10/ Coldplay ‘Mylo Xyloto’

Back in 2008 Coldplay surprised everyone with ‘Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends’ – an album that finally showcased a fresh energy and enthusiam rarely associated with themselves. Thankfully the somewhat oddly titled ‘Mylo Xyloto’ continued in very much in the same vein, with lead single ‘Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall’, ‘Paradise’ and ‘Charlie Brown’ all vibrant and distinctive. With a superb headline outing at Glastonbury, and stadiums shows booked for 2012, whilst ‘Mylo Xyloto’ may not be their best effort to date, expect a lot more from the band in 2012.

Key tracks: Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall, Charlie Brown, Paradise

09/ Frank Turner ‘England Keep My Bones’

Let’s be honest ‘Poetry Of The Deed’ was not a great Frank Turner album. Despite the ambition to marry together Frank’s always charming lyrics with a full band, something went wrong, meaning the album never quite followed through on the huge success of breakthrough ‘Love, Ire and Song’. ‘England Keep My Bones’ sees Frank revert back to the simplier stripped back sound that has worked so well for him in the past. With tracks such as ‘Peggy Sang The Blues’, ‘I Still Believe’ and the breathtaking ‘I Am Disappeared’, there really seems to be no limits to Turner’s continued success.

Key Tracks: I Am Disappeared, I Still Believe, Peggy Sang The Blues

08/ TV On The Radio ‘Nine Types Of Light’

It’s a great shame that 2011 will always be remembered as a year of sadness and loss for TV On The Radio following the death of their bassist Gerard Smith in April. ‘Nine Types Of Light’ shows a band constantly trying to innovate, from the glorious audio assault of ‘Cafeinatted Conciousness’ to the more subdued ‘Will Do’. Whilst the album may not reach the same dizzy heights of the highly acclaimed ‘Dear Science’, ‘Nine Types Of Light’ is an equally stylish and diverse effort.

Key Tracks: Cafeinatted Conciousness, Will Do, Repetition

07/ City And Colour ‘Little Hell’

If there’s only one positive to take from Alexisonfire’s decision to split this year, it’s that Dallas Green will have more time to concentrate on City And Colour. While this, his third effort, slightly underwhelmed – not of quite as consistant quality as previous efforts ‘Bring Me Your Love’ and ‘Sometimes’, there’s no denying Green is growing in confidence. ‘Little Hell’ saw Green evolve his sound with upbeat and layered offerings including’Fragile Bird’ and ‘Natural Disaster’, as well as the more tender ‘Northern Wind’ and ‘We Found Each Other In The Dark’

Key Tracks: Fragile Bird, Natural Disaster, Northern Wind

06/Yuck ‘Yuck’

20 years since grunge took over the world, who would of thought 2011 would be the year it made a shock revival in the form of Yuck. There’s nothing radically new on offer here, the likes of ‘Get Away’ ‘Holing Out’ and ‘The Wall’ could easily be mistaken for Sonic Youth offcuts . But for those of us too young to remember the alt rock / grunge takeover, Yuck have delivered a perfect slice on early 90′s nostalgia.

Key Tracks: Holing Out, The Wall, Shook Down

05/The Swellers ‘Good For Me’

In 2009 The Swellers broke into the punk rock scene with their superb sophomore effort ‘Ups And Downsizing’. Two years later and on a first listen of ‘Good For Me’ it’s an easy mistake to think the band have regressed. But whilst the the slick production and hardcore breakdowns may have gone, left is a stripped back burst of pure punk rock enegry, combined with catchy hooks and sincere lyrical nods – best showcased in ‘The Best I Ever Had’. Whilst 2011 may be the year Blink 182 have finally outgrown their pop punk roots, it’s reassuring to know The Swellers are around to pick up the torch.

Key Tracks: The Best I Ever Had, Parkview, Runaways

04/ Manchester Orchestra ‘Simple Math’

Despite being initially disappointed by this, Manchester Orchestra’s third effort, I’ve found myself returning to ‘Simple Math’ again and again. The title track is a pretty standard Manchester Orchestra affair; with soft verses shattered by a thunderous chorus. Elsewhere ‘April Fool’ and ‘Pale Black Eye’ also prove memorable, although without a doubt ‘Pensacola’ steals the show, showing the band at their rowdy best.

