Manchester-based singer/songwriter Liam McClair is a stunning new talent to watch out for in 2014. Originally hailing from Cheshire, the twenty-two year old locks listeners in with an injection of smouldering vocals into his thoughtfully crafted tunes. Previously McClair has featured on BBC Introducing Merseyside and has played Liverpool Sound City.

Latest EP 'How' is a combination of stripped-back numbers which frame his vocals whilst a no frills approach is employed. Opening number 'Roam The Globe' has the beginnings of a brilliant ballad fused with heart-swelling melodies and swarming emotions of an authentic nature.

Title-track 'How' wields dizzying melodies with sleek hooks, dispatching a track that could easily soundtrack sun-faded setting. McClair is a haven for all you minimalistic darlings out there and with streaks of folk-rock and strong, sensual lyrical quality; McClair consistently packs a rucksack of emotion into everything he does.

The delivery on 'Somewhere Before' and 'Rough Waters' are equally as strong and at times it appears he could give the likes of Ben Howard and James Blake a run for their money. If you like music that displays a moody intensity then give Liam McClair a listen and you will not be disappointed. Obey your ears.

Words Lauren Wade

https://www.facebook.com/liammcclairmusic

https://twitter.com/liammcclair

https://www.soundcloud.com/liammcclair

https://www.youtube.com/McClair7

Like Rock Revolver on Facebook and follow us on Twitter



Read More »

Scotland have produced a plethora of musical delights in recent years, and Edinburgh based band Shooting Stansfield are amongst those Scottish wonders.

After penning three EPs, charting their youth, the indie folk four piece are back with infectious intensity on their brand new EP We Know Not What We Do.
 

Thundering into view with Blue Turns Black, Stewart Douglas' vocals remind us of EP title "We know not what we do". The track bubbles with a sense of promise and eagerness to please. What works well, is that its an easy going number, allowing you to ease into the record smoothly. With nods to Ben Howard, Greater or Lesser is punctuated by unrelenting loose riffs and sing a long choruses.
 

Taking it down a notch with Sign of the Times, the simple instrumentation allows the emphasis to be altered, shining a bright light on Douglas' flawless vocals and Stephen Whipp's melodic guitar drawl. Satellites is a shimmering tune, lyrically rich and caked in cascading riffs, whilst guitars swirl on this cosmic anthemic number. Continuing their take on nu-folk, Shooting Stansfield edge towards the close of their stunning EP with fifth song There Are No Greater Truths. Utilising a more electric sound, the throbbing beat of the drums weaves the track through to its finish, whilst everything else simply slides into place.

 

Final number, State of Mind is measured sharp and infuses an explosion of spewing riffs into your mind. At just over a minute long, it's short and sweet but has a massive impact. On the surface, Shooting Stansfield sound like the epic lovechild of Biffy Clyro and Frightened Rabbit but delve a little deeper into their unwavering blast of indie folk; the band provide that much needed dose of diversity to both, the Scottish music scene and the resurgent indie folk scene. If they continue in the same direction, then they could really be on to something.

 

 

 

 https://soundcloud.com/shooting-stansfield

 https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shooting-Stansfield/195837807104

www.shootingstansfield.com

https://twitter.com/shootstansfield

 

 

Like Rock Revolver on Facebook

Read More »

Joining the crop of Liverpool's finest young musicians is Thom Morecroft - a reputable songwriter originally from Shropshire (now based in Liverpool). Often backed by the Full Moon Band, Morecroft has performed in impressive venues such as the Zanzibar and has had tracks played on BBC Radio Merseyside and BBC6. With his distinctive, velvety vocal range and authentic tunes - Thom Morecroft is bound to catch attention in all the right places.
 

Listening to his track Daisy reveals a mellow and doughy side to the twenty two year old musician. An appetising blend of catchy lyrics, punchy hooks and sleek, sophisticated riffs mould the song together, formulating a tender track that is earth-shatteringly awesome. It is definitely one of those songs you will have on repeat.

 

As well as original recordings, Morecroft has a wide selection of inventive covers, that demonstrate his ability to take on a challenge and craft a piece as his own with a particularly unique and sensual approach. Take his latest cover of Fleetwood Mac's Big Love, for example. The acoustic approach works well and adds emphasis to his plush vocal delivery; it's a credit to Morecroft how polished his music always sounds.

