Hawthorne Heights - Golden Parachutes Video

Check out Hawthorne Heights latest video for Golden Parachutes off their massive Zero album which we reviewed here http://plymouthrockscene.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/hawthorne-heights-zero-review.html

AshesToAngels - With Tape and Needles Review

 

AshesToAngels are a 4 piece synthy punk band hailing from Bristol, led by the effervescent Crilly. This is their second, self-released full length album, cryptically titled "With Tape and Needles" (9.5). The album is produced by William Frances under his solo name William Control.

The album kicks off with the "Highest Choir" which serves as a thirty eight second introduction to the album, with an electronics backdrop Nine Inch Nails would be proud of, gang vocals and Crilly singing "Ashes to Angels".

Dolls Dolls Dolls has a thudding beat, pounding bass and call & response chorus of "We are , We are" which is custom made for audience participation at gigs.

The unmistakeable piano introduction of “Dorian” gives way to Falco's frantic riffing signalling the beginning of catchiest of tunes penned by AshesToAngels. Crilly vocals reminiscent of Davey Havok from AFI. The chorus of "Goodbye Dorian, The Gray sky mourning, You’ll be free" is sure to be lodged in your head for days.

The whole album slows down for “Lumi” with Crilly plaintive singing to a more relaxed soundscape than the high octane initial songs.

“Wintervention” is a bit of theme tune for AshesToAngels, which begins with Crilly singing in front of an electronic intro before the band burst in to life. Crilly then alternates between chanting, singing and screaming along, with an intense mixtures of crunchy guitars, thudding bass/ drums and synths.

Another live favourite is “Elsinore”, with its spikey down picked riffs, machine gun drums and The Cure inspired vocals. The album never outstays its welcome and through the 9 tracks mixes tempos, grooves to keep the listener interested and wanting more. The song has a very catchy eletronic outro, showing the bands clever programming skills.

The album ends on the chugging “Ghost Frequency” with Crilly sounding like early days, Brian Molko fronting a goth punk band. Again the band combines  call and response vocals with half sung / half screamed vocals.

This is a must for anyone who likes Fearless Vampire Killers or AFI. AshesToAngels have managed to create an album that captures a lot of the live magic that makes their live shows unforgettable. To quote the band themselves “we put ourselves into every note”.

Ashes to Angels will be performing at the White Rabbit, Plymouth on Saturday 5th October 2013 for tickets visit http://ashestoangels.bigcartel.com/product/wintervention-tour-september-20th-29th-tickets-vip-passes

Harry Radford w/ support from Hill Valley High and Propeller 10th September 2013 The Cavern, Exeter

The night kicked off with South West based band Propeller(7.5) who only formed in April 2013. If these guys were nervous, it did not show, they owned the stage playing to high standard with a lot of passion. The band's sound is indie with a harder edge. They played mainly original compositions including "Mister, Mister", "Heartbreaker" and "HGD".  They also played an impressive cover of the Arctic Monkeys track "Fake Tales of San Francisco". Their set ended on their catchiest song to date "Shine a Light" which they should record as a single immediately. They are a young enthusiastic band, who were most effective at their heaviest. This is definitely a band to catch live. You can see them next at The White Rabbit, Plymouth on Saturday 14th September performing as Biffy Clyro for the "Stars In Their Eyes".

Up next was Hill Valley High (8) who played with huge amounts of enthusiasm despite a couple of their members being down with illness.  Their brand of catchy punk rock was just what the evening needed to get the crowd ready for the main act. If anyone could bottle Phil Marsh’s swagger then they would be a millionaire. They played mainly songs off their new self-titled 6 song Mini Album including "Call The Shots", "All Fall Down" and “Sweet Talking Melody". The band were not only a very tight unit but friendly and approachable offering hugs at one point. The highlight of their set was "We Learn" with its catchy chorus and crunchy guitars which is surely a hit single in the making. Their set ended on the "Move Closer" with its chanted chorus and many new converts to the Hill Valley High.

Harry Radford (9) strolled on to the stage with his carefully assembled touring band, this was definitely his night. From the very first song "Cherry Lips" it was clear that Harry's songs benefit from the extra fire power of two live guitarists and a bassist. Next up was "Black and Blue" with its catchy lyrics of "twenty two still black and blue from all the times I thought of you". In addition to the live instruments each song was seamlessly accompanied by an electronic backing track. The first of two new songs was "I Need a Fix" had a pumped up dance vibe and audience participation.

The whole night slowed down for sing-along favourite "Gallery" with spot on haunting vocals from Harry; definitely a lighters in the air moment.

"Hide and Speak" is awesome on record but with guest vocal from Hill Valley High, lead singer Phil Marsh it took a new more intense form. Harry beforehand stated that this was the music he wanted to make, it is the music we want to hear.

The set closed with an amped up version of "Bite the Bullet" which had the whole audience moving and singing the chorus. Hopefully we will see a full album from Harry Radford incorporating the spirit and guitars of his live performance. Everyone left the Cavern excited but satisfied.

