Caitlin Lavagna Releases New Single ‘October’

Oct 16, 2024 — Leave a comment

This year, Caitlin Lavagna has gone from strength to strength both musically and in her acting career. After the hugely successful release of her single ‘Gold’ which made her a BBC Radio Wales Welsh A-Lister for for the first time, Caitlin was invited into the BBC Studios in Cardiff to perform two of her original songs as well as being interviewed live on air. After success stints in ‘Turning the Wheel’ and a UK Tour of ‘Operation Julie’, Caitlin then appeared on the BBC Radio Wales’ Welsh A-List for a second time with ‘Pretty Alright’ a song about overcoming self doubt and body image issues and understanding your own bad habits and emotional trauma.

She has gone on to headline Rhondda Arts Festival, appear on the line-up for this years Gen Z Fest and Wokingham Festival, took on the role of ‘Mrs Gloop’ in Charlie And The Chocolate Factory at Aberystwyth Arts Centre and returned to her roots in Gibraltar as part of The Weekender line up.

About October:
“This time last year my career was bursting with excitement and opportunities were flowing. I was performing in a show I adored, finding new friends, traveling to new places and I had someone special, who I felt really saw me, to share it all with. Then, I was left completely and utterly ghosted, left behind and vulnerable. The song follows a year of being ignored by someone who I believed loved me. I suppose releasing it now makes it a cathartic song, attempting to take back my favorite month, a time for me. I want to take the listener on a personal, raw and honest journey of grief and unexplained loss. Quite simply, a brutal end to a beautiful connection.” – Caitlin Lavagna

‘October’ is a truly heartfelt and heart-wrenching song, sung with such real emotion. Caitlin’s voice is on point as usual, her best release to date, a true talent. ‘October’ is out now which will be accompanied by a stunning music video later this month.

Emily Marsden – Editor
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@Indierevuk
Indierevuk@gmail.com

Alffa Release New Single ‘Breathe Free’

Aug 19, 2024 — Leave a comment

North Wales rockers Alffa are back after a near 5-year break, ready to reignite the fire they lit with their 2019 debut ‘Rhyddid O’r Cysgodion Gwenwynig’ (Freedom From The Poisonous Shadows). Fresh off the electrifying Welsh anthem ‘Pwythau’ in May, they’ve dropped another bomb ‘Breathe Free’, kicking off a series of releases before they unveil their sophomore album in November.

Proving once again why they’re a force to be reckoned with, Alffa’s latest offering is a potent cocktail of punk rock fury and hard rock grit, channelling the swagger of Queens of the Stone Age into the powerful dual musicianship of Royal Blood. However beneath the blistering surface lies a deeper message; ‘Breathe Free’ dives headfirst into the internal battle we all face, transforming raw emotion and intense melodies into a powerful anthem of self-acceptance and inner strength.

“This song invites you on a journey of self-discovery, reminding us all that embracing and celebrating our true selves is the key to true freedom.” Alffa noted of the single.“‘Breathe Free’ is not just a song for us; it’s a call to break free from internal struggles and celebrate the power within.”

Hailing from the rural village of Llanrug in North Wales, Alffa are the dynamic duo of guitarist/vocalist Dion Wyn Jones and drummer Sion Eifion Land. No strangers to the Welsh music scene, their breakout came in 2018 with the single ‘Gwenwyn’ becoming the first Welsh-language song to surpass a million streams on Spotify. This success fueled their debut album, ‘Rhyddid o’r Cysgodion Gwenwynig’ (Freedom from the Poisonous Shadows), released in 2019. Their eyes are now firmly set on the global stage, aiming to break out of the Welsh language arena and into the international spotlight. This ambitious duo is poised to be the next big thing, proving that great music can come from anywhere – even a small village in North Wales.

Following the overwhelming response from their mind-blowing debut, Alffa found themselves slammed by a wave of personal struggles and bad luck, including COVID, that temporarily choked their creativity. Undeterred, they channelled this tumultuous period into their upcoming sophomore album, crafting a message of hope not just for their audience, but for themselves as well. This defiance stands out in the punk/rock landscape, which is often mired in negativity. Though the album delves into the depths of depression, self-doubt, and the search for purpose, it ultimately explodes with a message of resilience. Joining forces with renowned producer Gethin Pearson, Alffa push their sound further, transforming their struggles into a triumphant closing chapter. Consider this a 1-0 victory for Alffa – a testament to their ability to not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity.

‘Breathe Free’ is out now, whilst their upcoming sophomore album is hailed for release this November.

