New Site

Hi guys,

I'm really happy to see how well this site is doing even without further promotion. But we've moved location; you can now find new posts over at www.truetimbre.com - this site is bigger and better and it would be great if you could go check it out!

Let me know what you think and give the new site a follow so you never miss a post.

Twenty One Pilots Live @ O2 Academy Oxford - 7/11/2015

This was unlike any concert I have ever been to, there was an electric energy in the air that kept everyone on edge in the best of ways. I've never danced for so long in my life, and didn't know that I was physically capable of it (and the aches and pains that followed would say that I'm really not). Every single person in that room enjoyed the show and were emotionally invested in the whole thing, as someone who'd been queuing since 11:30 finally getting into the venue was insane.

Outsiders - Against The Current

Pop-rock band, Against The Current, have just released their first single 'Outsiders' with Fueled By Ramen. As I'm sure some of you have gathered, Fueled By Ramen (alongside DCD2) is my favourite label, signing some of the best artists around and they haven't disappointed. 'Outsider' will grab your attention from beginning to end and is definitely a brilliant start to what I'm sure will be a brilliant career for this band.

Interview with The Score

Pop duo The Score shot into the limelight after ASDA used their song 'Oh My Love' in their advert. It took the #1 spot on the Spotify UK Viral Chart and the #4 spot on the iTunes UK pop charts, going on to become the second most Shazam'd song in the UK. Following the success of the single the band were signed to Republic Records and following the release of their EP they played their first UK show at The Borderline in London. Sonically similar to bands like OneRepublic, American Authors and The Script, their EP showcases their feel-good, get up and dance vibe. The duo is made up of Eddie Anthony, vocals and guitar, and Edan Dover, keys and production, I was lucky enough to organise an interview with them before the show and was struck by how down-to-earth they are.

Victorious - Panic! At The Disco

The band, Panic! At The Disco, recently celebrated 10 years since the release of their debut album 'A Fever You Can't Sweat Out', despite the fact they weren't even out of college they gave us an album that helped shape the sound of pop-punk today. 10 years later, after members leaving and sounds evolving, Panic! are still making brilliant music. They released a third song from the yet-to-be-released fifth album; their new single 'Victorious'.

Interview with Head Injuries

This pop-punk band from Colorado started in October 2011, releasing their "Boogie Nights EP". Since then they've been touring the US and releasing music whenever possible. Their latest album 'Bail' is a throwback to the classic pop-punk sound, bringing to mind artists like Blink-182, Green Day and New Found Glory. I stumbled across their music after they were featured as one of four unsigned bands to hear in Alternative Press and I loved them from the first few seconds of the first song I heard. They took time out of their busy tour schedule to answer some questions.

Interview with A Story Told

Five piece pop-rock group A Story Told, from Charleston, West Virginia, have been taking their local area by storm; even playing the well-known Vans Warped Tour in Pittsburgh. Their 'Stay With Me' cover was featured in a post by Pop Buzz which is how I discovered this amazing band. They were kind enough to answer some of my questions about how they started, what's coming up next and who influences their sound.

 

That's The Spirit - Bring Me The Horizon

Bring Me The Horizon show us a new side with their fifth album 'That's The Spirit', their usual metalcore sound takes the backseat and the album is driven by a more alternative-pop sound. The five-piece rock band formed back in 2003 and since have changed their sound with nearly every album. There's such a range of sounds on the album, yet still staying within the broad genre of rock, and I absolutely love it. I've never been much of a fan of Bring Me The Horizon but this album has changed that.

Vol 1 - Coates

'Vol. 1' is the debut EP from rising star Oliver Coates, known best as Coates, this West London Troubadour shows off his impressive writing and certainly marks himself as one to watch with this EP. Heavily influenced by Brit-pop the retro sound contrasts perfectly with the thought-provoking and relatable lyrics.

