Hailing from the North Wales Coast, The Montagues are a five piece alternative/rock/indie band that deliver a layered, anthemic and melodic sound derived from a childhood of rubbing shoulders with holiday makers and day trippers from all over Britain.
Known for their driven melodies, powerful bass lines and infectious hook lines they literally embody everything people love in modern indie rock. It gives you nostalgic feelings of Kings Of Leon and their past summer releases.
I’ll Be Alright has high octane delivery, a force to be reckoned with. The chorus really makes the song come alive, it’s full of passion and emotion, melancholy almost and melodic to the end. The song has fantastic energy, one you can imagine hearing at a festival. It’s definitely a summer favourite!
The band consists of Jack Mayall (Guitarist), Jack Wells (Drummer), Oli Harman (Keys) and Kyle Parry (Vocals and guitar).
The band have received airplay on BBC Introducing, Merseyside and Wales.
VIVAS are the Sheffield based band consisting ofJames Wilson on Lead vocals/rhythm guitar, Tyler Savage on Lead guitar/backing vocals, Kane Ibbertson on Bass/backing vocals and Keaton Barker on Drums.
Although only formed in the past year, VIVAS have already achieved so much as a band bringing a positive and highly infectious approach to their music. VIVAS are a classic Indie Rock band that bring the energy and attitude in abundance making for some great music and some pretty high octane live performances too!
Live performances so far have seen them play to a sold out Sheffield’s ‘Sidney & Matilda’ and ‘The Leadmill’, and they have already embarked on their first UK Tour selling out venues in cities such as Leeds, Glasgow and Manchester.
In their first year VIVAS released an impressive total of 3 singles, being ‘Sweet Talker’ in March, ‘It’s Alright’ in July and ‘Feel’ in November. All 3 singles were received with a warm welcome from fans old and new as well as from press and radio from the likes of BBC Introducing, Amazing Radio and the Sheffield Star as well as gaining the band in excess of 40k streams on Spotify alone.
Following on from this success, VIVAS decided to make a bold statement move and to try something entirely different by releasing their own re-worked version of undoubtedly one of the biggest hits in mainstream music of recent years; by covering ‘As It Was’ originally by Harry Styles.
Following up on the success of this VIVAS are now ready to release their follow up single, ‘Out To Get Me’.
‘Out To Get Me’ starts off with echoing, almost haunting opening lyrics which are quickly joined by crashing rhythmic drumming as the track picks up pace. The lyrics are poignant and feel like there’s a real story being told here. The chorus hook of “It’s really no surprise they’re out to get me” is really belted out and is followed up with blistering guitar solos, making this overall a really anthemic track.
The band have said of the new single:
“‘Out To Get Me’ is a song that is all about suffering from anxiety. It is the most lyrically driven song we have done to date as it embodies someone who feels like the whole world is watching them wherever they go, and everyone is out to get them.”
‘Out To Get Me’ was recorded by the band at West Homesick Studios in Sheffield and was Produced by Federico Telesca.
VIVAS have already undertaken a UK Tour this year which saw them play a Sold Out show at The Leadmill Sheffield with The Lottery Winners and this summer will also see the band perform on The Leadmill Stage at Tramlines Festival and supporting rock legends Def Leppard and Motley Crue at The Lytham Festival.
All in all 2023 promises to be a massive year for this young band as they continue to make huge waves on the music scene.
Upcoming Gigs/Tours –
Bramall Lane supporting Def Leppard and Mötley Crëw.
The brilliant Four piece Indie Rock Band hailing from Glasgow are back with their latest single ‘Hear The Truth’. This high energy song is serious rock n’ roll with significant, relatable lyrics and a 90’s nostalgic feel. These are definitely a band to watch on the independent music scene!
The band consists of Shaun Kenny (Vocals, rhythm guitar), Mark Devlin (Lead guitar), Ross McDonald (Bass) and Pete Cannon (Drums).
They have been featured on John Kennedy’s X-posure show on Radio X. The band are playing the Recovery Connects Festival this year plus even more exciting gigs throughout the year.
MARPLES are the young Sheffield based indie rock band consisting of Joseph Neville on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Thomas Martin on lead guitar, Joseph Kneale on bass guitar and Luke Fieldsend on drums.
Formed in August 2021, the band started life by performing at local open mic nights. Realising they were onto something special, they then spent time perfecting their sound by gigging as much as possible and enjoying some prolific support slots as well as their own sold out headline shows at the likes of Network Sheffield.
