EP/CD/Band Reviews
Gallery 47
Gallery 47 is a talented musician, no doubt about it. The EP "Logic 3 Starfighter" is incredible, to think one person can create the depth, texture and emotion you hear in his music is mind boggling. The change in tempo, the dynamic variation and, of course, his voice are all elements that set Gallery 47 right up there with some of the best unsigned solo/acoustic/indie artists I have heard, and that's a fair few. The content admittedly confuses me slightly, the line "stay away from bread" probably more so than any others, but you have to admire the workings of his brain to not only think to include a line like that in a song, but actually make it fit. All in all, Gallery 47 is a brilliant musician and I would highly recommend him. 5/5 - Caz @ RiotZine 2008
Satellite State.
Everything stripped right down to the bones, simplicity at it's finest. A band that will go far.
Amida.
Amida's "Arts&Crafts" EP is 6 tracks of sheer beauty. There is a song here for everyone. Each track sounding different to the last, yet all with the same underlying elements that define this band. Once you start listening, you're hooked and just can't get enough.
The Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
These guys are good, let's face it. This doesn't mean however they are perfect. They are lively, full of energy and have a rebellious attitude, but that comes with a down side. The fact that you can hardly hear Sam's vocals as they have been drowned out. This may how ever have been the recording. The band seems like its live sets are the thing to go to. I am looking forward to seeing these guys in February. (***1/2) - Chris Priseman RiotZine 2008
The Seasons
Ok where do I start with these guys? The Seasons are............ I'll just spit it out, if you mix the Beatles with a subtle darkness with a pinch of nicotine, you have a band that is not only amazing but full of potential. Edd Hillman's (Lead Vocals, Guitars, Keys, Song writing) voice is the perfect contrast to his guitars and with the added power of Lit Gospel (Lead Vocals, Guitars) the band's talent and the band's catchiness is almost addictive. I must not forget to mention both Rob Pocklington (Bass, Backing Vocals) and Beannie (Drums, Keys, Song writing) without whom the band would fall down. These guys are so awesome and I can't wait to see them tour soon. Keep and eye on these guys as they will rock your socks of :) – Chris Priseman. RiotZine 2008
"In a world where it seems that so many bands want to seem dark and moody" And this is exactly what they have done. Their current demo "songs for the lost" is their second EP, of which you can find four of the five songs of it on their myspace page. The band its self consists of five very talented guys who stick to their goals and won't lose them. Their sound is driving and dark, as well as catchy. They left us at RiotZine hanging for more the Hampshire based; darkness influenced band "Covert" is something else. Convinced with not selling out, their music shares this view which they have really followed. With not selling out firmly on their minds they play to express themselves, which shows a lot for is mix's with the music they make, transforming it into a fuller, more complete sound which everyone loves. They claim they are only influenced by life but there feels like a small bit of John Lennon in their sound (from the slower lyrics) with the catchy and amazing riffs of bigger alternative names. These guys, given the chance will be Britain's next true band which means and stands for a real cause. The song on the EP which struck us the most was "Crying Answers" which floods the listener in a solid and immersing sound, but develops a real character more than their other songs. The character comes from the guitar which is strong all the way through. I would recommend these guys to anyone looking for local masters of music. (*****) - Chris Priseman RiotZine 2008
The Broadcast
For being together only eleven months they have achieved so much. From playing with noticed bands such as Furthest Drive Home and Saving Aimee to recording their first album, these guys have done it. Their unique mix of electro, power pop and pop-punk sounds like something else. The song "PLANS" sounds so great it is quite rare to see a song so like this. It is the favourite from the demo here at RiotZine. The album will be out soon and if this is the quality of the sound coming out of THE BROADCAST then this one album worth buying in '08. Chris Priseman RiotZine 2008 (****)
From Cambridge comes the awesomely catchy Error 404. In their words" Error 404 are a 4 piece, pop-punk/power pop/rock band who set out to write catchy, upbeat, fun, rhythmic and melodic tunes!", and they achieve just this. Their music is so fluent and almost hypnotic. The quintet featuring Dave Rawling(Drums), James O'Kane (Vox/Guitar), Shaun Jordan (Guitar) and Mark Gilbert (Bass) sound all together well rounded with the experience of being through the thick and thins of life and it's heard in all tracks. Their EP "The Game" is definatly worth its weight in gold. Well done guys and I hope to see you soon. (****) - Chris Priseman RiotZine 2008