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SINGLE NEWS: Clue Club Vol: 3 Mini Skirt/Night Owls AA-side

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The third Clue Club digital release is out now as a split AA-Side featuring the love soaked tones of MINI SKIRT and some heartfelt grunge from Night Owls.

MINI SKIRT’s ‘French Kiss’. MINI SKIRT is Abby + Dan, the track is their debut release. This is fantastic, it’s dreamy, swoony, all sorts of delicious. You can sink into it. Wonderful.

Abby explained “This song is my ode to being a teenager and all the weird feelings that come with it. We tried to incorporate my favourite artists, e.g. The Smiths and Alvvays, to make my first release quite special.”

Dan said “Abby sent me the demo and I loved it! The chorus was written 10 minutes later. Words and everything. “I’ll run to wherever you are. So drunk, French kissing in your car” was the first thing that came to my head. Not sure what that says about a person. I’ll avoid the Freudian psychodynamic paradigm for now.”

MINI SKIRT

Night Owls’ ‘Honestly’. An interesting pairing with MINI SKIRT’s track but it works. Huge chorus. Grungey with space in the music where it needs space, wonderfully dense where needs to be dense. And it has has the this fantastic ending.

Will explains “Honestly is a song for your favourite person in the world. The pages to your book, the Holly to your Ivy, the spam to your fritters, the duck to your water, the brown sauce to your pork pie, the Brad to your Pitt. Maybe you can serenade this person with this song over a candle lit dinner…or maybe not.”

Night Owls

The AA-side can be purchased here: https://www.musicglue.com/clueclub/products/mini-skirt-slash-night-owls-cc-vol-3-download or streamed

Or you can of course join Clue Club!

What is Clue Club?

Clue Club is the monthly music club from Clue Records. Each month sees a different act have a track released alongside a fanzine curated and created by the act involved. People who join Clue Club get a monthly zine, a t-shirt, a tote bag, a compilation CD, monthly podcasts, discounts and more. A year’s subscription costs just £20 (inc free UK P+P). People can join Clue Club at www.cluerecords.com

EP & GIG NEWS: Violet Youth release ‘Primary Nature’ 8th September, upcoming gigs

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Blackburn based four-piece, Violet Youth are set to release their new EP, their first on fledgling imprint Modern Sky UK, on the 8th of September 2017.

The ‘Primary Nature’ EP was recorded in Liverpool with the Sugar House producers who have recently worked with the likes of Pale Waves and Stillia. The follow up to the recent ‘Reliable Sources’ single, the new EP features four new tracks including lead track ‘She Said’ which is arguably their finest pop moment to date.

The Violet Youth line up of Owen Carswell (Guitar/ Lead Vocals), Charlie Feeney (Lead Guitar), Jonny Birtwistle (Bass/ Backing Vocals) and Jack Perry (Drums) formed last year and have so far released two singles; the debut ‘Lucid Dreams’ and the aforementioned ‘Reliable Sources’. Quickly attracting the attention of critics and public alike, they picked up good press from Little Indie Blogs, Glamglare and Get Into This together with radio plays from the likes of John Kennedy (Radio X), Shell Zenner (Amazing Radio) and BBC Introducing.

Violet Youth play a special hometown show to preview the EP at The Bureau on the 29th July prior to a date with Plastic House at The Deaf Institute in Manchester on the 19th of August.

LIVE DATES:

JUL 29TH THE BUREAU, BLACKBURN
AUG 19TH THE DEAF INSTITUITE, MANCHESTER
OCT 07TH GULLIVERS, MANCHESTER
OCT 14TH OXJAM FESTIVAL – THE MOORINGS, SOWERBY BRIDGE

https://www.facebook.com/VioletYouthband |https://twitter.com/VioletYouth_

TOUR NEWS: Singer-songwriter Siobhan Wilson announces a UK tour for September

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Multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter Siobhan Wilson has announced a UK tour for September 2017.

UPCOMING LIVE DATES

8th September – The Blue Lamp, Aberdeen
9th September – The Drouthy Cobbler, Elgin
11th September – The Castle, Manchester
16th September – The Bothy, Glenbuchat
17th September – The Basement, York
18th September – Kenilworth Arts Festival
19th September – The Musician, Leicester*
21st September – Kitchen Garden Cafe, Birmingham
22nd September – The Hall, Lancaster
24th September – Voodoo Room, Edinburgh
26th September – Tolbooth, Stirling

* supporting Saul Rose & James Delarre

More dates tbc

The info

Brought up in Elgin, Morayshire, Siobhan Wilson discovered music at an early age, first studying classical piano and cello, and later playing in youth orchestras across Scotland. Her fascination with French culture and language prompted her to move to France shortly after finishing high school. Paris was the place where Siobhan first started developing her songwriting skills, going to open mic nights and immersing herself in French musical tradition. Whilst in France she posted her tracks on MySpace. Her songs were discovered by a French label and sparked a crowdfunding campaign that enabled her to record and release her debut album Songs.

