The second part of our annual festive album countdown sees established rock artists make waves with 2013 releases that surprised and delighted. Part 2 of our ultimate 2013 album coverage covers #10 to #6. As always, there is a little something tucked away for everyone.

10 - Paul McCartney 'New'

Fans of ex-Beatle Paul McCartney were dubious to say the least when the music icon announced news of latest album 'New'. As his sixteenth studio album, 'New' sees McCartney cover old ground in a nostalgic manner whilst incorporating elements of a feel-good nature that'll have you bopping along, even if you're one of those annoying music snobs who thinks McCartney's past his time.

Having enlisted the production skills of four producers, Sir Macca compiled one of his greatest albums in a very long time. Stand-out tracks include the effortless 'Queenie Eye' with smooth guitar lines and understated psychedelic vibes. Soulful slow-jam 'Everybody Out There' is another highlight conveying the sparkle McCartney has never once lost throughout his extensive career (no, not even at last year's Olympic opening ceremony).

'New' was released on 14th October and charted at #3 in the UK Albums Chart.

9 - Miles Kane 'Don't Forget Who You Are'
Wirral Riddler Miles Kane pulled out all of the stops on the follow-up to 2011's 'Colour Of The Trap'. The result was a strong second that proved to fans Kane is more than just Alex Turner's mate.

'Don't Forget Who You Are' is an album that sees Kane encompass a heavier sound, no doubt influenced from his time spent with the iconic Paul Weller. Big moments come thick and fast in the form of opening number 'Taking Over' and the achingly cool 'You're Gonna Get It' which aptly Weller features on.

'Don't Forget Who You Are' was released on 03rd June and charted at #8 in the UK Albums Chart.




8 - Queens of the Stone Age '...Like Clockwork'
Slick desert dwellers Queens of the Stone Age returned on top form with the release of sixth studio album '...Like Clockwork'. The album features guest appearances from frontman Josh Homme's musician pals notably: Alex Turner, Dave Grohl, Sir Elton John, Trent Reznor, Mark Lanegan and ex-bassist Nick Oliveri.

The deeply immersive listen embeds swelling riffs against a backdrop of gigantic sleazy hooks. It's almost impossible to come away feeling without feeling filthy and ready for an adventure of your own; we call that 'the Homme effect'.

Every single track featured on their highest ever charting UK album is worthy of a mention, although it's tracks like 'Smooth Sailing' with it's sleazy sizzles and urgent appeal and the swelling intensity of 'Fairweather Friends' that has enabled Queens of the Stone Age to take that next step forward.

'...Like Clockwork' was released on 03rd June and charted at #2 in the UK Albums Chart.



7 - Little Green Cars 'Absolute Zero'
Dublin folk-rock quintet Little Green Cars released their debut 'Absolute Zero'  earlier in the year that set them up for tremendous success to follow. Having supported Jake Bugg on tour and appeared on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon the group continue to go from strength to strength - having a weapon like 'Absolute Zero' in their arsenal is one which will only propel them to greater heights in 2014. 

Blending references to classic literature with melodies comparable to Mumford & Sons, their sound has been described as "post-folk in a very 2013 way". Tracks such as the kooky feel-good 'Angel Owl' and stirring previous hit 'The John Wayne' with its succulent melodies and grasping nature has only contributed to the appeal that sets them apart and allows them to exist unrivalled. 

If 2013 has seen them broaden their horizons and mould into rising stars; 2014 will see them soar. Absolute Zero? Try absolute heroes. 

'Absolute Zero' was released on 13th May and charted at #94 in the UK Albums Chart.

6 - Peace 'In Love'

As pioneers of the B-Town movement, the original wave of talent comprising of Peace, Swim Deep, Superfood and Troumaca took the UK by storm and proved that talent could be found elsewhere - not just Manchester. 

Neo-psych saviours Peace justified the hype that surrounded them in their formative phase and went above and beyond to craft a debut that bubbled with brilliance. Last year's 'EP Delicious' signalled the start of what was to follow. 

The Brummie outfit consists of brothers Harry and Sam Koisser who play alongside Doug Castle and Dom Boyce. The four-piece's glowing psychedelic debut mixes massive catchy choruses as heard on 'Wraith' and 'Bloodshake' with more tender moments on 'Float Forever' and the ground-breaking drop incorporated in '1998'.

'In Love' was released on 25th March and charted at #16 in the UK Albums Chart.

