ALBUM REVIEW: Deerheart - Blood Relatives

Blood Relatives' debut album 'Deerheart' is a 10-song, 38-minute pop tour-de-force. Here they showcase their ability to perform pop anthems and to write with striking lyrical genius.

Title track and lead single 'Deerheart' appears early in the album and is the perfect introduction to the debut. Lead vocalist Anna Meldrum shines through in the whole album but major credit should go to her on this one, and it is, like the rest, lyrically strong. 

For what might be considered a short album, it manages to make great impact and will stick with the listener long after first, and subsequent, listens. It is the kind of album that requests, nay demands, multiple listens and will improve your winter with the summery sounds. There's plenty of toe-tapping to be had throughout the length of the album and it's sure to be a big hit on the Scottish scene, and hopefully beyond.

Making a fresh start in 2013 as Blood Relatives is likely to lead this band to bigger and better things. This debut album has a great deal of promise and so much to love that I cannot see anything but a bright future, filled with their bright poppy tracks. I, for one, will certainly be listening for a long time.

'Deerheart' is available now on Comets and Cartwheels. 

GIG REVIEW: Blood Relatives Album Launch 26.10.2013

The blog took a little holiday recently, whilst I also took a little holiday to the States, and so this Saturday was first review gig back and it was hosted once again by the excellent Comets and Cartwheels.

Taking place at the newly (re-)opened Bar & Fly on Clyde Street was the Blood Relatives 'Deerheart' album launch. The new Barfly, in the exact spot of the old one, has had a makeover but wants to offer the same exciting nightlife as before. However there is a problem here, the newly positioned stage on the main bar level stands right in front of the bar itself meaning all punters watching to watch the bands are forced to stand around the bar, blocking off an area that everyone would want easy access to and not allowing anyone a properly full view of the show. It's disappointing for a venue that was so well renowned in its original form, and helped launch so many bands. I certainly wouldn't rush to see a band there again, though the sound was great on the night, even from the back of the room away from the stage.

Support on the night comes from Kill the Waves and Pronto Mama, who amply warm up an ever-growing crowd before the headliners take the stage just after 10pm. Blood Relatives follow the long line of bands in 2013 who have risen from the ashes of a previous band (in this case Kitty the Lion) with a new look and new sound. The refreshed band bring so much energy and likability that it makes for a wonderful atmosphere on the night. Hampered a few times by the loud club downstairs, another strike against the new Barfly, the band perform their new album almost in full for the packed out crowd, who received the album with the price of their ticket in. All in all it makes for a wonderful deal and a great night of music. Blood Relatives start as they mean to go on with bright tunes that you can dance to and that stay with you long after the gig has ended. They can only build on this early success and have a bright future ahead of them.

'Deerheart' is released on Comets and Cartwheels today. An album review will be posted shortly. 

ALBUM REVIEW: Breaks & Bone - RM Hubbert

Fresh off a SAY Award winning second album, RM Hubbert returns with his third release which sees him once again return to his solo guitar roots. Running at thirty six minutes for ten tracks, it is short and sweet but a gentle reminder how extremely talented Hubby is.

The album is made up of striking instrumentals that rival anything else released this year, as well the inclusion of Hubbert's vocals on each consecutive track. The strength of the album, for me, is definitely the instrumental tracks. It is joyous to see what one single man, his guitar and a few other DIY elements can produce. Music is a very strong medium for telling stories and Hubby is one of the best storytellers Scotland has.

'Feedback Loops', one of the tracks to include Hubby's vocals, is also a highlight. Lyrically, it is a beautiful track and the softness of his voice only lends to this, as well the usually stunning guitar. This is a track that will certainly stick with the listener long after you've played through the album. Definitely a standout track of the year, let alone this album.

This album could very well lead to the first repeat winner of the SAY Award as it is so strong, and so unique. A completely different album from its predecessor and yet one that has all the elements to reproduce its success. RM Hubbert can shine completely in his own light here and he absolutely deserves to. An incredible talent who has produced his third incredible album. 

'Breaks & Bone' is released September 27th on Chemikal Underground

NEW MUSIC: Romance - Mast.

Summer may be almost over, but not before another killer song with catchy hooks makes an appearance. And this time it's in the shape of brand new one-man DIY pop band, Mast..

Mast. is the new project from Liam Rutherford, previously of The Darien Venture, whose demise this year saddened me greatly. It is most wonderful to see the members of the band beginning to take new routes in music and produce such quality anthems as this.

The track debuted on The Pop Cop's Music Alliance Pact for August, where you can still download it for free. As an opening salvo for a band, Mast. have started with a track that has incredible replayability, along with a brilliant video to go with it and a stunningly catchy tune that has all the elements of a summer hit.