 

Moon Moon Shake It, the title track from his latest album is an absolute delight to listen to. In the same vein as Ben Howard, the tune is propelled by folksy riffs and spine tingling moments. The self-confessed 'scruffy' songwriter delivers with candy sweet vocals and chilled beats that contain a circling chorus and tranquilising after taste. 
 

Hailed by Paul Du Noyer (former editor of NME, Q, MOJO and Word magazines) as "Very powerful", Thom Morecroft is looking to conquer and he couldn't have chosen a better time. Morecroft provides that much needed dose of folksy rock that will ensure his success.

 

LIVE SHOWS

 

18/05/13 - Leaf Tea Shop, Liverpool

 

15/06/13 - The Zanzibar, Liverpool

 21/03/14 - Unity Theatre, Liverpool



http://thommorecroft.com

https://soundcloud.com/thom-Morecroft

https://twitter.com/thommorecroft

https://facebook.com/thommorecroftmusic

 

Like Rock Revolver on Facebook

 

 

Read More »

Ben Howard - Only Love

Ben Howard's debut album 'Every Kingdom' was one I had stuck on repeat last summer, and when Ben picked up two awards at Tuesday night's Brit Awards I decided to give the album another listen. It was just as good as I remembered and was a nice reminder of some summer memories. I'm really glad Ben won these awards as his music is incredible and he deserves the recognition. I strongly advise you to pick up a copy of his album now!

For fans of: The Lumineers, Bombay Bicycle Club, Emeli Sande, Daughter and Noah And The Whale.

 

Justin Timberlake - Mirrors

We've all got guilty pleasures; Justin Timberlake is mine. He may not be everybody's cup of tea, but I find him adorable and his music has that unforgettable 00s feel. Sure, it's cheesy but it's foolproof if you want something to lighten the mood. Give it a go - you may be surprised.

For fans of: Will Smith, Usher, Kelly Rowland, Missy Elliot, Fergie and N Sync.

 

 

Foo Fighters - Everlong

Let's face it, Foo Fighters provide the perfect soundtrack if you're angry and need an outlet for your mood. This song works wonders as it comforts you, whilst allowing you to get (whatever it is) out of your system. As always - Dave Grohl, you did good.

For fans of: Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rage Against The Machine, Biffy Clyro and Soundgarden.

 

 

Splashh - Vacation

I discovered this band last summer and liked what they were doing. Truthfully, I had half forgotten about them until last week, when they were brought to my attention as I was scrolling through my music library. I really like this track as it gives off retro vibes, whilst playing up to their modern image well. Splashh may be reasonably new to the industry, but they are definitely ones to watch.

For fans of: Palma Violets, Swim Deep, The History Of Apple Pie, S.C.U.M. and Peace.

 





 

Incubus - Drive

A friend recommended this band to me, and I really like their sound. I started off listening to some of their better known tracks, to get a taste of what they sound like, and after I became well acquainted I dug a little deeper into their back catalogue. Check this band out if you haven't already; you will not be let down.

For fans of: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day, Pearl Jam, Queens Of The Stone Age and Soundgarden.

Like Rock Revolver on Facebook

Read More »

Last night (20 February), The annual Brit Awards rolled into town. Awards were handed out, the nation were treated to a variety of performances and (host) James Corden put on an unforgettable show.

 

Man of the night Ben Howard collects the first of many Brit Awards he received

 

Louis Smith and Jack Whitehall present the award for 'British Live Act'  

 

The complete list of winners:

 

British Breakthrough Act - Ben Howard

British Female Solo Artist - Emeli Sande

British Group - Mumford & Sons

MasterCard British Album of the Year - Emeli Sande - Our Version Of Events

Live Act - Coldplay

British Male Solo Artist - Ben Howard

British Single - Adele - Skyfall

Special Recognition Award - War Child Charity

British Global Success (for international sales in 2012) - One Direction

Critics' Choice - Tom Odell

International Female Solo Artist - Lana Del Rey

International Group - The Black Keys

International Male Solo Artist - Frank Ocean

British Producer - Paul Epworth

A lot of people have said they felt this year's ceremony was a bit of a disappointment (and admittedly there was something missing), however I felt those who won awards this year were more deserving than in previous years. Obviously I'm not a fan of everybody on the winners list, although I was delighted that Ben Howard, Mumford & Sons, Tom Odell, Lana Del Rey and The Black Keys were awarded for their music.