Words Lauren Wade

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Four days, four mega headliners, sun, sea and sand - if the mud and unpredictable weather of a British festival doesn't tickle your fancies, then Benicassim is the one for you. Located on the east coast of Spain, between Barcelona and Valencia you can catch the hottest of headliners whipping the crowds into a frenzy. Plus, if you need a break from the music the beach is literally next door.

This year's festival sees Queens of The Stone Age topping the bill on Thursday (18), whilst other headliners include: Beady Eye (19), Arctic Monkeys (20) and The Killers (21). Currently holding the crown for Best Overseas Festival (UK Festival Awards) it's not hard to see why, with scorching temperatures, a world class line up and sun kissed location.

With so much to see and do throughout the duration of the event, Rock Revolver has handpicked an assortment of acts you'd be a fool to miss. In addition, if the headliners aren't your cup of tea, or you fancy a break from the magnitude and scale of their performances - the following artists might be more of your thing.

Expect a hazy feel to take over when Kettering's psych revivalists Temples take on the Pringles Fibclub Stage on Thursday. Flower power riffs and a resurgence of psychedelic pop will ensure the masses experience feel-good moments aplenty during their eagerly anticipated set. On Friday, the Pringles Fibclub Stage also plays host to Birmingham's Swim Deep, ahead of the August release of their debut album Where The Heaven Are We. Prepare yourself for an excess of indie magic and glittering vibes.

Headlining the Trident Senses stage on Friday night, is ex-Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr. Catch his set if you're looking for an alternative to Beady Eye or if you fancy seeing a few of The Smiths hits played out almost in their former glory. The one to push your way down the front for on Saturday night, is the one and only Miles Kane. Taking to the stage shortly before his pals Arctic Monkeys, the Wirral riddler promises a storming and energetic set brimming with old hits and new wonders. Warning - it will turn into a sweaty affair.

On the final day of the festival, head over to the Pringles Fibclub Stage as baroque pop revivalist Jacco Gardner will deliver his tunes to the masses. Also, the electropop scots CHVRCHES are appearing on the same stage later in the evening.

Hopefully, this guide gives you an indication as to who to watch if you're going to the festival. Fear not, if you don't possess a ticket there's always live streaming.

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Voyaging on a full spectrum of influences, the follow up to 2011's Colour of the Trap, Don't Forget Who You Are sees Miles Kane pair anthemic tunes with equal parts 60s beat infused pop, 70s glam stomp and 90s Britpop. Cranking up the style factor, his most glam record to date sees Kane fashioning sassy tunes paired with razor sharp song writing (and the odd cliché thrown in here and there). Old pal and music icon Paul Weller lends a hand for good measure, displaying further evidence that Miles is more than just the man of the moment; he's the future of music.
 

With mind blowing texture, kooky hooks and retro riffs, Taking Over bleeds perfection and serves as another reminder of the exhilarating atmosphere only Kane can craft live. This elation is hard to come by in an ocean of mundaneness, but in recent years the Wirral riddler has felt like he has something to prove, that he's more than just Alex Turner's mate - this is where his top quality work originates. Flowing directly into title track Don't Forget Who You Are, listeners uncover three things: Miles' determination to shine is unrelenting "I'll shine so hard, I'll stand apart", being stylish scores you serious brownie points in Mr Kane's book "I like your style, you make me smile" and finally Kane tells us that although we may be "tongue tied and breathless". We shouldn't let our worries "dictate who we are".

 

The inspiration Miles vibes is undeniable. He really goes for it on Better Than That, exporting hard-hitting stomps, blasts of confidence and carpe diem mentality. Tender Out Of Control instructs us to "rock as we roll", whilst also bubbling with an impressive string arrangement. Cue all comparisons to Lennon. Returning to his overzealous, puppy dog excitement ways Bombshells and Tonight kick the record up a notch, both containing a thrilling intensity. The snarling vocal delivery is an aspect that makes these tunes unforgettable.

 

Dripping in skiffle beats and fuzzy guitar lines, What Condition Am I In? finds Kane in a lively state, never losing sight of his ability to pen catchy tracks. Slowing the pace down once more on Fire In My Heart, the tune unintentionally balances in the same vein as Oasis' song Half the World Away. Stand out moment featuring former Jam member Paul Weller, You're Gonna Get It sees Miles' sticking true to his word when he tells us he's going to raise his game. Soaked in riffs so hardcore it makes the listener tremble, Miles asserts himself as no longer the one to watch, but one other artists should be taking tips from, and normal folk should note how he conveys a sea of cool into everything he does.