It's been a brilliant summer, and year, for Scottish music and this yet another show of strength from Glasgow's music scene. I, for one, certainly cannot wait to hear more where this came from. Don't keep us waiting too long, Liam!

You can listen to Romance and watch the video below:

GIG REVIEW: Prides & Friends and Discopolis at King Tut's Summer Nights 30.07.2013

Nearing the end of King Tut's Summer Nights, it was time for something a bit different and, by booking a headline band who've only released one song so far, it was a big move. And it paid off massively.

With Plum having pulled out due to losing to her voice, the night was opened by Edinburgh's Discopolis, a four-piece electronic band. My description was pretty much 'disco rock', and it's toe-tapping, head-bopping goodness. Never having been one for electronic/synth bands, it seems like this foursome are going to be one of the few exceptions for me due to their ability to provide impressive soundscapes and tunes that are almost perfectly built for pre-partying before heading out with friends and alcohol. They play an accomplished live show, taking the crowd with them from the start and even manage to make jokes in-between songs including a beard warning for the headliners. A highlight for me is their remix of The Little Kicks' Loosen Up, giving a brilliant song a fresh new life. They end on a typically wild dance track having amply warmed up the filling crowd.

"We know you've taken a leap of faith", Prides note late in their set as they know they have only released one track online before playing this gig. But if their already hit single 'Out of the Blue' was the teaser then it's easy to see why the place was packed. Two members of Prides previously made up Midnight Lion but here they're actually starting to challenge the Chvrches model of beginning with very little content, other than a few things online, and building on word of mouth to achieve a strong fanbase before a full release is set. Like their predecessors, they are making it work. This band are not just another electronic three-piece, they have so many hooks in all their songs that they ought to come with a warning. In fact, I was surprised that the crowd was as still as it was during the majority of the set, regardless of whether we'd heard the tracks before or not because they were absolutely beasting. This show was also special because Prides brought with them Cairn String Quartet who provided strings on an auspicious opener and big hit 'Out of the Blue' to close, Louie of Hector Bizerk for 'Run and Jump' and they note that they were so pleased with how he performed that the track has been recorded and will be online very soon, and finally Ross and Mark of Fatherson to make a real sexy song even sexier. The band even trust the crowd enough to perform a quiet number in what is a complete change of pace, and it proves to be an incredible few minutes. However pockets of the crowd couldn't quite keep their mouths shut for this number and some of it was lost because of it, sometimes people need to learn there are bars for chatting and gigs for listening and watching. Having myself only heard 'Out of the Blue', I was incredibly happy to see that Prides are not just a one hit wonder and have an arsenal of superb tracks that everyone will hear in time. 

This show was an absolute blinder, and a very strong gig near the close of the Summer Nights programme. King Tut's once again prove that they are one of the best, if not the best, small venue in Glasgow.

GIG REVIEW: Fake Major, Campfires in Winter, Kevin Harper at King Tut's Summer Nights 29.07.2013

On a Monday night in Glasgow when the indie rock heroes of my teens (We Are Scientists) were also in town, I once again took a trip to King Tut's Wah Wah Hut for a dose of Summer Nights and the best in new music.

First up on the night was former Little Eskimos frontman, Kevin Harper. Harper presents a fresh take on the one man and his guitar with the addition of his laptop and some very strong vocals. Playing mostly songs from his solo album, with a few Little Eskimos tracks and one very interesting The Pixies cover, the setlist aptly shows his range and talent. Harper reminds me very much of Australia's Ben Lee, both in his vocals and his lyrics. His set is a fresh and change of pace from the Americana flooded acoustic field and he knows how to work a crowd despite not even being sure his set work. Harper is certainly someone to keep an eye on.

It was then time for Campfires in Winter to bring their Scottish rock masterclass to Tut's, and they do so with a large crowd in attendance. The band put on a very energetic show that flows from the crowd to the stage and back again, resulting in lots of noise and bouncing around on both sides. There's riffs aplenty, including from a new track never before been played live that goes down an absolute treat. Campfires are already an accomplished live outfit, going from strength to strength and shredding a lot of guitars in the process. The reception from the crowd proves that they are steadily gaining a loyal fanbase, and if the reaction to finale 'White Lights' is anything to go by then they are almost certainly going onto bigger and better things this year. The finale is loud, proud and a statement of true rock that leaves everyone in the room suitably impressed. The Campfires are one of the strongest bands on the circuit right now and deserve your attention.