Death Of A Bachelor - Panic! At The Disco

After the release of their single Hallelujah earlier in the year, it's safe to say that people were excited to see what else the band would come up with. With lead singer Brendon Urie saying an album is on the way and is similar to their first album A Fever You Can't Sweat Out, well, I am definitely excited. The single was unveiled exclusively on Beats1 by Pete Wentz (who was filling in for Zane Low) and after hearing the jazzy, pop sound of 'Death Of A Bachelor' I'm even more excited than before.

BADLANDS - Halsey

American singer/songwriter Halsey has made quite the impact since the release of her EP 'Room 93' in 2014. She toured with The Kooks in 2014 and supported Imagine Dragons on their recent Smoke and Mirrors tour. Her debut album 'Badlands' did not disappoint on its worldwide release late August.

Roots - Imagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons shot to fame after the release of 'Radioactive' from their debut album Night Visions, the album itself was just as highly talked about. Their second album did not disappoint, and I think I speak for everyone when I say we weren't expecting more. On social media the band were collecting photo's of people's roots under the hashtag #MYROOTS, their own profile pictures were turned black and for a while we were all a little confused and pretty excited. And out of nowhere, they released a single - Roots.

Down South - Jeremy Loops ft Motheo Moleko

South African musician Jeremy Loops combines classic folk with beats you'd find in the top charts, this modern folk artist has already made waves in South Africa and I'm honestly surprised he hasn't over here in the UK. He has a beautiful voice, combined with catchy and moving melodies, you'll find yourself falling in love with his music. Although we aren't able to download the album at the moment in the UK (although according to Facebook, Jeremy is looking at a November release) we can listen to 'Down South' on repeat, and I am perfectly fine with that.

Drag Me Down - One Direction

One Direction hold the hearts of thousands of fans, spanning all ages, many of whom have followed them since the band formed on the talent show X Factor. Since the departure of Zayn earlier in the year I think we were all interested to see how the band would continue, and they seem to be taking this chance to change their sound.

R.I.P 2 My Youth - The Neighbourhood

The Neighbourhood's debut album 'I Love You' blew me away, I fell in love after hearing 'Afraid' and 'Sweater Weather'. Since then I've been anxiously waiting for new music, and after a week of teasing new music we finally have something - 'R.I.P 2 My Youth'. It's the lead single from their second album 'Wiped Out!' and is yet another brilliant song from a brilliant band.

Interview with Kalimur

4-piece rock band Kalimur reached out to me on Twitter asking me to listen to one of their songs and I couldn’t be happier about the whole situation. A song review soon turned into a Skype call with singer Brett Steinberg and bassist Tyler Berkich, who were both down-to-earth, lovely people. If one thing was clear, it was their passion for music.

Murder - Colton Avery

As you know, I'm a massive fan of Colton Avery who has just released his most recent song - Murder. And it does not disappoint in any way. After touring with The Script fans were anxiously awaiting the music they'd heard on stage, then came the disappearance of all Colton's old music from iTunes and Spotify which had everyone excited for what must be coming soon. When I saw this was out there, I honestly nearly fell off my chair in a rush to listen to this song.

Blurryface - Twenty One Pilots

Although this album may not be a brand new release, I couldn't not write a review. For some strange reason I have only just discovered the brilliance of Twenty One Pilots, I'm just glad I finally have because they really are amazing. Quirky and individual, their sound stands out from others and really can't be labelled. There isn't anyone, as far as I know, making music like this. I feel it's my duty to make sure as many people as possible listen to their music, it's something you can't miss out on.

Thieves Of The Night - Kalimur

Although fairly unknown, American rock band Kalimur could make it big. I'll admit I knew nothing about these guys before a message on twitter asking what I thought of 'Thieves Of The Night' which started it all.

Be There - Seafret

I think I've made it pretty clear in past reviews that I love Seafret and that hasn't changed. The acoustic duo seem to fit into a gap in the market that I never knew existed - but I wouldn't want it any other way.

Wings - Birdy

Despite being originally released in 2013 as the first single from the album 'Fire Within', this song has been climbing the UK charts recently. And rightly so. It's a genuinely beautiful song; as all Birdy songs tend to be.

