LIVERPOOL quartet, Clean Cut Kid team hooky Haim-tinged beats with a positive philosophy that threads throughout all of their tracks. Consisting of husband and wife Mike and Evelyn Halls and Saul Goodman and Ross Higginson, they describe their sound as "soulful pop ballads, washed in Mersey water" and if you're a fan of Brighton's Fickle Friends - then Clean Cut Kids will definitely be your cup of tea. Their debut track 'Vitamin C' sets the tone, a stunningly ethereal piece that is greeted with nods as to what the future might hold for them. It's a promising start and other cuts from the group, such as the uplifting anthem that is 'Runaway', dips into honeyed harmonies whilst singlehandedly winning listeners' hearts over.
Clean Cut Kid have already earned themselves comparisons to Fleetwood Mac in their early 70s experimental stage and it's not hard to see why on tracks like '20 Years From Now' but they're coming into their own merit too.
Their brand of vibrant indie is a haven for all you minimalistic darlings out there and this hotly anticipated group are so good that one listen to them will coax the goosebumps right out of you. Clean Cut Kid are making clean-cut anthems and we can't wait to see what 2016 has in store for them.
DRENCHED in hazy riffs reminiscent of Haim's debut album 'Days Are Gone', Florence Welch has revealed the fourth cut from her upcoming and eagerly anticipated third album 'How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful. Welch might be nursing a broken foot but there's nothing stopping her powerful vocals from producing a track as mighty as 'Delilah'.
Unveiled on Annie Mac's Radio 1 show, the track is an up-tempo number that incorporates organic and electronic capabilities. The drumbeat and harmonies exist simultaneously, whilst elements of Florence's old school style will undoubtedly unite fans past and present. With lyrics such as "I never knew I was a dancer till Delilah showed me how" the urgency of the fast-paced track shines through, pulling at the heart strings and making us fall more in love with Florence then we already were.
Speaking to Billboard, Welch claimed the band's new material comes from a period in which she was "fucking everything up". Welch also went on to say that. "Without the structure of touring, you have to face your own chaos. When I was left to my own devices I realised I was fucking everything up, I was in and out of a relationship, in and out of drinking too much. It was like picking yourself up and then dropping yourself, picking yourself up and dropping yourself. And that was exhausting."
Of the songs heard from the album so far, it's difficult to pick a favourite as all of them contain heavy amounts of promise, but each new track presents new elements that inevitable look to form Florence + The Machine's most exciting album to date. 'Delilah' is beautifully atmospheric and another exciting chapter for Florence and her dreamy outfit.
Florence + The Machine were recently confirmed to perform at this year's Glastonbury Festival, which runs from June 24-28 at Worthy Farm in Somerset. Words Lauren Wade
'How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful' is released via Island Records on June 1.
Are you looking for an extra bit of indulgence? Something non-sugary but just as sweet? Call off the search as we present Nottingham's Saint Raymond - real name Callum Burrows. Following in the footsteps of Jake Bugg, the eighteen year old recently supported Californian sisters Haim as they jetted around the UK on a sold-out tour.
After appearing at this year's Reading & Leeds Festival on the BBC Introducing stage and having released an EP on Gabrielle Aplin's Never Fade Records, word is spreading fast about the young talent that is Saint Raymond.
Latest track 'Young Blood' incorporates soaring, shimmering synths alongside the indie-disco bounce that is the jumped-up drumbeats. Burrows at times sounds like the lovechild of Two Door Cinema Club and The 1975 - he hits the right grooves time and time again even if they do sound best suited to festival crowds.
With sun-drenched melodies and impossibly moreish hooks in abundance, Saint Raymond will inevitably be plastered amongst 2014's festival line-ups; keep an eye out for this incredible up and coming talent. The future looks bright. Words Lauren Wade
The third and final part of our annual festive album countdown covers the finest top five albums released in 2013. From Arctic Monkeys to Arcade Fire only the best have guaranteed themselves a slot at the top, so who made it? Read on to find out.