Tonight's headline set comes smack bang right in the middle of the festival run for Fake Major and it represents their first full band headline where they actually had the opportunity to sound check, what a novelty. Typically then, there is a few technical issues before the set can begin but the band manage to silence the packed out Tut's with their opener of 'Cotton & Ink'. It's a joy to behold to watch a band render a crowd silent, especially on their first track of the night but that's the absolute power this band have already in their first year of existence. During the set, Richard Ferguson and David McGinty look to almost be performing as one solid unit as their mics as just the right distance apart to present the exact image of a four-armed singer-songwriter that the band describe themselves as. With years as Endor behind them and already a good block of shows as FM, this band are already accomplished live and have the sound for bigger rooms. EP tracks like 'Little Researcher' and 'Love in the Mundane' are very well received, and the band put on anything but a mundane live show joking with the crowd in-between tracks on all things from wanting to play the show for the one person who may not have heard them before (be it a guy, or a woman with a really deep voice), Jarv's colourblindness, and the fact they could easily teach midnight guest Pronto Mama their tunes as "it's only two chords". Many laughs are had by all. The new take on Endor song 'Chapel Doors' is at its best at this show and the crowd adores it, but the highlight of the night for me has to be the two as-yet unreleased Fake Major tracks including never before heard 'Seventeen' as the penultimate track. Both songs prove there is incredible life left yet in this band, they going to be going places, and I have no shame in saying they are absolutely my favourite band of the moment. The set ends on an incredible high with 'Fiction' and everyone is sorry to see them go, but it surely won't be long before they are gracing many more venues with their presence. 

After recovering from that great show I was able to stick around to see the midnight guests Pronto Mama, who brought their loud and proud indie rock show to Tut's bar and they did so with aplomb. It was a brilliant show that caught the attention of the majority in the bar and they've got a lot to get us excited about including by playing new tracks to tease us. 

All in all, this was a spectacular Monday evening with some of the best Scottish music. It was an easy decision in the end to choose this gig because I knew that it'd be one of the best shows of the year. My only disappointment of the night was that there was no Susie-sized t-shirts, but I'll get one in time.

GIG REVIEW: Michael Cassidy, Sam Fender, Little Fire, Ryan Joseph Burns at King Tuts Summer Nights 25.07.2013

Every year after T in the Park, King Tuts Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow celebrates the best in new and up-and-coming music with the two-week Summer Nights festival programme, showcasing bands to watch out for from Scotland and further afield. And on Thursday night I got to fully experience my first Summer Nights gig with a wonderful almost fully acoustic gig.

First up on the night was Jamie McGeechan of Little Fire, who won this year's Best Acoustic Award at the Scottish Alternative Music Awards. The music of Little Fire is that ever-popular fusion of Scottish and Americana which gets the night started off right. There's lots to be said about Jamie's talent, his energy and how he quickly gets an audience on side. One of the nights funniest moments comes from when he introduces the song 'Tell Me What You Want', plays a few chords then declares "I want it to be in tune.". With the crowd with him, and having started with a few upbeat tunes, Jamie shows a more tender side in the latter half of the set with songs like 'All I Need In Life' and newer track 'Caught In The Seams'. The short sets shows the full range of this one man and his guitar band who is sure to be going onto bigger and better things in the second half of this year, including the release of his debut album in the autumn. 

Having to follow the strong opener was Ryan Joseph Burns, who has already had success as a member of The Seventeenth Century. Ryan opens the set with two solo songs before being joined by a band for the first time, making the joke that the songs will at least be less depressing with the band behind him. The set certainly does pick up with the addition of the band and Ryan's own fusion of Scottish and Americana sets itself apart, rooting itself more in the Americana than the Scottish but it is no less brilliant for that. A particular highlight is the single Absence, which is Ryan's take on heartbreak and certainly makes the crowd that bit fonder of him. The set ends on a high with 'Where I Want To Be', getting the crowd bopping and making many new fans amongst the continually filling room. In fact, the set as a whole goes down so well that Ryan returns to the stage to perform an encore. Not often that happens in the middle of the gig.

In the interests of honesty, Sam Fender being on the bill was half the reason I wanted to attend this gig. Having seen Sam on his first trip to Glasgow back in March, I was suitably awed by his talent and with a few more months on the road under his belt he is a stronger act for it. At a young age (only 19!), he's still a raw talent but there's so much promise and talent here at deserves success. After breaking a string just as he was about to begin his second song of the night, he gives a brilliant comedic performance and he definitely could have a second career as a stand-up. His comedic performance wins him many friends in the crowd, a few even suggest he performs acapella whilst he awaits a borrow of Michael Cassidy's guitar. Sam plays a fair few miserable songs, which go down well in Scotland, even on an atypical warm and sunny summers evening. Sam's talent is here for all to see, he's got it in spades and he is winning audiences over one a time throughout the country. This Glasgow performance is sure to only be the start for him, the crowd loves him and makes it well known. In fact Sam comments that it is the best crowd he's ever had so one up for Scotland, who make the Geordie feel right at home. Sam Fender is one the UK's best underground talents, just waiting to be discovered and take the world by storm. I certainly cannot wait to see and hear more from him. 

