this music is my life

Holy (Italy)

2012-01-24T05:59:00.000-08:00

Last week i received a text from Dan of Hammers fame (they are back, believe) asking me if i wanted to put on this band called HOLY from Italy, he said it would be up my street. I listened, thirty seconds in i text daniel back, said it was great and then booked a venue. Holy are fucking raging. This is fast hardcore/scrEMO and definitely relevant to my interests. They list their influences as His Hero is Gone and infest and in pictures ive seen em wearing Government Warning and Kid Dynamite t shirts if that gives you more of a reason to check em out. There is a link below for their debut self titled EP which is excellent and about 8 mins long. holy shit. One of the members is in another great Italian band called Verme who did a split with Human Hands and they happen to be over in the uk this week. Playing Catch in Dalston this Saturday if any of you london types are at a loose end. Great support too: Ten Speed Bicycle, Bird Calls and Well Wisher.

This is fast, heavy, chaotic and angry hardcore punk with a message and their first record makes you take notice. Cannot wait to see them live, going to be intense. Holy are over here in May, Im putting them on May 3rd at the Black Heart pub in Camden, support to be announced. Its going to be the best thursday night you never had.

http://www.mediafire.com/?b75w3jok9jfhdj4

2011-08-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

I'm Stranded is arguably one of the greatest punk records of all time and we have Australia's 'The Saints' to thank for that one. Formed in 1974 in Brisbane they described themselves as 'a punk group before it was fashionable' pre dating many key uk punk records. They received much criticism for their live show but this record and the follow up 'eternally yours' featuring horns amongst many other instruments are both perfection in mine and many other's eyes.

This is perfect pop punk. If you dig the ramones and want something fresh then check this out. The songs will be stuck in your head for months. Kissing cousins is my favourite.

http://www.mediafire.com/?zvlx1tmpg2uwqqc

P.S how fucking cool is that record cover!?

DRY HEAVES

2011-08-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

Excellent newish hardcore punk straight from the 80s via leeds. Think Black Flag but more party. Featuring members of Mouth and a tonne of other northern bands, the debut demo also has Johnson from Peep Show clips so its a real winner.

Im putting them on with the amazing Down and Outs from Liverpool and man hands and bastad rats in Camden on September 16th at the Black heart. This will be the first show ive put on in London and i'm very pleased with the lineup. You should come and bring a friend.

Check out their debut demo here and then come and dance with me.

http://www.mediafire.com/?mnnl72px6dzm4lj

Facebook event here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=111718695596640

The Observers

2011-05-28T12:19:00.000-07:00

I have been so slack with this blog so time to rectify. The football is on so what better excuse. First off i give you one of my favourite punk records from a band i will probably never see but listen to weekly. Portland's, The Observers. It is difficult to pin down exactly what they sound like but its punk, garage, post-punk with some grooving but hard sounds and very intelligent lyrics. The Observers are so abrasive yet so melodic and make you want to dance while screaming about how fucked the world is. Too many this is one of the most important punk albums to exist and i am in that camp. Sadly they split up in 2005 but the singer now fronts the Red Dons who absolutely kick ass and ill upload their stuff next but until then check out 'So What's Left Now' i managed to finally buy a copy of this at the recent Red Dons show in London and this has inspired this post. I think Daniel, Red Dons said it was cool to upload so check it out

http://www.mediafire.com/?3p8allkj5j5gfqx

Tell your children... they have to diiiie

Spraynard - Funtitled

2011-04-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

I am currently half way through the ninth listen of my buddies in Spraynard's second full length 'Funtitled' and oh my fuck its incredible. Incredible does not do this justice. I cannot comprehend how far these guys have come since i first heard the demo and saw them tour the UK. It is a testament to friends who want to just play together and share their message to the world.

Im finding it hard to put into words how good this is. The lyrics are mind blowing. Ive had to go back and re listen to certain bits. Spooky, scary is track of the year for sure. This is heartfelt, honest and beautiful song writing about families, friends, music and sticking together through anything that comes your way. Not one song is recognisable from the other, the instrumental bits are perfect, each member has improved so much since the last release and they will only get better. Dos' singing on this record adds yet another dimension and brings it all together. This is the most emo record ive heard in ages and also the most punk. Quite a feat.

Oh man this is so fucking good. I just urge you to download it immediately if you liked anything by them previous to this or just like pop punk or music. Just download it. Proof of how good this is can be seen in how this has had 2,076 downloads in a DAY. UNreal. This is out on Asian Man Records soon but until then download it from Ifyoumakeit. I cannot wait to see them in San Francisco at Asian Man Fest and i cannot wait to scream these lyrics so fucking loud.

This has given me so many goosebumps and made me smile so many times and i cannot see this getting old. 'Not good enough, Gary' has bought me close to tears.

Mark, Dos and Pat. You rule. Congratulations on a perfect record <3 !

http://www.ifyoumakeit.com/album/spraynard/funtitled/

Nona

2011-04-05T07:08:00.000-07:00

New band, new demo all the way from West Chester home of Spraynard and some of the best people to ever exist. This is Mimi, who i had the pleasure of hanging out with in Kingston last week, Ed who rules and just released an LP for the Slingshot Dakota record and Sean 'Ska' Morris who sings in Wrap it Up and loves ska and is an all round great dude. This is sweet, rocking and fun pop punk which reminds me of cheeky in places, might be the vocals and also early discount but thats probabably a really obvious comparison. Either way this is rad and i cant wait for the next release. I might get to see them in San Francisco this summer which would rule.

Check out the demo here: http://www.mediafire.com/?hm83577mwtnjw8u

Crash of Rhinos - Distal

2011-04-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Oh mannnnn ive been so pumped on the debut release from the Derby Emo/post hardcore rockers ever since i first saw them when i put them on with Wooderson early last year. Ive just finished my first listen of the record 'Distal' and fucking hell it sounds MASSIVE. I remember watching them with my jaw on the floor, was totally blown away and i asked them if they had anything out. Said they were recording in Italy? and a record would be out soon after. Just over a year later and 'Distal' is here. Epic, twinkly, heavy, loud, beautiful and marvelous are words that spring to mind while i sit here avoiding law revision.

Its got bits of American Football, bits of Braid, and bits of all those US bands that are going around at the mo like Grown Ups, By Surprise and Snowing but does not sound like them which rules. Also got that northern gruff punk charm that the UK has, highlighted in tracks like 'Closure' Its Ex Little Explorer so it was never going to be shit. Seriously great emo in the same kinda vein but less 'punk' than this. Definitely worth investigating.

Im finally getting them back to Kingston July 30th for a matinee mixed bill gig of awesomeness with Sundials from the US, Social Club, Caves and Crash of Rhinos. Its going to be aces.

Fuck this record gets better after every listen. Please download this, i guarantee you wont be disappointed.

oh mannnnn. Nice one lads. So good.

A double gatefold vinyl should be out soooon from these guys: http://www.robatriste.com but until then download the record here:

http://www.mediafire.com/?0o1gc1xp4vz7ydc

Loose Cannons

2011-04-05T05:11:00.000-07:00

Loose Cannons have been around for a little while now and i think its time any pop punk fans got into this coz they are rather good at what they do. Having just completed a mini tour with Ten Speed Bicycle, i had the pleasure of putting on the Kingston leg of the tour and it was the best ive seen the ladz play. They just have the mid 90s pop punk sound and the newer stuff aka title fight, brand new nailed. My best buddy in the whole world, Sean just released their debut on tape which i urge you to pick up as i dont think he has many left, go check out http://youthcamprecords.bigcartel.com/ and pick up the ten speed/dividers split too! These boys hail from Kent and are slowly being noticed and making a name for themselves. I can see this band going far so do not sleep on this if bands like title fight, tigers jaw, the starting line and Brand New are your bag. They are all true punk kids and are heavily influenced by Latterman and Saves the Day amongst others. Two members are in a hardcore/power violence band 'Ripped to Shreds' who rip and the drummer is in a sweet hot snakes kinda band called ' Great Ancestors' and both are well worth investigating.

Title Fight are touring soon so lets hope that Loose Cannons get asked to play a few dates and get noticed. They are also playing Hevy Fest in Kent and sharing the stage with the likes of Lemuria and DING so go to that as well. Looks fun.

Here is a download of the demo, released on tape by Youth Camp records. Check it, buy it. Get emotional.

http://www.mediafire.com/?m0qmfvyu0h0704t

I Saved Latin

2011-03-29T16:09:00.000-07:00

So a band messages me with a list of cool twinkly emo/post-hardcore influences and they happen to live outside London. WIN. Also say they have played shows with Ten Speed Bicycle and Attack! Vipers! so i was impressed. I have a listen to the song on their myspace and im into it. twinkly, ambient lo-fi post hardcore.

The swines in Well Wisher pulled out of the Ten Speed Bicycle/Dividers release show so i couldnt think of a more suited replacement than I Saved Latin.

Because im so nice to you i decided to upload the two songs that they have up for download so you can check em out before the show. They live just outside London so you might see more of them. They list their influences as American football, Braid, Death Cab for Cutie and Hey Mercedes so if thats your bag, check it out!

Come and see them Thursday and where a Hawaiian shirt.

SSSSNAKES - KISSSS THISSSS

2011-03-14T13:49:00.000-07:00

So it has taken a random email from a dude called James from somewhere around the world for me to update this blog. Ive been mega slack and i guess busy which is going to be my excuse.

Anyways, enough bullshit. Ssssnakes hold a special place in my heart and their debut album has been worth the wait. I remember first seeing the swansea boys on one of my dumbest trips to date. It was the week my long term ex broke up with me and i thought fuck it, lets go on my own to Swansea and on the way ill write my Medical law coursework (which was in for the next day) The lineup was sweet: shitty limits, ssssnakes and Hygiene. I had heard the ssssnakes myspace tracks and was excited to see them and the lineup and stupidity and the fact it was as far as i could possibly get from home was all very appealing. They were fucking great. so sloppy and silly and fun and rocking plus they covered silly girl and yeah i was in love. Seemed like the best dudes too. from there a special bond was formed, i put them on soon after that in Kingston and last summer put them on with Good Luck and people who should, finally took notice. They are now a tight, wel oiled rock machine but stil fun as hell and catchy as. If you dig dead milkemen (their favourite band) descendents (who doesn't) and a bit of ac/dc and songs about girls, your favourite pet, skateboarding and living life to the max then you should check out their debut album 'Kissss Thissss' Its silly, its fun, it will have you headbanging and singing along in no time. featuring two thirds of the Arteries and Pugs, one of the greatest humans on the planet; this band are about best friends and having a good time.

