Attack! Attack! – You And Me

Attack! Attack! have had a very successful year and have just completed their headlining UK tour. They look set to start 2009 in a good way, by releasing ‘You And Me’.

This radio friendly song has become a fan favourite at live shows, and is packed full of an exciting energy that draws you in, making you want to listen to the track over and over again. It’s a fun track that is easily accessible and is bound to make Attack! Attack!’s ever growing fanbase expand some more.

The bands’ sound is not unlike many of today’s successful American bands, but they have shown they have diversity as they have toured with the likes of Funeral For A Friend and The Blackout. Despite ‘You And Me’ having trademark aggressive lyrics as they "swear that no one is getting out of here alive," Attack! Attack! tap right into the same audience base and sound that gave newer bands like The Killers and Franz Ferdinand success with its throwback to the late '80s and early '90s build-up.

This is a fab little number and is a great way for the band to start 2009, good work lads!

Young Guns – In The Night

Young Guns are preparing to tour the UK with We Are The Ocean in January, and if that wasn’t enough, they’re also preparing to release their new single ‘In The Night’.

‘In The Night’ is the band’s debut single, it sees frontman Gustav reflecting on his party animal tendencies in an honest and earnest manner. As the singer explains, “In the Night is about the idea of being in love with night time, and more specifically - the more self destructive element of partying too hard. It’s about questioning why you do it, and how you can become someone or something you don't want to, but aren’t able to stop yourself.” Which gives us all something to think about, especially at this time of year.

This is a fab little number from the talented Buckinghamshire based band, and while they may be relatively unknown at the moment, I think that may soon be about to change.

Dorp – London Out There

Genre bending rockers Dorp are back with a new single, ‘London Out There’ taken from their album ‘Humans Being’.

‘London Out There’ grabs you by the ears and compels you to enter a land where techno fuses with funky rock, you can’t help but get sucked into this track. The three-minute little number carries itself frantically, it bleeps away through the speakers like there's no tomorrow. The three-piece hint at obvious frustrations behind being an underground act in a very vibrant city.

Originally from South Africa, Dorp have been busy making a nice little niche for themselves in the UK market for a few years now. They certainly have been working hard, playing plenty of shows and getting their music out to as many people as possible.

Impossibly hard to sit still to, Dorp have got their sound tuned to exactly how they want it, from beginning to end there’s not a questionable note to be heard. It’s just a hard hitting track which is full of pure enjoyment.

As I’ve said before Dorp are difficult to pigeonhole, a quality that is sought after by many bands, but rarely achieved, but these boys have done it, and from listening they appear to have done it easily. ‘London Out There’ sees intelligent lyrics teamed with intoxicating electro rock and it makes for an impressive combination. Not only do Dorp have something to say, they do a damn good job of saying it, keep up the good work boys!

My American Heart – There Are More Frightening Things…

Having completed their first headlining UK tour last month, My American Heart, attempt to imprint themselves in your memory even more with the release of their new single ‘ There Are More Frightening Things…’.

Once again the San Diego quintet cram in everything good about the pop-punk genre into their song, it's fast paced, catchy and about as complex as a Pot Noodle. My American Heart haven't hit the mainstream yet with any of their previous singles, but this song is much more addictive than their previous work.

The beauty of the track is its simplicity, opening with a conventional pop-rock sound, the song flows effortlessly with the ferociously addictive lyrics which mix well with the instrumental elements in the song. Towards the end of the three and a half minute single it does get a little repetitive, and it kind of sums up why My American Heart have lacked any huge success.

However, this song is radio friendly, and if there was a single that would help build their fanbase it is definitely this one.

From Monument To Mases – Beyond God & Elvis

Monument To Masses’ new track ‘Beyond God & Elvis’ is only available to those   living in Europe and it provides a taster of what’s to come on their upcoming album.

The track is mainly instrumental and the vocal quote near the end comes as a bit of a surprise, especially as it is very dark in comparison to the music. The guitars on the title track are joyful and playful, running around each other in an innocent manner. The band have created a great atmosphere on this track, and while it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I think most people will be able to appreciate their musicianship.

When I first saw the band’s name I half expected them to be tied into From Autumn To Ashes, a cover band perhaps, but I was pleasantly pleased when I discovered that they’re actually an instrumental post-rock band from San Francisco & New York. These guys are definitely interesting but I can’t imagine them having any mainstream success.

