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New Bands to check out ... // Nieuwe bands...
please see below for all our tips from 2005 onwards ...
The AAPA Monthly PLAY LIST usually gives you the best new music tips first!
October 2009
EMILY SMITH is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter with a fantastic voice, who comes from Dumfriesshire in the South West of Scotland. So far she has made a huge impact in the Scottish Folk scene having released three albums; "A Day Like Today" (2002), "A Different Life" (2005) and "Too Long Away" (April 2008) on independent labels. She is out touring across the UK with her band during October and November, while early next year she is set to play almost 20 gigs in New Zealand with an Australian tour set to commence in March 2010. More info, including details on her new album "Adoon Winding Nith" which is due out next month, can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/emilysmithband
Summer 2009
BAD LIEUTENANT are not so much a new band in that they are fronted by none other than New Order's founding member Bernard Sumner. In 2007 they formed as a band in Manchester, which also features Phil Cunningham (New Order / Marion) on guitar and newcomer Jake Evans on lead vocals. They have recorded and mixed their debut album and also enlisted the help of Blur’s Alex James and New Order drummer Stephen Morris. Their debut single ‘Sink or Swim’ is expected to be released next month (probably 21st September) - More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/badlieutenantmusic
June 2009
SHE KEEPS BEES are a bass-less boy/girl duo from Brooklyn, who say they are influenced by the likes of Otis Redding, Grace Jones, Nina Simone, and Joan Armatrading, but sound more like they are the missing link between Mazzy Star, Nina Simone and PJ Harvey, with a bit of The Carpenters or Patti Smith thrown in for good measure! A few years ago (at the time of their debut album) they had been described as an indie soul-blues two piece, but have since been compared to The White Stripes (only in reverse roles) and Blood Red Shoes. Their debut album "Minisink Hotel" was released over in the States back in 2006, and their latest album "Nests" came out last year, which they have now followed up with the "Revival" EP in Europe which was released last month (May 2009) and is available through the Rough Trade Records shop (code: CDS names35cd) - She Keeps Bees (SKB) will be touring across Europe from June to September, and they are playing various dates in France and across the UK, along with one date so far in the Benelux region, in Middelburg, on 3rd July. SKB are Jessica Larrabee on vocals and guitar, and Andy LaPlant on drums, and are ones to keep an eye out for. You can watch them at a recent gig perform the song 'Wear Red' at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aE3Mcyq4X3U - More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/shekeepsbees
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May 2009
BYE BYE JOHNNY are an upcoming 5-piece band from Rochdale who have emerged from Manchester’s underground punk scene, and who are influenced by The Sex Pistols, Buzzcocks, Ramones, and the punk and Ska scenes from the late 70s, and have been compared with both The Clash and The Specials on recent single 'Take Cover With Me' (which you can listen to on their MySpace site) - Their latest single 'Carry Me' has just been released as a digital download. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/byebyejohnnylive
April 2009
THE CROOKES describe themselves as "four arts students from Sheffield, heavily influenced by 60's pop and all things quintessentially English, and that their live shows almost always include sing-alongs, unplugged songs, a range of instrument swapping and war-time romance..." which sounds a bit like they could be a cross between FIELD MUSIC and iLiKETRAiNS? (and we mean that in a very positive way!) - They have recently been receiving air-time on BBC Radio One, and their first release "A Collier's Wife/ By The Seine" will be out on limited edition 7" vinyl through the Too Pure label. We recommend that you give them a listen! More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thecrookesmusic
One of the bands to make an impression during SXSW last month in Texas were LOVE LIKE FIRE, a 4-piece from Las Vegas, who are signed to the UK indie label Heist Or Hit Records, and who are influenced and sound a bit like Siouxsie & The Banshees, with a late 80s / early 90s indie sound thrown into the mix (The Sundays, The Cranberries and Garbage have all been mentioned, so surely nobody should then forget Curve!) - They are set to release 'William' as a single on 6th April, while their debut album "Tear Ourselves Away" is expected to be out during the summer. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/lovelikefire
March 2009
BURN THE NEGATIVE are a 4-piece from one of the most North Western parts of England (Carlisle) who describe themselves as the saviours of new-wave electronica pop, providing us with a unique concoction of energetic trashy disco blended with electro beats, new romantic rhythms and the spirit of ‘70s punk, ‘80s rock and ‘90s house, and who have been influenced by the likes of David Sylvian & Japan, Gary Numan, Sonic Youth, and David Bowie. Others have quoted Ultravox, and that man Giorgio Moroder is being mentioned again! (see previous features below on Passion Pit and Little Boots from earlier this year) - Burn The Negative will be releasing their debut album "In The Atmosphere" (Gung Ho! Records) next month (27th April) - More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/burnthenegative
OFFICIAL SECRETS ACT are a 4-piece indie pop band from London who built up a really good reputation last year while playing dates all over the UK, while in one review their singer (Tom Burke) has already been compared to sounding somewhere between Robert Smith from The Cure and David Byrne from Talking Heads (?) - They have just released the single 'The Girl From The BBC' (which you can listen to on their MySpace site), while their debut album "Understanding Electricity" (One Little Indian) is out later this month on 30th March. They are also doing a UK tour in March & April, including 7 dates supporting The Rakes in April. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/officialsecretsact
DUTCH UNCLES are a 5-piece indie band from Manchester, who have just released their self titled debut album on the till now obscure German indie label Tapete Records, and who have been drawing comparisons to bands like Foals, and who the NME recently described as drawing a line between the first Futureheads album and Vampire Weekend. Next month (April), they are out supporting Dananananaykroyd across the UK, and will release 'Face In' as a single to coincide. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/dutchuncles
Remember, the AAPA Monthly PLAY LIST usually gives you the best new music tips first!