 

Lana Del Rey receives the 'International Female Solo Artist' award

 

Mumford & Sons collect their award for 'British Group' 


 

Guests were treated to performances on the night from the likes of: Muse, Robbie Williams, Emeli Sande, Mumford & Sons, Ben Howard, One Direction, Taylor Swift and Justin Timberlake. The majority of these performances were very good, however One Direction sounded a bit out of tune - it may have been the 'high energy' dance routine incorporated to accompany the track, but that's just my opinion don't take it to heart.

 

Muse opened the night with their latest track 'Supremacy'

 

Everyone's favourite guilty pleasure brought 'sexy back' with his performance last night

 

Sassy Taylor Swift showed her ex what he's missing. Girl power at it's best.

 

Emeli Sande closed the night with a medley of hits.

 

 In addition I thought it was great that War Child were recognised, as their work is truly invaluable. My highlight of the Brits was when James Corden sat in Nick Grimshaw's lap and the pair locked lips. It was hilarious. Finally, I am already looking forward to next year's show, however there is a long way to go and hopefully more underground artists will receive recognition next time.

 

Like Rock Revolver on Facebook

Read More »

What an eventful week it's been with David Bowie's surprise comeback and announcement of new material, The Brit Awards nominations finally being revealed and Black Sabbath unveiling the name of their upcoming album. It really does look like 2013 is turning out to be an exciting year for music.

David Bowie - Where Are We Now?

As a longtime fan of David Bowie, I was delighted that on his 66th Birthday he decided to release a new single, and announce plans for his album "The Next Day" to be released in March. As 2012 was all about The Stone Roses, will 2013 be all about David Bowie? Time will only tell.

For fans of: Iggy Pop, Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, The Who and The Doors.

 



Arctic Monkeys - Fright Lined Dining Room

Yes, I know this is a B side but honestly I think that Arctic Monkeys' b sides are better than some of their actual single releases. This is definitely my favourite track by this band - give it a listen.

For fans of: The Strokes, The Vaccines, Queens Of The Stone Age, Oasis and Kasabian.

 

Biffy Clyro - Black Chandelier

With some songs it really does take a while before they start to grow on you, and this is the case with Biffy Clyro's latest track. I've been listening to it on the radio for ages, however it wasn't until last night when I saw the band perform on The Jonathan Ross Show that I appreciated it.

For fans of: Jimmy Eat World, White Lies, Feeder, Kaiser Chiefs and Twin Atlantic.

 

Foals - My Number

I have been a fan of Foals for many years and I am really excited for the release of their new album next month. Foals' first release from Holy Fire was a track called "Inhaler" and both of the aforementioned songs portray Foals as heading into a new musical direction. Things are looking promising for the band.

For fans of: Friendly Fires, The Drums, The Big Pink, The Maccabees and Delphic.

 

 



Ben Howard - Call Me Maybe (Cover)

I cannot stand the original version of this song, however I adore Ben Howard and he managed to rework this track into something beautiful. Just give it a listen and fall in love; you can thank me later.

For fans of: The Lumineers, The Velvet Underground, Bombay Bicycle Club, Noah And The Whale and Daughter.

 

 

Like Rock Revolver on Facebook

Read More »

The Smiths - Sheila Take A Bow

I've loved The Smiths for as long as I can remember but if you can choose your favourite of their songs, well then you're stronger person than me. If I was to compile my top five, Sheila Take A Bow would definitely be up there. It's from the album Louder Than Bombs which is my second favourite Smiths record (closely behind Hatful Of Hollow).

For fans of: Morrissey, The Cure, The Stone Roses, David Bowie, Joy Division, R.E.M and The Kinks.

