A Blue Flame - Don't Wait
With a slight Divine Comedy sound this is a delightfully smooth mid-tempo number with some really uplifting lyrics and a optimistic vibe. Delightful. (7.5/10)
Fiona Kennedy - Down the Line / Always On Your Mind
A contrasting double-header from Kennedy, encompassing the fast-paced pop-country of 'Down the Line' which mixes the Eagles and the Travelling Wilburys together into a perky, foot-stomping hit. Track two is a beautiful cover of the classic song, the split vocals and slower pace like the Willie Nelson original heart-renching. A brilliant pair of tracks. (7.5/10)
Gary Numan - My Name Is Ruin
There's quite an Egyptian-feel to the sound of this comeback track, that accompanies Numan's familiar vocals. A little more layered than his electronic past, this is a pleasing return for the 80s pioneer with plenty of atmosphere and a solid chorus, though it lacks one of his famous killer hooks. (6.5/10)
Hare Squead - Flowers
The Macy Gray-sounding chorus makes this record stronger, but its jazz and soul influences throughout the record make for a smooth swagger of a track; it's just a shame the final verse goes unnecessarily sweary and undoes some of the good work. (6.5/10)
Jack Found - Sundown
With hints of Mark Owen in his vocal style, this record is actually as perky as that energetic man band member. Throwing in a catchy chorus, brass section and sudden stops, it works well as a jaunty piece of pop. Very sunny! (7/10)
Rad Cat - Untitled (EP)
Having previously reviewed and enjoyed the opening track of the EP 'without U', the EP continues in a similar vibe, with its funky, mostly-instrumental, electronics continuing throughout songs such as 'i love u' and 'bae', the seventies, Daft Punk vibes enjoyable if not a tad samey played back to back. Fourth and final track 'hater' then is a refreshing change, but its urban-style tangent takes you by surprise with its grime-rnb influences. A fun EP with a quirky conclusion. (6.5/10)
Reggie N Bollie - Bumaye
It has to be said they've not broken huge ground with their sound on this single and auto-tune is doing a fair bit of work on the high notes but it's a summer-focused catchy little club song that puts a smile on your face. (6/10)
Robbie Williams - Eyes on the Highway
Taken from Robbie's second volume of unreleased tracks this feels a little like a standard Robbie ballad, but it's a strong enough lighters-out numbers and has a very singable chorus and smooth outlook. Nice. (7/10)
Sex Of Insects - I Can Hear The Light (Original Mix)
A more straight forward title from an intriguingly titled band, this is a gentle, evolving, pleasant little number that grows as you listen to it, its soundscapes building subtle images in your mind. (6.5/10)
Stevie King - Blue Car
With a relentless drum beat and smooth piano track, King's silky vocals work well with the driving rhythm. The chorus is certainly a grower and it's definitely a foot stomper. (7/10)
