Welsh, Awen rock band Holy Coves head out on tour at the end of this month. The band will headline nine cities and nine independent venues across the UK kicking off their full UK tour with Bristol and Liverpool in October, then on to Birmingham, Manchester, London, Glasgow and Aberdeen in November, with their final shows of the year taking place in Leeds and their North Wales homecoming show in Wrexham.
This will be Holy Coves first ever fully independent tour run by the band and their team. They will be joined by some of the UKs finest independent bands, The Heavy North, Hazy Sundays, Maze, Box Of Trash, Rivia, Little Juke, Chase The Wild, Monza Express, Transmission Suite, SickRichard, Dakota Avenue, Luke Jones, Healer, The Dassins, Tom Collins, Charlie George Dempsey, Paul Askew and Suns Of Rest.
Tour Dates 30th October – Exchange – Bristol 31st October – Kazimier Stockroom – Liverpool 1st November – Sunflower Lounge – Birmingham 14th November – 33 Oldham Street, Manchester 15th November – Troubadour – London 28th November – Nice n Sleazy – Glasgow 29th November – Tunnels – Aberdeen 12th December – Royal Park Cellars – Leeds 13th December – The Lab – Wrexham
Birmingham band The Assist are back with an intense depiction of modern day life with their new single ‘The Luckiest Man’. The Council-Pop outfit are one of the UK’s most established underground groups and have redefined the boundaries of independent music with their acclaimed inspiriting style, fresh impetus, hope and melody.
Their latest single ‘The Luckiest Man’ is the second offering from the band’s highly anticipated second studio album ‘Disconnections’. The track details the internal conflict that we so often experience when trying to weigh up chasing success and acknowledging what we already have. Lead singer Mikey provides a ruthless analysis of our personal value systems with a matter-of-fact observation on life today. Touching on what inspired the track, Mikey said “I feel that having a creative personality is often paired with an overwhelming fear of becoming stagnant or potentially even a failure. Consumed by a desire to always progress in all aspects of life I found that I would often disregard all that I already had right in front of me. It was important for me to detail that in my music. It is now out in the open as a constant reminder for me and anyone else that needs reminding that we have a lot to be thankful for.”
Mikey’s calculated verse depicting a mid-twenties angst sits above guitarist’s Ryan Stanton’s infectious chords, helping the track to glide forward with an ambient lure. Assisted by Jorge Poole’s prolific and ever-present rhythmic drive, the gentle production adds a frightening depth. A kaleidoscopic realm of sounds was created by producer Ryan Malcs (Wolf Alice/Superfood). A production debut that has proven to be the catalyst for the band’s evolution. Mikey delivers a calming vocal with some clear emotion that entices listeners to the message within. Speaking of the song, Mikey said, “The Luckiest Man was my chance to express my gratitude for all that I have in life. In moments of reflection I felt that by acknowledging what I was truly grateful for I become to no longer desire anything other than friends, family and health. I hope that my music inspires people to think in similar ways but if not I’m grateful that it inspires me.”
Ever since forming in 2014, The Assist have had their finger on the pulse of how the modern generation consume music. Soaking their soaring indie anthems with hip-hop-inflected beats, dance-tinged rhythms and emotive breakdowns. It’s this eclectic adventurism that has seen The Assist sell out venues across the UK as well as share the stage with Blossoms, The Twang and Dylan John Thomas. ‘The Luckiest Man’ is another entry to the band’s commendable canon, who are most certainly in the Jack Grealish category of assists. Speaking of football, the band previously enjoyed a starring slot on the landmark television show Soccer AM. Whilst away from the pitch they’ve graced big stages at festivals such as Reading & Leeds, TRANSMT, Y-NOT and Isle of Wight. Their 2021 debut album, ‘Council-Pop’, entered the UK charts at number 21 and led to a top 10 independent album. You may have previously heard The Assist on BBC Radio 6 and Radio X where they have been praised by the likes of Tom Robinson, Steve Lamacq and John Kennedy.
As much as The Assist’s more reflective notions have shone through in their most recent releases, this track is an embodiment of who the band are as people. With 2024 came a new-found pride in their art, their biggest ever gigs, and now, an extended catalogue of youthful indie-anthems tucked into their back pocket.
Their upcoming album ‘Disconnections’ is out on the 2nd of May.
Upcoming Tour Dates
16th May – Sidney & Matilda – Sheffield 23rd May – The Old England – Bristol 30th May – The Deaf Institute – Manchester 6th June – Camden Assembly – London 7th June – O2 institute 2 – Birmingham
Indie Revolutions Single Of The Week goes to the fantastic, high-energy single ‘Watch Yourself Boy’ by genre-defying band The Silver Lines, the latest track from their upcoming EP.
