In a move that has surprised literally no one, Ed Sheeran has been revealed as this year’s third and final Glastonbury headliner. Given the year that he’s had thus far I’d say being top of the bill at the Pyramid stage is more than justified. His third album Divide has been breaking numerous records, becoming one of the fastest selling albums ever and completely taking over the UK charts with all 16 tracks in the top 20, in an unprecedented event that has called for changes in the role of streaming services’ contributions to the charts. Sheeran will close the festival on the Sunday, following fellow headliners Radiohead and Foo Fighters.
Interview: Charly Coombes
Photo by Rayana Macedo
Formerly of 22-20s and brother of Supergrass frontman Gaz Coombes, multi-instrumental singer/songwriter Charly Coombes has a wealth of musical knowledge and experience at his fingertips. With two solo albums already to his name, the folk rock of No Shelter and the interstellar soundscapes of Black Moon, his upcoming third album RUN sees him now exploring 80s synth vibes with new-found drive and confidence. I had a chat with Charly about the new record ahead of its release: Continue reading
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Happyness – Write InTop Tracks: Charly Coombes – SPX
Singer/songwriter and filmmaker Charly Coombes is back with the latest single from his upcoming third album. Formerly of the 22-20’s, and brother of Supergrass frontman Gaz Coombes, his new track ‘SPX’ follows a synth driven retro 80s sound, but maintaining some of the space age vibes of his 2015 album Black Moon, like music from some alternate future. If you’re looking for the musical lovechild of indie rock and the Stranger Things soundtrack then your prayers are answered! The bare bones video for the single, directed by Charly himself, focuses on the live performance of the track and the passion of the musicians all working together. Taken from his new album RUN, out 24th March, ‘SPX’ is perfect for fans of Mystery Jets, Gunship, LANY and Børns, with its warm and inviting soundscape of cascading electronica.
Top Tracks: Young Earth – Got A Secret
Dublin based band Young Earth are on to a winner with their first new song of the year. ‘Got A Secret’ is a pure-bred indie rock banger, the perfect crowd-pleaser for festivals and clubs alike with its catchy hooks and superb spiralling riffs. It’s one of a dying breed of the iconic noughties sound of bands like Franz Ferdinand and Modest Mouse, a reminder of a time when indie ruled the world. Whether you want upbeat and carefree vibes or heavy, adrenaline fueled overdrive, this track is a must for your latest playlist. Even at this early stage of their career they are very much on their way to being the best Irish band on the indie scene. Young Earth may have a secret, but it’s plain for all to see that the ingredients are all here for something special.
Spotlight!: Tom Lumley
Treading the line between the bright, upbeat melodies of indie rock, and the dark, determined vigour of alternative rock, we find Cambridgeshire based singer/songwriter Tom Lumley. With his debut EP he has carved out his own place, and is set to make his presence known in this hectic and overcrowded scene with his latest tracks. ‘Running From Our Lives’ builds from bluesy beginnings, into the kind of vivid melodies, driving rhythms and frantic solos that put bands like Holy Holy on our radar. ‘Tonight’ has the ideal riffs to get your blood pumping, the jaunty ‘Done My Time’ plays around with a laidback, summery vibe and ‘Open Your Eyes’ features some of the finest guitar work to be found anywhere in the UK’s indie scene right now. Tom still has a way to go, but these tracks still make a damn good first impression. In Tom Lumley we find an artist with a wealth of talent just awaiting that spark, that secret ingredient that will give him the edge and make as many people as possible sit up and pay attention. We have here a real diamond in the rough, and I for one can’t wait to see him shine.
Tom Lumley’s debut EP Dream City is out 6th April, and is ideal for fans of Catfish and the Bottlemen, Spring King, Sundara Karma and The Gaslight Anthem.
Top Tracks: Kris Angelis – Heartbreak is Contagious
The latest single from California based singer/songwriter Kris Angelis is the perfect example of a gold standard acoustic pop hit. The bright energy and infectious melodies make ‘Heartbreak is Contagious’ the kind of warm and inviting song that is difficult to resist. The title track of her upcoming EP, out 2nd June, it deals with the idea that seeing someone’s pain and heartache can start a chain reaction and result in the cracks starting to show, and bring about fresh heartbreak in someone else. To create so much joyful spirit from such a dark topic is no mean feat, but Kris pulls it off. It won’t take long until this song wins you over and has you singing along. In fact, it’s the kind of track that will have you shamelessly singing for weeks to come!
Top Tracks: LAOISE – Halfway
The latest single from upcoming Irish electropop artist LAOISE is a track that seeps its way into the inner workings of your mind. ‘Halfway’ draws you in with its breathy vocals, subtle mystical vibes and bewitching melodies. It’s a song that refuses to be ignored, pulling you in deeper like some siren luring you towards the shore. It’s ethereal atmosphere, somewhere between Halsey and Stevie Nicks, suddenly shifts towards the end of the track into seductive R&B territory, with soulful organ soundscapes and understated funky bass lines. Both of the distinct styles that ‘Halfway’ explores are superbly executed and perfectly matched to produce one of the most gorgeous and engaging singles of the year. If this track is anything to go by, then we can expect great things from this immensely talented Galway girl in the near future.
Top Tracks: Hidden Cabins – Bet It All On You
New Jersey duo Craig Cirinelli and Brian Hofgesang have released their new single, the slow-burning epic ‘Bet It All On You’. Over the course of ten minutes the tension within the track builds from broody folk intro, through to its thrilling cathartic climax. It’s like the soundtrack of some desperate last stand, resolute as the end slowly approaches and storm clouds gather. The song’s dark atmosphere and emotive guitar tones show hints of classic Nick Cave and the powerful vocals towards the end of the track are reminiscent of Maynard James Keenan. Hidden Cabins have managed to build a powerful epic from the simplest of arrangements, which is a feat in itself. The track grows and takes you on a journey, but never outstays it’s welcome.
Belwood Music 