Dead City Stereo - Band of the Week

Don't you hate it when you discover an awesome band AFTER they have broken up? I do. I also hate it even more when they are from the UK. I suck for missing the boat on this one.

Dead City Stereo hail from Exeter who seem to churn out bands (Cut Ups, The False Arrests, Brothers, Computers to name a few) and they play rip-roaring rock n roll punk. Sadly they split up a few months ago and i never even saw them. Jamie, bassist of The Arteries, was adamant that i would love them and i finally heard them last monday in the Van. I was singing along by the second listen. SO DAMN CATCHY. I remember all i said was 'wow' 'why did they split up' 'will they play again' 'can we make them play again' etc etc etc. Think a mix of None More Black, The Ringers, early Rancid and Down and Outs and you have Dead City Stereo. Jamie sent me through ten songs (all they have?) that they recorded before they split and ive listened to each song about 30 times in under a week, its that good. I got in touch with Ben, the singer in Brothers (who ill post about tomorrow) who was in Dead City Stereo and asked if i could upload the songs to this blog and make people aware and he said yes so here they are: http://www.mediafire.com/?jnn2gm04eym Gates of hell is masssssive. The guitar work is soooo clean and yeah i just love it. This really would not look out of place on No Idea or Kiss of Death.

I guarantee you will be singing and whoa-ing by the second listen!

I'm so bummed i wont get to sing these songs live. Im gonna work on a reunion haha i understand one of the members moved to Australia though which might be a problem.

Enjoy. RIP.

Koro - 700 Club Ep

Sorry ive been slack lately. Been studying tonnes and Watching Dexter. I finished Season 4 now so back to uploading rad bands.

Koro are regarded by many as one of the greatest hardcore bands to ever exist and have gone on to influence hundreds of bands you listen to today. I only found this out today but an original copy of this EP would set you back over $1000 pounds.

Formed in 1983 in knoxville, Tennessee, Koro quickly became the 'tightest, meanest and angriest' hardcore band around and when you hear their debut EP hopefully you will agree. There was a rumour that went around that they sped up the 7" to make it sound faster... gnarly.

This is my christmas present to you, their debut EP, one of the best and most influential hardcore records to ever exist and one of my personal favourites. I recorded this myself so you even get the crackle of the record http://www.mediafire.com/?ywkdmjg02hw This is insanely good. If you want to own this and their LP 'Speed Kills' Sorry State re-issued this classic http://www.sorrystaterecords.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=1
It may even sound better than the original as this features a brand new mastering job from the original source tapes. I only give you the best.

Killer

SAUNA YOUTH - DEMO DOWNLOAD

I started this here blog because Sauna Youth Made a myspace so its only right that i make you aware of the their demo tape which has just been released. Only 50 so email Rich quick to get in on this. In the meantime download the demo on their blog: http://lostinidea.blogspot.com/2009/12/demo.html Vacuous Idiot is the hit. Garage punk. Fun.

Dead Milkmen are FUN!

Super fun band from Philadelphia who ive fallen in love with in the last few weeks. Formed in the 1980s Dead Milkmen play super silly, stripped down pop punk and i dont really think they sound like anyone. Snotty vocals, samples, guitar solos, funny conversations and stupidly funny lyrics. Puts a smile on your face. http://www.myspace.com/joejackofdmm if you dug ssssnakes who i talk about a lot then you will see they like ripping off this band haha.

Here is a Greatest hits collection: //rapidshare.com/files/108266795/Death_Rides_A_Pale_Cow__The_Ultimate_Collection.zip

and the album that got me into them: 'Big Lizard in my Backyard' http://www.mediafire.com/?6b4wcy9zb9z im sure they wont mind! Enjoy!

This Music is My Life - Gig #1

This Saturday At the Guildford Youth Centre, Guildford, i embark on This Music is My Life Gig number 1. Ive had lineup changes, backline issues, 'dont let my parents know what im doing' issues but its finally come together and im very excited.

There will be 6 bands playing and the first one will be on at 7. The GYC is one of my favourite venues in the country so im stoked to get the chance to use it! Please Respect it and don't drink outside and leave litter. Thanks!

First band at 7 which will be My friends new supergroup band 'BIRD CALLS'

then

Me and Goliath http://www.myspace.com/meandgoliath screamo from Kent

Saturday's Kids http://www.blogger.com/www.myspace.com/thesaturdayskidsuk Dischord influenced hardcore/punk from Wales

Fashanu http://fashanudurham.blogspot.com/ Anthemic singalong pop punk from Durham

Teen Sheikhs http://www.blogger.com/www.myspace.com/proteensheikhs Beach Boys/Ramones vibe from Brighton

Bangers www.myspace.com/bangersbangers The best pop punk band in the country

Will be finished around 10:50 provided nothing goes wrong so you can catch last trains!

£5 in, ALL AGES and BYOB. Here is the postcode GU1 4LY. 5-10 walk from Guildford station

Hope you can make it!

ssssnakes/Bangers split

Wouldnt let me upload before so here it is in all its pop punk glory.

http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=e98c52dd8c4b03d190a82c7bb0fad7adf7eb10e3af90e7523e34c0a955f98962

Top 12 songs of 2009

I could not cut it down to ten! Download all 12 songs at the bottom of this post. Let me know what you think. They are in no particular order, that would be too hard!

1. Bangers: The Hard Way www.myspace.com/bangersbangers

When i first heard this song my first thought was 'Drop the Pop' by None More Black because it had an epic guitar intro. I was immediately in love. When Roo's vocal kicked in, i was drooling. Everything about this song is perfect. So many bits where you can put your fists in the air and scream your lungs out with your friends. They have yet to write a bad song and i do not think they will but this is my favourite. This song is track 1 on the Break the Habit Split 12". Buy it here: http://shop.specialistsubjectrecords.co.uk/product/0/Bangers-Break-the-Habit-Split-LP_994608.html YEAH!

2. Nomos: The Most Dangerous Game www.myspace.com/nomosnyc

One of the 7"s of the year. Ripping, crushing hardcore on Deranged. I usually give myself a dead leg from punching myself while listening to this song. This is the opening track and kills. Think Tear it Up/Cut the shit. Really good.

3. The Shitty Limits: Transitions http://www.myspace.com/theshittylimits

Track 1, side 1 of the Shitty Limits Debut LP. If you know me at all you will know how much i love/go on about this band and i eagerly anticipated this record. This song opens with a stomping intro which makes me want to smash through walls. The guitar gets faster and Louis' distinctive snotty vocals kicks in and im spazzing out. Pure garage punk magic. Buy The LP from this rad label/distro http://www.lavidaesunmus.com/ and the cd was released in the UK by Boss Tuneage, buy it here: http://www.bosstuneage.com/

4. Parasites: All the time in the world http://www.myspace.com/officialparasites

This song gets stuck in my head all the time. Its catchy as hell. Think 'Nothing with you' by the greatest band ever. They totally rip it off but who cares. Long live Parasites. fun pop punk songs about girls. Like the Descendents/Ergs then you will like Parasites! This song is from the LP 'Solitary' links to buy it are up on their myspace. Enjoy singing this when you wake up in the morning. Makes me smile from ear to ear.

