Rosie Oddie & the Odd Squad – 'Cola Coka' (Bloody Awful Poetry, 2008)
Rosie Oddie has been making quite a name for herself in North London. And with this release it is easy to see why – catchy, poppy, melodic and witty, this first release from her is truly different in a scene obsessed with angular haircuts and topshop cardigans.
Produced by Julian Simmons who has previously worked with the Guillemots, this oozes style and glamour, without ever veering into cheese territory. Vocally, Rosie has a gravely style which sets her apart from the mainstream female pop stars and it adds warmth and soul to this song, musically, the Odd Squad work well with a multitude of instruments shining through, perhaps reminiscent of the Guillemots' flare for oddness.
This is a great first single, from someone who has already supported Klaxons, New Young Pony Club, and CSS. We'll be tracking her progress with interest.
MySpace Site | Official Site | Bloody Awful Poetry
Captain Black – 'Sister' (Bumpman, 2008)
Captain Black headlined our third Backstreets night at the Windmill and they were an absolute blast playing an absorbing and lively set. This is their second single on Bumpman records, the label of trendy Camden hangout, the Hawley Arms and the release was delayed due to the terrible fire which destroyed the pub.On first listen, the song fails to live up to their electric live sets, it feels a little bit lacking, the military drums and plinkty plonk piano don’t quite seem to work. But a few listens down the line and I’m finding myself more and more drawn to the folk-rock track with it's breakdown and changes in tempo, it’s definitely a song which grows, yet there’s always a sense that this could and should be better. But then again, what do I know… they were number one in the indie charts in Japan and have played the British Embassy in Berlin. B-side 'Jack Sheppard' is more frentic and perhaps better representative of their live show. Released on June 9th in the UK.
MySpace Site | Bumpman Records | Backstreets III
Idle Lovers – 'Big Impression' (Popgrooves, 2008)
This was released at the end of April. Championed by Phil Jupitus on BBC Radio 6, this single stinks of early Elvis Costello. From his vocal drawl to the poppy, yet refined music, it bears the hallmark of a young Elvis Costello fan. This is pure pop-bliss – catchy, rocky and made for the indie dancefloor. B-Side, 'Heart Condition' is more of the same. Both songs fit perfectly into their 2 and a half minute slots and anymore would be superfluous. Great pop from this Dalston based band who host a regular gig night at the Shakewell Arms. Expect these boys to be all over the radio airwaves soon. There is not a single person who will fail to tap their feet to these songs.
MySpace Site | Popgrooves
The Wireless – ‘He’s So Proud’ (Redemption Records, 2008)
Hailing from North and East London, the band are made up of teenagers. But youth has nothing to do with this. This song is a power-punk rock song with shades of the Enemy coming through. Detailing a former girlfriends new relationship with a rapper, it’s a great song with a dark element added to the mix thanks to the pounding bass lines and slashy guitars.
Fans of the Enemy, Hard-Fi and the like, will find much to appreciate here, others will break a sly smile at the feelings portrayed throughout the song, and no doubt will have lived through similar situations. B-side, ‘The Coward’ is less strong, but there’ enough here to suggest that these teenagers have something and that they may well one day find fame.
MySpace Site | Redemption Records