Since returning to Scotland, Siobhan has made two EPs and a single, receiving critical praise and radio play across the BBC network (Radio 1, Radio 2, Radio 6 Music, BBC Scotland). In 2014 her “angry prayer” track ‘Dear God’ was included on Song, By Toad’s Insider Festival Split 12″ Vol 3. Two years on, a chance meeting with the label founder Matthew Young lead to a discussion of a new album Siobhan was working on with a producer and member of Catholic Action Chris McCrory. Matthew had no hesitation about the album: “Generally, I make sure to listen to things through several times and properly think things over before offering to release a record, but on this one, I was about halfway through the first song and I knew we’d want to put it out.”

Still and delicate, with occasional hints of sinister undercurrents, the album is a collection of stunningly beautiful songs dealing with heartache, art and religious faith. Most of the vocals on the album were done in one take, with minimal arrangements highlighting the expressive vulnerability of the recordings.

The title of the LP is a reflection of the songwriter’s thoughts and feelings about the world and humanity. “There are no humans with a moral sense inherently greater than anyone else’s,” says Siobhan, adding that questioning faith is something that frequently occupies her mind. “Our moral code is in the equal measure imposed upon and chosen by us. And, of course, this applies to ideas we discover, including religion and musical harmony. For me, music is a form of religion fundamentally rooted in practice.”

A tribute to Siobhan’s love of Gallic culture, two of the album tracks are in French. She admits that singing in French is something that comes naturally: “It feels really relaxed and rolls off the tongue in a different way to English or other languages.” Her classical music upbringing can also be glimpsed on some of the tracks. ‘There Are No Saints’ and ‘It Must Have Been the Moon’ bear echoes of choral music; whereas harpsichord-layered ‘Dystopian Bach’ (“the sound of my brain when I’m trying to sleep”) takes a diversion into a more experimental territory, giving a hint of a possible future musical direction. The singer’s favourite is ‘Disaster and Grace’. “I tried to make the arrangement paint the words at certain points,” says Siobhan. “It switches time metre a few times and I can hear myself almost crying in it.”

Charting through the moments of intense emotions, deep thoughts and blissful memories, There Are No Saints is written from a place of contemplation and courage, and fashioned into a dark fairy tale by Siobhan Wilson’s dreamlike vocals and simple arrangements. It is an eloquent and brave musical collection, the sound of a young songwriter displaying confidence in her work and expanding her artistic horizons.

There are no saints is out now on Song, By Toad.

ORDER There Are No Saints (Digital/CD/Vinyl):
https://songbytoadrecords.bandcamp.com/album/there-are-no-saints

FESTIVAL NEWS: HOPE & GLORY, 5th/6th August, Liverpool – final announcements

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With just one week to go until Liverpool’s newest boutique festival HOPE & GLORY takes over the city centre, the festival are pleased to announce more exciting additions and surprises to an already spectacular array of live music and entertainment taking place across the weekend of the 4th, 5th and 6th of August.

Alongside the previously announced Black Grape, the first 1,200 early birds to purchase festival tickets, will also be treated to a headline performance from Liverpool’s very own Cast on Friday 4th August at St. George’s Hall. This ‘not so’ secret free gig will also feature performances from Chris Helme (Seahorses), Redfaces, Vida and a unique performance of The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band as part of Liverpool’s 50 Summers Of Love Celebrations. Those lucky early birds will be listening to the classic album in a way that has never been performed before.

HOPE & GLORY are also pleased to announce that festival-goers attending the Sunday night will be witness to an incredible supergroup comprised of some of the biggest legends of the Liverpool and Manchester music scenes and more coming together for one night only for an exclusive performance on the festival main stage of the Beatles classic ‘All You Need Is Love’. Promoter Lee O’Hanlon said, “We are incredibly excited and humbled that these amazing artists have agreed to our request to perform together. All will be revealed at the festival.”

Those with Saturday tickets only will be given the opportunity to purchase an upgrade to a weekend ticket at the onsite box office during the festival on a first-come-first-served basis.

These new additions to the bill will be joining the festival’s incredible line-up – including headliners JAMES and HAÇIENDA ÇLASSICAL, Razorlight, Ocean Colour Scene, The Fratellis, Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon, The Lightning Seeds and more, plus some of the most exciting up and coming talent such as The Blinders, The Shimmer Band and Zak Abel. Embrace will also perform at HOPE & GLORY having just supported Coldplay, playing to 65,000 people a night at their recent stadium shows.

Ticket buyers can also get involved in the festival’s Victoriana fancy dress competition, with one lucky winner walking away with £1,000 and two tickets to next year’s HOPE & GLORY, so expect handle-bar moustaches, bearded ladies and bloomers galore!

