Author Archives: Clayton Warwick

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Sometimes it takes a little added inspiration to craft something truly worthwhile. It could come from reading a completely engrossing book, feverishly turning page after page as the clock seemingly ticks at an alarming pace. It could come from an epic adventure somewhere far, far across the globe, giving you that much-needed perspective that you had previously lacked. For London-based five-piece Sloes, it was the latter, and what resulted after was something you’ll want to be a part of.

This quintet originally started as a duo, with members Jerome and Jo songwriting as they traveled through Columbia. From there, piece-by-piece, others joined in, including Paul, Luke, and Katie–Jo’s little sister. Today’s premiere, “Young,” showcases the breadth of their collective talents.

Vocally, Jerome’s powerful tone and cadence instantly hooks you in. Things only grow more enveloping, as Katie comes in on accentuating harmonies, giving a glowing counter balance. The structure is intelligently crafted, harnessing elements of classic folk strings, clean guitar work, and rolling hi-hat hits that maintain a highly engaging energy throughout.

This is more than likely the first time you’re hearing about this act, but we can assure you it won’t be the last. Make sure to follow them on Facebook to keep up with future shows, releases, and general musings.

LIVE DATES:
Jul 31st, Sidmouth Fringe Sessions, Devon
Aug 3rd, BBC London Introducing Sessions at The Scoop, Southbank
Aug 27th, Stroud Fringe, Gloucestershire
Aug 30th, Old Street Records, London
Sep, 17th, City Square live at The Etihad Stadium, Manchester

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California five-piece Kid Bloom certainly knows how to pull on my 90s music-loving heart strings. Maybe it’s the casual vocal cadence that beckons back on acts like Beck or Cake. Maybe it’s the crunchy power chords that give me joyful flashbacks to start-to-finish listening sessions Weezer’s Blue album. Yet, as much as we hear influences from that era, we also catch plenty of modern vibes from some of their techniques, which call on associations of one of our personal favorites, Tame Impala. Either way, elements from both decades are coming together seamlessly, leaving us grinning ear-to-ear.

“Lately It Feels Alright” is the third single from their debut EP, A Different State of Mind, following up the release of the title track, and “Electric U.” Guitar driven in nature, it presents a wonderful collection of both psychedelic riffs and foot-tapping, distorted chords. Those dueling styles provide the perfect backdrop for the nonchalant vocal style, giving way to an immensely enjoyable 3-minute ride.

If you happen to be in the SoCal area this Friday, we highly recommend heading to the Soda Bar in San Diego to catch their opening set for T.O.L.D. If you’re anywhere else in the world, just make sure to follow these cats on Facebook to keep tabs on upcoming news.