I started writing this review on Saturday, the day after the albums release, and it is only today (Monday) that I feel I can actually write something meaningful and in depth. Music is inevitably created as an art form that makes you feel, and this album definitely does make you feel. Since listening, I have felt incredibly attached, and I have felt emotion beyond believe. I don't really know whether this is because of the love I have for Nick and the personal connection this album creates or because of the cavernous nature of the album. All I really know is that I have had an incredibly tough time finding the words to write this post, to the point were tears have been falling on my keyboard.


I honestly thought that no Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds album could ever top 'A Boatman's Call' but since the release of 'Skeleton Tree' on September 9th my mind is in a different world entirely. I couldn't quite pin point what it is about this album that brings so much life especially in light of such grievance, but then I realised that through the darkness, the mourning and the despair, Nick is still living; he is living in his family, and in his band. His whole word has changed, his music has changed, and I can't help but think that this album will catch us changing with him.

Sometimes, an albums personal meaning can be so intense that it throws the listeners field of vision right out of sync - Skeleton Tree is that album. The Bad Seed’s 16^th studio album comes shortly after the death of Nick’s son, who tragically died last summer, and is simply a masterpiece of love and destruction. Powerful, energetic, emotional, harrowing yet beautifully steady, each track is so fragile and sombre that they continue to remain extremely difficult to listen to, but even harder to turn off. 


"Let us go now, my darling companion/ set out for the distant sky's/ see the sun, see it rising/ see it rising, rising in your eyes" - Distant Sky

Unsurprisingly, we are introduced to a very dark album which allows us to delve into Cave's feelings, and connect with him personally through his journey into a new world, a world of loss and never forgetting. And for those who were lucky enough to watch the albums feature film 'One More Time With Feeling', it is evident that this is the connection Cave wants to develop with his audience as he documents his bereavement.

Carrying on from my last post, in second place, but not really because this is a fucking massive favourite too... its The Clash!

2/3: Stay Free, The Clash - Give Em' Enough Rope

I think this track speaks a lot for itself. Taking it even further back, all the way to 1978, I am starting to actually believe that I am definitely born in the wrong era, but at least I'm 23 and have fucking good music taste, right?

So for me, The Clash are that band that begun it all. I know we had The Rolling Stones and The Beatles, but The Clash introduced something much more special; they were part of the original wave of punk. They were the beginning of a musical serge that influenced a flock of young kids to pick up their guitars and start making music. One of those bands were the Manic Street Preachers.


The 70's was a time of economic austerity, global capitalism and political incorrectness, with the nation lacking in ambition and no interests in the political state. To many, it was noted that the anger wasn't there, as the nation continued to watch their lives reluctantly being controlled by the higher authority. This was until the punk movement, the movement that reconciled everybody regardless of gender, skin colour or age.

When the band signed to CBS to create their 2nd album in 78, with a much better production team behind them, it was obvious the band were going places; especially given that the ever famous London Calling album was to be released the year after. Give Em' Enough Rope jolted the nation in many of ways, with some fans actually complaining that the audio was too clean cut and although the record doesn't quite imitate the same intense energy as The Clash's third album London Calling, it does have a big forceful sound that is nearly as powerful.


Stay Free, track 8, dominates the second half of the LP and it blows me away every time I hear the intro. Written by Mick Jones, it gives a very different perspective to The Clash with its poignant lyrics and Jones' very affecting lead vocals which make you feel happy despite what the lyrics say. And not forgetting those clash guitar moments either.

I will never forget the first time I heard the lyrics 'Go Easy, Step Lightly, Stay Free', those simple lyrics that have somewhat become my life motto.

I've been rummaging around a lot of other music bloggers websites recently trying to find inspiration and well I felt this was one of them mandatory things you should do for your blog readers; except I've started to actually think about it and it is really fucking hard to decide. I knew however that they would obviously come from my 3 favourite bands; Manic Street Preachers, The Clash and Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds.

It is just one week before many of us take to the cinema to sit and watch director Andrew Dominik's feature film 'One More Time With Feeling'. Documenting the production of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds up and coming album 'Skeleton Tree', it is said to be 'a true testament to an artist trying to find his way through the darkness'.


Since Caves son tragically passed away in November 2015, the film is said to have evolved and Dominik is believed to have created something much more substantial and significant than just introducing the album. Having explored the emotion and pain behind the writing and recording of the album the film paints a much darker backdrop.

