Who Knows What To Say?

Conduit - Funeral For A Friend

Following their 2011 release Welcome Home Armageddon, Funeral For A Friend’s latest effort sees them return to their musical roots with a sound that is reminiscent of their earlier post-hardcore sound. Whilst bearing a striking resemblance to their previous material, Conduit does contain elements that sees the band readily embrace their inner punk; a fresh and somewhat fun addition to their heavy hardcore sound.

     Opening track ‘Spine’ kicks off the album and with its inescapable aggressive energy and driving guitars it immediately sets the tone for the record. ‘The Distance’ maintains the vigour of the previous track, whilst displaying elements of pop-punk that offer some light relief in amongst the aggression. The lead single ‘Best Friends and Hospital Beds’ is certainly one of the most impressive tracks on the album, along with songs ‘Nails’ and ‘Travelled’ through their blend of powerful, hard-hitting melodic chorus lines. The vocals of singer Matthew Davies-Kreye are delivered with a forceful anger and aggressive grit which is undeniable captivating to listen to. Indeed, this album is certainly performed with true passion that makes you want to sit up and take note. Although the relentless fury displayed on Conduit is not exactly what you’d call ‘easy listening’; it’s an album that simply demands to be played loud thus lending itself perfectly for a live setting.

     With its fast-paced, unstoppable rhythm combined with its infection energy Conduit is certainly exciting and captivating to listen to. Indeed, the album doesn’t slow down from start to finish; it’s relentless and its raging drive promises it will deliver in a live setting. Although, despite its solid and consistent sound that are undeniable exciting to start with, the album’s lack of variation can cause it to feel a bit dull and repetitive. The distinct lack of slower, less aggressive songs would have provided the album with some much needed respite and would have perhaps given it a bit more depth. The melodic choruses are the only form of relief listeners are offered to temper the aggression. However, the unstoppable urgency does lend the record a certain charm, depicting a band who are charged with enthusiasm and youthful energy. Conduit is an album with true grit which certainly packs the punch – but be wary, it’s not for the faint hearted.

Forever, Instead

Forever, Instead EP - Dropout Dan

Following the release of his first official EP Do You Remember?, Dropout Dan has returned with his latest effort Forever, Instead, With its acoustic-folksy sound, the EP comes as a breath of fresh air from the general auto-tuned pop which forever dominates the charts. Indeed, the EP has a unique and quite distinctive sound that is something of a hybrid between acoustic folk and punk; a sound closely reminiscent to the likes of fellow British artist Frank Turner. The songs are very well-crafted, whilst singer Daniel O’Dell perfectly showcases his talent for emotive and heartfelt song writing, showcased particularly in the songs ‘Sentimental’ and ‘Like The Stars.’ Opening track ‘Oh, Little Red’ effectively displays the singer’s talent for lyrical storytelling and poetic prowess. The songs ‘Puppy Fat’ and ‘The Sound of Faking’ are arguably the stand out tracks due to their markedly upbeat feel and greatest musical experimentation, although there really isn’t a bad track on this EP.

     Musically Forever, Instead displays a very consistent sound; if you enjoyed one song you are more than likely to enjoy the rest of the EP. Although due to its lack of musical variation and experimentation with different sounds the songs can start to feel slightly repetitive after a couple of plays. However, there is an undeniable and inescapable charm to this EP which comes as a result of singer Daniel’s talent for storytelling through his emotive and heartfelt lyrics. Indeed, Forever, Instead certainly displays great musical potential.

**As seen in The Motion Online**

Dogs Eating Dogs

Dogs Eating Dogs EP - Blink-182

Following the release of their 2011 reunion album Neighbourhoods, Blink-182 are back with a new 5 track EP Dogs Eating Dogs. Much like their last release, the EP retains the same mature sound of the ‘new’ Blink; no frills, no spills and a distinct lack of their usual tongue-in-cheek humorous lyrics. Despite a promising start with opening track ‘When I Was Young’, which is arguably the most reminiscent of their classic pop-punk sound with its fast pace and energetic rhythm, the energy fails to be maintained, often tailing off towards the end of each song. The title track ‘Dogs Eating Dogs’ does offer some liveliness to the record, although the repetition of the chorus line “dogs, dogs eating dogs, dogs eating” does become rather irritating after a couple of plays. ‘Boxing Day’ is arguably the best and most stand-out track on the EP. It is the only acoustic number and so it brings a different tone and pace to the record, whilst it is certainly the most catchy and interesting to listen to, showing a different side to the usually rambunctious Blink. Closing song ‘Pretty Little Girl’ picks up the pace again with its particularly lively chorus, although sadly the track is ruined by the guest rap from Yelawolf (a particular low point of this EP) towards the songs end which couldn’t be more out of place. The inclusion of a rap just doesn’t seem to fit in with the rest of the song, leaving you wondering why it was included – suffice to say the song would be much stronger without it.

     On the whole, Dogs Eating Dogs is not a particularly bad record; it’s just not particularly great either. The weaving between fast and slow pace makes the record feel slightly disjointed and lacking in vibrancy, whilst the lyrics within a few of the tracks become irritatingly repetitive. Indeed the whole EP seems to become overly consumed with synthesisers and instrumental sections that, whilst they are melodic, fail to pack the punch. The guitars seem to be lost as a result leaving the EP distinctly lacking the vivacity of their exuberant glory days. Whilst Blink have produced a more mature record and are clearly experimenting with a new sound, the effect is less than satisfying resulting in an EP that is sadly more reminiscent of Angels & Airwaves album. Perhaps Blink are still trying to harness and fully establish their new sound, but this latest effort fails to stir excitement. It’s by no means terrible; it’s just a bit mediocre.

