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Street Voice UK Music Magazine



Dernière mise à jour : 9/02/2010

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Statut : Célibataire
Ville : Margate
Région : South
Pays: UK
Date d’inscription :: 26/07/2005
vendredi, novembre 23, 2007 




NOVEMBER 2007 REVIEWS


If you want your material reviewed please send all Press Packs to:

PO BOX 410/MARGATE/KENT/CT9 3RB/ENGLAND/UK

For all other information please write to:

streetvoice@yahoo.co.uk


PLEASE NOTE:


This site will be updated throughout November. Please do keep coming back



REVIEWS



ANDI SEX GANG - Blind: Andi Sex Gang was the main man behind cult Goth legends Sex Gang Children who went on to release this cracking album in 1985. I don't remember the music press making too much of a fuss over this album but from what I can remember Goths were queuing up and down the country to get hold if this baby. Whatever peope, thought of the Goth scene back then it was pretty original with poeple like Andi Sex Gang about and the proof of the pudding lies in this album. This is a good solid album that has stood the test of time with tracks such as 'Ecstasy And Vendetta', 'immigrant', 'Dying Fall' and 'I've Done It All Before'. Fans of Goth music will love this and what more this re-issue comes with five bonus tracks too. Some really good sleeve notes and packaging too. 8/10

Cherry Red Records


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ARISE AND RUIN - The Final Dawn: This album started off so well but then but for me got boring by the time I got to the fifth track 'Amidst Devils'. It's not the band can't play it's just that this style of metal gets a little predictable and it don't matter how good the musicians if you just rely on the tightness in your sound alone. There also has to be some imagination and different ideas thrown into break up what essentionally is a very heavy album. By track eight I found myself suffering with a slight headache! In fact it became that predictable and heavy I had to turn it off. Fans of extreme metal will probably love this one but for me it was just too much. Sorry guys. 5/10

Victory Records

Arise And Ruin On My Space


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THE AUTUMN OFFERING - Fear Will Cast No Shadow: I really love these guys since I heard their debut album Revelations Of The Unsung which just blew me away. and this release is no different. The catchy Metal/Rock tunes are still there with some excellent Screamo/Metal vocals to boot. All fans of Metal/Rock will get something from this album as The Autumn Offering are far from your average band. The consistency throughout shows what talent these guys have and you can hear for yourself on tracks such as 'The Castaway', 'Silence And Goodbye', 'Your Time Is Mine' and the title track 'Fear Will Cast No Shadow'. This album really does what it says on the tin and more! A great Metal/Rock band that desrve to be huge. 9.5/10

Victory Records

The Autumn Offering



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BC CAMPLIGHT - Suffer For Two: This song was inspired by founder of BC Camplight 'Brian Christinzio' who after suffering a period of mental illness visited prisons nas asylums across America. What you have is Christinzio's take on thie lyrically coupled with some bouncy tunes. In parts it reminds me of the Madness in their latter days. Certainly a great song that caught my attention the moment I put it in the player. 8.5/10

One Little Indian Records

BC Camplight On My Space


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THE BIRTHDAY MASSACRE - Walking With Strangers: I've been spoilt to death this month with some high quality albums and this trend coninues with a faultless album by this Canadian Electronica Rock band. The quality throughout 'Walking With Strangers' is just amazing. How I've never heard of the Birthday Massacre before I don't know because I've certainly missed out. There's some sheer brilliance and imagination in the music department. Even the kyeboards which I'm not that usually fond in this style of music sound mint on this recording. You really couldn't wish for a better album and the icing on the cake are the amazing vocals from Chibi. She has to be one of the best female vocalists I've ever had the pleasure of hearing. Such is the high quality of this album there aren't any tracks that stand out simply because they all do the business for me. There's twelve tracks in all and everyone of them so desrves to be heard by you. This comes well packaged and highly produced and a winner all round. 10/10

Metropolis Records

The Birthday Massacre On My Space

Joint Album Of The Month


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CLAIRE TOOMEY - Found: It's criminal that I have been sent a one track CD with a fantastic pop song on. There should have been more as 'Found' is an excellent song about finding strength to pick yourself when you're down. From start to finish this catchy song just makes you feel good and what tops this song off are Claire's vocals just fit so well with this wicked song. An artist certainly worth checking out in the future. 9/10

Claire Toomey On My Space


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COHEED AND CAMBRIA – No World For Tomorrow: Despite these guys releasing three previous albums I'd never heard of them and my partner had to tell me something about them! What you get for your money is a pretty tight traditional rock album with a modern feel which includes a few twists and turns here and there. It didn't really do a lot for me on the first hearing but they did enough to be drawn back to this album and what I hear now I really like. There's some excellent guitar riffs and bass lines throughout this album which really make this album the record it is. Just listen to Travis Stever and Caludio Sanchez on guitars and Mic Todd on bass. Between them they create some wicked tunes which compliment Sanchez' vocals and Chris Pennie's drumming. A pretty much personal album lyric wise but the words are delivered well which is the most important thing. There's thirteen tracks in all and not one filler throughout. If rock music is your poison then give these guys a listen. 8/10

Columbia Records


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DAVID ROVICS - The Commons: David Rovics is often considered the modern day Woody Guthrie and going on the basis of this live release I really do have to agree with the comparison. David's brand of folk music is so addictive and on top of some well played music his lyrics are politically spot on. There's seventeen tracks in all and despite the vast amount of songs on here there are no fillers. If you're after a good solid political folk album then this surely has to be the first port of call with tracks such as 'New Orleans', 'Who Would Jesus Bomb?', 'They're Building A Wall' and 'Behind The Barricades'. You may get the idea that David hasn't a sense of humour due to the political content on this album but you'd be wrong. He breaks up the seriousness with some fun too - Check out 'I'm A Better Anarchist Than You' for proof of that. Not only do you get a great live album both lyrically and musically I have to say the production is spot on. All in all another great release from David Rovics and if you've never heard of this man then you really need to sort yourselves out. 9/10

Irregular Records

David Rovics On My Space


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DEAD KENNEDYS - Milking The Sacred Cow: This could be considered a bit of a cash since these tracks are so widely available elsewhere. The band/label would argue that this is the first time these tracks have appeared on one album but that's up for you to decide. What you get for your money are ten studio and two live tracks covering the Dead Kennedy's musical history. Some of the tracks include Holiday In Cambodia, Too Drunk Too Fuck, California Uberalles and MTV Get Off The Air. I thought there would have been a bit more effort put into the packaging like you find on many Cherry Red releases but sadly this was missing. I guess this will appeal to die hard DK's fans and the kids just getting into them. It wont do a lot for anyone else for the reason I stated earlier in this review. 6.5/10

