Summer Flake – ‘On the River’ – mp3

Stephanie Crase’s first solo release and self-titled ep is ‘Summer Flake’. I’ve posted ‘On the River’ from this release, which you can download for free here. ‘The Summer Flake’ is a straight forward DIY (shudder at that term, but it’s accurate) recording of lo-fi indie rock tunes. So if your feeling like getting blue with some downer fuzz, this might be your bag. I’m rarely in that mood being that I left my angst in high school, despite what my mum says, but there is something catchy about this ep and it’s crept up on me a few times following Sui Zhen in my library. A real slow burner that is def worth a listen.

Facebook for Steph here – http://whothehell.net/hGA

Emma Louise – ‘Boy’

Listen up boy! If Emma Louise believes in you then best you pick yourself up, live up to your potential and stop disappointing this girl. OK. Good. Now that that’s outta the way, ‘Boy’ is the new single by Emma Louise. Another fine example of her incredible voice and intimate song writing ability. This is a rather restrained track that is as catchy as ‘Jungle’ but deploys more smokey vocals with subtle instrumental hooks and beats that compliment her melody. ‘Boy’ speaks of youth, love, hope and distance and will no doubt feature on a lot of winter soundtracks.

Emma Louise has also announced a string of East Coast tour dates – sure to sell out so check it fast – http://whothehell.net/TH4

Click here to view the embedded video.

Sui Zhen – ‘Cupboards and Sand’ Video Premiere

This ephemeral video was lovingly filmed and directed by Imogen Heath and Sam Icklow of NowMomentNow. Becky Freeman is the artist Sui Zhen and she studied with Imogen and Sam who have founded NMN, the Berlin based arts collective. Becky contributed with some of the drawings used in the animation and the live action was captured in Berlin at Teufelsberg, an abandoned spy tower. The shaky cam would surely upset David Stratton but I like the shots and the natural light plus the contrast of the green forest and ghetto look of the spy tower.

Her very sweet record ‘Two Seas’ is available now from suizhen.bandcamp.com/

‘This Thing’ launched a bunch of artist releases at the Phoenix Public House to a pumped up crowd of excited punters. A night of cool beats by a diverse group of producers floggin their wares and ripping up the house with five live sets. I caught four and they were very good.

Naps – http://whothehell.net/zVU

Crumbs – http://whothehell.net/X8l

Wooshie – http://whothehell.net/0at

Andras Fox – http://whothehell.net/66a

More pictures after the jump.

Wizard Oz – ‘Pull Out Slow’ mp3

Whilst Wizard Oz’s stuff is a bit hit and miss for me – especially the computer game sounds on the last ep, I don’t mind this one. Lo-Fi will only last so long in my playlist as it mostly starts to blend but there are a few stand out tracks in here and I recommend downloading the free ep ‘Flashing Lights’. There is a bit of an Ariel Pink vibe going on and it’s kinda sweet. The ‘tape’ version will be released on the 5th May (Yeah tapes? seriously what is going on… are kids gonna raid vinnies stores to find Sony Walkman’s and old foam covered headphones… probably, yes.) at The Grace Darling in Melbourne for a lazy $8. You’ll also get to see ‘Pop Singles‘ supporting.

Grab the digital ep here – http://whothehell.net/1QJ

World’s End Press – ‘Second Day Uptown’

Lighten your Monday with happiness delivered from Melbourne’s World’s End Press. Driven by their live jammin and disco party sound, W.E.P. have a dapper new single on digital release. Despite working on a new record for some time, it seems the boys aren’t ready to make any full length release dates just yet. I don’t think they’re playing hard to get, they just haven’t quite distilled their live sound into a recording yet. ‘Second Day Uptown’ represents what W.E.P. do very well and that is to get your ass dancing. It’s got that distinct bass groove and familiar vocal with a little gospel style, praise the lord keys that have you waving you hands in the air with smiley face joy. This is a tune to go out big on so enjoy lovers.

Check their Facebook for details about a physical release – http://whothehell.net/oEm

Underlights – ‘Remnants’ mp3

I would’ve posted the video for ‘Remnants’ but there is way too much smoking of cigarettes. Which is bad and you will die a painfully early death if you smoke. So don’t, OK. Anyho, this is some sweet alt country, 90’s British inspired lazy rock and roll. The stuff that young and old can band together and enjoy on the main stage at the BDO whilst you dance about singing the easy lyrics.