I could write so much more but im feeling lazy so let the album do the talking. You can order it from specialist subject here: http://shop.specialistsubjectrecords.co.uk/products/6775 and you can download it here: http://www.mediafire.com/?ep7icg7u7okldf1

They are playing this friday at the Cricketers pub in Kingston with Bangers and Tireless and Bird Calls. Its gonna be ace. You should come.

Expect another post later tonight, hopefully.

Dividers/Ten Speed Bicycle Split

2011-01-31T13:28:00.000-08:00

Two of my favourite bands on these sunny shores and some of my favourite people have come together and created a masterpiece of twiddlyemopoppunkmagic and this is what i present to you today.

I have featured Swansea's Dividers on here before, check out their demo here: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/04/dividers-band-of-week.html the four lads have come along way since that release and really honed their Get Bent/Latterman fast pop punk sound. These songs sound MASSIVE and are instantly stuck in your head. Zach shares some vocals on these songs and make a huge impact. Dual vocals fucking rule. Dividers are a passionate bunch of dudes who sing songs about their town, their scene and the ups and downs of life. Scott has added some noodly bits which is always awesome and Gavin's vocals have become even grittier yet still melodic. Basically this rules. If you like anything on Ifyoumakeit, No Idea records, Kiss of Death and diy punk with a heart then get involved in this. If i havnt sold it yet there is also a sound bite from the one and only Alan Johnson in Peep Show. Winner.

Ten Speed Bicycle have been mentioned a few times on this blog having played their first show at my Birthday house show but never had their own post because this is their first release bar a few great demos i was sent. Hailing from London, this is three friends who love capn' Jazz and the emo philly scene a LOT. From the two demos i had its crazy how far Ten Speed have come already as these four songs are again MASSIVE. Taking influence from bands like Grown Ups, Snowing, Cap'n Jazz, Saves the Day and their own lives this is fucking brilliant partytwiddlemo with an authentic english twist. Ive been in love with these guys since they started and this split has cemented them as one of mu favourite UK bands for sure. Kai has taken up vocals on this too creating some beatiful harmonies. So yeah dual vocals again for the win. Members of Can't Relate and best friends, Ten Speed feature some of the nicest and most down to earth people you will ever meet. And Jimmy never stops smiling.

If i havnt sold this to you then i think im wasting my time haha. Two awesome UK bands who have come leaps and bounds from when they started and this is only a sign of things to come.

Another exciting thing about this split tape is my best buddies Sean and Luke are co-releasing this with Gavin of Dividers' label. Sean and Luke (stab) just recently started Youth Camp Records and has already released the new Loose Cannons Demo which you should check out if you like Title Fight and fast pop punk. This is a new, exciting label that is as diy as they come and yeah im stoked. Check out their shiny new website and buy the split and say hello. Again, could not meet two nicer people http://youthcamprecords.webs.com/ Gavin's label What we should be doing is totally diy and totally rad too. re released the never gets dull Spraynard demo tape amongst others, check that out too http://www.whatweshouldbedoing.net/

All thats left to say is buy this and then come and see the RELEASE SHOW in kingston at the fighting cocks on March 31st. Loose Cannons and Manchester party people WELL WISHER will be joining the shenanigans and its gonna be awesome, expect balloons and confetti cannons and mix tapes. COME. If this is too far away there is a mini tour for loose cannons and ten speed so check em out somewhere near you

31/03/11 - Kingston, Fighting cocks W/Dividers *(ten speed bicycle/Dividers split record selease show!)*
01/04/11 - Bristol, venue tbc W/Tireless
02/04/11 - Manchester, Venue tbc W/Dividers
03/04/11 - Tunbridge Wells, The Forum W/Allister & Rufio
04/04/11 - Brighton, The Hobgoblin W/Caves, From Plan To Progress & Corrigan*

Here is the demo, enjoy! http://www.mediafire.com/?95mm63mv3ppuk6w

Belated Releases of 2010

2011-01-18T08:27:00.000-08:00

Yeah yeah i suck, its mid January but whatever. if you care here is a list of my favourite releases of last year with links galore to download and where to buy. This is no order because thats far to hard and time consuming. If you think ive missed something off this list please let me know, im always up for new music

Atlas - Beauty and the Blues

I wont talk to much about this as ive already made a post and uploaded their record here: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/08/atlas-beauty-and-blues.html perfect old sounding hip hop with a de la soul/rj d2 kinda vibe. It really is beautifuly constructed.

The Arteries - Dead Sea

Again i dont want to repeat myself too much, see my post here: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/11/arteries-dead-sea-new-album.html a flawless first? album from the Swansea chaps. Right balance of balls out rock and melody with some arty(ries) bits thrown in and as always, catchy as fuck songs. This album slays. Might take you a while to fall in love with it but when it clicks you will be telling everyone how they should listen. Im putting em on Feb 9th with my buddy Owen at the Fighting Cocks, Kingston with Bastad Rats, Apologies, i have none and Rat Attack. Come and see what the fuss is about. Best live band. Best Dudes. Buy it here and support Andrew (Bangers) label. It rules. http://specialistsubject.limitedpressing.com/bands/the-arteries

Bangers - Dude Trips

I love how loads of my friends released the best stuff in 2010. Bangers being no exception. I guess this isnt an album as such, more a collection of everything they have done to date, Dirty Tactics split, break the habit split AOTU 7" and brits abroad 7". Perfect pop punk for fans off none more black, saves the day and hit the beach. Seriously i talk about the Arteries and Bangers too much so get with the programme and get everything by both bands and get singing. Buy it here: http://specialistsubject.limitedpressing.com/products/6771

Bird Calls S/T

One of my first posts was regarding a new band some friends had formed and i went to their first practice. Since then they have played a bunch of shows (three for me!) and just toured with human hands, rad band, more soon, and released their first record/tape. Its fucking great. Max says they rip off Tubers hard and ive never listened to them so probs should. Total partymo in a discord/shouty vein. so so so good. Just nailed it again for me last week. Download their s/t here or get the tape in a beautiful velvet pouch when you go and see them: http://www.mediafire.com/?cgwcyvc1v12hkc1 they are one of those bands that dont name their songs so sorry if it seems confusing, i tried my best. Enjoy!

Can't Relate - Inhumane E.P

Had to be in my top releases of last year. Ridiculously good hardcore/powerviolence straightedge from london ala limp wrist/punch. I uploaded one song last time, here is the whole EP. One of my favourite moments of last year was moshing to them on the second floor of my friend's house with the police knocking on the door and the lightbulb smashed. They split up every five seconds but everytime they come back they kill it. Saw them a few weeks ago in a practice space in sutton. They ruled. Lets hope we get some new songs this year. Download here:

http://www.mediafire.com/?42jy648paqgcds5

Ceremony - Rohnert Park

I remember listening and promptly dismissing Ceremony a few years ago when i first fell in love with the Outbreak E.P. Ceremony didnt do anything for me then. They toured with Paint it Black early last year and i saw them three times. every show they blew me away. Holy shit what a band. So brooding, so much energy, arguably the most entertaining frontman in hardcore right now and they also put one of the best sets ive ever seen at This is Hardcore. I immediately checked out their new record Rohnert Park and my god it rules. Its really really different to their previous stuff. lots of instrumental bits and again its so brooding and intense. Bits of the Wipers, gang of four thrown in amongst their cut throat hardcore. Check out track 1 it will explain it better. Buy this record. Fucking amazing. http://www.mediafire.com/?n75875sejosjor2 OPEN HEAD OPEN HEAD. So much respect for that band. They dont give a fuck what you think.

Never Again - Year One LP

They came, they went and they conquered. Split up now but they left a path of chaos at every gig they played. Amazing live band and perfect on record. made you want to stomp through the floor. This was a collection of everything they had released and some new songs. Youth of Today meets infest or xfilesx. Not sure if its sold out yet but track it down. R.I.P Played some of my fave shows of last year. Luke is already in a new band called Stab. They rule. Come and see them feb 27th at the Fighting Cocks, Kingston for a london Hardcore extravaganza: Abolition, Stab, Iron Curtain, Warm Ways and one more.

Cynics - 7"

He went from my being my always drunk and naked friend to being my always drunk and naked friend and one of my favourite solo artists. i bum this dude hard enough so to save his ego get this 7", learn the words and join in the bromance. Playing in Kingston at the Fighting Cocks, Feb 11th with Brothers, Porches and Sauna Youth (all bands you can download stuff from on this blog) come and say hello and marvel at how much of a child Giles looks like. download here: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/09/cynics-aka-giles-bidder.html

Grown Ups - More Songs

I'm seeing a trend with bands ive blogged about being in the top ten. Having been a fan of of the Chicago kids for a while i was so excited to hear they were coming over. They blew me away. Seriously the most energetic band i saw all of last year. The highlight of my year was the house show they played for my 22nd birthday and yeah band rules 100%. Nicest guys. If you like your emo fast, intricate and shouty, get on this. Easily one of the best records released last year. Partymo. Download their debut LP 'More Songs' here: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/06/grown-ups-band-of-2010.html

Myles Pereira - Of Pears and Figs

When i heard my friend Myles was playing music i asked him to play a show right away before i had even heard him. I did not expect what i heard at all. His voice made the whole venue fall silent. it was incredible. Blew me away. Ive posted about him on here already. Check out his EP here: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/09/myles-pereira-of-pears-and-figs.html

Eddy Current Suppression Ring - Rush to relax

Definitely one of my favourite current bands. Bang on simple garage/rock from Australia. Think Gang of Four and i reckon the Wipers. Primary Colours has been on repeat since i first heard of this band and their follow up third album does not dissapoint. More of the same with some driving guitar lines, pretty surfy too. Check this out because everyone i know who has heard this band LOVES this band. Listen here and then buy all three albums. The UK got a re-release of their first and second album on a double cd so get that. www.myspace.com/eddycurrentsuppressionring

Iron Chic - Not Like This

This album is in a lot of people, record label's, magazines and zines top 5 of 2010 and since the release of this album their popularity has increased massively. I got their demo on cd and tape when i ordered the get bent demo and tape in preparation for seeing them both at fest 7. I loved the demo and two songs were huge so i was pretty pumped to see them. Due to queues and being scared about not seeing the Falcon i failed to see Iron Chic at Fest 7 and am still yet to see them. Fortunately they are coming to the UK later this May so i will finally get my chance. The album is brilliant. They have really nailed the latterman anthemic singalongs. The one problem that i and my friend Minty found was that however much we listen to Iron Chic's new album we end up putting Get Bent on instead. No offence guys, i think i just love them too much. Enough rambling from me. This album rules and has some serious Top of the Pops tunes on it so download it here and come check em out when they come over. Expect a split with Pacer soon too http://www.mediafire.com/?qb1ab97rcvowmod