SCHOOL OF SEVEN BELLS are a female fronted 3-piece from Brooklyn, who consist of twin sisters (Claudia and Alejandra Deheza) and former Secret Machines guitarist Benjamin Curtis, who are influenced by the shoegaze and indie electronica scene from the early 90`s (a bit like Cocteau Twins meeting New Order) and have been called a dream-pop band. Over in the States, they released their debut album "Alpinisms" (Ghostly International) towards the end of last year, while in the UK it was released last month (23rd February) - SVIIB have just completed a brief UK tour, and are due to return in the coming months when they will be out supporting both Bat For Lashes and White Lies - More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/schoolofsevenbells
Several years ago, SNOWFIGHT IN THE CITY CENTRE were an indie band from Manchester that were influenced by New Order, Bowie and Sigur Ros. They first came to our attention during ITC 2006, and then had their single 'Six Seconds' included in our Monthly Playlist back in April 2007 - Since then that band have split up but three of the band members have now become the 80`s indie scene influenced DELPHIC - who are still based in Manchester, who recently signed a deal with Polydor Records, and spent February out on tour across Europe supporting Bloc Party. They also have 'Counterpoint' as a single out this month (see also our playlist for March 2009). The Guardian newspaper recently reported that "Delphic could be the best new band in Manchester, as they evoke the spirit of its Hacienda days in a forward-thinking, indie-rave type way". Their debut album is expected to be released later this year. More info, including the video for 'Counterpoint', can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/delphic
February 2009
MAGIC ARM is the alias of Marc Rigelsford, a talented multi-instrumentalist from Manchester who’s electro-tinged folk pop and lo-fi electronica, has been tipped as one to watch and a hot prospect in the near future. This month (on 23rd February) he will be releasing the "Bootsy Bootsy" EP on Switchflicker Records, the Manchester based indie label who were the ones that first released The Ting Tings single "Thats Not My Name" back in June 2007. In April of last year the BBC said: "It’s easy to get carried away when you talk about Magic Arm. Words like lush, beautiful and sumptuous come rushing to your lips and you get a little bit over excited, but the truth is that Marc’s music really deserves the gathering ballyhoo around it. If last year’s "Outdoor Games" EP is anything to go by, the upcoming album could be something very special." No live dates yet planned for the Benelux region but one to watch out fior in the future. More info can be found on his MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/magicarm
After the breakthrough last year of Laura Marling, we will see the arrival of another young singer songwriter as 2009 gets under way - POLLY SCATTERGOOD has already been described (by The Telegraph newspaper) as being " ... like a 21st Century lo-fi Kate Bush crossed with PJ Harvey mixing microbeats and electric guitars”. She is from London, signed to Mute Records last year, and descibed herself in a recent interview by saying "I don’t see myself as a singer-songwriter, or even a singer. I would describe myself as a songwriter who sings". Polly will be releasing the single “Other Too Endless” - which has also received a dance re-mix by Vince Clarke (Depeche Mode, Erasure) - later this month, and her self titled debut album is expected to be out in March or in May 2009 (depending on which press release you read) - More info (along with the chance to hear the Vince Clarke remix) can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/pollyscattergood
PASSION PIT are a Big Beat Pop band from Cambridge (USA) and describe themselves as making colourful and cerebral electronica, combining layers of sunny vocals, warped samples, glitchy beats and euphoric effects with a sturdy rhythmic backbone, and just like LITTLE BOOTS (see below under January 2009) also quote Giorgio Moroder (Donna Summer, "Midnight Express" soundtrack in the 70`s) as an influence. They are touring across the UK in February and are signed to the Columbia label in Europe. Their debut album is expected to hit the shops before the summer and will probably do as well as MGMT did last year! More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/passionpitjams
January 2009
2009 is the year that will see the welcome return of THE SPECIALS and probably more gigs by MADNESS, and KID BRITISH are a ska, reggae, electro pop and indie influenced band from Manchester who according to a lot of people are going to be the next big thing to come out of the city. They have signed to the Mercury/Universal label, are out touring across the UK in March and April supporting THE ENEMY, and their music has been described as a mixture of Blur, Gorillaz, The Specials, Madness and The Streets! - One to watch out for in 2009. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/kidbritishmusic
LITTLE BOOTS is the alias of Victoria Hesketh, who left all girl indie pop band DEAD DISCO to pursue a solo pop path and has since teamed up with Joe Goddard (HOT CHIP) - She is said to be influenced by the likes of Joni Mitchell, David Bowie and Kate Bush and electronic pioneers like Giorgio Moroder and Gary Numan, and has been described as a harder, shinier SAINT ETIENNE (see also our monthly playlist for January 2009), playing catchy, credible futuristic pop and in November 2008 she appeared live on BBC2`s Later with Jools Holland show with the song 'Meddle'. Earlier this month she came top of the BBC Sound of 2009 list (that also included WHITE LIES) which predicts the brightest new music stars to watch out for. Her debut album is expected to be released later this year. You can watch her performing 'Meddle' at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJmpQptN6vU - More info can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/littlebootsmusic
Remember, the AAPA Monthly PLAY LIST usually gives you the best new music tips first!
FIGHT LIKE APES are a New Wave, Shoegaze, post-Punk band from Dublin who are influenced by the likes of Siouxsie and the Banshees, Devo, Sonic Youth, Roxy Music and Talking Heads, have been receiving great live reviews, are to play about fifteen gigs across the UK during February 2009. Back in September 2008 it has been reported that their debut album "Fight Like Apes and the Mystery of the Golden Medallion" reached the Top 10 of the Irish Album charts, and in early 2009 they are to release 'Tie Me Up With Jackets' as a single, with the album set to get a full European release. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/fightlikeapesmusic
KARIMA FRANCIS is a singer from Blackpool who moved to Manchester, with a voice that has already been compared to the likes of Adele, and who is expected to make a similar impact in 2009 to what Duffy did last year. She was discovered by the music industry at the annual IN THE CITY event in Manchester last year, was then snapped up by Kitchenware Records (home of Editors and Prefab Sprout) and her debut single 'Chasing The Morning Light' (from the end of 2008) has been described as a robust fusion of rock and soul in the style of Alanis Morissette or Tracy Chapman. Her debut album "The Author" (Kitchenware) is now expected to be released in March, with a UK tour to coincide. More info can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/karimafrancis
For a review and history of IN THE CITY (from 2006 & 2007) go - > HERE
December 2008
The debut album from Australian duo EMPIRE OF THE SUN made it into their national Album Top 10, and as 2009 unfolds we should see this duo (Luke Steele & Nick Littlemore) make an impact in Europe. They have been described as being influenced by the early eighties new romantic and synth-pop scenes. Their album "Walking On A Dream" (Virgin) is set to be released in the UK on Monday 16th February, which includes the single 'We Are The People'. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/empireofthesunsound
FLORENCE & THE MACHINE has been described as a singer-songwriter in the grand tradition of Kate Bush, Bjork or PJ Harvey. Florence Welch (photo) makes music that is familiar, joyful and accessible while still uncompromising, fresh and eccentric. Since the summer, her gigs over in the UK have been receiving some really good reviews along with support slots with MGMT, recent single 'Dog Days Are Over' (Moshi Moshi Records) was included in our Monthly Playlist for December, while her as yet untitled debut album has been produced by James Ford (Simian Mobile Disco, Arctic Monkeys & Klaxons) and is expected to get a Spring 2009 release - One to watch out for as 2009 gets under way. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/florenceandthemachinemusic
One of the hotly tipped bands for 2009 are WHITE LIES who are an indie rock band from London with epic vocals, who have already been compared to Editors and Echo & The Bunnymen, and appear influenced by Joy Division, Depeche Mode, and that early 80`s electro new wave sound. We can also hear Julian Cope (& Teardrop Explodes) and possibly a touch of Visage, and several of their singles have already been included on our Monthly Playlists. Their debut album "To Lose My LIfe" (Polydor) is out in January, they are out on tour across the UK in February, and expected to play some gigs during March in Europe. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/whitelies
November 2008
LITTLE DEATH are a 3-piece art-rock indie band who are based in London, who recently released their debut "untitled" 6 track mini album. Described by some as a cross between a pre-Britpop indie band from the early 90`s and Smashing Pumpkins they stand out from the current London scene, and are building up a solid fanbase and have a great live reputation. Hopefully ones to watch out for in 2009? More info (including how to get your hands on a copy of their mini album) can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/lovelittledeath
Remember, the AAPA Monthly PLAY LIST usually gives you the best new music tips first!