**As seen in The Motion Online**

Dance Dance Revolution

Sweat the alphabet and dance the digits: come join the revolution!

It’s about that time of year when most of us (except those who are unfairly in perfect shape or have resolutely decided that they don’t care) are making a desperate attempt to shimmy our bodies into shape and get ourselves fit, so as to not look like a humongous beached whale in our bikinis this summer! The run down to summer usually follows the same pattern: we set out with the best intentions of doing regular exercise and eating better, and of course saying ‘no thank you’ to that huge slice of cake that keeps calling to you from the depths of your kitchen cupboards. But sticking to this devotion to ‘being good’ isn’t always as easy as it seems. After the aches and pains set in, and the realisation that broccoli just doesn’t compare to chocolate, it becomes oh so easy to pack everything in and decide you would rather stay as you are – it’s much less work really.

     But getting into shape doesn’t have to be this monotonous, drudging effort. It can in fact… dare I say it…be fun. Allow me to introduce you to Bokwa. Bokwa is an innovative dance fitness program that uses American Hand Sign Language and Bokwa Hand Signs to teach the steps which are specially designed using letters and numbers. All you have to do is follow the signal and dance the letter or number accordingly; it’s that simple – even for the uncoordinated and those who suffer from an unfortunate case of two-left-feet-syndrome! Bokwa is an intense cardiovascular workout that is fun, energetic and offers a range of intensities making it suitable for every fitness level. It’s certainly a far cry from those tedious circuits around the gym, or that laborious five mile run. With its upbeat music, fun and easy to follow dance steps, and its undeniable energy, Bokwa is an exercise regime you will want to keep doing…it really is that fun!

     So if you’re looking to get yourself into shape for your summer holiday, or you’re simply searching for a bit more variety in your fitness program, why not give Bokwa a try and dance yourself to a “healthier, more energetic and happier you!” Get down to a class and dance the alphabet and sweat the digits! Once you’ve tried it, you won’t look back (and you’ll no longer have to pretend that you’re happy with those jiggley bits!).

Here’s a short video that shows you just what this new fitness craze is all about:

Find a class near you here and come join the revolution!

Don't Speak, Don't Think, Just Mess Me Up

Motion City Soundtrack - The Ruby Lounge 20/4/11


Okay, so I haven't had chance to write a proper review of Motion City Soundtrack's latest show but I just wanted to share a few pictures and thoughts because they are awesome and I had a great time. The band came to play Manchester after this city won the bidding war in the competition set up by the band (or as Justin Pierre described it, a sort of 'reality contest!')meaning the place was packed with some of the band's most loyal and enthusiastic fans, which all in all added up to a great atmosphere and a great show!


Here are a few pictures from the night:

Jesse Johnson and Tony Thaxton

Justin Pierre (Looking a bit frightened!)

Justin Pierre and Matt Taylor

So after a night of great music including all the favourites, particularly A Lifeless Ordinary (Need A Little Help), Make Out Kids, and Even If It Kills Me I left feeling upbeat with a big smile on my face...fuelled by the fact that the band showcased their new single True Romance (an exciting hint at what is to come on the new album Go), and of course meeting Justin for a third time outside the venue where he happily signed an autograph and posed for a picture. Swell guy! :)

Can't wait for their new album, I have no doubt it will be fab! If you haven't already, go have a listen to their music...because you're missing out ;)

We're All Fools And Worthless Liars

The Cockpit Leeds 21/4/12

With a completely sold out show ahead of them, it is evident that Deaf Havana are moving up in the world – and if their latest album is anything to go by, it is clear to see why. The largest room in The Cockpit was full to bursting, as fans swarmed together in a bid to get as near as possible to the front. As the band made their way to the stage, they were greeted by an eruption of cheers and screams from the ecstatic and adoring crowd, making it difficult for lead singer James Veck-Gilodi to wipe the huge smile off his face.

     The set kicked off with the forceful and energetic Leeches, sending the crowd into a po-going frenzy and prompting a breakout of synchronised clapping – let’s just say the atmosphere in the room was far from dull. The band then effortlessly weaved their way into tracks The World Or Nothing and Right Now I’m Anyone’s, before taking a breather to address the fans. Singer James Veck-Gilodi wasted no time in expressing his excitement to be back in Leeds, and was seemingly delighted to be playing a much larger venue than on previous visits to the city. His cheeky charisma kept fans entertained in between songs whilst he revealed the band would be returning later in the year, again in a much bigger venue, so it’s fair to say that these guys are definitely doing something right.

     The band continued the set with the anthemic I Will Try, an undeniable crowd pleaser that prompted a mass sing-a-long, followed by older hits Another Day In This House and Friends Like These.  The majority of the songs, however, were taken from the latest album Fools And Worthless Liars, with songs Anemophobia and Little White Lies being received with particularly fervent enthusiasm as fans practically snatched the words from singer James leaving him to simply look on in amazement. The set closed with the irresistibly catchy The Past Six Years and Fifty Four leaving the band to go out on a high knowing that their new album has gone down an absolute storm. Keep a look out for these guys; they’re definitely ones to watch.


**As seen in The Motion Online**

Check out some videos from the show:

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