The feature film is to be aired for one night only, giving fans the chance to hear and delve into 'Skeleton Tree' before its release. Following their latest album 'Push The Sky Away' released in 2013, 'Skeleton Tree' is set for release on 9th September 2016.

Ahead of the screenings, we are invited in early as footage from the film is released. The video for the new track 'Jesus Alone' has been shared across all social media channels giving us the first glance of what will be a truly breath taking album.

Filmed in black and white, it is a great teaser of what is to come, with many describing the track as a 'beautiful masterpiece' and others claiming it to be the 'sound of grieve'. Cave's voice accompanied by the string orchestra screams power and gives you the ability to feel alive; even through the dark times. The lyrics are unusual and ghostly, with the instrumental complimenting every word leaving you mesmerized. Much like beautiful poetry, the emotion is static, leaving you with goosebumps. It is everything you would expect and want from a Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds track.





Skeleton Tree consists of the following track titles:

1. Jesus Alone
2. Rings of Saturn
3. Girl in Amber
4. Magneto
5. Anthrocene
6. I Need You
7. Distant Sky
8. Skeleton Tree

1. 
   

Yesterday, we were all crazed to hear that Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds are about to return, bringing with them not only a new album but also a new feature film to accompany it. 'Skeleton Tree', the album, is out for release on the 9th September, with the feature film 'One More Time With Feeling' being shown at cinemas nationwide for one night only on the 8th September.

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds

The news of the bands return has been lingering for a while now, with many fans anticipating what to expect. I was among the unsure fans, as I felt that due to recent events this could take a very, very emotional turn. But, it's Nick Cave, and he uses his memories, happy or sad, and he turns them into music, not just plain music, but actual music that breaks your heart one minute, then mends it the next. He's a lyrical genius. His creative way with words somehow connects with you on a mental and emotional level, almost as if he knows your entire life story, as if you have sat with him and told him all of your feelings.

And right now, upon reflection of the massive life changing experience Nick has just been through, we feel his pain and his sorrow; which will undoubtedly be visible throughout the feature film and heard throughout the album.




The trailer was released last night (2nd August 2016) and for the first time since the death of his eldest son, who died after falling from a cliff in Brighton last July, we are introduced to Nick and his feelings. Somber, but emotionally engaging it is expected to be an exploration of the frontmans grief. And if there is one thing I do know it is that his speech certainly left us all knowing that this is going to be an extremely fragile experience for us all.

If you haven't heard about this already, prepare to get jealous. I know I would be if i was you, and believe me stood in the queue that night I thought I would be getting sent home the jealous one; but I only fucking went and witnessed The Libertines absolutely blow The Boogaloo pub apart. 

The Boogaloo pub - High Gate

ALL FOR ONE, described by most as the "anthem of the summer" instantly became that song that you can never turn off. However, that was not the case for some who felt it didn't live up to the real Roses  sound. But I ask, isn't that the point? After all it has been 21 years since their last release, it's time for change.

To me, All For One, is refreshing. Its engaging, authentic and a bloody masterpiece. It commences a fresh chapter in the bands history. To the people bombing it for its not so interesting lyrics, I agree they are hardly Sally Cinnamon but the grinding riffs and Squires dangerous solo introduce that anthemic appeal that is such a catch you sort of don't mind the lack of lyrical genius. Plus these lyrics are very much in vein of the classic roses songs anyway.

Lets be honest this is one made for those fields this summer. To be played loud, and to a crowd. People will want to dance and I think that's exactly what it is going to let them do.



My only let down, the song length. The song finishes too early for me, and it seems Ian could have added another verse to hook us a little longer. But hey! this is their opening single so if that is anything to go by after 21 years I can only imagine that the rest of the album is going to be ace!


That sunny day when I saw the flight cases, and days later when I eventually got to meet Ian and Mani sparked a social media flare in light of new material. Ian told me that we would be hearing lots of new material at Etihad in June, which suggests more than the one song.

With only one month to go until the Etihad gigs, will we be hearing anymore of the new album before then? Who knows, keep your ears open because I'm sure another hit is bound to drop any time soon.

With Glastonbury riding in on us without much notice, today I wanted to give all you like minded mud lovers my take on the festival. I first attend Glastonbury in 2008, and at the young age of 15, I instantly knew this was my favourite place in the world.