Cherry Red Records


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DERRIN NAUENDORF - Shipwrecked: I really didn't fancy listening to this there track single when I saw the front cover but begrudgingly I gave this a listen as was quite surprised. The title track 'Shipwrecked' is a catchy bluesy/folk track which even though has a commercial feel can also be equally enjoyed by grassroots fans too. 'Dance Steps' is a great follow on to 'Shipwrecked' even though it has a more of a country feel to it. Closing with 'My Enemy' see's Mr Nauendorf gioing back to his blues/folk roots which is the icing on the cake to this release. This is certainly a release to consider if you're a fan of blues/folk and on the basis of this release can see why this guy has played over 1200 gigs around the world. 8/10

Derrin Nauendorf On My Space


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D.O.A. - The Black Spot: This album originally came out in 1995 and had certainly stood the test of time. If you're after one of the best Punk albums to come out of Canada in the nineties then you really do need to pick this one up. On drums features John Wright of No Means No who stepped in when Keth Jensen tragically died in a house fire. This death fuelled the band to record an album that certainly outshone their previous couple of offerings and having Wright in the band put the sparkle back into the D.O.A. sound. Some great songs on here include 'Marijuna Motherfucker', 'More', 'Je Declare', and 'I Know Who You Are'. Sixteen kick ass Punk songs that certainly deserve to be re-issued to give both old and new D.O.A. fans a chance to hear some of the finer moments of D.O.A.'s musical history. 9/10

Sudden Death Records


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ELIZA - Empire Fall: I really enjoyed this alternative rock album simply because there was something more to this than other releases in this genre of music. Aside from excellently played music the vocals from Eliza are outstanding. Imagine Kate Bush meeting Nico and you'd get a good idea how good she actually sounds. Unfortunately the masses will never hear this album simply because it's not radio friendly and that is a good thing as it would be wasted on these people anyway. In all there's eleven tracks are all great in their own and you'll certainly find much pleasure listening to them. For me tracks like the opening and title track 'Empire Fall', 'Hjartagull', 'Queen Of Solitude' and 'Still Water' made the album for me but for some one else their choice of best tracks might be different such is the high standard of work on here. This album comes well produced and nicely packaged too. 9/10

Lavaland Records

Eliza On My Space


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ENTER SHIKARI – The Zone: Some might say this is just a cash in by a band who are pretty much on the road to success but the quality of what you get on this eight track mini album will answer those doubters. On hearing Enter Shikari for the first time I knew they were going to become huge and that's just what is happening. Kids all over the UK are packing out venues to hear this excellent HC/Screamo band doing what they do best. They're the second only un-signed band to pack out the Astoria in London and they've now sold over 100,000 copies of their debut album 'Take To The Skies'. Not bad for an un-signed band eh? Being an mini album of B-Sides and Rarities the opening track 'The Feast' is taken from a demo and a great opener to this release. What follows are seven other tracks which are remixed, taken from demos and downloads and I can safely say there's no fillers just great exciting tunes from a wicked up and coming British band. Quality is spot on and I'm sure if you've not heard Enter Shikari yet these tunes are a great introduction to them. 8.5/10

Enter Shikari

Enter Shikari On My Space


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FALLZ - Saviour: This is the first time I've had the pleasure of listening to this Miami based electronica/rock band and it's a pleasure I'm not going to forget in a while. Everything about this release is spot on and you really do have to give these a listen just to appreciate what they've achieved. Aya G not only is the most beautiful front woman in the music business but she delivers some amazing vocals and is also a great guitarist and Keyboardist. Brett Fisher delivers some awesome bass and guitar lines and Robert Collado shows excellent keyboard skills that fit in so well with the guitars. Between then this seven track EP is almost flawless and the passion for the music they play really does show in this release. Some would say they have a commercial sound but that's nonsense. What they have managed to do is create music that fans from both the commercial and independent sides of electronica rock will get into heavily. Every track is spot on and I only wish the Fallz had spent a bit more time in the studio and released an album instead. 9.5/10

Fallz On My Space


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THE FARM - All Together With The Farm CD: This is the CD that was realeased alongside the Back Together Live DVD that I reviewed last month. While it;'s always great to have an excellent show it's even better to have it available on CD too. Like the DVD this comes well packaged and features all the tracks that were on the DVD. The Farm were an excellent band and now you can enjoy the 2005 comeback show in London for the first time on CD. Like the DVD expect a top notch recording and production. 9.5/10


Dreamcatcher/Secret Records


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FUTURE IN PLASTICS - EPK: I hate electronic kits as a rule and hate reviewing them as I prefer to see and feel a hard copy of what a band releases. This Brooklyn based band impressed me enough to write a review as they have some great songs including 'X-Eyed Crystal', '(No) PDA in the CIA' and 'Snow'. Future In Pastics play Punk-Punk with some Pop tunes thrown in there to add a different dimension and you know it works well. They're a quality band who play really tight and vocalist Coco Medvitz adds the finishing touches to what are one of New Yorks finest bands. A band well worthy of being checked out. 9/10

Future In Plastics On My Space


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GAY FOR JOHNNY DEPP – The Politics Of Cruelty: If you're after a hard hitting screamo album that kicks ass then you must check out this excellent album from Gay For Johnny Depp. OK a strange name I hear you say but these four guys actually kick ass! Opening up this album is 'Compassion' and from there on there's no let back either. A band like Gay For Johnny Depp don't take prisoners and you'll find out when listening to tracks such as 'You Have A Theory, I Have A Gun', 'Lights Out', 'Very Little Good Happens Between 3 And 4 In The Morning' and 'I Hate Our Freedom (Fuck You Gladys, I'm On Vacation'. Some may think that just because this is a screamo album it'll sound the same as other relesases in that genre of music. You'd be wrong to prejudge this as they've plenty of originality in their music and that's the reason it sounds so good. Comes well produced and will be an album well worth you tracking down. 8.5/10

Captains Of Industry

Release Date: November 5th 07


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HELL'S BENT ON ROCKIN' (A History Of Psychobilly) - Craig Brackenbridge: Bracko (The Rednecks) has done a really outstanding job on this book written about the Psychobilly scene. Almost everything is covered as well as it could be with all the usual suspects featured including the Meteors, Demented Are Go, King Kurt, Klingonz, The Sharks, Guana Batz and Restless. Apart from featuring the well known bands Bracko has also featured the well known overseas bands including the Horrorpops, Mad Sin and Nekromantix which shows just what a phenonemen the Psychobilly scene has become. It's good to see the new and up and coming bands featured too. Bracko has left no stone unturned and that's what makes this book a shit hot read. There's over 220 pages oh history including many excellent photos and flyers/posters. If you're into Psychobilly then this book is a must. Comes highly recommended.