Paul Baribeau - Unbearable

Paul Baribeau is perfect marriage material. The voice, the lyrics, the beard and how listening to him fills you with joy but can also give you goosebumps. Perfect perfect perfect solo acoustic folk with punk overtones. His third album is right on the money and sounds massive. I guarantee your girlfriend or boyfriend will fall in love with him too. One of the most honest singer songwriters around. Hope i get to see him soon. it bugs me i havn't yet www.myspace.com/paulbaribeau

Tigers Jaw - Two Worlds

After the s/t being one of the greatest records ive heard in years being on repeat at work everyday i was expecting big things from the second album. Its great, but it has not grabbed me as immediately as the first album did. Its got some seriously catchy songs such as smile and when i saw them live the new songs sounded even better than on record but its still yet to blow me away. Im going to give it more time. Band rules though. One of the punkest around. Check em out, then listen to all their friend's bands. Still hold the accolade of most downloaded band on This Music is my Life. Check it out: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/03/tigers-jaw-band-of-week.html

Hightide Hotel - Nothing was missing, except me

Ive mentioned this band a tonne at the bottom of posts when i say for fans of. At the end of last year, they like their buddies Snowing released their debut LP after a cracking demo/ep. This is perfect poppy catchy twiddly emo like only the Philly bands know. Its great. Listen to it on cold winter mornings while you walk to the bus and i guarantee it will put a smile on your face. Another band i want to come over SO bad. Download the album and track down the ep and split with By Surprise, both are great. http://www.mediafire.com/?7f9055t41t1m71u

Spraynard - Cut and Paste

So the biggest news of 2011 thus far bar the Descendents playing in London in April and the fact that im going to San Francisco in June to see SLAPSTICK on my 23rd birthday, was that my best friends Spraynard's new album 'Funtitled' (best name) is going to be released on Asian Man Records!!!! HOLY SHIT. im so proud of these guys. Read my full ode to one of the best bands and people in the world here: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/03/spraynard-this-band-could-be-your-life.html download everything, send them an email, they will reply. Best dudes. Their debut LP rocks.

Snowing - I could do whatever i wanted if i wanted

More amazing twiddlemo from phillyyyyy. This is turning out to be quite long so just download and read here. P.s come over please! http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/12/snowing-band-of-week.html

So there are some of my stand out favourites. Amongst all this lot Dividers released a killer first EP, 10 speed bicycle sent me two great first tracks from the up and coming partymo kids, Samson had the best idea ever and released a perfect sounding Weakerthans live album with a fuck load of instruments and a bang on setlist,

One of my favourite current hardcore bands Urban Blight released a 7" to go with their European tour which ruled. I had the pleasure of putting them on and seeing them three times. Best dudes, best band. Ill upload that soon when i stop being lazy

Canada's garage pop band Statues released a new album and i also had the pleasure of putting them on last year too. Catchy stuff as always. Rory Matthews released a debut album showing us that he has so much more to offer. The Shitty Limits released a 6th 7" with two rocking numbers. Band can do no wrong. Saturday's kids and Sauna youth both released great second 7"s.

Superchunk not only reformed but did what most bands struggle with when they come back and released a fucking great album. You should go listen to Majesty Shredding right now! Home town heroes Pacer released their first EP 'No 1' speedy bouncing souls punk which is definitely worth checking out. Split with Iron Chic out later this year! Post Shit Notes from the city i was born, Guildford, came out of nowhere with some sloppy and catchy garage. Cant wait for their first release.

Following up from their amazing 7" New York's Nomos delivered more angry as fuck hardcore in their one sided 12". Check my blog for a download. Ex Nowhere Fast did a rough demo for their new band Amateur Video which is brilliant. Still yet to see them though which pisses me off.

Crazy Spirit released some void sounding noise which was great. Good Luck played one of my favourite shows ive put on and been to and released a 7" which is awesome. Hot Club De Paris are never shit and their latest 10" was rad. Wish i could upload their stuff. Maybe one day. Hunx and his punx made me smile and Everyone Everywhere released their debut album which ill admit did not grab me as immediately as previous efforts. I need to spend more time with it.

There you go, my rambling, non nonsensical releases of last year. I probably missed out loads of 'essential' records but there is too much music and not enough time.

Hope this did not bore you

p.s. i want to like the new none more black record so bad but meh. what am i missing?

Some Sort of Threat (RORY) Dude of the Week

2010-12-13T08:42:00.000-08:00

I first came across Rory at the Spraynard Swansea show back in the summer of 2009. He blew my mind to be honest. 16 years old and playing guitar better than anyone id seen play acoustic. Political, honest and unique and so so so young we can only expect bigger things. Already penned by many as the next Jon Shoe of the Cut Ups, Rory has a bright future and its a pleasure to be a friend. I picked up his demo and congratulated him after the above show and he has since released an album entitled 'Tangles' which you can download below. If you like Dave House, Gordon Ganos Army, Russ Substance, Weakerthans, ONSIND, Cynics and just general, honest folk music then check out both his EP (written when he was very young but showed so much promise) and his new album.

Im still yet to get Exter's finest to Kingston but hopefully soon. He is also in another band called False Arrests, you should check them out too www.myspace.com/thefalsearrestsfromexeter

Enjoy. Drop him a line on his myspace and get him to play your garden, garage, venue, house. He will probably say yes.

Demo: http://www.mediafire.com/?lqbmt6pcrc9n62q

Tangles Album: http://www.mediafire.com/?703clx4braw9p0i

Snowing - Band of the week

2010-12-05T15:51:00.000-08:00

There is a group on lastfm called 'Get Rad' dedicated to emo and from this group i discovered a tonne of bands and Snowing were one of the first i fell in love with. I remember some kid uploading this 5 track demo that did not even have song names. Twiddly, shouty and party and fucking catchy. I was hooked and head over heels. The proper ep then came out which you can download from the ever fantastic IFYOUMAKEIT site: http://www.ifyoumakeit.com/album/snowing/fuck-your-emotional-bullshit/ track 5 is the jam, amazing demo. featuring ex members of Street Smart Cyclist who ive uploaded on here already: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/06/street-smart-cyclist-band-of-week.html Snowing slay. I had the pleasure of meeting Nathaniel, one of the guitarists, in Philly the night after Kid Dynamite as i needed a place to stay. Turned out the guy who hooked me up was THE Sam Rudich of the Snowing song, they couldnt think of a name so just named it after their friend, too good. He played me the album their and i loved it. 'I could do whatever i wanted if i wanted' just came out this week and it rules. definitely gonna be in my top ten of 2010 so get involved if you love algernon (obvious comparison) cap n jazz, grown ups, spraynard, hightide hotel, by surprise, 1994 blah blah blah emo/philly rules.

Check out the new album here: http://www.mediafire.com/?b1j1ul593zk8gel

Come to the uk soon please guys. i want to party.

Hit the Beach - Discography

2010-11-23T04:03:00.000-08:00

Ive been planning to unleash this on the world for far too long so here it is. I give you HIT THE BEACH. You know that band Bangers who along with the Arteries are currently destroying every venue in the uk? Well before they were Bangers they were actually a Summer time only party thrash/hardcore band who sang songs exclusively about the beach and wore speedos when they played. Im not joking here, just wait until you listen. The only difference in the lineup to Bangers is Andrew is on guitar and Roo is on bass instead of vice versa as they are now. You will recognise the rasping vocals immediately and i guarantee you will love this and then get pissed off you never saw them. The band's main influence i guess is the 80's film 'Surf Nazis Must Die' which is like a seaside version of the Warriors. Check out the trailer here and then watch it, crazy film, you will recognise some samples from the songs in the movie. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8LV1S2q2GA I had the pleasure of seeing this band twice but its not nearly enough and every Bangers show i just want them to leap into some Hit The Beach as they did at a house show i put on last summer in my bedroom.

If you can get past the genius song titles and bring yourself to listen then please do. 1 minute thrash songs about sandcastles, crabs, david hasselhoff, lifeguards and general beach shenanigans. If i ever have money in my life id love to release both these eps on vinyl but until then, enjoy:

http://www.mediafire.com/?7v5h516sq7b9925

Stay beween the flags kids

Arteries - Dead Sea (New Album)

2010-11-23T02:49:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the worst blog on the internet. Swansea's The Arteries have been making waves across the country over the last two years and having just toured up to fest again with New Jersey's Static Radio and tours with dead to me, flatliners and another european tour already booked for 2011 i can seriously see this band becoming the 'punk' band in the country.

The new album dead sea came out just over a month ago and is phenomonal. I have no idea how they do it but they can blend melody, rock n roll, shredding guitars, blistering drums, perfect harmonies and the catchiest hooks since... well the first arteries album.

Ive already seen these songs live three times and they nail it everytime. This album in some respects is very different to 'Blood, Sweat and Beers' that album is very poppy and chorusy yet still super fast and intense. This album has the poppy songs and choruses but also has a rock as fuck aspect and some pure guitar sections which build up to these intense instrumentals. Miles' voice has got stronger and he really lets rip in this record. Reading this i sound like a twat so im going to stop there and just say check this out coz it rules. If you have not seen them live a) where have you been and b) do it now. They are having a small break now having been on tour since the summer but be sure to check them on the flatliners tour next year.

Arteries' friend and all round awesome chap, Andrew Bangers' label 'Specialist Subject Records' has released the cd version and you should buy it right now from here if you like the first album, The Bronx, The Steal, ACDC and Descendents and the beach: http://shop.specialistsubjectrecords.co.uk/product/the-arteries-dead-sea-cd-pre-order should be getting a vinyl release early next year in the USA, label to be confirmed so watch out for that too, record nerdz.

I have kindly been allowed to upload a couple of tracks from the album so get a taste and then buy it friends.

Acoustic Associations: http://www.sendspace.com/file/zt2x62

Don't Come Around no more: http://www.sendspace.com/file/b6ujxx

Listen to N.W.A.