5. Eddy Current Suppression Ring: Wrapped up www.myspace.com/eddycurrentsuppressionring

Another song that gets stuck in my head quite frequently. I love the dude's vocals and they way he sings 'yooooou' real good garage rock from Australia. From their second record 'Primary Colours' Order that and their first release here: http://ecsr.melodic.co.uk/ holy shit i forgot how good the guitar solo is near the end!

6. Twisted: Track 04 http://twistedleeds.blogspot.com/2009/04/twisted-leeds.html

FUCK THIS TRACK IS THE NUTS. Reminds me of the Wipers and i guarantee the chorus will be stuck in your head for months. I dont even know what he says but i sing it all the time. This is the one from one of the best bands ive heard in years.

7. Marked Men: Ghosts www.myspace.com/themarkedmen

Ghosts is Marked Men's forth and last :( album and it rips from start to finish. Total Ramonescore but done in that unique marked men way. This for me is one of the standout tracks but they dont really have any weak songs. All about the guitar and the electronic effects in this song. Massive. I hate this band. Please reform and play shows! Heartbreakers.

8. Spraynard: '84 Sheepdog www.spraynard.com

2009 was all about Spraynard. 3 dudes from West Philly who play Latterman style beats and do it really fucking well. I had the pleasure of following them around the country in the summer and putting them on and getting to know them all. I miss them dearly and all three are the nicest dudes ever. I could have chosen any song but i chose this one because the first time i heard it the chorus really got to me and i remember messaging the bassist Mark and telling him. I had to to get over a horrible break up this year and if it wasnt for my friends, punk rock and putting on shows it would have been a lot harder than it has been. The chorus to this song reads 'thank you my friends for taking me back to where i should have been all along, all the nights i spent alone should have been spent with you' Thank you my friends <3 Spraynard.

9. Fashanu: Yoko Ono v Bob Hoskins... Go! fashanudurham.blogspot.com

I cant remember how exactly but i came across this song on the Discount Records Myspace page and just fell in love with everything about this track and band. I listen to this song daily and it never gets old. I had the pleasure of putting their first southern show on and i was so confident people would love them and they did. This marked the first time i really felt i had achieved something by putting on smaller/unknown bands so thanks Fashanu. Song is posi to the max and they even high five during it when playing live. I guarantee after a few listens this song will be stuck in your head too! Gives me goosebumps.

10. By Surprise: CB Radio www.myspace.com/bysurpriserock

I feel i go on about this song too much but i say not enough. The last minute and 20 seconds of this song escalates it from great to OH MY GOD I JUST CAME. Seriously. I need to see this song live before i die. I hope you are reading this By Surprise! COME TO THE UK.

WHERE THE FUCK IS 295 WHERE THE FUCK IS ROUTE 55 WHAT EXIT WILL TAKE ME BACK HOME TONIGHT WHERE THE FUCK IS 295

massive tune.

11. SSSSNAKES: Dont Tread on Us www.myspace.com/thessssnakes

This was the first ssssnakes song i ever heard and my initial thoughts were 'damn! this is FUN' I get the guitar riff stuck in my head daily and often myself walking around punching my fist in the air and shouting 'hey!' dad thinks im nuts. The ending to this song makes me smile every time: 'we're the ssssnaaaaakessssssaaaaaa' RAD. Came out on a split with bangers, only 50 copies. You missed out. LP soon. Keep your eyes peeled, dont tread on them.

12. RVIVR: Plenty of time: www.last.fm/music/RVIVR

As soon as Shorebirds closed the chapter on their short lived punk story, Matt Canino had a new band waiting in the wings and they are RVIVR. This sounds like Shorebirds but with a female on dual vocals. It rips. I get 'GET YOUR ASS OUT THE FRONT DOOR' stuck in my head a lot. So much fun. Track down both their 7"s for a party in your pants.

Enjoy!

http://www.mediafire.com/?tyzym1qyhyg

Top Ten - Releases of 2009

In terms of releases, last year was loads better than this year, that said there have been a few cracking LPs and splits that i have not been able to stop listening too. Here is my top ten releases of the year starting with number 1:

1. SOCIAL CIRCKLE - CITY SHOCK

Ive talked enough about this band on my blog already so it fits for their debut LP to be my release of the year. It's also probably the one i was most excited about! If someone had said i would have seen them twice this year too then id have called them a liar. I picked up the LP at the Brighton show and listened to it non stop before the london show because it was that good. Fast, sometimes frantic garage/hardcore that makes you want to shout and dance. The reason this is number one is because it fuckings kills and is definitely one of the best hardcore records records ive heard in a long time. Im shit at describing/comparing stuff but if you dig career suicide, black flag then check this out. The European release was issued by Hardware records, buy it HERE: http://www.hardware-records.com/releases.htmrecords.com/releases.htm. First press was released by No way Records. Check out their roster and distro, its ridiculous! http://www.nowayrecords.com/site/?page_id=2


2. ARTERIES - BLOOD, SWEAT AND BEERS


This nearly pipped the top spot but i had to make a decision so Arteries come second, sorry boys. This is one of the best albums to be released in the UK in a long, long time. I'll be honest, i was not into this band the first few times i saw them. I thought they were boring and lacked any energy. This all changed when i went to one of my favourite places in the country, Swansea to see Lemuria and The Arteries supported. They. blew. me. away. It was like a changed band from the last time i had seen them. Super tight, really fast, incredible riffs and Miles the front man seemed to have let loose a bit and looked like he was really enjoying it. I dont know if it was just the home crowd but that night i fell in love with the Arteries. This was Reaffirmed the next time i saw them in london and this is when i picked up the album, coincidentally the next day they played in my living room and again i was blown away. The cd did not leave my cd player for months and is one of those albums you can listen to on repeat and air guitar too in your room. SLAYS. One of the best things about this band is that they are all friends, who hang out, go on holiday together and and are some of the best dudes i know, oh and one of the most DIY bands out there. Put on shows, release their own records, book their own tours and yeah ive kissed arse enough. This is fast, in your face punk rock. Im not going to compare them to anyone but if you like riffz, singalongs and songs about punk rock, cats and friends then you really should own this album, know all the words and go check em out live because they will tear you a new one. Ive seen them destroy countless venues this year and i can only see this band becoming improving further. Listen to songs on their myspace: http://www.myspace.com/thearteries Buy their merch and newly released shiny pink LP here: http://swfu.bigcartel.com/wfu.bigcartel.com/ and check out their real website here: http://thearteries.blogspot.com/ SWFU


3. BANGERS/SSSSNAKES SPLIT

Two of my favourite UK bands release a split together. HELL YEAH. http://www.myspace.com/thessssnakes play super fun and silly pop-punk in a Dead Milkmen/Descendents/Ergs way and are one of the most fun bands to watch just because Jamie the frontman goes nuts. SSSSNAKES feature half the Arteries and one of the funniest and drunkest men in the UK is on Bass. They only have this split out so far and it has four songs which are about ssssnakes, dead pets, people being lame and girls. Its total party music and i cant wait for them to record their LP. I listen to these four songs on repeat daily and i cant see myself ever getting bored so they had to be high in my top ten list. They have also nicknamed me 'Microphonehead' and have written a song about me so they hold a special place in my heart <3 Bangers also rule, more so than most bands! Ive banged on (see what i did there?) about this band on this here blog before but if you dig None More Black, Saves the Day and rad music then get on this. Incidentally two of my favourite Bangers tracks feature on this split. I would upload the download link and also a Bangers myspace link but it seems HTML hate both so ill try and do it in a separate post!