With the crowd suitably warmed up, it was time for the headliner and tonight that was Paisley's Michael Cassidy, performing with his band.  For me, this was the first time seeing him with his band and it's wonderful to see the songs take on a whole new life with a band behind them. However, it's also clear that Cassidy's strong vocal and lyrical talents are the star of the show and the reason we're all here. We are treated both new songs and hits, both of which are well received by the crowd and there's lots of bopping going on through songs like 'Fifteen Years' and 'No One Else Is Mine'. There are two new songs in the form of 'Gonna Paint It Red' and a nursery rhyme for his niece that he aptly turned into a great track, 'Run Run Rabbit Run'. I'm very glad Michael decided to take the simple rhyme and turn it into such a beautiful track.  There's a good dose of Americana in 'Dancing At The Devil's Door', and 'We Can Breathe' ends the set on a typically strong note before Michael returns for a solo encore that is well deserved. The songs with his band have a much bigger sound but they are still heartfelt tunes that an audience can connect to and Michael himself is amiable, meaning he has all the tools to become one of our best musical exports. It's a shame that his set was marred by pockets of the audience talking loudly throughout, but that is the only little black spot on what is a brilliant night for Michael Cassidy and all the acts.

Summer Nights also features midnight guests in the bar of Tuts but your blogrunner is clearly getting too old for this, as I only manage one song of Thursday's guest Honeyblood. There was a good crowd for them and I'm sure they went down a treat.

For a warm Thursday evening in Glasgow, this gig made for an excellent way to spend it. All four acts gave the crowd great sets and wield simple acoustic guitars with great power. 

GIG REVIEW: Brothers. EP launch at Nice N Sleazy 29.06.2013

Another Saturday night with plenty of options in Glasgow, including The Wee Chill's 10th birthday at SWG3, lead to difficult decisions on how to spend the evening. Easily tempted by gigs just on my doorstep and having been graciously invited, I took myself to Sleazy's to take in the Brothers. EP launch. 

First up on the bill was Jake Beveridge, a singer-songwriter based in Glasgow. Jake plays heartfelt acoustic tracks, showcasing his strong vocals and lyrical talent. He is in the same ilk as Michael Cassidy, and fans of Cassidy would definitely enjoy Beveridge's music. Full of raw talent, I strongly believe Beveridge could be nipping at Cassidy's heels soon as he's a hidden gem of the Scottish acoustic scene. I certainly hope he wouldn't be hidden too much longer, he's got the right stuff to take him to big places. I've got my eye on him and you should too.

Taking to the stage next were Ayrshire instrumental three-piece, Two Towns Apart. I have never been one for heavier bands, or instrumental bands (unless you're Explosions in the Sky) but I was surprised by how quickly I took to their combination of both. This band are loud and proud, and they're powerful. They present walls of sound, intricately built together with talent and passion as the cement holding the bricks of powerful sounds together. Looping may have become an overused technique particularly on the Scottish scene recently but Two Towns Apart are one of the few who effectively use it to build their songs. In a break between songs we are given an explanation of the bands' name, which relates to the fact guitarist Lewis Glass lives in Irvine whilst Curtis McConnell on bass and Michael Wylde on drums stay in Ayr, with Troon and Prestwick in-between, it makes the band separated by two towns. The band have their own EP due soon and end on an impressive, and impressively loud, note. 

Finally it was time for our headliners to take to the stage. Brothers., previously known as From Now On, are a two-piece rock outfit from Kilmarnock who combine steely riffs with strong lyrical talent to make a big impact. Whilst Fraser Donaldson (guitar and vocals) and Cairns Elliot (drums and vocals) are clearly not brothers themselves, there's a brotherly-like connection in their performance and it gives them an edge that makes their live show particularly brilliant. They even manage to pull off a song called The World is Flat, which they have on played once before. The crowd made up of family, friends, and punters alike lap up the show making their inaugural Glasgow gig under the new guise a very warm affair, and a good new beginning. The crowd even manage to get the band back on for a well deserved encore, and it ends up being a very special one. On request the boys play 'Garden State' from their new EP 'September', the same song they opened the show with, but this time they do it with the help of Jake Beveridge, Two Towns Apart, Fraser's dad and a friend or two. It ends the night on a memorable note, and shows the appreciation for Brothers. is very strong and can only be due to increase as their exposure slowly grows. This band have amples of talent and a lot to show the world so there's a lot of their story yet to be written.  

It's always a joy to leave your flat and be genuinely surprised by live music, and that is what happened on this Saturday evening in Glasgow.

Over the Wall are back!