 

Normally, approaching the end of an album would see musicians slow it down; not this artist. Kane flirts with frazzling riffs and sauntering slices of rock. Addressing the sore subject of ex-Girlfriend Suki Waterhouse on Give Up, he states "you're pretty, good looking. But I'm looking for a way out" whilst ordering her to "give up control". Ouch! Closing number, Darkness In Our Hearts urges us to be ready for it, whether it is the domination Miles is casting over the music industry, it remains unclear.

 

Miles Kane is always good at impressing with whatever he comes up with, whether it be co-fronting projects with famous pals or striving vigorously to claim the title of most stylish musician. His eager to please nature rubs off well, leaving a lingering impression that he's worked his way to the top, and now it's time to bask in the glory that Don't Forget Who You Are will undoubtedly bring.

http://www.mileskane.com

www.facebook.com/mileskanemusic

www.twitter.com/mileskanemusic

 

 

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This mod infected stomper, the debut single from The Coral frontman James Skelly contains punchy bass licks and a brewing rhythm growling at you in a way only Paul Weller and Miles Kane have done before him. This is one Merseyside masterpiece not to be missed, make sure you pick up the debut album when it drops later this year.

 

 

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Once again, Miles Kane has delivered on top form with title track from his widely awaited second album Don't Forget Who You Are. The album (out 3rd June) follows 2011's Colour of the Trap, the scouser's boundary shoving debut release. Since, we have seen Kane land a slot on NME's Awards Tour (2013), various festival performances throughout 2012, release of EP First of My Kind for Record Store Day (2012) and single Give Up which will also feature on the forthcoming album.

Produced by Ian Broudie (The Lightning Seeds) the track opens with a fired up mentality and foxy riffs, before launching into euphoric chorus stating "Although we're tongue tied and breathless we won't let our worries dictate who we are" following a few "la la la's" the tune implodes into an intoxication of sound, that really does leave you tongue tied and breathless.

 

With traces of Britpop lingering beneath the surface, Kane's latest offering sticks with the slinky rock noise only he can get away with. It must be great to be Miles Kane right now, as when the album drops in June he will be an inescapable presence ready to dominate the British music scene.

 

 

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Palma Violets - Best of Friends

Yes, I've featured this song before in a weekly playlist, however I have had it in my head all day and couldn't resist including it. Palma Violets released their debut album 180 this week and it captures the garage rock sound nicely.

For fans of: Peace, The Libertines, Swim Deep, Splashh and Spector.

Paul McCartney - Ram On

Okay, if you know me well then you'll know that Paul McCartney is my hero; I've always got an album or two of his on repeat. Sir Macca has a set of the most soothing vocals I've ever heard, and this track relaxes me in so many ways. Give it a listen.

For fans of: The Beatles, Wings, The Byrds, The Turtles and John Lennon.

 

Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere

After seeing Three's new advert with the moonwalking pony, I couldn't resist including this track. I'm a massive fan of Fleetwood Mac, and was delighted to discover their track had been chosen for the advert. If you haven't seen this advert already, then you need to get it in your life.

For fans of: Blondie, Kate Bush, Paul Simon, Annie Lennox and Talking Heads.

 



 

Miles Kane - The Competition

This catchy little track was featured on Miles Kane's latest EP Give Up. It may be a B side, but it sounds so good that it definitely deserves to be released as an actual single. If his second album carries these sort of tracks, then we are in for a treat.

For fans of: Arctic Monkeys, The Rolling Stones, The Libertines, Oasis and Paul McCartney.

 



 

Phoenix - Entertainment

My friend is a huge fan of this band, and as I have pre-ordered her their new album Bankrupt! (for her Birthday), I thought I would give their latest track a listen. I fell in love with it instantly; it is perfectly upbeat and now I cannot wait to hear the rest of the album.

For fans of: M83, The Temper Trap, Vampire Weekend, MGMT and Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

 

 

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Palma Violets - Tom The Drum

This band are everywhere at the moment, they were longlisted on BBC's Sound of 2013 poll, but failed to reach the top five. I predict that Palma Violets will achieve great things anyway. This song is featured on their debut album '180', and from what I have heard so far it is one of my favourites.

For fans of: The Libertines, The Vaccines, Kasabian, The Strokes and The Cribs.