Jean Mills Society Torch

2010-09-27T14:47:00.001-07:00

Ive been meaning to upoad this record for ages. After i saw Deep Sleep at Fest 7 i got chatting to the drummer Mike for ages and he told me about a bunch of rad bands and his great label: Wallride Records and gave me a few records to take home and check out. This was one of them. Super hyper pissed of thrash/hardcore from Maryland featuring members from a tonne of ex and current bands inclduing deep sleep. The lyrics to this record are hilarious, poking fun at the police, education and and how music isnt metal enough anymore to give a few examples. I fucking love this 7" and i hope you do to. Don't think they played many shows and this is definitely hard to find so check it out. The guitar solos alone will make you air guitar your arse off and i guarantee you will be hadbanging by mid way through. Killer record.

http://www.mediafire.com/?xzu099778cxax97

Crazy Spirit - Band of the Week

2010-09-27T07:48:00.001-07:00

I was fortunate enough to go to Philly just over a month ago to see Kid Dynamite play at This is Hardcore. During the week Nazi Dust played a massive warehouse in north philly. It was at this show that i picked up the Crazy Spirit tape. Its great. More obscure 80's influenced hardcore from New York. Bands that come to mind when i listen are Void, Jerry's Kids and Vile. If that is your bag then get into this demo. ive been listening to it a lot lately.

http://www.mediafire.com/?bodebcsl0ebzg0d 2009 Demo

Nomos - Discography

2010-09-26T11:26:00.001-07:00

Nomos are from Brooklyn, New York and fucking kill it. First heard about these through my buddy sean and picked up the demo. It rules. Super fast and angry as hell tear it up style hardcore. Some of the best artwork ive seen on a record too. I featured one song on my top 12 songs of last year upload. you should check it out. Nomos just released their debut LP, a one-sided 12". Its a lot darker, heavier and

broodier than the demo and split but upon first listen its still killer. Would seriously love to see this band live. Hopefully one day, COME TO THE UK PLEASE. I picked this up from the icoulddietomorrow.blogspot.com you should check it out. blog shits on mine and has a million amazing bands. Nomos are totally down with downloads so check out the demo, split with the men and new record below. pick up their stuff from deranged or distros if you are lucky!

One of the best hardcore bands around by far. Don't sleep on this.

http://www.mediafire.com/?dzdmkadkdzr4t79 Demo 7"

http://www.mediafire.com/?v6fm15mac6i48kq Split 7" with The Men

http://www.mediafire.com/?tlw614h3qzionl6 One-sided 12" 'Notes from the Ancheron'

Pacer - debut 10" out now

2010-09-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

Pacer are the second band to form from the ashes of the steal featuring the other two stooges: Dave and Mark. First saw them play with shook ones at the cocks and that is one band they definitely sound like and are influenced by. they have those short, punchy choruses you can't really sing along too and they are very fast 90% of the time.

Chunksaah, home of The Bouncing Souls, decided they liked the sound so much they would release their debut record and sort them a short US tour up to the fest where they are also playing.
This band features so much musical prowess and history that it was never going to be shit and its fast, fun and bouncy punk rock with Mark's distinctive vocals giving it that edge so many bands lack and the poppiest guitar lines. I think shook ones, new mexican distaster squad, and Osker and the lyrics and some of the music is so The Steal's first record which is never a bad thing. Im well into their debut effort and the record is lovingly packaged and in an assortment of colours for you vinyl nerds. Cannot wait for more!

Here is the 'hit' Circles around a square: http://www.mediafire.com/?67p787uub3dnbt3 if you like what you hear then watch a video and maybe buy the record here:
http://www.banquetrecords.com/CAR044

Bangin'

Myles Pereira - Of Pears and Figs

2010-09-14T03:46:00.000-07:00

I met Myles a few years ago through mutual friends and a love of hardcore and at the beginning of the year a video emerged of Myles playing a banjo around a fire somewhere in the woods. To put it simply his voice blew my mind. I had no idea he even sang so it was such a surprise.

i spoke to him about how much i loved his voice one night in Kingston and said i wanted to put him on and so on April 6th i saw him live for the first time. it was unreal. He swapped between acoustic guitar and a banjo and had these beautifully crafted songs and the most amazing voice. the whole room was dead silent and everyone was in awe. country/folk/bluegrass straight from the heart.

coz im a dick i had no idea his debut ep was up for free download and has been for a few months now. Myles wants everyone to hear it so hopefully you will check it out. When i listen to this ep i just feel like im walking through the woods towards a log cabin on top of a mountain and a roaring fire waiting for me. This music paints a picture in your mind. So good.

I have not read the lyrics but he describes them as 'bittersweet' i think its uplifting yet emotional. my first listen ten minutes ago i got goosebumps. i think you will too.

http://www.mediafire.com/?doomomymuqa Of Pears and Figs 2010

I doth my cap Myles. Hopefully get some full band stuff next... i cannot wait.

Cynics

2010-09-14T02:41:00.000-07:00

My first memory of Giles was seeing him getting wanked off by his best friend Tom as part of a bet. It only really goes downhill from there. Just kidding, Giles is seriously a massive inspiration to anyone who just wants to get out there, play as many shows as possible, anywhere, any place, any time and sing from their heart.

When his ska band 'Frank Butcher and the Slags' split up Giles was lost so he picked up an acoustic and taught himself guitar, wrote some songs and then played them everywhere to anyone. toilets, gig queues, bedrooms, trains. Since then he has become a staple support slot in kingston, brighton, manchester and basically getting everywhere. If he can get a train he will play. He has supported some of his favourite bands and is building a strong following of backing singers. Watching him live, i get goosebumps. It really is an honour to have him as a friend as he is really 'living the dream' When i saw Against me the other week i did notice that Giles rips them off massively so of you like against me, billy bragg, frank Turner then you will like this. fuck it, if you like genuine, honest and inspiring music you should love this. Go and see him live and be humbled and blown away by his passion.

Giles just released his debut 7" following a split with We Grow Beards from Dorking and its amazing. It includes the Paint it Black cover, endorsed by Yemin haha and the 7 rules. You can Download it at the bottom of this post but you really should buy it: http://www.banquetrecords.com/cynicsep

I don't know how else to persuade you to check this out. Everytime i see him play and see people sing along i just feel more positive than ever. A true hero of the underground punk scene.

Nice one Ten Pumps

Stone I've thrown: http://www.mediafire.com/?jm2nnmz3zkm

Atlas: Beauty and the Blues

2010-08-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

If you read my shit regularly then you may remember me mentioning a real good hip hop band called ATLAS who feature on a Comadre mixtape with a sick song called 'delerium'. Dexter, the rapper in Atlas, messaged me asking if i wanted to host their debut album 'Beauty and the blues' and i definitely was not going to say no! Its fucking awesome. Like super awesome. I have no idea how to describe hip hop but this is basically fucking awesome and you should download it and let me know what you think.

Im totally stoked to host such a sweet record so please check it out. They Hail from California and are currently looking into finding a full band to start playing shows. So yeah keep your eyes peeled.

Here it is: http://www.mediafire.com/?usumu24vb6v2yhk

Enjoy

Modernettes

2010-07-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

Another absolute gem from the master of music at Killed by Death. I would kill a baby to own a physical copy of this ep. Perfect Perfect Perfect Perfect power pop from Canada in the early eighties. Raw, fun, angsty and crazy. If you like exploding hearts, ramones and beach boys then i guarantee you will love this. I still havnt been able to find the only LP they did online but when i do ill upload it.

Ive actually got a band together and want to play power pop/new wave punk like this but im useless and cant even begin to think about writing lyrics. ive been told by my friends i have to start a band so watch this space i guess. When i do, the band will be called 'Teen City' in honour of this outstanding record.

http://www.mediafire.com/?7jo6s083e8d71e4

Curb Crawl

2010-07-27T12:36:00.001-07:00

So more bands are sending me their records to upload but im slack as fuck so take forever uploading them. Apologies lads.

Curb Crawl are a new band from leeds and they have come up with a good little demo. Four tracks of no bullshit aggressive, fast and in your face stompy hardcore. You know i cant describe bands so if you like xfilesx, poison idea, never again, nowhere fast blah blah blah then check this out. i hope to get em down for a kingston show soon. Nice work boys. Something in the water in leeds.

Demo time: http://www.mediafire.com/?el34k3vv04h8oka

Band of the Week: GOOD LUCK - UK TOUR

2010-07-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

Good Luck are a band i discovered far too late for my liking but oh well they are one of my favourite bands now and they arrive in the UK on Friday to embark on their first UK tour. They are Ginger (ex one reason) Matt (Matty Pop chart) and Mike and they come from Bloomington, Indiana.

I heard some friends talking about them so downloaded their debut record 'Into lake Griffy' and it blew my mind. The guitar playing is insane. the harmonies are beautiful between Ginger and Matt and the songs are catchy as hell. Basically this record totally owns and if you like Lemuria, weakerthans, superchunk, little lungs, discount and fun summery sounding indie/pop/punk then you should ADORE Good Luck.

I have the honour of putting on their first ever UK show in Kingston and could not be more excited! I managed to get some of my favourite bands on the show too so its going to be a blast. Hope you can make it!

Ginger of the Band has Kindly allowed me to upload their debut album and 2010 single so check both out below, learn the words and go and see them around the uk over the next two weeks. All the dates are listed on their myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/wearegoodluck

Into Lake Griffy:

http://www.mediafire.com/?a9feab6gbc16h4b

2010 Demo:

http://www.mediafire.com/?zgyab904uf508ji

Enjoy and hopefully see you at a show.

RVIVR LP. UK Tour in OCTOBER!

2010-06-21T12:27:00.000-07:00

rvivr have an LP out on Rumbletown Records and Erica has kindly said i can upload it. Expect a visit from them in October, fingers crossed i get a kingston or Guildford show. Get stoked. This album rules. perfect summery pop punk.

http://www.mediafire.com/?flfnt13gqkm

if you havn't heard of them, read this: http://thismusicismylife.blogspot.com/2010/02/rvivr-get-your-ass-out-front-door.html and get involved.

Amazing.

Street Smart Cyclist - Band of the Week

2010-06-20T04:28:00.000-07:00

Street Smart Cyclist were incredible. From Pennsylvania, Lehigh Valley they were at the forefront of the emo/math/rock revival in America and all the bands that exist now doing this would have taken some influence from Street Smart. You could argue the one 7" they released and the the unreleased acoustic demo and one unreleased song is better than most bands full discogs. They are THAT good.

After one tour of half of the east of the US they had their equipment stolen in North Carolina and split up shortly after that. Their memory will live on for many years in all the bands doing this sound in philly and the surrounding area and again im gutted ill never see this band or get to scream to 'Hoods Up' in my lifetime. This is as good as it gets.

Members went on to form Snowing who slay. ill post about 'em soon.

Anyway here is the short but minblowing discog. one 7", one acoustic ep and two unreleased songs http://www.mediafire.com/?zmuyu3n222t

R.I.P

Pirouette - Thinking in Subtitles

2010-06-20T03:48:00.000-07:00

Pirouette are another amazing band from Philly who i doubt ill ever have the pleasure of seeing. They have been around since 2006 and its crazy how they arnt more popular considering the reaction algernon cadwallader get in the US and in Europe. They play a perfect brand of twiddlemopop and have the catchiest songs and the most beautiful instrumental parts and the vocals are superb. I could gush over this album forever. Im not sure they even exist anymore and if they do im pretty sure its just two of them. Either way if you dig algernon cadwallader/cap n jazz, grown ups, by surprise, promise ring, everyone everywhere(who feature members of pirouette and just released a new LP, get involved) blah blah blah then download this and let me know what you think. This record is worth it for 'Clinton wasn't on a bill, he was one' alone. Best love song.

http://www.mediafire.com/?yiwni4td2xk

Im going to Philly in August to see Kid Dynamite. I would LOVE to see Pirouette too, may be my only chance.