After nearly a year away from playing together as band, Ben Hillman and Gav Prentice returned as Over The Wall at the Oran Mor on Friday as part of West End Festival. This isn't a review as such, I did thinking about writing one for this gig but since all I've really got is that it was the gig of the year so far, I figured best leave it to others who could provide a bit better picture of it for you. However the above video of Thurso shows that  a long time away from playing as band hasn't hampered Over the Wall at all. The   performance was blinding, featured the band's signature banter and the packed crowd went away suitably impressed, many who seemed as happy about the band's return as I was.

Here's to more performances like this in 2013. And, of course, more Over the Wall. 

GIG REVIEW: West End Festival all-dayer at Oran Mor 23.06.2013

Having previously only been able to live vicariously through others who'd been to the West End Festival All-Dayer in past years, the fact that this year's fell on my birthday made my first experience of it all the better. The lineup was typically brilliant and it was a day full of the best of the Scottish music. 

Starting my day off properly in The Venue, I was able to catch the end of Pronto Mama's set. Playing an original form of indie-rock, with a masterful balance of their vocals they manage to open proceedings with a strong performance. The day begins as it means to go on, going from one great performance to another, split between The Venue downstairs and The Auditorium upstairs. 

Moving to The Auditorium, I was able to see Campfires in Winter put on a masterclass in Scottish rock. One of the most consistent live bands on the scene right now, they give everyone upstairs a true show of talent with their own brand of brilliant rock. Teasing a new EP due in September, the band give us a taster of what is to come as well giving someone who'd travelled all the way from Germany a dedication on their current single, White Lights, which is a spectacular track and the highlight of the set. For one of their earlier sets, the Campfires have garnered themselves a strong audience and its clear to see why. 

Deciding to stay put upstairs proved to be an excellent decision as Adam Stafford was up next. Stafford is the King of the one man show, showcasing a sheer talent in vocals, loops and music, as a whole. And let's not forget he's got some of the best dance moves on the circuit, which are worth watching his set for alone. Less than a month away from an album launch (which will be on July 15th at The Glad Cafe), we are treated to the newest single 'Galvanise' and it's another stunning track from an artist who is at the top of his game. The album sadly will not be called the title that Stafford teased us with on Sunday (Tit-Wanks That I've Known and Loved, if you were wondering (it is called Imaginary Walls Collapse)), but this once again proved that his banter is up there with the best of them and balances out the intensity of his musical performance. If you haven't been able to catch Adam Stafford yet, I highly recommend that you do.

Making a flying visit to The Venue, it was time for Washington Irving to take the stage. Already having a strong year following the release of their album Palomides Volume I, they bring a large and warm crowd into the confines of the downstairs venue. Their live show is very strong and their indie-folk certainly appeals to masses, reminiscent of Frightened Rabbit and Admiral Fallow. The early evening performance gets the crowd bopping and suggests they can only go from strength to strength here and, with Palomides Volume II due later in the year, they've got surely even bigger things coming their way.

With that I make my final move of the day and settle in at The Auditorium for, without doubt, one of the strongest double bills you could be offered today. It is Meursault who take the first slot, and absolutely pack out the room. Having not seen them for a few years I was amazed to see how far they've come and just how strong their performance has become. It is a mind-blowing show, moving from highlight to highlight, though my own personal one is definitely 'Dull Spark', from their SAY award shortlisted album 'Something for the Weakened'. The crowd continues to show them the love and warmth they absolutely deserve and it's clear that we've just seen one of the best bands in the country put on a simply powerful performance that none of us will be forgetting any time soon. 

The band that had the task of closing out this wonderful day of Scottish music were none more than The Twilight Sad playing a stripped back set. There were a few of us who were slightly disappointed that was not going to be an amped up performance but that was quickly forgotten as the set began. The stripped back Sad are extremely powerful, in a totally different way from the electric performance, and it's enough to lead you to be taken aback slightly, just by the music alone. The set is made up of more earlier tracks than newer than I expected but is definitely a strength, as James Graham notes that he'd been told recently they had been performing as a band for ten years before the band play us a special version of Cold Days From The Birdhouse, the song he believes got them this far. It is hauntingly beautiful. James also manages to pay tribute to RM Hubbert and his recent SAY award win, in his own brilliant way ("Bastard!"), and gives a shoutout to Adam Stafford and his cover of Walking for Two Hours, showing just how inter-connected and friendly the Scottish scene is. All the bands love to support each other and this day has shown this better than most. 

I could hardly have asked for a better birthday present than the gift of all this brilliant live Scottish music from bands I adore in a suitably wonderful venue, with a lot of friendly faces in the crowd. This may have been my first West End Festival All-Dayer but it's definitely not the last. I am looking forward to next year already. 

