Louellen Breakout for the Maldives

Find my original article on Double Dance here

In a sticky Islington, bright new stars Louellen prepare to weave their twinkly, indie magic over an intimate, well turned out crowd.

The night aimed to showcase exciting new UK talent at the O2 Academy, the reward for one lucky band is a place in the final to headline at a Moldavian gig and a single released in Asia - not too shabby by any means.


Our Southern lads were on second, and with a small amount of gigs under their proverbial belt, they were ready to prove that new doesn't mean inexperienced but instead, compellingly fresh and exciting.

After a few technical hitches (through no fault of their own) the boys picked up pace and treated us to some well-executed, enigmatic tracks. Looking around, fellow skinny jean wearing boys and girls tapped toes in time and seemed fully immersed in Louellen's sound. Often being taken by surprise with the sudden burst of energy that appeared to come like shots from the dark, then pulling back on the reigns to display their full musical spectrum. An obvious favourite, and one which I'm sure will stylishly adorn the radio in the not so distant future was 'Bright Paint on a White Wall', emphasising frontman Christian's delicately fierce vocal.

On the rise: Clare Maguire

My original post for Double Dance can be found here

Trying to find information on a lady who seems to be eagerly anticipated yet very much under-wraps is extremely hard.

A single eery track of just over 60 seconds in length greets you when you enter Clare Maguire into your address bar. The chilling Are You Ready? is clearly going to be the calm before the storm for this Brummy lass, before she is catapulted forward like her Universal Records counterpart Miss Winehouse. Are You Ready? is pumping up the anticipation meter and clearly asking the British, siren loving public to brace themselves for another great success story. This mysterious misses, doesn't even have any official photos, a mere ten or so live shots weave through Google Images. Maybe she wants her audience to appreciate the powerful presence of her music, or maybe it's cleverly enticing a host of blogger types to increase the aforementioned anticipation meter.

If you're as enticed as I was, a free download can be found, available through her website and I can only hope it's released officially. Strangest Thing is hauntingly deep, yet softly peaceful, like Bat For Lashes colliding with Annie Lennox, spiraling into Norah Jones giving the hair on the back of your neck a tingly treat. Her song matter seems far wiser beyond her years, at only 21 I hope she isn't over-sold and exhausted before having the chance to really enjoy the journey that she definitely deserves.

On the rise: Muchuu

Find the original article on Double Dance here

If, like me, a quirky band name increases your heart rhythm and your ears prick up in excitement then let me introduce you to the unusually named Muchuu.

Probably not the best band name to use in a game of Hangman but probably the cutest band to listen to this summer. Muchuu ('moo-chew') which is the direct translation of 'dream' in Japanese are a brother and sister glittery-pop outfit hailing from Hereford, UK. The two play their very separate parts; Milky is the twee-indie vocalist whilst brother George is the techy, music master. There is no doubting the oriental inspirations in the majority of the tracks on debut album 'Adventure We Go' is proof that these two are fully-fledged musical explorers starting to make their mark on the indie-electro pop world. Each song has bundles of character and grabs you with two arms for closer inspection of all the experimental elements it boasts. You'll love Muchuu if you adore being completely immersed in a daydreamy state and yearn for long summery drives through country fields--the two aren't advised to take together. I caught up with the pair to discuss afros, unusual sound bites, disturbing dreams and general Muchuu magic.

You're brother and sister outfit, please tell me that you have Jackson 5 esq routines?

George: Unfortunately, no. I'd like to have an afro though.
Milky: We used dance around in the lounge and put on plays when we were little, to entertain our parents...but that's as far as it goes with dance routines!

Seriously though, how do you not end up tearing each others hair out after spending so much time together?

Milky: Well we do annoy each other slightly sometimes, but only slightly. In general we get on pretty well. We have quite different personalities but when were making music and practicing and gigging we kind of forget about that and just have fun. George: Yeah, we've got past the arguing thing. Just about.

Your music is often created by using various objects that you come across, what's the oddest thing you've used?

Milky: A ladder. And a digital camera zoom.
George: We also slammed a door a good few times to get the right door slam sound. That was pretty weird.

The music you write is about dreams and escapism, what kind of dreams do you have for yourselves?

Milky: I usually have rather strange and disturbing dreams. They're often just so odd and confusing I can't explain them! Sometimes I feel odd for the rest of the day...but sometimes they're really cool, like a mini movie in my head. As for my dreams for my future, I'd love to visit Japan and other cool countries, spread Muchuu music all over place and for people to really enjoy our album, move into my own little house and buy a pet pug!
George: I can see the future in my dreams. In terms of aspirations, I'd like to keep making different music, away from the boring clichéd music that is around now about sex and money and meaningless stuff just to profit people. Wow, I wasn't expecting to produce such a political answer.

