New Music Review #100

Another ten tracks? Oh go on then!

Big Tide - Half The Time

With a retro sixties sound that combines the vocals of Elvis Costello and the sound of the Byrds, this a smooth warming track with a throwback feel. (6.5/10)

Franko Fraize feat Alex Joseph - Side By Side

A strong mix of slow-rap delivery and lighters-out chorus with a simple but building production that all combines well into a soaring number that empowers you. (7/10)

HAIM - Little of Your Love

Having recently enjoyed their full album this funky song definitely stood out and it's good to see it releases as a single as it balances a very singable chorus with a strong crisp production. (7/10)

Kelsea Ballerini - Legends

After the punchier XO we get the more touching, sentimental and well-written 'Legends', which will certainly pull at the old heart strings. Beautiful. (7.5/10)

Niall Horan - Too Much To Ask 

A little bit overly sentimental and covers familiar ground for the genre but this is a touching, nicely written and sung ode to break ups which resonates well. (7/10)

P!nk - Beautiful Trauma

Though not quite as big as her recent comeback single this is still a strong emotionally written ballad with throwbacks to her big drug-related hit. Neat enough. (6.5/10)

P!nk - Whatever You Want 

It's double pink for this edition with this gentle yet soaring ballad. It's not quite got the bite of her other big records but has a smooth and likeable vibe to how it progresses. (6.5/10)

PVRIS - Winter

With plenty of attitude in its electronic-influenced rock sound, this is quite an experimental sounding piece but one that works to bring together many elements into an interestingly produced piece. (6/10)

Roy Orbison feat. Ward Thomas & the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra) -  I Drove All Night

Taking a break from their work with Elvis Presley's back catalogue, the orchestra move onto the Big O with this spirited, yet faithful, re-imaginging of one of his biggest hits. The strings really compliment it, as do the voices of Ward Thomas on the second verse and harmonies. A cool take on a classic. (7.5/10)


Voice of the Sea - Life's an Elevator / Cosmic Dancer

Acting as a tribute to Marc Bolan and T-Rex, this is a delightful pairing of covers from Voice of the Sea, combining her strong vocals with a sweet and touching backing that pairs back the originals. The first track is much more fun than the latter, but both boast strong production. Pleasing. (6.5/10)

New Music Review #56

Another ten songs you need to hear!

The Amazons - Junk Food Forever

Crossing over between indie and rock the latest from the Amazons has a fun sing-a-long sound and a quirky video to go along with the simple but involving song. (6.5/10)

Biffy Clyro - Friends and Enemies

It's not really a huge departure from their trademark sound so doesn't really stand out from their regular discography, but it's a fun enough inclusion to their inevitable singles collection. (6/10)


Hurts - Beautiful Ones

You can often rely on Hurts to bring you a catchy pop-indie crossover and 'Beautiful Ones' is no exception, mixing in their older sound with more electronic twists. (7.5/10)

Jack Savoretti - We Are Bound

Having been on heavy radio circulation recently this is another solid pop-indie number from the gruff vocal-ed singer. Throw in some subtle strings and a catchy tempo and you get a hit from Savoretti. (7.5/10)

Kelsea Ballerini - XO

Finally landing on our radar, this country-pop crossover has plenty of poppy catchiness, attitude and great vocals to make a perfect storm for a hit. (7.5/10)

Lindsey Buckingham & Christine McVie - In My World

Two musical heavyweights come together on this cut back, gentle number that has a surprising catchiness in its simplicity. (7/10)

Low Roar feat. Jófríõur Ákadóttir - Bones

Having already reviewed the album from this is taken, this is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable songs on the album, the two contrasting vocals heartfelt and delightful. (7.5/10)

Niall Horan - Slow Hands

Though perhaps not as genre-bending as his former bandmates Styles' number this is a much more accessible and poppy number with a catchy pop chorus and fun modern-sounding production. (7/10)

Tom Chaplin - See It So Clear (Acoustic)

Tom Chaplin, the voice of Keane, gives us this delightful acoustic take on his new single, the dual vocals lifting up the song and giving some bite to this touching and personal number. (7/10)

TYNE - Girly

Cut back and not showy this is a fun little song held together by TYNE's delightfully Lily Allen-esque lyrics and clean production. Fun. (7/10)