Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do - Music - The Bands I've Been Listening To On SoundCloud This Week.

Hi!!!

I love SoundCloud. It is easily one of my favourite platforms and, for any music obsessive, it is an essential to have bookmarked. I personally mostly use SoundCloud to find new artists and to listen to songs by said artists if I love what they do (especially those who are yet to release full EPs or albums). I thought I'd share three bands I've been listening to - and loving - on SoundCloud this week.

Swimming Tapes.

Swimming Tapes make dreamy guitar pop with soft sunshine vibes. The music they make is like Fanta - fizzy, orange, fun. There's an intricacy to the layering of their songs and a gentle, hazy quality to the vocals and to the overall sound of the songs. Everything feels fresh - even though there are some vintage influences I can here, absolutely nothing about their sound feels recycled or like I've heard it before.

Start with: Queen's Parade.

Husky Loops.

Specialising in oh so cool and super magnetic music, Husky Loops are the band to check out if you love smooth, slick rock. Making dynamic and seemingly effortless use of electronic elements and often taking the unexpected road whenever the opportunity arises, be it in the middle or at the end of a piece, moves their songs away from the standard and predictable, creating a sound that really stands out.

Start with: Fighting Myself.

TOUTS.

If you like bold sounds, blunt lyrics and punk music, you should definitely check out TOUTS. A three piece punk band from Derry who have managed to carve out a space for themselves in the genre which carries all of the fire and fight it should but is still listenable. It isn't noisy for the sake of being noisy, something that has always bothered me about certain punk groups - punk should have something to say and sometimes people turn their amps up to disguise when they don't. TOUTS have plenty to say and say it with Northern Irish vocals and a certainty that they are right, which is what makes them.

Start with: No Name.

Thanks for reading - I hope you enjoy exploring the recomendations in today's post.

Who have you been listening to recently (particularly on SoundCloud)? Do you have any other comments or suggestions for future posts? Leave a comment to let me know.

Speak soon.

I hope you have an utterly brilliant day!

• GingerSnaps xxx

Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do - Music - New Music Picks.

Hi!!!

Good afternoon, lovely people. Today I have some new music to share with you. Most of the songs in this post are so new that they have only been released in the last week or so making them hot off the press tracks. There's everything from slow melodic songs to upbeat bops so hopefully you'll find something you like amongst this lot - I certainly like them all a lot.

 Nobody Gets What They Want Anymore by Marlon Williams (with Aldous Harding)

This song is melodic with a vintage, 1950s and 1960s feel to it. The melancholic lyrics pair wonderfully with the soft, rounded vocals, delicate harmonies which provide an air of vulnerability. It also reminds me of those indie movies and short films that have incredible soundtracks as well as great characters and beautiful videography - I'm not sure if that makes much sense to anyone other than me, but if you understand what I mean, then yes, it's that. It is a gorgeous piece and I have decided its compulsory listening for November.

Lemon To A Knife Fight by The Wombats

The newest release from The Wombats has all of the key components of the band's signature sound but a more mature, perhaps slightly more restrained, finish compared to their previous work. The vocals and lyrics are almost conversational and combine realism with quirky wording in a show of how their signature style has developed and improved over the years. I found that musically it reminded me of older tracks like Moving to New York in places, but with a less brash sound and a more dance around than jump around quality. I'm excited to hear what their upcoming new releases are like because this is certainly very promising.

Alright by The Magic Gang

You may remember that back in August I mentioned The Magic Gang to you - in this post - and since then I have been listening to and enjoying more and more of their music. They have become one of my favourite bands of 2017 and 'Alright' is a perfect example of why. This song is rooted in indie rock with electric guitars and layered harmonies ready to elevate the piece. The lyrics are catchy and the overall effect of the music, lyrics and vocals is a cool and unique sound which I cannot stop listening to.

That brings me to the end of this post. I hope you enjoyed reading it and I hope you enjoy listening to these songs this week.

Which is your favourite? Do you have any other comments or perhaps suggestions for future posts? Leave a comment and let me know.

Thanks for reading!

I hope you're having a fantastic day!

GingerSnaps xxx

Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do - Music - This Week's Playlist.

Hi!!!

I've got a post about music for you today - it feels like an age since I last wrote one but if nothing else it means I've had plenty of time to find songs for this one. I thought you might be in need of a few songs to refresh your playlists for this week, so I've compiled a list of the songs I've been playing most recently, including plenty of brand new music. Hope you guys like it.

Young, Dumb and Broke by Khalid.

This track comes with an incredibly relatable title (lol), a clear, husky, honest sounding vocal and such a strong vibe. It's chill, it's easy to listen to, it's youthful, it's catchy. It has been an instant favourite for me since I first heard it in late August and I've been waiting to put it in a post since. I think it is an absolute essential for your playlists.

Holy Mountain by Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds.

As many of you know, I'm a lifelong Noel Gallagher fan. This is the first release from the upcoming new album 'Who Built The Moon?' and I think it is fantastic. It is a different direction for the High Flying Birds, but I think it is energetic, it is upbeat, it really suits Noel's voice and it certainly has that stomping sit-up-and-listen quality that I love from the band's music.

