Named after the debut single by Teenage Fanclub.
This blog is all about being a music lover in Glasgow; reviews, interviews, memories, old faves, new discoveries (past and present), playlists and more. Thanks for visiting - I hope you discover something amazing you have never heard before, or that you rediscover an old favourite.
Regular features/playlists; Never Ending Mixtape / Cover Version of the Month/ Trust Me.
Insta - @everythingflowsglasgow
E - murrayeaston{AT}gmail{DOT}com
The start of October will see two increasingly important events in the Glasgow/Scottish music calendar take place. Both highlight the incredible talent and diversity of the Scottish indie/DIY/laternative music scene, both have been born from grassroots entrepreneurial spirit and both have been warmly embraced by music fans.
Saturday 3rd October will see The Tenement Trail take place in Glasgow - using venues on or around Sauchiehall Street - Broadcast, Flat 0/1, Nice 'n' Sleazys, ABC2, the Art School and King Tut's will feature a whole hosts of bands and artists that include the likes of White, Neon Waltz and Atom Tree who all featured in my recent blog HERE
The urban festival starts at 2pm and lasts (at least in some venues) all the way through until 3am. Tickets are only £15, available in advance from the website or Tickets Scotland, or you should be able to pick up some on the day if you are quick.
Tenement Trail is the brainchild of the team behind the brilliant Tenement TV which, like the festival, grows from strength to strength with every year.
Here is the line-up and times.
Then next Thursday 8th October it is time to get a little glitzy with the 6th year of the Scottish Alternative Music Awards (the SAMA's), taking place at The Garage.
Richy Muirhead is the bright young spark behind the awards and has grown the event into a highlight of the Scottish Music calendar, gathering increasing support and exposure.
Voting for this years awards has closed and over 20,000 votes have been cast - fantastic stuff.
The amazing Crash Club are playing live, along with special guest performances from previous winners and Holy Esque who have been on the verge of breaking through for a few years.
Richy said; "The shortlist is extremely strong this year, with nominees from every corner of Scotland. There is a huge surge in nominations for new bands which goes to show that Scotland is forever churning out new and exciting talent. It's our sixth birthday, so we've got a few surprises and crowd-pleasers up our sleeves."
The nominees for 2015 are;
BEST ROCK/ALTERNATIVE sponsored by EmuBands
Monogram Wecamefromwolves Catholic Action Dear John SchnarffSchnarff Huxtable
BEST NEWCOMER sponsored by UWS Creative MARTHA FFION WHITE BAER MAN OF MOON ALPHAS BELLA & THE BEAR LIONEL
BEST HIP HOP sponsored by Splitter Scotland
MOG Delighted Peoples DJ YEMSTER & HEXTASY THE ILL COLLECTIVE BIGG TAJ & SPEESIXNINE SPRING BREAK
The Scottish music scene is in a particularly rich vein of form right now with 4 young artists signing deals with major labels since the turn of the year and many more turning heads and gathering attention.
Here is a quick run down on the 4 acts that have been snapped up, it will be interesting to see how they develop and if the labels allow them time to do just that;
Neon Waltz, a young band hailing from Wick, captured the attention of many by seemingly coming out of nowhere with their home made demos, covers and videos, signing with the same management company as Oasis and then subsequently to Atlantic Records. Their young front man has something about him and the band gel superbly. They are still very much in their infancy but 2016 could be a big year for them.
I caught them live at Wickerman recently and they had a few stand out songs as well as many more that sound promising; they look good, the frontman stands out a mile and demands attention, their duelling guitars create a brilliant sound and they really do gel superbly.
Fatherson went about things the complete opposite way from Neon Waltz - working hard, playing loads of shows, self releasing and building a bigger and bigger following. Their young manager Michael Lambert teamed up with Idlewild's manager Bruce Craigie to form A Modern Way - a management company and record label; very handy and indeed - very modern. Fatherson's I Am An Island that they released in 2014 only increased the interest in the band leading to an incredible performance at T in the Park where they packed out the King Tut's tent (see video below). Their hard work has paid off and they recently signed with Easy Life Record, an offshoot of Sony.
Singer Ross Leighton is in this for the long haul and I have heard many people compare them to Biffy Clyro; not just for their Ayrshire roots but for their growing sound, reputation and fanbase - they could be building to something pretty special and now they have the backing to do it.
White burst on to the scene last year and my friend Gordon alerted me to their fantastic song Living Fiction. The song mixed Franz Ferdinand with LCD Soundsystem and all kinds of 70's and 80's pop, funk and disco. It sounded fresh, vital and fun.
