Sisteray

2017: Best Tracks

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First published December 2017. Now part of ‘The Best Of Eudaemonia.’ More info via the ABOUT page.

2017 has been one of THE greatest years for new music, many singles and tracks have soundtracked the year from the outset. It is clear that each of these tracks will grow into something special, with some potentially becoming life changing anthems. Below are some of our favourite songs of the year:

The Blinders – Brave New World

Quite possibly the most impactful release this year, “Brave New World” does everything to epitomise the current state of the planet in which we live upon. It is atmospheric and otherworldly, best suited to the live setting.

The Blinders have already seen an explosion in support throughout 2017, their early 2018 tour is a sign of things to come. They are a band with so much talent and political insight, their sound is effortless and their lyrics become an at times era defining commentary for the masses.

Bang Bang Romeo – Natural Born Astronaut

No song brings as much positivity as “Natural Born Astronaut,” it fills us with both hope and excitement. Lyrically on point and vocally sensational there is nothing to not like about this song. 

Bang Bang Romeo have been onto something quite special this year having performed at festivals across the country alongside the historic ‘This Feeling Alive Tour’ with bands such as The Shimmer Band and BlackWaters. Ultimately, ‘Natural Born Astronaut” is already a classic in our eyes.

Sheafs – This Is Not A Protest

One of the most uplifting, anthemic songs in a while, Sheafs’ latest single is a force to be reckoned with. Catchy guitar riffs dominate with stellar chorus’ and lyricism throughout. This is amazing in the life setting, circle pits and crowd surfing galore prove that Sheafs are one of the most intriguing live bands out there right now. 

Calva Louise – Getting Closer

Calva Louise are one of London’s most impressive, uplifting bands at the minute. Their single “Getting Closer” has been ferocious and gained numerous lines of support in the process. It mixes genius guitar riffs with catchy lyricism to create a fine mix of heavy and upbeat sound.

Their punky charm is unmissable, what a year 2018 will be for Calva Louise!

Tom Grennan – Found What I’ve Been Looking For

Tom Grennan has risen through the industry this year, 2018 will be eagerly anticipated for it shall see the release of his debut album. The Bedford born singer is insanely likeable and “Found What I’ve Been Looking For” displays all the hallmarks of his incredible ability.

It clearly hasn’t been a bad year for someone who only drunkenly discovered their singing ability during a pub singalong!

Self Esteem – Your Wife

Produced by Django Django’s Dave Mclean, Slow Club’s Rebecca Lucy Taylor’s Self Esteem is something quite intriguing. Lead single “Your Wife” questions the freedom of the male dominated world. Lyrically it is second to none, Taylor’s abilities are nothing short of mesmerising.

Yak – All I Need Is Some Sunshine In My Life

Produced by Kevin Parker, “All I Need Is Some Sunshine In My Life” represents a successful return in preparation for their all important second album, it is nothing short of mesmerising. Opening with a confident yet tranquil mix of effects and distortion, the track mixes all the best elements of the London based band. 

It rapidly converts to mass energy and explosion. This is something in which the band are effortlessly good at, it is rare to see a band as raw and expressive as Yak are.

Babe Punch – Control

BABEPUNCH are arguably the most active, well loved band in Nottingham’s ever growing music scene right now. “Control” has a chorus worth dying for and is incredibly well produced. 

They are one of the country’s most impressive upcoming bands, their debut single is second to none and rightly features in such an end of year list!

Insecure Men – Teenage Toy

Insecure Men’s second single is no doubt their most impressive. Formed by Saul of Fat White Family fame alongside Ben Romans-Hopcraft and Nathan Saoudi, the band present a new direction of musical diversity and meaning.

Its at times dark lyricism is juxtaposed with its upbeat, catchy sound. The band are on tour next year, you must catch them live!

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds – Holy Mountain

One of the biggest names on the list, though such a change in musical direction merits this. Produced by David Holmes and taken from no.1 selling album ‘Who Built The Moon?’, “Holy Mountain is perhaps the stand out track on the whole album.