Honeymoon - Lana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey is an American singer, songwriter and actress. Her unique sound has won fans over in the past with singles like 'Video Games' and 'Summertime Sadness'. Musically she draws influence from the greats of every genre of music, which can be heard in her songs. I think this is especially true of Amy Winehouse, although the two are stylistically very different there is a lot of similarities bringing them together. Del Rey has released the title track of her new album 'Honeymoon'.

Young Blood - Saint Raymond

'Young Blood' is the debut album from Saint Raymond, aka Callum Burrows from Nottingham. There are quite a few brilliant artists coming from Nottingham right now (Amber Run instantly spring to mind) and Saint Raymond is no different; I have fallen in love. The album has such a brilliant sound that I can't really place, but I can say it's fabulous.

Hallelujah - Panic! At The Disco

I stumbled across Panic! At The Disco early this year and honestly can't believe I hadn't listened to them before. Since then I've listened to all their albums and fallen in love with their individual style and clever lyrics.

'Hallelujah' does not disappoint, it stays true to the more electronic sound of their previous album 'Too Weird To Live, Too Rare To Die!' and is the first single from their fifth studio album. I really love this song, it's a mix of gospel and electric that I feel Brendon Urie executes perfectly. The first 20 seconds had me thinking of 'A Fever You Can't Sweat Out' and put a smile on my face, before descending into the catchy gospel-esque song with a beat you just can't shake.

Interview with Colton Avery

24 year-old Colton Avery has been touring with The Script on their 'No Sound Without Silence' tour where he has been exposed to thousands of fans and played to amazing crowds in stadiums like Croke Park. Despite all this, he is still the humblest and nicest guy I've spoken to. I almost wanted to dislike him, because it's unfair that one person is so perfect; insanely talented, kind and charismatic and good looking too. Not fair. But he is. It was my first interview and Colton really helped make it go smoothly.

Atlantis - Seafret

You might remember seeing my review of Seafret's 'Oceans' a few months ago (if not go check it out now!) where I said to keep your eyes peeled, well here's their new song 'Atlantis'. And like I said last time - It's brilliant.

Beneath The Skin - Of Monsters And Men

The five-piece band from Iceland have such a brilliant sound, this second album really builds on their debut without straying from their signature sound. The way their voices blend together is beautiful and they really use this to advantage.

Singing For Strangers - Hudson Taylor

I really love this duo. Two brothers from Ireland, formerly known as Harry and Alfie and now known as 'Hudson Taylor'. I've loved watching these two grow from their little YouTube videos and busking to seeing where they are today with such a well-put together album. It's brilliant and really captures their whole vibe.

Chaos and the Calm - James Bay

‘Chaos and the Calm’ is the debut album from James Bay who shot to fame after releasing his single ‘Hold Back The River’ and winning Critics’ Choice at the BRIT awards in 2015 despite not having an album out at this time. The album was recorded in Nashville with the help of the three-time Grammy winning producer Jacquire King and shot straight to number 1 in the UK upon its release.

Go Big Or Go Home - American Authors

'Go Big Or Go Home' is the next single released by American rock band American Authors. They've said recently in interviews they don't feel pressured by the success of their debut album, particularly their hit single 'Best Day Of My Life'. After listening to this song you can understand why; looks like writing amazing songs is their forte.

Weatherman - Colton Avery

I am in love with Colton Avery. No lie. Not only is he a super talented singer, but a really lovely guy too. Always willing to reply to direct messages and seems nothing more than thankful for the support he's getting. He's currently touring with The Script and thankfully being introduced to Script fans around the world which is only helping to boost his fame and put smiles on our faces. The only thing that really sucks - no new music.