There will be numerous more weird and wonderful things happening across the site of this family-friendly event, including pop up comedians, a Football Legends charity darts match, celebrity arm wrestling, The Victorian Acrobatic Team, Harminder the Elephant and Dinosaur Baby in the Pram and Lord Of The Lobsters, as well as a Foam Party, Prince Albert’s Little Secret (cocktail bar), Mothers Ruin (gin bar), Mr Edison’s Electric Emporium, Dr Johnson’s Clandestine Gathering, The Hoop & Stick and Darwin’s Little Darlings.

All ticket profits will be donated to the victims and families of the Manchester attacks, so grab your top hats, bonnets, capes and cravats and join the fun in 2017’s hottest new festival.

Tickets available from
HopeAndGloryFestival.co.uk / Eventbrite.com / SEEtickets.com

Weekend Tickets (inc. booking fee):
Adult £89
Under 16s £59
Under 10s £49
Under 5s £FREE

FESTIVAL NEWS: Cotton Clouds, Saddleworth Cricket Club, 12th August 2017

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With Cotton Clouds set to eclipse expectations with sell-out first formation – the last few tickets now remain only online, available to purchase via the official festival website.

Due to overwhelming demand, less than 200 tickets now remain for the inaugural Cotton Clouds Festival – the all new one day festival set amidst the vales and hills of the stunning Peak District National Park.

Conjured up from the blue-sky thinking of organisers and local lads Max & Rick Lees along with fellow entrepreneur Luke Stanley, the Cotton Clouds trio invite you to join them for a day of idyllic escapism and top-flight entertainment.

Taking place on 12th of August and boasting stratospheric bill that’s simply bursting with pop pedigree, the one-day extravaganza in Saddleworth (Greater Manchester) will host radiant performances from the likes of The Coral, The Sugarhill Gang, Nick Heyward, The Whip, PINS, Everly Pregnant Brothers, Clint Boon (DJ set) and many more….

Hosting an eclectic line up of artists across three expertly curated stages, plus an array of activities on site for all ages, Cotton Clouds Festival promises something for everyone…

NEW LINE UP ADDITION: ROGUE EMPEROR

Cotton Clouds is delighted to announce new additions – ROGUE EMPEROR – will be joining the line up gathered on the Main Stage. The emerging Manchester supergroup comprise a dazzling collaboration between former Elbow drummer Richard Jupp and Doves keyboardist Martin Rebelski. The pair are joined by 1,2,3,4’s guitarist Mike TV – who can often be found backing Badly Drawn Boy – and renowned session bassist Ollie Collins.

Speaking on Rogue Emperor’s soaring atmospheric sound, Jupp expands:

“Make no mistake, this is dance music. It’s designed for the dancefloor – its electronic but with our own take on it. It’s a seriously big sound and we can’t wait to play it live to an audience.”

Rogue Emperor’s debut single is called Holy Ghost, mixed by Doves guitarist/producer Jez Williams, is available from www.rogueemperor.com

FOOD & DRINK – A TASTER

Specially selected street food stalls, pop up bars and a real ale tent will be augmenting your experience, serving all manner of tantalising tastes and delectable drinks sure to cater to your every fancy…

Did someone say drinks? We’ll have you covered with our fully stocked bar & the addition of a special Prosecco bar courtesy of Prosecco At Tiffany’s!

Tim Peaks Diner has proved a real festival favourite over the past 6 years. We are honoured to welcome Tim Burgess’ legendary diner to the very first Cotton Clouds Festival. From damn fine coffee to mind-blowing secret sets. You never know who you might bump into!

We’re also looking forward to being joined by Grandpa Greene’s Luxury Ice Cream – it doesn’t get much better than sunshine, music and ice-cream! And for those conscientious consumers ISpice will be bringing their delicious fresh vegan street food to Cotton Clouds!

EVERY CLOUD HAS A SILVER LINING: SUPPORTED CHARITIES

Committed to creating a festival “we can all be proud of”, our Cotton Clouds organisers have pledged to donate funds to the Manchester Arena Bombing appeal, as well as the British Tinnitus Association, in memory of Greenfield based Craig Gill, former drummer with the Inspiral Carpets.

Having initially played festivals the world over as members of thunderous rock & roll outfit Twisted Wheel, Rick & Max Lees have instead opted to put their guitars back in the rack to take up greater roles in helping to establish Cotton Clouds Festival.

Speaking about the debut festival the Lees brothers said:

“Having played and worked at many festivals across the UK and Europe over the last 8 years we’ve built up the knowledge and contacts to finally make this work. Saddleworth is a beautiful setting for a festival and has a rich musical heritage but there hasn’t been a music event of this scale here since The Jam played here in 1979. We hope to build a reputable event that becomes part of the UK festival scene over the coming years.”