Cherry Red Books


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HELLSHOCK - Shadows Of The Afterworld: Hellshock are a Crust/Metal Punk band from the United States and going on this album you have eight does of brutality coming at you like a smack in the face with a baseball bat!! There's just no let up from start to finish and unlike most bands who play this genre of music it's actually a treat to hear everything going on. What's more they have some pretty decent lyrics too which are delivered as brutal as the music. On top of all this there's a great production and decent packaging to boot. A brillaint release for fans of Crust/Metal Punk. 8/10

Crimes Against Humanity Records


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HIFLYER - Promo: Hiflyer are a wicked pop band from the South East of England who blew me away with this five track promo CD. Musically just gel bringing you some excellent tunes which compliment Elle Williams vocals. You just have to hear Elle Williams vocals which are up there with the likes Sarah McLaughlin and Sheryl Crow. That is an achievement in itself as Elle's vocal chords were damaged during a procdure to clear her airwaves as a child. As a band they seem to be going places since they're working with the likes of Greg Hvaers (Manics Producer) and on the basis of this 5 track demo I really do hope they make the big time. As I said great pop tunes that need to be heard and I swear that they're going to be a name to be reckoned with in 2008. Watch this space! 9.5/10

Hiflyer On My Space


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INME - Caught White Butterfly Live: I have to admit I didn't really get in to this band until their recently released album 'Daydream Anonymous'. Their studio recordings before then were a bit boring but when heard live on this CD they sound so different. The engineer has captured a guitar band at their best with their songs sounding exciting on this live recording. It makes me sad to think I could have been at this gig but turned down a guest pass on my thoughts on their studio material. Oh well at least I feel I was there in spirit as this is one of the best live albums I've ever had the peasure of hearing. There's seventeen numbers in all including 'White Butterfly', 'Just A Glimpse', 'Parting Gift' and 'Safe In A Room'. As an added bonus this comes well packaged and certainly deserves to be in any rock fans collection. 9/10

Dreamcatcher/Secret Records


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INSOFAR - Medicine For The Melancholic: I've been waiting this mini album after being sent a taster earlier on this year and I can tell you this has been worth the wait. For far too long American Rock bands have been showing us how it's done but now we have a band that compete with anything that is coming out of the USA. From the start to finish of this eight track album you're just treated to some wicked tunes. Hannah Marie on guitar and Katy Briscoe on bass really know how to rock out! These two women gel so well it's unreal. Then there's some wicked vocal delivery from Paul B and keeping it all in time is Deadman on drums. This four piece have been getting nothing but shit hot reviews and I swear that they are well deserved. Once you hear this brilliant album you'll feel the same way. For me there's not one filler on here and there's not one song that stands out simply because they're all fucking brilliant. I love this album and this band. Simply the best. 10/10

Not On Your Radio

iNsoFar On My Space

Release Date: November 19th 07

Joint Album Of The Month


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IRENE RAE – Time Will Tell: Irene Rae never fails to impress me and this release is no different I like Irene's guitar playing and her powerful vocals which as a combination are up there with the likes of Tracey Chapman and Michelle Shocked. There's four tracks on this single and not one of them is a filler but for me the opening track 'Afraid' and 'Skindeep Beauty' are by far the best racks on here. For me they came across really potent as they drew me in deeper. On those two songs there's great music and excellent lyrics which saw me playing them over and over again. Having said that Time Will Tell' and 'Iscariot Belief(Live) weren't too far behind and are a welcome inclusions on this release. Irene Rae is a star and I wish she'd get around to releasing an album very soon. 9/10

Irene Rae/Iscarlet Records

Irene Rae On My Space


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JOHNNY PANIC - Keep Fighting The Good Fight: Since this album came through the post I haven't stopped playing it as this kicks ass big time. I'll even go as far to say this is the most exciting album I've heard in 2007 and what's more they're a British band too! Just recently there's been some UK bands that have come through big style who piss all over the bands coming out of America and Johnny Panic Are one of them. Taking their influences from the likes of the Clash, Guns N Roses and The Specials and adding their own ideas this album is full of wicked tunes from start to finish. From the opening moment of 'Heroes And Villians' right through to the final track 'The End Is Near' you're just treated to some of the best Rock music that has been heard in years. Johnny Panic certainly know how to entertain and entertain they do with 'The Good Fight'. Not only do they have a brilliant album musically but the lyrics are spot on too. This band have so much passion for their music and the proof lies in this album that it would be sheer criminal not to give this band a listen. They know how to rock and along with bands like iNsoFar the UK is going to be spoiled with it's own artists instead of relying on bands from the USA to entertain us. Production is spot on and packaging is second to none. An album not to be missed! 10/10

Repeat Records

Johnny Panic On My Space

Release Date: 12th November 07

Joint Album Of The Month


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KAT VIPERS - Hot Air Balloon: Kat Vipers has more to her than just a pretty face. This lady writes some excellent material unfortunately which will never be appreciated by the mainstream. Kat's music is so hard to define and she doesn't restrict herself and if she has to be labelled then I'd got for a 'Jazz, Punk Pianist'. From start to finish this EP has some excellent written words and music about a bitter story of love and betrayal. The energy and love for her music hits you through every track. If people were to remove their blinkers and check out Kat Vipers they would be impressed with what they hear. Certainly one of the best and most captivating releases of 2007. 9.5/10

