Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do - Music - Indie Tracks To Listen To This Week

Hi!!!

It's been a while since I've done a music post so today I'm going to talk you through some indie tracks that you really need to add to all your playlists.

'Deadcrush' by Alt J

Alt J songs are staples in a lot of indie playlists, from 'Hunger of the Pine' to 'Breezeblocks'. As such, it might not come as a surprise to you that I've picked their latest offering to put in this post. It's just so good. It's conceptual, it's a little bit weird, it's very Alt J. It won't be to everyone's taste but you really should give it a go, because you can't find this kind of stuff elsewhere.

'Bloodshake' by Peace

I am obsessed with Peace, and have been for months - so much so that I am shocked to my core that I am yet to tell you about this song. Oh and they're from the West Midlands, like me, so that's a plus. If you like bands like Foals and Two Door Cinema Club, you'll get along with Peace very well. The vocals have a real depth to them, and the harmonies really lift the chorus. Big love for this.

'Your Love' by The Magic Gang

I first listened to this because I thought a band called The Magic Gang simply begged to be listened to. I was right. 'Your Love' is a hazy 60s inspired number, which has a unique mix of familiar and fresh qualities. If it doesn't scream talent, I'm not sure what does. I think it was made for summer. It's gold.

'Laidback' by Rat Boy

Yes, a song by the act that haunted my YouTube adverts for a solid month. While the Vevo x Rat Boy ads weren't my favourite thing in this life, I can't deny how good this track is. It's easy going, catchy cheeky and sunny and I think it's a must for what is left of summer.

'Junk Food Forever' by The Amazons

This has been on my radar for ages, not least because supporting your fellow gingers  (especially when they look a bit like a male version of you) is essential. Anyway, this song is fantastic. It's full of bold, funky guitar riffs, really good lyrics and a stirring rock and rolling vocal. It's great to shoutily sing along to, as well (always a plus).

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed this post and that you enjoy the songs I've recommended.

What songs should I listen to this week? Do you have any other comments or suggestions for future posts? Drop me a comment below.

Speak soon. I'm away at the seaside for a few days, I hope your plans are just as lovely.

Have an amazing day!

GingerSnaps xxx

I've Been Thinking... - Blogging (Where I'm At).

Hi!!!

I wanted to sit down and have a chat and a cup of tea with you today. I haven't done that in a while but I'm looking forward to this. I think its fair to say that so far this year, posts have been somewhat sparse. I wanted to tell you where that's left me with blogging, and explain a little bit as to where I've been.





I don't go into detail about what occupies my weekdays all that much on here, and I won't bore you with specifics now, but I will say that my workload significantly increased during the first half of this year. I went and did my regular weekday work, and then came home and did more. Those of you who know me in real life will know what this work was and what I was working towards, but for those of you who don't it was all going towards some very significant goals.



I hadn't realised quite how much I had thrown myself into this work, but I was just looking back at my blog content from so far this year and I think it really shows. Last year I really found my stride with blogging and I was so pleased with my content and I was uploading regularly and more people were reading and I just wanted to tap dance in the street about the whole thing. This year, that hasn't really been the case. Its so hard to get back into the swing of something when you have, if we're being honest, neglected it for months. Its like returning to a game of Nintendogs when you finally found the game card again after it was lost in the depths of your bedroom and not quite remembering how to make the dog do tricks (this analogy obviously won't make much sense to you if you weren't an avid Nintendo DS player like me). I don't necessarily think of writing a blog post now when I'm bored. I'm not even signed into my Google account on my laptop half the time. I have ideas for posts and then don't get round to writing them because I seem to have forgotten that I actually need to sit down and write the thing, rather than just think about it, for it to actually materialise.