FAMILY FUN!

Offering something for all the family, there’ll also be loads to keep the kids occupied at Cotton Clouds Festival 2017. Whether you get stuck in with our sensational “sand art”, go for a fantastical new look at our face painting tent or make your own special memento for the first ever festival at our brilliant badge making classes, there’ll be plenty on hand for all ages to enjoy.

COTTON CLOUDS 2017: THE LINE UP

With over two decades of timeless songwriting and 8 celebrated albums now to their name – Cotton Clouds is delighted to announce – THE CORAL – will honour the Main Stage as festival headliners in 2017. Currently touring with the wispy psychedelia of their critically-acclaimed latest long-player “Distance Inbetween”, and with a back catalogue teeming with balmy and beatific indie pop hits such as “Dreaming of You”, “In The Morning”, “Pass It On”, “Jacqueline” and more, the wondrous Wirralers are in prime position to put you on cloud 9 this August.

With hopes-up for a red sky on the night, there’ll most certainly be Rappers Delight as US hip hop supremos – THE SUGARHILL GANG – bring their ground-breaking 1979 hit and a host of other treats to the main stage earlier in the evening. Plus a man who knows all the hallmarks of a Fantastic Day when he sees one from his years captaining Beckenham new-wave faves Haircut 100, – NICK HEYWARD – will be encouraging all to don their Favourite Shirts and join him for a sing-along through his time-tested Top 10 singles and highlights from his illustrious pop career.

Elsewhere on site, there’s a whirl of home-spun talent from the Northwest to be found with some dancefloor domination compliments of THE WHIP, eclectic and esoteric ukulele escapades with the EVERLY PREGNANT BROTHERS, plus full throttle rulebook-ripping outings from rockers THE BLINDERS, plus many, many more across three stages (see full line up below).

TICKETS

Tickets are priced at £39.00 + BF and are available on the Cotton Clouds Website:
http://www.cottoncloudsfestival.com/

LOCATION

Situated in the old, industrial textile powerhouse of Saddleworth and set against the breathtaking vista of the stunning Peak District National Park, Cotton Clouds Festival is just a short 30 minute trip by car or train east of Manchester.

By Car / Foot: – Address: Saddleworth Cricket Club, Well-I-Hole Rd, Greenfield, Oldham OL3 7HY

By Rail: – Nearest train station: Greenfield Station, OL3 7JZ

MAIN STAGE

The Coral
The Sugarhill Gang
Nick Heyward
The Whip
Everly Pregnant Brothers
Rogue Emperor
Gardenback
Stillia
+ Clint Boon + Gareth Brooks (DJ Sets)

JIMMY’S STAGE

PINS
Howling Rhythm & The Howling Horns
The Blinders
Hello Operator
Ethan & The Reformation
Shadow Palace

TIM PEAKS DINER

The Rhythm Method
The Sundowners
The G-O-D
Tear
Nev Cottee
Yucatan
Colour Me Wednesday
Proletariat

 

ALBUM & TOUR NEWS: Mollie Marriott releases ‘Truth Is A Wolf’ 3rd November, tours with Bad Touch November/December 2017

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Mollie Marriott is very proud of her heritage (daughter of former Small Faces and Humble Pie singer/guitarist Steve Marriott and step-daughter to singer Joe Brown) but it does not daunt her, she is ready to go it alone and will release her debut album “Truth Is A Wolf” on Friday 3 November 2017 via Amadeus Music.

‘Truth Is A Wolf’

Says Mollie, “I’m really excited about the album. It features a lot of different styles and I think it really showcases my vocals. We have a lot of fun making the album and I hope people enjoy listening to it. I can’t wait to perform the songs when we tour with Bad Touch during November”.

She has released ‘Control’ from the album, and this is supported by a music video.

“Control is all about taking back control of my music,” says Mollie. “It was important so this was the right single to start with. I’m in the driver’s seat going where I want to go. I co-wrote the song with Sam Tanner, lead vocalist with Brother Strut. We knew right from the beginning Control was the perfect song to release as the first single from the new album.”

Mollie began writing the debut album in Nashville and has fond memories of the recording process. She teamed up with Paul Weller whilst recording, who appears on two tracks, ‘Truth Is A Wolf’ and ‘King Of Hearts’.

Says Mollie, “I went to Nashville to start writing the album. The title track ‘Truth Is A Wolf’ was written by Gary Nicholson, he was going to give it to Bonnie Raitt or Susan Tedeschi – two artists who are big influences to me. I heard the demo just wurli and vocals and thought it summed up my album. It was the perfect tile song.”

“A lot of the songs reflect my life. ‘Broken’ is all about ending a relationship and the effect that had on me and my daughter. It’s a rock album, but there are also elements of gospel and country. It’s grungy, too. I am a grunge girl. I love Chris Cornell and Pearl Jam. Alanis Morrissette’s ‘Jagged Little Pill’ is a favourite album of mine, and also a big influence.”

