Having seen the Ayrshire trio perform at T in the Park quite a few times over the years I wasn’t sure if the SECC was the best choice of venue for them to play their largest headline show (not counting festivals). However, Biffy Clyro proved that they can play any venue and are more than capable of handling the big ones.
They kicked off in explosive fashion with Living is a Problem Because Everything Dies performed through a curtain with the crowd only seeing their silhouettes before the sheet dramatically dropped as they finished before they blasted straight into Saturday Superhouse.
They seamlessly performed tracks from their last release, Puzzle and previous albums which were all well received by the crowd. Several tracks had such a grand feel due to the accompaniment of an all-girl string quartet, although the lads were still able to show their tender side on other tracks.
Simon performed a touching acoustic version of Folding Stars, the song he wrote following the death of his mother. The trio then went straight into Machines, another heartfelt number which had the crowd singing along to every word.
The strings accompaniment, especially on Nine Fifteenths was haunting and really set Biffy apart from other rock bands.
The tempo was raised again with Glitter and Trauma and Mountains had the crowd singing again before 57 and Now the Action Is on Fire finished off the night.
The guys looked amazingly comfortable as they delivered ninety minutes of pure excellent rock music; these guys were born to do this.
Set List:
Living Is a Problem Because Everything Dies
Saturday Superhouse
A Whole Child Ago
Get Fucked Stud
Joy.Discovery.Invention
The Ideal Height
9/15ths
27
Semi-Mental
Convex, Concave
Folding Stars Acoustic
Machines
Glitter and Trauma
Justboy
Love Has a Diameter
Who's Got A Match?
Only One Word Comes To Mind
Mountains
Encore:
Now I'm Everyone
As Dust Dances
57
Now The Action Is On Fire!
Reviewer: Starlet
Wednesday 31 December 2008
Wednesday 24 December 2008
The Fratellis – SECC, Glasgow – 21st December 2008
Well, what a night! Considering it was the last night of their tour, the Glasgow trio were so full of energy and looked as though they were enjoying it as much as we were. When I first heard about the venue change I was a little concerned that there would be a lack of atmosphere in the SECC’s Hall3, however, The Fratellis proved me so wrong.
Their standards for the night were set when they kicked off with the best version of ‘Cuntry Boys 'n Girls’ that I’ve heard them do. They romped through old and new tracks with gusto, boosting the excitement in the crowd as they went. The energy levels onstage were more than matched offstage, the atmosphere was electric. Although at one point I thought I’d had it as I was getting knocked about by the boisterous Glasgow crowd.
Their rendition of ‘Stragglers' Moon’ was stunning with a psychedelic backdrop that added to the eerie guitar work. The crowd calmed down a bit when ‘Whistle for the Choir’ and ‘Vince the Lovable Stoner’ prompted a mass sing-along.
The pace picked back up again with the rowdy ‘Chelsea Dagger’ and also when the guys started rocking out with ‘Dog In a Bag’ and ‘Tell Me a Lie’ allowed the band the opportunity to get real heavy and one track followed another with the crowd clearly enjoying the pace, the variety and the sheer quality of the music.
Ending the gig with ‘Milk and Money’ provided a fantastic ending before the band returned to the stage for an encore, playing ‘Mistress Mabel’, ‘Acid Jazz Singer’ and ‘Baby Fratelli’ which whipped the crowd into a frenzy once more. Finishing what had been an absolutely brilliant night on a definite high…What a way to start Christmas!
Setlist:
Cuntry Boys and City Girls
My Friend John
Vince The Loveable Stoner
Look Out Sunshine
Henrietta
A Heady Tale Doginabag
Tell Me A Lie
Whistle For The Choir
Stragglers Moon
Chelsea Dagger
Flathead
Lupe Brown
Ole Black 'N' Blue Eyes
Shameless
Got Ma Nuts From A Hippy
Milk And Money
Mistress Mabel
Acid Jazz Singer
Baby Fratelli
Starlet
Their standards for the night were set when they kicked off with the best version of ‘Cuntry Boys 'n Girls’ that I’ve heard them do. They romped through old and new tracks with gusto, boosting the excitement in the crowd as they went. The energy levels onstage were more than matched offstage, the atmosphere was electric. Although at one point I thought I’d had it as I was getting knocked about by the boisterous Glasgow crowd.
Their rendition of ‘Stragglers' Moon’ was stunning with a psychedelic backdrop that added to the eerie guitar work. The crowd calmed down a bit when ‘Whistle for the Choir’ and ‘Vince the Lovable Stoner’ prompted a mass sing-along.
The pace picked back up again with the rowdy ‘Chelsea Dagger’ and also when the guys started rocking out with ‘Dog In a Bag’ and ‘Tell Me a Lie’ allowed the band the opportunity to get real heavy and one track followed another with the crowd clearly enjoying the pace, the variety and the sheer quality of the music.
Ending the gig with ‘Milk and Money’ provided a fantastic ending before the band returned to the stage for an encore, playing ‘Mistress Mabel’, ‘Acid Jazz Singer’ and ‘Baby Fratelli’ which whipped the crowd into a frenzy once more. Finishing what had been an absolutely brilliant night on a definite high…What a way to start Christmas!
Setlist:
Cuntry Boys and City Girls
My Friend John
Vince The Loveable Stoner
Look Out Sunshine
Henrietta
A Heady Tale Doginabag
Tell Me A Lie
Whistle For The Choir
Stragglers Moon
Chelsea Dagger
Flathead
Lupe Brown
Ole Black 'N' Blue Eyes
Shameless
Got Ma Nuts From A Hippy
Milk And Money
Mistress Mabel
Acid Jazz Singer
Baby Fratelli
Starlet
Tuesday 23 December 2008
Iconic London Music Venue, The Astoria, to Close for Good
London music venue, The Astoria, is set to close its doors for good in January.
The celebrated venue, a converted cinema, in the heart of the West End has announced that Ibiza's ‘Manumission club’ will host its final night on the 15th of January.
The venue will be knocked down to make way for a new railway station as part of the Crossrail project that will install a new line linking the east and west of the capital. Fellow central London music venue, Metro, will also be demolished as a result of the building developments.
The Astoria’s closing night sees Manumission return to England, for the first time in 15 years. The full line-up will be announced in the New Year for ‘Manumission Comes to London’.
Manumission is set to start a world tour of clubs, after playing the Astoria's closing night.
It is not clear what will happen to other gigs scheduled to take place at the venue after the 15th of January yet, although they are expected to be moved to other venues.
The celebrated venue, a converted cinema, in the heart of the West End has announced that Ibiza's ‘Manumission club’ will host its final night on the 15th of January.
The venue will be knocked down to make way for a new railway station as part of the Crossrail project that will install a new line linking the east and west of the capital. Fellow central London music venue, Metro, will also be demolished as a result of the building developments.
The Astoria’s closing night sees Manumission return to England, for the first time in 15 years. The full line-up will be announced in the New Year for ‘Manumission Comes to London’.
Manumission is set to start a world tour of clubs, after playing the Astoria's closing night.
It is not clear what will happen to other gigs scheduled to take place at the venue after the 15th of January yet, although they are expected to be moved to other venues.
Monday 22 December 2008
Warner Pulls Music Videos From YouTube
Warner Music Group has told video sharing site, YouTube to remove all music video clips by its artists from the site, after they failed to reach an agreement on how the label should be compensated for music videos.
As a result, Google is forced to remove thousands of videos from YouTube.
Furthermore, YouTube's agreement with the major labels applies to official videos as well as unofficial videos. Therefore users, who have uploaded videos with a Warner Music Group song as the soundtrack, have received or will receive a takedown notice from the label.
Users will get the chance to keep their videos online if they agree to swap the music. YouTube offers its Audioswap feature. This allows users who have uploaded a video clip which uses Warner's music, to select new music for their video.
The original deal made in 2006 allowed Warner's material to be used legally on YouTube in return for advertising revenue. It was hailed as a landmark agreement paving the way for deals with other music publishers.
However, the music company is now asking for its all videos, official and unofficial, to be removed from the website as it was not happy with the revenue-sharing equation.
Warner said in a statement that the company is “working actively” with YouTube to find a resolution on licensing its content to the top online video site. "Until then, we simply cannot accept the terms that fail to appropriately and fairly compensate recording artists, songwriters, labels and publishers for the value they provide."
In a statement on the YouTube blog, the company, which is owned by Google, said:
"Every day we work with the music community to license your favourite music for you to use on YouTube. But music licensing is very complicated.”
"Sometimes, if we can't reach acceptable business terms, we must part ways with successful partners. For example, you may notice videos that contain music owned by Warner Music Group being blocked from the site."
The video sharing site added that its ultimate goal was "to treat everyone fairly".
As a result, Google is forced to remove thousands of videos from YouTube.
Furthermore, YouTube's agreement with the major labels applies to official videos as well as unofficial videos. Therefore users, who have uploaded videos with a Warner Music Group song as the soundtrack, have received or will receive a takedown notice from the label.
Users will get the chance to keep their videos online if they agree to swap the music. YouTube offers its Audioswap feature. This allows users who have uploaded a video clip which uses Warner's music, to select new music for their video.
The original deal made in 2006 allowed Warner's material to be used legally on YouTube in return for advertising revenue. It was hailed as a landmark agreement paving the way for deals with other music publishers.
However, the music company is now asking for its all videos, official and unofficial, to be removed from the website as it was not happy with the revenue-sharing equation.
Warner said in a statement that the company is “working actively” with YouTube to find a resolution on licensing its content to the top online video site. "Until then, we simply cannot accept the terms that fail to appropriately and fairly compensate recording artists, songwriters, labels and publishers for the value they provide."
In a statement on the YouTube blog, the company, which is owned by Google, said:
"Every day we work with the music community to license your favourite music for you to use on YouTube. But music licensing is very complicated.”
"Sometimes, if we can't reach acceptable business terms, we must part ways with successful partners. For example, you may notice videos that contain music owned by Warner Music Group being blocked from the site."
The video sharing site added that its ultimate goal was "to treat everyone fairly".
Saturday 20 December 2008
Biffy Clyro to Headline RockNess 2009
Scottish rock trio Biffy Clyro will headline the final day of next summers RockNess festival. Other acts already confirmed to play are The Prodigy, Basement Jaxx and Dizzee Rascal.
RockNess 2009 offers more than ever before with a headlining act on the inaugural Friday night with an extended performance from the Main Stage.
Headlining on the Main Stage on Saturday 13th June, in their first festival date for two years, is the unstoppable sonic force that is Basement Jaxx with support from Dizzy Rascal.
Sunday 14th June, promises to be a memorable end to the Highland festival as The Prodigy and Biffy Clyro will take to the stage to bring the Scottish gig to a close.
RockNess 2009 will feature Nesstival, back again with The Black Isle Pub, The Bollywood Cocktail Bar, The Rock Ness Farm Café, organic food stalls and the best Ceilidh bands in the Wrongness Arena.
RockNess 2009 takes place from 12th June to 14th June 2009, in Dores, Scotland next summer. More acts to be confirmed.
RockNess 2009 offers more than ever before with a headlining act on the inaugural Friday night with an extended performance from the Main Stage.
Headlining on the Main Stage on Saturday 13th June, in their first festival date for two years, is the unstoppable sonic force that is Basement Jaxx with support from Dizzy Rascal.
Sunday 14th June, promises to be a memorable end to the Highland festival as The Prodigy and Biffy Clyro will take to the stage to bring the Scottish gig to a close.
RockNess 2009 will feature Nesstival, back again with The Black Isle Pub, The Bollywood Cocktail Bar, The Rock Ness Farm Café, organic food stalls and the best Ceilidh bands in the Wrongness Arena.
RockNess 2009 takes place from 12th June to 14th June 2009, in Dores, Scotland next summer. More acts to be confirmed.
Friday 19 December 2008
Glasgow’s New Festival, Hinterland April 2009
2009 sees the launch of an exciting new two day multi-venue festival in Glasgow. Hinterland, the first single ticket multi-venue art and music event, runs from 30th April to 1st May 2009.
Launched to celebrate Glasgow's UNESCO status as a world centre of music, the new festival aims to showcase the finest upcoming and established Scottish talent.
Plans for the festival include live music, DJ sets and visual arts projects. More than 80 bands from different genres will take part in the two day event and organisers want around half of them to be Scottish.
Hinterland founder Mike Oman said: "The interest in Hinterland from the industry has been phenomenal, I'm very proud that 20 of the first 30 bands we have confirmed are Scottish."
Acts Confirmed so far:
85 Bears
Brother Louis Collective
Come on Gang!
Copy Haho
Danananan aykroyd
Edie Sedgwick
Fangs
Findo Gask
Galchen
Geordi La Force
Hudson Mohawke
Isosceles
Lesser Panda
Manda Rin
Micachu
Mitchell Museum
My Tiger My Timing
Oh, Atoms
Pearl & the Puppets
Pulled Apart By Horses
Punch & The Apostles
Remember Remember
Rustie
The Xcerts
These Monsters
Three Trapped
Tigers
Tommy Reilly
We Have Band
We Were Promised
Jetpacks
Zoey Van Goey
Tickets on sale now priced at £42 for 2 day ticket and £23.50 for 1 day ticket. For more information visit www.hinterlandfestival.com
Launched to celebrate Glasgow's UNESCO status as a world centre of music, the new festival aims to showcase the finest upcoming and established Scottish talent.