In 2022, MARPLES took the decision to release their first official music into the world in the form of their ‘In The Attic’ EP which comprised the tracks ‘One For Their Own’, ‘Once More’, Misled’, and ‘Misfortune’. Both ‘Once More’ and ‘One For Their Own’ were picked up by Sheffield Wednesday FC and were played to the crowds during matches at the world famous Hillsborough Football Stadium.
MARPLES are now excited to be gearing up for the release of their follow up single ‘I’ve Been Shown’
It is a jointly composed track which is heavily inspired and incorporates the band members’ wide range of musical influences. The 3.34 min upbeat indie track is filled with jangly guitars and fast paced yet harmonised vocals from the get go leading effortlessly into the catchy chorus hook lines, which simply belt out that this is a classic indie anthem of epic proportions!
The band have said of the inspiration of behind the track:
“From first hearing the track in the early days from when we were writing it, I had the melody already in my head. I wanted to make the riff catchy to really make it stand out, so I decided to make the sound of the guitar more sustained, giving it more punch…. The meaning of the track is really all about the journey we’re on as a band and the trials we’re on as we try to make it to the next level. There’s always going to be someone trying to pull you down and tell you you’re wasting your time, but you’ve got to persevere and hopefully with any luck you’ll get the last laugh.”
MIKE STOYANOV is a London based rising indie singer/songwriter who, bluntly speaking, knows how to put a banger of a tune together!
The music he makes is a homage to proper good old fashioned rock and roll. Mike’s aim is simple, he makes music to make people feel alive. By combining influences from the likes of Oasis, The Strokes and The Libertines, Mike creates a powerful explosion of raw energy that will make you want to jump around in wild abandonment and sing along at the top of your lungs.
As Mike himself puts it: “my sound just punches you in the face man, and forces you to submit.”
Mike’s debut single “Star” was released in February 2021 and has been described as “alternative rock with ALL CAPS ON” (ArtistRack) and “the first song you should play when you wake up” (The Sounds Won’t Stop).
The follow up single “No Regrets’ brought with it more of that loud, punchy and unapologetic rock n roll sound for which Mike is becoming known. The opening line of the track is a statement of what to expect as Mike announces: “I don’t know what it means to give up, if I get going I just won’t stop”
2022 saw Mike supporting British rock legends Toploader at the O2 Academy Islington and releasing his third and fourth singles “One Night Stand” and ‘Everything You Ever Wanted’ which both respectively received great feedback from radio and press alike across the globe.
Mike is now back with his latest offering in the form of his fifth solo single release ‘On My Side’’.
This new release sees Mike upping his game once more as he further cements the notion that he is a name to be taken seriously and one not to be forgotten.
‘On My Side’ is an almost instantly recognisable track from its opening strumming electric guitars through to its indie inspired melody. The vocals are a pure gravelly rock and roll joy to behold as the chorus hook is belted out “Are you even on my side baby?” mix in some rhythmic drum beats and a blistering guitar solo half way through and you’ve got a proper belter on your hands; this really could be a contender for one of the top tracks of the year!
Mike has said of the inspiration behind the track:
““On My Side” is a song about a girl that likes to play games with your heart. She’s hot then she’s cold, she would make you feel like you’re the one then she’ll act like you’re no one. Sometimes she drives you mad and sometimes you hate her but most of the time you just can’t help falling in love with her.”
‘On My Side’ was Recorded at Buffalo Studios, London and was Mixed and Produced by JB Pilon and was Mastered by John Davis at Metropolis Studios, London.
VIVAS are the Sheffield based band consisting ofJames Wilson on Lead vocals/rhythm guitar, Tyler Savage on Lead guitar/backing vocals, Kane Ibbertson on Bass/backing vocals and Keaton Barker on Drums.
Although only formed in the past year, VIVAS have already achieved so much as a band bringing a positive and highly infectious approach to their music. VIVAS are a classic Indie Rock band that bring the energy and attitude in abundance making for some great music and some pretty high octane live performances too!
Live performances so far have seen them play to a sold out Sheffield’s ‘Sidney & Matilda’ and ‘The Leadmill’, and they have already embarked on their first UK Tour selling out venues in cities such as Leeds, Glasgow and Manchester.