Harry Radford - Pressure Makes Diamonds EP Review

 Harry Radford - Pressure Makes Diamonds (8)

Harry Radford is one sixth of the Post Hardcore band Yashin, he provides the clean vocal counterpoint to Kevin Miles unclean vocals. This is his first solo EP.

The album kicks off with “Black and Blue” and the first thing that is noticeable is that there is very little in the way of guitars, this is a more synth and beat affair. “Cherry Lips” adds a more pronounced synth riff and some chugging guitars into the dense mix. The songs are catchy upbeat tunes to get up and dance to. Harry Radford’s vocals are stand out showing he can hold a whole track together.

The whole thing slows down for “Gallery” a slinky piano led ballad with Harry plaintively singing against a backdrop of strings. The EP hits it high point with the insanely catchy “Bite the Bullet” which is a well-crafted modern rock single. The songs start off with Harry singing to a synth beat before exploding with guitars and a chorus that will get lodged in your head for days.  

The tempo is upped on “Hide and Speak” which mixes up element from the previous songs and delivers much more. This is not a pop album but a perfect slice of synthy alt-rock. Hopefully live Harry will introduce a bit more crunch in the way of heavier guitars.

 

Harry Radford is currently touring the UK and appearing at The Cavern, Exeter tonight!!

White Rabbit Listings, Plymouth

30th August 2013  Tall Ships £10.00

14th September 2013  Stiff Bizkit  £5.00

28th September 2013 Zico Chain : £7.00

Check out our preview for what to expect from Zico Chain HERE

5th October 2013t Ashestoangels : £6.00

Check out our review when AshestoAngels supported Fearless Vampire Killers HERE

You can purchase AshesToAngels Tickets HERE

11th October 2013 Back To The System, Mis***s, Elithia  : £5.00

14th October 2013 Fleshgod Apocalypse, Hate : £12.50

25th October 2013 Brother & Bones  £7.00

15th November 2013 TRC  £7.00

22nd November 2013 Hacktivist, The Algorithm  £8.00

24th November 2013 Mallory Knox, Blitz Kids, Crooks Tickets on sale Friday 9am


PRICES MAY VARY IN DIFFERENT RETAILERS AND DO NOT INCLUDE BOOKING FEES

Heroes Night (Say It Like It Is, Haunt The Woods, Crowley's Tears, LGM One) Review at Level 2, Plymouth 24th August 2013

Say It Like It Is (7.5)

The night started proper with Say it Like It Is who are a all female four piece from Plymouth who had dressed up in the Heroes theme of the night. They played mainly covers including "Song 2" - Blur, "Hate Say I Told You So" - The Hives, "Buck Rogers" - Feeder and "Steady As She Goes" - The Raconteurs. Their set was playful, skilfully played and the band traded good banter with the crowd.

They played an original composition "Decisions" a bluesy number which was performed with seductive swagger. The set was rounded off by a humorous amped up cover of "Milkshake" by Kelis. Overall a great start to the night.

Haunt The Woods(6.5)

Haunt The Woods is fronted by Jonathan Stafford a very talented vocalist and rhythm guitar player who was accompanied by flutist and electric guitarist. His vocals were very reminiscent of Damien Rice mixed with Neil Young, he sang song of love lost and found. The highlight of his set was an original song called "Safe and Sound". The band could do with a bit more low end in the form of a bassist. If you are looking for a laid back evening go see them.

Crowley's Tears (8)

We last saw Crowley's Tears on the 16th May 2013 at the White Rabbit. The band is formed of powerhouse Averil Garnett on Drums, Oli Bird on Bass, Adrian Carter on Guitar and Ramon Welsh on Vocals and Rhythm Guitar. The band are a tightly knit unit which played very professionally. Their sound is part grunge, part metal and part indie. Adrian played with mesmerising dexterity and was in the zone for the whole performance, he had an effects pedal for every occasions which he seamless changed between. Adding the low end thump Oli played amazing bass lines which were perfectly in time with Averil.

Highlights of their set was the compelling "Number 5" and the funky "Wonder" which had a funky riff the Red Hot Chili Peppers would be proud of. Ramon was on top form today showing amazing vocal range which was noticeable on the intense "Save Me" with half screamed, half sung vocals ending a great set. Would recommend to anyone .

LGM One (8)

This was LGM One's night, literally the night was organised by their bassist Geoff Heap who did a great job of finding talented bands to join them this evening. Slightly delayed when they hit the stage playing their brand of synth punk with such vigour that everyone was captivated. Dave Wells is their lead singer who splits himself between vocals, guitar and keyboard, he puts his all in to which ever instrument he is playing.

