Ever been to a music gig? Want to go again? Want to know who is worth seeing?
Music gigs and festivals is a blog dedicated to telling you where and when the coolest bands are playing in NY and the UK. In addition to this I will also be sharing reviews about gigs and festivals I have attended which are definitely worth checking out.
Joseph Arthur is an American singer/songwriter from Ohio. This hugely popular artist is known for his "poetic lyrics with a layered sonic palette."
I first came across Joseph Arthur when his song Honey and the Moon was featured in an episode of The OC many years ago. As an artist who is known for his constant touring, Joseph Arthur has written an impressive collection of singles. To date he has released 11 EPs and nine studio albums, the most recent being the double album "Redemption City." One of his singles - In the Sun - has been remixed by Justin Timberlake, and covered by Michael Stipe and Chris Martin.
Joseph has a raw yet soothing voice that compliments his poetic lyrics perfectly. Not one to strum his guitar and sing about the heartbreak of love, Joseph Arthur creates music that covers everything. In addition to this, Joseph Arthur is not afraid to mix it up - experimenting soft melodies, with alternative beats/ electronics.
In terms of live reviews, Joseph Arthur rarely receives criticism. An exceptional artist who rarely sings a wrong note, Joseph Arthur always seems to leave his crowds feeling deeply satisfied.
Similar artists to Joseph Arthur include: Joe Purdy, Pete Yorn, Alexi Murdoch and Matthew Ryan.
On Friday 6th May I was fortunate enough to get hold of a ticket to see the Airborne Toxic Event live in NYC.
For more general info about this band click on the link.
I have to start by saying - I have never been to a gig quite like it. The band played at the Town Hall in NYC, and the layout was just like a theater. The band performed on the stage and the crowd were all seated in stalls - I was seated up on the balcony. Not only was everyone seated, alcohol was banned and the use of flash light photography and video was prohibited. With all these factors it definitely made it the most respectable gig I have attended (by far!).
The format of the gig was very good. There was no support band, just Airborne Toxic Event doing their thing. The gig was separated into two halves, with a fifteen minute interval between each part. For the first half the band performed their songs acoustically, and for the second half they played their more popular songs while rocking out on their electric guitars.
Airborne Toxic Event definitely had the crowd going wild after their amazing performances of "Sometime Around Midnight" and "Changing." Although all the members of Airborne Toxic were great, the lead singer Mikel Jolllet certainly stood out. He had great charisma and at one point even ran into the crowd while singing.
Despite the crowd being seated, by the end the majority were standing and singing along. The finale was fantastic - a strong performance of innocence left the entire audience wanting to hear more.
If you get the chance to see them, do it!
Tour Dates:
12th May. Susquehanna Bank Center - Camden, NJ
One word: Folktronica. No one mixes electronics with folk like this woman.
Beth Orton is a british singer/songwriter from Norfolk. Although it wasn't until 1996 that Orton got noticed, she has been around since 1993. To date Beth has released six albums: Superpinkymandy, Trailer Park, Central Reservation, Daybreaker, Comfort of Strangers, and the recently released Sugaring Season.
Beth songs are frequently played on hit american shows such as Greys Anatomy, Charmed, Dawson Creek, and Vanilla Sky. If music by Martha Wainwright, Cat Power and Natalie Merchant are your thing, than you should check out Beth Orton.
As well as her folk/eletcontric songs, Beth Orton is instantly recognisable by her vocals. Her gravely/ husky vocals not only work on the more emotive, slow songs, but also on the meow upbeat dance orientated sounds.
Her performances are pretty stripped: Beth doing her thing, with only the accompaniment of one of two guitarists behind her. This simple format however works perfectly for the type of music she writes. She has great rapport with her crowds and often leaves them pretty awe-inspired.
Tour dates:
6th April. The Junction - Cambridge
8th April. Newcastle Volvo Tyne Theatre - Newcastle Upon Tyne
9th April. The Liquid Room - Edinburgh
10th April. Leeds Irish Centre - Leeds
12th April. The Kazimier - Liverpool
13th April. O2 Academy - Oxford
15th April. St George's Bristol - Bristol
16th April. Wedgewood Rooms - Southsea
17th April. Royal Festival Hall - London
I am confident you have heard of this band but just in case; Stereophonics are an alternative rock band from Wales that have been around for years! To date they have released eight studio albums and recorded many hit singles, including "Dakota," "Have a Nice Day," and "Devil."
First hitting the music scene in 1997, it comes as no surprise that Stereophonics are a well practiced live band! Described as "classic rock delivered with whiskey vocals," lead singer Kelly Jones is a hugely talented guy. Over the years the boys have performed on a number of great stages (the BRIT Awards), and in front of huge crowds (V Festival, Glastonbury, Hyde Park and T in the Park).