Plans for the festival include live music, DJ sets and visual arts projects. More than 80 bands from different genres will take part in the two day event and organisers want around half of them to be Scottish.
Hinterland founder Mike Oman said: "The interest in Hinterland from the industry has been phenomenal, I'm very proud that 20 of the first 30 bands we have confirmed are Scottish."
Acts Confirmed so far:
85 Bears
Brother Louis Collective
Come on Gang!
Copy Haho
Danananan aykroyd
Edie Sedgwick
Fangs
Findo Gask
Galchen
Geordi La Force
Hudson Mohawke
Isosceles
Lesser Panda
Manda Rin
Micachu
Mitchell Museum
My Tiger My Timing
Oh, Atoms
Pearl & the Puppets
Pulled Apart By Horses
Punch & The Apostles
Remember Remember
Rustie
The Xcerts
These Monsters
Three Trapped
Tigers
Tommy Reilly
We Have Band
We Were Promised
Jetpacks
Zoey Van Goey
Tickets on sale now priced at £42 for 2 day ticket and £23.50 for 1 day ticket. For more information visit www.hinterlandfestival.com
Wednesday 3 December 2008
Glastonbury Looking for New Talent for 2009
Glastonbury has run a competition for the last four festivals to give up-and-coming bands a shot at indie stardom and 2009 sees the return of the emerging talent competition (ETC).
The competition website is open until the 26th January 2009 for artists and bands to upload two of their best tracks. The top 12 Acts will go forward to a series of live finals in March 2009.
The winner will get the opportunity to play on one of the main stages at the world renowned Festival in June 2009.
The competition will be judged by a team of music experts including organisers Michael and Emily Eavis, Radio 1's Huw Stephens and music journalists from Q Magazine.
For the first time, the public will also be able to decide one 'wild card' entry into the finals.
That act, voted for online, will then be guaranteed a slot at the Queen's Head venue at the festival as well as having a chance to win a slot on the Pyramid or Other Stage.
Glastonbury's emerging talent competition is open to musicians not signed to a major label, based in the UK and Ireland.
For more information & details on how to enter go to: www.qthemusic.com
The competition website is open until the 26th January 2009 for artists and bands to upload two of their best tracks. The top 12 Acts will go forward to a series of live finals in March 2009.
The winner will get the opportunity to play on one of the main stages at the world renowned Festival in June 2009.
The competition will be judged by a team of music experts including organisers Michael and Emily Eavis, Radio 1's Huw Stephens and music journalists from Q Magazine.
For the first time, the public will also be able to decide one 'wild card' entry into the finals.
That act, voted for online, will then be guaranteed a slot at the Queen's Head venue at the festival as well as having a chance to win a slot on the Pyramid or Other Stage.
Glastonbury's emerging talent competition is open to musicians not signed to a major label, based in the UK and Ireland.
For more information & details on how to enter go to: www.qthemusic.com
Amazon’s New Music Store Undercuts itunes
Online retail website Amazon’s UK site has launched a music download service offering tracks from 59p each and albums for £3. The new store appeared on its website overnight with no pre-launch publicity, substantially undercutting the prices of Apple.
The new music store offers more than 3 million songs from the four major labels SonyBMG, Universal, EMI and Warner, as well as independent labels such as Beggar's Banquet and Cooking Vinyl.
The move puts Amazon in direct competition with Apple for a stake in the growing market of online music sales, which in the UK alone was worth an estimated £163m in 2007.
Unlike Apple’s iTunes store, the music available from Amazon will be DRM-free which means once users download a track, they are able to load and play it on any device: personal computers, mobile phones, and portable media players, including the iPod.
The current number one album in the music charts, The Circus by Take That is priced at £3 by Amazon whereas Apple are selling it for £8.99. The Amazon shop’s price of 59p per track also undercuts Apple's iTunes Store by 20p.
Apple may have known about the launch as they have cut the price to just £4 for a limited period only, on a selection of popular albums, including Fleet Foxes, Coldplay and Oasis.
Music Industry sources said it was a "reasonable assumption" that Amazon's service was a loss-leading venture similar to its American store launched last year.
The new music store offers more than 3 million songs from the four major labels SonyBMG, Universal, EMI and Warner, as well as independent labels such as Beggar's Banquet and Cooking Vinyl.
The move puts Amazon in direct competition with Apple for a stake in the growing market of online music sales, which in the UK alone was worth an estimated £163m in 2007.
Unlike Apple’s iTunes store, the music available from Amazon will be DRM-free which means once users download a track, they are able to load and play it on any device: personal computers, mobile phones, and portable media players, including the iPod.
The current number one album in the music charts, The Circus by Take That is priced at £3 by Amazon whereas Apple are selling it for £8.99. The Amazon shop’s price of 59p per track also undercuts Apple's iTunes Store by 20p.
Apple may have known about the launch as they have cut the price to just £4 for a limited period only, on a selection of popular albums, including Fleet Foxes, Coldplay and Oasis.
Music Industry sources said it was a "reasonable assumption" that Amazon's service was a loss-leading venture similar to its American store launched last year.
Friday 28 November 2008
Unsigned Bands Offered Chance to Win Festival Slot
Unsigned bands are being given the chance to win and secure a slot to perform at one of next year’s festivals.
The Red Stripe Music Awards are giving unsigned acts the chance to play at one of the country’s best loved live music venues from January until April next year, in a series of regional gigs.
The successful four bands will perform at the final showdown in May. Playing for the chance to become Red Stripe Music Award Winner 2009 and secure a slot at three of next summer’s favourite festivals.
The gig series is open to all bands playing any manner of music, completely and utterly unbiased to trend or leaning.
Applicants must be over 18 and play original songs to be eligible.
For more information and details on how to enter go to: www.redstripe.net
The Red Stripe Music Awards are giving unsigned acts the chance to play at one of the country’s best loved live music venues from January until April next year, in a series of regional gigs.
The successful four bands will perform at the final showdown in May. Playing for the chance to become Red Stripe Music Award Winner 2009 and secure a slot at three of next summer’s favourite festivals.
The gig series is open to all bands playing any manner of music, completely and utterly unbiased to trend or leaning.
Applicants must be over 18 and play original songs to be eligible.
For more information and details on how to enter go to: www.redstripe.net
ALBUM REVIEW: Glasvegas, A Snowflake Fell (And It Felt Like A Kiss) - UK release date: 1st December 2008
Label bosses thought James Allan was winding them up when just months after their phenomenally successful debut album had hit the shelves he announced that Glasvegas were to spend the end of the summer in a church in Transylvania, recording a Christmas album complete with Romanian choir. He wasn’t and the band flew to Transylvania in September.
A Snowflake Fell (And It Felt Like A Kiss) is a six-track Christmas album which comes as a bonus CD with the reissued self-titled debut album, Glasvegas. The album includes an English and Romanian version of ‘Silent Night’, sung by The Concentus Choir, recorded at St Nicholas Church in Brasov.
The opening track, Careful What You Wish For, is a short, fragile song that starts with Allan singing “Christmas time is here again,” accompanied by big organs, bell chimes and the angelic tones of the Concentus choir throughout.
The venomously frank, F**k You; It’s Over, is about a relationship that was cruelly ended at Christmas time and then there’s the epic piano ballad that is Cruel Moon.
A Snowflake Fell, the albums title track is a beautiful piano-led spine tingler which builds into a mass of choral harmonies and dreamy bell chimes and may just also be an attempt at a Christmas number one.
It finishes off with the hauntingly, gentle ‘Silent Night (Noapte De Vis)’ sung by the Concentus Choir, this will make the hairs on your neck stand up.
Glasvegas have made a real Christmas album that echoes its surroundings perfectly, confirming they are still one of the most exciting British bands right now.
Tracklisting:
1. Careful What You Wish For2. Fuck You, It's Over3. Cruel Moon
4. Please Come Back Home5. A Snowflake Fell (And It Felt Like A Kiss)
6. Silent Night/Noapte De Vis
A Snowflake Fell (And It Felt Like A Kiss) is a six-track Christmas album which comes as a bonus CD with the reissued self-titled debut album, Glasvegas. The album includes an English and Romanian version of ‘Silent Night’, sung by The Concentus Choir, recorded at St Nicholas Church in Brasov.
The opening track, Careful What You Wish For, is a short, fragile song that starts with Allan singing “Christmas time is here again,” accompanied by big organs, bell chimes and the angelic tones of the Concentus choir throughout.
The venomously frank, F**k You; It’s Over, is about a relationship that was cruelly ended at Christmas time and then there’s the epic piano ballad that is Cruel Moon.
A Snowflake Fell, the albums title track is a beautiful piano-led spine tingler which builds into a mass of choral harmonies and dreamy bell chimes and may just also be an attempt at a Christmas number one.
It finishes off with the hauntingly, gentle ‘Silent Night (Noapte De Vis)’ sung by the Concentus Choir, this will make the hairs on your neck stand up.
Glasvegas have made a real Christmas album that echoes its surroundings perfectly, confirming they are still one of the most exciting British bands right now.
Tracklisting:
1. Careful What You Wish For2. Fuck You, It's Over3. Cruel Moon
4. Please Come Back Home5. A Snowflake Fell (And It Felt Like A Kiss)
6. Silent Night/Noapte De Vis
MGMT – Barrowlands, Glasgow – 9th November 2008
I know I’m a little late in writing up this one but I just couldn’t make up my mind about this gig.
Back in July I managed to see 10 minutes of MGMT’s set in the Pet Sound Arena at T in the Park and thought they looked and sounded great and I absolutely love their fantastic debut album, Oracular Spectacular.
The young psychedelic-pop outfit from Brooklyn’ took to the stage looking like a proper indie-rock band rather than the war-painted kids playing dress up that we’re used to, I was a little disappointed.
To start off with their performance was a bit uninspiring and tame; I kept waiting for them to put their all into it, even faced with an excitable young audience it felt like they were still holding back.
They have a habit of turning their back on the crowd and doing their own thing whether it’s an impromptu keyboard jam or twiddling knobs it felt a bit like I was in the rehearsal room instead of the actual gig.
However, when they unleashed the fantastic, Time to Pretend, and gave the instruction "now let's have some fun" it felt as though they had finally made that gear change and the Glasgow crowd exploded, the whole place was jumping, with a little help from the Ballrooms sprung floor.
They managed to keep up the momentum for the infectious track that is pure pop-gold, Electric Feel. They played a couple of their new tracks before doing a great performance of The Handshake.
The band went off before delivering a magnificent performance of new single, Kids, which stirred the enthusiastic crowd once more.
The gig definitely had its peaks and troughs, more peaks than troughs, thankfully. However it was really frustrating because when these guys are good their on fire but when their bad their fiddling and annoying.
Starlet
Back in July I managed to see 10 minutes of MGMT’s set in the Pet Sound Arena at T in the Park and thought they looked and sounded great and I absolutely love their fantastic debut album, Oracular Spectacular.
The young psychedelic-pop outfit from Brooklyn’ took to the stage looking like a proper indie-rock band rather than the war-painted kids playing dress up that we’re used to, I was a little disappointed.
To start off with their performance was a bit uninspiring and tame; I kept waiting for them to put their all into it, even faced with an excitable young audience it felt like they were still holding back.
They have a habit of turning their back on the crowd and doing their own thing whether it’s an impromptu keyboard jam or twiddling knobs it felt a bit like I was in the rehearsal room instead of the actual gig.
However, when they unleashed the fantastic, Time to Pretend, and gave the instruction "now let's have some fun" it felt as though they had finally made that gear change and the Glasgow crowd exploded, the whole place was jumping, with a little help from the Ballrooms sprung floor.
They managed to keep up the momentum for the infectious track that is pure pop-gold, Electric Feel. They played a couple of their new tracks before doing a great performance of The Handshake.
The band went off before delivering a magnificent performance of new single, Kids, which stirred the enthusiastic crowd once more.
The gig definitely had its peaks and troughs, more peaks than troughs, thankfully. However it was really frustrating because when these guys are good their on fire but when their bad their fiddling and annoying.
Starlet
Thursday 27 November 2008
Five Arrested for Online Ticket Scam
Five people have been arrested by police in London for allegedly taking part in online ticket scams by Xclusive Tickets Ltd and Xclusive Leisure and Hospitality Ltd.
It is alleged that they took payment from people who were led to believe they had purchased tickets from their website for events such as UK music festivals and the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games but failed to supply any tickets.
According to the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) over 4,000 fans were allegedly scammed.
On Tuesday night (November 25) the Metropolitan Police and the Serious Fraud Office raided three homes and a business, arresting four men and a woman in relation to the alleged crimes.
The five people arrested, all between the ages of 41 and 54 were released on bail after questioning, reports BBC 6music.
The SFO claim that an unauthorised website was set up in July, called bejingticketing.com, by a company called Xclusive Leisure and Hospitality Ltd, but was later closed down by the Olympic authorities. In August the company was placed into liquidation and according to the SFO, linked companies received payment for more than 4,000 tickets that never reached those paying customers. An investigation was started after members of the public in more than 60 countries complained that they had purchased tickets, but in return, received no tickets or refunds.
The Serious Fraud Office is appealing to those affected to get in touch.