Check out the great photo coverage of current shows over here – http://whothehell.net/HEm

Jonathan Michell – ‘Mojave Night’ mp3

Another great release from Special Award Records. This one came out earlier this year and features ten instrumental tracks by Jonathan Michell of ‘The Ancients, Mum Smokes and Breaking The Law’. This one is a gorgeous listen and reminds me of the noodling guitar work of early ‘Explosions in the Sky’. There is not quite the vastness I would expect given the press shot but it’s a pretty sweet title track. Could be a good choice for your purchase this weekend on Intl. Record Store Day. Label details here – http://whothehell.net/Nx3artists/

Click here to view the embedded video.

Bitch Prefect – ‘Bad Decisions’.

A friend of mine was called a Stuck-up Prefect the other day, mostly cause she is pretty but they could’ve gone with Bitch Prefect, it would’ve been way cooler. ‘Bad Decisions’ has been kicking around the internet for a while but it now has a video. Directed by Scott O’hara and shot/edited by Pat Telfer, it will be the first Single off their upcoming record ‘Big Time’, released on Bedroom Suck Records according to the notes on vimeo.

Last night I went down to the Kings Cross Hotel for FBi social and caught Tigertown, Tin Sparrow and Founds – or more should I say, they caught me. Fanboy Alex is on the prowl, again…

Openers Tigertown were totally harmless, rolling out some of the smoothest indie-folk around. The seven piece bask in a couple of  indie cliches – mandolin, extraneous floor toms, pan-pipey keys – but executed them with class & aplomb.  At points I felt like I was floating in and out of an indie dream, nursed by these sweet, rolling tunes. Therein lies the fault of Tigertown – instead of occasionally challenging the audience, they stay firmly within a (albiet, very comfortable) formula. The set seemed to melt into itself at points and lacked discernable climax as a whole. While each song was a catchy piece of indie-folk sweetness, there was no release, and very little development of emotional tone.

Maybe I’m just afraid of things that are pretty, but I don’t want this to happen again. Watch the space, either way.

Tin Sparrow were up next. They’re one of Sydney’s best folk-acts and are really in their prime right now, playing an exceptionally tight, dynamically gorgeous set. Spinning in off the back of their latest EP (and tour), they delivered a whirlwind set. Their performance is laced with emotion and energy, pushing out a sound much bigger than the shape of the band. They also prove that, contrary to popuar belief, drummers can write AND sing songs, following Mark Piccles (the drummer) belting out an amazingly powerful track. Great band, great set.

Now to Founds. They were recently announced triple j unearthed winners of the Bigsound opening spot – and their set proved they deserve it. They’re unique in the Australian music scene, combining indie-folk with soaring Scando-ambiance and subtle post-rock, merging many styles into something unbelievably solid. In some ways, they remind me of Melbournians Alpine – but with balls, and a better drummer. That said, they resist classification so strongly that I’m loathe to compare them to anyone.

Combine all that mystery with a fantastic live show and you’ve got something special. Their opener was a brief and chaotic instrumental piece, really setting the “epic” tone that permeates their set. Their latest single, Holograms, is an absolute killer live – it’s not pop or folk or rock – it’s just a sparkling piece of music, absorbable no matter how you cut your cloth. There wasn’t a single track they played I didn’t love.

Founds are amazing for what they’ve done in such a short time. After twelve months together they’re producing and performing music that is unmatched – and perhaps unmatchable – in Australian music. I’d love to see what happens as they grow as a band and as performers. This is a space that I’m watching, so you should as well.

More photos after the break.

Tigertown on FB
Tin Sparrow on FB
Founds on FB and Tumblr

Click here to view the embedded video.

Charlie Mayfair are the indie-kids you bitch about in your corner of the local hipster tavern, cradling your broken egos over cider and tacos. They’re a reminder that you’ll never be quite as cool or as successful – or as beautiful and surprisingly charming. Unfortunately, they’re also genuinely gorgeous & fantastic musicians who are producing great tracks without fail.

This is the video clip for Tell Her, a song I covered earlier in the year. Director Jefferton James and cinematographer Byron Quandary have delivered a visual feast that compliments the emotional turmoil expressed in the song itself. While it dives into one or two cinematic cliches (e.g. the Sixth Sense dead but don’t know it standard) it’s precisely executed and lovely despite its (tiny) flaws.

I particularly love the moment in the picture below. Words cannot express the hipster poignancy that laces this moment. Plus that not-quite-shaggy-definitely-well-maintained facial hair is delightful to see in real life.