 

Swim Deep - The Sea

Swim Deep's latest track carries warm vibes. With a relaxing pop melody, this song will have you anticipating the summer months and will banish those winter blues.

For fans of: Peace, Spector, Splashh, Theme Park and Everything Everything.

 

Miles Kane - Give Up

I've been a fan of this guy since before he released his debut album, and not once has he disappointed. Miles's music is the perfect combination of upbeat rock (with a northern twist) and slower songs his vocals croon over. If you haven't checked him out yet, I urge you to.

For fans of: Arctic Monkeys, The Vaccines, Beady Eye, The Courteeners and Oasis.

 

The XX - Chained

Over the last week I've had plenty of revision to do for January exams and such, therefore The XX were the perfect choice of background music; something relaxed which I will not be tempted to sing along with.

For fans of: The Temper Trap, Daughter, Bon Iver, Lykke Li and M83.

 

Graham Coxon - Sorrow's Army

I was having a sort out of my iTunes library and came across this hidden gem. I must have bought it ages ago and forgotten it, however I have rediscovered it so all is not lost.

For fans of: Blur, Jarvis Cocker, Radiohead, The Verve and David Bowie.

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Miles Kane premiered his new single "Give Up" on Radio 1 and XFM early yesterday morning (January 3). Available from February 24, this track takes Kane's sound in a heavier direction whilst sticking firmly to his indie roots.

 

This is the first we have heard from Miles since his EP First Of My Kind was released in April 2012. "Give Up" is taken from Miles Kane's second album, which is set for release later in 2013.

 

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NME's annual Awards Tour has returned with announcements for February 2013. Headlining this year is Django Django, with their psychedelic revival and folk-futurism, the band have responded saying that by February they will have new songs ready to perform. Django Django are flanked by 'the new modfather' Miles Kane whose second album is set for release next year. Some people have already commented that it was strange not to see Miles as the headliner, however he said that playing he has been waiting to play this tour for years; he is just looking forward to getting on the road and playing the gigs.

Django Django

Miles Kane

Third on the bill are Palma Violets, the underground breakout stars who captivated music fans earlier this year when they attracted so much attention, seemingly from nowhere. Their regular basement gatherings quickly caught the attention of record labels and the music press. Their biggest achievement this year has been signing to Rough Trade, and now they are off on the NME Awards Tour.

Palma Violets

The opening band are Peace (who are also my favourite new band right now). Much has been said about Birmingham's newest wave of talent and you have probably heard them already, but not realised it was them. Watch out for Peace as you will be humming their songs throughout the whole of 2013.

Peace

 

Tour Dates

Newcastle 02 Academy February 7

Manchester Academy 1 February 8

Leeds 02 Academy February 9

Glasgow 02 Academy February 11

Nottingham Rock City February 12

Liverpool 02 Academy February 13

Norwich UEA February 15

Birmingham 02 Academy February 16

Cardiff Uni Great Hall February 17

Bristol 02 Academy February 19

Bournemouth 02 Academy February 20

Brighton Dome February 21

London 02 Academy Brixton February 23

Ticket pre-sales began at 9am this morning (Wednesday November 28) however there may still be tickets left if you are lucky.

What do you think of the line-up? Do you agree with the choice of headliner/opening act? Comment below.

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The Strypes, a four piece beat band from Cavan, Ireland, are one of the most exciting new bands to have emerged since The Vaccines a couple of years ago. The band agreed to give me an exclusive interview, charting their rise to recognition via NME magazine, and gaining celebrity fans such as Paul Weller and Miles Kane.

 

Rock Revolver (RR) - Your music has received comparisons to how The Beatles sounded during their Hamburg era. Have they influenced you at all?

The Strypes (TS) - Yes, the Hamburg era Beatles are certainly an influence on us, when they were a rough and ready, kick ass rock'n'roll band. Our main influences as a group also include white rhythm and blues bands such as Dr. Feelgood, The Yardbirds, The Rolling Stones, The Animals, Nine Below Zero, The Blues Band and John Mayall & The Blues breakers, as well as the original black bluesmen/rock'n'rollers like Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Howlin' Wolf, Little Walter, Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters to name but a few!

 

RR - Can you tell me a bit about how you got started in the music business?

