How has this happened! Although, this week and next has been packed full of albums, the old, the new, the good, the bad and the ugly… (I will be putting the full reviews up over the next few days - sit tight!)
Talking of good, the wonderful Keaton Henson kick started the week with the release of his stunning second album, ‘Birthdays’. The release follows his critically acclaimed debut album, released just last year, ‘Dear…’ As if that wasn’t enough, new single, ‘Lying To You’ has also, just hit shelves in the wake of extensive support from the likes of Radio 1, XFM, 6Music and Radio 2.
These past few weeks have seen the fragile character embark on a string of unique headline shows, at museums nationwide. A somewhat rarity for a fellow who suffers with extensive anxiety, so it’s not surprising the shows sold out in a matter of minutes.
At the tender age of 24, Keaton Henson is known to many, with an ever committed fan base, loved not just for his beautifully emotive songs but for his artwork and poetry. However, somehow he’s a virtual stranger, whose anonymity is no accident. Lucky enough for us, Keaton visited us for a hauntingly beautiful series of sessions.
Next up, hype band ‘Palma Violets’ with their highly anticipated debut album, ’180′ named after the studio they produced the album in and held many a wild party.
Showcasing their trademark, enigmatic, garage-rock, the London indie rockers have been riding the wave of new found fame, with the album following a chance meeting at Reading Festival just eighteen months ago. This hook heavy indie rock highlights aspirations for a new found ‘Libertines’ come ‘Clash’. What do you think? ’The hottest band since The Libertines’ or just a well attempted effort to prove they’re worth the hype?
At the other end of the scale, the wonderful Sivu released his debut single, ‘Better Man Than He’ on Monday. If he’s a name you’re not familiar with, let this be the end to that. You must check him out right away. Tuesday night saw me gazing into the eyes of a man whose realising he’s not too bad actually, infact he’s ruddy excellent. Singing to an incredibly packed, over capacity Slaughtered Lamb the humble James, (Sivu) and his trusty band captivated an audience from the off. Displaying delectable vocals with his Alt-J infused sound, the gig had many an industry folk frothing at the mouth, could he be the next big thing? I think so. You heard it here first…
And lastly, Laura Mvula. The unique 26 year old hailing from Birmingham, who combines her Caribbean background and classically trained music knowledge to create a delightful soul infused sound reminiscent of the late Amy Winehouse.
With a love for layering vocals, Mvula teams delectable vocals and delicate chimes with a choral backing. This exceptional talent is signed to RCA and next week releases her debut album Sing To The Moon. The record is a clear indication of Mvula’s attention to detail and construction. However, having received a degree in composition, it comes as no surprise. The album, which is streaming on iTunes now, indicates glimmers of a bright future, a star who is slowly building up to be a big name – certainly one to watch out for in 2013.
And that’s enough for now. Who’s joining me on Sunday for Communion showcase in London? The wonderful Amy Holford will be performing and Daughter will be DJing. Yes, Daughter. That’s right. I’m not quite sure what to make of it either but I’m hoping I’ll be swirling my hair and recklessly dancing to Aqua all night long.
Enjoy the weekend.
Peace x
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