Check Tell Her out, and Charlie Mayfair as they tour near you in the nearest of futures.

P.S. I’m a fanboy, so what? You probably like The Living End and still live with your parents.

No Dice Paradise rolled into The OAF again last night. The monthly night has been pushing some absolutely fantastic music recently. It’s monthly, worth checking out. Last night brought Founds, Tank, Elizabeth Rose & Rockets together on a brilliant mixed-bill. All the artists are super independent & super fantastic, so you should check them out.

More after the break.

Founds put on one of the most intriguing shows I’ve ever seen, rolling between light & airy indie-folk & super-tight post-rock-esque stylings. They’re a young band with a lot on the horizon, an undeniable stage presence and a thick, gutsy sound. Six piece for the win. Tank is a solo-artist producing some of Sydney’s best ambient music. He’s been featured here before and is really causing a stir. His reverb-heavy tracks have a glorious level of lyrical & musical depth for ambient-electronica. Fantastic music. Elizabeth Rose is electronica as well, but rolling in all kinds of jazz-influenced awesome – particularly Throw Me To The Stars. Rose has a voice to die for and exactly the right amount of indie-charm. Rockets were, as usual, the epitome of Sydney’s indie-rock scene – with just a little more balls then the rest. Sadly, there’s nowhere on Oxford St. that sells camera batteries at midnight so most of Rockets went unshot.

Great night, great music.

Photos:
1. Tank
2. Founds
3. Jamie, Founds
4. Tank
5 & 6. Elizabeth Rose
7. Rockets

Tell Her by Charlie Mayfair

Queensland seems to be suffering from a relentless flood of fantastic music. Riding high on the wave are Charlie Mayfair, a folk-rock six piece based in Brisbane. They’re notorious for incredible live shows, filled with rolling drums, soaring multi-part harmonies and undeniable indie charm.

I heard Tell Her for the first time in a dingy alley in Brisbane after a gig. Someone threw me a rough mix and I’ve had it on loop ever since. It’s a track for dark days and harsh nights, filled with those pounding drums and heart breaking vocals. It’s a drug you can’t deny, filled with raw emotion and soul. It’s currently unreleased, but you’ll be able to get it right here in about a fortnight – and it’s so very worth the wait.

Charlie Mayfair are hopping around the country over the next few months, supporting Skipping Girl Vinegar & Emma Louise. They’re also joining Tin Sparrow for their EP launch tour – and all of that in the next month. Make the time to catch them live.

Charlie Mayfair on FB

Little Vegas and The Fuzz Parade – ‘Only Say It Once’

I guess it’s not inconceivable that some people might dismiss Brisbane’s Little Vegas and The Fuzz Parade as part of the cesspool of noughties retro rockers. Based on their name alone, I certainly used to.

Hokey name aside, their music is set apart from the fecal matter floating around in said cesspool by the vocal delivery of front woman Sabrina Lawrie. Equal parts Suzi Quatro, PJ Harvey and Janis Joplin, Lawrie’s slightly husky alto will keep you interested if the riffage behind her doesn’t.
This is no-bullshit garage rock that is sexy, a little scary and fun.

www.myspace.com/littlevegasandthefuzzparade

The Woods Themselves – ‘Groove Wind’ (mp3)

Sydney’s The Woods Themselves released their sophomore album, (C’Mon) Do The Beach Thing, earlier this year. Nestled toward the end of the tracklist is Groove Wind, a song that’s sparse in accompaniment but dense in atmosphere. It’s three minutes of dark pop bliss that washes over you in what feels like an instant due to its meditative feel.

An organic, percussive beat drives the song forward over lilting piano chords and splashes of minimalist guitar before shifting into an outro that chants the mantra, “this is not a scene/ we don’t exist.” It’s the kind of song that grabs you in a slow, subtle way – so that you don’t even realise until you’re pressing repeat for the fourth consecutive time.

A standout on what is a very solid release. For proof of their versatility, check out the rest of the album to hear a proficiency in warm, sunshine pop as well.

www.myspace.com/thewoodsthemselves

Little Scout - Dead Loss

Brisbane is a small town and if I had a dollar for every time someone told me “oh, you should check out my brother’s/boyfriend’s/workmate’s/housemate’s/neighbour’s band”, I might be close to paying off my HECS debt. So when a friend told me to check out their friend’s ex-house mate’s band Little Scout, I wasn’t expecting anything special.