WE'RE THE SSSSNAKESSSSSSSAAAAAA


4. COP OUT - S/T 7"

Although 70% of these songs were written years ago, Cop Out are one of the slackest bands around so they only released this 7" this year. Bar a split with Fast Point this is their only release and its storming. Like Kid Dynamite, Lifetime and fast and dancey punk rock? If the answer is yes, you will LOVE this. Its amazing and everyone should own it. Tom the bassist has the most aggressive vocals going, gravelly as fook and bry is one of the of the fastest and funniest drummers to watch and if jonno is standing up and holding his guitar then you got lucky. Great bunch of dudes. They are splitting up and have one or two shows left so if you live up north go and give them a fond farewell. i miss them already. Buy the 7" here, only £2 http://www.myspace.com/thecwms
RIP. one of the best.


5. DEAR LANDLORD - DREAM HOMES

I get the feeling this will be in an awful lot of top ten lists of 2009 and rightly so. Definitely wins pop punk record of the year anyway. Ive loved this band for nearly two years ever since i first heard 'Three to the beach' on the Chinese Telephones split and its still one of my favourite songs. I stupidly missed them at Fest 7 and have regretted it since. Ive been waiting what seems like forever for the LP to drop and it really did not disappoint. The only problem i had with it was i had all of the songs on the record from splits, no idea samplers and demos so it wasnt very new to me. That said its a killer record and im positive if i had have heard this straight off it would have been in the number one position. Somewhat of a supergroup (Copyrights, Off With Their Heads, Houseboat) Dear Landlord play Fast, catchy, heartfelt and honest melodic pop punk with some of the best singalongs in punk rock today and some seriously snotty vocals. I really really cannot wait to see this band live, touring the uk next year! YES! Listen to them here: http://www.myspace.com/letslynchthedearlandlord fall in love and buy the record from this UK rad distro here: http://differentkitchen.bigcartel.com/product/dear-landlord-dream-homes-lp


WE'RE NOT THAT HOPELESS, WE'RE NOT AS FUCKED AS YOU THINK, IN SHORT LIVED MOMENTS WE CAN DO ANYTHING


6. TWISTED - DAYDREAM 7"

You know when you hear something for the first time and you immediately go 'yes, this is amazing' well i did that with Twisted. Their first 7" 'daydream' came out of nowhere and annoyingly im still yet to see this leeds band. Hopefully they will finally come down south next year and let me put them on. Incredibly catchy, dancey and fun garage/emo/punk beats like Rites of Spring jamming with the Shitty Limits with the Wipers watching. Track 4 on this 7" is the 'hit' and gets stuck in my head weekly. They have already released 7" #2 which i cannot wait to hear. They have had a few lineup issues but it seems they have sorted them now so i look forward to seeing what this band can further produce. Get on this, download daydream here from their website: http://www.mediafire.com/?kxgmvwzhkzy and buy the new 7" here and support a brilliant distro/label http://www.artforblind.com/ and get Daydream HERE: http://www.staterun.bigcartel.com/ pick up the facel vega split too, they rule.

7. BY SURPRISE/HIGHTIDE HOTEL SPLIT 7"

One of the best things about this year was Sean of Runner Up Records coming over with Spraynard in the summer and bringing some distro so i could finally lay my hands on this fantastic split. By Surprise are one of my bands of the year for sure http://www.myspace.com/bysurpriserock Ive now got hold of everything they have released and im in love. Like Braid, Promise Ring? LOVE BY SURPRISE. I need to see this band! i hope they come over soon. Anyway enough rambling. CB radio has one of the best endings to a song EVER which is the main reason this 7" made my top ten. 2009 was the year that i discovered twiddlemo thanks to Pags, Get Rad and Algernon Cadwallader's top friends on myspace haha. By Surprise and Hightide Hotel are two of my favourites for sure. This does not showcase Hightide http://www.myspace.com/hightidehotel at their best but their debut ep on the other hand is amazing. Get it here: http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?g4wodnddoqe That first song is seriously catchy stuff. So yeah if you do one thing this this year it should be owning this split. Buy it here and support Sean. He is a good dude. http://runneruprecords.bigcartel.com/product/by-surprise-hightide-hotel-split-7-pre-order

siiiixxxxx feeeet hiiiiiigh and siiiiixxxx feeeeet wiiiiiiide. RAD.

8. CLOAK/DAGGER - LOST ART

This is might be better than We Are which means this record is the nuts. I fucking love Cloak/Dagger. Had the pleasure of seeing them three times and putting them on in kingston. Lovely chaps. I have a brilliant picture drawn by Jason on my wall advertising Peep Show for sale. What a guy. Anyways this rips. The songs are as catchy as before the guitars buzzes and throughout and Jason has in my opinion one of the best vocals in punk today. Im listening right now and wanting to jump off my bed and dance around the room. Its total party. Listen here: http://www.myspace.com/wearecloakdagger ace rock n roll/garage punk for fans of Fucked Up, Hot Snakes and rad music. Buy it here. Jade Tree rules. http://www.jadetree.com/releases

9. DAVE HOUSE - INTERSECTIONS

Dave House is one of my favourite people. He writes incredibly heartfelt and honest acoustic songs in a Weakerthans/postal service vein and 'Intersections' is his third album. This is, in my opinion, his best too. It seems Dave completed a dream with this record and recorded it with a band and some of the songs are so Blink/saves the day which is something he has wanted to do for a while. When he called me into his room and said 'listen to the first song' i listened and at 0.55 seconds my mouth dropped and i shouted 'YES! THIS IS AMAZING!' Which is exactly what you are going to do. Go here: http://www.myspace.com/davehouse listen to lungs and get stoked. The whole album rules, stand out tracks being 'born steady' which showcases Dave at his best. Honest and vulnerable song writing and 'Runaground' is the pop punk smash hit of 09 and '60 Blocks up' is all about being on tour in the US. You should buy this and support Dave coz im sure his mattress is lined with this album... Buy it from Banquet Records. I worked there for over a year and half and it was a huge part of my life while i was living in Kingston reading (and failing) law at Kingston University. Dave also works there which is all the more reason to get it here: http://www.banquetrecords.com/BANQUET020;jsessionid=850EFBBC6E08C897B7D0A8A177FF08A2
Runner Up Records also released the LP so if you like records, pick it up, sweet bottle clear vinyl! Nice one Dave.