GIG REVIEW: Slow Club & French Wives at Britannia Panopticon 18.06.2012

Having already been to a gig in a disused swimming pool this year for a venue to really my attention it'd have to be a bit special and that's exactly what the Britannia Panopticon is. Situated on Glasgow's Trongate the Panopticon is the world's oldest surviving music hall and the special Lumia Live sessions gig was the first music event of its kind in the venue since it was rediscovered at the turn of millenium. This could just be the beginning of a beautiful thing.

Photo by Warren Media

The openers on the night were Glasgow's French Wives, who are slowly coming back onto the scene after having busily been writing a new album recently, and their return is greatly welcomed as they're extremely talented. Noted as fans of the Panopticon they're as stoked as all in attendance to be at the venue and their soft indie-pop sits very well in the surroundings. We are treated to one of the new tracks that the band have been working on and getting to experience it with such a quiet audience in a historic setting makes it sound even better. The future is definitely looking bright for these guys and the hit single 'Halloween' ends their short set on a wonderful note.

Photo by Warren Media

Following the local openers the night's headliners are Sheffield's Slow Club, who treat the lucky crowd in attendance to a set of old favourites and new never before heard tracks from their forthcoming album. This special acoustic set takes music back to its bare bones and shows the sheer talent of Rebecca Taylor and Charles Watson. Highlights from their forthcoming Grammy Award winning new album include tentatively titled 'Fucking Feelings' and the banter is top notch, ranging from childhood photographs to Liberace. It's an incredible show made more special by the venue and there's no doubt that this band will continue to deliver incredible music and powerful performances. 

This is a gig I won't be forgetting in a hurry, the special setting and the incredible performances made for a truly wonderful evening. And a free bar certainly only added to that.  If you get the chance to go to a Nokia Lumia Live event in your city then I wholeheartedly advise that you take it as you'll be treated to something that'll give you a whole new appreciation of music as well as historic venues.

SINGLE REVIEW: Deadpool - Shambles Miller

With a release announcement for the new generation by Vine, the new single by Shambles Miller immediately caught my attention. And it doesn't let down either.

The 2-track single features title track 'Deadpool' and spoken word track 'My Common Sense is Tingling', both which show Shambles' typical genius but in massively different ways. 'Deadpool' is the musically comic fare that we all expect from Miller but it's got a lot of heart too. If you ever need a song about comic book characters that manages to tread the line of being typically miserable Scottish music but can make you smile at the same time then 'Deadpool' does all this in a spectacular way. 

The b-side spoken word track is a stand against the fat cats, and a much more eloquent speech than many politicians can manage. It's a strong statement, but with the Shambles brand of humour too. A very worthy b-side that makes you respect the man behind the music even more than you did before.

You can buy 'Deadpool', in physical form complete with a comic by Neil Slorance (or just plain digital form), via Bandcamp. And you can follow Shambles on Twitter and Tumblr.

GIG REVIEW: Shambles Miller at The Roxy 171 07.06.2013

Another basement venue was the host to another great Glasgow gig on Friday as The Roxy 171 played host to an acoustic showcase with a headline set from Shambles Miller.

Playing a set of his greatest hits, along with a few covers, the performance all those at the Roxy got to see was mesmerising. The covers of 'Hey Ya' and 'Remix to Ignition' turn the room into a mass party, whilst Shambles own material shows his genuine talent and ability to reach a crowd almost immediately. Having seen him almost steal the show as a support act previously, it's brilliant to see such a strong headline set and such an appreciative crowd. 

Shambles has an innate ability to get the crowd on side early, and for good, and this was definitely on show on Friday evening with his perfect balance of music and comedy. There's even an early banterful moment where he mentions after a song that he forgot some words due to some very enthusiastic crowd members who were singing along to his music, a jump to the next level for any musician and well deserved too. The crowd connection is immediate and it's a true joy to watch an artist who can practically befriend an entire crowd in mere moments. For those who have not yet seen Shambles Miller live, I can only imagine it must be almost impossible to dislike him upon doing so, especially since his self indulgent headline banter was surrounding shipyards. 

Headline performances are rarely so spellbinding and it is clear that the Roxy was the place to be on Friday night. 

GIG REVIEW: The Second Hand Marching Band at Gibson Street Gala 02/06/2013

I never intended on writing this when I left my flat to enjoy the sunshine and festivities at the Gibson Street Gala but having enjoyed myself so much, particularly at what I'm about to review, I decided to share.

The Second Hand Marching Band have been away for quite a while, and I haven't seen them in even longer, so this performance marked their return to the live scene (though many members have being playing in bands elsewhere) in the build up to the release of their first album. Having started out at 22 members, and usually playing with at least 16 these days , the band were 11-strong out on the street in the Sunday sunshine treating a fairly well established crowd to their greatest hits. With multi-talented members, and many layers throughout their songs, this band really show what Glasgow has to offer in terms of musical talent. Working their way through many dance numbers, and founding member Peter Liddle even finding his way into the crowd at one point, they leave the crowd with a warm and happy feeling on this beautiful day. 