Dear Life by Beck.

Dear Life, a single from Beck's new album Colours, is a really unique song. It has jazz and blues elements throughout thanks to a fabulous piano riff that guides the song. There are also some rock elements, particularly in the chorus when the electric guitar comes to the fore, but it isn't aggressive and it doesn't overpower the blues-y aspects. The lyrics are slightly melancholy, yet attention grabbing, and they have that meaningful, authenticity that draws a lot of people to Beck's music.

I hope you enjoyed reading this and that you get joy from adding these songs to your playlists.
What are your current favourite songs? Do you have any suggestions for future posts, or any comments in general? Leave a comment below to let me know.
I hope your week is off to a good start, I'll see you all very soon.

Have a marvellous day!

GingerSnaps xxx

Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do - Music - 2017 Summer Playlist Essentials.

Hi!!!

Before I begin, I just wanted to say that my thoughts are with the people affected by the events in Manchester earlier this week - I was shocked by the news, and cannot imagine how the families and friends of the victims, the injured and the community of Manchester are feeling. My heart goes out to them all. All I can say is that we must hold onto our faith in hope, love and goodness, support each other wherever we can, and remember those whose lives have been lost.

Today I have some songs that are essential for your summer playlists, especially when it's as sunny as it is in the UK right now - getting outside (with plenty of SPF) and blasting these songs at top volume is the perfect way to enjoy this summertime weather.

'Malibu' by Miley Cyrus.

I love Miley Cyrus - I had done since she started at Disney and have followed and loved her music ever since. In this Billboard interview (which is one of the best things I've read so far this year) she spoke about her newest release, 'Malibu', and I spent days waiting for it - I actually squealed when it appeared in my suggestions on YouTube. 'Malibu' is a beautiful love song, that combines rock and pop elements with a sense of delicacy and vulnerability. Miley's voice the focal point, and this song just showcases how rich and how strong her voice is. In some ways, its a calm track, but a very upbeat and joyful one which will send your brain straight to a happy place, and put you in mind of the beach.

'I'm the One' by DJ Kahled, Justin Beiber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper, and Lil Wayne.

This has already been at number 1 in the UK chart, and is firmly in the Top 5, and it isn't hard to see why. This is again a really chill, understated track musically, and Justin Beiber's vocals really lift the chorus. You could totally dance to this but it's also pretty chill, and I love that versatility. I think the choice of rappers on this track is spot on and their verses are awesome - I think they showcase rap in such a positive way. I'm a big fan of all of these artists individually and I think that together, they have created such a great collaboration, and I think it's worth the hype it's been getting.

'Love's Run Out' by Circa Waves.

We all know by now that I am the biggest Circa Waves fan, and I rattle on about their music to anyone who'll listen. This track is so soothing and so heartfelt. It makes you slow down and take a moment. It shows their Liverpudlian roots clear as day - I can definitely hear the influence of The Beatles on this (as well as other 60s groups). The production is amazing, making it sound like a treasure found from the past, with a slightly crackle-y, viynl feel to its sound. The lyrics are gorgeous and so simple, creating a sublime love song that I couldn't help falling for.

Thank you so much for reading. I hope this post has brought some joy to your day, and I'm sure these songs will too.

What songs are essential to your summer playlists this year? Do you have any other comments or suggestions for future posts? Leave a comment and let me know.

Speak soon, big love.

I hope your day is full of sunshine!

GingerSnaps xxx

Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do - Music - New Music, April 2017 Edition.

Hi!!!

What's up, guys? Wasn't that the most blogger-y start to a post? Anyway, today I have a post all about new music. One of my favourite things in life is finding new songs, new artists or hearing new releases from artists who I've listened to for a long time. There is a full range of those options here for you today, and something for everyone from fun euro-pop to indie guitar tracks to spaced out pshydedellic beats. I hope you enjoy.

'Brazil' by Declan McKenna.

I have been a huge fan of Declan McKenna for quite a while now. 'Brazil' is a new release from his upcoming debut album, 'What Do You Think About The Car?', although I think it was used on an EP a while back, and I think it's fantastic. It is both upbeat and relaxed, it is effortlessly cool, and like all of his songs, 'Brazil' is current and socially aware. His music is guitar based, which we all know I love, and I would highly recommend listening to his tracks.

'Soap' by Fox Wilde.

This is solid gold Euro-pop and I am so excited about this track. Fox Wilde are such a charismatic duo and this song (and the music video) show this off brilliantly. The lyrics are cheeky and youthful, the music is layered and interesting, and it has a lot of potential for dancing to. It's a super fun song, and I'm now a little obsessed with Fox Wilde, I'm not going to lie.

'Sunflower' by Rex Orange County.

If summer-y vintage style songs are up your street then you have to listen to this song. Rex Orange County is a mulit-instrumentalist and makes full use of his range of skills on 'Sunflower', the saxophone in the chorus is awesome. I think this track has influences from the 60s, 70s and from the jazz genre as a whole, and the end product is a cool, sun soaked end product. The only thing I'm not hugely keen on is the spoken word bridge - I don't really like talking in songs - but overall, its a fab song.