Key Tracks: Pensacola, Simple Math, April Fool,

03/The Horrible Crowes ‘Elsie’

I’ll be the first to admit I wanted ‘Elsie’ to be a great record. And to my surpise it was a GREAT record. It’s so rare that side projects turn out this well, and yet ‘Elise’, a collaboration between The Gaslight Anthem’s Brian Fallon and his guitar technician Ian Perkins, did more than just deliver. Offering enough familiarity to Fallon’s day job, but enough of a new dimesion to feel worthwhile, The Horrible Crowes took a blues heavy direction, with ‘Go Tell Everybody’, ‘Mary Ann’ and ‘Blood Loss’ all instant classics. If it wasn’t for the mid album slump of ‘Crush’ and ‘Ladykillers’ – both of which feel too sloppy and adolescent, ‘Elsie’ would have taken album of the year hands down.

Key Tracks: Behold The Hurricane, Mary Ann, Bloodloss

02/ Arctic Monkeys ‘Suck It And See’

It seems a long time since Arctic Monkeys first emerged as everyone’s favourite cheeky indie outfit from Sheffield. Now onto their fourth effort, ‘Suck It And See’ finally sees the band perfectly balance their tongue in cheeek humour in ‘Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair’, with Turner’s flawless pop crooning in ‘Love Is Laserquest’ and ‘Reckless Serenade’. By far their best, and most complete effort to date.

Key Tracks: Suck It And See, Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair, Reckless Serenade

01/ Bright Eyes ‘The Peoples Key’

Heavily rumoured as their last album, it was hard to know what to expect from Bright Eyes’ seventh studio album. Would it be another contemporary folk masterpiece or perhaps a return to the band’s previous digital wizardry. Well ‘The Peoples Hey’ was neither, instead seeing the band try their hand at electro pop. Packed with songs of simple structure, yet glorious melodies and production Oberst and co have rarely been so much fun. Of course, for those already dedicated, it may have proven to be too bold a leap to live up to former glories. Likewise for a newcomers, Oberst’s spiritual subject matter may be a little off putting. Regardless with tracks such as ‘Shell Games’, ‘Jejune Stars’ and ‘Ladder Song’ Bright Eyes have left us with an album that reveals more with each listen. Equally provocative as it is playful.

Key Tracks: Shell Games, Jejune Stars, Approximate Sunlight,  Halie Salassie, Ladder Song

Honourable Mentions

M83 ‘Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming’, Alkaline Trio ‘Damnesia’, Thursday ‘No Devolution’, Bon Iver ‘Bon Iver’, Four Year Strong ‘In Some Way, Shape, Or Form’, New Found Glory ‘Radiosurgery’. Chuck Ragan ‘Covering Ground’, Polar Bear Club ‘ Clash Batttle Guilt Pride’, Thrice ‘Major / Minor’, Taking Back Sunday ‘Taking Back Sunday’, Vincent James McMorrow ‘Early In The Morning’, Blink 182 ‘Neighbourhoods’, The Wonder Years ‘Surburbia I’ve Given You All And Now I’m Nothing, Radiohead ‘King Of Limbs’, Fleet Foxes ‘ Helplessnees Blues’, Death Cab For Cutie ‘Codes And Keys’, The Vaccines ‘What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?’, The Strokes ‘Angles’

They may describe themselves as “A trio of scuzz punk ramblers” on paper, but on record, behind their schizophrenic riffs and dynamic rhythms, there’s a slick, well oiled machine at work. ‘Tommy’ gets off to a reluctant start, with mid verse cries of ‘I enjoy myself’ recalling Pixies at their very best. Elsewhere ‘Lungs’ and Minutemen cover ‘Cut’ have a more sudden impact. Distinctive and inventive, prepare to have your mind melted. Available at  http://doublemuscle.bandcamp.com/

Hearts And Souls – We Were All Lost

Fresh faced having only formed at the start of 2011, full credit to this Leeds quartet for a flying start. There’s lots of promise in the strong juxtaposition of soaring guitars and Lucinda Livingstone’s delicate vocals. ‘We Were All Lost’ is pleasant enough, taking obvious influence from American pop rock, whilst ‘ Think Of Me’ is a little too indulgent by comparison. A worthy offering from a band still honing their sound. Available at http://soundcloud.com/heartsandsouls

Great Deeds – Teach Yourself Jazz Punk Volume One EP

Here’s the dilemma; I do like Punk. I DO NOT like Jazz. Interestingly the Great Deeds’ new genre whilst technically excellent, doesn’t quite cut it on both fronts: lacking a driving sense of passion on the punk side, and is far too immature to be considered as authentic jazz. That said, both ‘Numbers’ and ‘Quantum’ are bold efforts, with the band’s jazzier tendencies set loose later on in ‘Chainsaw’ and ‘Walls’.  Let’s be honest, how many people like both jazz and punk? Nice idea, if slightly flawed from the start.