Hozier Live @ The Roundhouse - 1/06/2015

This was possibly the best concert I've ever been to. It was flawlessly beautiful and so effortlessly perfect, I don't think it's possible for anyone to have left being disappointed. They somehow managed to replicate the amazing sound of the album in front of the crowd yet providing a different energy. To add to all this the venue was brilliant and the staff were absolutely lovely! The Roundhouse is probably my favourite venue; the staff are always lovely, the building itself is extraordinary and the quality of the concert (sound and visually) is always perfect, no matter where you sit/stand.

5AM - Amber Run

The album ‘5 AM’ is the debut album of Nottingham based band 'Amber Run', and in no way disappoints. Although fairly unknown their song ‘I Found’ brought people in with its beautiful melody and lyrics, for those who are aware of their music already, the album is just as brilliant.

This Summer's Gonna Hurt Like A Motherf***er - Maroon 5

I'll admit, when I fist saw the title of their next single I was a little sceptical about where Maroon 5 were going. Since their first alum 'Songs About Jane' their sound has developed and changed massively, both winning and losing them fans.

Oh What A Life - American Authors

What's not to love? You have a group of attractive and talented guys making brilliant music. This album has a real feel-good vibe, I find it nearly impossible not to dance, sing along and smile. The band really come into their own on this debut album, there's definitely a distinct sound but not so defined that there is no room for change in the future.

Oceans - Seafret

I don't really remember how I stumbled across this band, but I am glad I did. The acoustic duo work together beautifully to make outstanding music. Although they haven't yet got an album out, they do have a couple of EP's on iTunes and elsewhere.
'Oceans' has this amazing story to it, I find myself getting lost in the lyrics and just the amazing sound. It's got a very chilled sound to it, if I'm ever feeling tense this song helps me rewind. A brilliant song to have on in the background, or to sing along to. What ever floats your boat. The song was inspired by the duos move to London and being apart from their loved ones, although this may not be the interpretation of the listener it is a theme that shines throughout the song.

"I want you and I always will, I wish I was worth but I know what you deserve. You know I'd rather drown than to go on without you, but you're pulling me down."

I don't know about you guys, but the lyrics are just so beautiful and they really draw you in, the verse above really captures the theme of the song and demonstrates the carefully chosen lyrics that work perfectly to ensnare the listener. The chilled acoustic nature making the lyrics more prominent, but also fitting with the whole mood of the song.
These guys are going to be huge, there is something pure and raw in their music that just captivates the listener. It has you feeling those emotions right along with them, which is something not a lot of artists can achieve no matter how hard they try. I definitely recommend buying their music and keeping your eyes peeled for more music (and shows) from Seafret because it will certainly be worth your time.
Speaking of worth your time, check out the video for 'Oceans' below!

 

 

Play It Again - Luke Bryan

I never considered myself a fan of country, but I'll confess recently I've found myself listening to a lot of it. 'Play It Again' is a brilliant song, the first time I heard it there was a smile on my face and by the end of the song I was singing along. In my opinion you can really connect with it, most people have a song that whenever it comes on you just want to hear it one more time and this song captures that, with the added romanticism.
It topped the Country Charts, which isn't really a surprise it being a Luke Bryan single and all. I wish it had done better elsewhere, because it really is an amazing song. It peaked at #14 on Billboard Hot 100, which is pretty good.
The song is beautiful and Luke Bryan's delivery completes it. I won't accept anything else. I'd happily listen to this song over and over again, and I think this is the song that really sparked my interest in country. It showed me that country music isn't all that different from pop sometimes, in fact I think that country music is more authentic. And in some cases more likeable. Especially with the way some pop songs are going.
So, go buy the single or the album (Crash My Party) and tell your friends because I think this is a song people just need to hear. Check it out below.

 

Just an extra little point, have you ever seen teeth that white?