10. EDDY CURRENT SUPPRESSION RING - PRIMARY COLOURS

I'm all about discovering new bands and hearing a great band from Australia of all places was a pleasant surprise. This is stripped down garage/rock at its best. Great vocals especially when they become urgent and shouty guitar work is stunning and the songwriting is perfect. Primary Colours, their second records is so infectious i guarantee songs will be stuck in your head for weeks. Ive had 'wrapped up' in my head for months! As i said before, i suck at comparing bands but id say if you like the Wipers, Germs etc then check this out. Ive heard they are coming over next year. Cannot wait. Listen here: http://www.myspace.com/eddycurrentsuppressionring and buy the UK release of both the debut album and this one here: http://ecsr.melodic.co.uk/

Im wraaaaaaapped up in yooooou

So yeah that concludes my top ten. If you dig any of the bands ive listed please support them and buy their records and go see them on tour.

Because im super bored here is a list of everything that didnt make the cut but has still been on rotation all year:

Algernon Cadwallader - Hot Green: This is better than their album 'spit fountain is a hit'

Nomos 7" - this would have been #11. Raging debut 7. http://www.myspace.com/nomosnyc

Fashanu - Science is Awesome EP: See my post about them below!

Get Bent - Get it Dead 7": last record from one of the greatest bands ever. RIP. Fuckers.

Grown Ups Demo: see below

Hammers - Tape? I think it was released this year. If not who cares. Crushing D-Beat/hardcore in a Tragedy vein. Fucking killer. http://www.myspace.com/hammers625

North Pole Ep - Scientific Punk Rock. What isnt there to like! WE'll MAKE GOLD!

Nowhere Fast 7" - Band rips. Record Rips. Nuff said.

Cap Sante EP - Aberdeenmo. RIP.

RVIVR - Life Moves 7": Matt Canino (Latterman) goes through bands like no ones business. RVIVR sound like Shorebirds but better. Serious hits on this 7

Snowing EP - This should be in my top ten...

Spraynard/Captain we're sinking split - Its Spraynard. duh.

Wasted Time - Futility: debut LP from one of the best hardcore bands around today. http://www.myspace.com/wastedtimesucks

Marked Men - Ghosts: This didnt make it in my top ten because i hate the fact ill never see them. Pure magic. Ramonescore. http://www.myspace.com/themarkedmen

Slingshot Dakota: For reasons as discussed below!

Sedatives: same as above

Shitty Limits - Transitions: one of my favourite bands ever but i prefer the 7"s, sorry guys...

Parasites - Solitary: Descendents/Ergs worship. FUN. http://www.myspace.com/officialparasites

Shook Ones - AMH: i suck and havnt listened enough!

Urban Blight LP: Makes me want to punch through walls but i dont get enough time to raise my fists!

What Price, Wonderland - Its Shakey: INCREDIBLE www.myspace.com/whatpricewonderland

Sorry i got lazy there but im sure you are smart enough to find your own links!

Roll on 2010!

Lemuria - band of the week

As with 90% of the bands i post about in this blog, Lemuria are another of my absolute favourites. Lemuria are a three piece from Buffalo, New York and they are your new favourite band: http://www.myspace.com/lemuria

Think of a perfect mix of Weezer, Weakerthans, Superchunk, Lemonheads and the the most amazing dual vocal harmonies and you have Lemuria. Catchy as hell pop punk songs about love mainly and some seriously cute lyrics. If you cant listen to the song Pants and not think about an ex girlfriend/boyfriend then you have no soul. I first heard this band when someone sent me the 'kind of like spitting' split and i thought they were ace. They came over not long after that with the Ringers but were hampered by sound difficulties when i saw them so it was hard to hear. Nevertheless i picked up 'Animal Collection' on cd. A collection of all of Lemuria's b sides, demos, splits and records to that point. Ilovedit. Its amazing. It was obvious that Lemuria would grow in popularity but i never expected to see them play to about 700 people at the Fest 7 last year and about 500 of them were singing. It was insane. I was so excited to see them having learnt all the words but nothing could have prepared me for that. Made me smile from ear to ear. I actually love them. I saw them conquer the UK earlier this year in Swansea, London and Kingston and heard all the shows were incredible. I can only see this band getting increasingly popular. They just released a new single, 'Ozzy' which is about Sheena (the singer's) Dad and the lyrics are as usual, incredible. There are links to all their releases on the myspace so if you enjoy what you hear please please buy their stuff and support a very hardworking DIY band.

Because im generous here is a 12 song sample of some of my favourite Lemuria songs, Enjoy: http://www.mediafire.com/?y2zjyhmdnnm

Fashanu- Band of the Week

Fashanu are a three piece from Durham, England and are in my opinion one of the UK's best kept secrets. They play fast melodic pop punk ala Latterman, Jawbreaker and sound like Armalite in places. They have singalongs galore and some seriously heartfelt lyrics oh, and dual vocals so you know its going to be ace. I cant remember how i came across them but they had one song 'Yoko Ono v Bob Hoskins' on myspace for ages and i couldnt stop listening to it. Had this incredible singalong toward the end of the song 'Next time, we'll start again' Listen at the top of their page: http://fashanudurham.blogspot.com/ I put them on in Kingston to unveil them as it were. They went down a storm, people enjoyed them and most importantly i picked up their debut EP which rules. Gary, guitarist of Fashanu has kindly allowed me to upload a track from the EP so here is my other personal favourite from the EP 'Science is Awesome': http://www.sendspace.com/file/g0qho6 You can buy it from the band direct or at an upcoming show so check out their blog and pick it up.

Discount Horse Records released it which is run by Jon Fashanu (no joke) who plays bass. His distro/label rules and he is the best dude ever. Check it out/buy everything. Onsind are ace too. http://www.myspace.com/discounthorse

I love them so much im bringing them to the south again Dec 19th, this time to Guildford for a fun show with Bangers and Saturday's Kids and more. Ill put more details up soon. Be cool to see you there?!

watch this, support Ian, i love him: http://strikeachorduk.blogspot.com/2009/09/fashanu-yoko-ono-vs-bob-hoskins-go.html

Grown Ups

Grown Ups are a 'loud, fast, melodic punk band with noodley guitars' and they do it better than most. Residing in Michigan City, Indiana, you will find them in basements screaming and sweating and as with By Surprise below, im completely in love with this band. Listen here: http://www.myspace.com/ihategrownups

I hate to use the comparison every time but if you like Algernon Cadwallader and Braid and Cap n Jazz then you will love Grown Ups. So far they have one 4 track demo but that is long out of print and today they uploaded a new song that features the singer of Motion City Soundtrack. They are about to embark on a tour with Castavet (they rule too, download their demo on their myspace: http://www.myspace.com/romancastevet and have just signed to BSM records in the UK, LP out next year which im dead excited about.

Doyle From Grown Ups has kindly given me permission to upload their four track demo so here it it: http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=e98c52dd8c4b03d190a82c7bb0fad7ad6e5e58696618596ca2d0568e5b24962e

'Three day weekend' is the hit. Let me know what you think! Enjoy.

By Surprise- Band of the Week

By Surprise are one of my bands of the Year for sure. I cant stop listening to them. They are from New Jersey and they sound like an awesome mix of mid-west 90s emo ala The Get Up Kids and the Promise Ring. Listen here: http://www.myspace.com/bysurpriserock

The vocals are raspy, the guitars are jangly and the songs are super catchy. I'm yet to see them live and really do hope they visit our little island one day.

