June music reviews: The Roster, Red Sea, The Public Eye, 2079, Ben Mark Smith and Mighty Lightweights
The Roster
Headstrong (Single)
The Roster’s new song Headstrong is a summer anthem, despite being released back in the winter. It is a blend of indie rock with a dash of jazz, creating a unique listening experience. The track has a cinematic quality, feeling like it could be the perfect fit for the ending credits of a film. The vocals are beautiful and memorable, not overpowering but leaving a lasting impression. The groovy drum beats add a punchy rhythm, creating a moving and enjoyable musical journey. Headstrong showcases The Roster’s ability to seamlessly fuse different elements into a harmonious and memorable piece. Conall Stacey
Red Sea
Flow (Single)
Infused with optimism and inspired by the world around us, Flow, the latest release from jazz band Red Sea, serves as a positive reminder to respond to life’s challenges like the rivers, going with the flow. Audible mindfulness exudes from this band which is being felt throughout the Midlands; after their two year tour saw them broadcasted across both BBC Introducing and BBC East Midlands multiple times. The soulful harmony of Flow tells us that we are both the leaves that fall and the flowers that bloom and throughout it all we should continue to sing like the birds in the trees. Charlotte Gould
The Public Eye
The Wire (Single)
Hailing from Derby, these indie rockers bring a Fontaines D.C. vibe, but with their own edgy twist. The song's dynamic mix of instruments and thoughtful lyrics creates a powerful experience. If you're into indie with a punch, The Wire is a must-listen - it's like The Public Eye have mastered the art of capturing emotion in every riff and lyric. Conall Stacey
2079
Sky Blue Happiness (Single)
Building up in layers, beginning with some moody, melancholy guitar strums before the drum rhythms drive the track forward, Sky Blue Happiness by 2079 is a track which is tinged with emo influence. It perfectly captures the essence of the band's signature sound, blending raw energy with introspective lyrics, discussing the struggle of having to give up your dreams to work towards something more stable - something that many fellow musicians and creatives will sadly relate to in these turbulent times. Gemma Cockrell
Ben Mark Smith
Afire (Single)
Ben Mark Smith’s voice sounds mellow but subtly tinted with life experiences as he settles into this long, lazy, caressing groove. As it builds carefully around a beautifully simple melody, the song deftly combines tried and tested songwriting techniques with a strong sense of purpose as Ben sets out his heart-rendingly emotive tale. It’s a timeless story of the two sides of love - its healing grace and the sacrifice it requires - and ultimately of realisation and surrender. This is powerful and relatable, and a fabulous listen. Phil Taylor
Mighty Lightweights
Potemkin Village (Album)
Nottingham duo Jem Woolley and Paul Greevy give us their second album Potemkin Village and it's a killer. Imagine a parallel universe where The Buzzcocks and The Libertines decided to join forces and stage a play off against their rival Brian Eno, who is a session musician with Magazine, stick with me on this one. Well crafted ambient pop sounds, great moving bass lines that weave through catchy chord progressions, lyrics with a social conscience and two hands full of songs that deserve many plays. My personal favourites on the album are Left Behind, Dear Joe, Standards and Trouble In You, but I'll probably add more on a second listen. These guys have developed into a must see local band, miss them at your peril! Bassey
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