CJJJJJJ ROUGGGGGH WREEEEEATH, KNOWWWWS WHAAAAATTTTS UPPPP!

GROWN UPS - Band of 2010

2010-06-19T16:31:00.001-07:00

I know it is only June but having seen Grown ups in Kingston, London and then having them play a house show in Kingston on tuesday to celebrate me being 22 i can safety say they are one of the best bands in the world, have one of the best LPs released this year and are the best dudes.

I don't really have much else to say. Ive posted about them before and seeing them live blew my already high expectations to pieces. They were PHENOMONAL. So fast, so fun and so party. Grown Ups again are another band that reaffirm my love for music. kids, touring the world and doing it for the fun and the adventure. I cannot speak highly enough of this band.

If you came tuesday, thanks for making it a night i will NEVER forget.

Here is their debut LP: 'More Songs' Already a contender for record of the year. Near perfect. Some serious Pop hits and they re-recorded the four songs on their debut demo. Definitely check this out.

'More Songs' http://www.mediafire.com/?2lymti4uuht

10 Speed Bicycle - Band of the week

2010-06-08T05:36:00.000-07:00

My buddies Kai and Tommy of can't relate fame and Jimmy have started an emo/punk band called 10 Speed bicycle and ive been listening to two rough demos all morning and its fucking brilliant and a breath of fresh air for the UK anyway. if you love snowing, street smart cyclist, cap n jazz and latterman then you will love this. Im excited to put them on next tuesday at a secret house show im doing with my friend Lexie to celebrate being 22. Im gonna get Dave If You make it involved in this too coz its right up his and everyone who loves his website's street.

anyway, this is rad. download two demos HERE: http://gorillabar.blogspot.com/2010/06/10-speed-bicycle-free-demo-download.html

too good.

The Wipers - Band of the Week

2010-05-30T06:27:00.000-07:00

I post about so many great bands from Portland, Oregon and you could argue that many would not exist if it was not for the Wipers. Formed in 1977, Wipers were one of the early purveyors of the punk genre in America. Guitarist Greg Sage looked at music as art rather than entertainment and thought music was personal to the listener and not the commodity. With this in mind they started off as a recording project and never planned to advertise or tour. The plan was to release 15 LPs in ten years. It soon became apparent this would never work. music is a business after all. Sage learned that he could never be a true artist. In 1979 their debut record 'is this real' was released and is still hailed today as one of the greatest punk albums despite at the time, never being or wishing to be a punk band. Heavy distortion, tight song strcuture, driving vocals with words being spat out and amazing lyrics. this band fucking ruled and you should definitely check out their debut record below and also 'over the edge' and 'youth of america' all inspired. Recently been repressed by Greg and Jackpot records, hunt them down. Dont be fooled, they may seem like an arty band with arty fans but this is perfect 80s punk.

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=GVKKOM0A

The Real Kids

2010-05-18T14:18:00.001-07:00

The Real Kids were a boston punk rock band who started in 1972 as an offshoot from the Modern Lovers (ive never heard them so am downloading their record now!) Formerly called the Kids they played a brilliant mix of ramones, beach boys, chuck berry but were very much a 'punk' band. They still play shows every now and then and id love to see them. Their one and only record 'The Real Kids' was released in 1978 and is in my opinion, perfect. check it out and let me know what you think. I guarantee the opening track will get stuck in your head and you will hum it walking down the street. Perfect.

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=4OICXG0Y - The Real Kids

here is another record, dont know anything about it but it rules: http://www.megaupload.com/?d=BBE5UQF7

The Killers - Not the shit one

2010-05-17T05:42:00.000-07:00

This 7" is unbelievable. Unbelievable. Probably two of the catchiest and most fun and ridiculous songs ive ever heard. Literally top of the pops. A new wave band from Cleveland they were around from 1979 to 1984 and were first called 'Insanity and the Killers' I cant speak highly of these two songs enough. Ive had no luck hunting down their LP but hopefully one day. there are tonnes of vids on youtube so its all good. Anyway download these two pop ditties and get smiling. So fucking good. Lyrics are hilarious.

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=R72GRYV0

Oh yeah, would never have even heard of this band and a tonne of otherS if it was not for one of the best websites to ever exist: http://www.kbdrecords.com/ go to the last page and download everything working backwards, you will be doing it for months but your quality of life will improve dramatically

INCREDIBLE

Charles Bronson

2010-05-17T04:55:00.000-07:00

Charles Bronson, so named after the the prolific british prisoner, regarded as the most violent prisoner in british history, were a powerviolence band from Illinois and they like everyone else i post about, fucking ruled. Mixing powerviolence, youth crew, satirical lyrics aimed at the hardcore scene and media samples, mostly from Charles Bronson films (a famous american actor, renowned for his tough guy image) they were around from 1994 to 1997 and are seen to have alongside los Crudos, revived the thrashcore scene. The singer, Mark McCoy went on to form Das Oath, another incredible fastcore/powerviolence band. There are too many names for this shit but whatever download their one and only LP 'Youth Attack' it will kill you. http://www.megaupload.com/?d=KJVHK87A

Long live the Exploding Hearts

2010-05-17T04:04:00.000-07:00

I can't remember how i found out about this band, i think it was listening to some band's radio station on lastfm. Exploding Hearts were from Portland, Oregon and played some of the best Buzzcocks/The Boys powerpop/punk ive ever heard. Shortly after the release of their critically acclaimed debut record 'Guitar Romantic' in 2003 three of the four band members died in a car crash. Terry Six, the guitarist was the only surviving member. The band immediately stopped and the name has not been used since. In 2006 Dirtnap Records released a compilation of all their demos and unreleased songs entitled 'shattered' you should hunt it down.

Here is 'Guitar Romantic' its perfection. Spread the word and dont let this band die.
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=0VG5CV67

MEAN JEANS - Your new favourite band

2010-05-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

Ive been so excited at work all day waiting to post about this band. Thats how good they are. A lot of bands rehash the Ramones and some are great and most suck. Mean Jeans have come into my life and its as if they are from the 80s. Hailing from Portland, Oregon, Their debut record released last year too called 'Are you Serious' is SO much fun. Ive danced around work most of the day to this and been listening when im at home. I can see myself listening to this all summer. I messaged them singing their praises and Billie Jeans said i could upload their record as you need this in your life/summer. Its out now on Dirtnap records, same label that released Marked Men and as soon as ive found a uk stockist i will be buying. They have a brand new 7" out now which i NEED to hear. I'm basically stupendously excited and stoked on this record and band and am already planning to go to Berlin in September and see them as they cant make the uk. Enough crap, listen and get partying. http://www.mediafire.com/?jxvmmqiqzjn If you love the Ramones, Queers, Screeching weasel, pizza, get trashed and partying then DOWNLOAD THIS NOW.

NO BRAINER, NO BRAINER, I'M I'M I'M I'M A NOOO BRAINER

so good. Thanks to the dude from Vicious Cycle who played them to me. Amazing.

Statues - Band of the Week

2010-05-10T10:29:00.001-07:00

Ive loved Statues for a while but stupidly missed their last uk tour coz im an idiot. I jumped at the chance to put them on in guildford and thats exactly what i did on the friday just passed. Definitely the nicest and coolest overseas band ive put on to date. It ruled just to be able to talk about kbd bands, the thriving canadian scene and the Weakerthans. Statues play super fun power pop/punk ala marked men, ramones, Tranzmitors and do it better than most. With a sound like that you probably guessed they were canadian. They even cover The Sods 'Television Sect' which they played both times i saw them which was a nice surprise. Mitch kindly said i could upload their latest record 'Holiday Cops' They have three albums and about a hundred 7"s so hunt em down and get dancing in your room. Here is that record: http://www.divshare.com/direct/10307376-3fa.zip its total party.

I lost the most ive lost on a show on friday but it was definitely one of best shows ive put on. Check out the rest of the bands who played. My friend Ian drew this awesome flyer

thanks for being rad Statues, hope they come back soon. Thanks to anyone who came to the show too. The Shitty Limits played after curfew was a real treat.

NOWHERE FAST RIP :(

2010-05-10T09:07:00.001-07:00

A couple of weekends back Nowhere fast played their last two shows, one in London and one in Leeds and then called it a day. I only had the honour of seeing this band three times but each time they blew me away. Totally nailed the SOA, Void, Negative FX side of hardcore and them calling it a day is a massive loss to the UK hardcore scene.

I first met Tom, who was the singer, when he drummed for Cold Ones, he was wearing a Self Destruct t shirt and consequently got me into that band. Good Dude. It took a long time for me to see them but when i finally did it was totally worth the wait. One of the best guitarists ive seen in the uk by far and so much energy on stage and so much fun. Im totally gutted they have gone. As much as i tried i never did get the chance to put them on and to top it all i was too dead to go to the last London show which ive seen evidence off and been told, slayed. Oh well.

im totally rambling but yeah this band rules. If you never saw them, gutted. If you did, you know what im talking about. They have kindly put their discography: a demo and debut 7" and some covers up for download so check that out here: http://www.sendspace.com/file/o9vzp1 You can still pick up their record from Mind Rot Records in Virginia who released it www.mindrotrecords.bigcartel.com

Tom and Ad formerly of Nowhere Fast have already started a new Band called Amateur Video and you can download their demo here: http://www.sendspace.com/file/z5r0dz Good garage punk. I'm into it. Definitely going to try and put them on.

Hope you enjoyed the ramble.

R.I.P

MOUTH - Band of the Week

2010-05-10T08:31:00.000-07:00

Mouth are a new band from Leeds/Sheffield. I remember listening end of last year and immediately loving it and messaging them to play a show in Kingston. I had the pleasure of putting them on in March with a bunch of my fave uk bands and they were fucking amazing. They sound like Limp Wrist so you know its not shit. Here is their debut Demo 7" http://www.mediafire.com/?gmmhkgjaqmm Im putting them on again before they head off to Europe on tour with Closure, another rad and fast band from the north. Keep June 16th free, its gonna be an experiment as im putting the show on in Bacchus before Banquet Records' fortnightly punk/emo clubnight 'New Noise' gonna be fun. If you like listening to actual records then message the band and pick up the debut 7" and keep your eye out for an upcoming 4 way split with Bonestorm, Closure and Torn Apart, again all great bands mouthhc@hotmail.co.uk

I was meant to use this blog as a place to promote my upcoming shows but ive been super slack and failed. If anyone cares here is the flyer for the show Mouth played. Check out all the bands im pretty sure you will enjoy.