TS - Although we've been playing clubs and festivals around Ireland for over a year now, our first break into the music business came in April 2012, when we released a four track EP called "Young, Gifted & Blue". There was no record label involved and we did all the work and promotion ourselves. It was released on Friday 13th April and shot to No. 1 on the iTunes Blues chart the next day! The following week we appeared on Ireland's top TV program "The Late Late Show" where we performed the lead track from the EP (a Bo Diddley cover) called "You Can't Judge A Book By The Cover", after which the EP began receiving regular national airplay. It was then that we started getting regular media attention. We had a very busy summer, where we played a couple of gigs a week for three months solid and appeared at almost every major festival in Ireland. In September '12 we made a whistle-stop tour of London, where we played two nights at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, followed by sets at Gaz's Rockin' Blues, Soho, The Blues Kitchen, Camden and the premier of the new B.B. King film "The Life Of Riley" in the Mayfair Hotel. All the shows were great, with Jeff Beck, Kenney Jones, Mick Taylor, Mark Lamarr and Miles Kane in the audience. It was as a result of these shows that we appeared in the NME...

 

RR - You were featured in NME recently, what was that like for you?

TS - It was a real buzz to be featured in the NME, especially because of its long history and the fact that it is one of the biggest music mags going! We were all really excited and pleased about it.

 

RR - Paul Weller is a fan of your music, how does it feel and what does it mean to receive recognition on that level?

TS - It was amazing to find out that he is a fan. We are huge Weller/The Jam fans and are big into the Mod culture too. The quote from him about us in the NME was fantastic too.

 

RR - You're from Cavan, Ireland, what is the music scene like where you live?

TS - The music scene in Ireland in general is very small, actually. There are no proper music venues in Cavan, except for pubs (where nobody really wants to hear rhythm and blues!) so most of our time is spent playing clubs around Dublin, which has a really good scene and some really great venues to play.

 

RR - Who are your favourite bands/solo artists right now?

TS - As we said in the first question, most of our musical diet consists of 50's/60's/70's blues artists, but as far as current artists go we like Miles Kane, The Jim Jones Revue, Kitty, Daisy & Lewis and The Heavy.

 

RR - You are all still quite young, from what age did you get into music?

TS - Yes, we are quite young to be where we are at the moment! Contrary to what the NME said though, the band's age range is 15-17 years old. We all grew up in a very musical houses, with our parents being involved with different bands over the years, whether it was playing in the band or a behind the scenes job. We all grew up with music around us, so we have sort of always been into it!

 

RR - What is the best piece of advice you have been given, and who gave it to you?

TS - "Don't get screwed by a record company!" - Jeff Beck said that!

 

RR - Have you been to any festivals before?

TS - Funnily enough, we had never been to any festivals before we started playing them. Now we have played tonnes! Last summer, was incredibly busy. We must have played every major festival in Ireland! One of the highlights of them all was Westport Festival, where we played the main stage on the bill with Seasick Steve, Imelda May and Jools Holland. We got to meet and chat with them all and had a fantastic time.

 

RR - If you could choose one major venue to headline, which would you choose and why?

TS - We have no ambitions at the moment to fill stadiums, but to sell out venues like the 100 Club, Dingwall's or the Hope And Anchor would be fantastic.

 

RR - Who are your heroes and what do they mean to you?

TS - Jeff Beck, Wilko Johnson, Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, Charlie Watts and John Mayall are all great. They aren't so much heroes as they are musicians who we really admire and respect.

 

RR - Out of the four of you, who has the best taste in music and why?

TS - We argue about that all the time! Seriously, it would be unfair to pick one of us, and we all have very similar tastes in music anyway.

 

RR - Have you heard of Jake Bugg? What are your opinions on him?

TS - We really like Jake Bugg and actually went to see him live on Arthur's Day in Dublin. It's great to see another young person out there rebelling against the manufactured, synthesiser-riddles rubbish hogging the charts these days. Anyone who wants to break away from the X Factor bollocks and make real music is okay with us!

 

RR - If you couldn't be involved with music, what would you like to do when you are older?

TS - We would all still definitely be involved in the arts, whether it be in film, graphic design, literature or something like that.

 

RR - Finally, do you have any plans for the future?

TS - There are no definite plans at the moment, we are not the five year career plan types! Things are changing so often and we are getting so much news and attention lately it's hard to tell where it's going to go, but it would be great to get an album out and a proper tour next year.

 

I would like to thank The Strypes for this interview, and I wish them all the best for the future.

