The music rightfully feels like a relaxing theatrical ode to a story or physical presentation, a perfectly captured image of exactly what inspired the title, and that self-awareness and consistency helps the natural dynamic and playful evolution of Jester (two pianos) connect and engage with its audience, right the way through.
USA
Ten original tracks, seamlessly incorporating aspects of old school, Gospel, RnB, and conscious contemporary rap. Jamal G impresses with clarity, dynamic and depth, throughout the heartfelt to anthemic original album Be Kind To Kids From The Ghetto.
Explosively fast-paced operatic metal meets with electronic design, Faith, and progressive storytelling – Arcane Sage captures the sense of epic adventure implied by the name, as we dive into the complex layers and performative passion of Celestial Desire.
An old-school intricate mix from techno and trance aficionado BLAND!, DEFCON ONE is a lo-fi and modest to intense original track, blending pure energetic escapism with a slowly evolving industrial landscape of rhythmic hits and warped, playful layers of synth and exploration.
Finely mixed chillout vibes that pour through the speakers at just the right array of angles – a bass-led groove and a musical simplicity and warmth that’s quick to soothe the mood – Storied Windows pair intricate design with soulful vocals, for the beautifully catchy Amaze Me.
Ellyott setts the vibe well for this late night admiration, a sense of bright lights on the horizon, a rightful edge of the unexpected in both the style and substance of the song. We search for meaning, or signs, and as such, we ride this wave of attempting to recognise the subtle and dreamy presence of Echoes In The Night.
An old-school bassline and synth combination sets the mood for a nostalgic boom-bap anthem, as Planet Burna carves out a conscious and clever set of bars and storytelling, for the iconic indie anthem Washed.
Openly a reminder that life is largely unexpected, The Whole Story is a celebration of the messy and hilarious realities that often take us by surprise. It’s also a strong introduction to the style and songwriting of Vermin & the Beachrat – an act with a swiftly expanding repertoire.
Always worthy of good quality speakers, volume, and a few minutes to spare – Effing and Blinding return on top once again, with their latest anthemic rock and roll offering Scab.
American hard-rock band Line So Thin recapture the essence of the genre, whilst offering a song of purpose and finely crafted contrast along the way.
Beautifully captured acoustic guitar and harmonica, an organic set-up with a bluesy undertone – Ben Gage masters the songwriting and production space for real-time folk music, with the wonderful single Corner.
Timeless country pop with a full-band set-up and heartfelt original story – Hannah Pralle’s repertoire is loaded with great songwriting, and Kiss Kiss Bang is easily an upbeat gem from the collection.