However, Little Scout are something special. Mixing indie pop with folk and tinny Casio drum beats, their songs are sweet and devastatingly beautiful without being self-conscious or twee.

Debut single ”Dead Loss” has recieved Triple J airplay and the band has support slots lined up with Yves Klein Blue, The Holidays and Cloud Control over the next couple of months.

www.myspace.com/littlescoutmusic

The Hungry Kids of Hungary – ‘Set It Right’ (mp3)

Little more than a year old, Brisbane’s Hungry Kids of Hungary are winning hearts with their unique blend of soul, blues and sweet vocal harmony.

If The Shins had formed in London circa 1968, this is what they would have sounded like.

The Kids’ self-titled debut EP bounces from the sparkling pop of ‘Arrest This Heart’ to the loping swagger of ‘One By One’.  The highlight though is ‘Set It Right’ which leaps from from its bed of handclaps and electric strums transforming into a foot-stomping sing-a-long replete with falsetto chorus and shimmering keys.

www.myspace.com/hungrykidsofhungary

The Maple Trail – ‘New York’

I’m pretty excited to blog about The Maple Trail, the solo guise for Aidan Roberts, the Blue Mountains songsmith who’s more known for his work up the front of psych-indie troupe Belles Will Ring. Roberts has just released his debut record entitled Dirty Echo Spark, a beautifully well-worn piece of music that evokes images of 1960s Americana and pastoral folk in the vein of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young while simultaneously tipping its hat to recent players Grizzly Bear and Broken Social Scene.

‘New York’ is engaging without being overly complicated. It’s a simple, cyclical tune built around the mantra “here comes the winter pretty baby, let’s go to New York.” Which is kinda where I’d like to be, too. Dirty Echo Spark is replete with myriad instruments which create a luscious garden of textured, melodic music that you could easily wander through all day. A real gem of an album.

http://whothehell.net/m5

Charge Group – ‘Lullaby for the Apocalypse’

Only on a rare occasion does an album affect you so profoundly you’re spouting its credentials to all and sundry, including that crazy lady on the street who claims she’s a Nazi and should have “punched her fucking teeth out.”

Whoops, I digress.

What I’m trying to say is relatively simple: Charge Group’s debut record, Escaping Mankind, is brilliant. No two ways about it. From the ashes of the much-loved Newcastle outfit Purplene, Matt Blackman and co. have taken their time, slowly fashioning an album of 10 gorgeous tracks that hark back to the guitar rock of ’90s indie music, evoking images of Swervedriver, June of 44, Sonic Youth in their mellower moments and Fugazi. The inclusion of Jason Tampake on violin – who plays in the wonderful Firekites – lends the music a distinct colonial feel, which fits somewhere between The Drones’ instinctively Australian poetic incantations and The Dirty Three’s brooding indie-noir.

It’s refreshing to hear such an anachronistic sound, reminiscent of days when Something for Kate was releasing albums like Beautiful Sharks and How Machines Work was one of the most exciting bands on the Australian musical landscape.

Even though CERN’s Large Hadron Collider particle accelerator didn’t eviscerate the world yesterday, ‘Lullaby for the Apocalypse’ still feels like a fitting choice.

If you’re in a reading mood, one of my favourite local music writers, Emmy Hennings, wrote a fantastic piece on Charge Group for Mess + Noise entitled ‘A Process In The Weather of the Heart’. (Where the hell did she get that title from??) Read it here.

http://whothehell.net/sz

Click here to view the embedded video.

The E.L.F. – a.k.a Darren Cross – has been evoking the DIY spectre of the electro-indie zeitgeist ever since he dropped his lo-fi debut release Stevie Nicks Hearts last year. The filmclip for the disc’s first single, ‘Cockroaches’, was made for a measly throwaway ten bucks.

Now The E.L.F. is set to launch the follow-up to Stevie Nicks Hearts, and ‘Bounce Bounce Bounce’ is the first taste of the new material. And this filmclip was made for nothing. Nada. Zilch. Intimating rave nights with the help of garish sirens, cowbell, a skull-thumping beat and synths galore, ‘Bounce Bounce Bounce’ is pure hedonistic dance floor fodder. Cross overtly announces his intentions: “If you’re not gonna dance I’m gonna go home.”

“More DIY spirit than Thurston Moore on a shopping spree in Kmart,” is how The E.L.F. describes this one.

Indeed.

http://whothehell.net/78K