October 2008
MANDA RIN used to front indie pop band BIS back in the late 90`s. She is receiving very positive reviews up in Scotland and her solo debut single 'DNA' is out now. More info can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/musicmandarin
RED LIGHT COMPANY are a London based indie band who have been listening to the likes of Joy Division and Interpol, and who also appear to be influenced by recent bands like Arcade Fire, Editors and Snow Patrol. They are touring across the UK during October and November, and are set to release 'Scheme Eugene' (Lavolta Records) as a single on 3rd November. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/redlightcompany
September 2008
TWIN ATLANTIC are an alternative power pop band from Glasgow who have already been selling out their own gigs in Scotland, were recently praised by Kerrang Magazine, and are on tour across the UK with The Subways next month (October) - They have a single - What Is Light? Where Is Laughter? - out on 29th September which is released through the Scottish based King Tuts Recordings label. More info about the band can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/twinatlantic
CAGE THE ELEPHANT are an indie rock band from Kentucky. Back in June they released 'Aint No Rest For The Wicked' as a single and it was a summer radio hit over in the UK, while 'Free Love' had been a single back in November 2007 - Their self titled debut album has been released on Relentless Records, and opening track 'In One Ear' is to be the third single taken from the album and is out on 6th October. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/cagetheelephant
ANNI ROSSI has just recorded her debut album with producer Steve Albini for 4AD Records and it is expected to be released either late this year or early 2009. In the meantime she is to release the "Afton" EP on 20th October. Described as being somewhere inbetween Bjork, PJ Harvey, Joanna Newsom and Liz Green, we recommend you give her a listen and make your own minds up! More info can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/annirossi
Remember, the AAPA Monthly PLAY LIST usually gives you the best new music tips first!
Summer / Zomer 2008
PEARL AND THE PUPPETS are best described as an acoustic indie pop band based in Glasgow who are fronted by singer and songwriter Katie Sutherland, who with her very distinctive voice looks set to follow in the footsteps of other Scottish singers like KT Tunstall and Amy MacDonald. Katie recently signed a publishing deal with Warner/Chappell, and has been recording with former Blur / The Smiths / Kaiser Chiefs producer Stephen Street. Aside from writing songs on her own, she has also co-written with the likes of Deacon Blue`s Ricky Ross. One to watch out for in the not too distant future! More info about the band can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/pearlandthepuppets
APPIE KIM are Natasha van Waardenburg on vocals and lead guitar and Marcel Duin on drums en keyboards. They first appeared on the gig scene last year after Natasha`s original band (De Nieuwe Vrolijkheid) appeared to disappear overnight and she then continued with Marcel as a 2-piece and went on to release their debut album (=AOK) on the Willie Anderson Recordings label last October and were described by one English fanzine as creating delightfully fizzy indie-pop with serious bite. Since then they have built up a very good live reputation and have been compared to the likes of Mazzy Star and Blood Red Shoes. They have just released '5 Strings' as a brand new vinyl single and are about to play some live dates across The Netherlands, and are ones to watch out for. Go to our GIG LISTINGS section for more info on the live dates. More info about the band can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/appiekim
ARISTOCRASH are a 2-piece glam rock influenced band who formed in Manchester several years ago, although both members originally come from Nottingham (Sean) and Glasgow (Pauline). They say that their influences come from the likes of T-Rex, Roxy Music, Sparks and Talking Heads, and describe themselves as "loud, colourful glam-tinged rock-power-pop" and strive to make their live shows "serious fun". Possibly best described as the link between GOLDFRAPP and THE TING TINGS they are ones to keep an eye on in the future. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/aristocrash
JAGUAR LOVE are a 3-piece indie art punk rock band from Portland, Oregon, comprising of ex-members of Blood Brothers and Pretty Girls Make Graves, who signed to Matador Records at the beginning of the year. Some say that they sound a little bit like The Mars Volta and Jane's Addiction, but the vocals from singer Johnny Whitney really makes them stand out amongst the surge of alt-rock bands that have been coming over from the states this year - Jay Clark (drums, bass and keyboards) and Cody Votolato (guitars) complete their line-up. In June 2008 they did a brief tour across Austria, Germany and France, as well as appearing last month at the T in The Park Festival in Scotland and a smallish venue in London. They have already released 'Highways of Gold' as a single on 7" vinyl, and on 19th August are set to release their debut album "Take Me To The Sea", and therefore a full European Tour is expected towards the end of the year.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/jaguarloveband
Before singer Raissa Khan-Panni (photo) set up THE MUMMERS she had released several albums in the mid to late 90`s under the name Raissa (on Polydor Records) and had toured with the likes of SUEDE - Now she is based in Brighton, and since 2006 has teamed up with Mark Horwood and Paul Sandrone, and along with the help of guest musicians providing keyboard, double bass, violin, cello, drums and even a trombone sound she has recorded a mini album entitled "Tale to Tell" which should be out later this year. On initial listen, Raissa sounds like she has been heavily influenced by the likes of Björk, Bat for Lashes (who by coincidence are also based in Brighton) and Joanna Newsom, but you can also hear Cocteau Twins and Portishead. More info can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/themummers
Remember, the AAPA Monthly PLAY LIST usually gives you the best new music tips first!