Unable to get tickets this year, I am secretly hoping NME send me to get some cracking stories behind the scenes (a girl can dream). But I have to somehow come to terms with the fact that this post isn't for me, it's for you, and if this is the first time you're visiting Glastonbury, believe me, it's the best discovery you'll find! Whether it be the magical comfort of Strummerville that ticks it for you, or the surreal, secretive and very rude rabbit hole, there is something for everyone and actually, you'll be surprised by how much your opinions of different area's changes throughout the week/end.

I have made a list of my top 3 areas of Glastonbury, that's if you can have a top 3, I mean this was very difficult for me to make a decision on because even I love the huge unicorn playground in the kidzfield...but here it goes. My top 3.


1. Strummerville

Nestled into some beautiful Greenland overlooking the whole site, The Joe Strummer Foundation have set up camp (literally) in the most idyllic area of Glastonbury. Perfect for those summer days lounging around, drinking beer, listening to some ace music and remembering Joe, of course!

A charity that is extremely close to my heart, I visit Strummerville every single day of the festival. Whether that be to relax after partying too hard or to just get the party started. Sometimes I just go up there purely for the view, which is breath-taking. So if you get the chance, in fact, no, please make this your priority to go check out this year - there is nothing not to like.



(You can find out more about The Joe Strummer Foundation here)


2. Shangri-la

This area is born out of originality, creativity, truth, and lies. A magical and mystical other-world pops up every year and summons in all the campers that are fascinated by alternative ideologies. Never been before? well, get ready for the new movement!


An empowerment through art, music and unity, we are being educated in the understand that people have lost their voice amongst the deceit and distractions of the mainstream media. People want the revolution, people want freedom and in Shangri-La the people's voices are being heard louder than ever before.

I've decided to purposely not write much about Shangri-La's best kept secrets because those secrets are best witnessed live.

3. Pyramid Stage

I think this area is pretty self-explanatory. You could say this is the most famous stage in the world having homed huge artists from David Bowie to Beyonce. Going in 2016? Get ready to watch Adele, Coldplay, and Muse amongst many other artists take to the pyramid. And don't forget to get there early for the Sunday Legends slot.



 4. The Rabbit Hole


Oops, I accidently added a fourth area, purely because the rabbit hole is the most amazing find. Every festival should have a rabbit hole, a secret dreamscape where you can let your imaginations run wild. Make it your must to find the psychedelic tunnel that welcomes you to live music and Dj's. Grab a delicious tipple from the bar and be prepared because from here there's no going back... who know's you might even bump into Alice in wonderland on the way.



*All photos were taken by Stevie. 

This bromance is one not to be missed - as duo Alex Turner and Miles Kane take to the studio again to create a sensation for our ears. 'Everything that you've come to expect' is the lads 2nd album and to me this Cali inspired confection proves not only that Miles and Alex are both geniuses but sexy geniuses as their voices bless us with a beautiful soft whisper making them sound even sexier than ever before.



8 years on from 'The Age Of The Understatement', with 5 AM albums behind him Alex is now noticeably known for being one of the biggest rock stars in the world. Up there with Mick Jagger and Ronnie Wood I think I can confirm that the Arctic Monkeys are the Rolling Stone's of my generation. Miles on the other hand has being killing it solo whilst quite obviously supporting his rock and roll best friend at the 2 day AM Finsbury Park extravaganza. 8 years on and these once shaggy haired 22 year old's have descended into a rock and roll atmosphere with nail biting guitar riffs and infectiously charming lyrics.





Once walking through an eerie lit street playing guitar and portraying a mysterious image, Alex and Miles have now grown not only into men but into a definition of cool and electrifying. presenting themselves as seductive gods of rock. And I for one am not complaining. Confidently presenting us with their first track off the album, single 'Bad Habits' went down a storm, creating a hurricane of excitement for TLSP fans who took to social media to express how "fucking awesome" it is. Not only the track but the video is everything and more. Subtle use of colours such as red and blue help enhance the creepy romance story behind the song. Kane is lead, whilst Turner pleases us with his impressive hip movements looking too slick to be true.

Upon album release, unsure of what to expect, I soon realised that this was it, this is my album of the year. No doubt. Tunes such as everything that you've come to expect and Aviation are obvious favorites however recently I find myself hitting repeat when listening to Sweet Dreams, TN and Miracle Aligner.


An album for everyone's ear, indulge yourselves in a magical masterpiece... you won't want to turn it off, I promise!

It is with such a heavy heart that I am posting another devastating legend story on my page. Within a few short months from the deaths of Lemmy, David Bowie and Viola beach we hear of the passing of Prince.