#5 - David Bowie 'The Next Day'
When news of 'The Next Day' arrived unexpectedly on Bowie's 66th Birthday back in January, we were all a little dubious to say the least. However, Bowie's first album in ten years is one with an abundance of naked emotion and intense melodies that casts any lingering doubts aside.
Reverting back to core Bowie mode on the 70s glam-rock inspired 'The Stars (Are Out Tonight) and elegantly urgent '(You Will) Set The World On Fire' - it's not hard to see why this impressive comeback album is as a vacuum of triumph and delights that you will unquestionably be sucked into.
'The Next Day' was released on 8th March and charted at #1 in the UK Albums Chart.
#4 - Foals 'Holy Fire'
Oxford quintet Foals took a giant leap forward with 'Holy Fire' - an album that saw them go above and beyond in their quest to reign triumphant. Their third studio album impressed with evocative dark and brooding riffs and melodies that earned them a Mercury Prize nomination and their first festival headline slot at Latitude this summer
Stand-out tracks included the gloriously hooky 'My Number' a sucker-punch tune that sizzles with summer vibes and tipped them over the edge into the pit of success that ensued. Whilst, 'Inhaler' with it's intense, chugging nature serving as the perfect contrast to softer and more subtle tracks such as the gorgeous 'Milk & Black Soldiers'. The finishing touch is 'Providence' documenting the tenfold energy present at their gigs.
'Holy Fire' was released on 11th February and charted at #2 in the UK Albums Chart.
#3 - Haim 'Days Are Gone'
Haim time arrived and swept us all into a frenzy of excitement and chilled Californian vibes in the year that was 2013 - not once did the trio made up of sisters Este, Danielle and Alana fail to live up to the hype. They delivered a breezy debut thick with an avalanche of potential hits and eternal glittering promise.
The cascading drum machine on 'Falling' sets itself apart alongside 'Let Me Go' which is sealed with thick percussion, elements of their live show and a charm that dirties those that listen. Haim's debut was an album that made us want to round up our siblings and form a rock band. Take note; Haim are the future.
'Days Are Gone' was released on 30th September and charted at #1 in the UK Albums Chart.
#2 - Arcade Fire 'Reflektor' On their fourth release, Montreal-based Arcade Fire decided to do things a little differently that resulted in 'Reflektor'. Evoking far too many heart-in-your-mouth moments to count, few expected 'Reflektor' to be the masterpiece that it undoubtedly is.
From a brilliant street art campaign, to enlisting the help of David Bowie for backing vocal duties, Arcade Fire were unstoppable throughout the latter half of 2013. Not even complaints from fans when required to don fancy dress in order to gain access to gigs could halt them.
Tracks such as the 70s-esque 'We Exist' and the experimental yet catchy 'You already Know' enabled the group to secure their claim as one of the decade's most important bands.
'Reflektor' was released on 28th October and charted at #1 in the UK Albums Chart.
#1 - Arctic Monkeys 'AM' Dividing opinions has become something of a speciality for Sheffield four-piece Arctic Monkeys, however it was fifth release 'AM' that spawned an epic and mixed up the mood once again. The only distinction being that this time, all minds were made up that 'AM' is one of the (if not) greatest albums to have been released in 2013.
An album that sees them mix the darker, brooding moments of 2009's 'Humbug' with the autobiographical elements of their 2006 debut 'Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not' and the soft love-stricken ballads of 2011's 'Suck It And See'. Maybe it's the LA-effect but we like it.
'AM' was released on 09th September and charted at #1 in the UK Albums Chart.
After dropping their debut record 'Days Are Gone' a few weeks back, that went on to take the number one spot in the UK album charts, the Haim sisters (hailing from California) are back with a fresh cut, co-written with Twin Shadow (George Lewis Jr).