Emily Marsden – Editor
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The Montagues Release New Single ‘Gravitate’

Aug 19, 2024 — Leave a comment

The Montagues, the trailblazing indie rock band from North Wales, are back with their latest single “Gravitate”. This alternative rock opera track delves deep into the profound feeling of being lost in life, capturing the emotional turbulence of searching for answers whilst second guessing your direction and decisions.

Known for their electrifying performances and compelling sound, The Montagues have carved out a unique space in the indie rock scene. Blending influences from Nothing but Thieves, Muse and Catfish and the Bottlemen, their music resonates with a wide audience, creating a blend of nostalgic and modern rock that captivates listeners.

“Gravitate” is more than just a song; it’s an emotional journey. With intense vocals and personal storytelling, the track becomes a resonant anthem for anyone navigating the uncertainties of their personal journey. Despite the chaos depicted in the song, “Gravitate” carries a hopeful message, reassuring listeners that no matter how adrift they may feel, they will inevitably be drawn to the person they are meant to become.

The song’s dynamic tempo changes mirror the rollercoaster of emotions experienced when searching for one’s true self. These shifts in rhythm and intensity reflect the highs and lows of the personal quest for identity, making “Gravitate” a powerful and relatable experience for all who hear it. Gravitate is the second single from their upcoming EP release “Verona Act I”.

The Montagues have been making waves across the music scene with a series of impressive achievements. They’ve rocked The Legendary Cavern Club thanks to BBC Introducing, received National radio play via John Kennedy at Radio X with their previous single Juicebox, June 2024), receive regular spins from Dave Monks on BBC Introducing Merseyside, and have consistently sold out gigs from North Wales to Liverpool. Their reputation for delivering unforgettable live performances has cemented their status as one of the most exciting bands to emerge from the UK indie rock scene.

Emily Marsden – Editor
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Baby Schillaci Release New Single ‘The Anti Suncream League’

Aug 19, 2024 — Leave a comment

Hitting the scene in 2023, Baby Schillaci are swiftly carving out their position in the alternative Welsh music scene with their raw, unfiltered sound. Rooted in post-punk and noise, the band’s aggressive yet intricately layered compositions evoke comparisons to seminal acts like Mclusky, At the Drive-In, and Fugazi. Their music is a relentless assault on the senses that challenges and captivates in equal measure.

Baby Schillaci’s reputation has been forged from their formidable live shows with echoes of Nirvana, Public image & the Manics mixed with their own unhinged, visceral theatre. The intensity and unpredictability of their shows have drawn a devoted following.

Looking ahead, Baby Schillaci are set to release their highly anticipated album, ‘THE SOUNDTRACK’ in 2024. This debut album promises to expand their sonic horizons while retaining the raw, confrontational edge that has become their hallmark.

Known for their relentless energy and erratic performances, Baby Schillaci continue to push the boundaries of the genre with a track that encapsulates their unfiltered essence.

‘tHe AnTi SuNcrEAM LeaGUe’ is a tour de force, bristling with a frantic energy and instability. The track’s sharp edges and chaotic rhythms reflect Baby Schillaci’s signature post-punk aesthetic, delivering a raw, uncompromising soundscape.

The single’s deadpan delivery and poignant lyrics delve into the fake-news fragility of the modern age and the hubris of Ted-Talkers, Health influencers and dictators. The intense, discordant finale envisions a stark, Zapruder tape examination of what’s to come.

For Fans of Mclusky, Fugazi, and Nirvana

Emily Marsden – Editor
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Indierevuk@gmail.com

Snowdonia Records Announce New Signing Subterrania

Aug 5, 2024 — Leave a comment

Following on from recent announcements from the North Wales Independent record label and management, Snowdonia Records have announced another new signing, four piece, indie rock band from Swansea in Wales, Subterrania.

Fronted by Dylan Cai, the rest of the band includes Fin Roach (guitar), Jamie Tooze (bass), and Luis Hancock (drums). They have stormed their way across the Swansea music scene with their electric and groovy sound and are rapidly breaking through to the rest of the UK.

Snowdonia Records previously known as Yr Wyddfa Records recently changed their name and announced on twitter that they now have a Welsh, English & Scottish division. Along with recently announced Skäl and Box Of Trash, Subterrania will join fellow bands Holy Coves and Sister Envy on the newly formed Label & Management, creating a fantastic roster of bands.

Emily Marsden – Editor
#IndieRevolution
@Indierevuk
Indierevuk@gmail.com

Indie Revolution Single Of The Week – The Rogues ‘Oh Gena’

Jul 26, 2024 — Leave a comment

Indie Revolution’s Single Of The Week goes indie band from Wales The Rogues with their new single ‘Oh Gena’.

Welsh indie rockers THE ROGUES also release their video for new single ‘Oh Gena‘, new EP ‘1963 – Live at Rockfield Studios’ out now on Flip Flop Records.

