Tag: Indie Rock

The XX.

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The XX

The XX are a musical group from London specializing in indie pop/rock. Formed in 2005, the group came together to create simple, but effective, music. Living up to the indie genre, the music they create is definitely individual, standing out in the music industry.

Releasing their first album “XX” in 2009 the group received much praise for their individuality and great music. In the same year they won the Mercury Music Prize and were ranked as “one of the best of year” in the Rolling Stone.

The XX’s sound works well because of the dual voices used. The males soothing deep tones compliment that of the females and accompanied by simple acoustics the music molds together perfectly.

The band’s music is simple but catchy with their warming tones creating the perfect ambience for a night by an open fire or a time of relaxation. Due to release an album this year, fans are excited see if the new material can triumph over that of the legendary “XX.” Lets just hope they don’t disappoint.

Arctic Monkeys.

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Arctic Monkeys

The Arctic Monkeys are a four-piece all male band, formed from the suburbs of Sheffield. Specializing in Indie Rock the band boomed in 2005 receiving much praise from the BBC radio stations and the tabloids. Due to release their third album in June, people all over the glob are excited to see what this new album will entail.

Releasing their first album “Whatever People Say I am, That’s What I’m Not,” in January 2006 the band reeked much success. With hits such as “I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor” and “When The Sun Goes Down” hitting the charts and clubs people of ages would dance to the catchy songs knowing the words word for word. Their northern tones and quirky lyrics captured the nation.

A year later in April 2007, the band released their second album “Favourite Worst Nightmare.” Although sounding similar to the first album it included more heavy tones, which didn’t appeal as much too many. A couple of songs will always be remembered because of their release into the charts but the rest many would not know.  In my opinion you can’t beat the originality of the first album but the second is still superb.

In 2009 “Humbug” was realized. With a less rocky and more melancholic sound the album was less successful. Although the songs included great lyrics and rhythms, the new sound of Arctic Monkeys just wasn’t for the public.

This June the group’s fourth album “Suck It And See” will be released. I guess we can only hope that they bring fourth their originality f]and create an album which is outstanding.

Razorlight.

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Razorlight!

Razorlight are an indie rock band from England. Famed for the track “America,” the group formed in 2002. Lead by quirky lead singer Johnny Borell, the 4-piece band has both character and charm. Some even compare the group to The Who.

Setting out by practicing in a decaying factory, the four-piece band has gone on to achieve great things. The group’s first album, “Up all night” debuted in 2004, wreaking much success and coming 3rd in the UK album charts.

After a two-year break, in 2006, the band released their second album, “Razorlight.” The second album was much improved and the songs were catchy, different and alternate, consequently leading it to achieve #1 in the charts.

As the band moved up higher in the charts their music progressed greatly, sounding better and better. Their popularity grew as they gained more recognition and in 2007 the band were nominated for two BRIT Awards. These included Best British band and Best Song for their single, “America“.

In 2008 the band released their next album “Slipway fires.” The album was more soulful and heartfelt compared to the previous albums but it still contained the passion that had led to their success.

Razorlight are a great band, their music is unique and fun, and  with a character like Johnny Borell  as the front man the band can really do no harm.

Give them a listen!

Foals.

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Foals
Foals are an indie rock band from Oxford, England. Debuting in 2008 with their first album “Antidotes“, the band went on to releasing their second album, ”Total life forever” which was nominated for a Mercury Music Prize.

Their first album gained much success coming third in the UK album charts. Full of drumbeats and fast tempos the songs put the listener in a happy mood. Aimed at the indie scene the album emits the sense of summer frivolity and fun. With strong lyrics and pulsing melodies, the album makes a stand against the typical music one would classify as indie. Incorporating a range of instruments, the music stands out with its guitar rifts and use of the occasional synth.

“Red Sock Pugie,” the third track from the first album, “Antidotes“.

In comparison “Total life forever” is a mellower album focusing more on the vocals than on fast rhythms and tempos. Soothing, relaxing and calming the album allows the listener to unwind through the 25 tracks. Although still including the famous drumbeats the songs have a more peaceful nature, perfect for a car journey through the countryside.

The contrast of albums shows how over the years the band has developed. Unlike many bands that focus on the same “fail safe” sound they experiment using different tones, instruments and vocals.

Foals are a great band that, I’d recommend anyone to listen to.

“Blue Blood,” the opening track from the second album, “Total life Forever“.