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.
Tag Archives: alternative
KING WASHINGTON – The Overload
King Washington’s debut album [‘The Gears’, released in the summer of 2012] was a special record indeed. The previously unknown band really made an impression with their blend of retro roots rock and slightly more 90s attitude. Just over a year later, their musical journey continues in a different manner, with KW keen to both expand their range of sounds on ‘The Overload’ and to shift outside of their comfort zone.
EASY TIGER – Easy Tiger EP
Back in the Autumn of 2011, Austin’s Easy Tiger released a two track single featuring well-constructed, Posies influenced alt-pop. Literally weeks later, they returned with a new drummer and this four track EP of songs named after girls. Although this second release has a slightly lighter tone at times, the better songs retain the spark of those prior recordings.
DUKE & THE DARLINGS – Champagne Of The People
This second EP from Manchester-based Duke and the Darlings was recorded live in the studio and its relative rawness gives the material a natural energy and edginess. After recovering from the initial shock of something sounding like a blown speaker, there are four well played numbers waiting to be discovered from beneath the general fuzziness.
FLAGFALL – Flagfall EP
What to do with a bunch of guys from Sydney who claim to make music for misfits, drawn together via a love of The Black Keys and Kanye West? Keep an open mind if you can…since this Australian quintet make some interesting music on their debut EP. The four tunes are driven by obvious funk grooves but their eclectic sound draws from a wider palate, incorporating a hefty dose of pop, and elements of soul and rap for good measure. The funk elements – seemingly high on their list of musical priorities – come courtesy of some rather large and warm sounding lead bass parts, which in turn are brought to life by a terrific production job by sometime John Butler producer Tony Buchen. It is instantly obvious that these tunes have not been recorded “on the cheap”.