In their first year VIVAS released an impressive total of 3 singles, being ‘Sweet Talker’ in March, ‘It’s Alright’ in July and ‘Feel’ in November. All 3 singles were received with a warm welcome from fans old and new as well as from press and radio from the likes of BBC Introducing, Amazing Radio and the Sheffield Star as well as gaining the band in excess of 40k streams on Spotify alone.
Following on from this success, VIVAS decided to make a bold statement move and to try something entirely different by releasing their own re-worked version of undoubtedly one of the biggest hits in mainstream music of recent years; by covering ‘As It Was’ originally by Harry Styles.
The band have said about their decision to record ‘As It Was’:
“The biggest inspiration behind recording As It Was – we wanted to cover the most popular song in modern Pop music and give the song a big Indie/Alternative Rock makeover. We were keen to keep the song’s recognisable structure, but give it a completely new lease of life by giving it a balls to the wall attitude that many Indie Rock/Alternative Rock fans can gravitate towards.”
Listening to the track, yes it’s got that instantly recognisable melody there, but don’t let that fool you as very quickly a much heavier and rockier sound bursts forth. The track rushes along at pace with a euphoric crashing of drums and some serious guitar riffs that’ll have you jumping around in utter abandonment. This track is going to go down an absolute storm when performed live.
‘As It Was’ was recorded by the band at West Homesick Studios in Sheffield and was Produced by Federico Telesca.
VIVAS are set to go on a UK Tour this Spring which sees them play a Sold Out show at The Leadmill Sheffield with The Lottery Winners and this summer will also see the band perform on The Leadmill Stage at Tramlines Festival and supporting rock legends Def Leppard and Motley Crue at The Lytham Festival.
All in all 2023 promises to be a massive year for this young band as they continue to make huge waves on the music scene.
Following on from the brilliant ‘Giamocs’ Hippies vs Ghosts release ‘Green Planets’, the sixth fantastic new album from Welsh experimental indie rocker Owain Ginsberg, hailing from Cwm y Glo in North Wales.
A kaleidoscope of instruments and unique sounds, this album has you hooked from the first track ‘Wrth Y Mor’ right down to the finale ‘Potions in the Morning.’ It’s full of free flowing music that has no boundaries, groovy and psychedelic. ‘Western Lie’ has to be a favourite for me. An epically atmospheric track!
Although Hippies vs Ghosts have released six albums you will only find two on spotify. For fans who want to check out their back catalogue head over to Bandcamp.
Lyerr are the Manchester based indie-rock band consisting of Ryan Johnson on lead vocals and guitar, Sam Greene on guitar, Rory Magner on bass and James Kershaw on drums.
In 2019 Lyerr were crowned by Virgin Records and Andy Bell (Oasis/ride) as ‘Manchester’s Best New Band’. They were flown by the label out to America where they headlined the legendary Roxy Theatre in Los Angeles.
The band’s debut single ‘Taking over’ was released in the summer of 2018 and led to sessions being performed live and filmed for BBC Radio Introducing. The follow up single ‘Fun To Lie’ was released in the Spring of 2019,and was crowned as the Song of the Week on legendary tastemaker radio station, Radio X as well as regular features on XS Manc.
The single release of ‘Ride Our Luck’ followed in 2020 and was recorded with the help in the studio from Andy Bell (Ride/Oasis). The firm fan favourite of ‘Doctors Orders’ followedin 2021 and most recently the single ‘Next To You’ was released in the Spring of 2022. All releases have seen this incredible band go from strength to strength gaining momentum and fans at a rapid rate as they continue on their upwards trajectory.
Following on from an array of sold out shows at the likes of Jimmy’s, Manchester’s Academy 1 and festival appearances such as at YNOT! Festival and gigging alongside the likes of October Drift, The Blinders, Shambolics, Hockey Dad & Sheafs, Lyerr are now back with their latest sure fire hit single ‘Changing Trends’
‘Changing Trends’ sets the pace from the get go with its fuzzing guitars and pounding drum beats coupled with the nostalgic 90’s inspired vocals. The sing-along chorus hooks will have you belting out your new found favourite tune at the top of your lungs. This is a track that is stepped in a rich musical history and yet still manages to be entirely fresh, exciting and brand new.