White Lies - To Lose My Life

To Lose My Life is one of those songs that you hear randomly but don't know the artist, and it bugs you until you find out. XFM played this last week and instantly I looked on their playlist and found it. You have no idea how happy I was.

For fans of: Editors, Kasabian, The Big Pink, The Vaccines, Razorlight and Kaiser Chiefs.

 

Port Isla - Sinking Ship

I interviewed this band last week and have had their current single on repeat ever since. Personally, I find this song perfect to relax to even though it is fairly lively and upbeat. The video is pretty cool too as it is all in black and white and has a homemade feel to it.

For fans of: Jack White, Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers.

Peace - Wraith

Peace, Birmingham's hottest new band have recently unveiled their latest single 'Wraith' which is due for release on 13/01/13. I will be downloading it the minute it's available as I love Peace and this song.

For fans of: Foals, Two Door Cinema Club, Foster the People and Bombay Bicycle Club.

Ben Howard - Oats In The Water

Oats In The Water comes from Ben Howard's latest release The Burgh Island EP. It has four songs featured, but this is undoubtedly the best song on there. This signals a new direction for the artists, although there are key elements from his debut album Every Kingdom, which you can hear clearly still.

For fans of: Benjamin Francis Leftwich, James Vincent McMorrow, Laura Marling, Lucy Rose and Noah And The Whale.

The Cribs - Men's Needs

Released in 2007, this is an oldie yet it sounds like a song released just yesterday. I became a fan of The Cribs over the summer and have had their albums on repeat. If you are new to The Cribs then listen to this song first and you will be hooked.

For fans of: The Libertines, Maximo Park, The Jam, Sonic Youth, Modest Mouse, The Strokes and Howler.

 

 

Have you listened to any of these artists/songs before? Who is your favourite and why? What should I listen to next? Comment below.

Read More »

As usual my playlist is all over the place. Recently I've discovered some artists (that I hadn't heard before) and I'm hooked on them already. When looking for new music, I generally follow the recommendations of fellow bloggers/twitter users. I find this incredibly beneficial as we have similar musical tastes, therefore they always recommend something brilliant.

Here's the music that has been gracing my playlist, over the past week:

• Eugene McGuinness

I found out about this artist via Lauren who has a slight obsession with the man. A self confessed "Beatles fanboy" Eugene has cited The Beatles and The Kinks as two of his inspirations for making music; This is clearly reflected within his records. The 60's vibe stands out above all, declaring this Eugene a firm favourite of mine.

Download - Harlequinade, Blue Jeans, A Girl Whom My Eyes Shine For

• Ben Howard

Admittedly I have a thing for male singers who play guitar. Ben Howard is no exception to this. I've been listening to him for a while now, as I'll be seeing him at V Festival next month. His lyrics are alarmingly accurate. His debut album Every Kingdom is a rare treasure. I've mentioned this particular artist in way too many blog posts recently, I'll stop now I promise.

Download - Black Flies, Old Pine, The Wolves, Only Love, The Fear

• Best Coast

I first heard about this band via a teacher of mine, and I've seen many reviews in magazines about them. Not too long ago I decided to find out what the hype is all about - I was not disspaointed. Ultimately they're a rock band, but if you listen closely you can hear underlayers of folk.

Download - The Only Place, Last Year, Why I Cry, Boyfriend, How They Want Me To Be

Read More »

Day 2 of the festival saw the likes of Rihanna, Florence + The Machine, Tinie Tempah, Jessie J, Plan B, Professor Green, Chase & Status, Magnetic Man, Lana Del Rey, Enter Shikari, Sub Focus, Ben Howard, Bombay Bicycle Club, Azealia Banks, Maverick Sabre and more perform across all six stages. Special guest Dizzee Rascal was unveiled, sandwiched between Rihanna and Flo.

Nu-folk star Ben Howard delivered an impressive set on the INMWT (In New Music We Trust) stage to the crowds. His debut album Every Kingdom has been success; this was reflected in the buzz which ran through the crowds response.

Florence & Lana Del Rey also delivered notable performances respectively.

Headliner Rihanna showcased many of her well known tracks, to the strong crowd of 50,000 in London's east end, before hitting the nightclubs afterwards.

 

Read More »