DELUXE EDITION CD: TRACK LISTING

1. CONTROL
2. BROKEN
3. TRUTH IS A WOLF
4. GIVE ME A REASON
5. RUN WITH THE HOUNDS
6. LOVE YOUR BONES
7. TRANSFORMER
8. FORTUNATE FATE
9. KING OF HEARTS
10. MY HEAVEN CAN WAIT

BONUS TRACKS

11. ARMOUR
12. GRAVITY

Standard Edition CD features tracks 1-10

The album is available for pre-order now through www.molliemarriott.com available as Limited Edition Red Vinyl and Deluxe CD and Standard CD. Fan favourite Bundles are available with exclusive signed merchandise ranging from T Shirts, Posters, Set Lists, Unique Polaroid images and even house gigs. Anyone who pre-orders any of the bundles will receive Mollie’s first single “Control” as a thank you on Friday 28th July.

Mollie’s track by track

CONTROL
The band Dorothy inspired the vibe of this song. I was fed up of women using their femininity and beauty to get what they wanted and trampling over me and the people I loved. Taking us under their wing and then shitting on us from a great height. I’d had enough with everything combined and decided right, I’m taking my life back and I’m going to show you I don’t need you. It’s definitely a favourite to play live!

BROKEN
I wrote the bones of this when I was in Nashville. Most of the lyrics and melody with the drum beat and then took it to Sam. It was a time when I really looked back at my relationship with my daughter and realised how I had failed when my fiancé and I had split up. I was so blinded by hurt and thought she was so young she wouldn’t notice but she did so the song is about her. This is the one song I wish I didn’t know how to write. It’s an apology showing her that no matter what happens is us against the world.

TRUTH IS A WOLF
I didn’t write this but it was played it to me when I was in Nashville. I knew I had to have it, so begged Gary for a few days. It was one of those songs where I think,” Damn, I wish I wrote that.” I love the lyrics as they are quite dark and poetic. Musically, it was obvious where we were going to go with it. I wanted the classic old school sound to match it but with a modern hit and I think we got that. The lyrics summed up the whole album to me so it made sense to call the album it. Ties it all in a bow.

GIVE ME A REASON
I suppose this is my only lovey dove song. I had the bones of this track and we all built around it. This song is very personal to me and always broke my heart but now makes me smile. How lucky to be able to love like that! The background vocals of Sam, Jim and I always make me cry. One of my favourite songs “anytime you need a friend” by Mariah Carey inspired those background vocals.

RUN WITH THE HOUNDS
This song stemmed from the phrase “Run with the hare and hunt with the hounds.” It was shortly after I’d gone through hell with a previous label. We’d turned the phrase and made it as we have to run with the hounds to the same goal. I had the melody for the verse and bridge and then it all just flowed and came so quickly. It was originally a ballad but we got a Fleetwood Mac vibe into it from the drums.

LOVE YOUR BONES
I wrote this when my friend died unexpectedly from illness. It wasn’t meant to be terminal. I wrote it from his girlfriend’s point of view and it took quite a while to get this lyrically right. I used to say to him, “Oh I love your bones.” Again uncomfortable but true. Tori Amos inspired this one for me.

TRANSFORMER
I turned up to the session with the lyrics to the first verse. I was thinking on the train how much I changed when I was with a man. I was never myself and always morphed into what they wanted mainly much to my detriment. I thought it was quite powerful and something that a lot of people can relate to. I wanted the music to be very haunting in this to mirror the message of the ghost of your former self. It was important that it made people feel uncomfortable. It’s my favourite to sing, as it’s a constant reminder to just be me and the right person will accept it.

FORTUNATE FATE
This is the first song I wrote on guitar. Safe to say this was definitely Pearl Jam inspired. I wrote it for a friend who was creating a tea mess for himself and didn’t think I could see and I knew he was scared to admit it out of fear of judgement. This was my way of saying, “I know, it’s ok because I know this isn’t who you are it’s just you looking for an escape but let’s face this hand in hand together.”

KING OF HEARTS
Graham sent over a demo he’d done of just chords and I had the melody down in ten minutes of hearing it. I had a rough idea lyrically with “Walking in a straight line,” but sent it over to Jude who wrote the majority of the lyrics. I altered a few to fit to a situation that I had found myself in. Lyrically and musically, it’s quite sleazy and naughty, and that’s what I love that about it. I wanted this to sound quite grungy. It was actually one of my favourite recording experiences on the album. We had all the lights out and just rocked it all in one room.