'Edge' holds the same fresh-faced appeal to that of album track 'Forever', whilst middle sister Danielle's vocals delivers to an impressively high-standard on vocal duties. Elder sibling Este, known for her infamous 'Bassface' incorporates bass chords that underline the sound and serve as a driving beat.
Haim consistently craft tracks with glossy backdrops and 90s R&B harmonies, with 'Edge' being no exception. Although, this tune stays firmly away from the edge, cowering in the middle of a sound we've become comfortably familiar with. Let's hope they amp up the rock'n'roll on the next offering.
Festivals... the place to catch new bands you've never heard of and discover something, that totally has the potential to mess with your head and change your life. Fear not! What this year's Reading & Leeds Main Stage lacks in a strong line-up, is certainly made up for in a mix of fresh artists on smaller stages, those travelling under the radar with their talented sounds going unrecognised. If you're off to Reading/Leeds this week, it's time to stick it to the organisers by packing out tents to catch sets from the likes of Drenge and The Family Rain. Here's Rock Revolver's guide to which artists you should be watching throughout the weekend.
Organisers of the split-site festival, have once again booked headline acts in a controversial fashion. Reading's Friday Night headliners Green Day don't need an introduction. Following the fallout of frontman Billie Joe Armstrong's infamous on-stage meltdown last year, the band returned on a high at Emirates Stadium, London at the start of June proving to fans they haven't lost it altogether. Whilst, crowds may enjoy their hit-crammed setlist, surely this spot would have been better reserved for the likes of The Vaccines to tackle? We're getting tired of the same old bands filling up headline spots year after year.
Standing out like a sore thumb, rap icon Eminem will guarantee a reaction from the crowds. An unlikely choice, fans of the fest have commented that he doesn't really fit in with the theme or genre that the festival evokes. We can't argue with that. Scottish trio, Biffy Clyro undoubtedly deserve their headline slot. Latest album Opposites, stormed the charts and went down a treat with fans. Don't miss this opportunity to witness all the hits played in full glory.
The NME/BBC Radio 1 Stage is the place to be all weekend. Brum outfit Peace, will bring crowds to their knees on Friday afternoon on this stage, whilst their epic guitar solos and stylish outfits are so good they will coax the goose bumps right out of you. Saturday sees Lambeth's very own indie darlings, Palma Violets take to the stage. Long gone are the days of cutting their teeth on the underground live circuit, the band are now firmly in the spotlight but they will always be a bit tattered and frayed around the edges. Still not satisfied? Check out the Aussie four-piece Tame Impala's breezy blend of psychedelic rock with a modern twist. Haim are a band close to our hearts, expect the Californian sister band to debut new material from their hotly anticipated debut album Days Are Gone in their Sunday evening set.
Tickling your fancies on the Festival Republic Stage is a line-up that sets out to dazzle, by the looks of this lot crowds should expect to be blinded by talent from this bunch of newbies. Pure magic combined with sixties psychedelia is what you will be exposed to from big-haired revivalists Temples in their Friday mid-afternoon slot; We expect the Kettering quartet to be the band of the weekend without a doubt. Harnessing a professional ease that bands twice their age struggle with, The Strypes a young Irish group (all aged under 18) will pull out all the tricks before moving on to support Arctic Monkeys throughout the course of their nine-date UK tour this autumn. Miss it, miss out.
Sheffield based duo on the rise, Drenge will also play the Festival Republic Stage on Saturday, following the release of their self-titled debut album. The Loveless brothers will woo crowds with riff-orientated rock and snarling vocals. Swim Deep follow up the latter performance by bringing the sunshine, even if it the weather's a let down. Expect memorable moments from a band who never seem to put a foot wrong. Make sure you catch high-octane, bluesy three piece The Family Rain, another band who are also made up of a set of brothers. Looks like this year's festival is turning into a real family affair.
Here at Rock Revolver, we hope we've broadened your horizons for the weekend. Discovering new bands is always a festival highlight, so scour those small stages and earn yourself serious bragging points for when you get back home.