This includes people that purchased tickets for the Beijing Olympics, who were most affected, as well as music fans who bought tickets for Reading and Leeds from Xclusive Tickets Ltd, but subsequently did not receive them.
If you have been affected contact the SFO at Sfo.gov.uk
It is alleged that they took payment from people who were led to believe they had purchased tickets from their website for events such as UK music festivals and the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games but failed to supply any tickets.
According to the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) over 4,000 fans were allegedly scammed.
On Tuesday night (November 25) the Metropolitan Police and the Serious Fraud Office raided three homes and a business, arresting four men and a woman in relation to the alleged crimes.
The five people arrested, all between the ages of 41 and 54 were released on bail after questioning, reports BBC 6music.
The SFO claim that an unauthorised website was set up in July, called bejingticketing.com, by a company called Xclusive Leisure and Hospitality Ltd, but was later closed down by the Olympic authorities. In August the company was placed into liquidation and according to the SFO, linked companies received payment for more than 4,000 tickets that never reached those paying customers. An investigation was started after members of the public in more than 60 countries complained that they had purchased tickets, but in return, received no tickets or refunds.
The Serious Fraud Office is appealing to those affected to get in touch.
This includes people that purchased tickets for the Beijing Olympics, who were most affected, as well as music fans who bought tickets for Reading and Leeds from Xclusive Tickets Ltd, but subsequently did not receive them.
If you have been affected contact the SFO at Sfo.gov.uk
Friday 21 November 2008
Kraftwerk Copyright Case Overturned
German electronic pioneers, Kraftwerk have been dealt a blow by Germany's highest civil court, in a lawsuit to determine whether artists should have the right to sample other bands' music without infringing on copyright.
The ruling, issued yesterday (20th November), overturns an earlier decision made by Hamburg state court that ruled in Kraftwerk’s favour and said that reusing even the shortest bit of a song infringed on copyright.
Nevertheless the high court sees sampling still as some form of copyright infringement if the newly created piece of music isn’t a completely new musical work bearing no resemblance to the original.
In light of the ruling, Hamburg state court will now have to take up the case again.
Kraftwerk had sued German rap producer Moses Pelham for using a two-second sample from their 1977 track "Metal on Metal" in the rhythm sequence in the song "Nur Mir" by Sabrina Setlur that appeared in 1997.
The ruling, issued yesterday (20th November), overturns an earlier decision made by Hamburg state court that ruled in Kraftwerk’s favour and said that reusing even the shortest bit of a song infringed on copyright.
Nevertheless the high court sees sampling still as some form of copyright infringement if the newly created piece of music isn’t a completely new musical work bearing no resemblance to the original.
In light of the ruling, Hamburg state court will now have to take up the case again.
Kraftwerk had sued German rap producer Moses Pelham for using a two-second sample from their 1977 track "Metal on Metal" in the rhythm sequence in the song "Nur Mir" by Sabrina Setlur that appeared in 1997.
Thursday 20 November 2008
Ministry of Sound Backs Plan for Ringtone Creation in Schools
Young entrepreneurs are to be encouraged to develop premium-rate content by the industry regulator.
A company called Phonepayplus came up with the idea of creating a new programme called Phonebrain, intended to help kids develop better business acumen around premium-rate numbers as well as educating them about how to use such services.
Ministry of Sound is to assist the Phonebrain programme by giving free lesson plans and downloads to schools with an aim of making ringtone creation part of the national curriculum.
The Assistant Head of Sixth Form at Business Academy in Bexley, Dominic Evans, explained: "The kids are really engaged and love using the technology to create their own personal ringtones.”
He added “We have to drag them away when the bell rings!"
A company called Phonepayplus came up with the idea of creating a new programme called Phonebrain, intended to help kids develop better business acumen around premium-rate numbers as well as educating them about how to use such services.
Ministry of Sound is to assist the Phonebrain programme by giving free lesson plans and downloads to schools with an aim of making ringtone creation part of the national curriculum.
The Assistant Head of Sixth Form at Business Academy in Bexley, Dominic Evans, explained: "The kids are really engaged and love using the technology to create their own personal ringtones.”
He added “We have to drag them away when the bell rings!"
Wednesday 12 November 2008
Bands Revealed for NME Awards Tour
It’s been announced that Scottish rockers, Glasvegas, will headline the 2009 Shockwaves NME Awards Tour, which showcases new music. Celebrating what has been a hugely successful 2008 for the band, Glasvegas will top the bill on next year’s tour.
Other acts joining the Glaswegians on the national tour are Friendly Fires, White Lies and Florence and the Machine. The tour will see Friendly Fires and White Lies reunited, having already joined forces earlier this year on the NME New Music Tour.
Currently enjoying success with their new single, Paris, St Albans disco-pop trio, Friendly Fires, will support.
White Lies will release their eagerly awaited debut album Lose My Life just before the tour begins on 12th January.
Meanwhile the infamous 'opening slot' - having previously played host to the likes of The Ting Tings, Franz Ferdinand and Coldplay - will be filled by London songstress Florence Welch, aka, Florence and the Machine.
Bands that have previously featured on the tour include Coldplay, Franz Ferdinand, The Killers, Kaiser Chiefs, Bloc Party and Arctic Monkeys.
The first NME Tour took place in 1995 and featured Veruca Salt, Marion, Skunk Anansie and 60 Ft Dolls. Since then the tour has been credited with launching the careers of Stereophonics, The Coral, Interpol and The View.
The tour begins in Liverpool on 29th January and concludes at London Brixton Academy on the 21st February.
The Tour Will Visit:
January
29th - Liverpool University
30th - Glasgow Academy
February
1st - Newcastle Academy
3rd - Sheffield Academy
4th - Birmingham Academy
8th - Leeds Academy
10th - Lincoln Engine Shed
11th - Nottingham Rock City
12th - Norwich UEA
14th - Cardiff University
15th - Bristol Academy
16th - Brighton Dome
17th - Oxford Academy
19th - Portsmouth Pyramid
20th - Cambridge Corn Exchange
21st - London Brixton Academy
For ticket info, go to: Shockwaves NME Awards Tour 2009 tickets
Other acts joining the Glaswegians on the national tour are Friendly Fires, White Lies and Florence and the Machine. The tour will see Friendly Fires and White Lies reunited, having already joined forces earlier this year on the NME New Music Tour.
Currently enjoying success with their new single, Paris, St Albans disco-pop trio, Friendly Fires, will support.
White Lies will release their eagerly awaited debut album Lose My Life just before the tour begins on 12th January.
Meanwhile the infamous 'opening slot' - having previously played host to the likes of The Ting Tings, Franz Ferdinand and Coldplay - will be filled by London songstress Florence Welch, aka, Florence and the Machine.
Bands that have previously featured on the tour include Coldplay, Franz Ferdinand, The Killers, Kaiser Chiefs, Bloc Party and Arctic Monkeys.
The first NME Tour took place in 1995 and featured Veruca Salt, Marion, Skunk Anansie and 60 Ft Dolls. Since then the tour has been credited with launching the careers of Stereophonics, The Coral, Interpol and The View.
The tour begins in Liverpool on 29th January and concludes at London Brixton Academy on the 21st February.
The Tour Will Visit:
January
29th - Liverpool University
30th - Glasgow Academy
February
1st - Newcastle Academy
3rd - Sheffield Academy
4th - Birmingham Academy
8th - Leeds Academy
10th - Lincoln Engine Shed
11th - Nottingham Rock City
12th - Norwich UEA
14th - Cardiff University
15th - Bristol Academy
16th - Brighton Dome
17th - Oxford Academy
19th - Portsmouth Pyramid
20th - Cambridge Corn Exchange
21st - London Brixton Academy
For ticket info, go to: Shockwaves NME Awards Tour 2009 tickets
Monday 3 November 2008
The Last Shadow Puppets – Carling Academy, Glasgow – 22nd October 2008
The Last Shadow Puppets is a side project of Alex Turner of Arctic Monkeys & Miles Kane of The Rascals. Following the huge success of their number one album ‘The Age of the Understatement’, I had great expectations for tonight’s gig. I have seen both the Arctic Monkeys and The Rascals live and both are great so I was hoping that tonight would be too.
As the lights started to fade, the conductor strikes up the 16-piece orchestra supporting the lads, violins are playing a little intro as Alex Turner and Miles Kane take to the stage and start blasting out, In My Room, with frantic strings lavishly adding to the excitement.
After a moment pause the lads launch into their first single and the title track from their album, The Age of the Understatement, which sounds fantastic with the orchestra’s backing. This was the highlight for me and I wasn’t alone in this as the crowd showed their appreciation with one of the loudest cheers of the night.
The support of the orchestra added drama and new dynamics to each song, from the sumptuous sounds of Calm Like You to the tenderness of their current single, My Mistakes Were Made For You.
The talented duo also done covers of Nancy Sinatra’s, Paris Summer, and David Bowies, In The Heat of The Morning, which they recorded earlier this year on their 'The Age Of The Understatement EP'. Kane took an effective lead on a cover of The Beatles', I Want You (She's So Heavy), and he also done a great rendition of Leonard Cohen's, Memories.
Although The Last Shadow Puppets was only ever a side project, these talented lads have loads of chemistry on stage it would be a shame if they end the project forever.
Starlet
As the lights started to fade, the conductor strikes up the 16-piece orchestra supporting the lads, violins are playing a little intro as Alex Turner and Miles Kane take to the stage and start blasting out, In My Room, with frantic strings lavishly adding to the excitement.
After a moment pause the lads launch into their first single and the title track from their album, The Age of the Understatement, which sounds fantastic with the orchestra’s backing. This was the highlight for me and I wasn’t alone in this as the crowd showed their appreciation with one of the loudest cheers of the night.
The support of the orchestra added drama and new dynamics to each song, from the sumptuous sounds of Calm Like You to the tenderness of their current single, My Mistakes Were Made For You.
The talented duo also done covers of Nancy Sinatra’s, Paris Summer, and David Bowies, In The Heat of The Morning, which they recorded earlier this year on their 'The Age Of The Understatement EP'. Kane took an effective lead on a cover of The Beatles', I Want You (She's So Heavy), and he also done a great rendition of Leonard Cohen's, Memories.
Although The Last Shadow Puppets was only ever a side project, these talented lads have loads of chemistry on stage it would be a shame if they end the project forever.
Starlet
ALBUM REVIEW: Nitin Sawhney, London Undersound
Nitin Sawhney has himself described this album as an album of collaboration that sets out to explore how "London's heartbeat has changed" since 9/11 and the London bombings of July 2005.
The vivid and descriptive opening track, Days of Fire, was co-written and performed by London singer Natty. The track was inspired by Natty's experience of witnessing the London Bus Bombing. I was very surprised as it is a very easy listen, pleasant, upbeat track although there is a slight grittiness to it.
Hard hitting, Bring It Home, includes vocals from Imogen Heap. The track’s up-beat tempo coupled with Heap’s delicate tones helps illustrate what life might be like in the busy city. While the Paul McCartney collaboration, My Soul is a very moving and poignant piece which is given an Asian edge with backing vocals from Reena Bhardwaj.
The sensual tones and spoken Spanish of Interlude II flow effortlessly into the next track, Distant Dreams. Interlude III brings some classic funky Indian music and vocals.
The tracks seem to flow perfectly from the relaxing piano piece with the most beautiful female vocals, Ek Jaan through Transmission, Last Train to Midnight and the simple, understated instrumental of Firmament.
This is a truly remarkable piece of work which evokes a whole range of emotions as it deals with the change in attitudes on the city of London so perfectly.
Track listing
1. Days of Fire2. October Daze
3. Bring it Home4. Interlude 1 - Ghost Image
5. My Soul6. Interlude 2 – Soledad
7. Distant Dreams8. Interlude 3 - Street Sounds9. Shadowland
10. Daybreak11. Interlude 4 – Identity
12. Ek Jaan13. Transmission
14. Interlude 5 - Tension15. Last Train to Midnight
16. Interlude 6 - Ronald Gray17. Firmament
18. Charu Keshi Rain
The vivid and descriptive opening track, Days of Fire, was co-written and performed by London singer Natty. The track was inspired by Natty's experience of witnessing the London Bus Bombing. I was very surprised as it is a very easy listen, pleasant, upbeat track although there is a slight grittiness to it.
Hard hitting, Bring It Home, includes vocals from Imogen Heap. The track’s up-beat tempo coupled with Heap’s delicate tones helps illustrate what life might be like in the busy city. While the Paul McCartney collaboration, My Soul is a very moving and poignant piece which is given an Asian edge with backing vocals from Reena Bhardwaj.
The sensual tones and spoken Spanish of Interlude II flow effortlessly into the next track, Distant Dreams. Interlude III brings some classic funky Indian music and vocals.
The tracks seem to flow perfectly from the relaxing piano piece with the most beautiful female vocals, Ek Jaan through Transmission, Last Train to Midnight and the simple, understated instrumental of Firmament.
This is a truly remarkable piece of work which evokes a whole range of emotions as it deals with the change in attitudes on the city of London so perfectly.