You're playing Bestival this year, will you be partaking in the fancy dress parade? The fantasy theme is perfect for Muchuu surely?

Milky: Yeah I heard about this, I need to get something sorted, sounds fun, I don't often get the chance for fancy dress! So many options...a mermaid might be cool or just a big ball of glittery magic and cover myself in sequins and stickers. Or something out of the Neverending Story. Or Chii from Chobits...
George: Really? I didn't know about the fancy dress parade. In that case I'll get my giant dragon costume out. It takes 300 people to operate it.

It's clear from the sound of the album, not to mention the title, that you've had a lots of escapades, how do you put these inspirations into song?

George: I guess I try and show the inspirations musically. Milky is the lyrical one though. I've contributed in the past with a couple of sentences. So proud of myself.
Milky: Well I just jot down things that pop into my head when I'm out and about, or just sitting and thinking. I scribble ideas and lyrics down in my notepad or on my phone, then merge them all together to fit a song. I also love to experiment with different sounds to suit the mood or subject of the song. It's such a good feeling when it all comes together and the music really shows how I was feeling or what I was writing about!

With the first album out, what's next for Milky and George?

Milky: We really hope people like the first album, and that lots of people get to hear it and we get to continue gigging all over the place, including gigs overseas. We're already writing songs for the second album, which I'm also excited about.
George: We'll just have faith and see where the music takes us. We can't help writing more songs, so that will probably continue forever.

The album 'Adventure We Go' will be available for digital download and in stores August 31st. My favourite tracks include 'Somebody Tell Me', 'Dancing With a Ghost' and 'Patchwork'.

Ellie Goulding & Tinie Tempah Review for MTV (Feb 2010)

I've been meaning to add this to AV for some weeks now, but haven't had the chance. I got the chance to see Miss Goulding and Tinie Tempah in a very packed Dingwalls, Camden back in February. The lovely people at MTV put up my review for all to see. If you haven't then it's below for ya'll.

Dingwalls in Camden was the backdrop for Thursday night's 10 For 10 gig courtesy of MTV, the aim was to fuse together the best new UK talent for 2010. What a beautiful blend they were; London's trooper Tinie Tempah and Herefordshire's golden girl of the moment Ellie Goulding.

Tinie Tempah brought together every type of music I lust after and wrapped it in a bow of exuberance. I've never before seen rock, electro, dub, hip hop, grime and soulful vocals fused together so effortlessly. His slight air of cockyness was just and his honesty profound, in one breath claiming “it's hard to make electro sound good live” and in the next praising himself entirely. Prominent track 'Pass Out' is a complete credit to his obvious hard work and determination, his performance was fresh and gutsy, with definite similarities to Dizzee and Whiley. He made a lot of fans on Thursday night, many of them, like me never thought they'd be so in tune with his swagger and pure stage presence. He broke down that invisible screen that so many artists place at the front of the stage, inviting his audience to get well and truly involved.

As for Ellie, where do I start? She encapsulated the whole audience, I was completely mesmerised by her stunning array of melodies. On the brief chance that I had to break my gaze and look around I could see that everyone was being sprinkled with Gouldust, feeling rich and inspired by this soft yet strong young lady. There's always a part of me that gets nervous when I see an artist live for the first time, will they live up to the hype? Will they hold those mind blowing notes? In essence will the song still give you that same special feeling it did when it first entered your life? Ellie proved her worth one hundred times over. Starting with her less known collection of tunes she held her own, her confidence was mature and Ellie's simple yet cleverly strung together words are wise beyond her years. She stated at one point, whilst cradling her guitar that she didn't know what she was doing with it but she knew how to play it. Almost like a friend you've become so comfortable with, you can't remember where you met but you know it's a perfect relationship and it will last for eternity. Ellie who is a champion of the cover song shared her beautiful and almost unrecognisable version of Midlake's 'Roscoe' with the gracious audience. Ellie's first official release 'Under The Sheets' couldn't come quick enough, the crowd lapping it up and beaming like one music savvy Cheshire cat. A personal favourite of mine, 'Starry Eyed' completed her astonishing set leaving the crowd yearning for more and fixed in place, surely the night wasn't over?

Both acts came across humble and truly blessed by the few hundred that had endured the rain to show their support for MTV's triumphant 10 For 10 gig at the ever so atmospheric Dingwalls. In my view, a complete collaborative success.