Dan from the band very kindly sent me some links for you to enjoy so here is a download for their 2007/2008 EP '478' so called that because it was a 4 track 7" lasting approximately 8 minutes, clever eh. Get it HERE: http://www.sendspace.com/file/yttl01 The ever so awesome Runner Up Records label: http://www.myspace.com/runneruprecordsusa run by Sean and Andrew, released .the By Surprise/Hightide Hotel Split 7" earlier this summer and on it was one of my songs of the year, if not the decade. 'CB Radio' has one of the catchiest last 30 seconds of a song ever. You need to hear this so here it is: http://www.sendspace.com/file/nvbnos By Surprise have the most beatiful and clever lyrics and just plain rule. If you are currently loving Algernon Cadwallader then i'm 99.9% sure you will love this. Get Involved.

Buy their records here, they often appear in the distro: http://sncl.collective-zine.co.uk/ if not contact the band and Runner Up Records.

'No, you're so much trouble'

Slingshot Dakota

Slingshot Dakota are a wonderful two piece from Brooklyn New York and they are great. Tom plays drums and sings a bit and Carly plays guitar, keys, sings and does everything else! They play beautiful twinkly indie rock songs about being in love and being posi but they are still punk as fuck. If you love lemuria, Good Luck, Algernon Cadwallader, Paul Baribeau, and Little Lungs then i can see no reason why you wont like Slingshot Dakota. Im in love with the vocals. Im gonna fall asleep listening to them tonight. Listen to them: http://www.myspace.com/slingshotdakota download their demo: http://www.ifyoumakeit.com/album/slingshot-dakota/demo-3/ and after that buy their new album, link on their myspace. Carly also does solo stuff: http://www.myspace.com/carlycomando. Their first release is out of print so check that out too: http://www.mediafire.com/?cn89ucsnqjw

'I'm gonna love this until the day i die'

Saturday's Kids

Saturday's Kids are a breath of fresh air to the UK hardcore/punk scene. Taking on heavy Dischord influences they mix post-punk and hardcore with a snarling, yelpy vocal. The result is real good. They come from South wales and are only 17/18 which is nuts. They also win the award for the most beautifully packaged cd i own. As you can see from the picture on the left, their is a lyric sheet, a sheet with a quote, im presuming to sum up the song and its all lovingly screen printed and packaged. Totally DIY.

I picked up their demo at a show as they give it away free so keep your eyes open in distros, definitely a band to watch out for. Until then, their demo is also up for free download here: http://www.zshare.net/download/6123700657716be5/ i highly reccomend this. Interesting stuff.

Men - 'Norwichmo'

Men: http://www.myspace.com/menoftheuk are a band i found thanks to a recommendation from a dude in the band. Upon first listen i just thought, this is different and i like it.

Hailing from sunny Norwich in the UK they are a three piece who play a brilliant mix of melodic punk ala Hot Water Music, quirky indie ala Devo and great dollop of Superchunk. My friend Pags just described them as 'Gruffchunk' im down with that.

The best news is they have kindly put a bunch of songs about 'sticking it to the man' up for free download HERE: http://www.mp3.com/artist/menoftheuk/songs/

THIS IS RAD. Thanks Men.

Ringers - R.I.P

Ringers are a four piece from Boston, Massachusetts who play gritty, intelligent pop-punk and have songs that get stuck in your head for days plus they absolutely rule live. I just read on If You Make It that their Fest 8 show last week was one of their last shows. This was news to me. I'm gutted. So this post is a tribute to an awesome band.

Im not really one for pop punk and feel free to shout me down but i really dont understand why people love D4 so much and worse of all people think im nuts that i love the Ringers but not D4 but oh well, thats beside the point. I just LOVE the Ringers. I first saw them in guildford two and a bit years ago when they came over with Lemuria and i was there for Lemuria. I had never heard of the Ringers before and to be honest was not that bothered. They were amazing. From the off i wanted to shout and punch my fist in the air, it was that good. Catchy, fast in the right places and loud, had a street punk feel to it and the singer looked like a football hooligan which added some charm haha. As soon as they finished i bought both their albums and listened to them non stop for weeks. Some of the catchiest pop punk id heard in ages. I was lucky enough to catch 'em at the Fest last year and having learnt all the words it was a party and again they were amazing. I was hoping i would get the chance to see them again but alas, no. Im grateful i saw them twice and will not stop listening to their albums. Curses contains back to back hits. Get involved. If you like Banner Pilot, Dear Landlord, D4, Leatherface then please please check out Ringers and fall in love like i did.

Check them out HERE: http://www.myspace.com/ringersband
Listen to a few songs from their two albums, 'Curses' and 'Detention Halls' HERE: http://www.1234gorecords.com/index2.html
Buy their records and merch HERE: http://www.1234gorecords.com/thestore/index.html
Watch a live video HERE: http://www.ifyoumakeit.com/video/ringers/dialtones/

This is lame but i just stuck 'Curses' on while trying to finish this post and got goosebumps.

RIP.

91 song mix

My friend Liam is recovering from an accident so i made him a 91 song mix of punk, hardcore, pop, garage, emo, screamo and hip hop. Check it out:

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=MCD01WWJ

Liam also writes some pretty good saves the day/lifetime/TGUK influenced pop punk http://www.myspace.com/liamclayton

The Snazzy Boys/Sedatives/Aggravation

I love discovering new bands, who doesn't! Just came across three rad bands. Firstly, an Italian band called the Snazzy Boys: http://www.myspace.com/snazzyboys From the name alone you know this is gonna be 80's inspired punk and thats exactly what you get. They remind me of The Boys and Marked Men and the Buzzcocks. Cant go wrong really. You can download a song HERE: http://www.last.fm/music/Snazzy+Boys and once i buy some of their records ill upload some tracks. You can pick up their brand new self titled debut LP in the sweet Crucial Attack distro here: http://www.crucialattack.nl/store/en/browse.php

The second band is The Aggravation from France: http://www.myspace.com/theaggravation the sound here is quite dark but its still upbeat and they remind me of Social Circkle in places. You can get two songs on their last fm page: http://www.last.fm/music/The+Aggravation 'travel for free' sounds awesome. If you dig this make sure you pick up their self titled LP

Canada really does produce the best garage punk band and The Sedatives are no exception http://www.myspace.com/sedativesedatives Hailing from Ottawa, Ontario the keys give an almost gothic sound to their sound. If you love the Tranzmitors, statues or marked men then you will love this. You can pick up their 2009 s/t LP on P Trash http://ptrashrecords.com/ i know i will be.

My friend has a new band

Two weekends ago while up in london i went with my friend Sam to his first ever band practice and i thought they were awesome. Not only this but the two other members in the band are, in my opinion, two of the best bands in the country. The drummer, James, drums in What Price, Wonderland: http://www.blogger.com/www.myspace.com/whatpricewonderland who are a loud, twinkly/jangly/punky, Fugazi-ish band from everywhere around the UK. The new LP 'Its true it is skakey' is ace. Buy it. Max, the guitarist is the ex-drummer of Twisted from Leeds. Think garage punk meets early emo ala Rites of Spring and you have a winning combination. Download their four track demo on their blog, HERE: http://twistedleeds.blogspot.com/2009_03_01_archive.html its one of my favourite releases this year and ive still not managed to see them live! Track four is the one. Reminds me of the Wipers. SO catchy. My friend Sam plays guitar in a Straight-edge hardcore band called Abolition: http://www.myspace.com/xabolitionx awesome bunch of guys who play really honest hardcore. You should go see them in london.