Track listing
1. Days of Fire2. October Daze
3. Bring it Home4. Interlude 1 - Ghost Image
5. My Soul6. Interlude 2 – Soledad
7. Distant Dreams8. Interlude 3 - Street Sounds9. Shadowland
10. Daybreak11. Interlude 4 – Identity
12. Ek Jaan13. Transmission
14. Interlude 5 - Tension15. Last Train to Midnight
16. Interlude 6 - Ronald Gray17. Firmament
18. Charu Keshi Rain
Friday 31 October 2008
More Acts for Mencap Little Noise Sessions
Duke Special, Damien Rice, Ladyhawke, Noah & The Whale, Dan Black and Skint & Demoralised have been added to the line-up for this year's Mencap Little Noise Sessions.
This is the third year the event has been held. Acts such as Kasabian, Razorlight, Stereophonics, Glasvegas, Keane, James Morrison and The Fratellis are already on the bill for the charity gigs which take place from 8th – 18th November.
Duke Special will play on the 10th November along with Stereophonics and Seasick Steve. On the 11th November Damien Rice will join Adele's intimate gig with Angus & Julia Stone playing the same night.
Skint and Demoralized will appear on the Razorlight night on the 9th of November and Dan Black joins James Morrison and Katy Perry on the 13th.
Noah & the Whale and Ladyhawke celebrate the end of this year's Little Noise Sessions on the 18th along with The Fratellis and Sergeant.
Over the past few years Amy Winehouse, U2, Snow Patrol, Noel Gallagher, Duffy and Lily Allen have performed at the event.
A number of surprise guests will also be performing this year. As with previous sessions which saw impromptu appearances from U2 and Coldplay.
Tickets are available from Mencap's official site.
This is the third year the event has been held. Acts such as Kasabian, Razorlight, Stereophonics, Glasvegas, Keane, James Morrison and The Fratellis are already on the bill for the charity gigs which take place from 8th – 18th November.
Duke Special will play on the 10th November along with Stereophonics and Seasick Steve. On the 11th November Damien Rice will join Adele's intimate gig with Angus & Julia Stone playing the same night.
Skint and Demoralized will appear on the Razorlight night on the 9th of November and Dan Black joins James Morrison and Katy Perry on the 13th.
Noah & the Whale and Ladyhawke celebrate the end of this year's Little Noise Sessions on the 18th along with The Fratellis and Sergeant.
Over the past few years Amy Winehouse, U2, Snow Patrol, Noel Gallagher, Duffy and Lily Allen have performed at the event.
A number of surprise guests will also be performing this year. As with previous sessions which saw impromptu appearances from U2 and Coldplay.
Tickets are available from Mencap's official site.
Wednesday 29 October 2008
Songwriter to Sue The Hives, Over Allegations of Plagiarism
A Los Angeles songwriter has accussed The Hives, of ripping off one of his songs.
Jason Shapiro claims that the Swedish Rockers 2007 single, ‘Tick Tick Boom’, uses a vocal melody and riff from his song, ‘Why You?’ Which was recorded by American bands The Roofies in 1997 then again by Three Way in 2002.
Speaking to LA Weekly, Shapiro said friends had alerted him to the similarities after hearing The Hives' 'Tick Tick Boom' in a trailer for the film, Get Smart.
To get a second opinion, Shapiro consulted a musicologist before deciding to sue.
Shapiro said "He [the musicologist] said the part in question - the main riff and vocal melody - was very similar and its uniqueness led him to believe it wasn't just a coincidence."Shapiro added: "I absolutely love The Hives and don't feel great about suing a band I love. But I also feel credit is due where it is due if you borrow a riff."
The Scandinavian Rockers have yet to respond to the allegation.
Jason Shapiro claims that the Swedish Rockers 2007 single, ‘Tick Tick Boom’, uses a vocal melody and riff from his song, ‘Why You?’ Which was recorded by American bands The Roofies in 1997 then again by Three Way in 2002.
Speaking to LA Weekly, Shapiro said friends had alerted him to the similarities after hearing The Hives' 'Tick Tick Boom' in a trailer for the film, Get Smart.
To get a second opinion, Shapiro consulted a musicologist before deciding to sue.
Shapiro said "He [the musicologist] said the part in question - the main riff and vocal melody - was very similar and its uniqueness led him to believe it wasn't just a coincidence."Shapiro added: "I absolutely love The Hives and don't feel great about suing a band I love. But I also feel credit is due where it is due if you borrow a riff."
The Scandinavian Rockers have yet to respond to the allegation.
Friday 24 October 2008
Keane's Surprise for Electric Proms
Keane had a few tricks to entertain the crowd at London's Koko last night that included strings, saxophonists and a choir.
The band showcased several songs from their new album as well as reworking some of their biggest hits from Hopes and Fears and Under The Iron Sea.
The crowd showed their appreciation with loud cheers and sing-a-longs to many of the hits from their debut album including Everybody's Changing and Somewhere Only We Know, but most fans pointed to special collaborations on their newest tracks as the high point.
Talking to BBC 6 Music afterwards, Tom said "There are a lot of things on the new record you can't replicate with just the four of you," adding "So it was a great way of being able to indulge ourselves and have that for one night."
Pianist and keyboard player Tim Rice-Oxley told 6 Music after the gig, "You have an idea and you think of getting a few violins, and the next thing you know you've got thirty people running around on stage," adding "It's nice when things snowball like that."
New single Spiralling was buffeted by two saxophonists while the string quartet was used to give extra body and clarity to Love Is The End, which singer Tom Chaplin said he felt summed up the theme of their newest work - love.
The set alternated between old and new tracks, with the musical arrangement changing frequently - Tom played guitar on most of the newer tracks with Jesse on bass, while older numbers gave Tom the chance to play piano while Jesse played backing synths. But the band waited until the three song encore to unveil the choir - which sang on Perfect Symmetry.
The quartet stuck with the habit of finishing the set with Bedshaped, which closed to rapturous applause. Keane's next one-off gig is the Little Noise Sessions at London's Union Chapel on 15th November, which the band played at last year.
The band showcased several songs from their new album as well as reworking some of their biggest hits from Hopes and Fears and Under The Iron Sea.
The crowd showed their appreciation with loud cheers and sing-a-longs to many of the hits from their debut album including Everybody's Changing and Somewhere Only We Know, but most fans pointed to special collaborations on their newest tracks as the high point.
Talking to BBC 6 Music afterwards, Tom said "There are a lot of things on the new record you can't replicate with just the four of you," adding "So it was a great way of being able to indulge ourselves and have that for one night."
Pianist and keyboard player Tim Rice-Oxley told 6 Music after the gig, "You have an idea and you think of getting a few violins, and the next thing you know you've got thirty people running around on stage," adding "It's nice when things snowball like that."
New single Spiralling was buffeted by two saxophonists while the string quartet was used to give extra body and clarity to Love Is The End, which singer Tom Chaplin said he felt summed up the theme of their newest work - love.
The set alternated between old and new tracks, with the musical arrangement changing frequently - Tom played guitar on most of the newer tracks with Jesse on bass, while older numbers gave Tom the chance to play piano while Jesse played backing synths. But the band waited until the three song encore to unveil the choir - which sang on Perfect Symmetry.
The quartet stuck with the habit of finishing the set with Bedshaped, which closed to rapturous applause. Keane's next one-off gig is the Little Noise Sessions at London's Union Chapel on 15th November, which the band played at last year.
Glasvegas for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Celebrations
Scots rockers Glasvegas have been lined up to play the Waverley Stage, on Waverly Bridge at this years Edinburgh Hogmanay celebrations.
The Glasgow band are one of the country's most hyped bands of the year.
Fellow Scot, Paolo Nutini has already been announced for the Edinburgh event, he’ll be kicking off the street party at 9pm before racing across the country to also play Glasgow's event.
A statement by Glasvegas said: "It's the perfect way to toast the coming year, celebrating Scottish style."
The full line-up for Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations will be announced next month.
The Glasgow band are one of the country's most hyped bands of the year.
Fellow Scot, Paolo Nutini has already been announced for the Edinburgh event, he’ll be kicking off the street party at 9pm before racing across the country to also play Glasgow's event.
A statement by Glasvegas said: "It's the perfect way to toast the coming year, celebrating Scottish style."
The full line-up for Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations will be announced next month.
Friday 17 October 2008
Chance for Unsigned Act to Open Hogmanay celebrations
In partnership with Winterfest Glasgow 2008, King Tuts Wah Wah Hut has announced ‘The Road to Hogmanay’ initiative.
The Road to Hogmanay is a fantastic opportunity for unsigned music in Scotland, giving a unique chance for Scottish bands and musicians to showcase their talents at The Big Stage on George Square and King Tuts Wah Wah Hut as part of Glasgow’s Festive and Hogmanay celebrations.
Three showcase slots have been booked for the Big Stage on George Square on Thursday 27th November, Thursday 4th and 11th December.
The public’s favourite from these showcases will be invited back to kick off Glasgow’s Hogmanay party on George square in front of a crowd of 15,000 revellers.
The public’s second favourite will be offered another ultimate gigging experience, playing the King Tuts Wah Wah Hut Hogmanay Celebrations!
The Road to Hogmanay is a chance for bands and musicians to share the stage with Paisley star Paolo Nutini in front of a huge George Square audience.
All submissions will be listened to by an expert panel of music and media industry delegates, who will decide which bands and artists will be showcased at the Big Stage! It will then be up to the public to decide which band kicks off the George Square Hogmanay party on December 31st 2008. Which ever band is the public’s second favourite, will headline King Tuts Wah Wah Hut’s Hogmanay celebrations! Geoff Ellis, of DF Concerts, said: "This is a tremendous opportunity for Scottish bands to gain amazing exposure in front of a world-renowned Scottish audience and to really kick off the New Year in style.
"As support for live music in Scotland continues to grow, this is a unique chance for Scottish music lovers to support the talents of local musicians.
Events Manager for Winterfest Glasgow, Colin Hartley said: "Over the years Glasgow's Hogmanay has showcased the very best in Scottish talent and I'm sure that we will discover the next big thing as this competition heats up.
"Sharing a stage with Paolo Nutini is a pretty good way to ring in the bells."
The deadline for band submissions is the Wednesday 5th November.
For more information go to www.kingtuts.co.uk/roadtohogmanay/
The Road to Hogmanay is a fantastic opportunity for unsigned music in Scotland, giving a unique chance for Scottish bands and musicians to showcase their talents at The Big Stage on George Square and King Tuts Wah Wah Hut as part of Glasgow’s Festive and Hogmanay celebrations.
Three showcase slots have been booked for the Big Stage on George Square on Thursday 27th November, Thursday 4th and 11th December.
The public’s favourite from these showcases will be invited back to kick off Glasgow’s Hogmanay party on George square in front of a crowd of 15,000 revellers.
The public’s second favourite will be offered another ultimate gigging experience, playing the King Tuts Wah Wah Hut Hogmanay Celebrations!
The Road to Hogmanay is a chance for bands and musicians to share the stage with Paisley star Paolo Nutini in front of a huge George Square audience.
All submissions will be listened to by an expert panel of music and media industry delegates, who will decide which bands and artists will be showcased at the Big Stage! It will then be up to the public to decide which band kicks off the George Square Hogmanay party on December 31st 2008. Which ever band is the public’s second favourite, will headline King Tuts Wah Wah Hut’s Hogmanay celebrations! Geoff Ellis, of DF Concerts, said: "This is a tremendous opportunity for Scottish bands to gain amazing exposure in front of a world-renowned Scottish audience and to really kick off the New Year in style.
"As support for live music in Scotland continues to grow, this is a unique chance for Scottish music lovers to support the talents of local musicians.
Events Manager for Winterfest Glasgow, Colin Hartley said: "Over the years Glasgow's Hogmanay has showcased the very best in Scottish talent and I'm sure that we will discover the next big thing as this competition heats up.
"Sharing a stage with Paolo Nutini is a pretty good way to ring in the bells."
The deadline for band submissions is the Wednesday 5th November.
For more information go to www.kingtuts.co.uk/roadtohogmanay/
Tuesday 14 October 2008
Illegal Downloads On The Way Out According To survey
According to a survey published by Entertainment Media Research (EMR), music pirates can be deterred by warnings from their internet service provider (ISP). The survey found that 72% of consumers would stop downloading music illegally if contacted by their ISP.
The EMR survey also found that 51% (of 1,500 consumers) legally purchased downloads. It’s the first time in the five years the EMR survey has been produced this figure outweighed the number of those who download illegally.
The research revealed the effect of the campaign against persistent pirates conducted by the music industry. An agreement from ISPs to send out warning letters to those suspected of illegally downloading music has contributed.
Russell Hart, chief executive of Entertainment Media Research said in a statement "It is quite evident that an ISP-led strategy has bite, because illegal downloader’s are fairly convinced that ISPs are currently monitoring their activities and are more likely to act against them than the courts."
The research also found that younger net users, 13-17 year olds, were the most persistent pirates, 58% said they had downloaded illegally. It also found that 61% of those who admitted to being illegal downloader’s were convinced that their activities were being monitored by net firms.
The EMR survey also found that 51% (of 1,500 consumers) legally purchased downloads. It’s the first time in the five years the EMR survey has been produced this figure outweighed the number of those who download illegally.
The research revealed the effect of the campaign against persistent pirates conducted by the music industry. An agreement from ISPs to send out warning letters to those suspected of illegally downloading music has contributed.
