Opinion
11 December 2013
Two Faced Twitter
I've done it, my friends have done it, even my brother does it. It appears social media is the (not so new) place to vent. I cannot think how many times I have logged onto Twitter and right there in under 140 characters is a little dig, little jibe or snide comment aimed at…someone. But who? Said tweeter is never clear about WHO they are tweeting about, could it be me? you? a mutual friend?
I like to think my friends know exactly where they stand with me, they're aware when I am annoyed with them because I tell them. This a concept that seems lost on some of the mystery tweeters out there. Haters that prey on celebrities (beleibers and 1D enthusiasts I'm looking at you) and threaten to kill or hurt people who are close to these young 'stars' - would they have been so inclined to act this way if twitter wasn't there as a source for them? I doubt it.
It is an online hub of jealousy, harsh words and chickens. Use it for what it was meant for - connecting with the celebs you love (hey Stephen Fry, notice me) and finding that dream job (@Samantha_Writer - always looking for my break) by following or being followed by those important contacts in the industry.
Don't use your twitter for evil, happy tweeting!
Music
4 November 2013
Bombay Bicycle Club Carry Me
The album may not be planned for release until February of next year but indie band Bombay Bicycle Club just couldn't resist giving their fans a little teaser of their somewhat different sound. Appearing in the live lounge this evening the band showcased Carry Me which is set for release Nov 5th.
Follow the link below and see what you think.
Fashion
1 November 2013
Pleasing Pastels
Normally something we only ever see in the spring/ summer fashion campaigns it seems the pastel trend is now crossing over to the dark side of winter. The dreary weather may put a downer on your mood but that doesn't mean your clothes have to be dragged down with it. We saw the likes of Prada, Chanel and Chloe showcase their girly side showing us a host of elegant silhouettes and light colours to brighten up even the rainiest of days.
Of course we don't all have the money for such named labels, which is why the high street has given us a huge array of pastel pretty pieces. From chic coats to bejewelled necklaces shops such as New Look, Topshop and Miss Selfridge have hit the nail on the head with this key trend. Take a look at some key staples below.
Fashion
25 October 2013
Bambi & Manson A/ W '13
I feel I'm speaking for the majority of young girls when I say "I WANT ALL OF THESE!" Back with their Autumn/ Winter collection London based denim enthusiasts Bambi & Manson are giving us gothic grunge, edgy glam and floral surprises this season. Already noticed by Ok! magazine, Teen Vogue and Cosmo the boyfriend girlfriend duo - real names Polly and Jim - have established a strong name for themselves.
As well as having the publishing world on their side, they've also a long list of celeb short shorts lovers queueing up for their unique designs. From Alana Haim to Made in Chelsea star Millie Mackintosh and Kendall Jenner to Nina Nesbitt everybody wants to be a Bamgirl - including me.
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| L - R clockwise Dulcies, Dolls, Valleys, Stattons £60-£65 each |
The new collection already gives us a darker edge. Made with black denim each pair is different and the designs are just as amazing as previous seasons! Floral fabrics, patchwork, tearing, dip dyeing and sequins galore, you are paying for Bambi's love and care that goes into each short short giving you peachy perfection. These four beauties are my favourite designs but find the full range on their website and find the pair you fall for - you won't be disappointed.
Fashion
Winter Warmers
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| Click on the numbers below to be taken to product page 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 |
I've picked just a handful of high street favourites that'll keep you warm and bang on trend over the next few months. Tis the season where Topshop excels itself - winter pastels? Check. Tartan patterns? A whole load. Fluffy textures? Of course! You may pay a little more for the Topshop price tag but you know you're paying for the great, lasting quality.
One of my favourite brands of the moment - any of my twitter followers will already know who I'm talking about - is killing it with footwear and outerwear...and the rest. Asos is one of the best online stores and these punky black boots are there to prove it. Team them with a swing dress, leather jacket and scarf and you've got yourself an easy winter look.
Whatever trends you're going to be attempting in these dark, cold months make sure you have the right accessories, particularly bags and scarves. Enjoy the fashion, bring on the cold.