'Halfway' by Laosie.

'Halfway' is a spaced out, electronic trance piece that is beautifully produced. The lyrics are phrased nicely - I know that sounds odd but it holds your attention - and the vocals are soft, with an ethereal quailty. It's graceful and soft and needs to be added to your playlists right away. It's a brief moment of escapism, but doesn't ever fade into the basic or dull. I love it.

'Percieve/Pursue' by Bakery.

This experimental alternative rock song is so interesting because of its composition. It's mostly instrumental, and a broad range of instruments and sounds are used throughout which holds your attention. It's trippy and it's bold and I think that Bakery are really onto something with this. The production and mix on this track creates a layered affect which adds to the impact of it all around.

'Be Who You Are' by The Kooks.

I love The Kooks, I have done since I was younger. I love their brand of sunny, smart indie pop and this new track hasn't let me down. Its cheerful, feel-good and the bridge is amazing - the track switches effortlessly between the band's staple guitar pop to a more relaxed, 70s style bridge and I am in love with it. Luke's unique voice really lifts this track.  Listen on a Monday morning to make you feel like a star ready to conquer the world.

'Modern Love' by The Courteeners.

Clear charismatic Northern English vocals, and smart self aware lyrics are what I've come to expect from The Courteeners. 'Modern Love' has all the components of a good indie song, with dance worthy, crowd rousing music and lyrics that just beg you to sing along and remember them. New music from bands I love always makes me happy, and The Courteeners haven't let me down (although actual 'Modern Love' apparently will).

'Hello Hello' by Fickle Friends.

Not only does this have the most awesome music video which reflects artistically the struggles and pressures young people face from society and their peers, the song itself is great. It's memorable and fresh and something that I think will appear to fans of all styles of music. It's got pop elements without being sacarine, and it's upbeat and the vocals are strong. If you're a fan of bands like The 1975 and Haim, then I'd definitely recommend you listen to these guys.

'Passionfruit' by Drake.

I am quite the Drake fan, which I don't think I've mentioned on the blog before. I just love the blend of honest lyrics, effortless beats and repetivite, catchy choruses. 'Passionfruit' has quickly become one of my favourite Drake songs, as I think it really showcases his contemporary R&B and hip-hop style. I think it's a must-have for all your summer playlists.

'Felt' by Clean Cut Kid.

Clean Cut Kid's debut album 'Felt' is released on Friday so I couldn't really pass up on including the title track. Clean Cut Kid are an awesome indie band who do everything from certifiable bops (see 'Leaving You Behind') to stuff that's perfect for long summer drives and gigs, like 'Felt'. 'Felt' is high energy and instantly loveable. The harmonies on this track are ace, and it's a really uplifting number, in my opinion. Oh, and did I mention they've been on tour with The Kooks recently?

'Vampires' by Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes.

I absolutely love Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes and their most recent release, 'Vampires' just confirms this. If you like loud, bold punk rock music, you'll get along with this one well. The lyrics are awesome, and Frank Carter has a great voice for rock - a classic gravel-y vocal. It has an original sound, while keeping the guitars and drums that drive rock, its contemporary and it is arresting.

Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed the post and that you enjoy listening to all of this new music.

Do you know of any new music that I should be listening to? I'd love to hear your recommendation from any artist or style. Do you have any other comments or suggestions for future posts? Leave a comment below and tell me.

Speak soon, everyone.

Have a great day!

GingerSnaps xxx

Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do - Music - You Need This Tom Grennan EP In Your Life.

Hi!!!

How is everyone today? I've got some new music to share with you today and when I say new, I mean like a month old new, by a new artist. Very exciting times. I think you guys are going to like it and I'm really excited to share it with you all. So, let's begin, shall we?

Before I go any further, the point of this whole post is basically to tell you that if you that if you only buy one thing this week, it should be Tom Grennan's EP, 'Something In the Water'.
 

The EP was released at the end of October and features four tracks - 'Old Songs', 'Something In The Water', 'Sweet Hallelujah' and and an acoustic version of the Chase and Status track 'All Goes Wrong' which he provided the vocals for.

There is a really strong sense of cohesion between all the songs on the EP but each one maintains interest. I think he's got a really soulful voice and I also really like the songs lyrically. The music is a balanced blend of power and ease and I could definitely listen to a whole album of this.

 

This is, in my opinion, one of the most exciting new releases of the year and I think Tom Grennan is one to watch in 2017. He has a great voice, and the tracks on this EP are all amazing. This guy has got talent.

Go and have a listen to it if you get the chance, you can buy it for £2.99 on Google Play, and I'll link the YouTube videos here.

 

I hope you enjoyed this post and that I might have steered you towards an artist you'll love. 

What do you think of this EP? Do you have any comments or suggestions for future posts? Let me known in the comments.

Thanks for reading.
 

Have a magical day!

GingerSnaps xxx