The band have said of the new single:
“The verses in the track hark back to memories of spending time in seaside towns in the UK and the memories of them ‘In 20 years this place hasn’t changed’ and reflects on how a lot of us have shared similar experiences. As the song progresses the lyrics become more reflective in dealing with growing up ‘Take a hold of your life just a little more, run it back, change the facts and the future’s yours’.”
The new EP from Danish indie rockers Mansfield takes listeners on a musical journey through conflicting emotions and a longing for authenticity.
On February 3rd, Copenhagen-based rock band Mansfield will release the EP ‘Come Rain or Shine’ as a follow-up to their critically acclaimed debut album ‘Star-Crossed Lovers’ from 2020. With ‘Come Rain or Shine,’ Mansfield gives a clear nod to British indie rock tradition while adding a personal and contemporary touch. The four tracks reveal a new experimental approach to sound and musical arrangements, as shown on the singles ‘Chasing after You’ and ‘The Sky’s in Love with You’ released in the autumn of 2022. Both singles have gained airplay on Danish National Radio and across the world, especially in the UK, Canada, USA and Australia.The songs on ‘Come Rain or Shine’ were written during the pandemic and in its aftermath. Lead singer and songwriter Christian Stage says about the process, “During that point in time, I felt an urge to deal with all the frustration and conflicting emotions in my songwriting. Rather than addressing specific situations, I chose in my lyrics to express thoughts and feelings on a more universal and metaphorical level. I think this will make the songs resonate with people.”
The lead track of the EP, the mellow and captivating ‘The Nature of a Troubled Mind’, describes frustration and longing for love and acceptance. With its compelling guitar riffs and poetic lyrics, ‘The Nature of a Troubled Mind’ speaks directly to the listener, as the lead vocal soars above the instruments. The music video illustrates the themes of loneliness and longing by using symbolism and close-up shots of the band.
‘Come Rain or Shine’ turns a new chapter for Mansfieldsince the release of ‘Star-Crossed Lovers’ in 2020. The latter became a turning point for the band and received 4-and 5-star reviews in Danish and international music press.
‘Star-Crossed Lovers’ was awarded Album of the Week on Danish National Radio earning the band consecutive airplay ever since. Radio hosts and music critics have compared Mansfield to artists such as The Beatles, Oasis and The Kinks because of their sound and anthemic songwriting.
Mansfield’s recent performances at The Cavern Club, Liverpool have marked their entry on the international music scene. In February, Mansfield will support British rock band All The Young on part of their European tour, as they have been handpicked by All The Young’s lead singer Ryan Dooley. In the past, All The Young have toured with the likes of Morrissey, Kaiser Chiefs and The 1975.
‘Come Rain or Shine’ was recorded, mixed and mastered at Black Tornado Studio in Copenhagen by producer Morten Bue (Mew, Iceage, Tindersticks, Kashmir). The EP will be available on all streaming platforms on February 3, via record label DME
I first met front man, Sam on my way home from a shift at work, after I’d stopped off to pick up a takeaway and we enthusiastically chatted about music whilst waiting for the food, he told me that he’d been trying to get a show at live rooms for a while, we exchanged socials and the next morning I checked out his band “Muddy Elephant” from simply a listen of their single “When in Rome” it’s obvious to see that this is a band destined for the fields of Reading and Leeds.
It has all the upbeat floorfiller vibes of bands such as ‘Catfish and the Bottlemen’ and ‘Two Door Cinema Club’ with a catchy hook that will undoubtedly have audiences screaming the words back at Sam. Needless to say I was surprised and elated when it was finally announced they’d be playing live rooms. My shock and awe continued when they were not only upgraded but managed to sell out the main room!
First on the bill for the night was ‘Match Fixing’ who started the night with a bang! With a sound that belongs on a Fifa soundtrack they had the audience engaged from the instant they got on stage. Next up was ‘Little Planets’, They had a brilliant pop sound with songs like ‘Circles’, they sounded exciting on the record and the sound really came to life live, closing the set with a cheeky little cover of Katy Perrys “California girls” were a treat to watch and need to be seen to be believed!
Muddy Elephant closed the night. It was incredible to see such a young and fresh band playing the main room within the venue, Sam absolutely controlled the crowd perfectly and the sight of friends and families beaming from ear to ear, crying with pride and singing back to him was truly a sight to behold from a local band. They could possibly be the next big thing.
Robert Joseph #MusicSceneWales @MusicSceneWales musicscenewalescymru@gmail.com
Indie Revolution 