Name: Mr Jo (Drums)

What is your reason for visit?

As great ambassadors of information

Is that business or pleasure?

The business of pleasure, the pleasure of business.

Have you brought any live animals or meat in your luggage?

The only animal in vicinity is the disgusting side of human beef behind me on the plane who insists on coughing, wheezing, snorting, and generally amplifying the gristle that no doubt hinders his soul. I guess he falls into the meat category too.

We’d hate to judge a band by their name, but should we be prepared for any trouble?

The most trouble you’ll get from us is how to deal with how disarmingly apologetic we are considering you’re staring down the barrel of a band called ‘Fucked Up.’ Smiles for miles from us, expect the right dose of firmness and self-deprecation.

 Have you had any recent brushes with the law enforcement?

There was one summer in which almost every show we played ended in disruption by Toronto Police. For one reason or another we found ourselves on the wrong side of some bi-law, capacity issue, unhinged fan, or scuffle. It seemed like we might have been targeted as something to be stopped. Talk about a feeling of celebrity.

While attending the 2008 Polaris Prize awards, we (and only we) were required to be searched by police upon entering and exiting the building. The suspicion also extended to us being patted down before walking on stage, and being watched by four very large police officers whilst we performed.

Your recent set at The Well caused quite the commotion. Can you explain your actions?

The magnetic north. Always the site of frothing dedicates of Fucked Up and a wild night on the right end of an amplifier. There are actually instructions contained on every Fucked Up record regarding how to behave at a Leeds show. If you play the record backwards you’ll be able to clearly hear the words “Two pints of Timothy Taylor, two Yorkshire puds frum yer [sic] mum, leap around like a maniac, sweat profusely and enjoy yourself.” Words to live by for 45 minutes at a time for sure.

Your latest single is named ‘Ship Of Fools’. Anything foolish you’d wish to own up to?

I bought all-white sneakers ahead of them becoming popular again and I just got mercilessly made fun of. Everyone would say “Tennis anyone?” or “You look like you work in a hospital.” Not even six or seven months later white shoes were totally BACK and I couldn’t enjoy any kind of reward for being ahead of the game or keep wearing white shoes ‘cause I’d look like a total follower.

You’ll be returning to West Yorkshire in August for Leeds Festival. Have you learned anything from this visit you’ll keep in mind for then?

Between the performance itself, the swordfish lunch I chewed on; unwittingly beside Brandon Flowers of the Killers, and the completely unexplainable matching, sequined, mariachi vests we found in our dressing room, our first appearance at Leeds festival was a memorable welcome. If that was any indication of the general social temperature of Yorkshire, then we ought to be prepared for some glamorous, delicious, star studded, out of control fun. Can’t wait to be back.

It’s no secret that Fucked Up harbor strong political opinions. Care to share your thoughts on our current Prime Minister (David Cameron)?

He does seem to represent the current ‘new breed’ of conservative politician – cunning and unreachable, suspect and seemingly removed from the hopefully benevolent reaches of public opinion and the kind of calm humanism which otherwise seems to prevail in popular culture.

‘Progression,’ bracketed by vagueness like the pursuit of “general well being” seems to ring frighteningly hollow when considering one’s own liberties and cultural comforts. Time will tell no doubt. It’s equally as important to be able to see things objectively as it is to be opinionated.

Anything else to declare?

Knaresborough Bridge is very pretty. Get a delicious Bitter in the White Locks. Don’t challenge ‘Fat Bob’ from Hard Skin to a game of ping pong.

Thank you. You may now proceed through passport control.

Article available in Vibrations format by clicking here.

Friday 24th

After arriving to a downpour on Wednesday and with the mud firmly bedded in for the weekend, by the time Friday came, I suspect I wasn’t the only one more than ready for the bands. Despite a gloomy start, Chipmunk provided some unlikely relief on the Other Stage, his playful R’n’B supplemented perfectly with some of Dizzee Rascal’s ‘Fix Up Look Sharp’. Metronomy then keep the grooves coming with their jilted electro rock on the Pyramid, before Mona blew away the John Peel tent, complete with standard stage climbing antics.