The Silver Lines are the fantastic Birmingham based alt indie rock band made up of brothers Dan and Joe Ravenscroft on lead Vocals and Guitar respectively, George Vivian on Bass and Kindo on Drums.
The Silver Lines were first formed in 2018 by the two brothers who said they were “uninspired by the current landscape of guitar music” and as such, decided that they were going to take matters into their own hands and make music of their own.
“Repulsed by the notion of being just another ‘all white male indie’ band that sings of teenage love or rants empty pseudo prophetic quotes”, The Silver Lines set out to release new music that defies the genre and the peers within it. The product is a very self aware form of songwriting that covers many taboo topics from toxic masculinity, learnt behaviours from past generations, and explores personal experiences that connect with the listener on a much deeper level.
Speaking about the single, the band comment: “Watch Yourself Boy is a clever take on the ‘Rock N Roll lifestyle’. We all say we would love to live like rock stars but do we really mean it? Lyrically it’s narrated in a way of ambiguity for interpretation. Musically it’s driven, unrelenting and very heavy. It’s an echo to the previous single Cocaine.”
They add: “Based around four notes, the key is in its simplicity and use of light and shade to gain it’s effectiveness. In contrast to the previous period of The Silver Lines, this era of the band is focusing a lot more on what works with a live performance and how simple the song can be whilst being effective.”
Discussing their forthcoming EP, The Silver Lines explain: “…And The Lord Don’t Think I Can Handle It captures the energy of our live sound — angsty, bold, yet more introspective than their earlier records. The tracks depict the cyclical nature of our lives, swinging from chaotic moments to nostalgic reflections.”
Showcasing some of their heaviest work to date, Birmingham Alt-Rockers The Silver Lines new single ‘Tame’’ captures the band at their most potent and intense. Taken from the band’s upcoming second EP ‘…And The Lord Don’t Think I Can Handle It’, the track offers a taste of what can be expected as well as how the quartet’s sound has progressed.
Truly capturing the essence of the high-octane live performances which have seen them sell out shows across the UK and beyond, appear on festival line ups through the US and Europe, and gain a wave of support from national radio (Huw Stephens on BBC Radio 1, Tom Robinson on BBC Radio 6 Music and John Kennedy on Radio X).
A departure from the indie-come-alt-rock tendencies of their previous material, ‘Tame’’ sees the band delve into the punk elements of their sound with a ferocious, Soft Play-esque approach. Built around a relentless guitar line, punching drums and driving bass, the track creates an explosive, fuzzy backdrop for the urgent, infectious, shouted lead vocal.
Talking about their upcoming EP, the band explain:
“The Silver Lines second EP …And The Lord Don’t Think I Can Handle It, is a darker and more provocative piece of work than our previous.”
Having received support from the likes of BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 6 Music, Radio X (including two X-Posure Hot Ones), Clash, NME, Louder Than War, Ones To Watch, Rolling Stone France, Rock & Folk and Earmilk, The Silver Lines have built a reputation as a touring band, playing on some huge stages including Trans Musicales – France to over 3,500 people, SXSW, New Colossus Festival – New York and some dates in LA. Played at Stockton Calling, Focus Wales, MosFest, BBC Introducing stage at LakeFest, The Alternative Escape, French Toursand opening for The Buzzcocks.
The Mood, a British Indie Rock DIY, emerged from the streets of Birmingham in 2021, blending the infectious energy of Britpop with the raw dynamism of 2000s Indie Rock and the attitude of British Punk. Comprising lead vocalist/guitarist Daniel Priestley, bassist Nathan Keevil, drummer Max Stanway and guitarist Jaimie Jagger (also the frontman of Jazzcat).
The Mood swiftly became synonymous with their distinctive sound – a seamless fusion of distorted scratchy guitars and euphoric melodies. Influenced by iconic bands like Blur, Arctic Monkeys, The Smiths and The Libertines, The Mood skilfully crafted a sonic tapestry that echoed the spirit of their predecessors while carving out a niche uniquely their own. Their lyrics, often introspective and poetic, captured the essence of everyday life, love, and the tumultuous journey of working-class youth. The band’s rise to prominence was marked by electrifying live performances that left audiences craving more. Their debut single, “Ultimate Indie Disco,” released in 2021, encapsulated the band’s evolution, followed up by much loved “Daisypicker”.