The Twisted Wheel was a nightclub in Manchester during the 60`s that was frequented by Mods which then started playing soul music and ended up becoming the birthplace of Northern Soul. Upcoming indie rock band TWISTED WHEEL are a band from Oldham (near Manchester) who say they are influenced by the Happy Mondays but sound like they could also have been influenced by the likes of The Jam, Arctic Monkeys, The Fall and The Clash. They first came to our attention during the annual IN THE CITY international music convention last year and then signed to Columbia Records. They released their debut single 'She's A Weapon' earlier this year, are set to release 'You Stole The Sun' as their next single later this month (on Monday 28th July) and are currently touring across the UK, while their debut album is now scheduled for an early 2008 release. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thetwistedwheel
You can also find our previous article about them and other bands who made an impression during ITC 2007 (from October 2007) - > HERE
MAGISTRATES are a band from Essex who have been influenced by Bowie, Talking Heads and Prince, and also remind us of white funk bands from the 80`s. They have a prominent keyboard sound, and are probably best described as being indie funk! (or to those old enough to remember, early 80`s arty new wave band FASHION also spring to mind) and should appeal to those who like current bands like Hot Chip and/or Hard-Fi. They are currently touring the UK and on 4th August are set to release their debut single 'Make This Work' on the XL Recordings/SWF label. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/magistratesband
THE BEEP SEALS are a 5-piece indie pop band from Manchester who first came to our attention when they played at last years IN THE CITY music convention - They have a rather distinctive sound whilst at the same time being influenced by the likes of Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Neil Young and even Fleetwood Mac. They have since signed to Heron Records and have just delivered a great debut album entitled "Things That Roar". More info (incl. live dates) and selected tracks can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/beepseals
June 2008
RED VINYL FUR were first featured by AAPA towards the end of last year after an impressive gig during the annual IN THE CITY international music convention. The all girl punk rock band from Manchester have just released their debut single 'Take What You Want' earlier this week (16th June) on Ditch The Bitch records, and they are set to appear at Glastonbury Festival next weekend (on 27th June) - RED VINYL FUR are Chelle (vocals), Kara (guitar), Sue (Bass) & Nadene (Drums) - They are reported to be a great live band and over the past year they have toured up and down the UK supporting the likes of The Enemy, Babes In Toyland, TV On The Radio and Ida Maria.
More info and selected tracks can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/redvinylfur
May 2008
Back in the early to mid 90`s CURVE (fronted by Toni Halliday) were probably the most exciting industrial indie rock band on the planet! CHATELAINE is not so much a new band but in fact the brand new project by TONI HALLIDAY - During and since her time in CURVE, Toni has also had successful collaborative stints with the likes of LEFTFIELD (on their "Leftism" album), The Future Sound of London, Paul Van Dyk, and most recently THE KILLERS. To get more background info got to our ALBUM REVIEWS section (from Summer 2005) for our review of the 2 CD album "The Way of Curve" (BMG / Anxious Records - 2004) - The great news for 2008 is that Toni is currently working on an as yet untitled album and selected tracks can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/chatelainemusic
April 2008
FILM NOIR WORLD was created in 2007 by Mark Johnson who is based in Nottingham. He describes his music as a world of escapism, where things may be dark but there can be light inside. With big influences from dramatic cinema, Mark wants to create sounds that can take your breath away, make the hairs stand on the back of your neck, or simply just scare the bejuses out of you. He already has his debut album "Dark Earth" out through Nashville Noir Records (as download only at this stage) and it is highly recommended from our end. More info and a chance to listen to some of his tracks can be found on his MySpace site at: http://www. myspace.com/filmnoirworld
NAVVY are a new wave, punk, garage pop band from Sheffield, consisting of two girls and two lads influenced by the likes of The Fall, Talking Heads, The Raincoats (Kurt Cobain`s favourite band?), Wire and The Breeders, who recently released an EP entitled "Four Songs By Navvy" through the UK indie label ARC (Angular Recording Corporation). They have been receiving some good press from people in the know in nearby Manchester and are ones to watch out for as the year unfolds.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www. myspace.com/navvypop
Remember, the AAPA Monthly PLAY LIST usually gives you the best new music tips first!
March 2008
KYTE are a 5-piece post (orchestral) rock band from Leicester who released their debut self titled, 7 track mini album on 18th February 2008 through Kids Records which includes their recent single Boundaries. They are touring the UK and Ireland with iLiKETRAiNS during April and May, followed by their own tour of Japan in May. Possibly influenced by the likes of Sigur Ros and Boards of Canada, they still have their own distinctive epic and rather theatrical sound to ensure that they will also go on to build up their own fan base, ... while also appealing to moody students and any disillusioned Goths out there! More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www. myspace.com/kyteband
THE SISTERS OF TRANSISTORS are a combo organ quartet and Ladies Social Club from Manchester who have recently been described as a feminine quartet performing surf symphonies, baroque disco prog rock and classic horror film sound tracks. They are complemented on stage by having Graham Massey (ex 808 state) on drums. They have been receiving some great live reviews over in the UK and it wouldn't surprise us if they were to become one of the hits during this years summer festivals.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www. myspace.com/thesistersoftransistors
February 2008
THE CONSPIRATORS are a five-piece indie band from York consisting of 3 lads and two girls, who say they are influenced by a wide range of artists including David Bowie, Rolling Stones, Blondie, The Police, The Clash and The Beach Boys. They are signed to indie label Transcend Records and have their debut double AA side single ‘One Sure Thing‘ (with Judy Dyble, ex Fairport Convention) / ‘Take Me To Your Leader‘ out on Monday 3rd March. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/theconspiratorsuk
BROKEN RECORDS are a seven-piece band from Edinburgh who have been going for just over a year. They create a sound combining traditional European folk with modern Scottish alternative music, being influenced by the likes of Nick Cave, Jeff Buckley, Calexico, Bob Dylan, Sigur Ros, Johnny Cash, Arcade Fire and Beirut. They made a big impression on the live circuit in Scotland during 2007, which also included live sessions on BBC Radio One in Scotland and BBC 6 Music. Their self titled debut (or GIG) EP, which contains four songs ('if the news makes you sad don't watch it','a good reason','lies' & 'slow parade') has received great reviews and has been available to purchase at all gigs and through their MySpace account. The band are expected to make their European Festival debut this year and are ones to watch out for as 2008 progresses. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/brokenrecordsedinburgh
BLACK KIDS are a Florida five-piece who create a collision of cool indie and 1980s pop - A kind of mix between Arcade Fire, The Cure and The Human League. They released the EP "Wizard of Ahhhs" in the summer of 2007 and their popularity across the internet grew. During February and March 2008 they are out touring across the UK with Kate Nash and Sons & Daughters, with live dates on the European mainland being lined up for the summer. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/blackkidsrock
GLASVEGAS are an indie band from Glasgow, with a taste for orchestral music and classical music, who mix vintage rock and pop with moody guitars, and who have already been compared to the JESUS & MARY CHAIN. They are probably the hottest unsigned band in the world at the moment but that is expected to change soon as it is rumoured that the majority of record labels are chasing their signature! - The NME recently rated their song 'Daddy's Gone' as one of the best tracks of 2007, and so with promo and press apparently already in place GLASVEGAS are definitely a band to watch out for in 2008! More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/glasvegas