I certainly hope I won't be waiting nearly as long between next seeing SHMB, they bring absolute happiness and joy to wherever they play and deserve to be more celebrated than they currently are, regardless of whether it's taken 4 years to finally get their first album done. We forgive you guys and we hope the album proves to be a big hit.

GIG REVIEW: Woodenbox 'End Game' Launch at The Grand Ole Opry 23.05.2013

Standing outside Glasgow’s Grand Ole Opry one feels as if you might have stepped back in time, it has all the fittings of an old seaside resort venue but on a main road in Glasgow. And once you get inside, you’re treated to a good dose of Americana and some nice cheap drinks. It is, without doubt, the right choice to set the launch of Woodenbox’s sophmore album.

As a crowd begins to gather we begin to note the drum set being constructed in the middle of the floor and this proves to only be the beginning of a wonderfully strong opening set by Edinburgh’s The Horndog Brass Band. They manage to make quite an entrance and the performance right in the thick of it with the crowd is an absolute treat, they put on more of a show than a set as they ably move around the floor and, near the end, even into the crowd itself. Despite being based in Edinburgh and performing in Glasgow, Horndog bring a bit of New Orleans flavour to Scotland and this pleases me greatly and I’m not the only one. The crowd is on side and warmed up early, with a short set that fills the room with happiness.

It is the job of Sheffield’s Neil McSweeney and his band to keep the energy in the crowd up and build on Horndog’s brilliant opening. Masterfully layering a lot of elements into their set, they move between poppier tunes and those that are more earnest. The Americana infused music is smooth with heartfelt lyrics and makes a connection with the crowd throughout. Bringing some humour into the night, they tease the crowd by asking if we’re scared of the wood (that makes up the dancefloor in the centre of the room) and that’s why we’re not all closer to the stage. The banter does the trick and soon there’s a healthy crowd on the dancefloor, where the Horndogs had only earlier been playing themselves.

With the crowd amply warmed up and ready to get down, our headliners Woodenbox are warmly welcomed onto the stage after half past nine and they open big with new track ‘Roll For Me’. It is a strong start, their set is off to a winner and everyone in the room knows it. Formed in 2008 and with many shows behind them Woodenbox are now an incredibly accomplished live band that can deftly move between their old school hit tunes and the newer album material without missing a beat. Welcoming the full Horndog Brass Band onstage in the middle of the set for Life From Above, we are treated to a bigger and better show as the night winds down to its close but not without the big hit Twisted Mile getting the entire crowd jigging and singing along. Unsurprisingly the band are brought back on stage for a well deserved encore, noting that was it was unplanned and they’d already played their encore track. Regardless they pull something out that goes down just as well as the set before and leave the crowd suitably satisfied and impressed.

This Thursday night in Glasgow had all the right elements for a grand old time in the Grand Ole Opry. Woodenbox launched their second album in style and we all hope they’re here to stay and continue to treat us with such brilliant live stylings.

Also to published on Glasgow Podcart

GIG REVIEW: Quickbeam album launch at Govanhill Baths 31/05/2013

In the words of Comets and Cartwheels label runner, Paul Downie, "You have to do something different", and Friday night at the still-in-refurbishment Govanhill Baths was definitely different, and it was also a little bit special. 

Fake Major, performing as a full band with the addition of bass and drums, opened the label showcase. Despite the added sound, this is still a performance based around the dual vocals and lyrical genius of David McGinty and Richard Ferguson. Noting that this was their first time performing in a swimming pool, they manage to humour the crowd and celebrate the occasion. Performing a set based majorly around their first EP, 'Have Plenty of Fun', their sound carries through the cavernous space and reaches the already established crowd who fill out the room from the deep end right to the bar (provided by BrewDog) located in the shallow end and the set shows the talent and promise that this young band, formed out of the embers of Endor, have in spades. Not everyone can say they've heard some of their favourite tracks of the year in a disused swimming pool but, having been able to witness this Fake Major set, I happily can. I certainly can't wait to watch this band perform many times over.

Before the headline band take to the stage, we are treated to a cinematic theatrical performance based on images, music and shadow. It is quite spellbinding and acts as a beautiful build-up to what we are about to experience. 