Kat Vipers On My Space


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LABRETTA SUEDE AND THE MOTEL 6 - Not Food Hungry: What do you combine a hot female vocalist and musicians who play a blend of Garage, Blues and Rockabilly? You get New Zealand band Labretta Suede and The Motel 6 who kick ass both image and music wise. This twelve track album is a testament to how a Garge band should sound like and I've enjoyed every moment of it from start to finish. There's some great tracks on here including 'Holler', 'New Orleans', 'Girls Like Betty' and 'Mr Mysterious'. I really enjoyed this album that much that it was turned up full when writing this review but my neighbours didn't get the same appreciation but fuck them they're boring fuckers anyway. How could anyone complain about the brilliance coming from this album? Labretta Suede really does do the business vocal wise on here delivering every word with passion. Johnny Moon Dog and Jay L really do a great job on guitar and bass and their style of play really make this album what it is. They play in a style that many Garage bands try but don't quite get it right. Love this album to bits and anyone into the Garage sound will love this too. Not only that but this comes well packaged with a great booklet of shots which includes a rear shot of Labretta Suede. She's got the best ass in Rock N Roll without a doubt. 9/10

Labretta Suede and The Motel 6 On My Space


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LEAD BALLOONS - Dont Let That Go To Waste: The Lead Balloons are an Indie Pop band from Manchester way and the two songs on this double A-Side single are catchy Indie Pop numbers that are really enjoyable numbers. Despite claims of some Michael Jackson influence in here but I can't quite figure that out in these two songs anyway. The engineer has captured everyone at their best and I have to say that I'll be surprised if this single doesn't sell by the bucket load as most Indie bands today don't quite grasp how to write a good tune like these guys do. Indie Pop at it's best. 9/10

Lead Balloons On My Space

Release Date: December 3rd 2007


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LOS SALVADORES - Attack Of The Clones: Folk Punk our only hope? It states this on the front cover of this album and if it's our only hope then it's hope I'd readily go along with. I didn't think Los Salavdores could capture the energy of their live shows in the studio and on most part I've been proved wrong. There's eleven tracks on this album that just leave you wanting more as the recordings on here leave you with a feeling of optimism. Opening up with 'Leviatham' constantly flows through other mumbers such as 'My Coloured Town'. 'The Drinking Song', 'Path Into The Sea' closing with 'Give In To The Clown'. Both lyrically and musically Los Salvadores do what they do best and that is to entertain. Nothing more nothing less. Aside from a great album both the band and their label have got a really good production and packaging is top notch too. If Folk Punk is our only hope then I'm right behind Los Salvadores. 9/10

Corndog Records

Los Salvadores On My Space


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LR ROCKETS – Personality / Pincer Movement: Art/Goes/Pop are onto another winner with this excellent release from this arty pop-punk band LR Rockets. The opening track 'Personality' is wicked song that would have had me jumping over my front room if I wasn't suffering with a bad chest!! A great record which is short but has great tunes and plenty of balls. 'Pincer Movement' is up there with the opening track too! Another song that just shows this band have the bollocks to go out there playing what they want to play instead of playing it safe. Top stuff indeed. 9/10

Art/Goes/Pop Records

LR Rockets On My Space


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THE MACHINES - Promo EP: I read about the machines in Alex Ogg's wicked book 'No More Heroes' when it was first released and was quite surprised to find this five track in the post this morning. What you have here is a '77 Punk band reforming to bring you five well played tracks which are heavily influenced by the early Ramones and Heartbreakers sounds. While the band are going back to their roots I have to say their sound also contains something frash and vibrant that is missing from many Punk bands doing the rounds today. In fact they sound much better than many of the larger Punk bands that have reformed and just happy to cash in by putting any old tosh out. As I said there's five tracks on here and not one filler either. For me the tracks Weekend', 'Girl in Black' and 'Don't Be Fooled' did it for me though the other two weren't far behind. If you love the early Punk sound then check out this Southend based band. 8/10

The Machines On My Space


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MADDING CROWD – Turn Off The Radio: This song is a free download which is a song about claustrophobia and frustrations in every day city life that fills people's head with stuff that they don't need so many of you out there should be able to relate to this song. While Turn Off The Radio isn't the best indie tune doing the rounds at the moment I like what they're trying to achieve with the song. It makes a change that there's an intelligent band out there who don't have to resort to writing lyrics about being dumped etc. Madding Crowd are a band that are worth checking out despite this song not blowing me away! 7/10

Madding Crowd On My Space


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MADDING CROWD - Modern Man: The jury has been out regards whether or not I like this band and the verdict is they're ok. I think they need to add a heavier guitar sound to their music so as to get away from that 'Deacon Blues' sound. There's three tracks in all and 'Modern Man' has got to be the best track on here though 'Up For Air' and 'Simple' aren't too far behind. They're all well played numbers which are a good introduction to this band but as I said they really do need to toughen up their sound to be able to compete with other bands playing independent guitar music. 7/10

Madding Crowd On My Space


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MARGOT MACDONALD - Christmas: The whole idea of this five track single is to benefit the Ground Control Drunk Driving Campaign which raises awareness on that important issue and at the same time saving lives in doing so, 100% of the proceeds from this EP will go to the organisation so please dig deep. For your money you get sixteen year old Miss MacDonald singing covers of '2000 Miles' (The Pretenders) and 'Dark Eyes' (Bob Dylan) in a traditional way which would make the song writers very proud. Brilliantly done. On top of that traditional christmas songs 'Ave Maria' and 'O Holy Night' are sung beautifully and I have to say Margot's voice just has to be heard. There's not many people who could sing these songs as special as what Margot has done. However the best is left until last with 'Never Again' written by Margot and John Carroll which is about drink driving. The words say it all and they are delivered well in this powerful song. I can't fault this EP at all and if you have it in your heart then please do support this cause. 10/10

Margot MacDonald Xmas CD

Joint EP/Single Of the Month


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THE MARS PATROL - Making Memories: The Mars Patrol have come so far since the days of just Davina Divine and Ross Nelson when they just played acoustic music. This excellent song writing duo got a band together and have been putting out some of the best Power-Pop tunes that Britain has ever heard. This six track EP is no exception and has been played all day today. Making Memories is really the nuts. Those wicked tunes and Davina's amazing tunes are just something else. The Mars Patrol are a band that should be huge with at least two albums to their belts by now. They really are a breath of fresh air and you'll find that out for yourselves when you play this EP from start to finish. As soon as the first song comes into play you're drawn into something very special. I love these guys and I really really can't recommend this release enough. Awesome is an understatement. Get the picture? 10/10