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January 2008
FOALS are a punk-funk five-piece band from Oxford and recently made an impact whilst appearing live on BBC2`s "Later with Jools Holland". Their sound has been described as pulsating guitars and fluorescent dance beats, all laced with impassioned, impatient vocals! They say their influences lie far outside the mainstream and they try to defy the conventional approach at every turn. Signed to Transgressive Records, their new single 'Cassius' will be out on 10th March, followed by their debut album "Antidotes" which will be released on 24th March. They are playing various dates in France during February and already have a sold out UK tour in March. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/foals
Although most people are likely to remember MARIJNE VAN DER VLUGT as one of the first MTV Europe VJ`s back in the early 90`s, the former Dutch model was also the lead singer and co-writer with British indie pop band SALAD who went onto release several albums during the mid 90`s on Island Records and were very much part of that initial Brit Pop explosion (other female fronted bands from that period included Elastica, Echobelly and Sleeper). In 1995, Marijne also did a really cool duet with Terry Hall (The Specials) with a cover of 'Dream A Little Dream' that was recorded for the War Child charity album "Help" (Go Discs Records), which also included exclusive contributions from the likes of Blur, Radiohead, Oasis, Portishead, Stone Roses, The KLF and Massive Attack, and which became one of the most popular compilation albums from the entire Brit Pop period. Fast forward to the present and Marijne is currently working on an as yet untitled album with her new band COWBOY RACER - One of their songs - 'Yellow Horse' - has already been included on the soundtrack to the popular US TV series "Grey`s Anatomy". More info and selected tracks can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/cowboyracermusic
The direct link to that "Help" album can be found by going to: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Help-Artists-War-Child-Various/dp/B000001FJ7
CLOCKS are a young indie power pop band from London, who impress by saying that they are influenced by the likes of The Kinks, Small Faces, REM, the legendary Marc Bolan and The Jam, although score lesser points by at times sounding a bit like Oasis. Earlier this month (January 2008) they released their debut single 'All I Can' on Island Records and reports reach us that they are an excellent live band. They are set to be out touring across the UK between February and April 2008 (with an incredible 40 dates lined up so far!) and are expected to release their as yet untitled debut album during the summer of 2008. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/clocks
Does it offend you, yeah? are an electro rock band who first came to our attention during last years IN THE CITY where they were one of the highlights of the annual music event that prides itself on constantly discovering the best new bands. So far this 4-piece from Reading have built up an excellent live reputation (the played a gig at the Rotown in Rotterdam earlier this month), and been compared to the likes of both Daft Punk and Muse. They have since signed to Virgin Records and their debut album "you have no idea what you're getting yourself into" will be released on 17th March. During February and March they are out touring the UK (with over 30 gigs) - More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/doesitoffendyou
LAURA MARLING is a British folk-pop singer-songwriter who initially came to our attention last October when she was refused admission into her own gig in London because she looked too young! (it turns out however that although she already has a record deal with Virgin Records she is in fact only 17 year old) - Laura recently released the single 'Ghosts', has an impressive singing voice, and even appears to be influenced in part by PORTISHEAD. She is set to release her debut album "Alas I Cannot Swim" through Virgin in February 2008.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/lauramarling
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December 2007
THE TING TINGS are an exciting 2-piece indie band from Salford (Greater Manchester) consisting of Katie White and Jules de Martino who have been influenced by the likes of Talking Heads, The Police and Björk. So far they have released 'Fruit Machine' and 'That`s Not My Name' as independent singles, their songs having been described as lush pop melodies and loops that stay in your head longer than the best advertising jingles. They recently toured the UK with New Young Pony Club, are due to appear live on the "Later ... With Jools Holland" music show (on BBC2, Friday 14th December), and are set for an expanded UK tour early next year. See also our previous feature from October 2007 following their appearance at this years IN THE CITY - More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thetingtings
November 2007
VAMPIRE WEEKEND are a 4-piece upbeat indie pop band from NYC, who could easily be described as Buddy Holly meeting Talking Heads! In July 2007 they released the double A-sided 'Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa' & 'A-Punk' on 7" vinyl, got signed by XL Recordings and released their first single on their new label - 'Mansard Roof' - in November, and did a brief 6 date UK tour to coincide. Their self titled debut album is due out on 29th January 2008 in North America and is expected to get a European release on 25th February. This is definitely a band to watch out for as 2008 gets under way. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www. myspace.com/vampireweekend
EFFI BRIEST are a 6-piece all-girl band from Brooklyn, NYC who are named after a novel which deals with the subordinate role of women in late 19th century Germany. In August they released 'Mirror Rim' in as a single on vinyl over in the UK through Loog Records (which is run by NME`s editor James Oldham) and they made a good impression earlier this month (November) when they played at a festival in Paris along with Blood Red Shoes, Reverend & The Makers and Cold War Kids. They are described as a mix of The Slits, The Raincoats and early Siouxsie & The Banshees. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/effibriest
THE ADS are a 4-piece indie rock band from Glasgow who have been receiving a lot of praise (especially in Scotland) since they released their 7" vinyl single ’Autopilot’ in August, and are best described as a mix of Talking Heads, The Buzzcocks and The Small Faces. They have a brand new single - ’Maybe Tonight’ - out as download and on 7" vinyl in early December on the indie label King Tut`s Records which will also coincide with a 15 date tour of the UK. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/theads
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October 2007
LOOK SEE PROOF are an upcoming powerpop indie band from Bedford (UK), who this year have already supported The Fratellis and The Rifles and who also made an impression at the annual IN THE CITY international music convention in Manchester earlier this month. Their critically acclaimed single 'Casualty' was released in September on Weekender Records, and they are due to play at the next London Calling event in Amsterdam in November. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/lookseeproof
Another Manchester band who are making all the right noises with brilliant tunes and blinding hooks that make you feel good are INTERNATIONAL ONE who have their much talked about debut single ‘Moonshine & Roses’ (Modern English label) out later this month and it was produced by Phil Vinall (Radiohead & Placebo). The six piece have been described as The Stone Roses meets Simon and Garfunkel, and are currently playing various gigs in the UK. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/ionetheband
September 2007
The band Joe Lean and The Jing Jang Jong formed in 2006 at a time when Joe Lean was drumming with The Pipettes and he wanted to find an outlet for the pop symphonies that he had been writing. The band, influenced by pop and 60's garage punk, played their first gig earlier this year and after only a handful more gigs the buzz on London's music scene was such that they were offered a record deal. Their debut single 'Lucio Starts Fires' (Mercury / Young & Lost Club Records) is currently being played on MTV2 and is out on 8th October.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/joeleanandthejingjangjong