Russell Hart, chief executive of Entertainment Media Research said in a statement "It is quite evident that an ISP-led strategy has bite, because illegal downloader’s are fairly convinced that ISPs are currently monitoring their activities and are more likely to act against them than the courts."
The research also found that younger net users, 13-17 year olds, were the most persistent pirates, 58% said they had downloaded illegally. It also found that 61% of those who admitted to being illegal downloader’s were convinced that their activities were being monitored by net firms.
Friday 10 October 2008
Innovative Idea Helps Attic Lights Connect With Their Fans
Scots band Attic Lights have come up with an inventive way of connecting with their fans, they have released 54 different versions of their new single Wendy.
The song, taken from the band's forthcoming album Friday Night Lights, was reworked multiple times following a drinking session by the band in the Mixing Rooms studios in Glasgow.
The single versions have had different names inserted in the chorus. The girl’s names include Becky, Cheryl, Julie and Sarah, with names such as Adam, Danny, Richie and Simon for the guys.
Kevin Sherry, the bands singer revealed: "When we were recording the album at the end of last year we were having a laugh during the take of Wendy, I ended up singing the name of girlfriends of the members of the band, instead of Wendy. I added my family members. We thought it was a novel idea.”
“We went through all the names of people we knew and the record company thought it would be a great idea to release them” he said.
"Fifty-four versions must be some kind of record but we haven't got round to checking it out," he added.
The single versions have been personalised to cover the most popular names in the country. To see the full selection of names available click here
The original CD version of the single, Wendy, includes a remix by Jon Fratelli of The Fratellis and also Scots indie acts The Vaselines and Camera Obscura.
Kevin said: "We supported The Fratellis in London a few months ago and Jon was very complimentary about the band. He changed the chords and added his own vocal and guitars over it. We were blown away that Jon did it for us even though he is in a massive band. He had told us to keep in touch and said The Fratellis wanted to support Scottish bands as much as they could."
The bands brilliant debut album, Friday Night Lights is out on Monday 13th October.
The song, taken from the band's forthcoming album Friday Night Lights, was reworked multiple times following a drinking session by the band in the Mixing Rooms studios in Glasgow.
The single versions have had different names inserted in the chorus. The girl’s names include Becky, Cheryl, Julie and Sarah, with names such as Adam, Danny, Richie and Simon for the guys.
Kevin Sherry, the bands singer revealed: "When we were recording the album at the end of last year we were having a laugh during the take of Wendy, I ended up singing the name of girlfriends of the members of the band, instead of Wendy. I added my family members. We thought it was a novel idea.”
“We went through all the names of people we knew and the record company thought it would be a great idea to release them” he said.
"Fifty-four versions must be some kind of record but we haven't got round to checking it out," he added.
The single versions have been personalised to cover the most popular names in the country. To see the full selection of names available click here
The original CD version of the single, Wendy, includes a remix by Jon Fratelli of The Fratellis and also Scots indie acts The Vaselines and Camera Obscura.
Kevin said: "We supported The Fratellis in London a few months ago and Jon was very complimentary about the band. He changed the chords and added his own vocal and guitars over it. We were blown away that Jon did it for us even though he is in a massive band. He had told us to keep in touch and said The Fratellis wanted to support Scottish bands as much as they could."
The bands brilliant debut album, Friday Night Lights is out on Monday 13th October.
Iceland’s Airwaves Festival Unaffected by Global Credit Crunch
Organisers of Iceland’s Airwaves festival have confirmed the event will still go ahead despite the current problems with country’s economy.
The festival, which celebrates its 10th Anniversary, will go ahead as planned.
The festival runs from the Wednesday 15th to Sunday 19th of October in Reykjavik and this year features sets from the likes of Simian Mobile Disco, Young Knives, Vampire Weekend, White Lies, CSS, Crystal Castles and Biffy Clyro.
Iceland became the latest victim of the current economic crisis when the Icelandic government took control of the Landsbanki bank and declaring it insolvent after it suffered severe losses.
In a statement, organisers said: “In spite of economical difficulties in Iceland at the moment the Iceland Airwaves festival will take place next week just like it has done for the past 10 years.”
They also said “The economical crisis does not affect the planning and promoting of the festival.”
“[We] are looking forward to lifting the spirits of the Icelandic people” they added.
The festival, which celebrates its 10th Anniversary, will go ahead as planned.
The festival runs from the Wednesday 15th to Sunday 19th of October in Reykjavik and this year features sets from the likes of Simian Mobile Disco, Young Knives, Vampire Weekend, White Lies, CSS, Crystal Castles and Biffy Clyro.
Iceland became the latest victim of the current economic crisis when the Icelandic government took control of the Landsbanki bank and declaring it insolvent after it suffered severe losses.
In a statement, organisers said: “In spite of economical difficulties in Iceland at the moment the Iceland Airwaves festival will take place next week just like it has done for the past 10 years.”
They also said “The economical crisis does not affect the planning and promoting of the festival.”
“[We] are looking forward to lifting the spirits of the Icelandic people” they added.
Friday 3 October 2008
Simian Mobile Disco produce exercise track for Nike
Simian Mobile Disco, have been signed up by sportswear giant, Nike, to create music for a new training scheme they’ve come up with.
The trainer manufacturer is launching a new training regime called Nike Plus, and the dance act has provided the soundtrack.
The band has written, Run, a 30 minute piece designed to complement exercise.
‘Run’ begins at a tempo suitable for warming up, before speeding up for a running workout before slowing down again to finish with a warm down.
The complete piece of music sets a pace which is designed to help maintain the optimum BPM for runners.LCD Soundsystem also produced a track for runners earlier this year called '45.33'. Tracks, '45.33' and 'Run' are available from itunes now.
The trainer manufacturer is launching a new training regime called Nike Plus, and the dance act has provided the soundtrack.
The band has written, Run, a 30 minute piece designed to complement exercise.
‘Run’ begins at a tempo suitable for warming up, before speeding up for a running workout before slowing down again to finish with a warm down.
The complete piece of music sets a pace which is designed to help maintain the optimum BPM for runners.LCD Soundsystem also produced a track for runners earlier this year called '45.33'. Tracks, '45.33' and 'Run' are available from itunes now.
Oxjam 2008 Competition for Bands to Play at Leeds Festival
Thousands of musicians will be taking part in Oxjam 2008, the biggest music festival in the UK, raising half a million for Oxfam with gigs, DJ sets, busks and all kinds of musical events throughout October.
The charity festival that raises money for Oxfam, is gearing up for this year with a competition for bands to win a place on the line-up at next year's Leeds Festival.
Organisers at this year’s festival are offering bands who take part in Oxjam events the chance to win a spot on the Oxjam Stage at 2009 Leeds Festival by uploading their songs to the Oxjam website.
A shortlist of the 20 best bands from across the UK will have their songs uploaded onto the Oxjam website for the public to vote on. The act with the most votes will perform at the Leeds Festival, get their hands on backstage passes to hang out with the stars, and be able to bring along some friends each too.
Over the last year, more than 15,000 musicians have taken part in over 1,200 events for Oxjam, raising in excess of £250,000 to fight poverty around the world. The festival aims to double that figure this year.
Artists including Klaxons, Jamelia, The Kooks, Hot Chip, Fatboy Slim and Jarvis Cocker have taken part in previous Oxjam events. The festival sees a variety of fundraising events taking place all over the country.
For information on events around the UK this October or how to get involved with Oxjam go to Oxfam.org.uk/oxjam.
The charity festival that raises money for Oxfam, is gearing up for this year with a competition for bands to win a place on the line-up at next year's Leeds Festival.
Organisers at this year’s festival are offering bands who take part in Oxjam events the chance to win a spot on the Oxjam Stage at 2009 Leeds Festival by uploading their songs to the Oxjam website.
A shortlist of the 20 best bands from across the UK will have their songs uploaded onto the Oxjam website for the public to vote on. The act with the most votes will perform at the Leeds Festival, get their hands on backstage passes to hang out with the stars, and be able to bring along some friends each too.
Over the last year, more than 15,000 musicians have taken part in over 1,200 events for Oxjam, raising in excess of £250,000 to fight poverty around the world. The festival aims to double that figure this year.
Artists including Klaxons, Jamelia, The Kooks, Hot Chip, Fatboy Slim and Jarvis Cocker have taken part in previous Oxjam events. The festival sees a variety of fundraising events taking place all over the country.
For information on events around the UK this October or how to get involved with Oxjam go to Oxfam.org.uk/oxjam.
ALBUM REVIEW: The Aliens, Luna
Following on from their overhyped debut album, 2007’s Astronomy for Dogs, The Aliens have come up trumps with their second album.
Luna definitely has a dreamy, hallucinatory quality. It demonstrates the bands musical impulse that they are still unable to control but that is no bad thing, well, not on this album.
Their main influences seem to be Syd Barrett, Brian Wilson, early Bowie and White Album Beatles, but as the album goes on it throws up half a dozen more. This is certainly an ambitious and challenging album. The Aliens remain timeless, simultaneously nostalgic and optimistic.
The ten minute opener ‘Bobby’s Song’ starts off with a harmonica intro that leads you into quivery psychedelic folk-pop that soon sweeps through an electronic and progressive rock section. A complete mix of 60s sounds and Eastern beats that felt overloaded with too many contrasting elements.
Third track, Theremin, features sunny West Coast, gentle Brian Wilson harmonies whereas Magic Man had more of an acid rock edge with its fusion of every style you can think of.
Title track Luna is not for the faint hearted, starting with gloomy pianos before turning into a full-on guitar fest.
Boats offers a credible guitar sprawl from Neil Young. Last track on the album is the truly delicate, psychedelic beauty, Blue Mantle.
This album is confirmation that The Aliens have well and truly landed, Luna is a psychedelic delight.
Track Listing
1. Bobby's Song
2. Amen
3. Theremin
4. Everyone
5. Magic Man
6. Billy Jack
7. Luna
8. Dove Returning
9. Sunlamp Show
10. Smoggy Bog
11. Daffodils
12. Boats
13. Blue Mantle
Luna definitely has a dreamy, hallucinatory quality. It demonstrates the bands musical impulse that they are still unable to control but that is no bad thing, well, not on this album.
Their main influences seem to be Syd Barrett, Brian Wilson, early Bowie and White Album Beatles, but as the album goes on it throws up half a dozen more. This is certainly an ambitious and challenging album. The Aliens remain timeless, simultaneously nostalgic and optimistic.
The ten minute opener ‘Bobby’s Song’ starts off with a harmonica intro that leads you into quivery psychedelic folk-pop that soon sweeps through an electronic and progressive rock section. A complete mix of 60s sounds and Eastern beats that felt overloaded with too many contrasting elements.
Third track, Theremin, features sunny West Coast, gentle Brian Wilson harmonies whereas Magic Man had more of an acid rock edge with its fusion of every style you can think of.
Title track Luna is not for the faint hearted, starting with gloomy pianos before turning into a full-on guitar fest.
Boats offers a credible guitar sprawl from Neil Young. Last track on the album is the truly delicate, psychedelic beauty, Blue Mantle.
This album is confirmation that The Aliens have well and truly landed, Luna is a psychedelic delight.
Track Listing
1. Bobby's Song
2. Amen
3. Theremin
4. Everyone
5. Magic Man
6. Billy Jack
7. Luna
8. Dove Returning
9. Sunlamp Show
10. Smoggy Bog
11. Daffodils
12. Boats
13. Blue Mantle
Thursday 2 October 2008
ALBUM REVIEW: Seasick Steve, I Started Out With Nothing and I’ve Still Got Most of it Left
Former hobo, American bluesman Steve Wold aka Seasick Steve, won best breakthrough act at this year’s Mojo Magazine awards. He’s been a festival favourite for a few years now. Seasick Steve is the real deal. Having learnt about the hobo lifestyle early on in life (via many freight trains) he has developed a vivid & wholly authentic folk-blues style. He's been playing music professionally since the 70s & still has it today. Following the release of his long awaited debut solo album Dog House Music in 2006 he found a legion of new fans after appearing on Jools Holland's Hootenanny.
His recently released second solo album 'I Started Out With Nothing and I've Still Got Most Of It Left' sounds a little more polished than the first and it is, it was recorded in a Norfolk studio owned by former Darkness guitarist Dan Hawkins. This album doesn’t have the same charm and wholesome feel of its predecessor.
The album's title track sounds all a bit too smooth and clean cut with backing singers thrown into the mix. By the time it gets to the third track on the album, St Louis Slim it seems the real Seasick Steve is creeping back and things are getting funky. The delightful, Happy Man shows a softer tone to Steve’s voice. Nick Cave puts in a brilliant star guest performance on Just Like a King, which is equally brooding and a charming strum along with the two music men.
Meanwhile the thrillingly humorous track, Chiggers, refers to an insect and Steve offers some advice over what to do if you ever get attacked by a mass of evil sounding bugs. The track sees a welcome return of the old boys ferocious slide guitar playing.
Closing track, My Youth is a desolate mediation on ageing, which is somewhat poignant as Steve sings about the memories that he has. I can’t imagine anyone, well, anyone with a heart that is, not to be affected by this track.
Admittedly the album has got nothing on what you get from the experience of seeing the man himself perform live. However it would be a bit foolish to expect just that. Once you get over its rocky start this album is really good, or as the man himself would put it “It’s All Good!”