Boozing, Dancing, and a Chance of Romancing is a high-octane anthem that encapsulates the raw energy and intensity of a wild night out. With gritty guitars, pounding drums, and a frenetic bassline, this track ignites a firestorm of adrenaline from the very first note. Listeners are thrust into the pulsating heartbeat of a crowded nightclub, where the air is thick with anticipation and desire. Three friends find themselves entangled in a primal competition, vying for the attention of the same woman. Each verse paints a vivid picture of their relentless pursuit, fuelled by a potent cocktail of alcohol, ego, and lust. Distorted vocals cut through the chaos, delivering lyrics that oscillate between defiance and vulnerability. With a swaggering demeanour, the song recounts the trials and triumphs of the night, embodying the reckless spirit of youth and rebellion. Meanwhile, the band’s frenzied instrumentation builds to a crescendo, mirroring the escalating tension on the dance floor. Despite the fierce rivalry, there’s an underlying sense of camaraderie among the protagonists, bound together by their shared quest for excitement and fulfilment. In the chorus, the band converge in a raucous chant shouting words from the title.
“Boozing, Dancing, and a Chance of Romancing” is more than just a song; it’s a visceral experience that transports listeners to the heart of the action. With its infectious energy and irresistible hooks, this track leaves an indelible impression, inviting audiences to lose themselves in the thrill of the moment, and embrace the chaos of the night.
UK power trio TEMPLETON PEK return to the musical fray with the frantic earworm of a new single “SAVAGES.” Taken from a brand-new album coming in the autumn/fall of the same name, the band are back and they have something to say.
“It’s been a long time since we released music, and we didn’t want to come back with anything less than the strongest material possible. ”Savages” is the perfect advert for what to expect from the new album. It’s big, it’s loud, and it isn’t afraid to say what it thinks.” Explained vocalist/bassist Neal Mitchell.
Produced and mixed by George Perks (Enter Shikari, Skindred) at Vada Studios in their hometown of Birmingham, and mastered by Andy ‘Hippy’ Baldwin (Oasis, The Who) of legendary Metropolis studios in London, UK.
“Savages” explores the complexity of human nature and is written from two different perspectives, the left and right side of the political spectrum, reacting to world events with each side proclaiming to either “Break out the guns!” or “Move with the times!”
The song is reflective and asks uncomfortable questions about ourselves, whether we have really actually learnt anything in the last 5 years: Are we not better than this? Is the best we have? Are we more than savages?
Guitarist Kev green said “we wanted to push ourselves across the board with writing this record. The way in which we write and produce, lyrically and vocally, performance wise and ultimately music wise. We’ve played with structure and style and every part of this record is there for a reason. George really pushed us and allowed us to go for something special, and we truly believe we have.”
On recording in the UK for the first time in over a decade, drummer Jon Keen said, “we were originally slated to return to the states where we recorded the last 3 albums, then the pandemic hit, and we essentially scrapped what was to be our next album. We kept writing and re-purposing ideas then decided to stay local because having the luxury of taking our time and developing the songs has meant we have a stronger album for it.”
Holy Coves have just announced the support bands for their spring tour. Joining them to kick start their tour this weekend at Head of Steam in Newcastle is Bosola and Primaveras, at Tunnels in Aberdeen it’s Pitnamoon and Monza Express, Chester Live Rooms it’s Muddy Elephant and Sister Envy, Record Junkee in Sheffield it’s Marseille and Marples, at The Bunkhouse in Swansea it’s The Rivers and The Secret Faces and at Dead Wax in Birmingham, The Institutes and Siracuse.
Friday 5th April – Head of Steam – Newcastle Saturday 6th April – Tunnels – Aberdeen Friday 19th April – Live Rooms – Chester Saturday 20th April – Record Junkee – Sheffield Friday 10th May – The Bunkhouse – Swansea Saturday 1st June – Dead Wax – Birmingham
Welsh, Awen Rock band Holy Coves’ Indie Revolution Spring tour kicks off next week, starting in Newcastle and Aberdeen, Followed by Chester and Sheffield, Wrexham’s Focus Wales Festival then Swansea and Birmingham.
The tour will be an Indie Revolution promotion in collaboration with some of the best independent music promoters on the UK tour circuit. DP Events, AGP, Live Rooms, Our Sound Music, Focus Wales, The Bunkhouse & We Believe!
Holy Coves singer songwriter Scott Marsden says “I’ve been working in the background on Indie Revolution over the past couple of years. I’m so happy the Indie Revolution team have pulled together to make this happen! We can’t wait to play all the new cities this year. Holy Coves have had huge growth this year because of independent promoters like the Indie Revolution team. I’m happy we can give something back to them. There will be lots more to come from Indie Revolution & Holy Coves, we’re also planning an Autumn tour together!”
Friday 5th April – Newcastle – Head Of Steam Saturday 6th April – Aberdeen – Tunnels Friday 19th April – Chester – Live Rooms Saturday 20th April – Sheffield – Record Junkee Friday 10th May – Wrexham – Focus Wales Festival Friday 31st May – Swansea – The Bunkhouse Saturday 1st June – Birmingham – Dead Wax
Charm are an Indie/Alternative Rock band based in Birmingham, forming in the Easter of 2023, they have found local success with their debut single “Roll Against the Tide” and follow up EP “The Live Sessions”. This has helped land them support slots for bands such as The Assist, Spangled, Rosa Caelum, Flake and Sovereigns, ultimately leading to the sell out of their hometown debut headline at the end of 2023.