DIVIDERS - Band of the Week

2010-04-25T05:55:00.001-07:00

Ive been super slack with this blog lately but this post and upload will more than make up for it. Ive been waiting what seems like ages to hear some dividers and then they suddenly record an EP. Its fucking brilliant and im so stoked for them, on them and to see them one day. Dividers are four friends from Swansea who from a shared love of diy and get bent have formed a band and started playing some shows. This is a rad mix of get bent, some lifetime, bangers and clearly latterman influenced with some real good gruff vocals and yeah its just really really fucking good and super posi. if that sounds like your thing and it should be then download their first three track demo here: http://www.mediafire.com/?zwilj5ww2jw Gav kindly said i could do what i want with this so go nuts. The first press of physical copies has already sold out but keep an eye out for more. You can follow what they are doing on facebook.

Gav and Scott and Kat who is not in the band but is their manager also put rad diy shows on in swansea so check out whats coming up. See you at Deny Everything http://www.myspace.com/eluforecords

THISSSS IS HOWWWW WE WAAANT TO LIIIIVE!

stoked.

Post Shit Notes - Band of the Week

2010-04-04T05:41:00.000-07:00

I use myspace to message bands for shows, a result of this is everyday i get a shit loads of friend requests from awful bands. I swore when i started 'this music is my life' that i would listen to every band i received a request from as you can find some unknown gems. Im so glad i followed through with this as Post Shit Notes are one of those hidden gems.

They Come from Guildford, Surrey and play fuzzy, fun, poppy garage punk and its fucking great. They Have nothing out yet but have three songs up for download which ive been listening to non stop for weeks. The best thing about Post Shit Notes, besides the name which is frankly genius, is the english swagger they have. This band would not be out of place in the late 70s playing with the Buzzcocks. Here are the three songs they have http://www.mediafire.com/?llzolntkjel

Annoyingly they cant play any shows until after july as their singer/bassist is riding kangaroos in Australia. When he is backi will put em on.

Enjoy.

Grazes - Band of the Week

2010-04-04T04:53:00.000-07:00

Firstly, apologies to people who actually read this. Ive been super busy/slack but its Easter sunday and ive got nothing to do so here are some bands you should check out!

Grazes are the first band of hopefully many who messaged me and liked the blog and wanted me to upload their first release which came out only recently. From Sheffield they play Hardcore Punk that i cant put my finger on but its really good. Fast, growling and harsh vocals, riffz, some stomping parts and some great basslines. I cant say at all who i think they sound like but im sure you can. I need to either put this band on or go and see them soon. This is a shit post but im struggling to come up with what to say about Grazes so ill let their music do the talking: http://www.mediafire.com/?yojzfwt2tdz if you like this buy it HERE: http://grazes.bigcartel.com/

Thanks guys for putting me onto your band. Good stuff.

Tigers Jaw - Band of the Week

2010-03-14T17:25:00.001-07:00

Tigers Jaw play beautiful, upbeat and catchy music. Yet again another awesome band to come out of Philly and a band i had no idea were so popular over here. I went to a hardcore all dayer a few weeks ago and the Tigers Jaw LP was played over the PA the whole gig and loads of people were singing along. I thought id message the band and tell them this and see if i could upload their shit to my blog and Dennis kindly agreed. This is a long overdue post but there are just too many bands and not enough time! Anyways this is perfect summery pop punk/indiemo. If you dig Jawbreaker, Alkaline Trio, American Football, Slingshot Dakota, Lemuria and the like then im pretty sure you will fall in love with this. The album slays. Great mix of songs and one song that WILL get stuck in your head. I, like a lot of people, really hope this band comes over soon but the fact that Tigers Jaw havnt even toured the US yet shows we have a bit of a wait. They are still in college and lacking in funds but i imagine when they do come over it will be a big deal. Don't sleep on this. It rules

http://www.mediafire.com/?jo2wxz1mmye 2008 EP
http://www.mediafire.com/?mzjxwt5unjg LP

SPRAYNARD - This band could be your life

2010-03-14T14:10:00.001-07:00

2009 was all about Spraynard. From my best buddy Sean receiving an email from Sean of Runner Up Records (sweet label, get into it) with a link to their demo, to listening to it and being BLOWN AWAY and then getting to know them on facebook, helping book a uk tour, finally meeting them and then following the whole uk tour around in the summer and to top it all getting my first tattoo which was the Spraynard logo. This band and that tour encompass everything i love about music.

Mark, Pat and Dos are three vegan snack eating/ video gaming kids from West Chester, Pennsylvania and they are three of the nicest dudes you could ever meet. They have only been around a year and a half but have already released a demo tape, two splits and recently released their debut LP on Runner Up Records and all their releases rule. They play a sweet mix of Latterman/Get Bent and one of their best biggest influences is 'Plow United' an old West Chester band who they all grew up listening too and gave them the inspiration to start a band. Spraynard have been working hard to 'save' their scene by organising house shows, booking on tour bands to play their town and re energising a tired scene. An inspiration to any band just starting who prove that you can just pick up instruments, release records and tour the otherside of the world. A testiment to DIY.

Last summer i was living on a sofa, awaiting retakes and earning about 50 pounds a week to hold a sign in the street. I sold some records, saved two weeks wages and followed them around the country on mega buses and trains and in cars with my friends. It was one of the best times of my life and i have to thank anyone that put a show on, put me and my friends up and went and supported these guys, Break the Habit for being their tour buddies and making it happen and Spraynard for actually coming over! Special thanks to Sean for ensuring it was one of the best times of my life.

Ive uploaded the discog so go nuts. You can still buy the LP in most distros and from Runner Up Records, buy the Dave House LP too, he and it are the best. You can pick up the splits too, keep your eyes open.

http://www.mediafire.com/?wzycin2mjzl DEMO

http://www.mediafire.com/?zbrdtz2zyn3 Captain We're sinking Split

http://www.mediafire.com/?ymmdyimniwe Break the Habit Split

http://www.mediafire.com/?tz2ek2jnmny Debut Album, Cut and Paste

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Comadre - DIY OR DIE

2010-03-08T16:17:00.000-08:00

Comadre are fucking rad! It took me a while to realise this despite seeing them destroy a warehouse at Fest 7. About 6 months ago i finally took the time to check em out and was blown away by the record 'Burn Your Bones' Its frantic, its angry, its melodic in places and then full on screamo and it plain fucking rules. Just from looking through pics i can see that their shows are insane and people go mental for this band and rightly so. If you dig Ampere, Refused and Punch then you will be into this.

Hailing from RADwood City, California, Comadre are as DIY as they come. Following 5 years of destruction they have released two LPs, couple of EPs, a split, a ridiculous amount of tours across the world and made a bunch of friends along the way.

They have their own blog where they upload mixtapes that include their songs and their friend's bands. Ive discovered some cool bands through this in particular awesome hip-hop band ATLAS and raging hardcore in the form of Glasses so thanks Comadre. Check it out: http://www.siqdrugfront.com/comadre/

Kenny has kindly said its cool for me to upload some stuff so here are their two LPs and one mixtape for you to check out. I guarantee you will be screaming along in 5 listens max.

Burn Your Bones: http://www.mediafire.com/?zwkze2nymwg

A Wolf Ticket: http://www.mediafire.com/?wmyidtmgqcm

Mixtape Vol 2: http://www.mediafire.com/?lzyyqdjze55

I'm unbelievably stoked to say that they are coming to the uk in July with Punch http://www.myspace.com/punchcrew and yeah go see them or fail forever. Ill post up the dates closer to the time.

SHOOK ONES - Band of the Week

2010-03-08T13:08:00.001-08:00

Shook Ones are from Seattle, Washington and they play melodic hardcore punk better than everyone else. If you like Kid Dynamite and Lifetime then you will either love this or the chances are you love them already. Facetious Folly Feat is one of the definitive bedroom dancing/moshing albums and continually blows my mind. On the split with Easel they wrote one of the greatest songs of all time in 'order form' which is basically a letter from the singer to his girlfriend telling her he cannot marry her when same sex marriage is still not legal. Their lyrics are poignant, their singalongs are heartfelt and they write the catchies and most danceable songs around. Im amazed the singer has any throat left from the way he sings. One of the most honest, hardworking and consistent bands around and every time i see them its a total party with all my friends. Not many bands come close to making me feel even half as much as shooks do. Ive travelled far and wide to see them and will continue to do so until they stop and i hope they never do.

One of the coolest things ive ever been a part of is this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5C2eHbiXrQ im like an excited school boy in this and it fills me with joy.

I have been given permission to upload their entire discography by the guitarist and im shit with names so totally forgotten what he was called. Anyway here it is before i seriously embarrass myself talking about this band.

Facetious Folly Feat: http://www.mediafire.com/?dvdnrrjeznw
Sixteen: http://www.mediafire.com/?mgw5mmyznzy
The Unquoteable A.M.H: http://www.mediafire.com/?wqninzezzzm
Slaughter of the Insole: http://www.mediafire.com/?yagwryq4rcy
Easel Split: *disclaimer* order form will change your life: http://www.mediafire.com/?nzn2yynuy13
End of a Year Split: http://www.mediafire.com/?tdjlvgmj3mk
Demo: http://www.mediafire.com/?n3nydnaztjm

Self Destruct - UK Hardcore RIP

2010-03-02T13:45:00.001-08:00

Self Destruct are a ridiculously underrated UK hardcore band who are sadly defunct now but i feel you need to know about them. Hailing from Leeds, they started in 2005 and finished i guess in 2008. I asked to put them on and got a reply saying we are finished, i hope i wasnt the reason haha! Im assuming the name is in reference to the Adolescents song of the same name so you can tell this is gonna be ripping 80s influenced hardcore. That is exactly what you get but with the addition of a rock n roll tinge. They clearly love Negative Approach and bands like Government Warning, Adolescents and Zero Boys (Even cover 'Outta style') I never got to see this band and im massively bummed out about this as the two 7"s i have are sweet. The second one 'All my friends are dead' has the BEST artwork as you can see in the pic on the left, i urge you to buy this record and the other one for the artwork alone. You can play find all the hardcore records on the sleeve.

I havnt asked permission coz i didnt want to wait ages for a response but here is the debut Self Titled 7" and the second 7". As always buy these if you can. Enjoy. Spread the word. Band rules. RIP

http://www.mediafire.com/?bbvdj3xyzr1
http://www.mediafire.com/?ntyoxwwyynv

I miss The Steal

2010-02-23T18:29:00.000-08:00

You say, 'I can't wait for the weekend to come'
So put on the clothes and lets have some fun
I'll get wasted and start some fights
I love being a punk on a saturday night.

