I’d rather listen to human nails being dragged down a blackboard on a loop than an entire album of Tom ‘Squarepusher’ Jenkinson’s slap bass improvisations, but guess which one Warp Records has decided to release? I’ll give you a clue. It’s not Nails Down the Blackboard: Volume One. Instead, Tom’s ‘excursions as a solo bass virtuoso’ are being immortalised on the forthcoming album, ‘Solo Electric Bass 1′*.
Jack Penate – Be The One
4 CommentsJune 29, 2009 – 1:00 pm
If ever you wanted proof of the pernicious effect of London on the cultural life of the nation, Jack Penate is it. In any other town in the country, Penate would be condemned to a life of spirit crushing toilet venue anonymity until he finally jacked it in and got a job in a call centre instead.
Red Light Company – Arts & Crafts
7 CommentsJune 14, 2009 – 6:10 pm
The song sounds like something from 1991. Not altogether terrible. It’s the video that plays havoc with the senses.
White Lies – Farewell to the Fairground
2 CommentsJune 14, 2009 – 5:49 pm
I know, I know.
It confused me too. At first you think it’s Joy Division – because it looks exactly like Joy Division – but then the music chimes in and knocks you for six. The Shed 7 style jangling juxtaposed with the sombre stylings of Ian Curtis (and an exact replica of his haircut) really jars, mentally. The messy coupling makes your spine jangle in its slot as you try to balance the two sides of your brain.
Tommy Sparks – Camden Barfly
0 CommentsJune 9, 2009 – 1:56 pm
A pre-LadyHawke show for Tommy Sparks, and it seems that the forthcoming fame has gone to their collective heads, with a late arrival on stage and a short set. Fortunately for those braving the chilly evening and that unique toilet smell that pervades the venue, it’s a short shot of bouncing, savant-guarde pop that goes down a storm with the jaded Barfly crowd.