Feeling Fenech for 2010

Four pretty boys in skinnies? Check. With an outlandish name? Check. Catchy riffs? Check. Terribly addictive lyrics? Check. And just today tipped by iTunes as their artist to watch in 2010? Double ch-check. It must be my new favourite band Fenech-Soler that are getting indie kids everywhere hot under their Fred Perry collars by marking every box.

Who? You may ask. What an unusual name you may think. Correct, an unusual name - they've already checked that box remember. But it was thought through and not just an off-the-cuff 'let's name ourselves after a day of the week' decision, their bass player has the surname Soler and it's based around a Maltese patriot who was alive and kicking in the 1700's. If you don't want to look like an idiot in HMV when you purchase new EP 'Lies' I'll sound it out for you "phen-ick so-laar". Now we've got that sorted I'll tell you a bit more about their sound and why I think they're ever so delightful.

Recently signed to Andy and Jaymo (off of Radio 1)'s Moda Music label, their first single to get major airplay is called 'Lies' and no that wasn't just by our dj duo. They also featured on BBC Radio Lincolnshire as part of their new music show. The band appeal to all ages and have great club appeal, highlighted by remixes of 'Lies' from Alex Metric and Tom Staar. I asked the guys how it feels to hear their song on the radio and whether they have a good old knees up when hearing their tune in a club - "it's very gratifying to hear our song on the radio... that (Alex Metric's) remix certainly did get us dancing although we kept it to the studio! Alex is a very talented musician. So are these four lads, and they sure can put on a show. They explain; "We perform our songs rather than just play them... electronic music can be difficult to get right live but it's all about energy and passion on stage for us." This was clear to see when the band took to the world's smallest stage in the world's most crammed room for Huw Stephen's 'Introducing' night at The Social in London. "The Social was really good fun! Sometimes shows like that are even better as you can create and control an atmosphere very quickly." I was singing along to songs I'd heard for the very first time, how is that even possible? Granted I probably looked like a four year old trying to recite the Alphabet at the time but I enjoyed the process! And I enjoyed their exciting array of garments, like a magpie looking at something shiny - or just me looking at something shiny? I asked how they create and hone their style; "We really like Fred Butler. We wore some of her pieces for a few shoots we did in the summer. We just pick up stuff as we go along. The 'Lies' outfits were found in a second hand store in Paris." Long-live the Charity shop!

'Lies' is one of the most catchiest tunes I've heard this year, and that's saying something considering that we're on the edge on a new decade. I strongly believe that Fenech have a place in the future of the Electro/Indie scene so watch this space and download their 'Lies' EP.

Ellie 'gold dust' Goulding.

Part 1 in my series of BIG for 2010 - heads up all La Roux, Regina, and Bat For Lashes fans this is Ellie Goulding, a wonderfully talented twenty-something singer-songwriter from the rolling valleys of Wales.

I've been waiting for Miss Goulding to explode for months and now it won't be long until she's darting round the universe, ricocheting off every mediocre pop star, knocking them into next week (I'm praying it's Jedward she obliterates).

Ellie's simply delicious voice erupted into my atmosphere when I was at university, around ten months ago. A DJ friend of mine, dropped Jakwob's remix of 'Starry Eyed' in Lincoln's legendary club The CELL (now Scy). I was in love, both parties had contributed to an outstanding piece of harmonic dub. And amazingly when removing all the post edits I was thrilled to find that Ellie's voice was still pure class.

Last month Neon Gold posted Ellie's first official release, and oh my I haven't stopped listening to 'Under The Sheets', I think my iTunes is going to worry that it's stuck on repeat (no Little Boots pun intended). There's too many elements to this track that I adore. The lyrics for one are at post-grad level, no crayon scrawl here, no sir. This girl writes about things we can all relate to whether you're a boy, girl, if you're old or young. Her lyrics are comforting and sometimes brutally honest just like an old friend.

It's currently being played massive amounts by Greg James' (off of Radio 1), and it's being soaked up by many others including the wonderful Jools Holland. Jools gave Goulding her television debut, and has given her a sparkle of exposure before the single drops on 16th of this month. Ellie is signed to Polydor records and is currently touring with Little Boots, another succesful lady who went supersonic in only a few months of her debut.

This girl has a lot of admirers and is set to be big next year, she's bound to be remixed to high heaven, like another Ellie (La Roux) we know so well. And hell I am not complaining, remix away, but don't forget the original talent this girl has bubbling inside - do yourself a favour and buy the track!

Moda Owns Me, You and Your Mum Too.

If you haven't yet been owned by Moda yet, then why not?! I guess I can sort of forgive you for your lack of grey matter... maybe go shout at your parents for not passing on basic comprehensive skills, you know like reading. But forget? Now that's just stupid and stupid you will be if you aren't totally and utterly convinced that you too want to get it up the bum from Moda after you've read this.