MY HEAVEN CAN WAIT
This was the real lowest point of my epic emotional crash of 2012.  I was completely lost in everything and had truly hit rock bottom. This song is about how everyone kept telling me to get up and sort myself out, but I wasn’t ready to just yet. I had to stay there a while and wallow in it all. I knew I would awake from it at some point but had to in my own time. I think that’s important for everyone. I wrote it with Jim who let me crash. He said once I couldn’t get lower the only way is back up. When you stuff it down it will come back to haunt you in the future.

Musically we have the harmonica drone from Ben which I think brings that dark/ eerie element with a twist and I love that. I wanted the background vocals to sound haunting like the ghosts of my past.

BONUS TRACKS

ARMOUR
This song is one of my favourites. I love the simplicity of the production. It originally was a full band vibe but then a song by Florence and The Machine inspired me to just strip it to electric and it totally worked. Making the lyrics more prominent which is important to me. This is a battle of love. A frustration, a support and a best friend. I’m saying, “I’m here no matter how hard it is.”

GRAVITY
Tom sent me some chords that he’d put down a few years back and did nothing with. I instantly fell in love and had the melody done within an hour. This song took me two months to write and drove me mad! I had to get it right. This song is my homage to a man who has been in my life since I was six and helped me back on my feet.

NOVEMBER 2017 UK TOUR

ALL TICKETS £14
24 HR TICKET BOX OFFICE: 0844 478 0898
BOOK ONLINE – www.thegigcartel.com

Thursday 9 November: Sheffield Corporation
Friday 10 November: Leek Foxlowe Arts Centre
Thursday 16 November: Bristol Tunnels
Friday 17 November: Manchester Ruby Lounge
Saturday 18 November: Newcastle Cluny
Sunday 19 November: Nottingham Bodega
Thurs 23 November: Glasgow Stereo
Friday 24 November: Leeds Brudenell
Saturday 25 November: Coventry Empire
Sunday 26 November: London Islington Academy
Friday 1 December: Norwich Waterfront Studio
Saturday 2 December: Southampton Talking Heads

The info

Website: www.molliemarriott.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mollie.marriott
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MollieMarriott
Instagram: www.instagram.com/molliemarriott/

ALBUM & TOUR NEWS: The Darkness ‘Pinewood Smile’ released 8th October, tour November/December 2017

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Marking the announcement the band have today unveiled the spectacular album opener ‘All The Pretty Girls’, across all streaming platforms. It’s also available for download with pre-orders of the album for the instant gratification of fans. Listen here: https://youtu.be/4_QqAb47tYQ

Click here for details: https://TheDarkness.lnk.to/PS

‘All The Pretty Girls’ is a glorious, hard-rockin’, autobiographical anthem intellectually examining the fact that when you’re a rock star you get a lot of attention and discussing the ethical conundrums that come with that.

As Justin Hawkins so eloquently sings with trouser-splitting vocal magnificence; “All the pretty girls, like me for who I am / All the pretty girls, when the record goes platinum / Plenty of action, massive attraction, when you’re selling out stadiums / All the pretty girls… and their mums”. Hard-hitting social commentary, right there!

Addressing the forthcoming album and The Darkness’ undoubted relevance in 2017, Justin asks, somewhat rhetorically of the world at large, “Why should anybody care? Because if you don’t, we’re fucked!! History will remember us as the apathetic generation who negligently ushered in a dreadful dystopian age that may or may not come to be known as ‘The Rise of the Arseclowns’. We cannot allow this to continue! You may not give a shit about Brexit or Trump, but PLEASE… give a shit about The Darkness otherwise the last bastion of cultural sensibility will fall and our airwaves will be polluted by meaningless pop purveyed by arseholes and morons… Oh wait!”

Returning to save our airwaves from mediocre, auto-tuned tweens and that awful, throbby EDM shite, the album Pinewood Smile finds The Darkness on electrifying form, delivering some of the most sharp-witted, infectious, humorous and downright brilliant songs of their career.

In addition to the cerebral treatise of ‘All The Pretty Girls’, the album boasts the swashbuckling ‘Buccaneers Of Hispaniola’, the expletive-strewn howl of frustration that is ‘Southern Trains’, the hugely emotional ‘Why Don’t The Beautiful Cry?’, the globally anthemic ‘Japanese Prisoner Of Love’, and the ode to pumping out smash hit after smash hit ‘Solid Gold’, which finds The Darkness addressing the turbulent nature of the music industry and how they have enjoyed its flamboyant highs and spectacular lows.

Written in Putney, recorded in Cornwall and produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Adrian Bushby (Foo Fighters, Muse), the compositions have all the crucial elements of classic Darkness fare, but with added layers for the ears to peel away at… like a sonic onion but a lot tastier. It also features the drumming and vocal talents of gorgeous new band member Rufus Tiger Taylor, son of Queen legend Roger Taylor, who shares vocal duties with Justin on two of the tracks.

