Matthew Good’s 2013 release ‘Arrows of Desire’ is the Vancouver-based singer/songwriter’s seventh solo outing [and eleventh studio album overall, counting those fronting his eponymous band] and yet it seems as if he’s hardly made any waves at all in the UK. In his homeland, The Matthew Good Band were/are big news, and yet prior to the release of ‘Arrows’, Mr. Good’s UK shows were in front of a rather intimate, select crowd. However, it seems that those in the know really get him – and for those who do, this is an album that does not disappoint. Years of honing his talent has resulted in a striking disc, the first half full of huge riffs and simple hooks, the second more cerebral, which combined leads to a hugely entertaining listen.
Helmet / Melvins: Aussie tour dates
Alternative rock fans in Australia are getting a special treat this December when Page Hamilton is scheduled to appear at a run of dates across the country. What’s more, most shows will also feature near-legendary Washington State noisemakers (The) Melvins!
HELMET/MELVINS dates:
GEOFF USELESS – Don’t Stop
After almost a decade churning out music for a cult following, US punks The Guts went on hiatus in 2009. Frontman and founder member Geoff Useless took the opportunity to embark on a solo career, resulting in an EP and this full-length offering, originally released on Livid Records in 2010. Considering Useless had also worked with The Queers and The Nobodys, ‘Don’t Stop’ is pretty far removed from being the punk (or even pop-punk) record each of his prior connections would ever suggest. But then, what’s the point in having an outlet for solo work if it’s just gonna mirror your “day jobs”?
BUTCH WALKER – Peachtree Battle EP
Butch Walker’s 2011 release ‘The Spade’ was a real mixed bag of a record, showcasing a variety of the singer/renowned producer’s many musical styles, from hard rockers through power pop gems and even a foray into quirky new wave-ish material. It was the kind of record that most people were unlikely to enjoy all of; however, the variety within its grooves meant there was something featured that would be of interest to most rock/pop fans. From beginnings likely to incur mixed feelings, it proved somewhat of a grower – a record that improved with each passing year.
SONS OF THE EAST – Sons Of The East EP
This self-titled EP is the debut outing from Australian trio Sons of the East. Self released, there’s a warmth in the material that suggests it’s been a while in the making. Those who enjoy acoustic music are almost guaranteed to come away having heard something great, even if they don’t enjoy everything on offer.