Fashion: Micro Trend - Camouflage
12 August 2013
Micro Trend: Camouflage
It's a trend that comes back season after season, camo can be dressed up or down and has the flexibility that not a lot of trends can compete with. It's a staple for festival season, Cara Delevingne was seen in army tees at Glastonbury and the khaki jacket is a firm favourite with revellers everywhere.
Designers such as Michael Kors, A Detacher and Timo Weiland all showed off their own combat catwalk creations. Kors added volume with textures while Weiland used different fabric and patterns for a modern twist. Teamed with pointed, bright coloured heels which gave it the feminine touch that this unisex trend needed, it was one of the biggest trends to come out of the fashion weeks.
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| Bag, Zara, £39.99 |
This bag is for the ladies who aren't quite so daring with this print. I think you're either a lover or a hater of camo - much like leopard print - it is definitely an acquired taste. But this bag from Zara (so you know it's well made) is enough to turn any hater into a lover. The gold chains set the dark colours off perfectly, ideal for a quiet night out with the girls or as a small day bag at the weekend.
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| Blouse, DKNY at Harvey Nichols, £199 |
Now it's time for the more adventurous fashionistas out there. This DKNY creation is a little on the pricey side, but what's there not to love with it? Slap on a gold necklace, black skinny jeans and some bold block coloured pumps and you've got yourself a staple outfit for the Season. When it gets a little chillier swap your pumps for boots and add an oversized coat with bobble hat.
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| Shoes, Pretty Loafers, £189 |
These may be my favourite camo find, they look so so comfy and with the pricey price tag you know they're going to last a long time. This is a perfect way to bring a plain outfit into Season, and instant revamp with just one item without having to buy an entirely new wardrobe.
Fashion: What the Punk?
9 August 2013
What the Punk?
Moshino's doing it. Preen's doing it. Even Michael Kors is doing it. One of the top trends coming out of the catwalks for Autumn/ Winter 2013 is punk and with it, of course is the British connection. At fashion shows there was a distinct air of London and the 80s - the ultimate punk era. Holly Fulton added textures and glamour while Preen kept it clean and elegant adding oversized furs here and there. The demure punk, perhaps?
It was Moschino who paid homage to Britain and it's culture, with a kilt-like skirt and pointy hat it was obvious where the inspiration had come from. The message was to get tough, add a stud or two and razzle dazzle in red - if you're brave - enough next season. After all this inspiration it was inevitable the high street was going to bring out its own version of punk, so for those of us who can't afford designer prices head to Primark. No, really.
Primark is fast becoming one of my favourite high street brands, it's appearance on online store ASOS is a welcome treat for many and what the brand needed to reach new audiences. I really love their take on the punk trend, with grunge themes it is sure to be a huge hit with the 20-somethings - myself included. Think Avril Lavigne all grown up.
Urban Outfitters is a place where you pay more but the quality of the product you're buying is second to none. Swim through the sea of hipsters and you will find some real gems, including these amazing tartan trousers (£45). They're bang on the money and a comfy alternative to the slick skinny. Another comfy staple for the season is the mid length denim skirt, a little longer than a mini and a little shorter than a midi. I love this dark washed one from Warehouse (£38) and with some black biker boots and knitted jumper you'll be the perfect punk. It doesn't all have to be down and dirty though this monochrome satchel from Next (£45) is for the 'Preen' in some of us, punk can be ladylike too.
Music: Albums To Look Forward To
6 August 2013
Albums To Look Forward To
If you thought all the best albums had already been released this year and your ever-yearning ears had nothing else to listen to then my list of 'albums still to come' will come as a pleasant surprise.
First we start with a new(ish) band from Birmingham - Swim Deep release their debut album Where The Heaven Are We on 5th August. This comes after a fair few festival spots and a handful of popular EP's and singles including Honey and She Changes The Weather. I caught them at Glastonbury this year and thought they were an incredible live band, holding out hope for a good first album from the brummies.