After releasing 3 much-anticipated singles in 2023, The Rogues are back with their debut EP ‘1963 – Live at Rockfield Studios’, out now.

In October 2023 the five lads from Newport spent two days at the world famous Rockfield Studios in Monmouth, recording a number of live tracks with Nick Brine, who’s recorded with Oasis, The Stone Roses, Bruce Springsteen to name a few.

4 of these huge sounding tracks will make up their debut EP, which is being released exclusively on CD. If you’ve been to a Rogues gig in recent times, you’ll know these tracks are always a staple of their live performances.

You can Order the EP now for just £4.99 on Banquet Records or by searching The Rogues on social media and using the link in their bio. https://linktr.ee/theroguesofficial

Upcoming shows:
23rd July, Sidney & Matilda, Sheffield supporting Spirals & Priday
3rd Aug, The Rockin’ Chair, Wrexham

Emily Marsden – Editor
#IndieRevolution
@Indierevuk
Indierevuk@gmail.com

Keys Release New Single ‘There’s No I In Teams’

Jul 18, 2024 — Leave a comment

Welsh legendary psych-boppers, KEYS, return with a fresh and infectious new single ‘There’s No I In Teams’, taken from their forthcoming seventh album, set for release early next year.

‘There’s No I In Teams’ combines spikey surf guitars with Rock Lobster vocals into a feverish 2minute 15 seconds of new Wave perfection. Singer, Matt Evans, explains: “The emergence of conference calls since COVID has reduced our human relationships to pixels on a screen. Avatars represent ourselves online, while we stay indoors”.

‘There’s No I In Teams’ is a song about the need to recapture our humanity in the digital age. It highlights our need for the simple joy of face to face human interaction freed from the electronic walls that now surround us. The songs uncluttered and focused arrangement is captivating and the B52’s lean and pop mean harmonies makes this a bold statement of intent for the exciting return of KEYS.

Emily Marsden – Editor
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No Thee No Ess Release New Album ‘Distant Country’

Jul 9, 2024 — Leave a comment

Cardiff band ‘No Thee No Ess’ return with the announcement of their 8th Studio Album ‘Distant Country’ out now!

Described by Andy Fung, ‘Distant Country’ is a a journey on a wagon, a Waltz through the Country genre with an array of guest musicians joining the band around the campfire, including Gareth Bonello (The Gentle Good) on Banjo, Kate Ronconi (Lost Tuesday Society) on Violin, and Rhodri Ratatosk on pedal Steel.

No Thee No Ess is the long time collaboration between visual artists and musicians Paul Battenbough and Andy Fung.

Both have a high pedigree of previous projects (Derrero, Cymbient, The Cosmic Array amongst others) and they’ve come together to make their 8th studio album ‘Distant Country’ with producer and collaborator Frank Naughton.

‘Distant Country’ is ‘No Thee No Ess’ 8th studio album following on from 2022’s well received, psychedelic ‘Dimmer Switch’.

This album has distinct country hues and a laid back and dreamy feel whilst retaining the band’s signature aesthetic. The album has more traditional song structures and utilises more acoustic instruments to augment the songs but still has a nod to psychedelia.

‘Distant Country’ is ‘No Thee No Ess’ 8th studio album following on from 2022’s well received, psychedelic ‘Dimmer Switch’.

The album was engineered and produced by Frank Naughton and No Thee No Ess and recorded at Ty Drwg studio in Cardiff with wonderful guest musicians Frank Naughton – bass, piano, Rhodri Viney – pedal steel, Gareth Bonello – banjo, Kate Ronconi – violin and Sarah Passmore – vocals helping to elevate this work. The album reflects the band’s love for alternative country music which has always been present.

Emily Marsden – Editor
#IndieRevolution
@Indierevuk
Indierevuk@gmail.com

Tom Emlyn Releases New Single ‘Double-Crossed’

Jun 28, 2024 — Leave a comment

Tom Emlyn releases his new single ‘Double-Crossed’, accompanied by a video filmed by Sam Ffoto / Pypi Slysh. From his forthcoming new album Rehearsal For The Rain: Scaredycat, Vol.2, due for release on August 29th, 2024.

Welsh singer-songwriter Tom Emlyn releases his new single, ‘Double-Crossed’ out now. With tender vocals, introspective lyrics caressing a daydreaming guitar motif, and lo-fi percussion it explores the darker side of self-reflection to a stripped back Velvet Underground-inspired groove. Originally written and recorded in lockdown, the song features on his forthcoming album Rehearsal For The Rain: Scaredycat, Vol.2, due for release on August 29th, 2024.