It is similar yet so different to anything he has ever done in the past. Strong chorus and lyricism is no doubt present, though the inclusion of brass sections, different vocal melodies and ever changing riffs gives it all the elements of a 60s bop mixed with an 80s dance classic. 

Trampolene – Storm Heaven

Taken from their debut album ‘Swansea To Hornsey,’ “Storm Heaven” is one of the most impressive, atmospheric anthems we’ve heard for a while. It mixes all of the best aspects of Trampolene’s sound and in many ways is one of the remarkable tracks they’ve ever released. 

Trampolene are currently on tour with Liam Gallagher and owning their sets in massive live arenas. If anyone deserves it it’s them!

BlackWaters – Let The Good Times Roll

BlackWaters have been one of the years stand out artists, their punky melodies and youthful lyricism is second to none. “Let The Good Times Roll” is catchy and listenable, you’ll never forget it from first listen onwards. The band have been ever active throughout the year at festivals and beyond, their sets during ‘This Feeling’s Alive Tour’ were both intense and intriguing. 

Once again, 2018 is gonna be a crackin year for these boys!

Sisteray – Queen’s English

We fell in love with Sisteray from the outset, their politically relevant sound is exciting and refreshing. 

It is lyrically where the song comes into a league of its own, just about calling out pretty much everyone in modern politics and establishment. In theory, there are more sends in “Queens English” than in the most popular of modern rap albums, though unlike opposite contemporaries Sisteray are creating a social commentary like no other.

White Room – Stole The I.V.

White Room recently released double EP ‘Eight’ to massive critical acclaim. “Stole The I.V.” is one of THE stand out tracks, its chorus is unreal and entirely memorable. It is no surprise that they are festival favourites, in many ways the single is THE perfect festival sing along. 

Think a modern version of Pulp’s Common People with some of the strongest guitar based sounds we’ve heard in a while.

Brown Lion Zoo – Get Up

Brown Lion Zoo are Nottingham’s most impressive new band, BBC Radio Introducing have already had this one all over the airwaves in the last few months or so. “Get Up” is the perfect starting point for the new listener. 

It is energetic and well suited to the live setting, of which their local shows are becoming all the more famous. With a rapid rise expected, 2018 will be a surreal year for Brown Lion Zoo!

WOWH – Early Hours

WOWH are sensational, their effortless musical ability is enabling them an ever growing fan base and strong recommendations from press alike.

The duo made up of Nick Harrison and Toby Couling mix multi instrumentalist talents with catchy, relevant lyricism to create the perfect funk-pop track, “Early Hours” is THE perfect example of this.

Paves – Baby

Described by Radio X as the perfect “summer anthem,” Paves’ latest single “Baby” is arguably their best yet. Infectious guitar riffs mix with heavenly lyricism to create somewhat of an emerging stadium anthem. 

It has wowed fans across the country in small venues and festival alike and is no doubt one of the strongest new rock and roll songs out there right now!

The Shimmer Band – Jacknife And The Death Call 

The Bristol formed band have an obvious psychedelic sound, a perfect mixture of effects and guitar which makes them incredibly suited to the live setting. 

“Jacknife And The Death Call” incorporates all of this, its heavy verse and chorus wouldn’t seem out of place in the smallest of venues nor the largest of stadiums.

First published December 2017. Now part of ‘The Best Of Eudaemonia.’ More info via the ABOUT page.

Eudaemonia Live

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First published October 2017. Now part of ‘The Best Of Eudaemonia.’ More info via the ABOUT page.

From its inception Eudaemonia has had an aim of bringing upcoming new bands and music into limelight. The necessity for a live gig has always been in the forefront of our minds. With this comes Eudaemonia Live, Nottingham’s newest celebration of some of the best new bands the city and beyond has to offer!

Here’s an insight into Sisteray, Brown Lion Zoo and Lighthouse who will play Eudaemonia Live #1 at Nottingham’s Maze on 12.10.2017:

Sisteray:

We cannot hide our love for these boys, they have taken London by storm and already have a reputation like no other. Having just launched their own club night in Paris, Sisteray come to Nottingham on the top of their game. Their live set is mesmerising as a result of their raw energy and infectious sound.