As the rain started to make an unwelcome return I found refuge in the brightly coloured West Oxylers Dance tent, complete with inflatable space invaders. First on Emmy The Great soothed with gentle melodies and a superb cover of Pixies ‘Where Is My Mind ‘ with Ash frontman Tim Wheeler, followed by Guillemots, who despite their best efforts, still feel like a band who have lost their way.

Fittingly just as Bright Eyes emerged on the Other Stage, the rain really started pour down. However, sporting his very own poncho, a seemingly intoxicated Conor Oberst was determined not to let the weather dampen spirits. Racing through tracks old and new, and dashes of non-chalant humour, for an hour I forgot it was raining. In contrast, Radiohead’s surprise set up at The Park was seen as a disappointment by most – the band announcing they would only be playing material from the recent ‘King Of Limbs’ and previous ‘In Rainbows’. With two surprise sets in as many years, you can’t help but feel their next proper headline outing is not too far away.

After pulling out at the last minute last year, back injury or not, U2 had it all to prove on the Pyramid. Opening with five tracks from Áchtung Baby’ was a bold start, before the inevitable onslaught of hits. They even found time to play the god awful ‘Get On Your Boots’ amongt the classics; ‘One’, ‘Where The Streets Have No Name’, ‘With Or Without You’ etc etc.  Despite overcoming the torrential downpour, and trying just about everything to create a legendary moment – including covering ‘Jerusalem’ and ‘Yellow’ and a superb video message from the International Space Station during the middle of ‘Beautiful Day’, U2 delivered only just about enough to deem their performance a success. At times euphoric, but ultimately predictable, they just can’t hide those ever increasing signs that they have passed their best.

Saturday 25th

Hotly tipped for big things in 2011 Yuck couldn’t quite deliver on the John Peel Stage. Maybe it was the sludgy treck into the tent, or perhaps the band’s lack on engagement with the crowd, but you can’t help feel it was a missed opportunity for those not already familiar with their superb revival of 90s alt grunge. The sun finally appeared in time for The Gaslight Anthem who fittingly emerged on the Pyramid to the saxophone solo of ‘Jungleland’ in tribute to the late E-street band legend Clarence Clemmons. Whilst there was never any way the band would top their 2009 outing, which featured a guest appearance from Springsteen himself, a generous hour of material from all their three albums and one EP was lapped up by an adoring crowd.

A quick nip to West Oxylers see Pulled Apart By Horses give the festival a sharper edge with their glorious onslaught of noise and onstage vomiting, before Jessie J, The Kills  and  Jimmy Eat World  all deliver exactly what you’d want a sunny Saturday afternoon. For the pop diva that’s plenty of family friendly singalongs, for The Kills it’s razor sharp grooves – Alison Mosshart is equally alluring and terrifying with a siren like presence, where as for Jimmy Eat World it’s their own brand of American soft rock that has been consistently amazing for a now whopping seven albums.

It may have been the worst kept secret in Glastonbury history, but Pulp special guest slot at the Park was nethertheless glorious. Unlike Radiohead they instead opted to play everything you’d want to hear; from the inevitable climaxes of ‘Disco 2000’ and ‘Common People’, to ‘Something Changed’ and ‘Razzamatazz’, all superbly supplemented with Jarvis trademark northern wit. The only disappointment was their set came at the cost of Elbow’s return to the Pyramid.

It’s certainly a hard act for Coldplay to follow and yet they, as they seem to make a habit of doing at Glastonbury, once again raised the bar. Back with a new lease of life, even slower tracks such as ‘God Put A Smile Upon Your Face’ were given an almost punk makeover – with Will Champion providing to be an absolute beast behind his drum kit.  Given that the band can throw out some of their biggest tracks in ‘Yellow’ and ‘The Scientist’ within the first half hour and not struggle for the big moments later on is testament to their wealthy back catalogue. The set really comes to life with the still astounding ‘Viva La Vida’ and latest single ‘Every Tear Drop Is A Waterfall’ which both perfectly channel the festival spirit, during the latter the Pyramid was illuminated in a wash of colour. Suddenly U2’s effort on Friday felt very pedestrian by comparison.