For me Moda has felt like an extended family for the past three years at uni, every month I had a night I could go to and feel like I was finally chowing down on something more nutritious than beans on toast, and no I'm not chatting about happy pills. I'm talking about fresh music fed to me on a silver spoon by top class, even world renowned djs.

I'm lucky enough to know the two clever clogs behind Moda music, they're probably two of the most charming and down-to-earth djs I've ever met and no there was no exchange of money for me to say that (although they'd probably buy me a few drinks, 'cause they're bloody lovely like that). Earlier this week I caught up with them to have a long over due chat about the Moda wagon.

Annie Mac returns to Moda Lincoln @ The Engine Shed in two weeks (16th October) with pals Hervé, Rusko and Delphic (live) for her third appearance. Tickets available here!

So what makes Miss Mac return time and time again?

Andy: "Moda's at that point now where people really want to come and play. Annie's just up for the party. She's really enjoyed all the previous gigs and obviously we see her a lot [Radio One], so its just gonna be a bit of a laugh for everyone."

Avid fans will realise that the boys took Moda on vacation to the White Isle for a few months this summer, I wanted to know just what they'd been up to (n.b anyone that knows me will realise that I get quite protective and sentimental over Moda) whilst I was stuck in the UK looking at a majorly overdrawn bank account! Andy explains Ibiza business - "We've been doing parties at Wonderland for Pete Tong's night. They went really well the highlight being Fake Blood and His Majesty Andre." The pair were also out there representing Radio One where they played Priviledge and Ibiza Rocks, "...that was epic, a lot of the Radio One crew said it was the best one yet, so we were honoured to be involved" adds Jay.

Jaymo: "Secondly we've been getting the Moda Music label kicked off. Craig Duranti is managing the label and its going really well. Shed loads of radio play (and no, not just from us!) and magazine reviews. Both of the first two releases have gone top 5 in the Cool Cuts chart as well as being licensed around the world for various compilations."

If that's not tons on their vinyl plate, they've set up another destination for Moda. London Moda takes off tomorrow night in BIG way with R1 bud Alex Metric, it's about time they come down south a wee bit and share the wealth.

So guys, now you've given breath to Moda London does this mean you're phasing out its Northern counterpart (say it ain't so, *sniff)?

Andy: "Of course not. We've played in most UK venues and The Engine Shed is

one of the best, without a doubt. It's up there with Manchester's Warehouse Project. Especially once we've kitted out with all the extra sound and light."

Jaymo: "The other day we sent Andy off to try get a better quote on some of

the lighting we use, as its really quite expensive. He came back with an even higher quote than the one we had before but with loads of these really cool extra lights. And of course we couldn't resist cos it looked pimp!"

The boys don't see this as their business or income;

Jaymo - "Athough we're professional Moda is like a big toy for us, if there's anything we can do to push it up a gear we'll do it".

The pair are excited for tomorrow nights gig in London, "we have some huge line-ups planned". Be sure to make a stop off to see Jack Beats, Alex Metric and Tom Starr @ The Macbeth, N1.

I wanted to know if the boys are feeling a bit proud of themselves for booking Little Boots just before she exploded, LB played her second ever gig for Moda in Lincoln.

You've got Delphic playing in October, do you feel they'll have a similar explosion onto the scene?

Jaymo: "NME recently stated they Delphic are the band most likely to explode in the next 12 months, so its a chance for people to see them pre-explosion, if you will. People still say to me "I can't believe Little Boots played at Moda last year". She was relatively unknown then but we know she was about to go into orbit, so it just makes the whole event a bit more special."

Andy: "the thing we try to do with Moda (both the events

and the label) is catch people we think are gonna blow, I think people really trust Moda to do things like that these days".

The trust is obvious from the army of fans that have amassed over the past three years, Moda followers are crazy, up for a laugh and completely dedicated to the Moda cause.

The Moda army @ The Engine Shed 08

So guys what artists are big in your lives right now?

Jaymo: "The XX is getting a lot of love in my car stereo, as is the Neon Indian album. Dance floor wise I'm really liking Solo, Mowgli and Riva Starr. Grum and Alex Metric are really on fire, Alex's new stuff is by far his best yet"

Andy: "Fenech Soler are obviously sounding good too right now, great song writers. Can't wait for the album, big Miike Snow fan too - check mine and Jay's remix!"

All that's left to say is thank you to the boys for answering my (probably quite tedious) questions and good luck to the Moda family for the future, I don't want to see any divorce or trial separation - think of the kids!

See you boys in October!