 

If you are eager to find out more about this band, check out the following links for further information.

www.youtube.com/TheStrypesOfficial

www.twitter.com/#!/The_Strypes

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/The-Strypes/209082819114610

http://soundcloud.com/the-strypes

http://wearethestrypes.tumblr.com/

 

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So far 2012 has been a great year for music, and this is a trend that is set to continue. Already we have seen albums released from:

• Tribes (Baby)
• The Enemy (Streets In The Sky)
• The Maccabees (Given To The Wild)
• Pulled Apart By Horses (Tough Love)
• Graham Coxon (A+E)
• Alt-J (An Awesome Wave)
• The Cribs (In The Belly Of The Brazen Bull)
• Paul Weller (Sonik Kicks)
• Howler (America Give Up)

We have also heard EP's released specially for RSD (Record Store Day) from contributing artists such as: Arctic Monkeys, Miles Kane & Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. Each of those records (respectively) are incredible.

There are many albums that are set for release within the latter half of the year. Here's my guide to what's being released, when and what to expect.

 1. Mumford & Sons (Babel)

This is a band whose second album has been eagerly anticipated, since release of their debut album (Sigh No More) back in 2009. The band decided to shun mainstream festivals to stage their own festival 'Gentlemen Of The Road Stopover' this summer. With dates in Huddersfield and Galway this is a festival, that has seen the folk four piece showcase new tracks as well as old favourites, for the mighty crowds.

Band member Ben Lovett has stated that "We've found it hard getting off the road and into the studio" which is an explanation as to why it's taken three years, for their second album to be announced. However we believe the 'difficult second album' will be their best yet.

2. Miles Kane (TBA)

After 2011's (Colour Of The Trap) was released, Miles is a man who has only gone from strength to strength. Miles has supported his close friends Arctic Monkeys at their headline gigs all over the world, as well as supporting Kasabian throughout their UK tour late last year. However he has played shows of his own back in April (this year) and is now circulating the festivals, armed with brand new tracks: Women's Touch and The First Of My Kind, these are weapons scouser Kane uses to his advantage, and will be featured on the second record. An official release date for the album has yet to be announced, although rumours have spread that it will be sometime in the autumn. Watch this space for updates. Follow him on twitter @mileskanemusic

3. Jessie Ware (Devotion)

A newcomer when it comes to the music industry, Jessie Ware first came to our attention a few years ago, when her vocals were featured on a track by producer SBTRKT. Since then EP's have been released and tracks such as Running and 110% have received a considerable amount of radio play. This is an underground artist that you need to keep a close eye on, as it won't be long before she's everywhere. You can purchase Jessie's album on August 20th from all major retailers, and online stores. Follow her on twitter @Jessie_Ware

4. Muse (The 2nd Law)

I don't know about you, but I'm really excited for Muse's sixth studio album The 2nd Law to be released in September. A psychedelic substance, the band's new record has already divided fans due to their use of dubstep beats in the fresh teaser trailer. Tinged with contrast this is an album from Muse that will be like no other. Although elements from previous albums will linger slightly, they'll be taking a smaller role in this production; this is more of an experimental album than anything else. Hardcore Muse fans will undoubtedly love it, as for the rest of the fans well...they will have to suck it and see.

5. The XX (Coexist)

What is it with artists and second albums this year? 2012 will be known as the year that all those brilliant second albums were released. The XX contribute to the mix with their long awaited second album Coexist which is set for release on September 10th. Recording began on this album in November last year, and the band have since said that the album title is all about "lost love - from exes or the person you're with now" so should we expect an album of love tracks? Band member Romy has spoken "A lot of it is still personal, but I've been a bit more inspired by things that have happened to other people and putting myself in their shoes. But they're all love songs and some of them are sadder than others". Yes would be the answer to my earlier question. Contrast seems to be a theme which threads throughout all artists, releasing second albums this year. However that's not necessarily a bad thing. You can catch The XX playing Bestival on September 7th, days before the release of their record. That should be an interesting show.

6. Spector (Enjoy It While It Lasts)

"We want to expose the bullshit in the music industry" Well that's quite a heavy ambition coming from frontman Fred Macpherson, but we have faith that he'll attain this desire anyway. NME have described Fred as "Indie's wittiest comeback kid" and Spector themselves have added to the hype (sort of) by dubbing themselves "Nothing you haven't seen before". There's a lot of focus on the five piece to smash it, when their debut album is released on August 13th (available to pre order now). They'll do it. With existing tracks such as Celestine and Chevy Thunder already gracing our iPods it would be difficult for them not to make it.