Sunday 26th

With the sun shining hotter than Saturday, and the mud finally starting to dry up, The Low Anthem got the closing day of a perfect relxing start, before Cold War Kids deliver their bar room blues to a sunkissed Other Stage.

Unfortunately for Paul Simon, despite drawing the crowds in, his legends set on the Pyramid didn’t quite deliver as much as hoped – perhaps a little thwarted to be the now overwhelming mid afternoon heat. Thankfully TV On The Radio brought the grooves, and despite the recent loss of their bassist Gerard Smith played an uptempo set, with ‘Staring At The Sun’, ‘Wolf Like Me’ and ‘Caffeinated Consciousness’ all stunning. There was even time for a somewhat unexpected but awesome cover of Ray Parker Junior’s Ghostbusters theme.

A steady treck up to the Avalon stage was rewarded by a disappointing second set from The Low Anthem. Not that their distinctive vocal harmonies didn’t hit the spot, just playing an almost identical set to their earlier main stage outing felt a missed opportunity to do something different. City and Colour  followed and were in high spirits. Whilst some will have felt Dallas Green’s much loved acoustic sound has become a little overcomplicated with the addition of a full backing, there’s no denying the progress the band have made in a few years. New material was eased in gently, with solo renditions of ‘Body In a Box’ and ‘O’Sister’ shining brightly midset.

Having already missed the first hour of Beyonce and in no rush to catch the second, I’ll admit I’m perhaps not the best person to the review the diva’s headline outing. Of course, there were hits aplenty, eye boggling dance routines and even a surreal Destiny’s Child medley. But for me too many pauses between songs, onstage shenanigans, and covers of Prince, Kings Of Leon and Etta James all felt like an act trying a little too hard to compensate for being too far out of her comfort zone. Fun and different, but dare I say, shouldn’t have been headlining.

With Glastonbury now on hiatus until it returns post Olympics, there’s no denying 2011 gave it a strong send off. Make no mistake work will have already started on a strong comeback for 2013. Only 700 or so days to go!

Part 2 – Day 11 – 20

Day 11 – A song from your favourite band – The Gaslight Anthem ‘Drive’

Althought I don’t really have just ONE favourite band, if I were to pick one from the last few years it would have to be Gaslight (with The National and Brand New narrowly missing out). Since first hearing them back in 2008, I found myself going back to them numerous times. ‘Drive’ is by far my favourite track from their debut ‘Sink Or Swim’ – I’ve always loved it’s raw punk rock energy and killer hook.

Day 12 – A song from a band you hate – Pendulum ‘Propane Nightmares’

This was an easy one. Maybe I’m getting a bit too long in the tooth but I really don’t get Pendulum’s Drum n’Bass meets Rock crossover. The Prodigy have been doing that much much better and for a lot longer. With Pendulum it all sounds too cheap and faddy. I tend favour music that has a timeless quality, and offers something more than just a disposable fix. With Pendulum I  guarantee that in a few years people will have grown tired of it and moved on.

Day 13 – A guilty pleasure – The Thrills ‘Big Sur’

Guilty pleasures are always difficult as I don’t think you should ever feel guilty about something you enjoy listening to. I’ll go forThe Thrills here just as over recent years I’ve moved away from generic Indie / guitar rock, but ‘Big Sur’ is a song I’ve always liked – particularly for the chilled out vibe of it’s namesake captured perfectly by this song.

Day 14 – A song no one would expect you to love – Cee Lo Green ‘Forget You’

Anyone who knows me knows I’m all about Alt / Americana / punk  etc. But I do have a growing appreciation for great pop songs; from the Beach Boys to this contemporary classic, you can’t beat an upbeat tempo and iresistable hook. ‘Forget You’ is arguably the best pop song written in a number of years; with splashes of humour and heartache, masterfully juxtaposed and condensed within a catchy melody.

Day 15 – A song that describes you – Bruce Springsteen ‘No Surrender’

Everything I’ve achieved in my life so far has been through hardwork and giving my all. Having grown up listening to punk, this song perfectly captures that fighting spirit, as well as the raw determination of youth. For all the glorious production on Springsteen’s more famous songs, the simplicity and passion of ‘No Surrender’ blows me away everytime.