Another friend Sam told me that they had labels coming up to see them rehearse - there was a buzz. White have now signed with Sony and released a second single Blush which shows more signs of promise and the band are attracting more and more interest through the media and radio, things are building up nicely. From a personal point of view, the drummer Kirstin is absolutely lovely and I am delighted for her that things are going so well.
Model Aeroplanes are a young band from Dundee that have been attracting interest since they formed in their teens (some of them may well still be in their teens). I first saw them live supporting Vigo Thieves back in late 2013 and really liked the look and sound of them - playing cracking guitars, looking too young to be in the venue and having an ear for a pop tune. I was also very impressed with their musical talent - these boys can play, just check out the variety of their live and acoustic sessions on YouTube for evidence.
The band have been working extremely hard since then under the guidance of their lovely manager Paul who has been working his socks off for them. As someone who managed bands I always root for a good young manager and I am absolutely delighted that Paul's work and the bands talent has landed them a deal with Island Records.
The hard work continues - this good looking young bunch of lads who can really play could take off in a big way if they get a hit single. Best of luck to them.
It is fantastic to see labels venturing north of the border for talent - there is plenty of it and I wouldn't bet against other acts being snapped up in the near future. Here are just a few that might also get a major label deal;
Man of Moon could well be described as the buzz band in Scotland at the moment. A young 2-piece from Edinburgh, they have been working hard under the guidance of a lovely guy called Jamie Webster and recently released their debut single on indie Melodic Records to rave review. Festivals and sold out shows have added to the buzz. Watch them go.
Kloe is a young teenager from the outskirts of Glasgow creating a real buzz. I thoroughly enjoyed her set at Wickerman; the way she strutted around the stage, fell to her knees, posed for the cameras and treated us to a display of modern pop written by a teenager for teenagers. Word on the street is that a new EP will be coming out before the end of the year. if it generates anything like the response of her debut single then she may well get snapped up. Young, ambitious and talented. Definitely one to watch.
Vigo Thieves have been working hard on writing and recording and I have been fortunate enough to hear some exceptional new songs. These boys are going for it big style and I sincerely hope they get the deal they deserve. Stevie Jukes is a star in the making, he has the look, voice, soul and songs to go all the way.
Other acts to keep an eye on that should certainly attract label attention (perhaps not a major) include; Catholic Action, TeenCanteen, The Insomniac Project , Atom Tree and Crash Club. Oh and if Gerry Cinnamon's forthcoming self released debut does well then he may well get snapped up too - that is if a label doesn't come in before he released it himself.
There are bands and acts all over, DIY labels and nights, blogs, podcasts, radio shows, venues, nights - and it is all exceptionally accessible in the modern day and age. Scotland continues to punch above its weight - producing an incredible amount of fantastic bands and artists for a country with such a small population.
The line-up for the 2015 Wickerman Festival is their strongest to date while remaining typically eclectic; offering a fantastic mix of new and up and coming music alongside established and legendary artists.
Synergy Concerts have taken over the booking of acts for the festival and they have brought in some of their favourites and used their experience to bring in some acts that could and should make Wickerman 2015 the best yet. If only they could book the sunshine!
Who am I looking forward to?...
In no particular order, here are 20 acts that I am hoping to catch over the course of the weekend...
Of course there is much, much more on offer and part of the joy of Wickerman is just wandering around the beautiful site and taking in a melting pot of everything.
Stereo MC's
Stereo MC's at the Barrowland Ballroom back in 2002-ish was an incredible show. Over 10-years down the line Stereo MC's live shows still have a reputation for being high energy; with singer Rob Birch bounding all over the stage and getting the crowd on his side with ease.
The 1992 album Connected spawned massive singles including the title track, Step It Up and Ground Level. An early evening slot in the sunshine would be a perfect time for this band. Funk, pop, dance and soul.
Sugarhill Gang
I caught the Sugarhill Gang at King Tut's last summer. Rappers Delight will be one of the songs of the festival and the summer. Look out for loads of people trying to rap along.
Lulu
Lulu is sure to get the party started. Shout is going to be a massive Wickerman hit with the audience bellowing along. Little known fact - Lulu has also written some monster hits including Tina Turner's I Don't Wanna Fight so expect her band to play some of these songs and some choice covers - Lulu released a cover of Bowie's Man Who Sold The World back in the day.