They haven't released an album yet, and although iTunes is jam-packed with their glitzy retro EP's, you could easily forgive us for wanting more from Haim. Consisting of three sisters, with long flowing hair and attitude almost as impressive as the tunes, Alana, Danielle and Este are native Californians and they have crushed our longing, by dropping new track The Wire.
A radical step up from previous material, it appears all that time holed up in the studio, gearing up for their debut album has added new dimensions to the trio's sound. Slick layered guitar phrasing, assertive vocals and sharp guitar hooks are a triple threat Haim have pieced together to their advantage; they certainly know the formula for crafting a track that energises you.
To call The Wire otherworldly would be taking it a tad too far. Whilst the group have heated up the musical climate, the usual Haim-isms are present. With any of their songs, it's not too hard to imagine Este pulling that bass face and the trio do have a tendency to concentrate on cascading vocal harmonies.
Haim have many things going for them, but the one that draws our attention is the fact that with their searing guitars and faint echoes of Fleetwood Mac, they always remain unapologetic. It's clear they're making music for themselves and if others latch on then great. However, the lingering question here is how do we get hair like Haim?
The most anticipated music event of the festival season is rapidly approaching, and this year, the line up boasts an impressive array of artists. With a little something for everyone, when the gates open in ten days - Worthy Farm is bound to be the epicentre of explosion. Here is Rock Revolver's definitive guide to the artists you need to check out if you're going to the festival, or simply streaming it online.
Announced as this year's headliners, Arctic Monkeys, The Rolling Stones and Mumford & Sons are set to tear it up on the Pyramid Stage. Following the debut of new tracks Do I Wanna Know? in Ventura, California and Mad Sounds at Hultsfred Festival in Sweden recently, Sheffield rock royalty, Arctic Monkeys, are ones not to be missed. Considering their performance at the Olympic Opening Ceremony last summer, and the fact that the band have got their fifth album scheduled for release in September, missing their headline set would make you a fool.
Offering another opportunity to catch those icons, The Rolling Stones, play the hits live (factoring a few rarities into the mix), make sure you witness the Pyramid Stage play host to the band on Saturday night, especially since last year's shows at the 02 had staggering ticket prices, leaving fans forking out hundreds. Initially, Sunday night headliners and everyone's favourite nu-folk group Mumford & Sons caused a bit of a stir when announced to close the Festival. However, you can't deny the band have worked hard to get to the top in recent years. Second album, Babel, released last September proved the folk rock four piece have got the goods and now all they have to do is display it to the masses.
Throughout the weekend, you can also catch excellent artists on the Pyramid Stage throughout the day, stretching into evening, such as: The Vaccines with their wailing guitars, and fast paced punchy anthems. 2012's biggest breakthrough, Jake Bugg with ballads to his youth and musical ability beyond his tender years. California's most chilled exports Haim. Saturday night sees indie folk star Ben Howard deposit a mellow set of acoustic anthems, whilst on the Sunday, New York rockers Vampire Weekend take to the stage.
Hitting up the Other Stage, across the weekend you can catch Northern Irish indie rock trio Two Door Cinema Club, tearing it up with their shimmering tunes and spewing riffs. Tame Impala, the psychedelic Aussies are not to be missed with their tripped out tracks, whilst the majority of their back catalogue sounds like they overdoes on flower power riffs and paisley vibes.
Playing host to under the radar rockers and those set to be massive in years to come, The Park Stage is packed with little gems you need to get in your life. Lambeth's own Palma Violets, backed by NME, take control on Friday night, crafting sets as impressive as their sudden rise to fame in the latter half of 2012. Tame Impala's female counterpart Melody's Echo Chamber play on Saturday afternoon; prepare yourself for the French vocalist's dreampop formula and acid soaked songs.