Songs such as “Queen’s English” and “White Knuckle Joy Ride” taken from latest EP release ’15 Minutes’ are both exceptional. They mix punk-like guitar chords with relevant lyricism to create confident, energetic tracks which are best suited to the live setting. Quite frankly, Sisteray have one of the most impressive live sets going, they’ve wowed festival crowds across the country this year already, Nottingham is in for one hell of a treat!

Brown Lion Zoo:

Formed locally at university, Brown Lion Zoo have already made massive waves into the local music scene. Their impressive outings at small venues across town are constantly gaining more and more support, in many ways they are THE most talked about upcoming band in Nottingham right now.

Forget all that though, let their sound do the talking. Their recent EP release ‘Where’s My Sandwich’ is nothing short of impressive. Already it is one of our favourite releases of the year, songs such as “Desire” and “Get Up” are not only well technically produced but are entirely listenable. Brown Lion Zoo are quite possibly one of Nottingham’s best new exports, their potential is limitless.

Lighthouse:

Lighthouse are the epitome of great sounds and huge potential. Their music is infectious and well structured, it won’t be long before they have a reputation across the country starting with their debut Nottingham gig.

Recent double A side release ‘Brown Bottle Flu/Loaded’ is a firm example of their musical abilities. Both catchy and well presented, it is symbolic perhaps of bands such as Palma Violets and The Libertines though with an entirely unique twist. Given the quality of their future release we can only recommend them profusely!

Eudaemonia Live #1 takes place on Thursday 12th October at Nottingham’s Maze. All profits will be donated to Mind, they provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.

Ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/eudaemonia-live-1-w-sisteray-brown-lion-zoo-more-tickets-37876162622

First published October 2017. Now part of ‘The Best Of Eudaemonia.’ More info via the ABOUT page.

Focus: Sisteray

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First published January 2017. Now part of ‘The Best Of Eudaemonia.’ More info via the ABOUT page.

To many, the modern music industry is bleak and unforgiving. Not only does the British music scene struggle to nurture and prioritise the growth of small bands, it also favours the rich, bigoted institutional record companies. However, with such a strong message of unity and anti-establishment hints, Sisteray’s punk rock ethos is a much needed response to all of this.

2016 has been incredibly fruitful for the London based band, a year of relentless gigging, festival appearances and a string of well received new tracks. Alongside this, they have also appeared regularly on a range of radio shows as well as the highly acclaimed ‘BBC Introducing’ programme. 

Perhaps the most prominent of their releases this year is the single “A Wise Man Said.” With obvious guitar chords and catchy lyricism the track is incredibly resemblant to the chaotic melodies of early Libertines material. It is in the live setting where this song flourishes best, often inciting rapturous stage invasions and raucous crowd involvement.

Most impressive is Sisteray’s obvious underlying political and social messages. The band are strong supporters of the survival of grass-root music venues and recently played as part of the Music Venue Trust’s fundraising gig at Camden’s Roundhouse. In addition to this, the Londoners are also keen to emphasise the dangers of the modern world and its capitalist values, the most obvious example of this being their track “Gentrification.” Their attention to social and political issues is incredibly rare but most necessary in a time of uncertainty in both the music industry and beyond.

2016 also saw the release of their latest single, “Who R Ya.” Production wise, this song may perhaps be their most impressive release to date, it was produced by Rory Atwell (Vaccines, Palma Violets) at Lightship 95 and mixes all of Sisteray’s stereotypical strong points. Much like previous singles “A Wise Man Said” and “No Escape” it includes heavy drum beats and catchy guitar solos.

Having recently been signed to Vallance Records, the prospect of nationwide tours and even more media appearances, one can only assume that Sisteray will grow even more so as 2017 looms.

First published January 2017. Now part of ‘The Best Of Eudaemonia.’ More info via the ABOUT page.

2017 Watchlist

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First published January 2017. Now part of ‘The Best Of Eudaemonia.’ More info via the ABOUT page.

One of the key concepts behind Eudaemoniablog is its focus on new and upcoming talent throughout the UK and beyond. With that in mind, here is our 2017 watchlist, five band who we think will be huge as the year progresses.