Squeeze Up The Junction is a guitar pop fave of mine, it is pure pop perfection and the thought of singing a-long to it at Wickerman is a good one. Squeeze have much more than that in their arsenal though and I expect them to be a real festival favourite and gain many new fans.
Neneh Cherry Buffalo Stance at a sunny Wickerman - oh please, please, please. Neneh Cherry's show at SWG3 received outstanding reviews, as did her last album. The lyrca and shell suits may be gone but Neneh will bring a set of sassy funk, jazz, pop and soul to Wickerman. Sure to be a hit. Check this extended re-editversion of Buffalo Stance
Julian Cope
The legendary Julian Cope is a must see for me. Pop hits like World Shut Your Mouth and Trampolene will hopefully feature alongside some material from The Teardrop Explodes and surely Out Of My Mind On Dope On Speed will be a festival anthem for many
Jimmy Cliff
I can't wait to see this genuine legend live and to hear his stunning voice on hits like Many Rivers To Cross, The Harder They Come, Wonderful World Beautiful People and You Can Get It If You Really Want. Sunshine reggae vibes will be perfect for Wickerman.
The Waterboys
I saw the crescent, you saw the whole of the moon
What a song! It flows, rises, soars and keeps on going. Expect people to be dancing around and punching the air with glee when The Waterboys drop this. It is their defining moment and rightly so - not many artists write something as good. Mike Scott and co will astound with their tight musicianship and songs from throughout their career with may lifted from the Fisherman's Blues album.
Tal National
Brian Reynolds who is one of the bookers for Wickerman 2015 has mentioned this band a few times on his Facebook page. He then tweeted me to make sure I checked them out ahead of the festival. I can understand why.
One of the great things about Wickerman is that it will give bands a chance and literally a platform. Tal National's jazzy african rhythms could steal the show - expect quite a performance if their videos are anything to go by. Embrace it.
BMX Bandits
Bellshill legends the BMX Bandits have just been announced as the first headliners for the new Phoenix Tent. Their warm guitar pop is sure to be a festival favourite. Serious Drugs is their most famous song, but look out for some stunning songs from recent albums and I hope they also play songs like Little Hands. I know I'll be going to see them and if you haven't then you should try to pop in.
The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart
A rush of indie guitar pop always warms my heart and this band are masters at that. Catchy, fuzzy, fun, melodic and pure - I look forward to seeing them play songs like Heart In Your Heartbreak.
Kathryn Jospeh
The winner of the 4th annual SAY Awards with her stunning debut album Bones You Have Thrown Me And Blood I Have Spilled. Check the gorgeous live version of Bones below. Kathryn's music and reputation is growing by the week, making this a perfect booking for Wickerman - an artist on the rise.
Miaoux Miaoux
Electronic pop pushed as far as possible. Miaoux Miaoux are capable of sublime moments and also downright dirty dance stuff like Hey Sound! Stop the Clocks is one of my all time favourite songs and It's The Quick off their new album could be your favourite of the festival.
Catholic Action
Are another new band I intend to make the time to see at Wickerman. Their upbeat punky guitar pop is winning them lots of fans. Check L.U.V for evidence of what to expect - could be a real highlight if they have a set of songs like this.
The Sonics
Legendary garage band The Sonics have some incredible songs and their guitar sound is one that many look to for inspiration with James Murphy from LCD Soundsystem being a real fan of their raw punk edge. Have Love Will Travel is a garage classic.
Errors
Errors are on the rise and made the shortlist for the SAY Award this year with their latest album Lease Of Life. Their expansive, spacey, electronic vibes and soundscapes will gain them new fans at Wickerman.
Ela Orleans
Stephen Pastel has been on about Ela Orleans for ages, converting Tim Burgess among others to the beautiful leftfield electronic pop that the Polish artist (now residing in Glasgow) is capable of creating. Listen to The Sky And The Ghost below for starters and imagine this at Wickerman.
Withered Hand
Withered Hand is gaining fans with every release and performance. He blew me away with a solo show in tiny Bowlers Bar last summer. Dan Willson has an incredible ear for melody and his lullaby voice is a joy to listen to.
Tuff Love
Tuff Love are picking up fans as they go about their busy touring schedule; supports with Ride and an assortment of festivals added on to their own gigs over the last year or so have turned this fuzzy scuzzy indie guitar act into one that is road ready and set to win you over. They were in brilliant form at the SAY Award ceremony and i look forward to seeing them at Wickerman.
Neon Waltz
I have yet to catch Neon Waltz live and fully intend to do so at Wickerman. The band hail from Wick in the Highlands and the fact that they are so removed from any 'scenes' has stood them in good stead as they remain true to their own style and tastes. Definitely ones to watch over the next year or so.
