BRIGHTON babes Demob Happy are a four-piece taking a stand against banality and apathy, whilst making seriously sweet sounds. Formed of lead singer/bassist Matthew Marcantonio, drummer Thomas Armstrong and guitarists Matthew Renforth and Adam Godfrey. In terms of their signature sound, think super-sized brooding epics tinged with Queens Of The Stone Age style riffs and snarls reminiscent of Metallica here and there. 

The quintet's track 'Junk DNA' is a frenetic anthem from the minute you press play. The riffs and beats come thick and fast, there's no doubt Demob Happy could give Muse a run for their money at times. The group manage to spark a frenzy and ensure listeners will be listening long after their sub five minute track is over. 

Dealing in mind-expanding material, we're excited to see what the future holds for this four-piece. If they keep up the bruising rhythms and searing guitar hooks, then it won't be long before they seamlessly transition into the band that everybody's talking about. 

Words Lauren Wade

www.demob-happy.com

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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.

 

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David Bowie - Andy Warhol

This track is from Bowie's fourth album "Hunky Dory". The start of the song begins with Bowie correcting his producer Ken Scott, who had mispronounced Warhol's name, on the actual pronunciation. I like this song because it presents Bowie as a real person, with inspirations and experiencing some of life's awkward moments. For example after his studio chat with his producer, Bowie asks if the tape is rolling and when he discovers it is - laughter follows. This is Bowie at his best, go on give it a listen.

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

 

Bastille - Sleepsong

I discovered this band in August last year following their performance at Reading Festival. Fearne Cotton was hyping them up so I decided to give them a listen. From my first preview, I liked their sound and what they were doing but it wasn't enough to make me want to download the tracks. Although when iTunes released this a as a free download, I thought I'd give it another listen and I can confirm it was ten times better the second time round. Check it out now.

For fans of: Alt-J, The Neighbourhood, Dry the River, Maverick Sabre and Kodaline.

 

 

The Rolling Stones - Doom And Gloom

I love the Stones! I love this song! It's classic and it contains an uptempo blues attack which is catchy and so good. This is the track that leaves you wanting more. I would kill to see this band live. I really would.

For fans of: The Who, The Beatles, The Doors, The Beach Boys and Jimi Hendrix.

 



 

Wolf Alice - Fluffy

This woozy number has hints on punk with fantastic vocals from Ellie Rowsell. I've heard this a lot on the radio, and it's one of those songs which grow on you over time. Give it a listen.

For fans of: The XX, Jessie Ware, Chvrches, Haim and Disclosure.

 





Muse - Supremacy

I was introduced to this track in October when Muse released their sixth studio album "The 2nd Law". This is the opening song on the record, and I believe it's a great opening number. It's classic Muse with Bellamy's trademark vocals and apocalyptic clashing of instruments. This is the band's latest single (and I think it would have been perfect for the latest James Bond film) so what are you waiting for? Get this in your life now.

For fans of: The Killers, The Strokes, Radiohead, Kasabian and Franz Ferdinand.

 

 

Are you a fan of any of the artists featured? Have you heard any of these songs before? What should I listen to next? Comment below.

 

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This year I've found with many albums it takes multiple listens, in order to fully appreciate the music featured. However with Muse's sixth album The 2nd Law this has not been the case. I became a fan of Muse in 2009. Musically and personally, this was a turning point (I never reverted to my old ways) as I began to listen to different genres of music; Muse were one of the first bands I listened to in my journey of musical exploration, and I have harboured a love for them ever since.

 

The 2nd Law opens with 'Supremacy' a fantastic track, slightly reminiscent of the trio's 'Feeling Good' cover from the Origin of Symmetry era. However it must be noted that OoS vibes are scattered throughout the album. That's not a bad thing though. The album delivers a sci-fi feel with an alternative core, familiar tracks 'Madness' and 'Survival' follow the newbies, as well as tender tunes 'Isolated System' and 'Save Me'. My stand out favourites are 'Panic Station' 'Supremacy' 'Follow Me' and 'Animals'.

 

So the rumours turned out to be true - Muse went dubstep (partially) but now the question has been raised, was this the inevitable step in Muse's career? Making an album like The 2nd Law was daring, it was different, but was it unexpected? Personally, I don't think so but regardless of the results - Muse pulled it off in style. I would give this album 9/10 as it is brilliant.

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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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