Ben Haggerty is an american rapper from Seattle who goes by the name Macklemore. Collaborating with producer Ryan Lewis, Macklemore has built up quite the following.
His last single "Thrift Shop" was a huge hit, topping both the UK and US singles charts, and receiving more than 180milion hits on youtube.
As a solo artist Macklemore has released a mixtape, three EPs and an album "The Language of My World." Together Macklemore and Ryan Lewis have released the hugely popular album "The Heist."
Macklemore has battled with a number of demons throughout his life, the most prominent being drugs. In 2008 Macklemore cleaned up, and it was during this time that he began his collaboration with Ryan Lewis. These difficulties with drugs and addiction are apparent in Macklemores and Ryan Lewis music. His songs are raw and extremely honest, a perfect example being "Starting Over" which is about his relapse in 2011.
Im a huge fan of Macklemore and Ryan Lewis work and would strongly urge you to check them out if you have not done so already.
Tour dates:
28th April. Gordon Field House, Rochester Institute of Technology - NY
18th May. Plaza Green at iPlay America - NJ
19th May. Plaza Green at iPlay America - NJ
27th May. O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire - London, UK
11th July. Indian Lookout Country Club Ga - NY
Tegan and Sara Quin are twin sisters that together make up the indie rock band, Tegan and Sara. Both insanely talented, this canadian duo are well worth checking out. Not only do they have great voices, but they write all their own songs and play both the keyboard and the guitar.
I first came across this pair when their music got featured in a number of Greys Anatomy and One Tree Hill episodes. They have to date released a staggering five albums; "Under Feet Like Ours," "This Business of Art," "If It Was You," "So Jealous," "The Con," "Sainthood," and are soon to be releasing a sixth album "Heartthrob" (January 29, 2013). The first single from the new album is called "Closer" and was released on the 25th September of this year.
Although these two are known for their on stage banter, I have to disagree and say how awkward I felt they were. I was fortunate enough to see Tegan and Sara at Glastonbury Music festival a couple of years ago. I was surprised, considering how relatively unknown they are here in the UK, how many came to watch their set. I really loved them live. Both of the girls have incredibly unique voices which make them instantly recognisable. Singing with great emotion and energy, these girls killed it.
Like mentioned before however the duo did seem really awkward between tracks - frequently just going back to the safe "thank you for coming" line. Despite this however, these girls have done a ton of touring since then, supporting for the likes of Ben Fold, The Pretenders, Death Cab for Cutie, and Ryan Adams. They have just supported the Black Keys during their 2012 US tour, and will be the support acts for the upcoming Killers tour.
A great show. Seriously, check them out.
Tour Dates:
14th May. Madison Square Gardens - NYC
19th May. Susquehanna Bank Center - Camden, NJ
8th June. Ritz Manchester - Manchester, UK
9th June. O2 ABC - Glasgow, UK
11th June. Troxy - London, UK
12th June. HMV Institute - Birmingham, UK
(Supporting Fun.)
13th July. Constellation Brands Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center - NY,
22nd July. Hudson River Park - NY
23rd July. Hudson River Park - NY
This Welsh indie pop singer/ songwriter is certainly one to watch out for! Marina and the Diamonds was first noticed after coming second in the BBC Sound poll list in 2010. Her stage name, Marina and the Diamonds, comes from the lead singers full name, Marina Diamandis, and the Greek translation of her last name. When asked, Marina replies, "I'm Marina. You are the diamonds."
In 2010, Marina and the Diamonds released her debut album "The Family Jewels" which went to number five in the UK album charts. Her second album "Electra Heart," which includes the singles "Rdioactive" and "Jealousy," was released in April this year and went straight to No.1 in the UK charts.
Despite Marina's deep vocals, it seems her unique fashion sense gets her more noticed. When asked, Marina describes her style to be a mix of "vintage, cheerleader and cartoon."
Since hitting the music scene, Marina has been touring around and promoting her album. She has had many successful performances including the Isle of Wight Festival, Glastonbury Festival and Leeds Festival. After the success of their "Family Jewels Tour," Marina and the Diamonds are certainly a band you should check out.
Tour Dates
29th May. Rumsey Playfield, Central Park - NYC
I have previously posted about this band: Maps & Atlases.
On 6th March I was fortunate enough to see Maps & Atlases live at Dingwalls, Camden in London.
Supporting Maps & Atlases was The Physics House Band.
The set list for Maps & Atlases was: Pigeon, Winter, Artichokes, Old & Gray, Remote & Dark Years, Will, The Charm, Old Ash, If This is, Was, Everybody Wants to Rule the World, Silver Self, Living Decorations, Fever, Solid Ground. Their encore consisted of: Daily News.