Six Feet Under – Death Rituals

Back in 1993 then-Cannibal Corpse vocalist Chris Barnes decided to put together a side project. Three years later he finally parted company with Cannibal Corpse, and Six Feet Under became his main priority. 15 years on we’re being hit by a new album ‘Death Rituals’.

Six Feet Under do not mess about. They're a death metal band to their roots and    are proud of it. It’s something that endears them to their fans, and which makes their records something to look forward to, and there is now doubt in my mind that their fans have been looking forward to their eighth original album (they’ve also released two cover albums).

Barnes is seen as one of the pioneers of the death metal growl, and he has no qualms about putting his voice well up in the mix, something that works particularly well on slower, groovier numbers like ‘Eulogy For The Undead’ and ‘Seed Of Filth’.

Six Feet Under haven’t taken any risks on ‘Death Rituals’, they haven’t laced it with sounds that would see them achieving commercial success, they have simply made the best death metal album they could and their fans will love them for it.

Iron Fire – To The Grave

Danish metal heads Iron Fire are back with their fourth album ‘To The Grave’.

The first thing that stuck me about ‘To The Grave’ was its old skool sound, it is full of melody which is something that seems to becoming more and more rare in the metal world. I, much like, Martin Steene, the brains behind Iron Fire am not shy to admit that I love this type of music, so I’m glad that he’ll continue to make it regardless of people's opinions.

There are plenty of songs on here where the band incorporate heavy guitars with incredibly catchy choruses. I don’t have a great knowledge of Iron Fire, but from what I have heard I would say that vocalist Steene has always had a great voice but in my opinion this is his best vocal performance. His voice is powerful and characteristic, a pleasure to listen to.

‘To The Grave’ is a great album, it will appeal to a wide range of people. It’s home to some fantastic riffs, and really showcases what talented musicians these guys are. Great work boys!

Rasmus Faber – Everything Is Alright

Swedish musician/DJ Rasmus Faber is hoping to win some success in the UK with his single ‘Everything Is Alright’.

‘Everything Is Alright’ is a lovely track, with strings sweeping in to mix with the ambient nature of the song, the vocals are sweet as sugar from the fragile sounding Linda Sundblad and to add further to it’s already shining status, the remix is also more than a little impressive.

‘Everything is Alright’ features an innovative mix of pianos and strings, the original single mix is decidedly more house than pop and so is unlikely to catch the imagination of the Christmas party dance floor dwellers.

While ‘Everything Is Alright’ is an impressive little number, and is bound to ensure Faber some success, I don’t think he will ever be able to get away from the fact that when you hear or see his name people automatically think of Finnish rockers The Rasmus, who stormed the charts a few years ago with ‘In The Shadows’.

I Am Ghost – Bone Garden

In a few weeks time I Am Ghost will be travelling around our fine shores on tour, and to whet your appetite they’re releasing a new single called ‘Bone Garden’.

‘Bone Garden’ has a good mix of sounds, it is although they have rolled all the sounds on their new album; ‘Those We Leave Behind’ into one track. The song mixes elements of metal, screamo and melodic harcore to great effect. It’s punchy and hard hitting without being over powering.

‘Bone Garden’ is powerful and raw, the performances are great in terms of both music and vocals. If you’re not familiar with I Am Ghost this is the perfect introduction to the talented young band.

The Chemists – Radio Booth

Indie kids The Chemist are back with a single called ‘Radio Booth’ which is lifted from their debut album.

The Bristol based lads have once again created a quirky little number which has the potential to hang around throughout the winter. The song is explosive and addictive, and is bound to get heavy rotation on the likes of MTV2.

The song is given a wider appeal by the remix that also feature on the single. It funky and will see the band reach a more dance orientated crowd. Another fab effort from an up and coming British talent.

Blackmarket – The Elephant In The Room

Lake Havasu’s rockers Blackmarket are planning to win over the UK by support The Subways and releasing their debut album ‘The Elephant In The Room’.

‘The Elephant In The Room’ starts well, it is very upbeat and instantly grabs your attention, opening track ‘Magic Tricks’ is fab, frontman Daryl Lamont’s vocals are mixed perfectly with pleasing yet somewhat unusual guitar sounds.

Considering this is a debut album it sounds incredibly accomplished, each song is different to the one before which really pulls you in and holds your attention.  The vocals are delivered with sincerity but also with a sense of vulnerability which just makes you want to listen really closely. ‘Shelia’ is a great number which has a lovely raw edge, which makes the lyrics seem even more touching. People are scared to give their album a human touch these days, but Blackmarket have done that and it really pays off.