Track listing
1. Started Out With Nothing
2. Walking Man
3. St Louis Slim
4. Happy Man
5. Prospect Lane
6. Thunderbird
7. Fly By Night
8. Just Like A King
9. One True
10. Chiggers
11. My Youth
His recently released second solo album 'I Started Out With Nothing and I've Still Got Most Of It Left' sounds a little more polished than the first and it is, it was recorded in a Norfolk studio owned by former Darkness guitarist Dan Hawkins. This album doesn’t have the same charm and wholesome feel of its predecessor.
The album's title track sounds all a bit too smooth and clean cut with backing singers thrown into the mix. By the time it gets to the third track on the album, St Louis Slim it seems the real Seasick Steve is creeping back and things are getting funky. The delightful, Happy Man shows a softer tone to Steve’s voice. Nick Cave puts in a brilliant star guest performance on Just Like a King, which is equally brooding and a charming strum along with the two music men.
Meanwhile the thrillingly humorous track, Chiggers, refers to an insect and Steve offers some advice over what to do if you ever get attacked by a mass of evil sounding bugs. The track sees a welcome return of the old boys ferocious slide guitar playing.
Closing track, My Youth is a desolate mediation on ageing, which is somewhat poignant as Steve sings about the memories that he has. I can’t imagine anyone, well, anyone with a heart that is, not to be affected by this track.
Admittedly the album has got nothing on what you get from the experience of seeing the man himself perform live. However it would be a bit foolish to expect just that. Once you get over its rocky start this album is really good, or as the man himself would put it “It’s All Good!”
Track listing
1. Started Out With Nothing
2. Walking Man
3. St Louis Slim
4. Happy Man
5. Prospect Lane
6. Thunderbird
7. Fly By Night
8. Just Like A King
9. One True
10. Chiggers
11. My Youth
Friday 26 September 2008
US Woman Convicted of Music Theft Granted New Trial
A US judge granted a new trial to a woman convicted of pirating music files and denounced the awarding of $222,000 in damages to record companies as "wholly disproportionate" and "oppressive."
Jammie Thomas, a single mother from Minnesota, was convicted last October in the first such online piracy case in the United States for sharing 24 songs through the Kazaa file-sharing network.
She was ordered to pay $220,000 or $9,250 per song, in damages to six record companies: Capital Records, Sony BMG Music, Arista Records, Interscope Records, Warner Bros. Records and UMG Recordings.
But the judge who presided over the case ordered a new trial on Wednesday saying he had erred in his instructions to the jury with his interpretation of whether Thomas had actually distributed the music or not.
Chief Judge Michael Davis of the US District Court based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, said the jury instructions had "Substantially prejudiced Thomas's rights." He said "Based on the Court's error in instructing the jury, it grants Thomas a new trial."
In his ruling, Davis also called on the US Congress to amend the Copyright Act and condemned the jury's damages award against Thomas.
Noting that she "sought no profit from her acts," Davis wrote that "Thomas's conduct was motivated by her desire to obtain the copyrighted music for her own use.
"The Court does not condone Thomas's actions, but it would be a farce to say that a single mother's acts of using Kazaa are the equivalent, for example, to the acts of global financial firms illegally infringing on copyrights in order to profit in the securities market," he said.
"The damages awarded in this case are wholly disproportionate to the damages suffered by Plaintiffs.
"Her alleged acts were illegal, but common," the judge added. "Her status as a consumer who was not seeking to harm her competitors or make a profit does not excuse her behaviour. But it does make the award of hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages unprecedented and oppressive."
The Recording Industry Association of America and major music labels have brought suit against thousands of people in the United States for illegally downloading and sharing music, with most agreeing to settlements of between $3,000 and $5,000.
Thomas was the first among those being sued to refuse a settlement and instead took the case to court.
Industry analysts say illegal music downloading and file-sharing remains prevalent despite the surge in interest in legal music sites such as Apple's iTunes.
Jammie Thomas, a single mother from Minnesota, was convicted last October in the first such online piracy case in the United States for sharing 24 songs through the Kazaa file-sharing network.
She was ordered to pay $220,000 or $9,250 per song, in damages to six record companies: Capital Records, Sony BMG Music, Arista Records, Interscope Records, Warner Bros. Records and UMG Recordings.
But the judge who presided over the case ordered a new trial on Wednesday saying he had erred in his instructions to the jury with his interpretation of whether Thomas had actually distributed the music or not.
Chief Judge Michael Davis of the US District Court based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, said the jury instructions had "Substantially prejudiced Thomas's rights." He said "Based on the Court's error in instructing the jury, it grants Thomas a new trial."
In his ruling, Davis also called on the US Congress to amend the Copyright Act and condemned the jury's damages award against Thomas.
Noting that she "sought no profit from her acts," Davis wrote that "Thomas's conduct was motivated by her desire to obtain the copyrighted music for her own use.
"The Court does not condone Thomas's actions, but it would be a farce to say that a single mother's acts of using Kazaa are the equivalent, for example, to the acts of global financial firms illegally infringing on copyrights in order to profit in the securities market," he said.
"The damages awarded in this case are wholly disproportionate to the damages suffered by Plaintiffs.
"Her alleged acts were illegal, but common," the judge added. "Her status as a consumer who was not seeking to harm her competitors or make a profit does not excuse her behaviour. But it does make the award of hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages unprecedented and oppressive."
The Recording Industry Association of America and major music labels have brought suit against thousands of people in the United States for illegally downloading and sharing music, with most agreeing to settlements of between $3,000 and $5,000.
Thomas was the first among those being sued to refuse a settlement and instead took the case to court.
Industry analysts say illegal music downloading and file-sharing remains prevalent despite the surge in interest in legal music sites such as Apple's iTunes.
Thursday 25 September 2008
MySpace Music Slammed By Independent Label Boss
Following the launch yesterday (September 24) of MySpace Music in the USA, Chairman of the Beggars Group of record labels, Martin Mills, has slammed the new service for not signing up influential independent record labels.
Mills has criticised those behind the service for not enlisting more independent labels, which he says were influential in the initial growth of MySpace.
All of the major record labels Universal, Warner Music, EMI and Sony BMG are signed up to the service.
In a statement, Mills said:
"It is both disappointing and astonishing that MySpace, built on the music of independent artists and labels, should, now it has the majors as partners, choose to launch without those that have been at its heart, and whilst treating independents as second class citizens."The service's independent content, sadly, appears to constitute only the independent distribution arms of the majors by virtue of their deals with their parents, and the orchard."We, however, believe that independent music and artists are worth every cent as much as that of the majors, and will not be supporting this potentially exciting new service until we see fair play."
The Beggars Group owns the Rough Trade, 4AD, Matador, XL, Too Pure, Merok and Young Turks labels.
Mills has criticised those behind the service for not enlisting more independent labels, which he says were influential in the initial growth of MySpace.
All of the major record labels Universal, Warner Music, EMI and Sony BMG are signed up to the service.
In a statement, Mills said:
"It is both disappointing and astonishing that MySpace, built on the music of independent artists and labels, should, now it has the majors as partners, choose to launch without those that have been at its heart, and whilst treating independents as second class citizens."The service's independent content, sadly, appears to constitute only the independent distribution arms of the majors by virtue of their deals with their parents, and the orchard."We, however, believe that independent music and artists are worth every cent as much as that of the majors, and will not be supporting this potentially exciting new service until we see fair play."
The Beggars Group owns the Rough Trade, 4AD, Matador, XL, Too Pure, Merok and Young Turks labels.
Friday 19 September 2008
Online Music Store, DJ History, Launches Today
A new online music store launched today (September 19th). The site, DJhistory.com, will sell downloads of rare vinyl tracks claiming to "do the digging, so you don't have to".
Co-curator Frank Broughton told The Guardian "We'll never be as big as iTunes, but we'll always be more interesting. The store is aimed at DJs, music geeks and anyone who wants great, unknown music,”
There’s a section on the site called Secret Weapons, a monthly release of killer tunes DJs normally keep to themselves.
Broughton says "The label is about the people on the forum. They suggest things to license and they get to show off their amazing rarities and do legal remixes and edits of favourites from their collections,"
"The forum attracts hundreds of brilliant unknown DJs as well as massive names like dj’s like Francois Kevorkian, Darshan Jesrani, David Mancuso, Prins Thomas and Greg Wilson. They've all contributed in some way. It's a community filled with experts, and they all share what they know."
For more information go to: http://www.djhistory.com/
Co-curator Frank Broughton told The Guardian "We'll never be as big as iTunes, but we'll always be more interesting. The store is aimed at DJs, music geeks and anyone who wants great, unknown music,”
There’s a section on the site called Secret Weapons, a monthly release of killer tunes DJs normally keep to themselves.
Broughton says "The label is about the people on the forum. They suggest things to license and they get to show off their amazing rarities and do legal remixes and edits of favourites from their collections,"
"The forum attracts hundreds of brilliant unknown DJs as well as massive names like dj’s like Francois Kevorkian, Darshan Jesrani, David Mancuso, Prins Thomas and Greg Wilson. They've all contributed in some way. It's a community filled with experts, and they all share what they know."
For more information go to: http://www.djhistory.com/
Primal Scream Stole the Show at Vodafone Live Music Awards
Scottish veterans Primal Scream stole the show at last night’s (September 18th) Vodafone Live Music Awards ceremony in London, picking up awards for Best Live Act and Outstanding Contribution to Live Music.
At London's Brixton Academy the rockers closed the awards ceremony with a superb set, which included their recent single 'Can't Go Back', '90s classic 'Rocks' and 'Beautiful Future', the title track of their new album.
The Ting Tings opened the show with 'That's Not My Name’ before walking away with the Xfm Live Breakthrough Award, presented to the band that had made the biggest steps in the world of gigs this year.
Mark Ronson won the Best Live Male award and The Spice Girls won Best Live Comeback gong, beating off The Verve and Led Zeppelin.The Best Live Female award went to Kate Nash and Kings of Leon picked up the award for Best International Live Act.
Glasvegas also took to the stage to perform an acoustic version of ‘Daddy’s Gone’.
Scottish music festival, T in the Park bagged the 4Music Festival of the Year award.Vodafone Live Music Award winners are as follows:
Best Live Male: Mark RonsonBest Live Female: Kate NashBest Live Act: Primal ScreamBest Live Return: Spice Girls XFM Live Breakthrough Act: The Ting Tings4Music Festival of the Year: T In The ParkLive & Unsigned Act: Kiddo360Best International Live Act: Kings Of LeonSony Ericsson Tour of the Year: Take That Arena TourOutstanding Contribution To Live Music: Primal Scream
At London's Brixton Academy the rockers closed the awards ceremony with a superb set, which included their recent single 'Can't Go Back', '90s classic 'Rocks' and 'Beautiful Future', the title track of their new album.
The Ting Tings opened the show with 'That's Not My Name’ before walking away with the Xfm Live Breakthrough Award, presented to the band that had made the biggest steps in the world of gigs this year.
Mark Ronson won the Best Live Male award and The Spice Girls won Best Live Comeback gong, beating off The Verve and Led Zeppelin.The Best Live Female award went to Kate Nash and Kings of Leon picked up the award for Best International Live Act.
Glasvegas also took to the stage to perform an acoustic version of ‘Daddy’s Gone’.
Scottish music festival, T in the Park bagged the 4Music Festival of the Year award.Vodafone Live Music Award winners are as follows:
Best Live Male: Mark RonsonBest Live Female: Kate NashBest Live Act: Primal ScreamBest Live Return: Spice Girls XFM Live Breakthrough Act: The Ting Tings4Music Festival of the Year: T In The ParkLive & Unsigned Act: Kiddo360Best International Live Act: Kings Of LeonSony Ericsson Tour of the Year: Take That Arena TourOutstanding Contribution To Live Music: Primal Scream
Saturday 13 September 2008
Six Charged Following Music Share Investigation
Six people have been charged by Cleveland police, in connection with a police enquiry into illegal music file-sharing website, OiNK.
A 25-year-old IT worker from Middlesbrough has been charged with conspiracy to defraud. He has been bailed to appear in court later this month.
Five other people have been charged with copyright infringement penalties.
A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that one man has been charged with conspiracy to defraud and five others have been charged with copyright infringement.
"They will appear at Teeside Magistrates' Court on 24th September."
The IT worker was originally arrested and released on police bail in October 2007 after police raided his home.
The charges follow an Interpol-led investigation into illegal music downloads, involving music industry bodies the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry and the British Phonographic Industry.
Other arrests were part of Cleveland Police's operation Ark Royal into music industry piracy.
The operation was launched last year after the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry revealed that the member’s only download site had already leaked sixty pre-release albums in 2007.
OiNK, which had servers based in Holland, was closed last October following a joint operation between Interpol, the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry and the British Phonographic Industry.
A 25-year-old IT worker from Middlesbrough has been charged with conspiracy to defraud. He has been bailed to appear in court later this month.
Five other people have been charged with copyright infringement penalties.
A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that one man has been charged with conspiracy to defraud and five others have been charged with copyright infringement.
"They will appear at Teeside Magistrates' Court on 24th September."
The IT worker was originally arrested and released on police bail in October 2007 after police raided his home.
The charges follow an Interpol-led investigation into illegal music downloads, involving music industry bodies the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry and the British Phonographic Industry.