Beards, Wives, Denim, Frond and Psychedelic Mango will already strike a familiar chord with fans of Pond. The psychedelic rock band are back with new album Hobo Rocket - yet another random title to add to the list - released 4th August with two members of Tame Impala making up the band this time. They tend not to take themselves too seriously but when they sound so good, they don't really need to.
Originally inspired by Sonic Youth, Joy Division and The Cure Bloc Party release their new EP The Nextwave Sessions - no, not quite a full album - on 19th August. Bloc Party fans should make the most of these five new songs as the band have said after their headlining spot at Latitude they will be taking some(maybe much needed) time off.
Four years on we finally have a fourth album album to look forward to from Franz Ferdinand. Set for release on 26th August Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Actions comes just in time for the band's festival spot at Bestival in September, will it live up to the hype? We shall see.
If, like me, you are already a huge fan of Glaswegian band Belle & Sebastian then you will be as excited as I was to hear they will be releasing a 19 track B side on 27th August. The Third Eye Centre is the second compilation album from the band and it's meant to have some much-wanted rarities.
Probably the hottest and most talked about 'girlband' right now Haim have FINALLY announced when their debut album is going to be released - drum roll please - 30th September is the date their fans have been waiting for (myself included). With a big spot at Glastonbury Festival already under their belt they tour with Mumford & Sons and hit Reading and Leeds later this month. Days are Gone is sure to be one of the biggest releases of the year.
And here comes the best in indie-rock. Arctic Monkeys will be releasing their fifth studio album AM on 9th September after an amped-up headlining spot at Glastonbury festival this year. Frontman Alex Turner has described the album as "like a Dr Dre beat, but we've given it an Ike Turner bowl-cut and sent it galloping across the desert on a Stratocaster" - I can't wait!
Wait, there's more...
Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros 26th August
Ellie Goulding Halcyon Days 26th August
The 1975 The 1975 2nd September
London Grammar If You Wait 9th September
The Naked and Famous In Rolling Waves 16th September
Chvrches The Bones Of What You Believe 23rd September
Fashion: fckvntg.com
5 August 2013
www.fckvntg.com
If there's one thing I love it's browsing through charity shops, boutiques and vintage stores trying to find some iced gems in a sea of clothing history. But where I live there is not the best variety of shops so I head online to find some of the best in vintage clothing.
Browsing the web, Twitter and Facebook I came across 'Fuck Vintage.' A company based in the South of the UK their online store has just gone live and they've got some serious style on offer. From short shorts to head scarves and the staple checked shirt to geometric jumpers. The best thing about this company is the price, a lot of vintage start ups tend to get too money-happy when it's meant to be all about the fashion, not Fuck Vintage though.
These are some of my favourites from them so far...
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Floral Short Sleeve Blouse £10.00 |
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Tartan High Waisted Shorts £12.00 |
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Black Floral Long Skirt £12.00 |
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Round Vintage Sunglasses £8.00 |
I absolutely LOVE this floral skirt - team it with a plain white top, wavy hair adorned with floral headband and wellies and you've got yourself a great festival look. It's a piece that you will be able to wear throughout the year, come rain or shine. The shorts are for the more eccentric and outlandish of us, add tights for a punk winter look that's going to be one of the key trends this Autumn/ Winter.
Head online and find your favourites too.
Find 'Fuck Vintage' on:
Fashion: All in White
31 July 2013
All in White
Even though the sun seems to have disappeared for the time being there is still the recurring trend of crispy whites to flaunt our fastly fading tans. Seen in New York and London fashion weeks and in countless fashion campaigns - my favourite being Moschino's Summer 2013 photo shoot(above middle)- it is a trend that will last you through til the end of summer.
Can't afford VB or Moschino? I've picked through some of the best staple pieces on the high street and online. Take your pick...
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| Giraffe print pencil skirt, Topshop, £40 |
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| Lacey mesh top, Missguided, £19.99 |
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| White gem earrings, River Island, £30 |
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| Jacquard dress, Miss Selfridge, £25 |
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| Knitted jumper with leather look sleeves, ASOS, £40 |
Fashion: 90s nostalgia
18 July 2013
90s Nostalgia
One of Summer 2013's big trends was 90s. Around every high street corner there was an eager fashionista donning her vintage dungarees, Fresh Prince-esque tie dye top and jelly shoes. Quite a statement. And now with Autumn/ Winter upon us (the summer holidays go too damn fast) it seems this oh-so-easy trend is staying with us with an even edgier look.