‘The Elephant In The Room’ is a brilliant debut album from a hot new talent. Good work lads!

Born From Pain – Survival

Two years ago Born From Pain released an album called ‘War’ but plenty of things have changed for the band since then. Vocalist Che Snelting left the band, and bassist Rob Franssen took over the vocal duties. Andries Beckers joined the band as bassist, and Roy Moonen joined as drummer, so it would seem that ‘Survival’ is the perfect name for this release.

Despite all the changes, they Dutch band’s metalcore sound is still very much present and intact. The album keeps you on your toes as their sound changes from fast and heavy to mid tempo numbers, you seriously don’t know what to expect next. While Franssen has the main vocal, the choruses are made up of group vocals which gives then a nice, but more powerful edge.

There is plenty of frantic drumming and catchy guitar riffs to hold the attention of all listeners. This is a strong release from the Dutch heavyweights, and if this album is anything to go by, I think they’ll be surviving for a bit longer.

From Monument To Masses – Beyond God & Elvis

It’s been a while since we heard anything from San Francisco/New York’s From Monument To Masses but now the band are back with their new single ‘Beyond God & Elvis’.

This is a quiet yet sweeping mainly acoustic number, which travels along nicely and holds the listener’s attention thanks to the variety of sounds present. The band have mixed elements of indie, electronica and hip-hop to create something tender and beautiful.

‘Beyond God & Elvis’ is a nice little number, and it’s a track that not many artists could pull off, so From Monument To Masses should be proud of what they have achieved.

Opposite Worlds – Feel

As a recording artist there are far worse things that could happen than being compared to Maroon 5 and Artful Dodger like the boys from Opposite Worlds have been. The duo now release their new single ‘Feel’.

‘Feel’ is a quiet number that slowly grows into something bigger. I must admit from listening to this I can’t see the similarity between them and Maroon 5 or Artful Dodger, to me it is more like a track from a 90’s boyband.

The chorus shimmies away from the boyband sound slightly, there’s a bit more beat to it and it’s more like a watered down dance track. The vocals remain slow throughout the track, meaning when the music speeds up the vocal style no longer fits the song.

This is an unusual track, and from ‘Feel’ I honestly don’t think that many people will be latching onto Opposite Worlds, sorry boys!

Severenth – The Age Of Paranoia

Severenth hail from Wales, but they’re not the latest band to pop out of the south Wales music scene, oh no, these boys are from north Wales.

Despite only being around for five years the band have already had some notable career moments, such as sharing a stage with Ill Nino and Bring Me The Horizon. Now, the boys release their debut album ‘The Age Of Paranoia’.

The album doesn’t waste anytime in getting started, as soon as it starts playing you’re hit with a barrage of drums and guitars. Despite their Welsh roots there is a very American sound to Severenth, there is nothing on here to give away that they’re a British band.

All instruments are well played and the vocal performance is pretty impressive, but there is nothing on here to make the guys stand out from the ever growing hardcore/metal crowd. However, it is an impressive debut release and it shows that Severenth have plenty of potential and that they are very competent musicians.

Anberlin – New Surrender

Floridian favourites Anberlin are back with their new album ‘New Surrender’ and just like we have come to expect they mix rock sounds with catchy pop-punk hooks.

The band have moved to Island Records but the move to a major label does not mean they have “sold-out”. Sure, this album is probably their most accessible to date, but it is also very tuneful and filled with great musicianship.

Their songs are honest and heartfelt without being cheesy, and frontman Stephen Christian is able to be emotional without being soppy. There’s a real likeable quality to his voice, it’s not exactly raw but it is far from being over polished.

This is a great album, and Anberlin are definitely onto a winner with ‘New Surrender’. However, I think that most listeners will be surprised by the closing track ‘Miserabile Visu (Ex Malo Bonum)’, it has a strong use of keyboards that is very Coldplay-esque. It is a beautiful track which is bound to please fans, both old and new.

The Paddingtons – What’s The Point Of Anything New

Indie rockers The Paddingtons are back with their brand new single ‘What’s The Point In Anything New’.

This rhythmic but coarse blend of indie punk shows The Paddingtons in all their glory. Powerful guitars come bleeding out of the track and the vocals dance with the idea of being new wave. The band’s rough sharpness has been softened slightly by an American edge.