Day 16 – A song you used to love but now hate – Manic Street Preachers ‘A Design For Life’

Having listened to the Manics a lot when growing up it’s hard to choose this, the song that introduced me to the band, as a song I now hate. But given that it’s their biggest hit to date and the one song that everyone associates with the Manics, it is frustrating that people make judgements about the band on this one song. In my opinion, the Manics were at their best before Richie Edwards disappeared – when they were more aggressive and political. ‘A Design For Life’ was the comeback single after Richie’s disappearance, and represents a completely different band to the one that I love.

Day 17 – A song you hear often on the radio – Jonathon Jeremiah ‘Heart Of Stone’

When I first did the 30 Day Song challange I picked Jessie J’s ‘Price Tag’ as I don’t listen to the radio a lot and this is the one song I would hear freqnetly whilst at the gym. Since then I’ve started listening to Radio 2 a lot more. ‘Heart Of Stone’ is played almost everyday and I really like it’s old school vibe. An instant classic.

Day 18 – A song you wish you heard on the radio - Neutral Milk Hotel ‘In An Aeroplane Over The Sea’

Neutral Milk Hotel are one of those band I feel never really got the credit they deserve. Sure, they remain one of those cult bands people continue to discover and redicover again and again, but they never got any mainstream recognition. ‘In An Aeroplane…’ is the perfect pop song, short, simple and cheerful. It would certainly brighten up my day if I heard it on the airwaves.

Day 19 – A song from your favourite album – Brand New ‘Limousine’

If there is one album I would choose as my favourite it would have to be Brand New’s ‘The Devil And God Are Raging Inside Of Me’. Not only is it phenomenal album, that I never tire of, it also reminds of just starting University. Like all good albums, my favourite tracks is always changing but Limousine is one that has always stood out – particularly due to the emotional intensity given the subject matter it is based on.

Day 20 – A song that you listen to when you’re angry – Manchester Orchestra ‘Shake It Out’

The beauty of Manchester Orchestra has always been the extreme contrast of their sound. They can switch from moments of overwhleming power to the most delicate of vocals in an instant. ‘Shake It Out’ really captures this, and is the perfect choice for angry song – with a slow building rage, until the inevitable explosion, followed by a calm comedown afterwards.

They now return with Ivor Novello songwriting award to their name, as well as having just completed a very respectable stint supporting Elbow on their recent arena tour. 2011 is certainly proving to be their year. However with no new material in sight, my concern was this outing may offer little more than a rehash of the last show for the benefit of those still playing catchup.

Surprisingly not, as not only was the set substantially reworked – pretty much reversed in order; but admirably a lot of the songs were reimagined. With the backing of a full band tracks such as ‘Pieces’ and ‘Home’ were delivered more uptempo than on record, with a heavier vibe than their usual, more subtle tones.

New songs ‘The Bell’ and ‘Grateful Song’ did add some variety, although their lack of familiarly meant they washed over the majority of the crowd. There was added excitment towards the end of their mammoth hour and half set when rumours that Elbow were at the gig; later confirmed by O’Brien teasing ‘Thank you to Elbow, wherever you are’, and post gig reports of incident the band had with the also present Everything, Everything.

However the biggest shock of the night was in what was not played – with the unexpected ommission of THAT Ivor Norvello winning song ‘The Pact (I’ll Be Your Fever)’. Maybe it’s the first hint of artistic pretension creeping in , maybe they ran out of time or maybe they just didnt feel like it. Either way, for as far as this band have already come, there’s still a much bigger future ahead of them.

View the setlist  here

When you list Nirvana, Sonic Youth and Dinosaur Jr as your influences you are setting the bar very high. Fortunately for Mondo Cane, such comparisons are indeed justified. Both ‘Do It’ and ‘Popular View’ perfectly capture the feeling of youthful disillusionment, controlled in short bursts of fury. Crank it up.

Resonance (Demo)

It’s rare that a band chooses a name that simultaneously describes their best and worst quality.  ‘Shapes’, ‘Shaman’ and ‘Addictions’ all offer reflections of 70s classic rock; not necessarily a bad thing, but only if you can get past that it’s all been done before.  Harmless nostalgia, but too safe for some

Jamie Evans (Demo)

Not an album apparently, instead a selection of songs from his 50 strong repertoire. Potato / potatoe. Pretension aside, a superb offering.  First track ‘Walk Away’ is particularly memorable, with shades of U2, whilst ‘Butterflies’ is a stirring finale. Does plod along a bit too slowly midway though.