The 90s was all about rebellion. Spice Girls taught us all about girl power and that you COULD kiss a royal and pinch his bum (poor Prince Charles), we wore scrunchies voluntarily and every girl wanted Alicia Silverstone's wardrobe in Clueless. Some of the best trends right now are coming from the most unlikely of places...cue Primark getting it right once again.
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| New york fashion week knew what was going on, no doubt these edgy trends from BCBG Max Azria, DKNY and Phillip Lim will be hitting our waters next season. |
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| Animal print and metal studs - ASOS marketplace - £30. |
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| Think lacquered, tassled and maybe add some colour - all Primark A/W 13. |
Music & Fashion: My Glastonbury
17 July 2013
My Glastonbury
It was that epic time of year again. There's a place where dreams sorta come true and fashion collides with music in the most varied and inspiring sorts of ways. You can be rubbing shoulders with A-list celebs one day and nursing the cider-hangover-from-hell the next. I am of course talking about Glastonbury festival held at the now MASSIVE Worthy Farm in little ol' Somerset (my home town). Here's a few snaps of what I was wearing and just generally enjoying the sunshine.
vintage headscarf and morning cider
glorious glastonbury
hottin' up in arcadia
favourite 'girlband' Haim rocking it on the Pyramid stage
living the dream in an ASOS creation - of course
Music: Crystal Fighters "Cave Rave"
4 June 2013
Crystal Fighters "Cave Rave"
1.Wave
2.LA Calling
3.You & I
4.Separator
5.No Man
6.Bridge of Bones
7.Love Natural
8.Are We One
9.These Nights
10.Everywhere
I think I may be a little behind the times with Crystal Fighters - their first album was released back in 2010 - it isn't until now that I have begun to take note of their easy going sound. A seemingly more streamlined second album "Cave Rave" fits in well with the weather us Brits have been having of recent. Also perfect for the festivals the band are playing this year - Glastonbury and Bestival to name a couple, no biggy.
The British/ Spanish alternative band formed in 2007 in Navarra Spain, their first album "Star of Love" was released here in 2010 but only made its way over to America in 2012. Written in just two months amidst the hills of Spain album number two perhaps lacks the story that most albums need for their listeners. While the songs are all written to get in the mood for summer (the title Cave Rave certainly represents the album's sound) some tend to feel a little lacklustre and unimaginative.
The album kicks off with three good'uns, Wave, LA Calling and You & I (the latter being their first single released from the LP) all three show the bands real talent and panache for an eclectic sound. Speaking of which, the bands instrument choices are far beyond the norm - expect the wooden xylophone, danbolin (round snare drum and the txistu (a pip whistle) - although it seems that every 'hot' band right now are choosing to break the sound boundaries, Alt-J ∆ being a fine example of this.
The album feels a little bit samesy after track four. Ending with a couple of mellow tracks - These Nights and Everywhere - do seem to bring the album to a close, Everywhere in particular. The dream-like atmospheric state of it makes you drift off "Bring me joy, bring me life, bring me everything" until an abrupt ending shakes you from this dreamy state.
"Cave rave" is out now!
You & I - Crystal Fighters
Music: Chvrches new single "Gun"
30 May 2013
Chvrches "Gun"
They are fast becoming one of the most talked about bands of 2013 and their album is one of the most anticipated, being released later in the year.
They have now given us another little taste of their electropop sound with "Gun," have a listen and see what you think! Just click on the Soundcloud tab below.
Fashion - Return of the Jelly
16 May 2013
Return of the Jelly
Every now and then there's random trends that makes a little comeback and this year is no exception. We've already seen denim dungarees, crop tops and pinafore dresses appear on the catwalks and high street but now it's time the ultimate in 90s footwear came back, the Jelly.