To celebrate the release of their comeback album Pinewood Smile, The Darkness will be touring extensively at the end of this year playing 17 dates in the UK throughout November and December. The shows are part of a wider European tour, full dates can be found at http://www.thedarknesslive.com/tour-dates/

PINEWOOD SMILE TRACKLIST

All The Pretty Girls
Buccaneers Of Hispaniola
Solid Gold
Southern Trains
Why Don’t The Beautiful Cry?
Japanese Prisoner Of Love
Lay Down With Me, Barbara
I Wish I Was In Heaven
Happiness
Stampede Of Love

The album will be released on CD, limited edition Deluxe CD (featuring four bonus tracks), Gatefold Heavyweight Vinyl, Cassette and in both Standard and Deluxe digital versions.

THE DARKNESS UK TOUR DATES

NOVEMBER
23/11 – Southampton, O2 Guildhall
24/11 – Manchester, Academy
25/11 – Blackburn, King George’s Hall
27/11 – Leeds, O2 Academy
28/11 – Newcastle, O2 Academy
29/11 – Glasgow, O2 Academy

DECEMBER
01/12 – Stoke-On-Trent, Victoria Hall
02/12 – Nottingham, Rock City
03/12 – Norwich, UEA
05/12 – Guildford, G Live
06/12 – Margate, Winter Gardens
07/12 – Southend-On-Sea, Cliffs Pavilion
09/12 – Birmingham, O2 Academy
10/12 – London, Eventim Apollo
11/12 – Brighton, Dome
13/12 – Cardiff, St David’s Hall
14/12 – Bristol, Colston Hall

THE DARKNESS DOCUMENTARY… COMING 2018

The full breadth of The Darkness’ legendary rise to the top, spectacular slide to the bottom and steady climb back up the greasy pole of rock’n’roll is soon to be laid bare in glorious detail. Currently in production is a philosophical, darkly humorous and deeply personal documentary of The Darkness’ comeback, due for release in 2018.

The documentary is being created by world-renowned photographer and filmmaker Simon Emmett (Jay Z, Matt Damon, Helen Mirren). He has recorded over 250 hours of footage to date, capturing the past, present, hopes, dreams and inner mental turmoil of The Darkness. Until July 31st 2017 the film is garnering funding through Indiegogo, with a variety of exclusive pre-order items – https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-darkness-documentary-music#/

As Justin explains, “As soon as ‘Permission To Land’ was wrapped up I already knew it was going to be a mega smash. But I also knew that the second album would not be, and that we’d split up, and I knew we’d come back together and I knew the comeback would be fabulous. The fabulous element of the comeback hasn’t materialised as yet, but it’s all a work in progress. To be frank – the story of The Darkness is: years of perspiration, overnight sensation, over-saturation, temporary separation, reunion elation, career renovation, ‘Pinewood Smile’ creation!”

INITIATIVE NEWS: UK trade mission aims to boost British music In S. Korea

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A UK music industry trade mission to South Korea is set to take place from 25th September – 1st October 2017, providing an open door for music businesses to explore business opportunities in a fast growing music market. Download the application form here.

The Department for International Trade (DIT), in partnership with AIM (The Association of Independent Music) and BPI (British Phonographic Industry), is organising this music mission to S. Korea, which will take place in Seoul.

The music industry is growing in S. Korea, a country that is increasingly consuming international music and developing its association with the international music business.

The week-long mission will act as a catalyst for collaboration, exploration and expansion of the British music industry in South Korea. It will include a programme of education, networking, B2B meetings, conferences, showcases, and other music related activities.

Artists, managers, promoters, record labels, digital distribution companies, festival bookers/directors/organisers and promoters, covering all genres of music are being invited to participate and the mission organisers will be tailoring certain aspects of the program to suit all delegates

DIT’s “Exporting is GREAT” campaign was launched in 2011 to “get the world thinking and feeling differently about Britain, repositioning us as a vibrant, inspiring and innovative nation to visit and do business with”.

This is a “Music is GREAT” S.Korea Music Mission with industry partners, AIM and BPI.

Mission registration is just £100 + vat per delegate and interested parties should note that some funding may be available through DIT, details of which can be obtained through Phil.Patterson@trade.gsi.gov.uk

Some of the activities planned in Seoul include:

MU:CON 2017 – www.mucon.kr
ZANDARI FESTIVAL – www.zfesta.com/en/

AIM Membership and International Manager, Emmy Buckingham, said:

“AIM is excited to take part in introducing a music trade mission to South Korea, along with our British Music partners. Timed to take place alongside MU:CON and Zanderi, the mission offers an unrivaled opportunity for independent labels to demystify the market, build relationships and develop business. With the improved copyright landscape and increasing recorded rights revenues within South Korea, this is the prime time for this mission.”