In terms of comparing this gig with others that I have been to I would have to give it an average score of 6/7. For me there were times when Erin Elders, Shiraz Dada, Chris Hainey and Dave Davison seemed to struggle to capture and hold the full attention of the crowd. Also the performances of their tracks just didn't seem to construe the true excellence that their tracks boast on record.
Despite my slight disappointment however I still had a great night of live music. When Maps & Atlases performed their single, "Silver Self" the crowd kicked into action and went positively crazy. In addition to this I thoroughly enjoyed their fantastic cover of "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears For Fears.
Overall despite my initial disappointment of Maps & Atlases failing to live up to their full potential and my expectations, I still had a lot of fun. By the end of the night the sell out crowd seemed to be pleased and so I would say if you are a fan than definitely give them a go.
This british indie band is formed of Jeremy Pritchard, Jonathan Higgs, Michael Spearman and Alex Robertshaw. Despite hitting the music scene in 2007, it wasn't until 2010 when they were nominated for the BBCs Sound of 2010 poll, did the boys get their first big break. Although not featuring in the top five of the poll, Everything Everything were very successful in using this as a platform to get their name and music out there. Later that year, the boys released their much hyped about debut album "Man Alive."
After the release of "cough cough" and the more recent "kemosabe," Everything Everything have announced they will be releasing their second album "Arc" on 14th January.
Lead singer Jonathan Higgs has such a distinct and individual voice it is impossible to mistake Everything Everything with other indie bands currently featuring in the charts.
Although I am pretty keen on this band, in terms of live performances they haven't received the best reviews. Even though their music is anything but standard, with catchy offbeat rhytthms and jerky beats, their performances have apparently lacked energy and confidence. I would say however that from the early days of 2010 when they released their first album, to the band they are now, there is certainly a noticeable difference. Their music has become a lot less chaotic and much more listener friendly - watch the gap, there are going to be a lot of more crowd pleasing singles coming our way soon. As for their overall performances, touring alongside Snow Patrol is surely going to help anyone find their performance style!
Give them a chance ...these boys have not peaked yet and believe me, when they do you will want to be there!
Tour Dates:
22nd March. Brooklyn Bowl - Brooklyn, NY
25th March. The bowery Ballroom - NYC
2nd May. Liverpool Sound City Festival 2013 - Liverpool
3rd May. Live at Leeds 2013 - Leeds, UK
25th May. Victoria Park - London, UK
8th June. The Parklife Weekender 2013 - Manchester, UK
11th July. T In The Park - Glenrothes, UK
13th Sept. Festival No.6 2013 - Portmeirion, UK
4th Oct. Newcastle O2 Academy - Newcastle, UK
11th Oct. Manchester Ritz - Manchester, UK
13th Oct. Liverpool O2 Academy - Liverpool, UK
15th Oct. Bristol O2 Academy - Bristol, UK
16th Oct. Portsmouth Pyramid - Portsmouth, UK
17th Oct. Cardiff University - Cardiff, UK
18th Oct. Birmingham Institute - Birmingham, UK
20th Oct. Norwich UEA - Norwich, UK
21st Oct. Nottingham Rock City - Nottingham, UK
22nd Oct. Sheffield O2 Academy - Sheffield, UK
24th Oct. London Forum - London, UK
Lauren Aquilina is a seventeen year old singer/songwriter from Berkshire, UK. Half british and half Matlese, this young girl is proving to be very popular. Her debut single Fools, which she self released, has already become a hit in Malta - reaching number 1 in the iTunes charts.
When listening to Lauren Aquilina I am very much reminded of Daughter. Her soft and (at times) haunting voice matches the beauty and emotion that Elena Tonra is able to produce through her music. It is clear from her style and material that the likes of Ellie Goulding, Sara Bareilles and Laura Marling have been strong influences in her own musical development.
I would check this one out - it wont be long before she is a frequent play on the radio.
Tour Dates:
5th September. The Fleece - Bristol
6th September. Sound Control - Manchester
7th September. Beanscene - Glasgow
8th September. University of northumbria - Newcastle Upon Tyne
10th September. The Cockpit - Leeds
11th September. HMV Institute - Birmingham
12th September. The Borderline - London
I first came across King Charles when he supported Mumford and Sons in NYC a few years ago. After seeing him perform live I was an instant fan. During his set I was particularly impressed with the performance of his single "Love Lust." Also that night King Charles accompanied Mumford and Sons during their fantastic encore performance of "Lady of the River." This talented artist not only can sing but can play the guitar, piano and cello.
Charles who is referred mostly by his stage name, King Charles, first went on tour in 2008 with Noah and the Whale, and Laura Marling. He has received quite the fan base over the years, and from my own experience I can say you won't be left bored. Not one to easily forget, with his wild mess/beehive hair do, handlebar moustache and old school quirky attire, this vibrant singer will have you tapping your foot to the beat by the end of his shows.