Trampolene:

2016 has been the year in which Trampolene have come to great prominence, not least helped by the inclusion of leader singer Jack Jones amongst a certain Peter Doherty’s set up. Not only has he opened for the Libertines at arenas with elegant poetry but Jones also plays a predominant role as a guitarist amongst Doherty’s band, the Purta Madres. 

However, perhaps the single most important aspect of Trampolene’s growth has been a discovery of more melodic, intrinsic songs which have featured amongst numerous pocket albums throughout the year. The most obvious example of this comes in the form of “Blue Balls & A Broken Heart” from ‘Pocket Album 5 (Divided Kingdom.) 

Recent years have seen the band release numerous EP’s, sell out many venues across the country and achieve mass radio play. Perhaps 2017 will be the year that we see a debut album, one thing is for sure that the Welsh outfit are certain for even more growth and popularity as time goes on.

Sisteray:

As the featured band in our first ever ‘focus’ series, you can tell we are big fans of the London band. Sisteray are perhaps the most proactive band in the whole of the capital at the minute, gigging regularly but also increasing their support of key issues such as anti-establishment and anti-gentrification.

2016 saw the band release two equally well supported singles in the form of “A Wise Man Said” and “Who R Ya,” both of which were met with great anticipation from press and fans alike. Alongside this, the ‘Libertines-inspired’ band featured at many festivals across the UK alongside headlining many venues in London and beyond.

If 2016 was successful for the band, trend suggests that 2017 can only see them achieving even more success.

Cabbage:

With the release of their EP compilation entitled ‘Young Dumb and Full of….’ we can only assume that 2017 will see the release of a debut album from Cabbage. The intense Manchester band are arguably poised to see mass growth and a rise much like Blossoms in 2016.

Such exposure is mostly an ode to their impressive, heavy and increasingly relevant sound which has been obviously consistent in all of their four previous EP releases. This is perhaps best expressed through the song “Uber Capitalist Death Trade,” perhaps the perfect starting place for the new listener. It features crunching guitar chords, intrinsic drum beats and most importantly relevant, anti capitalist lyricism. 

Early 2017 sees the Manchester based band embark on a near-sold out headline tour across established UK venues. In addition to this, they form part of an impressive supporting cast for the Courteeners’ largest headline show to date at Manchester’s Old Trafford Cricket ground. However, with such mass appeal and growth one can only assume even larger dates of their own as the year comes to a close.

Crosa Rosa:

Spawning from Nottingham’s growing music scene, Crosa Rosa’s ‘wobbly rock’ sound is perhaps one of the most interesting of its kind.

Featuring three members and a heavy, pedal effects dominated sound, it is perhaps fair to describe the band as an intrinsic amalgamation of The Wytches and Nirvana. The previous two years have been extremely successful for the band, regularly featuring at large festivals and performing to sold out crowds of their own.

Their debut EP “Pantaphobia” incorporates perhaps the heaviest side of Crosa Rosa’s sound, though at times still creating effortless melodies along with a softer side to their songwriting. Their second release, “Candy Eyes EP” continues to build upon the initial. Tracks such as “Like A Lady” and “Tainted Lover” are an obvious highlight, both of which are suited well to the live setting.

With such an already strong following created through 2 strong EP releases we can only assume the Crosa Rosa name will continue to grow throughout 2017 and beyond.

The Jacques:

Perhaps the most established name on the list, The Jacques have existed for a number of years. Having been signed to Gary Powell of The Libertines’ label they have already seen some great success. However, with a new line up and a somewhat new approach to their sound 2017 symbolises the second coming of the band.

“Eleanor Ring Me,” their latest single, somewhat epitomises this. The track features heavier guitar cords and much distortion. Interestingly, it also makes use of a somewhat poetically spoken verse. This contrast greatly to their “Pretty DJ EP” which was released in 2014 featuring well loved tracks including “Weekend” and “Foreign Films.”

Overall, the sound of The Jacques is a clever mix of heavy chords and strong lyricism. It will be interesting to see how such a sound adapts to a new line up and future releases.

First published January 2017. Now part of ‘The Best Of Eudaemonia.’ More info via the ABOUT page.