yet retains that
Words: N Ballantyne
raw essence.
goodtime boys
Minus the vocals, musically this
but then the ‘experimental’ parts come into play and it suddenly becomes a hideous mess. With a little fine tuning
are we now, or have we ever been
these lads could have a very fine EP on their hands.
Remember that squeaky one from The Automatic? Well he’s
It starts off strong with ‘X Is
back with another hardcore
The New Y’ and continues until
band but this time covered in
you hid the second half where
more tattoos, shouting some
it all goes wrong. A slightly
more and unafraid to get dirty
wailing second overlaying vocal
when it comes to playing shows.
could be a great little record, but you get the gist. Check out strongest tracks ‘Deaner’s Last Weekend’ and ‘Wake’. Words: N Ballantyne
top3
Part of the Soundscape team list their top 3 albums,
best movie
best live
best album
movies and bands they saw in 2011
Paul Esp (Interviewer/Reviewer)
Ed Townend (Reviewer/Photographer)
Deaf Havana – Fools And Worthless Liars
Doomtree – No Kings
Butch Walker – The Spade
Johnny Foreigner – Johnny Foreigner vs Everything
Every Avenue – Bad Habits
Los Campesinos – Hello Sadness
Anneka Sillitoe (Editor/Reviewer)
Nadine Ballantyne (Photographer/Graphics)
Brigade – Will Be Will Be
Suicide Silence – The Black Crown
Limp Bizkit – Gold Cobra
Amsterdam Red Light District – I’m Not Insane
Foo Fighters – Wasting Light
Exit International – Black Junk
Paul Esp (Interviewer/Reviewer)
Ed Townend (Reviewer/Photographer)
Butch Walker
Dananananaykroyd
Incubus
Jimmy Eat World
Tiger Please
Queens Of The Stone Age
Anneka Sillitoe (Editor/Reviewer)
Nadine Ballantyne (Photographer/Graphics)
Flood Of Red
Queens Of The Stone Age
Brigade
Slipknot
My Chemical Romance
Every Time I Die
Paul Esp (Interviewer/Reviewer)
Ed Townend (Reviewer/Photographer)
The Hangover 2
Midnight In Paris
Tangled
Friends With Benefits
Captain America
Submarine
Anneka Sillitoe (Editor/Reviewer)
Nadine Ballantyne (Photographer/Graphics)
Captain America
Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes
Thor
X-Men: First Class
Pirates Of The Caribbean
Scream 4
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