Tour dates:
1st April. Rescue Rooms - Nottingham
2nd April. Colchester Art Centre - Colchester
3rd April. o2 Academy - Leicester
4th April. Waterfront - Norwich
5th April. Central Station - Wrexham
6th April. The Sugarmill - Stoke-On-Trent
7th April. Slade Rooms - Wolverhampton
8th April. The Kazimier - Liverpool
9th April. Leopard - Doncaster
There is nothing wrong with a bit of old school. I truly love this band.
Although this Brisith-American rock band first got together in 1967, it has by no means been a smooth and happy ride. This group has gone through everything including number one hits, sell out tours, solo careers, divorces, break ups and fights.
Despite their rocky track record there is no question however this band is amazing. Their top hits include Rhiannon, Landslide, Dreams, Go Your Own Way, Chains and Tell Me Lies.
Recently Stevie Nicks announced that Fleetwood Mac would be getting back together once again and touring in 2012. In addition to this, there are rumours that another album will be released.
To date, Fleetwood Mac have released over twenty albums. "The Dance," being their reunion album, was released in 1997 and their most recent album, "Say You Will," was released in 2003. Although their are many albums, the groups' members have changed constantly over the years.
John McVie and Mick Fleetwood have been the most constant members in the band, being present for practically the entire Fleetwood Mac journey. The lead vocalists Christine McVie and Stevie Nicks are the next prominant members in the group, however Christine left the band in the 90s and has yet to announce whether she will be re-joining the other members for the tour in 2012. Today Fleetwood Mac consists of John McVie, Mick Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham.
Although they have had their fair share of ups and downs this band is full of great muscians, and would be truely awesome to see live. I will certainly be trying to get tickets to their tour - but a hint to you all - buy tickets as soon as they are released as their 2009 tour tickets sold out in just twelve minutes.
Tour dates:
8th April. Madison Square Garden - NYC
24th April. Prudential Center - Newark, NJ
24th Sept. The O2 Arena - London
29th Sept. LG Arena - Birmingham
1st Oct. Manchester Arena - Manchester
If electronic music is your thing than you HAVE to check this guy out.
Gold Panda (real name Derwin Panda) is a musical composer, performer and producer from London, UK. I first came across this artist when his single Trust was played on Radio 1.
Despite signing with a record label in 2010, Gold Panda has yet to make it mainstream. In 2010 he released his debut album "Lucky Shiner" which in 2011 won him "The Guardian First album award for the best debut." As for this year, Gold Panda has so far released an EP, "Trust."
In terms of performances this guy is one cool dude. Wearing a hoodie, Gold Panda lets his music do the talking. While many have been put off by his seemingly disengaging stage presence, others have looked beyond this and enjoyed the sublime music that he so effortlessly creates.
Word to the wiser however this type of music is not for everyone, and so as much as I and many others love it, this wont be everyones cup of tea. Saying that, I do urge you to keep an open mind when hearing this, as Gold Panda really does create the most exquisite mixes and sounds (Like Totally).
Tour Dates:
11th May. Knitting Factory - Brooklyn, NY
12th June. Electric Brixton - London, UK
This indie band certainly lived up to all expectations.
I have been a fan of Of Monsters and Men for a long time and so knowing I had secured a ticket to their sold out gig in Birmingham made me ecstatic! (See previous post for more info about the band: Info)
Being a band full of individuals who can play an array of instruments, it came as little surprise that their music live was even more incredible than when hearing it on cd. With this ability, Of Monsters and Men are able to combine their diverse skill set to produce and deliver songs that just keep the crowd wanting to hear more. The evenings set list mostly consisted of singles from their debut album "My Head is an Animal" - although they did perform a very good cover of Skeletons by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.
One thing I did find ever so slightly disappointing was the lack of 'oomph' Nanna Himarsdottir and Ragnar Porhallsson seemed to have. Despite their impressive singing and continual chat with the audience, I felt they were just going through the motions. Dont get me wrong it was still a great gig and I thoroughly enjoyed myself; but comparing them to the likes of Mumford & Sons and Editors, I would say they came up slightly short.
But anyway, enough of the negatives - with the combined effort from all (5) members the entire venue was soon filled with singing and clapping (see pic below). This gig definitely had a great atmosphere, and I would certainly recommend everyone to see them.
Tour dates:
3rd March. Norwich UEA - Norwich, UK
5th March. O2 Sheoherd's Bush Empire - London, UK
6th March. 02 Shepherd's Bush Empire - London, UK
7th March. O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire - London, UK
7th June. The Governors Ball Music - NYC
2nd July. 02 Academy - Bournemouth, UK
3rd July. De La Warr Pavilion - Bexhill-On-Sea, UK
11th July. T in The Park - UK
17-18th August. V Festival - UK.