Sam kindly posted up some videos of their second ever practice and they already have three songs down! Take into account the sound is not great and this is a rough recording but please take a look. Definite algernon/piroutte yelp going on

http://www.youtube.com/user/elektraboogie#p/u/2/mhXr88rC89Q three songs recorded there.

I cant wait to see these boys live! Promising stuff. Track 2 is the one so far. that middle section rules.

Get Bent - Band of the Week

There is no question over Band of the Week this week. Not only are Get Bent one of my favourite ever bands (i like them more than latterman, yeah i went there) they also released one of my favourite ever records, the demo and the fact that they split up and ill never see them adds more mystery to them. To put it bluntly i LOVE Get Bent and after reading this and listening to their demo hopefully you will too!

From Ridgewood, New York, Get Bent are a four piece who play a latterman style of honest, dual vocalled, shouty melodic punk rock and its catchy as fuck. I cant put into words how amazing this band are so ill give you a link for their demo and you can fall in love the same way i did.

IF YOU MAKE IT is a free/donations album downloads website that features some seriously rad bands. They also have a 'Pink Couch Session' where bands/artists pop in to IYMI palace and record a song acoustically. Get Bent did one so you should find that. There are also heaps of pictures, live videos (some of Get Bent) things to read and a forum so definitely get involved. Here is the Get Bent Demo: http://www.ifyoumakeit.com/album/get-bent/demo/ 5 tracks of immeasurably perfect pop punk. This didnt come out of my cd player when i first got it and i was so pumped on seeing them at Fest 7 but then they pulled out and split up. I still listen to these songs on a daily basis, its THAT good.

Despite this band splitting up over a year ago they are still releasing stuff and last night their final release came out 'Get Bent - Dead It' 7" and ive listened all morning. It rules, as expected. If you love this there are links on their myspace: http://www.myspace.com/getbentson of where you can buy their, demo, demo tape, split 7" with Jean Claude Jam Band and the new 'Dead It' 7" so pick all of that up and support hard-working DIY labels Like Dead Broke: http://www.deadbrokerecords.com/ and Kiss of Death: http://www.kissofdeathrecords.com/ who have great output. You can also find it in uk distros just look around on the internet.

Get Bent has spawned a number of other ace bands so be sure to check out these guys:

How Do We Jump This High - the band that sounds most like Get Bent, demo available here: http://www.ifyoumakeit.com/album/how-do-we-jump-this-high/deep-stationary/

Thousandaires - totally awesome Latterman style beats super group, get the demo here: http://www.ifyoumakeit.com/album/thousandaires/land-seal-demo/

Red and Blue - catchy pop punk, demo here: http://www.ifyoumakeit.com/album/red-and-blue/acceptance-confusion-and-triumph/

Also check out: Potboiler, jonesin', state lottery and down in the dumps. All feature member(s) of Get Bent.

I still hope that one day i will get to see them. Kid can dream right?

RIP Get Bent.

Big Takeover III - 30/10/09

With the Rampart having just been shutdown there was doubt as to if this show would still happen, luckily some lovely squatters offered their home, a three storey building, owned by Barclays. It was an amazing space. The funniest thing about the whole night was that just around the corner was Hackney Police Station yet they did not disturb the show the whole night. A stage was built on the floor out of pallets and people started arriving. you had to knock to get in. Awesome.

East London's Methodist Centre: http://www.myspace.com/methodistcentre opened proceedings with their two drum kits, camp oi/punk. I thoroughly enjoyed this band. Lots of fun, very silly lyrics, 'does you girlfriend know you're here, does your girlfriend know you're queer'

Nowhere Fast could not play in the end which was a shame so next up was Skiplickers: http://www.myspace.com/skiplickers I'd been waiting a while to see this band and they did not disappoint. Bry was a sick frontman and those vocals sound like a dying dog. Nice.

Bryony who runs Big Takeover is in the Sceptres who played next http://www.blogger.com/www.myspace.com/thesceptresthesceptres It was great to see them playing again as they had planned to split up. Catchy garage pop in a X, X Ray Spex, Wipers vein. The vocals are shrill, the guitars are harsh and the songs are great. Good Band. God i cant talk about bands.

Having seen Social Circkle in Brighton a few days before i was looking forward to them again and i dont know if it was just the crowd going nuts but they seemed to crank it up a notch tonight. So fucking good. This band are one of the catchiest around and also one of the fastest. You really do need to own their new LP 'City Shock' Here is 'Vacant Lot' to persuade you: http://www.sendspace.com/file/anw1gz Said it was one of the best shows they had played and definitely wanted to come back to the UK sooner rather than later. They Played a cover, dont know what it was but sounded cool and after their set i found out they do a Kids cover which would have ruled, oh well, always next time.

I only saw a bit of the Wankys coz Sam and i had a long trek home. very noisy punk, sweet Reagan Youth Cover though.

So yeah another storming night from Bryony and Co. Thanks to her and thanks to Matt and his buddies for letting his house be used and a special thanks to Hackney Police for not shutting the show down. Great night, roll on Big Takeover 4!

The Kids - Band of the Week

Sorry i was a bit slack with last week's Band of the Week as i was away in london for the weekend so here it is, Belgian punks THE KIDS: http://www.myspace.com/thekidspunkbelgium

The Kids were Belgium's first punk band, starting in 1976 and releasing their s/t record and one of THE classic punk records in 1978. This is rock n roll/punk at its best. Think the Misfits but better (controversial?) fast, catchy and some seriously great songs. Ive uploaded track 1 and one of the catchiest for you guys to check out, 'This is rock n roll': http://www.sendspace.com/file/oi9iwt That song just makes me want to dance around the room. If you dig that then buy their 30th Anniversary reissue LP as its still available. Includes the first record and a bunch of demos, live songs, covers etc. This is definitely one of my favourite records and having found it in Tempest Records in Birmingham: http://http//www.temrec.com/ earlier this year i wont be letting it go. They still play shows in Europe so maybe one day ill get to see them. Lets hope so. Enjoy!

Listening Now: Cloak/Dagger - We Are LP

http://www.myspace.com/wearecloakdagger Cloak/Dagger's first LP and in my opinion one of the best releases of 2007 and one of the best hardcore records in years. This is catchy, energetic, the lyrics are angry and poignant and the vocals kill. Think a cross between Carbonas, Black Flag, Hot Snakes and Fucked Up. Incredible record. Get involved. I'll be nice, here is one of my favourite tracks from the album 'sunburnt mess' http://www.sendspace.com/file/6upcfx

HUNX AND HIS PUNX

http://www.myspace.com/hunxsolo Ive been loving this US band lately. Ever since i heard the hilarious and catchy as hell single 'You don't like rock n roll: http://www.mediafire.com/?wyqgmmqwwti

ive been hooked. Fun, cheesy, camp, party, beach boys, ramones and silly are things that come to mind when i listen to them. If that sounds like a good mix and you like music that puts a smile on your face, check em out. New LP: 'Gay Singles' just came out, you should pick it up. Its lots of fun.

