6 Thumper : Night People
Thumper are a Dublin six piece, who have recently released their first album ‘Delusions Of Grandeur’, a triumphant, moody, indie rock debut. Alongside Fontaines DC and The Murder Capital they’re one of the brightest new bands to emerge from Ireland in recent times.
8 The Lemonheads: The Ritz
Celebrating thirty years of ‘It’s A Shame About Ray’, Evan Dando returns to Manchester with his brilliantly effervescent melodic guitar tunes. Playing the album in its entirety, along with a selection of other enticing Lemonheads songs from across their ten album back catalogue this is one not to be missed. Support comes from the brilliant garage rock upstarts Bass Drum Of Death who are due to release a new album later this year.
9 SOAK: Yes
Following on from the stunning third album ‘If I Never Know You Like This Again’ released earlier this year, SOAK brings their shimmering melodic indie to Yes. Expect huge pop hooks melting into fuzzed up guitar lines and mesmerising vocals.
From the early days of creating handmade zines, in a DIY paper and glue style, interviewing bands around town, then pestering Piccadilly Records to sell them, to writing for various independent mags such as Chimp and Ablaze, writing about the music I love is still a great passion. After testing the music industry waters in London with stints at various labels, being back in my hometown again, writing about this city’s vibrant music scene is as exciting as ever. All time favourite bands include Sonic Youth, Nick Cave, Patti Smith although anything from electro to folk via blues and pysch rock will also do nicely too. A great album, is simply a great album, regardless of whatever musical cage you put it in.