I remember when I got my first pair of jellies for school - back then health and safety wasn't an issue for these kinda things - and I felt the ultimate cool kid. Comfort, style and colour is everything you want from a good pair of shoes now we're all grown up and the jelly offers you that.
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| pink and blue jellies, Topshop, £20 |
Online offers a whole host of sites to get your must-have fashion trend this season. From American company Jelly Beans to our very own Northampton brand JuJu and of course the bang on trend Topshop there is no excuse to be without this nostalgic, classic piece of footwear.
Fashion: Summer Staples
14 May 2013
Summer Staples
The Shorts and the Midi
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| Shorts: Urban Outfitters £32, Midi Dress: Topshop £29 |
Shorts are a tough thing to pull off in the summer season. Too short with flashing bum is not a good look, neither is too long and looking like you're off on a cycling ride, you want that perfect happy medium. After scouring the web I found the best ones were from Urban Outfitters, at £32 they are a tad on the more expensive side - you're paying a lot for not a lot - but they are well made and distressed to utter perfection. As for one of the hottest dress shapes of the season, it has to be the midi. This loose t-shirt one from Topshop combines the dress length trend and the tie-dye/ dip-dye colouring which is perfect for that casual festival/ beach wear/ doing nothing look.
The Arm Candy and the Sun Shields
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| Bracelets: River Island £12 Sunglasses: ASOS £12 |
One of the quickest, easiest and cheapest ways to add a bit of instant colour to your outfit is with some bold bracelets. Make it stand out as much as you can with bright pinks/ blues/ golds/ reds, perfect for festival season. NB: if it's hot and you're tanning, take 'em off! Nobody likes an awkward tan line. Sunglasses are a given for summer, if we manage to get some much needed sun then they will be your saviour. Personally I whack them on come rain or shine to hide those baggy eyes, especially at a fest! The best shapes for all face types would be some retro wayfarers like these ones from ASOS or some aviators, not everyone can pull off the Lennon round ones.
The New Cute and The Token Blouse
The New Cute and The Token Blouse
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| Pinafore Dress: River Island £45 Blouse: Zara £29.99 |
Everyone has gone crazy for the kooky but cute look this year, partly due to that New Girl Zooey Deschanel and partly because it's just a really simple and easy trend to pull off. Dungarees are in all the stores from your Primark to your Topshop but if you fancy something a little more girly then the pinafore dress is the way forward. This one from River Island holds a lovely jacquard print, something different from the just denim ones out there. Blouses will see you through the year, but summer is where you don't need to add a cardy into the mix, a time to show off the whole print. This one from Zara is perfect teamed with little white hot pants and some gladiator sandals. Speaking of which...
The Summer Must Have and The Skater Skirt |
| Sandals: Office £40 Skater Skirt: George at ASDA £8 |
Probably the thing that every girl is after, the pair of the perfect sandals that can endure anything from climbing rocks on the beach to dancing in the holiday bar. As someone who hates flip flops - on anyone - sandals are my fashionable alternative and a lot less annoying than the flip flop sound. The skater skirt has been around for a couple of seasons but we are now seeing some colour being added to the mix. This bright orange one from George at ASDA will be a fail safe addition to your wardrobe. Teamed with sandals and a crop top you'll be ready to catch the rays.
Music: Vampire Weekend "Modern Vampires of the City"
13 May 2013
Vampire Weekend "Modern Vampires of the City"
Track List
1. Obvious Bicycle
2. Unbelievers
3. Step
4. Diane Young
5. Don't Lie
6. Hannah hunt
7. Everlasting Arms
8. Finger Back
9. Worship You
10. Ya Hey
11. Hudson
12. Young Lion
Their self titled first album and "Contra" now seem like just mere warm ups with the release of album number three "Modern Vampires of the City." After putting the album's date back for extra production time the album is a welcome sight for those avid Vampire fans. The upbeat tones and warm lyrical harmonies of MVOTC from the well educated foursome mask the heavy undertones of politics, death and New York City itself.