Record Store Day started back in 2007 when 700 independent American record stores decided to come together to celebrate their unique culture. The UK quickly followed and 2015 is the 8th year of Record Store Day in the UK.
I've visited some fantastic record stores around the world on my travels; UK favourites would be Glasgow's own Monorail and Manchester's Piccadilly Records. My sister also took me to an incredible shop in Edinburgh called Backbeat Records that is proper old school, perfect for crate digging - packed to the rafters with all kinds of incredible stuff. You might not be able to find what you are looking for - but ask the owner and he'll know what nook, cranny or box to look in. You'll definitely find something!
Internationally I have been in some sensational stores in New York City, Lucky Records in Rejkjavik, some crackers in Australia - especially one in Freemantle and some beauties in Argentina where you literally had to dust the records down.
Backbeat Records in Edinburgh
Of course many independent record stores have closed down - I spent many happy hours as a teenager trawling round Browser's in Lanark and Impulse Records in Motherwell and Hamilton. All now sadly closed. Unknown Pleasures in St Andrews was also an old favourite.
The main aim of Record Store Day is to shine a spotlight on independent record stores and on vinyl. In some ways it seems to be working; vinyl sales continue to increase year on year. Stores were closing at a worryingly fast rate, however that seems to have slowed and almost stalled.
Missing Records in Glasgow is still around. Back in the 1990's, when it was around the corner from its current location and then in Wellington Street, it was a store largely responsible for a huge amount of my record collection. I must have visited Missing 2 or 3 times a week for a number of years; buying new releases, discovering old music and raiding the second hand section with every spare few pounds I had.
I remember, as a teenager still at school, pondering over whether to buy Goldmine by James or Out Of Time by REM as I could only afford one (I chose James).
I remember running from work at 5pm down to Missing to spend 15 or 20-minutes browsing before catching the train back to Carluke.
I remember raiding Tower Records closing down sale and getting 4 copies of the Nirvana/Jesus Lizard split 7-inch and trading 2 of them for Teenage Fanclub's debut 7-inch Everything Flows from Missing Records - the song that this blog is named after.
I remember the smell of the vinyl, the protective sleeves, the classic Missing bag and I remember buying some fantastic records - sometimes because I was searching for them, sometimes cause I liked the look of the sleeve, or maybe I had read something about that album/single, or maybe the staff were playing something I liked the sound of - like Stereolab.
Segundo by Juana Molina - an album I bought because of the sleeve (music good too!)
Bit less risky than Juana Molina - but another album I bought due to the sleeve
Missing was important. It was (and is) incredibly near Central Station, yet it was just out of the way enough to be different, to be the kind of place you had to know about. No-one really stumbled across anything down that part of the city. It's kind of like the bit in High Fidelity when Rob is describing his store - just right!
The classic 'I will now sell 5 copies of the Three EP's by the Beta Band' scene
Mixed Up Records in Otago Lane was a favourite of mine for a number of years when I had my flat in Dennistoun. The kind of record shop I could never walk into and come away empty handed.
Oxfam Music in Byres Road is another fantastic store in Glasgow that I still visit when I am up the West End. I got to know the manager Andrew when I volunteered for Oxfam and I remember being amazed when he took me down to the basement to show me all the stuff they were sifting through to decide what to sell, what was worth a bit and what was worthless. They had some incredible stuff and I made a mental note that it would be a great setting for a band photo/sleeve and later took Sonny Marvello there when I started managing them. One of my all-time great second hand buys was the white 12-inch of Rez by Underworld for £6.99 in Oxfam Music. I think I was so pleased that I gave them a tenner - obviously pre kids when I had some spare money!
Sonny Marvello photo shoot in the Oxfam Music basement
FOPP has also played a vital role in my musical education and in stocking my record and CD collection. The original store in Byres Road is still magical; a cool location, rammed with all kinds of brilliant music and many of it at fantastic prices.
Love Music (formerly Avalanche Records) around the corner from Queen Street Station was a favourite of mine when I stayed in Dennistoun. Very handy on a walk home if the sun was shining or if I was in the mood. It is still going strong and is very active in promoting Scottish independent and DIY music.
Monorail is my favourite these days. There is something soothing about walking in and seeing Dep who worked in Missing Records all those years ago when I was first buying records in Glasgow. And the fact that Stephen from The Pastels might be working behind the counter is still a bit of a thrill to the indie kid in me (and I'm sure I am not the only one!).