The Mars Patrol On My Space

Joint EP/Single Of the Month



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MEDUSA - S/T: I don't know why bands don't send out the proper release instead of CDR's which tend to jump here and there on normal music systems. Inbetween the tracks jumping I enjoyed what I heard from this 3-piece classic rock band. There's eight tracks in all and I only managed to play four without any jumps but if the classic rock sound is your scene then this band are worth checking out. There's some great guitaring from Julian Molinero complimented with some tight bass lines from Kym Brondel all kept in time with some excellent drum work from Scampi Strachan. If bands like Van Halen and Twisted sister do it for you then you should check these guys out. 7.5/10

Medusa On My Space


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MILLOY - More Than A Machine: As soon as I put this on the player I automatically thought these were American until I read the press sheet and realised they're from Wakefield in Yorkshire/UK. While some would grumble that we Brits copy America too much I would go along with that but when you're listening to an album of really high quality you have to forgive and forget. I'd rather listen to Milloy than most of the pretentious rubbish coming from the West Coast of the USA at the moment. I can see why these guys have shared stages with the likes of Snuff, Leatherface and Hell Is For Heroes is because they so deserve it going on the basis of this album. I've played this a few times now and it gets more pleasurable with every listen. There's twelve tracks in all and some right killer on songs include 'Blackjack', '(The boy with no) Shoes', 'Mirror Signal Manoeuvre' and 'February' which put these guys at the top of modern Punk/HC. Not only do you get a great album muiscally but it comes well packaged too. 9/10

Household Name Records


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MINDLESS SELF INDULGENCE - You'll Rebel To Anything:
Over the years Punk Rock has taken on many forms and when you thought you'd heard it all some one comes along and adds the Electronic element and before you know it everyones at it! However Mindless Self Indulgence are one of the up and coming bands taking it to a new level and making a great name for themselves around the gig circuit and quite rightfully so. 'You'll Rebel To Anything' captures M.S.I. at their very best and anyone who has rthe sense to pick this album up wont be left disappointed. There's some quality guitar and bass lines throughout from Steve and Lyn Z. Kitty keeps it all tiogether on drums leaving Little Jimmy Urine to do what he does best and this is to entertain. The electronic elements fit well in with their Punk sound and I reckon John Lydon would be proud of this four piece. Just check out tracks like 'Shut Me Up', 'What Do They Know?', 'Bullshit' and the titkle track 'You'll Rebel To Anything'. As a bonus you get four extra tracks plus a video making this album well giood value for money. It comes well packaged and production is second to none. If you want something a little different then give this album a listen. 9/10

Metropolis Records

Mindless Self Indulgence On My Space


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THE MOB  - May Inspire Revolutionary Acts: I don't know why this has been released as there's an extrensive back catalogoue of the Mobs disography 'Let the Tribe Increase' released through the same label. I would get that release rather than this compilation as what you have here are the tracks Overground couldn't fit onto the disography. I reckon they would have been better off giving this away with the 'Let the Tribe Increase' disography as a limited edition bonus CD as the quality of recordings on here are dodgy to say the least. This will probably appeal to diehard fans of the Mob but no one else. What you have on this compilation are twenty tracks taken from the likes of their 'Ching' 1981 cassette, 'A Tribute To Bert Weedon' cassette and a few live tracks from 1983. Comes well packaged with some decent sleeve notes but I can't help but feel this is a bit of a cash in. 6/10

Overground Records

Release Date: December 10th 07


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MOROS EROS - Jealous Me Was Killed By Curiosity: This is an intersting album that Victory have release but it's one well worthy of release. Moros Eros are as far from HC/Metal as one could possibly get but their Experimental Indie/Rock sound just has to be heard. There's plenty of twists and turns in this album and thats what keeps it from being predictable. You have to give credit to this four piece for being imaginative with their music . As well as the inspirational music on this release you can't help but notice how well the vocals are written and how those words are delivered. The music and words compliment each other really well and to me that is a sure sign of a great album that has to be heard. I don't think Victory may have been the right label for this band but fair play to them for giving Moros Eros the chance to record this album. 9/10

Victory Records

Moros Eros On My Space


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NAPALM DEATH - Leaders Not Followers: This is a 1999 EP release where Napalm Death covered some of their favourite tunes from various bands as dicerse as the Dead Kennedy's, Raw Power, Repulsion and Slaughter. Rather than just copy these songs with no thought put in it has to be said Napalm Death have added their unique playing style which puts a different dimension to the covered the songs. For me the best one has to be the cover of 'Nazi Punks Fuck Off' which even the likes of Jello Biafra would be proud of! All songs are well produced and comes with a booklet about why they chose each song etc. 8/10


Dreamcatcher/Secret Records


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NAPALM DEATH - Enemy Of The Music Business: Aarrrrrrrgghhh! Screammmmm! Aarrrrggghhhh! Yeah this is Napalm Death at their best playing their music fast and hard. This 14 track album released in the year 2000 was pretty on and tracks such as 'Vermin', 'Blunt Against The Cutting Edge', 'Thanks For Nothing' and 'C.S. (Conservative Shithead) Pt 2' are a testament to why these guys were always leaders in their genre of music. Not only was their music pretty tight but their lyricsw were spot on too and delivered wirth venim. I don't know if these guys are still going but if there's one album you should have in your collection it's this one. 8.5/10

Dreamcatcher/Secret Records


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NIGHTS LIKE THESE - Sunlight At Secondhand: Bands like Napalm Death, Carcass and Slayer have a lot ot answer for at times though I guess it isn't their fault if bands like Nights Like These take it too far! I really don't know how this got passed the quality control at Victory as I can't find a good word to say about it! OK so there's a little diversity here and there but not enough to save this experimental metal album. If you like your music to be somewhere between the worst elements of Napalm Death and the Melvins then you might just like this one. I had to turn turn after track four. 2/10

Victory Records

Nights Like These On My Space


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NOFX - They've Actually Gotten Worse Live: Well you should all know what Fat Mike and Co are like by now and this album is a testament to what a great live band these are. With NOFX it just isn't just about the music there's all fun bits inbetween the songs too and you get plenty of both. Recorded live in Jnauary of this year there's twenty four tracks in all including new versions of old songs and some new/rare songs too! Yeah this is a must for all NOFX and fans of American Punk and with tracks such as Franco Un-American, Murder the Government, I Wanna Be an Alcoholic, What's the Matter With Parents Today? and What Now My Love you really can't go wrong. Quality is spot on and for all you vinyl freaks this comes out on double album as well as on CD format. This comes with a cool booklet with plenty of fun shit on that too! 9/10

Fat Wreck Chords Records

Release Date: November 20th 07


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PALEDAY - EuroTramp CD Sampler: Er.....If you're into catchy disco tunes like the Bee Gee's then you'll love this one but for me it's completely wasted on me. I didn't get past the second track. Knowing my luck these will probably storm the charts in 2008 but Disco music is something I've always hated and think of anything good about it. Sorry guys and Gal.