Roger Davies – Live In Concert, Volume 1 (Album)

I’ll be honest, upon approaching this “selection of songs inspired by his enduring affection for his native Yorkshire” I was expecting the worse.  Not because of the subject matter; myself having lived in Yorkshire my entire life, but for fear of limited ambition. Dubbed ‘The Yorkshire Songwriter’, I could feel my muscles cringe as I nervously pressed play.

To my surprise, what I found instead was an equally sincere and entertaining tribute to everything from ‘Brighouse On A Saturday Night’ to ‘Huddersfield Town’. Think a less wacky Mik Artistik, accompanied with simple acoustic rhythms and a lot less straws.

Whilst the aforementioned tracks will naturally bring a smile to those familiar with the areas, efforts such as ‘Northern Trash’ and ‘Nightclubbin’ go a step further – with oberservations on popular culture that surpass regional boundaries.

However, as I’d feared Davies’ charm does start to wear thin by the end of this 11 track offering. There’s no denying his Yorkshire accent can carry many a pleasant melody, but once you’ve heard one track, you’ve heard them all. The cover of ‘This Land Is Your Land’ feels particularly weak, even if judging by the audience’s response it is a crowd pleaser on the live circuit.

Davies may not be West Yorkshire’s answer to Richard Hawley, Billy Bragg or even Frank Turner just yet; lacking the subtlety and musicianship of the former, political awareness of Bragg, and sheer charisma of the latter, but there’s plenty to enjoy here. I just won’t be eagerly anticipating Volume 2.

Watch Northern Trash

The prospect of hearing the album in its entirety was a guarantee draw to those who have followed the band for a number of years; even if the tiny Academy 3 wasn’t quite soldout. Regardless, the intimacy of Academy 3 -a venue the band last graced back when they were first touring the album, promised to offer an occassion to good to miss. The only danger? That such an event wouldn’t live up to such high expectations.

Starting with a run of material from recent offering ‘No Devloucion’ created an inescapable feeling that whilst songs such as ‘Fast To End’, ‘No Answers’ and ‘Past and Future Ruins’ were well received, both band and crowd seem more excited for the inevitable.

Full credit to Thursday, who tore through ‘Full Collapse’ with as much enthusiasm and vigour as when it was first released, despite having performed these songs endless times over the last decade. From the soaring start of ‘Únderstanding In A Car Crash’, to the more cautious build of ‘A Hole In The World’ ,as on record, live, the album offers the perfect balance of highs and lows, and the juxtaposition of loud and soft. Predictability the back to back hits of ‘Çross Out The Eyes’ and ‘Paris In Flame’ were the showstealers – although the closing surge of a supercharged ‘How Long Is The Night’ brought a perfect finale.

Whilst most gigs usually hinge on the unexpected, Thursday, despite delivering exactly what was expected, still continue to impress. Here’s hoping for some ‘War All The Time’ 10 year anniversary shows in 2013.

For those who know me, some of my selections will be obvious, but hopefully with a few surprises in there to keep things fresh. For those of you who don’t, I hope this gives you an insight into which bands and which songs mean the most to me.

I’ll split it into three posts to make it a bit easier to digest.

Part 1 – Days 1 – 10

Day 01 – Your current favorite song – The National ‘Bloodbuzz Ohio’

I first heard this about May time last year and loved it from the start. It has since turned me onto the National, who have quickly become one of my favourite bands. And despite their wealthy back catalogue ‘Bloodbuzz…’ is still the song to beat in my books.

Day 02 – Your least favorite song – Dizzee Rascal ‘Bonkers’

Everything about this song makes me cringe. It’s an awful and ridiculous song made all the worse by the fact that everyone other than myself seems to love it. Nothing against you Dizzee, but if I ever hear this again it will be too soon.

Day 03 – A song that makes you happy – The Get Up Kids ‘I’m A Loner Dottie, A Rebel’

The Get Up Kids, despite their cult status amongst those interested in then American pop punk scene, are one of the most cruelly under-rated and unappreciated acts out there. I love the energy of this song, particularly the guitar led intro, and like all great songs, always seems to be over before you want it to be.

Day 04 – A song that makes you sad – TV on the Radio ‘Family Tree’

I’m not going to be pretend to be a huge TV on the Radio fan. It was breakthrough ‘Dear Science’ that introduced them to me, with ‘Family Tree’ being the one song above all the others that had me going back for more and more. The emotion conveyed can only be described as gloriously melancholic, and whilst the lyrics don’t have any particular meaning to me, this song never fails to stir the emotions.