The album artwork is the first sure sign of what you are going to be getting from Ezra, Rostam, and the two Chris'. A bleak and depressing scene of New York back in 1966 was taken by New York Times photographer Neal Boenzi. Even though the image was taken over 45 years ago the band believed it showed some kind of relevant future, smog was resolved but the air has grown more polluted.
"Darker and more organic" and "very much the last of a trilogy". - Ezra for Q magazine 2013
Frontman Ezra Koenig sings of finding the existence of hell and how half the world wants Americans like him dead in the oddly upbeat track 'Unbelievers.' The juxtaposition of a happy backing track not dissimilar to a fairground ride and lyrics such as, We know the fire that waits/ if I'm born again I know the world will disagree are just what the band do best. 'Diane Young' is the first single taken from the album, singing of how short youth is and 'Diane Young' sounding more like dying young the lyrics are pretty clear, whilst of course keeping the upbeat Vampire sound. A slower pace comes with "Step" - the second single released, The gloves are off/ the wisdom teeth are out/ I feel it in my bones/ I can't do it alone. Probably one of the most complex from the album. The song talks of that girl from his youth, that first love and how he wasn't ready then but now he's stronger but can't do what he wants alone.
In every song there is a hint and sometimes more than a hint of how much the band love where they come from. The love to make a statement and create a poignancy through lyrics of politics, death, first loves and the place you live. MVOFC is a finale for the band, the last in a trilogy.
The album is out today!
Fashion: New brand Needle & Thread
29 April 2013
Needle & Thread
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| Top left clockwise: Arizuma mini dress £125, Maxi prom dress £195, Texcoco mini dress £175, Mexica mini skirt £95 |
Needle & Thread is the hot new label. Based in both Delhi and London they have now found a perfect collaboration with uber fashionable online shop ASOS. Creative director Hannah Coffin has presented a 25 piece collection filled with Aztec patterns, taking Mexican art as inspiration.
Filled with bold prints, gorgeous colours and expensive cuts the collection is sure to be a big hit on ASOS. The collection ranges from the casual mini skirts to the more outlandish prom dresses that sweep the floor beautifully.
"Created with a beach to bar feel, these standout pieces are embellished by hand in India and are destined to take pride of place in your wardrobe" - ASOS.com
Of course not everyone is going to be able to afford these gorgeous pieces as an everyday occurrence but they are pretty hard to resist. The skirt is my favourite but all of them will have you lusting after them and get you ready for those summer parties.
Shop here: Needle & Thread
Music: She & Him "Volume 3"
She & Him "Volume 3"
Track List
1. I've Got Your Number, Son
2. Never Wanted Your Love
3. Baby
4. I Could've Been Your Girl
5. Turn to White
6. Somebody Sweet To Talk To
7. Something's Haunting You
8. Together
9. Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me
10. Snow Queen
11. Sunday Girl
12. London
13. Shadow Of Love
14. Reprise (I Could've Been Your Girl)
Zooey Deschanel - that kooky 'oh so girly' girl from US television show New Girl - was on the set of her film The Go-Getter (2007) when she was first introduced to her now music collaborator Matt Ward. Director Martin Hynes thought they would be perfect together and asked them to sing a duet together for the end credits of the film.
The two clicked, Deschanel even decided to share some of the songs she had written but never had the time or confidence to take further with Ward and the rest is history. "Volume Two", "Volume Three" and "A Very She & Him Christmas" have all been successful for the duo - especially Volume Two which hit the US charts at number six and got the number one spot on the US indie/ folk and rock charts in 2010.
Deschanel said in an interview: "I always have loved music, ever since I was really little. I just loved to sing."
The oh so originally named new album "Volume 3" sees the same She & Him sound - why change something that works so perfectly? - but there's a definite difference from their previous releases and this one. Could it be the slower pace or the orchestral and choir undertones that makes it so different? Maybe both. The two have grown, it seems, into an even more romantic and whimsical duo, not quite as good as "Volume One" and "Volume Two" but still that indie folk couple fans know, love and now expect.