Paleday On My Space


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PAMA INTERNATIONAL - Highrise: This is the new three track single from the Pama International which as per usual is far from predictable and is filled with some great Ska/Dub tunes from start to finish. The opening track 'Highrise' is the best track on here which also features guest vocals from Michie One who has also worked with the likes of Beenie Man, Gwen Stefani and Shaggy. The other two tracks I haven't a clue what they're called but I believe they're a taster to come from a Pama International release is 2008. One has full vocals and the other is an istrumenatl which aren't far behind 'Highrise'. This is a wicked single from Sean Flowerdew and co and if you've never heard anything by Pama International before then maybe this release should be the one to check out. 9/10

Rockers Revolt Records

Pama International On My Space


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PAPARAZZI WHORE - I'd Rather Be Infamous Than Famous: What an apt name for a title which sums up this band completely. Whereas many bands try to go down the fame route the same can't be said of this Hull based band. Micci Oaten's lyrics and how they are delivered are testament to that. Radio friendly they are not but who gives a flying fuck when you have an album as good as this? From start to finish you're treated to some great Punk/Rock songs with heavy bass lines and a vocalist that is the female equivalent of John Lydon. Forget all the vocal comparisons to Debby Harry and Anabella Lwin - They just aren't there. For starters they sing too nice and that is something that Micci Oaten doesn't do and more importantly shouldn't do. I'd have to shoot Micci if she even tried copying Harry or Lwin. She's one of the best female vocalist ever to do the rounds in Rock N Roll and this album proves it. The bass lines from her fella Chris Oaten are spot on - What a bassist. Throughout this album he plays solidly and surely has got to be one of the best bassist in the UK at present. What's more they throw in keyboards and have guest guitarists which breaks up this album and more importantly keeps it diverse. As I said elsewhere this band are a cross between PIL and Bikini Kill. The passion is there, they are a tight outfit and what's more my favourite band in the UK at present. Even better they've got more to come but this album shows what a kick ass band Paparazzi Whore really are and I love them for it. 9.5/10

Paparazzi Whore On My Space


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THE PHOTOS - S/T: When the name of the Photos was brought up I couldn't remember if I'd heard of them before but on receiving this CD I realised I had once I realised the vocalist was the gorgeous Wendy Wu. The Photos were the UK's answer to Blondie and weren't too far far removed from the likes of the Buzzcocks either. They did a blinding job too. What you get for your money on this release is the self titled top 5 album album which was released in 1980 , the bands debut single 'I'm So Attractive' and the entire 'Blamail Tapes' album of out-takes and demo's. The Photo's maybe considered quite poppy to todays standards but back in the hey day they sounded harder. Still this is really good release which brought back some ace memories of how the bands in the late 70's/early 80's sounded. Twenty three tracks in all and not one bad one amongst them. Brilliant. Comes with some wicked sleeve notes too! Since they're still around how about a new album guys? 8.5/10

Cherry Red Records


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THE PRESS - The Complete Press 1984 - 1994: The Press may not be the worlds best band but they were certainly a great Oi! band and in my eyes the only American band who got the Oi! sound down to a tee. While many Oi! fans wank over the likes of Cock Sparrer and their new album bands like the Press go forgotten and that's criminal. Maybe it's because the Press didn't write dumb songs? Who knows? But I tell you  what this fifteen track album is well worth picking up from NYC's finest. Just have a listen to great tracks such as 'Is It Any Wonder?', 'Shut Your Fucking Mouth' and the wicked '21 Guitar Salute' then try telling me these weren't a wicked Oi! band. Great lyrics which meant something backed up with some great solid Oi! tunes so you really can't go wrong with this release. A fitting tribute to the band who helped found Skinheads Against Racial Prejudice. Comes well packaged even though Gal Bushell wriote the sleeve notes - Let's face it a few years ago he would have had this band down as 'Commies'. How times change but at least Bushell's words are true. Forget all the other shit that Oi! threw out and check out a band who've never been given the same re-issue treatment until now. 9/10

Insurgence Records


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THE ROXY LONDON WC2 (A Punk History) - Paul Marko: For a man who wasn't old enough to have been old enough to visit the Roxy in London during the early days of Punk has written what is a very well written and researched book, This is Paul's first book and all I can say this is one book certainly worth picking up due to this not being the usual run of the mill books that concentrate on the early days of Punk. For one thing there's very little mention of the Pistols - Lets face it they weren't the only band doing the rounds in '76/77. The title gives it away and much of this book is based around the infamous Roxy club that gave a stage for many bands including the likes of the Adverts, The Buzzcocks, Cherry Vanilla, Johnny Thunders, Siouxsie And The Banshees and many many more. This book contains over 500 pages which includes 270 many previously unseen photos and quotes from many of the bands and punters who played/hung out at the Roxy. There's some contradictions from various people but that's down to how individuals saw the Roxy from their own eyes and that can only be a good thing as you get differing perspectives. Forget many of the books doing the rounds on early Punk and buy this one as Paul Marko's book is the nuts and deserves the support. Well worth the £19.99 cover price.