Other arrests were part of Cleveland Police's operation Ark Royal into music industry piracy.
The operation was launched last year after the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry revealed that the member’s only download site had already leaked sixty pre-release albums in 2007.
OiNK, which had servers based in Holland, was closed last October following a joint operation between Interpol, the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry and the British Phonographic Industry.
Thursday 11 September 2008
Mercury Prize Winners Elbow Look Set to Return to the Top 10
Elbow are set to return to the top 10 after their album, The Seldom Seen Kid, scooped the Nationwide Mercury Prize on Tuesday (9th Sep).
Before Tuesday night’s ceremony, Elbow’s fourth album was at no.61. Based on sales up to Thursday, it is now at no.9 in the midweek charts. It’s also the best-selling album on both Amazon and iTunes in the UK.
An Official Charts Company (OCC) spokesperson said "They definitely look like they'll back in top 10 by the weekend,"
The band beat 11 other acts to the prestigious prize for album of the year. Singer Guy Garvey said it was "quite literally the best thing that's ever happened to us".
Garvey dedicated the prize to the man who inspired the album's title, Brian Glancey, a close friend who died two years ago. Garvey said "The album is dedicated to him, because you don't get more seldom seen than someone who's dead, and I think he'd appreciate the gallows humour in that,"
He continued "I miss him every day, he was a great man and he should be stood here in many ways. Some of his music will be coming out soon and everyone else will know how great he was as well."
The OCC spokesperson added "The Mercury is a fantastic showcase. Elbow have been around for such a long time and it's clearly bringing them to a wider audience.
"All the nominees have benefitted, simply from being nominated" He added.
Before Tuesday night’s ceremony, Elbow’s fourth album was at no.61. Based on sales up to Thursday, it is now at no.9 in the midweek charts. It’s also the best-selling album on both Amazon and iTunes in the UK.
An Official Charts Company (OCC) spokesperson said "They definitely look like they'll back in top 10 by the weekend,"
The band beat 11 other acts to the prestigious prize for album of the year. Singer Guy Garvey said it was "quite literally the best thing that's ever happened to us".
Garvey dedicated the prize to the man who inspired the album's title, Brian Glancey, a close friend who died two years ago. Garvey said "The album is dedicated to him, because you don't get more seldom seen than someone who's dead, and I think he'd appreciate the gallows humour in that,"
He continued "I miss him every day, he was a great man and he should be stood here in many ways. Some of his music will be coming out soon and everyone else will know how great he was as well."
The OCC spokesperson added "The Mercury is a fantastic showcase. Elbow have been around for such a long time and it's clearly bringing them to a wider audience.
"All the nominees have benefitted, simply from being nominated" He added.
Friday 5 September 2008
Colin MacIntyre Announces UK Dates
Colin Macintyre former Mull Historical Society musician is set to play UK dates which will coincide with the release of his new single.The second single from Colin's album The Water will be 'Famous For Being Famous', released on the 22nd of September on Future Gods Recordings.
The new single’s download release will also come with two previously unreleased tracks of Colin's: 'You & Me Ground Zero' and 'When Loser's Become Friends'
The Isle of Mull musician will play the following dates:
20th September Glasgow (King Tut's)21st September Liverpool (Academy 2)28th October London (Cargo)29th October Manchester (The Ruby Lounge)
Meanwhile 'You're A Star', the opening track of 'The Water' has been confirmed as the title track for a new ITV mockumentary film written and co-directed by Irvine Welsh, the Trainspotting author.
The film, 'The Good Arrows', is due to be screened in January 2009 on ITV. Colin will also be performing in it.
The new single’s download release will also come with two previously unreleased tracks of Colin's: 'You & Me Ground Zero' and 'When Loser's Become Friends'
The Isle of Mull musician will play the following dates:
20th September Glasgow (King Tut's)21st September Liverpool (Academy 2)28th October London (Cargo)29th October Manchester (The Ruby Lounge)
Meanwhile 'You're A Star', the opening track of 'The Water' has been confirmed as the title track for a new ITV mockumentary film written and co-directed by Irvine Welsh, the Trainspotting author.
The film, 'The Good Arrows', is due to be screened in January 2009 on ITV. Colin will also be performing in it.
The Music Frontman, Rob Harvey Slams Download Culture
The Music singer Rob Harvey admits that he feels let down by the digital revolution. Harvey claims music has become too disposable due to the rise in downloads and the fall in record sales.
Speaking to BBC News Harvey said: "Songs have just become an accessory now, they're not something to believe in anymore and they can't change lives like they used too."
The frontman also criticised big bands for giving away free downloads and not helping unsigned acts, saying "I think it's becoming increasingly more difficult for unsigned bands to do anything and I find it bizarre that bands who give music away act like saviours when they could quite easily be helping smaller bands on the label who can't afford to even tour."
He stated "I just feel there is less investment in real music now."
Bands such as Coldplay and Keane allowed fans to download singles for free. Other bands have made albums available for nothing such as the Charlatans, Prince and Nine Inch Nails.
"Music is throwaway now and you can just get hold of a song by pushing a button," he said.
The Music are to release new single, Drugs, taken from Strength In Numbers album, on the 13th October. The band are also due to start a 6 date tour of the UK in October.
Tour dates are as follows:
22nd Iron Works, Inverness
23rd Kinema, Dunfermline
25th Fat Sam’s, Dundee
26th Moshulu, Aberdeen
27th Picture House, Edinburgh
29th Roundhouse, London
Speaking to BBC News Harvey said: "Songs have just become an accessory now, they're not something to believe in anymore and they can't change lives like they used too."
The frontman also criticised big bands for giving away free downloads and not helping unsigned acts, saying "I think it's becoming increasingly more difficult for unsigned bands to do anything and I find it bizarre that bands who give music away act like saviours when they could quite easily be helping smaller bands on the label who can't afford to even tour."
He stated "I just feel there is less investment in real music now."
Bands such as Coldplay and Keane allowed fans to download singles for free. Other bands have made albums available for nothing such as the Charlatans, Prince and Nine Inch Nails.
"Music is throwaway now and you can just get hold of a song by pushing a button," he said.
The Music are to release new single, Drugs, taken from Strength In Numbers album, on the 13th October. The band are also due to start a 6 date tour of the UK in October.
Tour dates are as follows:
22nd Iron Works, Inverness
23rd Kinema, Dunfermline
25th Fat Sam’s, Dundee
26th Moshulu, Aberdeen
27th Picture House, Edinburgh
29th Roundhouse, London
Monday 1 September 2008
Digitalism – Liquid Rooms, Edinburgh – 23rd August 2008
By the time I arrived at the Liquid Rooms in Edinburgh I missed the first of the two support acts for tonight’s sold out gig, We Are Electric DJ. However I managed to see the second support act, Craig Brown aka Satellite Dub.
Satellite Dub won a competition run by STV, DF Concerts & 32Music to give an up and coming new act the chance to support one of the festival acts at the Edge Festival, which runs alongside The Edinburgh Festival.
A worthy winner in my opinion, Satellite Dub could give the likes of the Chemical Brothers, Orbital and Daft Punk a run for their money, delivering groovy beats with a thunderous, pumping, heavy bass managing to get the crowd ready for Digitalism no problem.
The indie-dance crossover duo from Hamburg gets everyone going from the offset with their distinctive heavy dance tune Zdarlight. The heart pumping heavy distortion, deafening beats and incessant strobe manage to add to the enthusiasm and energy levels of the Edinburgh crowd.
The sweat soaked crowd remain like this throughout tracks such as Idealistic and the celestial overtones of Jupiter Room. The set was brought to a close with the heavily distorted, rough grooves of the infectious track, Pogo.
Starlet
Satellite Dub won a competition run by STV, DF Concerts & 32Music to give an up and coming new act the chance to support one of the festival acts at the Edge Festival, which runs alongside The Edinburgh Festival.
A worthy winner in my opinion, Satellite Dub could give the likes of the Chemical Brothers, Orbital and Daft Punk a run for their money, delivering groovy beats with a thunderous, pumping, heavy bass managing to get the crowd ready for Digitalism no problem.
The indie-dance crossover duo from Hamburg gets everyone going from the offset with their distinctive heavy dance tune Zdarlight. The heart pumping heavy distortion, deafening beats and incessant strobe manage to add to the enthusiasm and energy levels of the Edinburgh crowd.
The sweat soaked crowd remain like this throughout tracks such as Idealistic and the celestial overtones of Jupiter Room. The set was brought to a close with the heavily distorted, rough grooves of the infectious track, Pogo.
Starlet
Friday 29 August 2008
Slash Hopes Blogger Who Leaked Unreleased Tracks - “Rots In Jail”
Kevin Cogill, the blogger suspected of leaking tracks from Guns N Roses' forthcoming album 'Chinese Democracy' was arrested in Los Angeles yesterday.
The 27 year old was taken into custody by FBI agents on suspicion of violating federal copyright laws. He later appeared in court, where his bail was set at $10,000, he could face up to three years in prison and $250,000 in fines.
The accused admitted that he posted nine unreleased Guns N Roses songs on his website in June, according to an arrest affidavit, reports the Associated Press.
A preliminary hearing on the matter is set for 17th September. Prosecutors claim that the leak may have caused "significant" financial losses for the band.
According to Latimes.com the band released a statement saying:
"Presently, though we don't support this guy's actions at that level, our interest is in the original source. We can't comment publicly at this time as the investigation is ongoing."
Former Guns N Roses guitarist Slash, who has not performed on the album, slammed the blogger saying "I hope he rots in jail. It's going to affect the sales of the record, and it's not fair. The internet is what it is, and you have to deal with it accordingly, but I think if someone goes and steals something, its theft."
Kevin Cogill's lawyer, Anthony Eaglin, has so far refused to comment.
The 27 year old was taken into custody by FBI agents on suspicion of violating federal copyright laws. He later appeared in court, where his bail was set at $10,000, he could face up to three years in prison and $250,000 in fines.
The accused admitted that he posted nine unreleased Guns N Roses songs on his website in June, according to an arrest affidavit, reports the Associated Press.
A preliminary hearing on the matter is set for 17th September. Prosecutors claim that the leak may have caused "significant" financial losses for the band.
According to Latimes.com the band released a statement saying:
"Presently, though we don't support this guy's actions at that level, our interest is in the original source. We can't comment publicly at this time as the investigation is ongoing."
Former Guns N Roses guitarist Slash, who has not performed on the album, slammed the blogger saying "I hope he rots in jail. It's going to affect the sales of the record, and it's not fair. The internet is what it is, and you have to deal with it accordingly, but I think if someone goes and steals something, its theft."
Kevin Cogill's lawyer, Anthony Eaglin, has so far refused to comment.
Noah And The Whale – Cabaret Voltaire, Edinburgh – 15th August 2008
Edinburgh’s Cabaret Voltaire was packed full for the Noah and the Whale gig; the stage also looked a bit overcrowded.
The Edinburgh crowd was a real mix of people from all walks of life, young and old alike were excited by the London band, who romped through their dreamy, catchy, pop-folk tunes from their recently released debut album, Peaceful, the World Lays Me Down.
Their performance was both energetic and charming in equal measures with their carefully-crafted folk melodies and beautiful lyrics.
One of the highlights of the night was the sophisticated and moving performance of 2 Bodies 1 Heart with its soft subtle acoustics, elegant violin and beautiful lyrics.
The crowd show their appreciation as soon as they hear the distinctive intro of the whistling anthem Five Years Time. The crowd raised the roof when they played the fantastic set-closer, Rocks & Daggers.
These guys have definitely proved their worth to the Edinburgh crowd; I think we’ll be seeing a lot more of them for a long time to come. Noah And The Whale are just getting started!
Starlet
The Edinburgh crowd was a real mix of people from all walks of life, young and old alike were excited by the London band, who romped through their dreamy, catchy, pop-folk tunes from their recently released debut album, Peaceful, the World Lays Me Down.
Their performance was both energetic and charming in equal measures with their carefully-crafted folk melodies and beautiful lyrics.
One of the highlights of the night was the sophisticated and moving performance of 2 Bodies 1 Heart with its soft subtle acoustics, elegant violin and beautiful lyrics.
The crowd show their appreciation as soon as they hear the distinctive intro of the whistling anthem Five Years Time. The crowd raised the roof when they played the fantastic set-closer, Rocks & Daggers.
These guys have definitely proved their worth to the Edinburgh crowd; I think we’ll be seeing a lot more of them for a long time to come. Noah And The Whale are just getting started!
Starlet
Cast Your Vote - The Vodafone Live Music Awards 2008
You can vote for your favourite live act, festival or tour at this years Vodafone Live Music Awards. If you cast your votes before 12pm on Monday 1st September you could be in with a chance of winning 2 VIP tickets for the event.
This year’s event will be hosted by Hollywood actress Juliette Lewis and T4 presenter Steve Jones. It will be staged at Brixton Academy on Thursday 18th September. There will be performances from The Ting Tings and Estelle.
Your vote will help give the live act that you love, the recognition they deserve. You can vote for as many categories as you like, but remember – you can only vote once.
The Ting Tings, Glasvegas, Foals and The Wombats have all been nominated in the live breakthrough category. This year's best live act nominations include The Verve, Kaiser Chiefs, Primal Scream and Muse.