While it lacks originality, this little number has the sounds of a definite crowd pleaser stamped all over it. It is an honest but sceptical track which will appeal to a wide range of people.

Broken Records – Lies

Scot rockers Broken Records are one of the UK’s most hotly tipped bands, now they’re hoping to cause even more of a stir with their single ‘Lies’.

The seven piece have gone all out with this release and have crammed in a wide range of instruments, violins, pianos, drums, you’ll hear them all on here. Every time you listen to the track you’ll notice another instrument lurking within. Frontman Jamie’s vocals have a strong presence on the track, and are pitch perfect throughout.

This is Broken Records third single, and I bet they’re hoping it’s third time lucky with this track and that this will be their lucky break.

Sevendust – Hope And Sorrow

Atlanta based rockers Sevendust are back with their seventh album; ‘Hope And Sorrow’.

Opening track ‘Inside’ carefully gets the gears of ‘Hope and Sorrow‘ churning with a big, brooding introduction, which launches into punchy riffs and pummeling drums that are more graceful than they are catastrophic, and the guys have throw in a big chorus into the mix. ‘Inside’ is a bold statement and a great way to start the album.

The album contains a nice mix of sounds, no-one can say that Sevendust are afraid to venture outside a certain genre, and ‘Prodigal Son’ is the perfect example of this. It’s a throwback anthem singed ever-so-slightly with stoner rock grooves that stands out as one of Sevendust’s strongest singles in recent time. It’s heavy, tight and a features a Lajon Witherspoon vocal with a lot of soul. It is great way to show that Sevendust have switched gears from the rage-fuelled album, ‘Alpha’. This is the first time since 2001’s ‘Animosity’; Sevendust has employed guest musicians which is appropriate since the slightly experimental nature of the two albums. However, fans might be surprised to see that American Idol’s Chris Daughtry makes an appearance.

There are plenty of big choruses on here for fans to sing along to, and it won’t be long before they’re lodged in your head. There is no way you can resist their choruses but fans will be pleased to hear that the chorus in ‘Contradiction’ is not too far removed from the chorus in ‘Home’.

‘Hope And Sorrow’ is an ambitious album that shows off the bands many talents. Sevendust fans will love it, and I have the feeling that it will attract an army of new fans to the band. Good work lads.

MGMT – Kids

2008 has been a fab year for MGMT, they’ve had everyone raving about them and have won themselves an army of fans. That success is only going to continue as they release ‘Kids’.

The song is powered by keyboards and its sweet pop groove gives the song mass appeal, it’s guaranteed to get the kids dancing in clubs and at live shows. This electro-pop gem is laden with hooks, and is bound to be a sure fire hit, especially on the live circuit.

‘Kids’ is a catchy little number, it’s upbeat and fun and demands that you get up and dance, or jump around like a loony. There’s no doubt in my mind that this track will cheer you up on a gloomy winters day.

Jon Allen – Going Home

‘Going Home’ may sound familiar, and you may not be able to figure out how you know the song, so I’ll put you out of your misery – it was featured on the worldwide Land Rover TV advert.

The track is the debut single from the Devon based singer/songwriter, who can name Radio One’s Jo Whiley as a fan. There’s a feeling of nostalgia surrounding this song, you would be forgiven for thinking it was at least 30 years old.

While ‘Going Home’ is a nice, chilled out little number, it’s the accompanying track ‘Dead Man’s Suit’ that really stands out. It’s an up tempo piece of psychedelic tinged pop which reveals Allen's voice as a throaty growl, which is beautiful. The gravelly tone of his voice is much more appealing that the clean vocals he uses on ‘Going Home’. Personally, I think that Allen would have been better off releasing ‘Dead Man’s Suit’ as his debut single.

Ross Royce – Life Worth Living

Ross Royce hit the Australian and New Zealand music scene a couple of years ago and made an instant splash. Now the singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist is getting ready for the worldwide release of his debut album ‘Life Worth Living’.

Royce has the ability to change the direction of his music from track to track, without a single one sounding out of place.  ‘Life Worth Living’ has a retro vibe to it, there are songs on here that wouldn’t sound out of place on a Bowie record, the songs are tuneful and cheery, easily accessible and catchy.

‘Life Worth Living’ shows Royce to be an über talented young gent, his album is a joy to listen to and is really refreshing. From listening to this album it’s clear to see why Ross Royce has caused quite a stir on the other side of the world, and no doubt, he’ll cause quite a stir here once this album is heard.