Their sound is driven by drummer Darrel Worral and the already mentioned Geoff on Bass. Highlights of their set were the cryptically titled "Destroying Onions" with its pounding drum beat,  the catchy "System" with its very cool laid back groove, immense guitar work and the epic "Inferno". Although he was in the shadows tonight guitarist Jon Barrabell had lightening quick hands and riffs which gelled the band together. They played a brand new song called "Vampires" which was possibly inspired by Ashes To Angels/ Fearless Vampire Killers.

Completely out the left field they played a cracking cover of "Shipping Up To Boston" with gang vocals, and cool keyboard riff. The night was rounded off with their anthem "Modern Superhero". This is definitively a band worth seeing if they come to a venue near you. 

Heroes and Villains Weekend August 24/25 Live @ Level 2 (upstairs Roundabout)

Live @ Level 2 are putting on an epic two days of live music themed 'Heroes and Villains' so dust down your Spiderman costume and prepare for some good live music.

This is clearly an event not to be missed with so many local bands playing including LGM One headlining Saturday and Walking with Spiders headlining Sunday. 

Check out the event facebook page here

The provisional line up is :-

Saturday (heroes):
 19.00: Treefolk
 20.00: Say it like it is
 21.00: The Jonathan Stafford Band
 22.00: Crowleys Tears
 23.00: LGM One

Sunday (villains):
 18.00: Nathaniel Truscott
 19.00: Lane End
 20.00: Disposable Lovers
 21.00: A New Hope
 22.00: OCCULUS
 23.00: Walking With Spiders

Plymouth Rock Scene caught LGM One supporting FVK, check out the review here

A helpful map showing where the event will be held, courtesy of Google

Details from their website :-

"August Bank Holiday and not going to Reading? Come along to Level 2 (top floor of The Roundabout) which will be hosting a whole weekend of bands which can be enjoyed no matter the weather! There will be food and drink deals throughout the weekend and it's Heroes and Villains themed which means that if you dress up you will get even cheaper entrance!

On each night there will be prizes for best dressed fronted by Final Frontier:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Final-Frontier/113823418301?fref=ts

For cheap fancy dress go to Footloose, previously known as Jama Uneek and say that you are attending this event to get a discount! Also make sure to keep your receipt as you will also be given cheaper entrance to the event!
 https://www.facebook.com/pages/Footloose-n-Fancy-Dress/307333459395337?fref=ts "

Fearless Vampire Killers, LostAlone , Ashes To Angels, LGM One 9th August 2013, White Rabbit Plymouth

LGM One

First on stage were LGM One (7) a self-styled synth punk rock band who were enthusiastic. They were enjoyable to watch and the guitarists played with a skill and dexterity. What separated them from other punk bands is that they were able to get in a groove and explore it. Hopefully they will play some more Plymouth shows.

Ashes To Angels

Next to hit the stage was Ashes to Angels(8) who were certainly making the most of their support band slot playing the crowd favourites, "Hanging Tree", "Elsinore" and "Ugly Club". Ashes To Angels play a heady mix of punk rock, synths and passion. They now feel at home at the White Rabbit and it is certainly their time to shine. The highlights of the night were the flawless versions of "Wintervention" and "Dorian" which were sublime. Crilly was his usual self, bouncing round the stage hanging off fixtures, jumping in to the crowd to much delight of all involved. Special mention goes to Falkor for his amazing guitar playing and showmanship skills. Although this was always Crilly's show with charm and charisma. If you hear Ashes to Angels on record they are 10 times heavier live which is very good. They were so good the crowd did not want them to stop playing,

Ashes To Angels are playing the White Rabbit on Saturday 5th October 2013. Get your tickets here

LostAlone

Next up was Steven Battelle and his powerhouse Lost Alone (8), a band that had a 5 K live review in Kerrang and we can see why. Hailing from Derbyshire, the band play a mix of meaty punk rock with metal riffs which played any louder could topple houses. Although only a three piece, this worked to their advantage with the intricate riffs given space to breathe and be enjoyed. They played mainly songs from their album I'm a UFO in this City including "Vesuvius" and the unbelievably good "Creatures". They also played some new material which shows that another blistering record is coming are way. If this band come to a town near you, go see them.

Fearless Vampire Killers

When Fearless Vampire Killer(9) hit the stage the crowd was hungry for more and that is what FVK delivered. Giving the crowd singalong choruses, riffs, showmanship and humour. They burst straight in to a song off their new EP called "The Pilot: P-Train" or the Motherfucking P Train it should be rechristened. FVK have two massive talents in both Kier and Laurence sharing lead and backing vocal duties. The band play theatrically themed alternative rock in a similar vein to My Chemical Romance with a harder edge. The band played crowd favourites “Necromania”, “At War With The Thirst” and “Bow Ties on Dead Guys” all off their Militia of the Lost Album. 

The highlight of the night goes to "Could We Burn, Darling?" which blew the roof off the White Rabbit. Special mention goes to the sublime bassist, Drew, who provided excellent backing vocals to the songs and amazing bass playing. The set ended with everyone of stage playing a cover of Billy Joel's "I'm Still Standing". Everyone went home with smiles on their faces.