The roots of the band were established through an organic encounter in a Birmingham rehearsal room, where Matt (Lead Guitarist) and Ky (Frontman) connected instantly. Longing for a raw, driven, and ballad-infused sound reminiscent of the bands that shaped their formative years, they recognised the opportunity to carve out their niche amid the clean-cut sounds prevalent in the UK at that time. After recording and producing a solid collection of “Bedroom Demos”, the pair were able to recruit close friends Tom (Bassist) and Cal (Drummer), completing the lineup.
Charm prides itself on its large, yet intricate sound. Crafted within the early months of their formation, they relentlessly gigged around the West Midlands, knowing that the more hours they put in, the better their live sound would become. This clearly paid dividends, catching the eye of promoters like The Future Sound Project, This Feeling and What’s Happening Concerts.
Storytelling is another key aspect of Charm’s music, most notably evident in their newly released single, “Shadow of Time”. The lyrics reflect on how, throughout our lives as adults, time seems to slip through our grasp uncontrollably. The way these lyrics intertwine within a moody blend of trippy psychedelia and fierce alternative rock, alongside a more layered and professional recording process, sees the band entering a new sonic dimension.
The Silver Lines are the fantastic Birmingham based alt indie rock band made up of brothers Dan and Joe Ravenscroft on lead Vocals and Guitar respectively, George Vivian on Bass and Kindo on Drums.
The Silver Lines were first formed in 2018 by the two brothers who said they were “uninspired by the current landscape of guitar music” and as such, decided that they were going to take matters into their own hands and make music of their own.
Later being joined by George on Bass and Kindo on drums, the band have gone on to release a string of successful releases being ‘Roamer’ in 2018, ‘Parliament’ and ‘Fallen Idol’ in 2019, ‘Breathe’ and ‘Skin’ in 2020, ‘Alive’ and ‘Delivery’ in 2021 and ‘Love Made’, ‘The Big O’, ‘Hotel Room’ andthe ‘SLEAZE’ (EP) in 2022 and ‘Blow Dry’‘Castaway’ and ‘Bound’ in 2023 . The band have consistently sold out hometown gigs as well as play support slots with the likes Buzzcocks and established U.K. punk band Ist Ist. They have also played extensive gigs and festivals in both the UK, France and USA and have had radio plays on the likes of BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 6 Music, Radio X, XS Manchester and Amazing Radio.
Fast forward to 2023 and being “repulsed by the notion of being just another ‘all white male indie’ band that sings of teenage love or rants empty pseudo prophetic quotes”, The Silver Lines set out to release new music that defies the genre and the peers within it. The product is a very self aware form of songwriting that covers many taboo topics from toxic masculinity, learnt behaviours from past generations, and explores personal experiences that connect with the listener on a much deeper level.
2023 has been a year which has seen The Silver Lines secure themselves as established artists on the underground punk / indie circuit in the U.K. They released two singles being ‘Blow Dry’ and ‘Bound’ both of which have been played on BBC Radio 6 Music, Radio X, XS Manchester, Amazing Radio and championed by BBC Introducing West Midlands and Hereford & Worcester. They also did a live BBC session showcasing their sound.
At the start of the year they did a 12 date UK tour (all 100 -150 cap venues) with Hope & Anchor, London, Audio, Glasgow, Bristol, Cavern, Exeter, Smokehouse, and Ipswich all selling out. This was then finished with a US tour (NYC and LA) with the second date of the tour Piano’s, NYC selling out. They also drew a good crowd at The Paramount, Los Angeles where they headlined both. Notable festivals they’ve played include Focus Wales, Stockton Calling, MosFest, Your City, The Alternative Escape and playing the BBC Introducing stage at LakeFest.
After being spotted at Pianos in New York by the owner of Focus Wales, The Silver Lines were invited to play Focus Wales, from there they were spotted by Jean-Louis Broussard and invited to play his festival Trans Musicales,France which attracts over 62,000.00 music fans. Following this they are now working closely with the French booking agent Twin Vertigo who are keen to book some European dates in April 2024. Also after catching the Focus Wales set, Dev Sherlock, senior programmer at SXSW invited the boys to play SXSW which is where they are headed in January 2024 which will be attended by 300,000 people.
In August The Silver Lines recorded a new EP which is to be released early next year. In 2024, aside from going to SXSW and potentially extending their stay in the states to do some more dates, the band will also be touring in Europe and aim to book an Independent Venue Week tour, along with releasing new singles from their upcoming EP.
Indie Revolution 