 

 

 I wanted to let you know that I have not stopped blogging, I am still here, I have not given up, I have no intentions of doing so. I know its super frustrating when you have no new posts to read and I'm sorry that this space has become one of those places recently. I'm in the process now of writing several posts, and hopefully I'll manage to finish writing them, take photos for them, and publish them before 2085. Please bear with me as I try and remember not only how to do this, but to do this. I won't promise ten posts a month, because it will take a while for me to get back to that place, but I am promising posts. I'm not one for breaking promises so I'll be doing my best to keep this one. And if you know me in real life, please feel free to spam my life with reminders to upload - and if you don't know me in real life, then you can always spam the comments section and I'll get a million notifications to spur me on.

 

 

Thanks for reading. I hope you've enjoyed reading this little catch up post.

Do you have any comments or suggestions for future posts? I'd love to hear from you, so be sure to leave a comment below.

Thanks for your patience. I'll speak to you all soon.

Have a fabulous day!

GingerSnaps xxx

Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do - Music - Live Music Lately.

Hi!!!

Good evening. I think I said in my last post that uploads would be back to normal but so far for July... I had one of the busiest and best weeks of my life last week and so I wasn't able to write and upload but I am excited to fill you in this week. I wanted to start at the beginning of the week, which was booked up with live music. Let's begin.

A note here: I had planned for this to go up today earlier this week. I'm editing it now because I simply couldn't publish a music post without taking a moment to reflect on Chester Bennington, the singer from Linkin Park, who has recently passed away. My thoughts are with the band, his friends and family.

Now onto the post.

On Sunday the 9th, I went to Godiva Festival with a certain Elf and one of our close friends. Godiva Festival is held in the War Memorial Park in Coventry, so it's definitely one for my fellow Midlanders.
 It's also free to enter, which is an absolute gift. They have a Rythmn Tent which you will adore if, like me, you are a big fan of ska and other similar genres. It's full of great bands. Then there's the 'main stage' where we caught the end of the Lucy Spraggan set and watched Kate Nash (yep, she's still going haha). The main reason we went was to see The Darkness and they did not let us down at all. If you aren't familiar with them, they are a hair metal/glam rock band who've been making music for at least fourteen years. They are easily one of my favourite acts that I have seen live - they put on such a good show, they have great banter and they care about their audience in a very genuine way. Their set was filled with everything from old to new songs and it was glorious. 

I also finally got to go and see Coldplay with my Uncle B last Tuesday. A few years ago, I was invited to tag along with him but couldn't because of school commitments, and this repeated through sixth form and life and such. Finally, this year I was free and so we went down to Cardiff to see them perform their Head Full of Dreams tour. I finally got one of the Xylobands (they light up automatically during the concert, at different speeds and in different colours) - let me tell you, seeing an entire stadium light up yellow is quite the sight to behold.

 The show is also full of confetti, pyrotechnics and giant balloons, so it is a lot of fun and certainly a memorable performance. We were also able to buy Pringles from the bar and got through several tubs during the gig, which is certainly not a bad thing. Thanks Uncle B for taking me!

As I said at the beginning of this post, I still have plenty of things from last week to fill you in on, and hopefully I'll be doing that over the next few days. I hope you enjoyed reading this.
Have you been to see any live music recently? Do you have any comments or suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments.
Thanks so much for reading.

I hope your day is wonderful!

GingerSnaps xxx 

Congratulations! - Blogging Milestones - My Blog Turns 4!

Hi!!!

Hey. I'm back. You might have noticed that May and June have been fairly empty months around here, or you might not. Either way, I'm back and I'll be able to create regular content for you guys again - hopefully. My blog is four years old this year, which is crazy to me, but is nonetheless true. Every year, I write a post to celebrate its birthday. So, here is this year's, at least a fortnight late. Oh and excuse any keyboard dust in the photos - turns out laptops are more difficult to clean that I had first thought (lol).

I just wanted to commemorate four years - each year that I write and create for this blog, I love it more and more. I love the freedom it gives me, I love that it is a creative space, and I love that I can talk about all of my favourite things, to people who want to listen (or, you know, read).