BPI Director of Independent Membership and International, Chris Tams, said:

“The BPI and its partners organise a number of international trade missions to key music markets each year by way of developing export opportunities for their members and to promote British music around the world. We’ve not been to South Korea before, but with a burgeoning aspirational population that clearly has a love of all things British, improving respect for copyright and authentic quality products, and the UK needing to forge new international trading relationships, the timing of this inaugural visit couldn’t be better. Music has become Britain’s global calling card and we fully intend to use it in this exciting emerging market which has the potential to transform global music sales.”

TOUR & ALBUM NEWS: The Big Moon announce Autumn tour, album nominated for Mercury Prize

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It’s been a hectic eighteen months for London’s The Big Moon. Mapped out largely on the road across the US, Europe, and on repeat tours of the UK, the four-piece have firmly cemented their status as one of Britain’s best new bands, culminating in the release of one of the albums of the year so far, and a string of sold out shows including London’s Village Underground.

Following the release of their critically acclaimed debut, the band have announce a new run of 20 dates stretching across the UK throughout September/October. See below for dates and ticket links.

‘Love In The 4th Dimension’ nominated for Mercury Prize

The band have announced that ‘Love In The 4th Dimension’ has been nominated for a Mercury Prize.

Speaking of their nomination, the band said: “We can’t believe it! We threw everything into this record and made something we feel incredibly proud of. We are really so so honoured to be nominated alongside so many amazing musicians.”

Purchase Love In The 4th Dimension here: http://po.st/TBMLVPEC

The Big Moon UK 2017 Tour Dates

17th – 20th August – Green Man Festival
25th – 27th August – Reading Festival
25th – 27th August – Leeds Festival
23rd September – Central Library, Coventry
24th September – Portland Arms, Cambridge
25th September – Plug, Sheffield
27th September – The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge
28th September – Westgarth Social Club, Middlesbrough
29th September – The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen
30th September – Tenement Trail Festival, Glasgow
2nd October – LiVe, Preston
3rd October – Fruit, Hull
6th October – Magnet, Liverpool
7th October – Sound Control, Neighbourhood Festival, Manchester
9th October – The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent
10th October – The Boiler Room, Guilford
11th October – Ramsgate Music Hall, Ramsgate
13th October – Sound and Vision Festival, Norwich
14th October – The Cookie, Leicester
15th October – Moles, Bath
17th October – The Loft, Southampton
18th October – The Bullingdon, Oxford
20th October – KOKO, London

Sign up for pre-sale tickets now at https://TheBigMoon.lnk.to/TSU
General sale tickets available on Friday via: https://TheBigMoon.lnk.to/DICE

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www.soundcloud.com/commoonicate

ALBUM & TOUR NEWS: New Kingston announce September/October dates, ‘A Kingston Story: Come From Far’ released August 2017

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New Kingston, the Brooklyn-based progressive reggae group, have confirmed details of their upcoming album ‘A Kingston Story: Come From Far’, due out August 25th, on maverick indie imprint Easy Star Records.

This marks the band’s fourth studio album and follows their 2015 breakthrough release ‘Kingston City’ (on Easy Star). The album is available for pre-order now and comes with an instant download of the first single.

The opening title track “Come From Far,” as premiered by Mass Appeal, is available for free download via the band’s website and encompasses the band’s live energy as New Kingston’s soulful vocals speak about the band’s journey – where they come from, where they’re at, and where they’re going. Guitarist/vocalist Stephen elaborates:

“Everyone has a journey they are on or one that has ended. It all starts somewhere and we are no different. We have ‘come from far’ but ‘look how far we haffi go’.”

New Kingston’s journey formally began in 2006, when three brothers – Tahir (keys/vocals), Courtney Jr. (drums/vocals), and Stephen – debuted as a band, following years of learning to play music together in their family basement. This band of brothers, under the watchful eye of their father (and bassist) Courtney Panton Sr., dubbed themselves New Kingston, to appropriately reflect the combination of their Jamaican heritage and their present lives in New York City. The fusion of these two identities, both their cultural roots and their current home, guides their musical and stylistic direction.

‘A Kingston Story: Come From Far’ takes the theme of the first single and stretches the concept across an entire record, and the result is the band’s most personal work to date.

More news on the album will be released soon by the band, including a reveal of the album cover, more songs, and details of the pre-order, as the August 25th release date approaches.

UK 2017 TOUR DATES

September

26 Concorde 2 – Brighton **
27 Forum – Tunbridge Wells **
28 Chinnerys – Southend **
29 Epic Studios – Norwich **

October

1 Fruit – Hull **
2 Plug – Sheffield **
3 Assembly – Leamington Spa **
4 The Bullingdon – Oxford **
5 Sub 89 – Reading **
8 Wedgewood Rooms – Portsmouth **
18 Club Academy – Manchester *
19 Arena House – Birmingham *
20 Electric Brixton – London *

** w/ The Skints
* w/ Collie Buddz

https://www.newkingstonmusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/NewKingston/