7. Dog Is Dead (All Our Favourite Stories)

Announced only yesterday, the debut album from Nottingham's hottest rockers has been a long time coming - a release has finally been announced, to their fans delight. The album will be available to purchase from the autumn, however we don't have a specific date yet. All in good time. Huw Stephens broke the news last night on his radio show, that the band are also releasing their single Glockenspiel Song on July 23rd. You need to get this band in your life - they're fab.

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Guest bloggers are a fantastic idea, as they really make a difference to your blog. They add a refreshing difference and diversity. Here's my first guest blogger's post.

I asked Lauren of The Music Manual to write a post for me on anything (music related) that she liked. Here's what she came up with: Ten songs that you think are alright but not given much thought too.

 1. How do I end this? - The Rascals

The lyrics make this crafted beauty a personal perfection topped of with it's melodramatic melodies and filled scouse licks - thanks to the wonder of Miles Kane.

 2. Ghost Town - The Specials
 
Get your reggae 80's music clash and eerie sounds and an old keyboard you'd find in an old people home and there you have a Ghost Town. I mean, the percussion, strings and wind are all very well together but carefully mixing the completely different reggae with a hint of Egyptian mummy music... Unless that's just me. Oh If you've watched Shaun of the dead, you'll just think of the film all the way through listening.

3. Roll Over Beethoven - The Beatles

Okay, okay, damn that scouser having to mention the Beatles but honestly, roll over Beethoven is classic rock 'n' roll... If you're into that but, even if it's not your 'thing' listen and be blown away by a totally bare Beatles song, almost untouched by the big Beatle tourist name, used to draw people in... No yellow submarine's here!
 
 4. 7 - Arctic Monkeys

Good old arctics from a baby Al Turner proves his cleverly crafted words which seem completely simple until you lie on bed and sing the song within your head, questioning what It means and whether old is better than new? Who knows, the guitar rift is catchy as fuck and let's face it, beautiful.

5. Songbird - Oasis

Yeah, some people will disagree but I love this. Completely down to earth, stripped back song, without the typical oasis criticism which some venomous songs radiate. If I was to be honest I love this song to death and imaging someone singing it to me goes to the bottom of my spine sending shivers, probably best if you're a hopeless romantic, like myself...

6. Give Peace A Chance - John Lennon

I don't know the full extent of the way I feel about being obsessed over this song. It's a simple beat, powerful message, a lot of words mumbled by John and a chorus of the title, over and over again.

7. Irrational Anthem -Eugene + The Lizards 
 Perfect. Perfect. Perfecccct. Eugene pours his hmpf and man power into this song, creating a sea of unknown pleasures from anyone who has listened. Just yeah woah.


8. After Hours - We Are Scientists

After hours has one of those addictive tunes which you remember over and over in your head, bringing a new outlook to your listening of We are scientists, try and compare this song with something around now and you almost can't find a perfect twin of the song, this proves the ability and sheer amazing powers of the band. Bit of a slow one compared to others on their Brain Thrust Mastery album though.

9. Rape Me - Nirvana

Let's beat around the bush; yes the title clearly says 'rape me'. It's fucking brilliant. Cobain, yet again brings his unique voice to this song with a dark meaning and twisted it on it's head. No wannabe Nirvana followers will know this song, as its just too brilliant for them to handle.

10. Electricity - Arctic Monkeys

Asdfghjkl. The Sheffield accent is almost over run by heavy music, yet it complements it perfectly, it's a dark sound with an almost sarky twist in the words, that roll of the Turner's tongue. Happy listening whilst orgasming.

If you liked Lauren's guest blog post, then you can follow her own music blog http://laurenmusicmanual.blogspot.co.uk/

 

If you'd like to be my next guest blogger then comment below.

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Here is Rock Revolver's list of Jubilee inspired anthems for you to enjoy.

1. The Queen Is Dead - The Smiths

2. London Loves - Blur

3. God Save The Queen - Sex Pistols

4. Queen Bitch - David Bowie

5. Monarchy Of Roses - Red Hot Chili Peppers

6. Jubilee - Blur

7. Venice Queen - Red Hot Chili Peppers

8. London Calling - The Clash

9. The Man Who Would Be King - The Libertines

10. London - The Smiths

11. Kingcrawler - Miles Kane

12. London's Burning - The Temper Trap

13. Revolution - The Beatles

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