Punk 77 Books


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THE SEQUINS -The Death of Style: This album starts off well but by seventh track you begin to feel you've had enough which is a shame as the quality of the early tracks such as 'Catholic Guilt' and 'Everyone Loves The Sequins' are really good indie pop songs worthy of release. Towards track seven they begin to tread in to 'Radiohead' mode as they could have done much more with songs like 'Let's Go Drinking In The Morning' and 'The French Way Of Life'. My partner will probably murder me for not really praising this release but I hate Radiohead with a passion and any band that tries to draw their influences from such a band must be suicidal. They have some great ideas, well written lyrics and can certainly play so there was no need to go down the Radiohead road at all. Aside from that this album comes well produced and at least some effort and imagination has gone into the packaging. 6.5/10

Tough Love Records

The Sequins On My Space


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SLAVES TO GRAVITY - Meantime Promo: I like most of what this band have achieved with this song but they sure do need a new start to the song. I hate all that weird shit that bands add to their sound when they don't really need it. Slaves To Gravity don't need all the thrills because their music is spot on. The standard of musicianship on this one song is high and a band that certainly need checking out. Just wish they'd have sent out a few more tunes on this CD as they've got something about them. 7.5/10

Gravitas Records

Slaves To Gravity On My Space


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THE SLACKERS - The Boss Harmony Sessions: I guess this what many term as an 'Official Bootleg' as I don't think this is an official studio album. There's 14 Ska tracks on here and while they aren't as strong as their past albums these aren't to be sniffed at either. What has been caught here are a band being taken into the studio and doing something a little different to what they'd normally put out. Whereas some fans of Slackers might not aprecdiate the direction the band have taken with these tracks I can safely say the vast majority will get pleasure from them. Having DJ Boss Harmony involved has been a good move and one I hope they carry on when they come to record their new full player. Some of the best tracks on here include 'Feed My Girl Ska', 'Mind Your Own Business', 'Ska Boheme' and 'Lil Joe'. Certainly an album well worth checking out if you love well played Ska and a must if you're a Slackers fan. 8/10

Rockers Revolt Records

The Slackers On My Space


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SONIC BOOM SIX - Arcade Perfect: Even though the name Sonic Boom Six are a known band to me I've never really checked them out but going on this album I've missed out big time. Throughout this album there's a healthy mixture of well played Ska Punk with Hip Hop and Reggae being thrown in to make this a very a very pleasurable listening experience. There's eleven tracks in all and it feels that all the songs have been given the same love and attention which means once you turn this baby on on I guarantee you wont be turning off or flicking through the tracks. The sign of a great album is when you have to play the whole thing from start to finish and this is what you have with 'Arcade Perfect'. Just check out tracks like 'Aracde Perfect', 'Sound Of A Revolution', 'Meanwhile, Back In The Real World' and 'Ya Basta' (which features members of Suicide Bid in the song) and you'll figure out what I'm saying about this album is spot on. Sonic Boom Six have done a blinding job here with the help of excellent engineer 'Pete Miles' and between them they've put together an album that really does need to be heard. To ignore 'Arcade Perfect' would be sheer criminality as this is going to be in my top ten albums of 2008. An independent release that really is going to bring Sonic Boom Six even bigger things in 2008. 10/10

Sonic Boom Six

Joint Album Of The Month


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THE START - Ciao, Baby: I hadn't heard the name 'The Start' for a long while and was surprised to have an email about a new release. Once I saw that email I had to check out them to see if they were still as good as the 'Initiation' album I have by them. As soon as I put this album in the CD Tray I was immediately won over and it's fair to say they are even better than ever! Their dark Indie/Rock tunes show what a brilliant band they are and on listening to tracks like 'Just Fantasy', 'Dance Revolution' and the title track 'Ciao, Baby' confirms that. Jamie Miller on Guitar/Synthesizers, Lance Webber on Bass/Guitar and Chelsea Davis on Drums are excellent musicians who play with style fronted by the gorgeous Aimee Echo on Vocals who has one hell of an amazing voice. It's not every often you come across bands like the Start and I for one think this baby kicks ass. 'Ciao, Baby' also comes with a great production and packaging is spot on too! 9.5/10

Metropolis Records

The Start On My Space


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STIFF LITTLE FINGERS - Wasted Life (Live): Some may argue that there's enough live SLF material to not warrant anymore but it has to be said while I do agree with those people you can't not help not ignore this three disc box set. Maybe this is the one SLF box set everyone shout get as it's got all their best numbers throughout their musical history spread over two discs. The third disc happens to be a DVD with Jake Burns being interviewed. Not only that but you get a little colour fold out sleeve in the boxset with some words written by writer Alan Parker. The quality is top notch both musically and visually. Once you have this release you'll never need buy another SLF live album again. 8/10

ShakeDown/Secret Records


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STONEY - The Scene And The Unseen: Despite this artist being described as 'Rock' and 'Indie' I fail to see the links myself as this has a very commercial guitar feel to it. Stoney does have his moments on here with the song 'Jake' but that's about it really for me. While this may not be my thing I'm surprised this guy isn't bigger than he is as the music is very radio friendly and could definetely be sold to the masses. There's twelve tracks in all and I'm sure people into a more commercial guitar sound will certainly get more from this than I have done. The music is well played, the vocals are delivered well but as I said this was too nice for me to get into it.
6/10

Mark Stoney


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TEEDO - You Are My Girl: Hmmm! I'm not too sure about this band at all. I can see what they're trying to do but they're fighting a losing battle trying to commercial the glam sound the way that they have. Musically they are very competent at what they do and throughout all four track you can only admire their passion for what they're doing but for most people into the glam sound aren't going to be impressed with the amount of keyboards thrown in. I don't know what crowd Teedo are going to aiming their music at because I think they'll also alienate the commercial fan of music too. I'd like to them go back in the studio re-record the tracks minus the keyboards and really give those guitars some hell. 6.5/10

ICBM Records

Teedo On My Space


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THIS IS STANDOFF - Be Excited: This Is Stand Off formed from the ashes of Canadian Punk band 'Belvedere' who were on the verge of making it big time and if you ever had the pleasure of hearing them you'd know why. While their tunes of Belverdere were melodic the same can't be said of this album. This Is Standoff have toughened their sound up and are one hell of an explosive Punk band. Throughout this album there's just no limits to the energy and while they have taken on a much harder sound the tunes are still there and that's what counts. From the opening moment of 'Better Than All Of Us' this album just gives you one grreat song after another. Some of my faves include 'Where I Can't Be Heard', 'Silvio' and 'Fashio Faux Pas'. What really makes this album is the commitment these guys have put into it. You can hear they're playing their hearts throughout and I'm sure once you hear this baby you'll understand where I'm oming from. A wicked release from this Canadian outfit that would be sheer criminal to ignore. 9.5/10

