Single Review: Justice – On ‘N’ On

It is without doubt that Justice are one of the most iconic and influential French dance duos to successfully orientate themselves through the herds of sweaty makeshift bedroom DJ’s that make up a large part of the electronic dance scene. The mighty glowing crucifix takes centre stage during their shows and album artwork and it […]
The name Phenomenal Handclap Band may suggest a novelty act, but this Brooklyn-based outfit challenges no conventions. Instead it combines disco, dance and rock elements with varying levels of success, on second album Form & Control at least. When they nail it they really nail it. Opening number ‘Following’ is funky and addictive, the sort […]

Album Review: Phenomenal Handclap Band – Form & Control

EP: HAL – Down In The Valley EP

It never really happened for Hal. Seven years ago they were being overshadowed by the Magic Numbers at their co-headline show at the Roadhouse (as most bands would have been). A few months later they released their exceptional début album to mass public indifference. And then they disappeared The band’s return now is something of a surprise. […]
– BAND ON THE WALL, MANCHESTER – Arriving into the bar something of an official event appears to be underway. Charity stands, flyers and poster art for sale isn’t the usual greeting at Band on the Wall’s entrance. The crowd also breakaway from the regulars. Noticeably older with more than a strong hint towards the […]

LIVE: HANNAH ATKINS – 15/02/2012

Live: Real Estate – 17/02/2012

– THE DEAF INSTITUTE, MANCHESTER – Tonight’s sell-out Real Estate gig at the Deaf Institute sees New Jersey, indie-pop darlings, make a welcome return to Manchester following their last No Wave gig at Islington Mill back in October. This evening, is one of just five UK appearances of their nine-date European tour. It’s Friday night, the weekend’s […]
– THE DEAF INSTITUTE, MANCHESTER – Sunday has a magical quality. A dignified presence, the end of the week, and a time to reflect and contemplate the mysteries of life.  What better environment to do all this, than The Deaf Institute? You can usually find me on the dance-floor, twirling underneath the sparkling mirrorball… But […]

LIVE: FIELD MUSIC / STEALING SHEEP – 19/02/2012

LIVE: NME AWARDS TOUR 2012

– ACADEMY 1, MANCHESTER – Sorry, but this is going to be a biased review. I miss Azealia Banks due to the ridiculous idea of scheduling the first act 10 minutes after doors opening. I’m obviously disappointed to find out from the light technician that I have missed the filthy talking Azealia, who has been […]
Roedelius Plays Piano is a live concert recording that has lurked in the vault since the eighties and is only now seeing the light of day. Hans-Joachim Roedelius himself explains thusly: “I always knew that this concert would have to be made available some day. I was just waiting for the right moment, for the […]

ALBUM REVIEW: ROEDELIUS – ROEDELIUS PLAYS PIANO

SINGLE REVIEW: CHARLOTTE GAINSBOURG – ANNA

As the daughter of Serge Gainsbourg, Charlotte carries a lot of musical expectation on her shoulders. Having Beck by her side for her last album ‘IRM’ must’ve helped her along the way a little, his influence is still occasionally apparent and her vocal style could be likened to her breathy and deep sounding French father. […]
– THE RITZ, MANCHESTER – There’s been a flurry of excitement around Ren Harvieu on the radio. Touted as the Salford lass with the big voice, she’s getting plenty of attention with her new single ‘Through the Night.’ We get into The Ritz at 8, and as I’m trying to get 2 pints poured our […]

THE XFM New Music Award – 08/02/2012