Social Circkle and more, Brighton 26/10/09

This show totally lived up to expectations and was worth the ridiculous one bus and three trains, three hour journey to Brighton. I hate living in the middle of nowhere...

After the worst 'burrito' ever and mixing popping candy and coke (didnt work sam) four friends and i headed to the Greenhouse Effect in Hove. I'd been once before to see www.myspace.com/chrismurray play his unique brand of acoustic ska so i was doubley excited about this show as i knew how intimate a venue it was. As i walked in the first thing i saw was a distro and in front of it a dude was holding the Weezer Blue LP, i couldnt believe my eyes and walked home with that bad boy. Im so stoked haha.

First band to play was THE HARD WAY from Brighton: http://www.myspace.com/thehardway who i rather enjoyed. I cant describe/compare bands but check out their demo. Great guitar solo in one of the songs. No nonsense, no frills hardcore http://www.megaupload.com/?d=OPTE3J43 They said they might release a tape, here's hoping

Place was gradually filling up as TEEN SHEIKHS: http://www.myspace.com/proteensheikhs came on stage. This band were so much fun and reminded me of Lovvers http://www.myspace.com/letscommunicate which is never a bad thing. Distorted vocals, fun poppy guitars and immediately my head is bopping and my feet want to dance. Their debut tape is sold out but ill try and pick up any new releases. Check em out if you like stuff on the Fashionable Idiots label: http://www.fashionableidiots.com/

So two bands down and thumbs up. Next up were Liverpool's NOWHERE FAST: www.myspace.com/nowherefast81 who i have loved ever since i heard their demo http://www.sendspace.com/file/rp8zl5 Super fast, to the point hardcore in an SOA vein: http://www.myspace.com/stateofalert Fucking amazing. This was my third time seeing them and they get tighter each time. Top performance tonight, roll on seeing em again on friday in London. I cant help but think about VOID when i watch the guitarist. Please check out Void: http://www.mediafire.com/?z60ngnmzpel listen to that and then pick up the FAITH/VOID split 12" its essential.

Greenhouse Effect is really hot now and people await Social Circkle. Social Circkle are one of those bands i never expected to see unless i went to the US and caught them so i was stoked on this tour. They did not disappoint one bit. Fast, garagey hardcore with singalongs and stage presence to boot. Played songs from both 7"s, their demo and their new LP: City Shock and it was spot on. No one danced but the whole room was nodding its head. Im sure London is going to be a party.

Whole night was ace, nice one Ralph for putting it on. Its rare to go to a show where i enjoy every band on the bill and this happened tonight! London on Friday is going to be a lot of fun!

Listening now: THE BOYS: The Boys http://www.myspace.com/theboysuk Ralph who put this show on actually got me into this band. The Boys were a major part of the first wave of punk bands in the UK and the first UK punk band to sign an album deal in January 1977. Absolutely amazing keyboard heavy punk pop. Get their debut record, its just incredible.

Fest 8

Having been to Fest 7 in Gainesville last year and had one of the best weekends of my life i was so excited about going again this year. Alas a spontaneous trip to New York to see Streetlight Manifesto and having no job means that i wont be going this year.

I know a lot of you are so this is a special 'Fest 8' post, listing all the bands i think you should check out, the UK bands you must see and and a cheeky podcast thing at the end with one song from every band ive mentioned. Im not sure if it is happening next year but if it is you really should go. Imagine one long punk rock show with a bunch of your favourite bands, all your friends and enough pizza to eat and root beer to drink to last you forever and on top of that crazy warehouse, house, garden, parking lot shows full of covers and crowdsurfs. Fest is THE ultimate weekend.

UK BANDS:
There is a good contingent of UK bands this year and some of my favourites are playing. One being The Arteries: http://www.myspace.com/thearteries I confess that the first few times i saw the Arteries i wasnt into them and thought they were pretty weak. Over the last year they have become one of the best bands in the country, blowing any venue they play in the country apart and gaining a loyal legion of fans. Think 90's skatepunk with inspirational and sometimes positive lyrics with every song carrying a message and a long haired shouting/screaming frontman and guitar solos to die for. I can only see this band getting more and more popular. One of the most hardworking and DIY bands out there. If you arnt going to fest make sure you check em out live anyway coz they slay. Buy their debut album too: http://swfu.bigcartel.com/ definitely one of the best releases this year. Nicest dudes too.

Next up you should check out Bangers: http://www.myspace.com/bangersbangers another of my absolute favourites and again the nicest dudes. Think all the best bits of none more black and fifth hour hero with Roo's gruff as fuck vocal over the top. Band kills it every time and are yet to release a bad song. They recently released a split 10" with Brighton's Break the Habit: http://www.myspace.com/wearebreakthehabit who play Latterman-esque beats so you should definitely pick that up: http://thisonesforthecrew.bigcartel.com/product/bangers-break-the-habit-split brilliant record.

Other UK bands playing you should check out are http://www.myspace.com/apologiesihavenone two piece against me style punk rock. You wont see many bands with as much passion as these guys. http://www.myspace.com/thisiscalvinball are also bringing their two man melodic punk rock to Florida, download their latest album for free here: http://notshyofthediy.blogspot.com/2009/10/calvinball-live-fast-go-to-bed-early.html nice one Craig. More infection fist-in-air punk rock from http://www.myspace.com/okpilot Relatively new on the scene http://www.myspace.com/brothersofexeter will be bringing their own brand of None More Black punk rock too.

Bangers/Arteries/Brothers and OK Pilot conveniently released a split 7" to commemorate playing Fest so you should order that if you dig what you hear. Label has some great releases coming up: http://www.specialistsubjectrecords.co.uk/

My buddy Chaddock has started a live video blog which has videos of all the UK bands ive listed. Check it out because he is the best and the blog is the best. http://strikeachorduk.blogspot.com/

Im going to recommend you see the following bands:

• 7 Seconds: http://www.myspace.com/7seconds - Seminal 80s hardcore punk band from California fronted by the legend that is Kevin Seconds: http://www.myspace.com/kevinseconds
  
• Iron Lung: http://loresviscera.blogspot.com/2008/05/iron-lung.html Totally raging two man hardcore/power-violence. Blew me away earlier this year. Drummer is the funniest dude too
  
• Kudrow: http://www.myspace.com/yokudrow Jeff Rosenstock of BTMI/ASOB is in the band so you know its gonna rule
  
• Iron Chic: http://www.myspace.com/ironchicsmyspace Fun times melodic pop punk like Latterman
  
• Cheeky: My friend Josh would not stop going on about this band last Fest and said i had to watch them, im so glad i did. BLEW ME AWAY! Think Descendents meet Blag Flag with female vocals and you have the perfect formula. So much fun, so much party. They just split up and Fest is one of their last shows so please if you go, see them, they will put a permanent smile on your face. Jeff BTMI's free Donation based record label has it up for download: http://www.quoteunquoterecords.com/qur016.htm do it. Will make your weekend. They have an 8 song 10" coming out and then thats it. RIP. I'm gutted.
  