THE COURTEENERS are a(nother) new band from Manchester who have been receiving fantastic live reviews over in the UK, and who have recently been selling out venues holding almost a thousand people! They came to our attention during the summer with their single ‘Cavorting’, while new single ‘Acrylic’ is due out next month. They have already been described as being the post-Libertines, post-Arctic Monkeys, new millennium Manchester band the world has been waiting for. Time will tell, but one thing is for sure that after all the recent music press concentrating on bands from Leeds, Glasgow or Sheffield, the arrival of The Courteeners will ensure that it won't be long before everyone heads back over to Manchester again.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thecourteeners
Devonte Hynes (Dev from Test Icicles) has reinvented himself and is now performing as LIGHTSPEED CHAMPION and has been described as indie rock meets folk. His first single 'Galaxy of the Lost' which was released during the summer received positive reviews and his next single 'Midnight Surprise' will be released in October through Domino Records. As a live band, Lightspeed Champion will be touring the UK this autumn and with Alex Hardee (Scissor Sisters, iLiKETRAiNS, Infadels) as his agent he should be making inroads sooner rather than later.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/lightspeedchampion
August 2007
THE RUMBLE STRIPS are another new band from the UK who have been described as delivering a set of songs steeped with huge, life-affirming choruses all awash with the optimism of youth. Their album "Girls & Weather" (Island Records) will be out on 17th September and includes the single 'Girls And Boys In Love', which has also been included on the soundtrack to the film ‘ Run Fat Boy Run’ which should get a European cinema release next month (September). 'Girls And Boys In Love' will be released as a single on 3rd September and will be available on CD, 7" & 12" vinyl and includes a re-mix by HOT CHIP
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/rumblestripsuk
THE TIGERPICKS are a 3-piece indie band from Manchester who are influenced by the likes of The B52`s, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Tori Amos in equal measures, sound a bit like a mix of CSS, The Rapture and The Gossip, and describe themselves as sounding like a crystal goblet filled with glitter and purple fire! They were discovered and quickly signed up by Deltasonic Records during the annual In The City music convention last year. Earlier this year they released the single 'Disco Punk Electro Funk' (photo), and are expected to release their debut album soon. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thetigerpicks
MAPS (aka James Chapman) hails from Northampton, England and can best be described as creating epic electronic sounds. He released his debut album "We Can Create" (Mute) on 14th May 2007, and recently released the single "You Don't Know Her Name". He is set to play various European dates from September, including 2 concerts (with full band) in the Benelux region (see our Gig Listings section for more details) - He should appeal to fans of AIR, SIGUR ROS, MOBY & BOARDS OF CANADA and was recently nominated for the Mercury Music Prize (the prestigious award for best album of the year) and is definitely one to watch out for.
More info can be found on the MAPS MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/mapsmusic
May - July 2007
ANNUALS are an upcoming American band (from North Carolina) who have already been showing some similarities with their Canadian neighbours Arcade Fire, in that by using a mixture of instrumentation they have created sprawling, hypnotic tracks with a sophisticated sound. They give us a mix of rock, pop and even hip-hop, and have been described by some as The Flaming Lips with Beach Boys harmonies. In Europe they are set to release their debut album "Be He Me" through Virgin / EMI on 18th June 2007.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/annuals
 
THE ENEMY are a 3-piece from Coventry and so far this year they have released 2 impressive singles ('It's Not Ok' on 12-2-2007 which entered the UK`s Top 10 & 'Away From Here' on 16-4-2007), with a brand new single 'Had Enough' out on 25-6-2007. They are gritty and raw yet provide catchy and melodic songs and are ones to watch out for. They were one of the highlights earlier this year when they appeared at the London Calling event in Amsterdam. Their debut album "We'll Live And Die In These Towns" (Warners) is out next month (july 2007).
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/theenemycoventry
GALLOWS are a hardcore punk band from Watford, England who have been building up a great reputation on the gig circuit.
Kerrang! magazine have called them "the future of punk rock". They are currently touring America and have been receiving a lot of critical acclaim. They initially released their debut album "Orchestra Of Wolves" on the indie label In At The Deep Records while over in the States it was distributed by Epitaph Records, but they have since signed to Warners and their album is to be re-released on 18th June 2007. The band are also due to play a couple of gigs in the Benelux region in November (see our Benelux Gig Listings section for more info).
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/gallows
NEW YOUNG PONY CLUB are a five piece indie/electronica band from London who have taken influences from the 80`s New Wave scene and added dance rhythms and should appeal to fans of LCD Soundsystem. Describing themselves they say “We marry the dance ethic with the pop ethic, and make something that you can dance to and sing along to.” They released the limited edition single ‘Ice Cream’ last year, had a recent UK indie chart hit with "The Bomb", while their debut album "Fantastic Playroom" (Island Records) is expected to be released this summer. NYPC are definitely ones to watch out for. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/newyoungponyclub
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March - May 2007
Another upcoming band to watch out for are PULL TIGER TAIL, described recently by UK newspaper The Guardian as "The Smiths, Fugazi, Ride and Big Star mashed together in one breathless whole" and some are already predicting that they will be filling indie dance floors by the end of the year. They had a single (Let's Lightning) out in March, while their new single 'Hurricanes' (B-Unique) will be out on Monday 18th June. In the space of one short year, Pull Tiger Tail have emerged to stride ahead of the indie pack: since last Autumn's limited edition debut single 'Animator', they have made their way up the support slot food chain - from supporting Pigeon Detectives and Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly through to stadium shows with the likes of Razorlight. Their debut album is due out in August.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/pulltigertail
THE BLIZZARDS are a ska-pop band from Ireland with a good live reputation who after releasing their debut single ‘First Girl to Leave Town’, which reached number 11 in the Irish charts were signed to Universal (Ireland) in 2006 and they have since released their debut album, "A Public Display of Affection" (photo) which was produced by Michael Beinhorn (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Korn, Soundgarden) which came out in October 2006, and various singles (incl. ‘Trouble’, ‘Miss Fantasia Preaches’ & ‘War of Words’). This year they have released ‘Fantasy’ as a single and are due to tour other parts of Europe in the near future and one to watch out for.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/theblizzards
THE ORANGE LIGHTS are an upcoming band from Newcastle, who recorded a ten-song album with Coldplay producer Ken Nelson in 2005 before they'd played a gig or even had a record deal. The band have since provoked a rush of record label, publishing and media interest from both the UK and US, but preferring to go it alone they set up their own Blackbird Records which will release their debut single 'Let The Love Back In' on 21st May, with their album "Life Is Still Beautiful" to follow in June and is being tipped to cross into the mainstream later this year (2007). Their sound is described as atmospheric and cinematic like Doves and Radiohead. The Orange Lights are: Jason Hart (formerly lead guitarist with Spirtualized) - Lead vocals/Guitar, Paul Tucker (ex-Lighthouse Family) - Piano, Ed Warden - Guitar, Chris Gittens - Bass and Alex Lucas - Drums. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/theorangelights