The conversation in Monorail is great. I love wandering in (usually on a Monday before 5-a-sides if I have time and money) and checking out the music being played and listening to what the staff are talking about - International Airport, Vic Goddard, Edwyn Collins, how well the new Mogwai release is doing...
The staff in Monorail are always happy to help. I remember going in after reading an article in Uncut about a brilliant rereleased album of guitar pop. I couldn't remember the band name or album though! With a bit of questioning Stephen managed to decipher that it was East Village and their Drop Out album!
Monorail Records - right place, right vibe, right staff - just so right
I started this blog without a real purpose, I really just wanted to reminisce about my enjoyment of record stores. I've had hundreds (if not thousands) of Record Store Days through my life; I've gone on my own, with my wife, with my eldest daughter, with friends....I've gone in knowing what I wanted, I've gone out after spending a lot more than I intended!
Any day could be a record store day for me and for you. This Saturday I'll be heading into Monorail with my friend Dave for a few beers, some music and some records. You can't get a much better day than that really....
I bought some cracking new albums in January - but one in particular really stood out. Matador by Gaz Coombes. I never expected to be buying an album from Gaz Coombes in 2015 but I was blown away when I heard lead single 20/20 on 6 Music. The album features inventive Radiohead/Massive Attack style riffs, songs that swoop and soar, huge choruses, stunning production, arrangements and vocals. The cover and the song The Girl Who Fell To Earth tip more than a nod to Bowie.
I wasn't the only one to fall for Matador. My good friend Craig from the band Flash Talk was also on to it and he asked if he could write a guest blog on it. So here it is...
Guest blog by Craig Douglas
The fucking 90's!!
A time of endless possibility.
A time before smart phones.
A time when you had to wear shirts ten times too big for you because they didn't make cool clothes for teenagers.
A time when the NME seemed to bring news of a new music revolution weekly.
A time for hero's: Blur, Oasis, Nirvana, Radiohead
A time for pure shite: Northen Uproar, Kula Shaker and fucking Menswear!
And a time for Supergrass. Supergrass where right up my street. They where young, free they kept their teeth nice and clean and they produced some truly great pop singles over a period of 17 years:
Alright , Moving, Pumping on your Stereo, Richard III.. all classics and there is a lot more where that came from...Just like Queen or the Who though, their greatest hits collection is far superior to any of the albums they have produced.
When they split in 2010 I thought we'd sadly seen the last of one of Britain's most naturally talented frontmen and after hearing his first solo album Here comes the Bombs in 2012 which was decent at best (White Noise was a highlight), I was of the opinion that we wouldn't ever hear a great album from Gaz Coombes.
With Matador, his second solo album, Gaz Coombes has (I'm a big enough boy to admit this) proved me wrong. Opening track Buffalo switches from sparse piano led verse to a menacing chorus filled with yearning lyrics, ethereal backing vocals and thunderous drums. A compelling start which leads into one of the albums (and the artist's) highlights, 20/20 is an epic piece of songwriting with a truly soulful vocal and a melody that Brian Wilson's dad would give him a slap for.. a total journey of a record with the perfect mix of light and shade.
The English Ruse repetitive riff and rhythm is irresistible with sci-fi lyrics, a middle section out of nowhere filled with angelic voices and a guitar solo that sounds as if it's being played by a Martian in a K-HOLE! It's the audio equivalent of inter dimensional travel.
Next up is The Girl Who Fell To Earth... What a title! How has no one come up with that before?! My first reaction was "You bastard" but it's hard to stay mad at him once you hear this song.
First you cry and then you laugh, you're like a circle cut in half
A truly beautiful three and a half minute pop song that Ray Davies or McCartney would have been proud of.
Track 5 in my opinion should always be a belter, it's a hallowed position on any album and Mr Coombes clearly agrees. Detroit has a scuzzy swagger to it, a sort of lackadaisical menace that is intoxicating. There is a moment at the end of this track after a brief respite of the beat where Gary says "OK" and the beat kicks back in....For some reason this really floats my fucking boat and I find myself pressing repeat to listen to this wee magic moment over and over again.
As you may have gleaned.. I love this album with a passion which has been reserved for 'Arcade Fire' of late. You could put the first 5 songs on this album up against the first 5 songs of all the LP's in Q fucking magazines(monthly) 100 GREATEST ALBUMS OF ALL TIME, they would stand proudly next to the best of them and tower above the majority.
