#648: Life, Oh Life, Oh Life

Going back even to before American folk legend Woodie Guthrie emblazoned his guitar with the slogan ‘This Machine Kills Fascists’, musicians have been using their platform as a means to speak out against political and social injustices; acting as mouthpieces to those who otherwise wouldn’t have their voices heard, or providing a way to reach out to disenfranchised demographics.

This feature was originally written for DIY. Click here to read in full.

#647: Introducing...TUSKS

While lazy comparisons might well lump London’s TUSKS in with the likes of London Grammar, look past the electronics and bold female vocal, and a vastly different aesthetic reveals itself. While the aforementioned deal in grandeur and bombast, TUSKS opt for a less is more mantra, resulting in organically evolving soundscapes that are as beguiling as they are beautiful, yet always subtle in their delivery.

This feature was originally written for Louder Than War. Click here to read in full.

#646: Arms & Hearts - Too Much Sleep, Not Enough Dreams (EP review)

While it feels almost impossible to go anywhere in Manchester without rubbing elbows with one of the city’s singer/songwriters, very few do little to distinguish themselves from the ever-growing masses of ‘Wonderwall’ covers and trilbies. Fortunately, there are those who manage to keep their heads above the water in what’s often a sea of mediocrity.

This review was originally written for Louder Than War. Click here to read in full.

#645: Iron Chic, Rebellion, Manchester

Once harbouring a reputation as one of Manchester’s premiere metal venues, Rebellion, thanks in part to its new management, is beginning to shake that image by not limiting itself to any one scene. To prove that point, tonight sees Long Island’s Iron Chic take to their stage almost exactly a year since their last Mancunian sojourn.

This review was originally written for Louder Than War. Click here to read in full.