Day 05 – A song that reminds you of someone – Band of Horses ‘Is There A Ghost’

Simply put, Band of Horses are a phenomenal band. It makes me happy to see after last year’s ‘Infinite Arms’ they’re finally starting to get some well deserved attention. Ironically ‘Is There A Ghost’ is not my favourite song by a longshot, but as it reminds me of my amazing girlfriend that’s more than worthy of it making this list.

Day 06 – A song that reminds you of somewhere – The Get Up Kids – ‘Holiday’

A song that reminds you of somewhere. Holiday. Ahhh I see what you did there. No, ‘Holiday’ doesn’t remind me of past holidays, it reminds me of my youth and many Friday nights spent in Sheffield Corporation with mates, who I’m pleased to say are still mates now. This song will always remind me of there and those nights.

Day 07 – A song that reminds you of a certain event – Bruce Springsteen ‘Born To Run’

‘Born to Run’ was always my favourite Springsteen song. Even before I started listening to Springsteen. And after Glastonbury 2009 (of which I’m convinced no one will ever come close to bettering) and many, many hours spent listening to Springsteen since, it still is. There’s something timeless about it, it always sounds as fresh as the first time you heard it. The very definition of a classic.

Day 08 – A song that you know all the words to – The Gaslight Anthem ‘The ’59 Sound’

Since first taking a punt on Gaslight based on a magazine recommendation back at Leeds Festival 2008 they have become my favourite band of recent years. Whilst ‘The ’59 Sound’ is their most well known offering, it was my first taste of the band that have gone on to become an important part of my life for the last few years. It was also the first song I learnt how to singalong to whilst strumming, hence why I know all the words.

Day 09 – A song that you can dance to -  Foals  ‘Spanish Sahara’

I can’t dance. I can maybe muster an awkward shuffle at best. Or if I’ve had enough to drink I can move around quite choatically. But definately not dance. Either way, ‘Spanish Sahara’ was my favourite single of 2010, and given its epic build up and euphoric climax I could probably brave something more than the standard head nod / toe tap for.

Day 10 – A song that makes you fall asleep -  Jack Johnson ‘Breakdown’

Anything for a quiet life has become somewhat of a motto of mine. I’m quite a relaxed guy and I don’t like fuss or unneccassary hassle. ‘Breakdown’, and Jack Johnson as artist, is perfect for sitting back and just forgetting about everything for a while. I also have very fond memories of being laid back in the sun at the Pyramid stage at Glastonbury 2010 listening to this. Bliss.

It would have been very easy for Daniel Pearson to continue down the alt Americana route established by debut ‘Satellites. Instead ‘Wishing Well’ is a bold step forward; notably more electric and urgent, yet will still satisfy those already converted.

With a slightly poppier direction and irresistible hook, this should propel Pearson even further. Elsewhere, the free download of ‘Waves in the Sea’ returns the songwriter to his acoustic and sentimental best.

Watch Waves In The Sea

Monmon – Garage Rock

Labels. Something we writers apparently love. Imagine my delight to find Monmon have helpfully named their debut album ‘Garage Rock.’ Sometimes these reviews really do write themselves.

It’s certainly a bold move. After all, it gives me a vast yardstick of references in which to compare it against. Fortunately for Monmon, whilst this ten track offering might not deliver what you’d initially expect, it conveys a level of authenticity very true to its namesake.

Expecting to be assaulted by a barrage of detuned guitars, relentless drumming and ear bleeding vocals, instead opener ‘Whale’ has a much more patient build, both self-assured yet charismatically laid back. Until just past the three minute thirty mark. When the aforementioned fury is finally unleashed.

The trio of ‘Roofie, ‘Leeds Brig, Sunday Morning’ and ‘Shudder’ follow, all with a much more direct approach; there’s simply no hiding from their big and noisy choruses. It’s only much later on with ‘Knives’ that any fatigue starts to show, the pace slowing before the closing duo of ‘Monkey Fist’ and ‘Ring Out The Bell, Lloyd.

Like all good garage albums, ‘Garage Rock’ is equally ambitious and chaotic. The perfect balance of disciplined songwriting, left beautifully raw around the edges.

Watch Whale