  Turkish Techno: http://www.myspace.com/turkishtechno more fun melodic pop punk. Dig Dear Landlord, you will dig this.
  
• Rehasher: http://www.myspace.com/rehasher in my opinion the best bits of Less Than Jake are when Roger, the bassist, sings. Rehasher is Roger from Less Than Jake fronting a pop punk band. Its RAD. They just released a new album so hopefully they will come over here at some point coz i missed them last year.
  
• Good Luck: http://www.myspace.com/wearegoodluck whole debut LP is massive. Features Ginger from One Reason: http://www.myspace.com/onereason so you know its gonna be ace. The boy/girl vocal harmonies are beautiful
  
• Lemuria: http://www.myspace.com/lemuria amazingamazingamazing boy/girl pop punk in a weezer/weakerthans/lemonheads vein. Get everything they have released. All brilliant
  
• Dear Landlord: http://www.myspace.com/letslynchthedearlandlord One of favourite current pop punk bands. From when i picked up the Chinese Telephones split a year and a half ago and 'three to the beach' came on i was hooked. Dear Landlord do it better than everyone else, incredibly hooks, raspy vocals and music that puts a smile on your face. Im gutted im missing them to be honest. Come to the UK chaps.
  
• Banner Pilot: http://www.myspace.com/bannerpilot Used to be my favourite pop punk band but Dear Landlord have taken that spot. Banner Pilot's first EP 'Pass the Poison' was the epitome of fast, fast, hooky pop punk but since this released they have become polished and the songs have become longer and ive lost interest. The EP though will always be amazing. If you like D4 you will love this band, especially the new album ' Collapser' Touring the UK next year.
  
• Cloak/Dagger: http://www.myspace.com/wearecloakdagger I had the pleasure of putting this band on early this year and they were everything i expected and more. Carbonas meets hot snakes meets black flag fun hardcore. They have a new LP coming out. It rules.
  
• Algernon Cadwallader: www.myspace.com/algernoncadwallader Shouty Cap n Jazz twiddly indie punk with their own unique spin on it. Such a good band.
  
• Little Lungs: http://www.myspace.com/littlelungsnynj fun, sweet, rockin' female fronted pop punk.
  
• Ringers: http://www.myspace.com/ringersband Everytime i listen to the Ringers i remember how much i love them. Amazingly catchy and great gruff pop punk. Get into it. Bassist looks like Sideshow Bob too.
  
• Wormburner: http://www.myspace.com/wormburneryo More fun melodic gruff punk. Like Get Bent, Iron Chic etc you will dig this
  
• Shook Ones: http://www.myspace.com/wormburneryo I cant put in words how good this band are. Just go and see them. Seriously.
  
• Vicious Fishes: http://www.myspace.com/environmentalyouthcrunch Was Environmental Youth Crunch, they changed their name but still rule. Jawbreaker style fun with songs about bike rides.
  
• Ampere: http://www.myspace.com/amperepunx I'm an idiot and only recently got into this band. They are incredible. post punk screamo. Ragin'
  
• Comadre: http://www.myspace.com/comadre Again only just got into this band. Angry as hell hardcore with time changes and cool bits. I really dont know what im talking about.
  
  Deep Sleep: http://www.myspace.com/deepsleepmusic Without a doubt one of my current favourite hardcore punk bands. Think an angrier, faster descendents. Sooooo goooooood. Touring the UK next year. Im stoked.
  
• 1994! http://www.myspace.com/1994theband Awesome twiddly, shouty punk/screamo
  
  STEVE'S FEST MIXTAPE: http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=f19e78d06547c89f24a64199ac7f73e5e04e75f6e8ebb871
  
  ENJOY. Bring me back presents please

Social Circkle - Band of the Week

Every week im going to try and keep a 'Band of the Week' and this week it has to be massachusetts' very own SOCIAL CIRCKLE. Basically this band fucking rips. Fast, snotty american 80's hardcore revival. I suck at describing bands so i'll let their demo do the talking: http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?lyzlzumnvtc Since this they have released two 7"s: 'Static eyes' and 'i've got afflictions' and just released their debut LP 'City Shock' which is one of my favourite releases this year for sure. The best thing about this band right now is starting this coming monday they are on a mini UK tour! if you like what you hear please please go and see them, i doubt you will get the chance again any time soon. They are hitting up the following places:

Monday 26th - The Greenhouse Effect, Brighton w/ Nowhere Fast, The Hard Way, Teen Sheiks
Tuesday 27th - Royal Park Cellars, Leeds w/ Nowhere Fast, Dogfight
Wednesday 28th - The 13th Note, Glasgow
Thursday 29th - Next To Nowhere, Liverpool w/ Hot Club De Paris, Nowhere Fast, Bow and Arrow
Friday 30th - "The Big Takeover III": Lower Clapton Road, London w/ The Wankys, Methodist Centre + more

Friday is basically gonna slay: Everyone should come, http://www.bigtakeover.co.uk/

Lineup is all kinds of good.

Nowhere Fast http://www.myspace.com/nowherefast81 are one of my favourite UK bands. Totally raging and fast hardcore from liverpool in an SOA vein. Download their demo for free here: http://www.sendspace.com/file/rp8zl5

Skiplickers http://www.myspace.com/skiplickers are a band ive wanted to catch for ages. Dirty D beat crust from Sheffield featuring Bry from one of the best lifetime/kid dynamite rip off bands money can buy, Cop Out http://www.myspace.com/thecwms If you have sense, buy the 7". Its ace.

Sceptres www.myspace.com/thesceptresthesceptres are fun time garage punk in an X, X Ray Spex vein and i was sad tro hear they had split up but obviously they havnt which is brilliant news. Bryony who sings for Sceptres is putting the show on so go and support an awesome all ages DIY show.

Im excited for the other supports as ive not heard either. Ill review the show and let you know how it was. Makes up for missing the Fest this year anyway!

So yeah check out Social Circkle, go catch em live, pick up their LP and support DIY shows.

Listening now: Jurassic 5 www.myspace.com/jurassic5 hip hop innit.

Bonestorm

Bonestorm are a new band from Leeds and i had the pleasure of seeing them in the summer at a fun all dayer. The band features members who have all been in/are in the following bands: Current / Ex - Closure, Cutting Class, FKAS, Grand March, Normal Man, Omerta, The Osterman Weekend, Pure Graft, Sick-Fuckin-O, UYA, Whores Whores Whores. You should check em all out.

They just recorded and have kindly put their first EP up for free download so check it out. If you dig Iron Lung stuff you will dig this. There name rules too. Download the EP here: http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=62b04e55345b95d575a4fc82078ae6c8e04e75f6e8ebb871

Listening Now: Tranzmitors http://www.myspace.com/thetranzmitors More super fun, bouncey power pop from Canada which seems to produce the best! If this doesn't put a smile on your face you have no soul