The rest of the album is just as strong but I'm not going to sit here and describe the whole fucking thing to you.. I will say that the penultimate track To the Wire is seismic and the closing lyric of the title track shows a man who has faced adversity and has maintained a pleasant fuck you attitude.
I'll take all the pain and the scars of war,
cause I've faced the beast and fight like a matador
With Matador it becomes apparent that Gaz Coombes is not only a great songwriter that should be cherished far beyond that Troll like,garbage pail kid Ed Sheeran but also a tremendous singer whose voice is the main instrument throughout this wonderful Album.
In my books Gaz can take his seat along side Damon Albarn and Thom Yorke as the only artistically relevant survivors of the last great musically creative period in rock and roll history. A time when men wore Wallabees. A time before internet porn. A time....
It is under an hour since Van Morrison left the stage at Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall, leaving his band to jam on for a good 5-10 minutes. He's not one for chit chat between songs, or even allowing time for applause between songs, and he left the stage twice whilst still singing, but Van the Man led his band through an incredible performance tonight.
Van Morrison was playing as part of Celtic Connections 2015 and I have my brother to thank for buying me a ticket for tonight. I was excited yet nervous ahead of the show, not knowing what he would play and also having heard rumours about him being a tad grumpy at times.
I needn't have worried, I'm still under the spell he magically wove tonight. It was a truly majestic performance - vocally and musically.
Our seats were high, only a few from the back, centre stage and we captured the beautiful Concert Hall acoustics in all their glory.
Van's band took to the stage all dressed in black - guitar, bass/double bass, drums, piano/organ/keys/trumpet and a backing singer. They launched into an instrumental jazz number and then on strode Van Morrison to jam along on saxophone. They were in sensational form from the off.
Dropping in an Please Don't Go early on, which led into Parchman and Don't Stop was a wise move, the audience seemed spellbound at the vocal delivery and the tightness of the band. Van was on his mouth organ at this point and he also played guitar at times.
Dressed in black, with hat and shades, there was no doubt who was the boss as Van conducted and instructed the band through the performance - letting them to know when to up the pace, bring it down, extend the jam, even change instruments or to bring it to a close.
This led to a stunning run of songs with the band playing beautiful dreamy music at times, allowing Van Morrison to sing his poetic love songs over the top. Moondance was gorgeous, Sometimes We Cry was packed with soul, In The Garden was quite simply breathtaking as the lights dimmed and Van brought the music right down before letting rip with his vocals and the band came crashing back in.
Ending with the beautiful Into the Mystic and Ballerina, Van Morrison walked slowly off the stage whilst still singing to rapturous applause, leaving the band to jam on and take turns in the spotlight before a note was handed to the organ/piano player telling him to bring things to a close.
I've seen many legends grace stages in Glasgow in my 21-years of gig-going but tonight was possibly the best of the lot, certainly the best I have seen in a long, long time. Van Morrison's voice was effortless from the off - gentle when required, soaring and soulful throughout, his backing band were just exceptional - capable of reacting to his needs and producing moments of truly beautiful and dreamy music that you could get lost in.
There is always loads to look forward to in the Scottish music scene - new material and shows from established Scottish acts, new acts breaking through and all kinds of bands and artists dropping by to play shows and festivals....oh and what is pretty much officially 'the best audience in the world.' 1. Teenage Fanclub - new album and extensive touring
As this blog is named after their debut single I'll start with news that the new Teenage Fanclub album will be dropping in time for summer with Norman Blake adding that they are planning 'extensive touring'. Their summer show in 2014 at the Kelvingrove Bandstand was utterly magical and I hope they grace some outdoor stages in 2015. A Barrowland show would be nice too!
2. Belle and Sebastian - new album and the Hydro Belle and Sebastian's new album Girls In Peacetime Want To Dance (their ninth) is due out later this month (look out for a review on a future blog) and they have a huge show planned for the Hydro in May - complete with the Scottish Festival Orchestra.
3. White at the Poetry Club
I heard about White via the series of guest end of year review blogs I ran at the end of 2014. Gordon from Vigo Thieves turned me on to their song Living Fiction. The funky disco like guitars and Talking Heads style vocals got me interested immediately.
I then heard through the grapevine that labels have been flying up to watch them rehearse in Glasgow. Expect their gigs at the Poetry Club to feature a few scouts up to check them out. They could be the hottest shows in town since Chvrches played their debut show at the Art School.
Sadly, the shows sold out instantly. Give me a shout if you hear of a ticket going!