In the last year, I've been so proud of my content and I've watched as more and more of you have started reading what I put together. I'm just incredibly grateful for this blog, for all of you and for the opportunity to have this space.

Here's to year number five, for everything it will bring for this blog - hopefully as much happiness and fun as the past few years. I'm so excited to create another years worth of content for you all, to whom I am so grateful for reading and supporting and commenting - it means the whole world to me. So, thanks for reading, I hope you enjoy what you find here.

Happy 4th Birthday, blog xxx

Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed taking this little trip down Memory Lane with me.

What would you like to see more of in the next year on my blog? Do you have any other comments or blog birthday messages? Let me know in the comments below, I'd love to hear from you.

Big love.

Have a spectacular 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

Oh My Life! - Tales of My Life and Times - A Visit To Warwick Castle (And Why You Should Visit This Summer).

Hi!!!

Today I'm going to tell you a little bit about a day out that Elf Girl and I went on back in April and also tell you why you should also go on a similar day out. We went to Warwick Castle, a popular heritage site that is local to us, and we had a great day.

I hadn't been to Warwick Castle for at least 6 years - I'd been on many a childhood family and school trip - and so I was excited to see the new features I'd seen advertised, and of course to spend the day pretending to be royalty with my best friend.

The first thing we did when we arrived was head over to the new Horrible Histories Maze. As Horrible Histories fans, and big kids, we were excited to see what it would be like.

 We weren't disappointed.

It was one of the highlights of the day. There are several sections within the maze based on different historical periods. It's more about finding those places than finding the way out and it is so much fun. There are plenty of photo opportunities, and lots of bitesize information, and it's fun for all ages.

When you leave the maze, there are two exits - one for the grown-ups, one for the children. The children's exit is like an obstacle course, and I can tell you first hand that it is a whole lot of fun, even if our heights did make it a bit complicated - I had to walk across the tops of the obstacles but I think it made it all the more enjoyable.

The State Rooms are open to visit, and so we saw a range from bedrooms to libraries to chapels.

The rooms are gorgeous, although I will say that there isn't as much information available in them or about them as there is at similar heritage properties, which is something to bear in mind if you love your history, like me.

However, they are still very much worth a wander through. Oh, but just to warn you, we did hear a really odd hissing noise in the library and we practically flew out of the room because our first conclusion was "It might be a ghost". It was hilarious, and probably not a ghost, but do let me know if you hear it on any recent visits, haha.

The Mound and the battlements give great views of the castle grounds and the Warwickshire landscape - which is beautiful - as well as allow you to be taken back in time to the castle' s history as a defensive site. I think my last visit before this was on a school trip that was centred on defensive castles - in the same year we studied William the Conquerer, so it was with that time period in mind - so it also called back a few memories to be up on the battlements again.

The grounds are home to several birds of prey, gift shops and restaurants (where you can stock up on sweets and toy swords), small archery workshops for children and lots of shows.

We saw an amazingly informative and totally hilarious Horrible Histories show, but at other times of year there are other cool shows - such as epic War of the Roses battles over the summer, which sound incredible. There are also falconry displays and trebuchet shows (their trebuchet is the largest working siege machine in the world) on throughout the year, which are awesome, and were a staple part of visits for me when I was younger.

There are several other cool things to see and do at Warwick Castle but I would recommend following our plan for the day.

I had so much fun - of course spending the day with my best friend probably helped a lot, but I'm sure the castle and it's grounds played their parts too, haha.
Oh, and there are Ben and Jerry's vending machine in the car park, and if that final statement hasn't convinced you, I don't know what will.

I had such a great time, and I'm so glad we went - you should definitely put it on your list for 'Days Out' ideas, it's well worth it. I mean, really, what's better than spending the day scanning round a castle in pretty dresses, pretending to be princesses with your friends? Not much, I'd bet.

I hope you enjoyed this post.
Have you been to Warwick Castle? Do you have any comments or suggestions for future posts? Leave me a comment to let me know.
Thanks so much for reading.

I hope your day is brilliant!

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