In Case Of Fire – This Time We Stand

In Case Of Fire are currently on tour with Welsh emo giants Funeral For A Friend, but they’re also about to release their debut single ‘This Time We Stand’.

‘This Time We Stand’ is one of 2008’s most anticipated releases, the Irish youngsters have had everyone who is anyone singing their praises, and with the release of this single, things are only going to get better for the trio. This is a powerful song, and you’d be forgiven for thinking that there were more than three members in the band, as there are plenty of riffs to be heard.

Frontman Steven Robinson’s voice cannot be faulted, it’s crisp and clear. The big chorus is guaranteed to get stuck in your head, and it will have you singing along by the time the second chorus kicks in.

This is a fab single, and In Case Of Fire are bound to have a huge year ahead of them in 2009, I can’t wait to hear more from them, and luckily for me I don’t have long to wait as they are playing Portsmouth in a few weeks time.

Fightstar – The English Way

Fightstar are preparing to release their third studio album, but before we get to hear that the boys are releasing the first single to be lifted from it, ‘The English Way’.

This is probably Fightstar’s most pop orientated single to date, and it could sit happily on the playlists of major radio stations. ‘The English Way’ is easily accessible and has a big sing along chorus which is bound to see crowds screaming the words back at them at a live show.

‘The English Way’ also features the use of a choir, which gives the track an original edge. While ‘The English Way’ is likable, I don’t think it’s the band’s strongest single to date, and if I’m honest, I’m a little disappointed but I have faith in these four lads, and I’m sure I’ll be impressed with their upcoming album when I get to hear it. Nevertheless, this song is addictive and you will find yourself wanting to listen to it over and over again.

Manzana – Babies Of Revolution

Manzana are back with their second album ‘Babies Of Revolution’ and once again the Finnish four piece create infectious music that blends goth, rock, pop and grunge.

 ‘Babies Of Revolution’ will appeal to a wide variety of people, metalheads will love it, as will people that like their music on the lighter side. Manzana is Spanish for apple, apples can be describe as fresh, nutritious, raw, forbidden and delicious and those are five great words to describe Manzana’s music.

Manzana have proved themselves to be extremely talented, HIM better watch out or Manzana will be stealing their crown of being Finland’s biggest musical export of recent years. These four are definitely worth watching.

Enter Shikari – We Can Breath In Space, They Just Don’t Want Us To Escape

The boys from Enter Shikari are back with a reworked version of ‘We Can Breath In Space, They Just Don’t Want Us To Escape’ which is due to be released on November 3.

Enter Shikari seem to have said goodbye to synthesisers on this stand alone single, it will not appear on their second album, but somehow the track is still instantly recognisable as Enter Shikari.

I can’t say I’m a huge fan of Enter Shikari, in fact I would prefer not to listen to them, but I find ‘We Can Breath In Space, They Just Don’t Want Us To Escape’ bearable, perhaps even likeable, which makes me think that their fans may not be overly impressed with this little number.

Deathchain – Death Eternal

Finland’s heavyweights Deathchain are back with their fourth album ‘Death Eternal’.

The structure of the songs on ‘Death Eternal’ are pretty straight forward and easy to follow, which seems to give Deathchain’s music an aggressive touch. It allows you to hear every instrument, but for me, it’s the drum work that really stands out.

The album is very much influenced by death metal and has a dark edge, the songs are heavy, fast and thrashing, but at times they become very repetitive, which in turn leads to them becoming boring.

‘Death Eternal’ is not a bad album, Deathchain are evidently very talented musicians but they don’t do anything out of the ordinary. People that like their music hard and fast are bound to love this album, but personally, I don’t think there is anything original on here.

Alberta Cross – The Thief And The Heartbreaker

Alberta Cross are currently gearing up to hit the road with Oasis, but before that they’re re-releasing their debut EP ‘The Thief And The Heartbreaker’.

The songs on ‘The Thief And The Heartbreaker’ have a real sense of sincerity, they mix strong harmonies with sweet lyrics, to create a classic style that will never go out of fashion. The title track really sets the tone for this short and sweet album, as blues infused rhythm guitars and emotion filled vocals ring out.

Alberta Cross are by no means reinventing the wheel with this album, but they’re definitely putting their own twist on things. One thing that I love about this release is that it’s not over polished, and if you listen carefully you may even hear the odd bum note. ‘The Thief And The Heartbreaker’ is a pleasure to listen to, and I’m sure we’ll be hearing more from Alberta Cross.