4. King Tut's Wah Wah Hut turns 25 King Tut's has already announced a series of shows to celebrate them turning 25 - The Cribs and The Courteneers both play in February and are the biggest to date. Look out for some more shows through the year once other acts finalise their touring schedules.
Any spare dates around Noel Gallagher playing the Hydro?....
5. T in the Park moves to a new site
The move has been well publicised and I expect loads of details to be announced next month - but T in the Park is moving from Balado to Strathallan Castle, also in Perthshire and a mere 1 hour away from both Glasgow and Edinburgh. I expect they will want to make a real statement, so I'm anticipating some big names when the line up is announced.
6. The SAY Award The SAY Award has been a very welcome addition to the Scottish music scene, creating exposure, debate and reward. It would appear to be a very open playing field and a winner could come from heavyweights like Mogwai or from someone like Fatherson or Beerjacket. Young Fathers could well come back to the double after winning in 2014. Twin Atlantic and The Twilight Sad should certainly make the long list.
7. Kelvingrove Bandstand shows?
What a fantastic venue. If we get another glorious (well most of the time) summer then I really hope their are some shows booked in for the Bandstand. Nothing has been announced to date though.
8. Huge stadium shows
The Foo Fighters and AC/DC are bringing their mighty riffs to Scotland this summer. I wouldn't bet against some more massive shows being arranged for stadiums or Bellahouston Park which has hosted shows by the likes of The Killers and Kings Of Leon over the last couple of summers.
9. 15 unsigned/DIY bands to look out for Vigo Thieves and Fatherson have been on the verge of breaking through for a while, gaining excellent reviews and exposure and headlining huge shows of their own at the ABC in Glasgow. Will a label come in and give them that leg boost to the next level?
Vigo Thieves certainly have the anthems that deserve a shot at the big time. Fatherson's devoted fan base is reminding a lot of people of the love Biffy Clyro inspired as they were going up and their album has given them a real platform to build upon. La Fontaines are not really my own personal cup of tea (although I think the drummer is funny and cool) but they have also headlined the ABC and are doing well, with a new single due in April.
side stage view from Vigo Thieves at the ABC
Model Aeroplanes are a group of teenagers from Dundee who are going from strength to strength; getting seen in all the right places, playing festivals and earning great support slots. With a trip to SXSW sorted for March, who knows what will happen.
Other acts that seem to be getting good reviews just now include Jim Valentine,Neon Waltz (who have signed with the Oasis management team)and I am personally very fond of the electronic soundscapes of Atom Tree and the pure pop of TeenCanteen, both of whom will at the very least be releasing singles or EP's in 2015.
TeenCanteen - melodies, hooks and harmonies to die for
Kloe is a young 18-year old who released a single via Neon Gold in December - the same label/blog that propelled Chvrches to the ears of many. So look out for her moving forwards very quickly. She is working with Lewis from PRIDES and the lovely Chris from Fatherson.
Flash Talk released their incredible debut album Sparks To Fireon Christmas Day. I can't recommend it highly enough and will be blogging about it in the near future.
Monogram, to my knowledge, is one guy, creating epic guitar pop/rock from the Borders. His song Romance (below)has been picked up by radio and if he has more tunes like this up his sleeve then he should gather some label interest.
Velveteen Saints are a band I've been following for a while and they have picked up excellent supports from The Charlatans and The View. If they pick up some momentum through self releases or little labels like Dead Beet Records, then they could go places.
Crash Club are a band gathering momentum and if they release an album in 2015 then they could really move forwards. Beautifully produced with excellent live shows and guest vocalists, this is also music ready to soundtrack TV and commercials.
Machines In Heaven are on the DIY label Hot Gem alongside Atom Tree. A well received album, EP, live shows and festival appearances mean they head into 2015 in red hot form and full of confidence.
Lastly, United Fruit are a band building towards the release of their latest album. Radio play has been well received (including daytime Radio 1) and word on the street is that the album is full of their raw energy with a pop edge. The songs released to radio certainly point towards bands like Foo Fighters.
United Fruit
10. Prides
Signed to Island Records, (they originally signed as Midnight Lion and then underwent a radical transformation into a pop band) Prides had a productive 2014 and are surely now at the stage where they just need the right song to allow them to break through and then follow that up with an album. Regardless - they seem in it for the long haul and are in demand for production and co-writing. Look out for them on the new Aqualung album this year which they have a co-write on.
11. Legends
I love a show by a seasoned veteran with an extensive back catalogue to call upon. McCartney, Neil Young, The Who, Candi Staton, Martha Reeves, Dylan, Brian Wilson....I've seen loads over the years.
