This week our three guest reviewers take on another five new tracks and give them a spin through the headphones before they then air their opinion on each.
This week's panel: Crysta Lynn, co-founder Jasper Music PR; Radio Plugging; Adam Garwood, lead guitarist with The Extons; Little Indie contributor, Sam Geary.
TOOTHPASTE - TV YEARS
'Minty fresh pop' from new London quartet with their debut single, released August 10. Smooth synths combine with shimmery guitars, and drifting vocals of Amol Prabhu.
Crysta Lynn: It took me a few listens to get hooked. Once there I connected with the vocals and ease of the music. It makes you forget where you were going and realize you've just been sat there listening to a song with a big grin on your face and strangers are staring at you. 4/5
Adam Garwood: Strong debut. Reminds me of the dreamy hazy pop sounds from the likes of Swim Deep and JAWS, but with their own unique signature stamped on it. Looking forward to hearing more! 4/5
Sam Geary: The start promises a lot, though doesn't really lead anywhere. I would call it pleasant, but not a 'wow' track. 3.5/5
Total score: 11.5/15
BAD NERVES - RADIO PUNK
Second single from the East London four-piece, out via National Anthem. Following debut 'Dreaming' from earlier this year, more grimy, power punk played at break-neck speed.
CL: Full of life and lots of fun! 70s sleaze rock topped with rock rawness that makes you want to scream out-loud... except you can't cuz you're on public transit. Great tune! 5/5
AG: This is definitely up my street! Vocals remind of early Oasis, with punchy garage rock vibed guitar riffs. This track is guatanteed to get the crowd moving at a gig! 5/5
SG: An American feel here, and the buzz these guys are starting to create should see a market for them in the US. Great track. 4/5
Total score: 14/15
MOTHERHOOD - SAVE ME
Produced by Sam Winfield (The Amazons, Fickle Friends), the new summer vibed single from the Liverpool four-piece, ahead of their autumn arriving debut EP. Pop essence set around sparkling guitars and a dynamic beat.
CL: You can definitely hear the 'pop sensibility' with this head-bobbing, catchy little diddy. I felt the last half of the song was much more intense - would have been great to hear that all the way through. 3/5
AG: An awesome feelgood summery number, with an unexpected early chorus that drops 30 seconds in that'll instantly get you hooked! 4/5
SG: The vocal here I find a bit irritating, though it does have that pop sound that is currently in vogue. Not really for me though. 3/5
Total score: 10/15
ARCTIC LAKE - FURTHER
Return of the London trio with the first cut from a forthcoming work. Emma Foster's yearning, ethereal vocals are set in a restrained, minimalist production.
CL: Emma's vocals create a visual experience for the listener. With layers of emotion that capture and carry you from beginning to end. As a fan of the dark and sombre I'm looking forward to hearing more from Arctic Lake. 4/5
AG: Beautiful track all round. The piano corresponds so well with the incredibly touching vocals. 4/5
SG: Late night melancholy. This could have you in tears I would imagine, if you're feeling low. Her voice is one of those five star affairs. 4/5
Total score: 12/15
BOYS - WHY WERE YOU ALONE
Latest single of jangly chords and laid-back, dreamy vocals from the London-based four-piece. The third single from their forthcoming 'Dreamland' EP (whose title track we featured as a Hot Pick in July).
CL: It is soothing and quite likeable. The 'Cure-esque' guitar work and the vocals complement one another. I think it could use a bit more guts - that would give it a much bigger sound. 3/5
AG: Dreamy guitar riffs and haunting vocals that'll float round your head for ages after listening. Sit down, close your eyes, and take it all in! 3.5/5
SG: Nice effects at start, nice melodies. Nice. 3.5/5
Total score: 10/15
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