Saving the best for last, the John Peel stage is steeped in artists, serving as evidence that it really isn't all about the Pyramid Stage headliners. Aiming to lead the rock revolution (and mod of the moment), is Liverpool's Miles Kane. After releasing critically acclaimed second album, Don't Forget Who You Are, at the start of June; if you miss Miles' set you really are missing out, as he plays the crowd like no other. If we were to depict his live shows in percentages, it would go a little something like this - 50% puppy dog excitement and 50% rock swagger.
Pioneers of the B-Town scene, Peace and Swim Deep, are also set to appear on the John Peel stage on Friday afternoon, whilst Saturday sees sets from The Smiths' iconic guitarist Johnny Marr, and Ireland's teenage 60s revivalists The Strypes. Continuing the party throughout Sunday are, French wizards Phoenix, who are set to headline the stage and bring with them that much needed dose of wickedly warped electronics and dance-until-you-get-stitches-in-your-stomach sizzles.
Whilst this is just a preview of the thousands of acts at the festival, there are many more appearing across the weekend and hopefully this guide will serve you well, in deciding who to catch a glimpse of and who to miss. With the weather set to hit a record high in the history of Glastonbury, you're bound to have an excellent weekend regardless of which artists you watch.
This five piece from Dublin are creating a stir in the music industry. Their single Harper Lee is named after the author who wrote the classic To Kill AMockingbird, and I assure you this song is almost as good as the novel.
For fans of: Arcade Fire, Swim Deep, The National, Coldplay and Death Cab for Cutie.
Fun Lovin' Criminals - Scooby Snacks
I'm taking you back to the 90's briefly with this little number. It was featured on E4's My Mad Fat Diary (which is the best show on television right now) and I've had it stuck in my head ever since. Also the guitar riffs on this track are pretty special.
For fans of: Primal Scream, Happy Mondays, Supergrass, Groove Armada and Daft Punk.
The Charlatans - Crashin' In
Sticking with the 90's revival, I have been listening to The Charlatans quite a bit recently. Their sound is typical of the Britpop era but it's so good. Check this out.
For fans of: Oasis, Blur, Ocean Colour Scene, The Stone Roses and The Jam.
The Strokes - One Way Trigger
The Strokes have finally released a new single! One Way Trigger will feature on their eagerly anticipated fifth album and the band are giving this song away free on their website. Get this in your life now.
For fans of: Arctic Monkeys, The Libertines, The Rolling Stones, The Hives and The White Stripes.
Haim - Don't Save Me
Californian based band Haim are turning heads in the UK for the right reasons with their easy-going, chilled American vibes. I genuinely love this song. Give it a listen as I predict this band will be major soon.
For fans of: AlunaGeorge, The Neighbourhood, Jessie Ware, Peace and San Cisco.
Haim are a nu-folk meets 90's R&B band from Los Angeles, California. The band is made up of three sisters: Este Haim, Danielle Haim and Alana Haim.
The group first started generating hype via music bloggers in February 2012, when they released their debut EP "Forever". This was given away on their website free for a while, it was not long before it created a buzz and they were signed to Polydor Records.
In October 2012, Haim released another single called "Don't Save Me" which Zane Lowe of Radio 1 debuted. Last month the girls were announced as being nominated for BBC's Sound Of 2013 poll, and they were revealed as the winners of this just two days ago.
Haim have previously toured with major artists such as Florence and The Machine, Mumford & Sons, Julian Casablancas and Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros.
BBC's Sound of 2013 is a longlist decided by British DJ's, bloggers, critics and broadcasters who each chose their top three 'ones to watch'. For 2013, fifteen rising bands/artists have made the list, which is one that features plenty of variety to suit everybody.
Each day from New Year's Eve the top five acts will be announced, with the winner revealed on January 4.