For me, its pretty different
because this music is my life,
we spend all week building back up,
what you destroy with no insight.

So are you going to the show? (at the weekend)
And staying at home (on the weekdays)
Expecting everything to come to you.
So are you going to the show? (at the weekend)
And staying at home (on the weekdays)
Complaining there's nothing to do

So now you've got your own band
and you expect everyone to come,
to see you play on a week day,
And 'bring this town some fun'

But you havnt got a clue
About the scenes and all the crews,
We just havnt got the time or patience,
For a weekend punk like you.

So are you going to the show? (at the weekend)
Are you staying at home (on the weekdays)
Expecting everything to come to you.
Are you going to the show? (at the weekend)
Are you staying at home (on the weekdays)
Complaining there's nothing to do.

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

RVIVR - GET YOUR ASS OUT THE FRONT DOOR

2010-02-23T17:50:00.001-08:00

RVIVR = FUN

Following the demise of Shorebirds everyone wondered if Matt Canino formerly of Latterman would form another band and thankfully he did and personally i prefer them. RVIVR play fast and fun pop punk not too dissimilar from Shorebirds but with with extra oomph in the form of Erica's vocals. The boy/girl harmonies and dual vocals perfectly compliment each other and i daily get the lyric 'GET YOUR ASS OUT THE FRONT DOOR' stuck in my head, im pretty sure ive mentioned that on here before. Anyone its late and im tired so here are their two 7"s. Erica kindly said i could upload them so check em out if you love Latterman (who doesnt) Banner Pilot, Dear Landlord, Get Bent etc etc. Hopefully coming to the UK this year and also writing an LP as you read this.

This is really really good. Please dont split up so i can see you live. Thanks.

http://www.mediafire.com/?wgnxxmzduw2 - Life Moves 7"

http://www.mediafire.com/?ztda2iwnyzz - DERAILER 7"

Caves - Band of the Week

2010-02-23T16:38:00.002-08:00

Sorry ive been super slack lately but i now have a new home in Kingston so regular posts should resume.

Caves are from Bristol, England and play super catchy, simple and fun pop punk in a Discount, Lemuria, Superchunk kinda vein.

My good friend David Brent (yeah i know, surreal right?) plays drums in Caves and Puts on gigs in Bristol and is very proud of his band and has kindly allowed me to upload the tracks from their debut 7" which is out now on Specialist Subject Records, Andrew from Bangers' rad DIY label so go support him and buy it you monkeys: http://shop.specialistsubjectrecords.co.uk/product/191037/Caves--st-7-pre-order_1201073.html Until then download the 4 track 7" HERE: http://www.mediafire.com/?rjmymkmn22z

Caves are about to embark on a european tour with Young Livers and Bridge and Tunnel having only played a handful of UK gigs which is cracking work. I wish them all the luck and fun. They have just been announced to play the Next Punk n Bowl in London with Leatherface, Above Them and a bunch more so keep an eye on that but most excitingly they are one half of the tour support for the GOOD LUCK tour, a phenomonal band from the USA who i will blog about soon, i promise. Even more exciting than that is I GOT THE KINGSTON SHOW! So yeah, stick July 23rd in your diaries and get stoked. I am. Holy moly.

wooooooooaaaaaahhhhhhh!

Eagle Boys - Rad Garage punk from London

2010-02-08T15:29:00.000-08:00

Can't find a pic, if you have one, hook me up please :)

A few weeks ago i got talking to a lovely man named Giles in the Fighting Cocks, Kingston and he told me about his old Garage Punk Band 'The Eagle Boys'. I was under the impression The Shitty Limits spawned the garage punk revival but it seems Eagle Boys did all along and the Shitty Limits played their first show with Eagle Boys.

Anyway. This is rad. Sounds like Angry Samoans, Regulations blah blah blah. I think Ellis is re- releasing this on Static Shock but in the mean time download the 7" below. Giles Said it was cool. Wish id seen this band. Great garage punk.

http://www.mediafire.com/?mtryi23mqg5
http://www.mediafire.com/?glwzm0dmmmu

Download this, tell your friends and get dancing.

Band of the Week - Never Again

2010-02-08T13:52:00.000-08:00

I did something i rarely do on sunday which im glad i did but wont be repeating. Chris, singer of Hang the Bastard www.myspace.com/hangthebastardlondon put on an all day mosh fest called 'Carry on Moshing' on in Camden at the Purple Turtle. i really dont like the 'mosh' side of hardcore and especially hate the violence that nearly always comes with it, this show being no exception with one guy taking it upon himself to make me hate him in the space of 5 seconds. I primarily came to this to see some friends, watch Abolition and Hang the Bastard and check out relatively new London Straight Edge band: Never Again. They have only been around since June 2009 but have already released two demo tapes and a 7", toured europe once and had hardcore kids across london going mental for them and are slowly making waves across the country. Never Again are a breath of fresh air for me and fill the gap that Nowhere Fast left (RIP :( )

I was sent the demos a few weeks ago and was impressed, catchy, really fast and the vocals were sick. 'enough is enough' immediately caught my attention and they reminded me of fast point and the first outbreak 7" so i looked forward to catching them live. They didnt disappoint, Luke may be one of the best frontmen ive seen in ages and they were triple the speed of the mp3s i had and the crowd went CRAZY, the song 'iron youth' in particular. They wear their beliefs on their sleeves and write songs from the heart and are definitely a london hardcore band im going to make sure i see more of. I just confirmed them to headline a sweet show im putting on march 28th @ the Fighting Cocks with Attack! Vipers! Mouth, Bonestorm and Can't Relate. You should come and see what the fuss is about for yourself, its justified.

I wish there were more bands in the UK that played this kind of hardcore. go see em live. They tour a lot. Luke kindly said i could upload their three releases so check em out below:

Pressure 7" http://www.mediafire.com/?oem2z5zdt1m

Repulsed Demo tape: http://www.mediafire.com/?dl2yezjomuw

No Sympathy Demo Tape: http://www.mediafire.com/?qznz4yyy0nz

Thanks to Chris for putting on the show. No thanks to the violent prick.

Zero Boys - Vicious Circle

2010-01-26T14:27:00.000-08:00

I don't think enough people are aware of the brilliance of Zero Boys. Hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana they surprised everyone with one of the best Hardcore Records of the 80's (1982). With the hardcore scene being centred around LA, Washington and New York, Zero Boys came of out of nowhere with their buzzing guitars, soaring choruses, teen angst and socially aware lyrics. You could describe them as a faster, harder Ramones. They set a precedent for hardcore punk bands today and will continue to influence bands for many years to come.

Download this seminal record below. I reckon/hope they will come to the UK soon, they headlined No Way Fest last year and the live videos look insane.

One of my favourite records ever. Hope you love it as much

http://www.mediafire.com/?zmoynnnom5e

Welcome to the vicious circle

Wasted Time - Band of the Week

2010-01-26T12:42:00.000-08:00

Wasted Time are in my opinion one of the best hardcore bands of our generation. Another rad hardcore band from Richmond, Virginia and on Grave Mistake Records one of the best labels in the US. They play fast, no bullshit and angry as fuck hardcore and i cant be bothered to say what they sound like i just urge you to download the discography ive uploaded below. I could not believe it when i got to see them last year in Brighton year and they totally stole the show over Government Warning. Listen to Hostage, track 1 on the 'No Shore' EP and prepare to mosh. I really hope i get to see them again as its a treat. Mark has kindly allowed me to upload everything they have released. So below is their 2 7"s and debut LP which came out last year and if you don't suck buy them from Grave Mistake and support Alex who runs that label and played in Wasted Time when they came over to the UK. http://www.gravemistakerecords.com/catalog/advanced_search_result.php?osCsid=2fa417919b8e5aa914e913942a7b80fe&keywords=wasted+time&osCsid=2fa417919b8e5aa914e913942a7b80fe

Im looking into Going to Chaos de Tejas in Austin, Texas in May to see them with a bunch of other amazing bands including Marked Men. You should come!

No Shore 7" http://www.mediafire.com/?i3olttwth4z

Wasted Time 7" http://www.mediafire.com/?w1kqoglmtd2

Futility LP http://www.mediafire.com/?cz4minn2lli

EVERYDAY I BECOME MORE INSAAAAAANE

www.myspace.com/wastedtimesucks

Urban Blight - Band of the Week

2010-01-20T17:13:00.000-08:00

I don't know whats in the water over in Canada but i want some! So many rad bands: Career Suicide, Tranzmitors, Urban Blight, Statues, Marvelous Darlings... i could go on forever. www.myspace.com/urbanblight are from Toronto, Canada and released one of my favourite releases of 2009 with debut LP 'More Reality'. Clocking in at just under 12 minutes, from the first chord and drum beat you are immediately thrown into a frenzy by the most frantic, energetic and angry songs and when i first heard it i just thought 'this must slay live' Im not that knowledgeable on this sorta hardcore but id say they sound like Negative Approach, SOA and ive been told, Agnostic Front. All i know is this LP from start to finish rips and is an aural assault and its fucking brilliant. its been my record of choice for a while when im really pissed off and need to let off steam and its helped a lot. John Falco of Career Suicide fame produced this too so you know it sounds great. You can buy it from Slasher Records HERE: http://slasherrecords.com/index.html and ace distro 'Static Shock' stocks it too: http://staticshockrecords.vstore.ca/product_info.php/pName/urban-blight-more-reality-lp/cName/distro-lps Michael from Urban Blight has kindly allowed me to upload it for your listening pleasure. I do urge you to buy it though coz its seriously good and will make you mosh in your room. http://www.mediafire.com/?ymoqmmmwdzm

Coming over end of the summer i hope i can put em on!