I already have tickets for Van Morrison and Gladys Knight this year. Both play the Royal Concert Hall this year - tickets are not cheap so I'm pretty thankful to my brother for treating me for my birthday and Christmas!
I was fortunate to catch Bobby Womack last January, only a few months before he sadly passed away. If there are any legends coming to town then act fast - you never know how long they will be around for.
Gladys Knight - back in the day
12. Electric Fields Electric Fields is a new festival on the Scottish music calendar. It features the best in up and coming bands, is set in the grounds of a castle and the ticket price is exceptional. Sold? If not, check this promo video from the festivals first year in 2014.
13. Chvrches second album
The hype surrounding Chvrches debut album was pretty insane. The band ignored it, confident with their music and craft and carried on as normal, touring around the world through 2013 and 2014, making new friends and fans along the way.
They have somehow found the time to get the bones of a second album in place and rumours are that it will be out in 2015. The debut was full of depth - bitter sweet lyrics entwined with pop melodies, synths and beats with real thought. I look forward to the follow up.
14. Dr Cosmos Tape Lab
Two friends mentioned this band and their self released debut Ever Evolving Lounge to me within a week. Two friends who have excellent taste in music. Word of mouth is a great way to discover music and their lysergic pop album was full of Beatles-y melodies and hooks with a bit of home made Beta Band thrown in for good measure at times.
Their second album Beyond The Silver Sea will be released on Sugarbush Records in March.
They are a breath of fresh air, they couldn't care less about what is cool and who they should be sending their music to. This duo simply want to create good music and get it out there - and they do that superbly.
15. A surprise
There is a lot going on that I am aware of, but one of the things I look forward to most is being surprised - or at least I hope I am. Stumbling into a bar to discover a great local band/artist, getting to a gig early to find a brilliant young support band, tuning into Vic Galloway and hearing a stunning tune from an emerging Scottish act, walking into a tent at a festival and discovering a new favourite band or reading about something in a blog that I like the sound of.
Miaoux Miaoux - who will hopefully be releasing new material in 2015
As we were nearing the due date of our second baby I didn't make the very first Electric Fields Festival this year. Not a bad excuse I hope you agree!
I am kicking myself as the line-up, location (Drumlanrig Castle in Dumfries) and weather looked fantastic and price tag was pretty unbeatable. Not even I would try for a guest list when the ticket price is £25!
Electric Fields was the idea of a couple of people who are well versed in the independent, DIY and new bands scene in Scotland. I'm fortunate to have got to know Chay - the booked for Electric Fields through his work with the Solus Tent at the Wickerman Festival. Chay's line-up for the Solus Tent this year was exceptional - that is because he has his finger firmly on the pulse, so keep an eye out for the Electric Fields line-up and check out the amazing early bird offers for tickets.
So lets see what has stood out for Chay from the huge amount (and variety) of music he will have listened to and watched in 2014. 1. What singles/songs that have been released in 2014 have stood out for you?
I'll keep all my answers mostly Scottish. Anything by Neon Waltz, even the covers as they've got great taste. The new United Fruit stuff is fucking awesome, so all of that. Hector Bizerk's The fish that never swam EP.
Neon Waltz
2. What albums released in 2014 have you enjoyed?
I still haven't bought the new Twilight Sad album yet, which I need to rectify, and The Xcerts. Aphex Twin.Bear Arms. Dead by Young Fathers. Rave Tapes by Mogwai, but the t shirt that came with it has gone awol.
3. What old music/bands have you discovered/gone back to in 2014?
I picked up two particular music biogs at the same time earlier this year so I spent some time revisiting the respective artists - Billy Mackenzie with 'The Glamour Chase' by Tom Doyle and James Young's 'Nico. Songs they never play on the radio'. My wife bought me the Viv Albertine autobiography for my birthday, which was handy as I dig out The Slits now and again. I'll throw Locust Abortion Technician by Butthole Surfers in there too. It's been a few years and evil is as evil does.
4. What has been the musical highlight of 2014?
Electric Fields. I don't think I can begin to explain how good it felt doing it. It took so much work to put it together but it was totally worth it because we've got such a fantastic team of people working to achieve the same goal. Having a beer with the stage manager Kenney Harris after the last band had packed up and left, it was a mixture of relief and adrenalin. We didn't stop grinning for about 2 hours.
5. What are you plans for 2015?
Right now I'm working on Electric Fields, as are the rest of the team. There's some other things brewing that I can't go into so 2015's going to be a busy but fantastic year.