The Verve have also been nominated in the best live return category alongside The Spice Girls, Led Zeppelin and James. Iron Maiden were also originally nominated in this category but they asked to be removed because they said they had never actually stopped touring.
Mark Ronson, Dizzee Rascal, Morrissey and Paul Weller have all been nominated for the best male category while Amy Winehouse, Duffy, Kate Nash and Estelle battle it out in the best female category.
In the Sony Ericsson tour of the year category, Sugababes' Changes tour, the NME Awards Tour 2008 and Girls Aloud’s Tangled Up tour are up for nomination. Nominees for best international act include the Foo Fighters, Jay Z, N*E*R*D and Kings of Leon.
Reading/Leeds, Glastonbury, T In The Park and Latitude are nominated for festival of the year.
For more information go to: www.vodafonemusic.co.uk/awards2008
This year’s event will be hosted by Hollywood actress Juliette Lewis and T4 presenter Steve Jones. It will be staged at Brixton Academy on Thursday 18th September. There will be performances from The Ting Tings and Estelle.
Your vote will help give the live act that you love, the recognition they deserve. You can vote for as many categories as you like, but remember – you can only vote once.
The Ting Tings, Glasvegas, Foals and The Wombats have all been nominated in the live breakthrough category. This year's best live act nominations include The Verve, Kaiser Chiefs, Primal Scream and Muse.
The Verve have also been nominated in the best live return category alongside The Spice Girls, Led Zeppelin and James. Iron Maiden were also originally nominated in this category but they asked to be removed because they said they had never actually stopped touring.
Mark Ronson, Dizzee Rascal, Morrissey and Paul Weller have all been nominated for the best male category while Amy Winehouse, Duffy, Kate Nash and Estelle battle it out in the best female category.
In the Sony Ericsson tour of the year category, Sugababes' Changes tour, the NME Awards Tour 2008 and Girls Aloud’s Tangled Up tour are up for nomination. Nominees for best international act include the Foo Fighters, Jay Z, N*E*R*D and Kings of Leon.
Reading/Leeds, Glastonbury, T In The Park and Latitude are nominated for festival of the year.
For more information go to: www.vodafonemusic.co.uk/awards2008
Friday 22 August 2008
The Last Shadow Puppets To Play At BBC Electric Proms 2008
The Last Shadow Puppets, The Streets, Nitin Sawhney, Tony Christie, Wild Beasts and XX Teens are amongst the first names confirmed to play at the BBC Electric Proms 2008.
Wave Machines and The Maybes are also set to play shows, which will take place in London and Liverpool from 22nd – 26th October.
The specific dates each act will perform on are yet to be released, it has been confirmed that The Last Shadow Puppets will play in the Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall on the 24th October. Otherwise The Streets and Nitin Sawhney are set to play at the London Roundhouse.The festival which is dedicated to creating new moments in music, will kick off in Liverpool with legendary singer Tony Christie playing on the Royal Daffodil Ferry.
BBC Radio Merseyside's Dave Monks will introduce sets from local bands Wave Machines and The Maybes in the station's performance space, while rising stars XX Teens and Wild Beasts will perform in London.
Liverpool, the European Capital of Culture, is to co-host the BBC Electric Proms for the first time at venues including the Philharmonic Hall, Barfly and BBC Radio Merseyside.
In London, shows will return to venues across Camden including the Roundhouse, Barfly, KOKO, Dingwalls and the Electric Ballroom.
More than 80 artists are to appear at the BBC Electric Proms 2008 and each performance will aim to create a new musical experience. Whether collaborations between new and established acts or new material performed for the first time, audiences are guaranteed to see and hear something truly memorable whether at the venue, watching and listening on the BBC, interacting with red button technology or on mobile.
Tickets will go on sale on the 17th September. There will also be further additions to the line up revealed then.
Wave Machines and The Maybes are also set to play shows, which will take place in London and Liverpool from 22nd – 26th October.
The specific dates each act will perform on are yet to be released, it has been confirmed that The Last Shadow Puppets will play in the Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall on the 24th October. Otherwise The Streets and Nitin Sawhney are set to play at the London Roundhouse.The festival which is dedicated to creating new moments in music, will kick off in Liverpool with legendary singer Tony Christie playing on the Royal Daffodil Ferry.
BBC Radio Merseyside's Dave Monks will introduce sets from local bands Wave Machines and The Maybes in the station's performance space, while rising stars XX Teens and Wild Beasts will perform in London.
Liverpool, the European Capital of Culture, is to co-host the BBC Electric Proms for the first time at venues including the Philharmonic Hall, Barfly and BBC Radio Merseyside.
In London, shows will return to venues across Camden including the Roundhouse, Barfly, KOKO, Dingwalls and the Electric Ballroom.
More than 80 artists are to appear at the BBC Electric Proms 2008 and each performance will aim to create a new musical experience. Whether collaborations between new and established acts or new material performed for the first time, audiences are guaranteed to see and hear something truly memorable whether at the venue, watching and listening on the BBC, interacting with red button technology or on mobile.
Tickets will go on sale on the 17th September. There will also be further additions to the line up revealed then.
Rage Against The Machine Set To Headline 1st Day Of Reading Festival
Rage Against The Machine will headline on the main stage at the Reading Festival tonight, Friday 22nd August.
They will take to the main stage for their headline slot after sets from Queens Of The Stone Age and The Fratellis. Other acts set to perform on the Main Stage are Biffy Clyro, Serj Tankian and Dizzee Rascal.
Going head-to-head with the rockers are Babyshambles, who are set to headline the NME/Radio 1 Stage. They will play after sets from the likes of The Wombats, Vampire Weekend, MGMT and Pete And The Pirates.
Dan Le Sac Vs Scroobius Pip headline the Festival Republic Stage. They will play after Does It Offend You Yeah?, Late Of The Pier, Friendly Fires and These New Puritans.
This is the first year the BBC Introducing stage, which showcases a host of new up and coming acts, has featured at the three day event.
The weekend forecast is expected to be a mixture of sun and showers at the Reading site while Leeds is expected to be rain free for almost the entire festival.
They will take to the main stage for their headline slot after sets from Queens Of The Stone Age and The Fratellis. Other acts set to perform on the Main Stage are Biffy Clyro, Serj Tankian and Dizzee Rascal.
Going head-to-head with the rockers are Babyshambles, who are set to headline the NME/Radio 1 Stage. They will play after sets from the likes of The Wombats, Vampire Weekend, MGMT and Pete And The Pirates.
Dan Le Sac Vs Scroobius Pip headline the Festival Republic Stage. They will play after Does It Offend You Yeah?, Late Of The Pier, Friendly Fires and These New Puritans.
This is the first year the BBC Introducing stage, which showcases a host of new up and coming acts, has featured at the three day event.
The weekend forecast is expected to be a mixture of sun and showers at the Reading site while Leeds is expected to be rain free for almost the entire festival.
Friday 15 August 2008
MTV Video of The Year Nomination For The Ting Tings
The Ting Tings' 'Shut Up And Let Me Go' video has been nominated for video of the year at this year's MTV Music Video Awards in the US.
The ceremony, which will be hosted by Russell Brand, takes place at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Sunday 7th September.
The Salford duo, who have also been nominated in the best UK video category, will be up against Britney Spears ('Piece Of Me'), the Pussycat Dolls ('When I Grow Up') and the Jonas Brothers ('Burnin' Up').
Nominees for the award were chosen after MTV.com users voted for their favourite videos from the past year.
Nominees Foo Fighters, Paramore, Fall Out Boy, Slipknot and Linkin Park are set to compete for the title of best rock video.
The ceremony, which will be hosted by Russell Brand, takes place at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Sunday 7th September.
The Salford duo, who have also been nominated in the best UK video category, will be up against Britney Spears ('Piece Of Me'), the Pussycat Dolls ('When I Grow Up') and the Jonas Brothers ('Burnin' Up').
Nominees for the award were chosen after MTV.com users voted for their favourite videos from the past year.
Nominees Foo Fighters, Paramore, Fall Out Boy, Slipknot and Linkin Park are set to compete for the title of best rock video.
Mark Ronson signs The Rumble Strips
Mark Ronson has signed British five-piece The Rumble Strips to his own record label, the first band on Ronson's new Allido label.
Mark Ronson is also set to produce the second album by The Rumble Strips. Recording will take place this September, with a view to releasing some time early next year, spring 2009.
It is the follow up to their acclaimed debut album, Girls and Weather, which reached number 70 in the album chart in September last year.
Ronson explained in a statement how he first became aware of The Rumble Strips when he heard their cover of Amy Winehouse's 'Back To Black', the original of which Ronson produced."I came across The Rumble Strips through their cover of 'Back To Black', and Amy and I agreed it was kind of better than our own," he said."I picked up their album and fell in love with it," he continued. "Then I decided I wanted to sign them to my label and work on their next album. It was really as straightforward as that. We're all very excited about this."
The Rumble Strips are due to tour the UK in October.
Mark Ronson is also set to produce the second album by The Rumble Strips. Recording will take place this September, with a view to releasing some time early next year, spring 2009.
It is the follow up to their acclaimed debut album, Girls and Weather, which reached number 70 in the album chart in September last year.
Ronson explained in a statement how he first became aware of The Rumble Strips when he heard their cover of Amy Winehouse's 'Back To Black', the original of which Ronson produced."I came across The Rumble Strips through their cover of 'Back To Black', and Amy and I agreed it was kind of better than our own," he said."I picked up their album and fell in love with it," he continued. "Then I decided I wanted to sign them to my label and work on their next album. It was really as straightforward as that. We're all very excited about this."
The Rumble Strips are due to tour the UK in October.
Friday 8 August 2008
New Acts Set To Rock Edinburgh Fringe Crowds This Sunday
The Performing Right Society (PRS) supports new music by giving new talent a platform to perform....
Nine acts have been chosen to play on the PRS New Music Stage in Edinburgh this Sunday, 10th August 2008 from 11am to 5pm.
PRS New Music Stage is aimed at showcasing new music, giving more new talent the chance to perform in front of the Edinburgh Fringe crowds.
Around five hundred acts from all across the UK applied online for the chance to perform at this years event.
A panel of industry judges had the unenviable task of selecting just nine acts from the five hundred.
Fringe Sunday attracts over 200,000 visitors annually and is the family day of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
The PRS is excited to showcase a variety of new music spanning across a number of genres including rock, folk, experimental, pop and jazz at the New Music Stage in The Meadows, Melville Drive.
XFM DG, Jim Gellatly will get things underway at 11:30 before the following acts take to the stage:
11.50 - Dave Arcari, Glasgow
12.25 – Molloy, London
13.00 - Juzzie Smith, Australia
13.35 - Punch and the Apostles, Glasgow
14.10 - Eliza Wren Payne, London
14.45 - Luva Anna, Dundee
15.20 - Tom Hickox, London
15.55 - We See Lights, Edinburgh
16.30 - The Vibrants, London
For more information, go to: www.mcps-prs-alliance.co.uk/PlaytheFringewithPRS
Nine acts have been chosen to play on the PRS New Music Stage in Edinburgh this Sunday, 10th August 2008 from 11am to 5pm.
PRS New Music Stage is aimed at showcasing new music, giving more new talent the chance to perform in front of the Edinburgh Fringe crowds.
Around five hundred acts from all across the UK applied online for the chance to perform at this years event.
A panel of industry judges had the unenviable task of selecting just nine acts from the five hundred.
Fringe Sunday attracts over 200,000 visitors annually and is the family day of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
The PRS is excited to showcase a variety of new music spanning across a number of genres including rock, folk, experimental, pop and jazz at the New Music Stage in The Meadows, Melville Drive.
XFM DG, Jim Gellatly will get things underway at 11:30 before the following acts take to the stage:
11.50 - Dave Arcari, Glasgow
12.25 – Molloy, London
13.00 - Juzzie Smith, Australia
13.35 - Punch and the Apostles, Glasgow
14.10 - Eliza Wren Payne, London
14.45 - Luva Anna, Dundee
15.20 - Tom Hickox, London
15.55 - We See Lights, Edinburgh
16.30 - The Vibrants, London
For more information, go to: www.mcps-prs-alliance.co.uk/PlaytheFringewithPRS
Enemy Frontman Injured during Very First US Gig
The Enemy were performing their first ever American gig at the Lollapalooza music festival in Chicago, Illinois when frontman Tom Clarke sliced off the end of his finger.
Clarke told NME.com, "I managed to slash the end off my finger playing guitar - there was f**king blood everywhere.”
Despite his injury the singer managed to battle through the rest of the set.
After the set a doctor ordered the Coventry trio to cancel their appearance at the Osheaga Festival in Montreal, Canada.
The band are still scheduled to appear at the Troubadour in Los Angeles tonight (07Aug08).
Clarke said the accident was "an occupational hazard."
Clarke told NME.com, "I managed to slash the end off my finger playing guitar - there was f**king blood everywhere.”
Despite his injury the singer managed to battle through the rest of the set.
After the set a doctor ordered the Coventry trio to cancel their appearance at the Osheaga Festival in Montreal, Canada.
The band are still scheduled to appear at the Troubadour in Los Angeles tonight (07Aug08).
Clarke said the accident was "an occupational hazard."
Monday 9 June 2008
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