A iconic figure to many, Prince died yesterday at the young age of 57. After being taken ill from his private jet he was soon back on stage reassuring his fans that it was just the flu, only to be found dead at his home in later days. He defined the sound of the 80's after becoming famously renown for tracks such as Purple Rain and Kiss. Prince stormed the music industry to fight for creative freedom.  R&B, Funk, Rock n Roll, Prince did it all. He was electrifying, he was dazzling, a magnificent spirit.

Devastated to say the least, the band in the sky is looking pretty ace right now. Upon hearing of his death I came to terms with the ideology of dying, I mean if dying was scary before it isn't anymore. I want to be up there with these heroes, those musical legends.


Last night in the mist of everything I stumbled upon a fucking beautiful video of Prince covering Bowie's 'Heroes'. A masterpiece of pure bliss, listen below. I can only imagine the music those two are creating right now.

Being from Sheffield, I always remember this moment as being such an iconic speech that blasted the Arctic Monkeys into a whirlwind on social media. Sending the world into wild debates and opinionated social media battles nobody could get their heads around Turners witty and unusual way with words.




Upon collecting their prestigious award for 'Best Album' at the 2014 Brit Awards, the Arctic Monkey's saw their charming, rock n roll front man take center stage once again to provide the nation with his beliefs behind the album, stating that 'rock n roll will never die'. The speech complimented his quirky hair style, 50's rock fashion sense and mysterious yet absolutely god damn gorgeous personality which subsequently saw most of the population take to Facebook and twitter naming Alex a 'living legend' and describing his actions to be literally the most rock n roll thing they have ever seen. However, not all watchers that tuned in to witness Alex's speech thought he stole the night. Critics turned on him accusing him of being 'pretentious', a 'tool' and an overall embarrassment but do you really think those harsh words would ever stop Turner? 

My guess is no. His talk of sludge and a 'cynical nature of the universe' may come across as arrogant but he is setting an image for himself (and it worked). Alex no longer wants to be known for his indie, long fringed, 17 year old self when he first took to the scene, it has been 10 years and with the last album edging on electronic rock n roll his image has become somewhat, well, amazing! His 50's look and Elvis/Richard Hawley like hair style is what every girl wants in a guy and what every guy wants to be. 

The Brits aren't about great music, they're are about popular music, which is why we have to put up with the likes of Bastille, Ellie Goulding, Disclousure etc. So, is receiving a Brit award the most un-rock-and-roll achievement out there? Who knows? I think Alex Turner certainly thinks so.

Turner eventually defended his controversial speech by saying:

'Wonderful as it is to be acknowledged, I don't necessarily think the talent, or how good a group of musicians is, is directly shown by their trophy cabinet. That's not meant as a downer -  it's a pleasure to be mentioned alongside great people.' 

It's taken me weeks to write this post... maybe I was just too shocked and shaken by the whole experience I completely forgot to tell you all about - I met The Stone Roses!


Ian (Brown) - I like to just say Ian because it sounds more like I know him personally which I do now of course- was stood outside my flat and I have never ran so fast in all my life. I looked like a right nutter as I turned up with no shoes on shaking a phone in his face. At first I only saw the back of his head so I would have felt like a right idiot if it'd not been him but lucky for me it was and he was amazing! Ian and bassist Mani where both what I can only describe as real musicians who showed me that they are really there for their fans after he waited for me to nip back to my flat to grab my vinyl for him to sign. I was shaking so badly I couldn’t believe this was happening, Ian even asked me if I was okay in which I told him this was the greatest moment of my life.

I couldn't resist asking him whether he saw my tweet and to my surprise he said " Yeah, it was you that let the cat out of the bag". As you can imagine I giggled and wanted to cry at the thought of Ian recognising me. And honestly when I got back to my flat I did cry... a lot (whilst staring at my signed photo and record).






I am absolutely gobsmacked at how much this story blew up! Since announcing to the world via Twitter that they were recording my phone has turned into a hotline with people constantly emailing me wanting the inside story. I got to say though being the first person to be told by Ian himself that the band recording new material is insane. With the band being so notoriously secretive it gave me great pleasure to get the word out first, I mean come on... this will go down in the history books, right?

Eager to hear their new material I am counting down the days until I go watch them live at Etihad Stadium in June. I've got a funny feeling that this gig will be one to always remember but until then I'll give their record a spin, stare at their autographs and pray for another meet and greet in the future.