The self-produced record is his fourth solo effort in the space of two years, continuing an impressive streak of creativity and inspiration. The single is accompanied by a video by Sam Ffoto – a series of photographs, taken rapidly enough to give the illusion of film, on a cold January day in Cathays Cemetery, Cardiff.

What is it that pursues our hero through these frigid spaces? Is it a stranger, a friend, or his own shadow? Explore ‘Double-Crossed’ and find out for yourself. A song that explores self-portrayal and small-town paranoia, but not without a sense of warmth and comfort.

Tom Emlyn’s fourth album in two years,Rehearsal For The Rain: Scaredycat Vol. 2is a self-produced, powerful, fully realised creative statement.The album will be released digitally and on cassette, with a launch show at the Moon, Cardiff on August 29th to celebrate.

In summer 2022, Tom released his debut solo album ‘News From Nowhere’, a bittersweet love letter to his hometown of Swansea, described by Adam Walton (BBC Radio Wales) as a record of “undoubted brilliance, eloquence and energy”. It has been positively received, with airplay and support from Radio Wales, BBC Horizons, R.E.P.E.A.T. fanzine, God Is In The TV, and Joyzine, among others. Tom’s second album ‘I’ve Seen You In Town’ followed quickly– a more mellow, acoustic affair which was also well received. He also released the ‘Scounger EP’ on Bandcamp last February.

His latest record follows hot on the heels of Return Journey Revisited: Scaredycat Vol 1, which was released in May 2023. In the same vein as the first volume, Rehearsal For The Rain gathers up lost fragments from years of songwriting and making music.

A dreamlike, lo-fi psychedelic bedroom pop journey, with elements of prog, blues, indie and alternative folk.

Emily Marsden – Editor
#IndieRevolution
@Indierevuk
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Indie Revolution Album Of The Month – Worldcub ‘Back To The Beginning’

Jun 7, 2024 — Leave a comment

Indie Revolution’s Album Of The Month is Worldcub with their fantastic new album ‘Back To The Beginning’.

Worldcub invites you on a jaunt through past lives and memory with their brand new concept album ‘Back To The Beginning’ a carefully crafted collection of tracks containing sharp hooks, joyous West Coast pleasure trips and contemplative stop-offs along the way. Beguiling lead single and title track rumbles through time and space, that opens up new worlds on the arms of a kraut rock groove. spacey guitar licks, splashes of keyboards, floating harmonies, the vocal interplay guides you deep into the mind’s eye of a melody, at once both wistful for a past and for a future of unknowns.

Worldcub, are a group from North Wales piloted by brothers Cynyr (guitar & vocals) and Dion Hamer (drums & vocals), they began their musical journey under the name CaStLeS, taking influence from 70s/80s Paul McCartney and DIY ‘Fantastic Man’, William Onyeabor. They produce material from their home studio on the hills of Eryri, splicing together elements of surf guitar music, kraut-rock grooves and hypnotic psych tinged Cymru vocal harmonies.

Through fourteen lucid and addictive tracks ‘Back To The Beginning’ journeys through wormholes, keyholes and time warps. ‘Grog’ is an awesomely woozy trip, fantastic surf guitars decorate a pulsing percussive tapestry, trippy and lilting vocals, it could be something lifted from the famous Nuggets compilations. Haunting ‘One Small Mistake’ with its lucid melodies, almost bossa nova rhythms and bouncing psych pop sound, is an off kilter delight. The album also contains previous single ‘Look through the Keyhole’ is a hypnotic, West Coast tinged, surf inspired jaunt through past lives and memory. The record also contains Welsh language tracks the gleaming ‘Hel Y Hadau’ and the iridescent entwined melodies, 70s fuzz guitar and insidious percussion of ‘Pwysau Yn Pwyso’ which translates as a Pressing Matter.

Their self-released, site-specific themed debut album Fforesteering gained coverage on major platforms such as The Guardian and UNCUT Magazine, with air time on BBC Radio 6 Music, BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio Cymru & Wales. The band also earned their debut performance slot on the BBC Introducing stage at Reading & Leeds Festival and found success playing shows as part of the ‘Horizons 12’ scheme; which included a recording session at the historic Maida Vale Studios in London.

After an extensive run of live shows, including festivals such as Liverpool Sound City, Liverpool Psych Fest, Farmfest and more recently BreakOut West in Canada and main support to Public Service Broadcasting at FOCUS Wales Festival, Worldcub emerge again with a new catalogue of material for 2024 along with band members; Calvin Thomas on Bass and Jasmine Roberts on guitar.

Tour dates:

No1 Harbourside, Bristol – 6th July

Emily Marsden – Editor
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@Indierevuk
Indierevuk@gmail.com