PARIS MOTEL are fronted by the classically trained Amy May and probably best described as Billie Holiday meeting Talking Heads, although it is fair to say that there is also an element of Nick Drake there. They received favourable press when they played at the beginning of last year (March 2006) at SXSW in Texas, went on to record their critically acclaimed debut album "In The Salpêtrière" for indie label Hotel Records, followed by excellent reviews when they appeared in October 2006 at IN THE CITY in Manchester when the NME reported "Eerie, filmic and lush: London sextet Paris Motel's string-powered mini movies have been making audiences all over the UK fall in love with them." - Singer/Songwriter Amy May previously expanded on the title of their debut album: "The Salpetriere is a hospital in Paris where they used to keep 'undesirable' women in the 18th and 19th century - madwomen, prostitutes, epileptics, paupers and unmarried mothers ended up there. I'm using the idea of the hospital as a metaphor for the collection of songs about extraordinary, interesting women (who may or may not have been mad, depending on your point of view). PARIS MOTEL had the title track from their EP "071" included in our monthly play list for January 2007 and they should appeal to both indie and even folk fans, but commercial radio stations today may sadly not provide them with the audience and subsequent appreciation they deserve. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/parismotel
THE HUSSY`s are a quirky, punky, power pop sextet from Glasgow, and include James McColl (Supernaturals) in their line up only this time the lead vocals are supplied by a female named Fili - They have toured with LITTLE MAN TATE and are due to support INSPIRAL CARPETS in March at their sold out gig in Glasgow while their "Tiger" EP is out now on Fat Cheerleader Records.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thehussys
February 2007
Hailing from Liverpool, singer CANDIE PAYNE delivers 60's influenced pop, taking in Film soundtracks, Serge Gainsbourg, Billie Holiday and Nina Simone along her musical journey, and brought out some promising sounding singles towards the end of 2006. Her debut album "I Wish I Could Have Loved You More" (Columbia) is scheduled for release on 11th June. In March 2007 she will be appearing as part of a showcase event for the best of Liverpool’s current musical talent at this years South by Southwest (SXSW) * in Austin, Texas. More info can be found on her MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/candiepayne
* - South by Southwest (SXSW) is an interactive, film and music festival and conference that takes place every spring in Austin, Texas. The festival, which began in 1987, is one of the largest in the United States, with over a thousand performers playing in dozens of venues over a week.
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January 2007
ENTER SHIKARI have gone for what can best be described as a mix of rock and trance, where unlike bands like The Prodigy who combined the two and put the emphasis on dance, they have put rock first. Towards the end of 2006 ENTER SHIKARI were selling out gigs across the UK and were pursued by a lot of the major record companies. However, the band decided to remain independent, and signed a distribution deal with Vital instead so that they were able to keep hold of their artistic freedom and will continue to release records on their own label (Ambush Reality). On Monday 5th March they will be releasing the single "Anything Can Happen In The Next Half Hour" and you can already have a listen on their MySpace site. They are on tour in Germany and France in February. Hopefully they will also be making a visit to the Benelux region some time soon? More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/entershikari
THE HOURS - recently appeared on "Later With Jools Holland" (BBC2), they have a new single coming out on 22nd January and it's the second to be taken from their highly anticipated debut album, "Narcissus Road" (A&M Records). The single "Back When You Were Good" will be available as a CD and 7". They then release their album 2 weeks later on 5th February. The Hours are Antony Genn and Martin Slattery - Genn was previously a member of ELASTICA and PULP in the 90`s, while Slattery was the keyboardist in Shaun Ryder's BLACK GRAPE. They are managed by former Pulp bassist Steve Mackey. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/TheHours
December 2006
Apart from Manchester, Sheffield and Sunderland turning out even more quality bands over recent years, Leeds have also had a good period of late (Kaiser Chiefs, The Ivories, iLiKETRAiNS) and THE LODGER are the latest hot tip. This 3-piece are reported to bring you the perfect blend of indie-pop and bittersweet lyrics. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thelodgerleeds
BUREAU are an electro-artsy rock band from Manchester, who supply jangling guitars and a stomping beat, and appear to be influenced by Gary Numan and Magazine, but comparisons have also been drawn with the likes of GOLDFRAPP. They released their debut single "After Midnight" in October 2006 on the indie label High Voltage Sounds which made Radio Xfm Single Of The Week and early reports are that they should be ones to watch out for in 2007.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/bureauband
November 2006
THE WOMBATS are a 3-piece high-speed punk-pop band from Liverpool (with a Norwegian bass player!) and also appeared at this years IN THE CITY (see link below) and were recently described by UK website Gigwise as "the most exciting new band to emerge from Liverpool in 2006". They are due to play 2 live dates in Germany early next year (19th January at the Mudd Club, Berlin & 20th at Molotow Club, Hamburg)
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thewombatsuk
1990s are a trio from Glasgow who are known for their sweet melodies and harmonious tunes. All members of the band have been in previous local bands in Glasgow with members Jackie McKeown and Jamie McMorrow forming Scottish band The Yummy Furs with Alex Kapranos and Paul Thomson (now in Franz Ferdinand). They are joined by drummer Michael McGraughhrin. The band are due to appear at the forthcoming London Calling event in Amsterdam on 25th November and have a new single out on Rough Trade Records.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/1990sband
COLD WAR KIDS are a new band from North America who are worth checking out but may not appeal to everyone because their influences could be considered too recent? - We are a bit divided on this one having first listened to them during the summer and thought they sounded a bit too bluesy for our liking. Since then they have been touring parts of Europe to great reviews, although sounding a bit like early Strokes may not be considered that original or even necessary? - I suppose time will tell? More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/coldwarkids
A review of new bands at this years IN THE CITY can be found - > HERE
THE VIEW are another band from Scotland (Dundee) who made a good impression during the T in The Park festival earlier this year (July 2006) and they are touring the UK with WE ARE SCIENTISTS in November. They had a single - "Wasted Little DJs" released on 7-8-2006 (Columbia). Their debut album is expected to be released early next year and hopefully some European live dates will coincide?
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/dryburgh
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October // Oktober 2006
BETTY CURSE are a Goth / Punk band from Liverpool, who are fronted by former actress Megan Burns (a 19-year-old who in 2002 played Hannah in Danny Boyle's '28 Days Later') and were spawned from a love of Nick Cave, The Cure, The Cramps, Vivienne Westwood, horror writer Edgar Allan Poe and 50’s poster girl Betty Paige. They have a new single: "Girl With Yellow Hair" out on 13th November (Island Records). More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/bettycursemusic
THE DYKEENIES are an art pop five piece named after a phrase in the eighties fantasy film, “Willow”, who are probably Scotland’s best kept secret. We picked up on them during our visit to the Edinburgh Festival in August and their debut single "New Ideas" was featured in our playlist for September. They are about to release their "Waiting For Go" EP (Lavolta Records) on 27th November.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/gofindthedykeenies
THE HUMAN VALUE are an exciting three piece from the USA who at times sound a bit like early Blondie, or Depeche Mode meeting Curve, who could be influenced by Siouxsie & The Banshees, Talking Heads and possibly The Pretenders. Their single "Give Me" was released in the UK on 18th September. They are about to release their self titled debut album "The Human Value" (Big Deal Records) on 2nd October.