 

 



Native - OneRepublic

'Native' is the third studio album from OneRepublic and it does not disappoint. For fans that have followed the band since the beginning, each album is a progression and 'Native' is no different. With that collection of talent it really is a beautiful thing.
Each song stands out, there is not a single thing I dislike about the album. The whole thing seems to say 'carpe diem', if I was to sum up the message from the album this would be what stands out. But more importantly, each song, although with a special meaning to the members who wrote it, is completely adaptable to the listener and their own thoughts and experiences.
Ryan Tedder, the lead singer of OneRepublic and the undercover King of Pop behind countless number ones, has pulled it out of the bag with the help of the other members of the band (Brent, Zach, Eddie and Drew). Not only are the melodies and lyrics beautiful, but his voice is like an angel. I honestly feel like OneRepublic is God's gift to man, the whole lot of them are incredibly talented and bring an individual and loved sound to the market.
One of my favourite features of the album has to be the cello, brought in by Brent Kutzle and performed flawlessly throughout; it is an amazing touch. Personally, without Brent and his cello, I don't think OneRepublic would be the same.
This album really showcases the band's talent, from feel good songs like 'I Lived' and 'Counting Stars' to songs that make your insides melt like 'Something's Gotta Give' and 'Au Revoir'. Each song is perfect in it's own way and I honestly couldn't choose a favourite. Like I said, Ryan Tedder's voice blows me away, some times I seriously doubt that a noise so pure could be someone's voice. Well, after seeing them live twice I can say that it does. (I will make at least one post on that at a later date!) The song's are instantly recognisable, 'Counting Stars' being a great example of this, you can't help singing along and dancing, no matter how bad your dancing is.
Definitely buy this album if you haven't already because it will knock your socks off. It is a must hear album and if you are a fan, you need to see these guys live; there is NOTHING like it. If you are one of the lucky few who live in one of the places where OneRepublic are visiting on their extended Native Tour, get out and buy tickets. If not, keep your eyes peeled because they are currently working on album no. 4 and if the rumours are to be believed then that should be arriving around November this year.

 

Fun Fact : Each animal represents one of the band members :D Think you can guess who is what?

Smoke and Mirrors - Imagine Dragons

I consider myself a massive Imagine Dragons fan, ever since I first heard 'Radioactive'. But when I heard the teaser for the 'Smoke and Mirrors' album (after pre-ordering the deluxe deluxe edition) I'll admit I was a little disappointed, I didn't get the sound and I thought it was too different from 'Night Visions'.
I haven't been more wrong. It's blown me away, I found myself loving every song, if I had to choose a least favourite it would actually be 'I Bet My Life', one that I had liked from the very beginning, before even ordering the album, because the other songs blow it out of the water. In my opinion 'I'm So Sorry' and 'Friction' are to of the most engaging tracks, they make me want to get up and go for a run. Then you have songs like 'Dream' and 'Release' which are so beautiful and you really get lost in the lyrics (which I may go into in another post). But just to funk it up, you have the quirky sound of 'Hopeless Opus' and 'Polaroid' which are completely unexpected, though still amazing.
This whole album reflects a massive range in sound, yet somehow manages to keep a consistency that makes it all fit together beautifully. And despite the fact that many people (like my mother) complained 'Night Visions' was too unlike 'Radioactive', I personally think that 'Smoke and Mirrors' brings a little of that magic present in 'Radioactive' into every song. My 8 year old sister has listened the whole way through once and on the second go round she is already singing along to every song and asking for it to get turned up. I count that as a win. An 8 year old, a 16 year old and a 43 year old all in love with the same album.
So, just to summarise; BUY THE ALBUM! You definitely won't regret it, the progression from 'Night Visions' and within the album itself is clear and certainly a step upwards. I can't wait to see what the guys from Imagine Dragons have planned for the next album.
More importantly, the band is soon to be on tour for this album. For those in the UK, this is in November and if, like me, you are desperate to go, you should definitely buy those tickets now because they are selling fast!

 

And in case you didn't know what the fabulous quartet look like, feast your eyes below!

I Found - Amber Run

If you haven't heard Amber Run yet then you just haven't lived. A beautiful group of people making beautiful music. Thank you Spotify for randomly playing them, because a day hasn't gone since when I haven't listened to at least one of their songs.