The BBC Sound of 2013 longlist:
1. AlunaGeorge
2. A*M*E
3. Angel Haze
4. Arlissa
5. Chvrches
6. Haim
7. King Krule
8. Kodaline
9. Laura Mvula
10. Little Green Cars
11. Palma Violets
12. Peace
13. Savages
14. The Weeknd
15. Tom Odell
What do you think of the nominees? Have you heard of any of these artists before? Who should win? Comment below.
I skipped posting a playlist last week, so here is a longer edition - hope you enjoy.
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Dani California
I've liked RHCP for years but I was never a major fan or anything, this changed last week when I decided to give them a proper listen. I listened to every album back to back and fell in love, I really did. Mother's Milk and I'm With You are my favourite albums, but they're all good and I did have a hard time picking my favourites. I urge you to give this band a listen as they will change your life. You have probably heard some of their songs before and just hadn't realised it was them.
For fans of: Nirvana, Rage Against The Machine, Foo Fighters, Guns N' Roses and Led Zeppelin.
Daughter - Youth
I discovered this band a few days ago due to NME's recommendations and I love them. Combining folksy elements with soulful melodies, Daughter are a relaxing band to chill out and forget about your day to. The three piece haven't been together long, but already they have mastered their latest single at Abbey Road Studios. The band also hope to release their debut album in January.
For fans of: The XX, Laura Marling, Ben Howard, Bon Iver, Lucy Rose and Alt-J.
Haim - Forever
I found out about Haim when I learnt Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys frontman) had been spotted, at one of their gigs in Los Angeles. I checked them out instantly and my life was complete. I recognised their song 'Forever' upon listening, as XFM have played it a few times before. They are extremely underrated right now, and I hope in future they receive the media recognition they deserve.
For fans of: Jessie Ware, Florence And The Machine, Lana Del Rey and The Pierces.
Peace - Bloodshake
You have probably seen my previous post from last week about this band, but they had to be included on this playlist as I really love their sound. Playing up to the image on the EP (a watermelon cut into shapes, strongly resembling the international sign for peace) Bloodshake has a fruity core with killer guitar riffs. This is one song you have to listen to. It's upbeat, it's clever but more than anything it's a game changer.
For fans of: Two Door Cinema Club, Dog Is Dead, Foals, Foster the People, Tribes, Bombay Bicycle Club and The Maccabees.
The Lumineers - Ho Hey
I've known about this band since late September/early October, when I picked up a copy of Grazia and saw they were mentioned briefly. XFM have been amongst the first to give them airplay, but it won't be long before the rest catch up and this is a band who will be huge in a few months.
For fans of: Mumford & Sons, Arcade Fire, Fleet Foxes, Of Monsters and Men, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros and Alabama Shakes.
Alt-J - Fitzpleasure
Having recently won the Mercury Prize things are looking good for Alt-J, who earlier this year were virtually unknown. I bought their debut album 'An Awesome Wave' in July and loved every song. Fitzpleasure is my personal highlight, therefore I thought I would share it with you.
For fans of: Django Django, Zulu Winter, Breton, Daughter and Bastille.
Django Django - Default
Similar to Alt-J, this band seemingly appeared out of nowhere earlier in the year. Their debut album was released in January 2012, however I've only just got into their music. Described as a "psychedelic art pop quartet" they were nominated for this year's Mercury Prize but unfortunately lost out. However things are going well so far for them and 2013 is set to be their year.
For fans of: Alt-J, Cloud Control, Howler, The 2 Bears, Tame Impala and Eugene McGuinness.
Have you listened to any of these artists before? Who is your favourite and why? What bands should I listen to next? Comment below.
LIVERPOOL quartet, Clean Cut Kid team hooky Haim-tinged beats with a positive philosophy that threads throughout all of their tracks. Consisting of husband and wife Mike and Evelyn Halls and Saul Goodman and Ross Higginson, they describe their sound as "soulful pop ballads, washed in Mersey water" and if you're a fan of Brighton's Fickle Friends - then Clean Cut Kids will definitely be your cup of tea. 