Welcomed very warmly onto the stage at the deep end, Quickbeam inform us that they will be performing their entire debut album in order for us on this very special night and, if you didn't believe you were in a swimming pool before then the blue lighting gave the full effect. The performance comes complete with a film background that only adds to the already deeply layered tracks. It is an incredibly immersive show that has the ability to hold a packed out audience in rapture, they've certainly seen nothing like this before. The crowd immediately react to 'Immersed', the first track that was previewed from the album a few months ago, and the band react in kind with a stunning performance of this track bringing it absolutely to life. Continuing right through the album, we get to see all sides of the band and each song offers something new to appreciate as you watch the band perform. It is also definitely one of those shows where you take hold of your loved ones or those close to you and just appreciate life and all you've got, that a band have that power is something to behold. There's a well deserved, but ultimately planned, encore to the end the night before the band as a whole take a bow in front of their very satisfied audience. 

This is a night that all who attended will certainly remember for a long time to come and was the perfect way for Govanhill Baths to open their new performance venue, as well as a brilliant showcase of the two inaugural artists on the Comets and Cartwheels label. It is clear that is just the beginning for everyone involved and there can only be bigger, better, and certainly more different things on the way.  

GIG REVIEW: Vigo Thieves at Broadcast 22/05/2013

Once again Broadcast played home to a launch night. On this cool Wednesday evening, a specially invited audience of family, friends and music types was there to witness Vigo Thieves  in an intimate showcase for the new 'Believe' single.

The proceedings were opened by The Calm Fiasco, whose rock pop punk got the crowd going early. Putting together a few medleys of covers and their own tracks, it's a short but sweet set. Their new song 'Sugar' is the highlight of the set, and shows they've got a chance to go bigger and better.

But this is night is all about Vigo Thieves and everyone knows it. From the get-go, they are welcomed loudly and with massive sing-alongs. They prove to be an accomplished live outfit, and put on quite the show. We are also treated to the special inclusion of a live saxophone on two songs, including on Ghosts, and this makes for a definite highlight. The single we're all there to celebrate 'Believe' is a big tune and goes down just as wonderfully as the rest of their set. The band have Broadcast literally bouncing for the majority of their show, and having brought two Canadian friends with me I definitely enjoyed being able to show them what a true Scottish get down at a gig is like. The crowd, not satisfied with the main set, use all their energy and power to bring the band back onto stage for a well deserved  and unplanned encore, and then make a point of stealing the show right at the end. 

This was Vigo Thieves' night though, and no matter how rowdy and excited the crowd were, it was the band who shone in the end, as it should be. Broadcast has been home to some brilliant launches this year, and this was definitely one of them.

GIG REVIEW: Cherri Fosphate EP Launch at Broadcast, Glasgow 11.05.2013

The cosy confines of Broadcast was home to yet another EP launch this weekend as Cherri Fosphate celebrated the release of 'Burning Youth'. And what a celebration it was.

The night was opened by This Silent Forest, who were a last minute fill-in for VsVs due to their demise. TSF's power indie could easily have filled Broadcast three times over, if not more. The band's performance is huge, with infectious guitar riffs and lyrical genius. In fact, the room would have been forgiven for believing they watching were a headliner. I certainly thought I was. With the release of their debut album due this Autumn, it is sure to be a big year for these guys and if Saturday's performance is anything to go by then they are going to make their mark in a huge way. 

Already on a uphill battle following that performance, The Monty Hall Problem took the stage next. A much younger band than TSF, it's clear there's still a lot to learn for them. I caught myself a few times when watching their set saying to myself that I'd heard a lot of their riffs before and my immediate reaction was to think of the scene in Treme where Annie T performs her first song to Steve Earle's Harley and he tells her how it is, "You changed the progressions...at least you're stealing big." And that, my friends, is why the world is full of players. The band only have 5 songs to play, and this bodes well because one would hope they can find their own sound early on, rather than building on riffs out of other people's playbooks that they have already. 

With the room now fully packed out, it was time for our headliners, Cherri Fosphate to take the stage. Their live reputation proceeds them and they do not disappoint. Their songs take on a whole new life in the live setting, big riffs become even bigger and more infectious than on record. As they are celebrating the release of their 'Burning Youth' EP, all 4 songs on the EP make an outing and 'Wool' is a definite live highlight. We are also treated to an as-yet unnamed new song that bodes incredibly well for their future beyond this EP, it has the elements of all their previous efforts but shows definite advancement too and the crowd is thoroughly impressed. Their set comes to an end all too soon but the crowd is not done with them yet, chanting and cheering to bring them back for a well-deserved encore. The band tell us they don't think they are big enough encores yet but the reaction on Saturday night proved otherwise, and even though they spent more time in rehearsal talking about whether they'd get an encore rather than rehearsing 'Heart Without Strings' that they'd play for us, it still goes down brilliantly and ends the night on a high. This band are definitely going places.

There are lots of options in Glasgow on a Saturday night but I'm glad that this was mine. A brilliant celebration for an equally brilliant EP.