Household Name Records


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TOTAL CHAOS - Punk Invasion: I don't know how these guys made it so big really. For years I saw hundreds of people wearing Total Chaos t shirts but for me I never really knew what all the fuss was about! While their music is very tight and the lyrics are spot on I was hoping for more as I always thought they wanted to be an American version of the Exploited. This album released in 2002 carries on in true Total Chaos spirit but at least they've got a few tuneful numbers that have helped break up an album which came very close to being monotonous. There's twenty Two tracks in all and some of the better numbers on here include 'Tomorrow', 'Dopehead', 'Murdered', 'Time To Go' and 'Casualties Of Hollywood'. as well as a tight aand well produced album this comes nicely packaged and if you're a fan of Total Chaos and haven't got this in your colection pick it up as it's one of their better releases.
7/10

Dreamcatcher/Secret Records


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VINCE FREEMAN – Songs Without Shoes: I tend to like acoustic folk rock but I couldn't quite get into Vince Freeman as his songs are a tad too commercial sounding for me as I think the raw energy gives this music the edge. Having gone for a top production Freeman has lost what makes this genre of music so great. He should have learnt from the mistakes made by Billy Bragg who may have gone onto sell plenty of records but lost that touch that made his early records so great. It didn't help going for that Woody Guthrie look on the cover either! Anyway there's six tracks on this release and while they aren't bad there aren't no outstanding songs either. Still no doubt Vince Freeman will go onto sell a lot of records but it's a shame that it's going to be at the expense of a genre that rocks when played and recorded in the correct way. 6.5/10

Vince Freeman On My Space


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THE WARLOCKS - Heavy Duty Skull Lover: I remember their EP release on Bomp which I thought was dreadful and as time pased by you'd have thought this band would have gotten better but they're still the same - Awful. They try to create this Psychedelic / Rock / Experimental sound in the same vein of Velvet Underground. While the latter were succesful in much of their work the same can't be said of the Warlocks. While this album has it's moment s on most parts it just disintergrates into some tuneless racket. While their intentions maybe honourable I really can't see this shifting many units at all. I had to turn off by the fourth track 'Slip Beneath'. Even my partner who's into this kind of experimental sound couldn't sit through this album in one sitting!!! 2/10

Tee Pee Records

Release Date: November 19th 07


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WEIGHTLOSS – Our Thoughts Are Just Noise: Weightloss have been going for a fair while and have vastly improved since I heard their fist demo around four years ago. This is quality release from this tight as fuck ska-punk act and one of best releases I've heard this year. I'm surprised a label like HHN haven't picked up on these guys yet as when I saw them live a few weeks back they blew Sonic Boom Six off stage. No joke! Anyway there's fourteen tracks on this debut album and not one filler either! All the tracks complimented each other and unlike many ska-punk songs they didn't sound repetitive which just shows what talent these guys have. Just have a listen to the likes of 'The Perfect Waste Of Time', 'Eat In Peace', 'Tying Up The Loose Ends' and 'Led To Believe' which for me were the best tracks on here though the others weren't very far behind. If you just buy one ska-punk album this year make sure it's this one! 9/10

Spiky Black Cat Records

Weightloss On My Space


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WISHLIST - Failure Is Not An Option: I'm not the biggest fan of really HC metal as after a while it all becomes a little too predictable but Wishlist add a few bits here and there which breaks it up the extremity in the sound and gives you a more pleasurable listening experience. There's thirteen tracks in all and on most part they come across as a tight band. There's a few niggles here and there but not enough to spoil it. For me tracks like 'Being The Bigger Man', 'Rules Of Life', 'The Reopening Of Old Wounds' and 'The Enemies Of Our Enemies Are Not Our Allies' really did it for me. I would say this album is just as strong as some of the bands on say Victory Records and certainly this British metal band are worth checking out. Comes decently enough packaged and production isn't bad either. 7.5/10




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ZATOPEKS - Damn Fool Music: The Zatopeks are one of the best Pop-Punk bands whoi have a catchy 50's Ramonesy/Undertones style that is really enjoyable. In fact I can't think of a poor record that this band have released. I first came across them as we both had a liking for Canadian all female band 'Tuuli' and managed to catch them live a couple of times. A highly energetic live band that manage to catch it in the studio and that's what makes their tunes so exciting. There's no complicated chords just simply played tunes and that's all the Zatopeks need to do. Lets face it it never did the Ramones or Undertones any harm and it's certainly doing these guys no harm either. There's some right cracking tracks on here such as 'Radio Marya', 'Daily Mail', 'I Don't Want The Airwarves' and 'Song For Nina Simone'. The Zatopeks know how to rock and some of their members can even be forgiven for having ginger hair with the tunes they have recorded for this album. Comes well produced with some nice packaging too. Great band and decent folks too. Make sure you check them out. 9.5/10

Household Name Records

Zatopeks On My Space


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V/A - Not In Our Name: This compilation album has got to be the most important album released this year. It raises awareness to the ongoing conflicts in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Fifteen Folk artists from America, Australia and The UK play songs that will make you think. Some of these songs will stir all kinds of emotions inside you from laughter to tears but they're all written to make you think and what more - GET YOU INVOLVED! Not every song was my thing but there were some great songs on here from the likes of Emma's Revolution, Robb Johnson, Amy Martin and the brilliant David Rovics. Not only that but the CD comes well produced and packaged with even Tony Benn (President Of Stop The War Coalition) writing the foreword in the booklet. This is also a benfit for Stop The War Coalition so well worth supporting. 9/10

Songs For Change


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V/A - Ska Is Dead: The whole idea of this compilation came about as a result of the successfulI Ska Is Dead tours that were put together to show Ska music is as valid as ever. What I'm holding in my hand is the European version of this compilation which features many of the Ska bands that have appeared on these tours including the likes of the Planet Smashers, The Toasters, Westbound Train, Streetlight Manifesto, Chris Murray, Against All Authority, Voodoo Glowskulls and MU330. For fans of modern Ska this compilation album is a mint release with 23 tracks from 23 bands all of which show the bands at their best. For the people who thought Ska was dead this is positive proof that the scene is still alive and kicking with even the UK scene being featured on here by the likes of Chris Murray, The JB Conspiracy and Catch-It Kebabs who fly our flag high. Not only do you get a wicked album you also get one of the best packaged Cd's I've seen this year. This comes with sleeve notes and contact details for all the bands. For a mere £5 you really must pick this up! I love it! 10/10

Household Name Records

Note: I believe the American release is of similar low price. This European version features at least four tracks not featured on the American version.

Joint Album Of The Month