The first single from the album, "I Never Wanted Your Love" is She & Him at their best. The strings in the background and Deschanel's soft 50s sound have you imagining her floating around in a pretty floral dress as she sings into the mic. The song is charismatic and sometimes sad with silly, catchy lyrics that hold a deeper meaning "Take a win/ Take a fall/ I never wanted your love but I needed it, oh."
The album does hold a couple of golden covers. Starting with just a guitar and gradually building "Hold Me, Thrill Me Kiss Me"- probably the Mel Carter version not Estefan's sadly - is a highlight of the whole record. Blondie's "Sunday Girl" is also there along with french lyrics, every indie guy out there will be in a Deschanel lust mess once they've heard that whispy voice serenading them.
"Volume 3" is full of some great tracks, "I Could've Been Your Girl" in particular holds the memorable melody, sad but not depressing lyrics and Dusty Springfield-esque vocals. But there is not a single comparison with She & Him classics such as "Sentimental Heart" and "Sweet Darlin'" from previous albums.
Skip to: I Could've Been Your Girl/ Sunday Girl/ Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me
Volume 3 is out 6 May
Music: Ayre Point "Through Darkness"
28 April 2013
Ayre Point "Through Darkness"
A couple of weeks ago I blogged about a Bristol band just starting out on their musical indie adventure and now here they are releasing their first single Through Darkness.
The song - a great first single by any means - is filled with romantic harmonies, fast guitar strums and a thumping drum-induced bass. Sometimes posing similarities to Mumford and Sons but with a much rockier and upbeat sound.
"I hope you see in time you define your own life"
The song (just three minutes long) is a quick jolt of what this band from Bristol is all about. Check them out on their various social media pages and have a listen to their new single just below.
Music: Frank Turner "Tape Deck Heart"
22 April 2013
Frank Turner "Tape Deck Heart"
Track list
1. Recovery
2. Losing Days
3. The Way I Tend To Be
4. Plain Sailing Weather
4. Plain Sailing Weather
5. Good & Gone
6. Tell Tale Signs
7. Four Simple Words
8. Polaroid Picture
9. The Fisher King Blues
10. Anymore
11. Oh Brother
12. Broken Piano
13. We Shall Not Overcome
14. Wherefore Art Thou Gene Simmons?
15. Tattoos
16. Undeveloped Film
17. Time Machine
18. Cowboy Chords
19. Oh Brother (Live)
20. Plain Sailing Weather (Live)
Born in Bahrain but educated at Eton College alongside Prince William Frank Turner started out his known music career in punk rock band Million Dead. After four years the band decided to call it quits in 2005, this is when Turner was able to explore his folkier sound.
Four albums later he's back with "Tape Deck Heart" - a more 'fuck you romance' approach is evident and the whole record sounds like a diary and has a personal commitment unlike his earlier sound. As you roll from track to track you fell like you're trapped in this tornado of ups and downs in his love life - but not in a bad way.
The evident theme of love and losing it doesn't mean the album is a dreary sob fest, quite the opposite actually - it still holds the typical Turner complex lyrics and fast paced singing that his fans all love him for.
The first single 'Recovery' is all about that post break-up feeling, finding yourself in these weird situations and not knowing how you got there, you start to drift."You know your life his heading in a questionable direction when you're up for days with strangers and you can't remember anything.."
'The Way I Tend To Be' is the surprise of the album, personal lyrics and not a single shout from Turner, a slower pace and reminiscent feel it grabs your attention in a different way than anything else on this album. It may be a little uncomfortable to hear but the music is so good you don't care.
It isn't until near the end of "Tape Deck Heart" that we hear about a different love story - Frank and England. 'Broken Piano' is Turner speaking about his previous love and takes us on a journey of what he used to do when he was there. "On the banks of the muddy Thames/ I have wandered through this city/ from Highgate Hill down to the river/ I sat down in my sadness."
This is Turner's fifth studio album and there's no doubt that it is the most intense and beautiful yet. His personal memories and love-lost anecdotes cause you to stop and listen, really listen to the words - as long as you can keep up with them.
Tape Deck Heart is out NOW!
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