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thehumanvalue
Summer // Zomer 2006
BAT FOR LASHES A 3-piece band from Brighton who have their debut album "Fur and Gold" out on Echo Records (PIAS for Benelux?) on 11th September. The current line up is Bat (singer Natasha Khan) and Ginger Lee who both play a mixture of piano, guitars, harpsichord, autoharp and electronic machines, along with Abi Fry on viola who also doubles up on percussion. As a live band, their dramatic music creates an intimate, cinematic world... Taking influence from 70's film soundtracks, weather phenomena, childhood Halloween parties and a David Lynchian vision of suburbia, they occupy the tenebrous space between innocence and a loss of innocence and come straight from the storyteller's heart... and that alone means that they probably do belong on AAPA! That their music and vocal delivery has also been described as being influenced by Kate Bush & Björk is simply a bonus...
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/batforlashes
ELEKTRADOG are currently unsigned but still worth checking out. Influenced by the electro and new wave bands from the 80`s along with a hint of glam rock legends T.REX - More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/elektradog
BLOOD RED SHOES are a 2-piece punky disco band from Brighton consisting of Steven Ansell and Laura-Mary Carter. They have been releasing 7" vinyl singles since the start of 2006 and have built up a healthy following. They are touring right across the UK from September till the end of November. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/bloodredshoes
DARTZ! are a new upcoming 3-piece band from the North East of England who have managed to find their own exciting blend of rock, punk, powerful drumming and ... disco! Their music is being described as danceable alt rock. They made an initial impact during last years IN THE CITY international music convention in Manchester. Reported to be a great live band (along with the occasional appearance of a balaclava wearing sax player), if they get to play the Benelux region in the near future (maybe the London Calling event in Amsterdam at the end of November?) then the Dutch public should lap them up, because by next summer they could have become something special. DARTZ! are: William K.J. Anderson (Bass/Vocals), Philip J. Maughan (Drums/Vocals) & Henry J. Carden (Guitar). See also our "latest news" section under September for more info on their next single. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/darts
THE PIGEON DETECTIVES are the latest in a long line of Yorkshire bands, hailing from Leeds this 5-piece rock and roll band have a lot in common with The Fratellis and Libertines. They released their debut single “I’m not sorry” in March 2005 (with the popular B side “I’m always right”) and have since gone from strength to strength ever since, releasing their 2nd single “You know I love you” in July of this year on the indie label Dance to the Radio. They are currently getting extensive radio plays from alternative stations in the UK and will be supporting Kaiser Chiefs (no surprises given the Leeds connection) in Paris and Antwerp in November and stopping by Holland at the London Calling Event in Amsterdam on 25th November. Their new single "I Found Out" is out on 6th November with their debut album expected to follow later this year. More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/thepigeondetectives
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April - Juni // April - June 2006
SANDI THOM - The latest singer songwriter to follow in the footsteps of KT TUNSTALL who has her debut album "Smile ... It Confuses People" out on the BMG label on 5th June. Time will tell if she is indeed as cool and original as KT Tunstall or as dull and manufactured as Katie Melua ?! - See also the AAPA Feature - > HERE
CAPTAIN - A five piece sounding like nothing around but sounding really good, think The Smiths mixed with Madness together with a Radiohead anthem...exactly. They name Billy Corgan, Björk, 1930s movies and Frank Sinatra among their many influences. CAPTAIN are a top act hailing from Cambridge in the UK with their debut album "This is Hazelville" out in August. Their debut single "Frontline" is already out and new single "Broke" (EMI Records) will be out soon. They are currently touring the UK but European festivals should be on the cards, while a trip over to Holland might not be that far away. One to definitely watch out for...
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/captaintheband
LITTLE MAN TATE - Coming from Sheffield the Arctic Monkeys are always going to be mentioned ... that done, lets talk about Little Man Tate. The group have just released their second single "What? What you got" on V2 Records (lets hope V2 stick with this band long enough to see an album). Their first single "The Agent" was released independently and sold out on pre-order. New demos can be heard on their website (www.littlemantate.co.uk) of which most notable track "Sexy in Latin" is almost certain to be a hit. And guess what? you won't have to wait long to see them as they play the Music in My Head Festival in Den Haag on 9th June. Be there, trust me these will be worth seeing...
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/littlemantatemusic
THE FRATELLIS - Three brothers from Glasgow (with no connection to those infamous ice-cream wars in the 70`s!) who have been around since the start of 2005 and who have generated a huge online following with their 3 minute glam rock influenced pop songs and are currently (May 2006) selling out gigs across the UK. Their debut EP was released April 06 on Normadic Records with the most notable tune being "Cigarello" with its huge drums and Jet/Clash sounding rhythm, although "Creepin`Up The Backstairs" was a song from the same EP which received extensive radio plays. Watch out for the follow up single "Henrietta" which is released on 12th June 2006
More info can be found on their MySpace site at: http://www.myspace.com/littlebabyfratelli
Januari - Maart // January - March 2006
BE YOUR OWN PET - Teenagers from Nashville USA, First single was released March 2005 called "Damn Damn Leash" followed by "Lets Get Sandy" in Jan 2006. They provide punk/pop sounds and actually sound good. Definitely ones to watch in 2006 as there album hits the stores. Self Titled debut Album due out March 23rd 2006 on Infinity Cat Recordings.
DUELS - A band hailing from the Yorkshire City of Leeds, whose core members are from the same family. A story telling band with a touch of Pink Floyd`s English psychedelia going on. 2006 could be good year for them. First single "Pressure on You" is out now.
DIRTY PRETTY THINGS - Carl Barat (ex Libertines) new band have finally put together a single that was released on 24th April 2006 called "Bang bang you're dead". Lets see if the "clean libertine" does better than the one previously reviewed here.
March 2006 // Maart 2006 - This time last year not many people in The Netherlands had heard of ARCTIC MONKEYS , EDITORS , ARCADE FIRE & FALL OUT BOY although they were already out there! - And believe it or not but there are plenty of new indie & alternative bands out there worthy of your attention right now...
   
keep checking for our regular tips which will commence from April 2006 onwards ...
While the AAPA Monthly PLAY LIST usually gives you the best new music tips first!
© HUGHSIE / AAPA – 2006
A review of new bands & artists tipped by AAPA in 2005 can be found - > HERE
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