The days of the dynamic duo are upon us, and this pair hailing from London and Sheffield respectively are a welcome new addition to the fold. With their debut EP, rising synthpop stars Millie Gaum and Andrew Brassleay have merged retro 80s synths, futuristic electronica and polished pop production to create a sound that is very much the ‘in’ thing and is sure to find legions of new fans in no time. ‘New Skin’ bears all the hallmarks of Chvrches with its crowd-pleasing melodies and big, bold percussion. The quirky ‘Gift Tag’, with its driving rhythm and infectious chorus, is reminiscent of Grimes. The intro of ‘Together’ sounds like the lovechild of Lana Del Rey and the Stranger Things soundtrack, while ‘Eternity’ sounds like some robotic lullaby from the distant future. From Apes To Angels have a synth sound that is up there with the best of them, and with this assured and accessible first release they seem set to go from strength to strength.
If you’re a fan of Chvrches, Grimes, LANY and Hurts, then their upcoming EP New Skin, out 24th July, is sure to be right up your street.
The Amazons – The Amazons
Southern rock trailblazer Gregg Allman has sadly passed away aged 69 due to complications arising from liver cancer. Gregg was the singer, keyboardist and primary songwriter of The Allman Brothers Band, alongside his brother Duane who sadly died of a motorcycle crash in 1971. With such tracks as ‘Whipping Post’, ‘Midnight Rider’ and ‘Jessica’ (better known as the Top Gear theme), Gregg was a key figure in popularising the southern rock sound in the late 60s and early 70s, and remained active in the scene until his death. The Allman Brothers are perhaps best known for their album At Fillmore East, often described as being amongst the greatest live albums ever recorded. He was a deeply influential figure in rock music and will be sorely missed.
James Vincent McMorrow – True Care
Being a singer/songwriter and performing in very stripped back and intimate arrangements is all about creating a sense of honesty. Sharing with the audience something personal and meaningful, baring your soul for the world to see. London based artist Simon Baum understands this role better than most. With his new EP Better he has crafted four touchingly heartfelt songs that say a lot about his character. The title track speaks of being thankful for what you have and feeling confident in one’s self, and ‘It’s All For You’ is a moving declaration of love, complete with vivid lyrical imagery. ‘Firelight’ sees Simon’s voice at it’s most vulnerable and delicate, while the incredibly moving ‘
Royal Street – Flavors
Belwood Music 