I HATE THIS FUCKING LIFE

Can't Relate

2010-01-19T14:29:00.000-08:00

Can't Relate are righteous (i'm trying to bring it back, i'm failing) They play Straight Edge in a Limp Wrist, Siege, Negative Approach vein and are about to release their debut ep. From London, you will usually see them opening at tough guy hardcore shows and they are wasted on these kinda bills which is a shame. Can't relate have some super poppy guitar lines but the raging vocals make you want to strangle things. One of the best things about this band is the lyrics. 'No means no' being very poignant and talking about rape. There are no gimmicks or bullshit with these guys. This is straight up passionate, no frills hardcore addressing real and important issues and i fucking love it. First saw them in a house and thought they were awesome and then helped them get on the Reagan Youth Kingston show. Im putting them on in March with a bunch of rad hardcore bands so keep your eyes peeled for that one. These guys are all friends, diy as fuck and just want to play shows. They formed because of Punch and live for that band. Not much else to say apart from here is their myspace: http://www.myspace.com/xcantrelatex and here is that song i mentioned above from their soon to be released 'inhumane ep' http://www.mediafire.com/?wl4c4ydnfmm

Go see em live and if you are a promoter reading this, please put on em a Comadre/Punch show if you got a date. They would be seriously stoked

Brothers

2010-01-15T06:27:00.000-08:00

Brothers are another super good band from Exeter who play real good punk rock. I had never seen them until Punk N Bowl last december and i was very impressed. Think None More Black vocals and guitar lines, the best bits of New Mexican Disaster Squad coupled with some sweet female backing vocals. Total winner. They have just embarked on a mini tour and i am seeing them tomorrow in Portsmouth which will be fun. This tour ties in with the release of their debut ep which they have kindly put up for download on their myspace: http://www.myspace.com/brothersofexeter you should check it out. I hope to see a lot more of this band in 2010, definitely one to keep an eye on. A band totally after my heart too as they cover Weezer, i screamed along to 'El Scorcho' at P n B. The singer Ben was the drummer in Dead City Stereo who i have already posted about and Rez the Drummer also drums for Sauna Youth who i have also posted about so if you havnt already, check both of those bands out too.

Oh, get this! http://brothersofexeter.bigcartel.com/product/brits-abroad-split-7

Formaldehyde Junkies - Band of the Decade

2010-01-15T05:46:00.000-08:00

If you know me at all then you would have heard me mention/rave about this band and i cannot thank Ellis the bassist of the Shitty Limits enough for introducing me to this band.

Formaldehyde Junkies were an 80s hardcore rehash band from Minneapolis, Minnesota and are in my opinion one of the best bands of the last decade. I dont think a day has passed since i got into this band that i have not listened to their first record '... are a total wreck' Its faster than anyone else, the guitar blows my mind, the vocals are frantic and snotty and the drumming is ridiculous. The songs are catchy and make you want to run around smashing shit up. I cannot speak highly enough of this band. Sadly split up now although i pray for a reformation every day i listen. The singer runs a rad label called 'Fashionable Idiots' http://www.myspace.com/fashionableidiotsrecords and a few bands i highly recommend are Retainers, Rot Shit and Out with a Bang, although you should listen to every band on that label really. Fjunkies were only around for a few years and released two 7s, a song on the 'Public Safety' Maximum Rock n Roll Comp and a demo. Ive uploaded the two 7"s for your aural pleasure. If you dig Koro, minor threat and fast as fuck hardcore you will love this. I promise. No one i have recommended this band too has had anything negative to say so get on this.

'.... Are a Total Wreck': http://www.mediafire.com/?mdlqmdem1nn
S/T: http://www.mediafire.com/?33tmuv4mh1g

Cold Ones (are gonna ruin your night)

2010-01-01T07:44:00.000-08:00

Cold Ones are another one of those bands that sum up the spirit and meaning of DIY punk. A band doing it for themselves, with their friends and having fun but being fucking brilliant all the same. They Come from Liverpool and play a unique thrash/hardcore/street-punk sound that cant really be pigeonholed. writing mainly about skateboarding, drinking (hence the name) and how messed up the world is they are a band you cannot appreciate fully until you see them live. The records are great but live they are something else. They have arguably one of the most intense, crazy and in my opinion best frontmen in the UK, shredding guitars and they always look like they are having fun when they play and genuinely glad to be playing which is a rare thing these days. They all either skate or ride BMX, most of them draw for fun and for skate companies (singer russ does this: http://www.myspace.com/sketchstance http://sketchstance.blogspot.com/ and he just sent me a sweet calender which he makes every year. They print their own t shirts, i asked for a pink one and i received a pink one, book their own tours and are some of the friendliest dudes i know. They will happily camp out in the woods after a show and they are all about the adventure of being on the road. Songs like 'Get in the Van' sum this band are up me.

One of the shows of 2009 for me was seeing Cold Ones at 1am in the tiny St Moritz Club in Soho, london. They went insane, The crowd went insane, the walls were jagged and hurt but no one seemed to care. This band will go into a frenzy and drag you down with them but you will love every second. They recently stole the show at Punk N Bowl in london and it seems people are finally taking notice who should have a long time ago. They have announced a tour across the UK supporting Jamie T, i urge you to go to a date if you can. Check out their myspace for upcoming tour dates: http://www.myspace.com/coldonesinyergut and buy their records if they have any left!

I could talk about this band all day as i love everything about them and ive had the pleasure of putting them on twice and everytime ive seen them its always been amazing. I'll shut up and let their music do the talking. I have permission to upload everything they have released so far so here you go, Happy New Years, go drink some Cold Ones:

CRACK IT DEMO: First release i think http://www.mediafire.com/?liyjmkj1jbe
S/T 7": The first record i heard by them that made me go see 'em live http://www.mediafire.com/?322wmnthyid
Stay Thirsty: 2nd 7" http://www.mediafire.com/?3lny35hwwkm
Mr Miyagi Split: Latest 7" http://www.mediafire.com/?zgwzgtgnmnw
Disappearing man: from the 5 Way Town Clock Records split http://www.mediafire.com/?tzmm4o2jzaz

Enjoy and please do go see them live!

GET IN THE VAN! THE ONLY WAY TO BE!

Dead City Stereo - Band of the Week

2009-12-30T15:23:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-29T09:40:00.001-08:00

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

2009-12-18T09:13:00.000-08:00

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!

2009-12-17T07:33:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-15T04:01:00.001-08:00

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

2009-12-13T06:38:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-13T05:05:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-11T15:17:00.000-08:00

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.htm records.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

2009-11-29T12:13:00.001-08:00

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

2009-11-22T09:48:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-17T15:14:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-17T08:48:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-11T11:25:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

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'

2009-11-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-10T12:19:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-10T06:56:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-10T03:15:00.000-08:00

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+B oys 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

2009-11-09T03:20:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-05T03:27:00.001-08:00

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

2009-11-03T08:23:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

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

2009-10-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-24T04:30:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-23T17:27:00.000-07:00

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/thesceptresthesce ptres 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

2009-10-23T17:01:00.000-07:00

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

Sauna Youth

2009-10-23T16:38:00.000-07:00

So the Steal split up last month and already Rich, the drummer and Lindsay, the guitarist have a new band called http://www.myspace.com/saunayouth and they sound awesome. Think a less raw Regulations. I have been informed they will be releasing a demo tape and want to play shows. I for one am excited. 'Vacuous idiot' is a brilliant slice of garage punk.

The name is a reference from a Black Flag tour where the band went to a sauna and were dubbed by some kids 'Sauna Youth' If you dont know who Black Flag are then download this: http://www.mediafire.com/?1ongdnmmggp and have your mind blown.

Hi

2009-10-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

Having said that id start a blog during the summer i thought it was about time i did so hear it is. I just failed my degree and have had to move home and have a lot of spare time on my hands so im going to use this blog as a place to ramble about anything music that tickles my fancy and also review records, shows, upload some songs i think you might like and use it as a place to promote bands i love and hopefully the shows im going to start putting on when i get a job.

So yeah, this will be choc full of bad grammer, opinions, an attempt at knowing what im talking about and some rad music.

Hope you enjoy.

Oh, the name 'this music is my life' is inspired by one of my favourite bands and the band that got me into hardcore, the genre i now listen too most, The Steal http://www.thesteal.co.uk/ you can download everything they have released/done for free as they recently split up, the fuckers. Just click on 'records' on the left and enjoy. One of the most inspirational, honest and amazing bands to exist, the song Worldwide world pretty much changed my life. Who knows, i could be at law school right now heading toward a future of boredom and 9-5.

Hope you enjoy reading this as much im going to enjoy writing it and hopefully you will get something out of it.

Thanks, Stephen

Listening now: http://www.myspace.com/marvelousdarlings amazing super fun power pop fromToronto, Canada featuring Ben (Career Suicide)

this music is my life

Holy (Italy)

DRY HEAVES

The Observers

Spraynard - Funtitled

Nona

Crash of Rhinos - Distal

Loose Cannons

I Saved Latin

SSSSNAKES - KISSSS THISSSS

Dividers/Ten Speed Bicycle Split

Belated Releases of 2010

Some Sort of Threat (RORY) Dude of the Week

Snowing - Band of the week

Hit the Beach - Discography

Arteries - Dead Sea (New Album)

Jean Mills Society Torch

Crazy Spirit - Band of the Week

Nomos - Discography

Pacer - debut 10" out now

Myles Pereira - Of Pears and Figs

Cynics

Atlas: Beauty and the Blues

Modernettes

Curb Crawl

Band of the Week: GOOD LUCK - UK TOUR

http://www.mediafire.com/?a9feab6gbc16h4b2010 Demo:

http://www.mediafire.com/?zgyab904uf508jiEnjoy and hopefully see you at a show.

RVIVR LP. UK Tour in OCTOBER!

Street Smart Cyclist - Band of the Week

Pirouette - Thinking in Subtitles

GROWN UPS - Band of 2010

10 Speed Bicycle - Band of the week

The Wipers - Band of the Week

The Real Kids

The Killers - Not the shit one

Charles Bronson

Long live the Exploding Hearts

MEAN JEANS - Your new favourite band

Statues - Band of the Week

NOWHERE FAST RIP :(

MOUTH - Band of the Week

DIVIDERS - Band of the Week

Post Shit Notes - Band of the Week

Grazes - Band of the Week

Tigers Jaw - Band of the Week

SPRAYNARD - This band could be your life

Comadre - DIY OR DIE

SHOOK ONES - Band of the Week

Self Destruct - UK Hardcore RIP

I miss The Steal

RVIVR - GET YOUR ASS OUT THE FRONT DOOR

Caves - Band of the Week

Eagle Boys - Rad Garage punk from London

Band of the Week - Never Again

Zero Boys - Vicious Circle

Wasted Time - Band of the Week

Urban Blight - Band of the Week

Can't Relate

Brothers

Formaldehyde Junkies - Band of the Decade

Cold Ones (are gonna ruin your night)

Dead City Stereo - Band of the Week

Koro - 700 Club Ep

SAUNA YOUTH - DEMO DOWNLOAD

Dead Milkmen are FUN!

This Music is My Life - Gig #1

ssssnakes/Bangers split

Top 12 songs of 2009

Top Ten - Releases of 2009

Lemuria - band of the week

Fashanu- Band of the Week

Grown Ups

By Surprise- Band of the Week

Slingshot Dakota

Saturday's Kids

Men - 'Norwichmo'

Ringers - R.I.P

91 song mix

The Snazzy Boys/Sedatives/Aggravation

http://www.mediafire.com/?a9feab6gbc16h4b

2010 Demo:

http://www.mediafire.com/?zgyab904uf508ji

Enjoy and hopefully see you at a show.