Monday 19 November 2012

The Ok Social Club play Edinburgh's Hogmanay / New Single 'Gezellig'


                     
The Ok Social Club are undoubtedly one of Scotland's brightest young bands. Formed in the summer of 2011, the 4-piece draw from a diverse range of influences from 50's girl groups to 70's punk, exhibiting guitar driven foot stomping rhythms and unforgettable hooks.

2012 has seen the release of the band’s first two singles The Shape Of Things To Come and The Late 90’s which have won them praise and exposure via the likes of Soccer AM, BBC Radio Scotland’s Janice Forsyth show ‘Single Of The Month‘, MTV, Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, Hollyoaks, Steve Lamacq’s Rebel Playlist Winner on BBC 6 Music, and playlisting in Topshop stores worldwide including 10 weeks in the New York store.

The Daily Record said of their debut single “If they can stay this good they are Scotland’s next big band.”

Their first Scottish tour has included sold out shows in Edinburgh and Glasgow and has helped The OK Social Club build a following all over the country.

2013 is gearing up to be an exciting year for the band, with the release of their debut album Nothing In Common along with a full-scale UK tour.

Preceding that, as a further taster for the album a new single 'Gezellig' is released on December 17th, and to round off a highly successful 12 months, the band are to perform at Edinburgh's legendary Hogmanay celebrations. Front-man Raff Eragona says "We're excited to be part of the biggest New Years Eve party in the world, we're very proud to be representing new Scottish music and if everyone's as up for it as we are, it's going to be some night!". 

New single 'Gezellig' is released December 17th on Platform Records in association with James Watt College label Clydebuilt Records.

http://musicelevatorpr.amazingtunes.com/tunes/155009

The Ok Social Club play Edinburgh's Hogmanay on The Waverley Stage from 8pm. Other acts include The Maccabees.


http://www.platformrecords.co.uk  



Tuesday 13 November 2012

The Ok Social Club to play Edinburgh's Hogmanay 2012/13


                     
The Ok Social Club are undoubtedly one of Scotland's brightest young bands. Formed in the summer of 2011, the 4-piece draw from a diverse range of influences from 50's girl groups to 70's punk, exhibiting guitar driven foot stomping rhythms and unforgettable hooks.

2012 has seen the release of the band’s first two singles The Shape Of Things To Come and The Late 90’s which have won them praise and exposure via the likes of Soccer AM, BBC Radio Scotland’s Janice Forsyth show ‘Single Of The Month‘, MTV, Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, Hollyoaks, Steve Lamacq’s Rebel Playlist Winner on BBC 6 Music, and playlisting in Topshop stores worldwide including 10 weeks in the New York store.

The Daily Record said of their debut single “If they can stay this good they are Scotland’s next big band.”

Their first Scottish tour has included sold out shows in Edinburgh and Glasgow and has helped The OK Social Club build a following all over the country.

2013 is gearing up to be an exciting year for the band, with the release of their debut album Nothing In Common along with a full-scale UK tour.

But just before that, and to round off a highly successful 12 months, the band are to perform at Edinburgh's legendary Hogmanay celebrations. Front-man Raff Eragona says "We're excited to be part of the biggest New Years Eve party in the world, we're very proud to be representing new Scottish music and if everyone's as up for it as we are, it's going to be some night!". 

The Ok Social Club play The Waverley Stage from 8pm. Other acts include The Maccabees.


http://www.platformrecords.co.uk  



Thursday 25 October 2012

DEAD SEA SOULS - Reviews of album 'WE WERE ALWAYS ELECTRIC' incl new single 'TRENDSETTER'.













(DAILY RECORD)
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Managing to pack the strength of their live shows on to the frailty of a compact disk, Dead Sea Souls debut sounds like a grenade going off beside your head. We Were Always Electric jumps, jives and is forever changing – creating a collection of songs that not only excite but keep you perpetually off balance for its dizzying 40 minutes.

After a waltzing intro jam the album opens up into the behemoth that is ‘Trendsetter’. Deceptively anthemic, lead singer Gary Burns’ vocals come dripping in equal measures of passion and venom. A return volley against another band’s criticism of the West Lothian four-piece, the stinging chorus of “I’m so sorry that I don’t dress the way you like/I’ll never be in NME/And I’m not worthy of your time” is a broadside against the posers and phoneys that the Scottish music scene attracts in their droves. Safe to say the Dead Sea Souls had the last word here.

The only criticism of ‘Trendsetter’ could be that it casts a long shadow; taking the sting out of the following few tracks. However things are once again heading skywards on ‘Six’. More a refined 21st century ballad than supercharged riot, its restrained riffs and pulsating drums demonstrates a level of finesse on top of the band’s palpable power.

Next track ‘Young Team’ acts as a charming foil to this slice of solemnity, sounding delightfully juvenile and showing that they are a band with a song for every occasion. Jangling vocals and funky guitars breeze their way through this short interlude before it’s back to the bread and butter of indie rock on ‘New Vibe’.

Album closer ‘Danny Bell’ kicks off like a South American carnival – all trumpets and chants – before returning to Burns’ swinging vocals. Its ska beats leave the album on a particularly high note as the band metaphorically dance off into the distance.

We Were Always Electric is an album that spans genres and should have something to keep everybody entertained. Bristling with energy and exuberance, it is a listening experience that will only be enhanced by seeing the band in the flesh.
We Were Always Electric is out now http://deadseasouls.bandcamp.com/album/we-were-always-electric

http://www.theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2012/10/album-review-dead-sea-souls-we-were-always-electric/



Dead Sea Souls (of West Lothian, Scotland) have developed quite a reputation for their powerful, anthemic live performances.These guys put everything into their live shows and their unique flavor of indie power pop disco funk is a ride you don’t want to miss.

Recently being picked up by Platform Songs Publishing, these guys are quickly gaining momentum. Listen and watch the video for their new single, Trendsetter, below (off of We Were Always Electric).

Dead Sea Souls deliver energetic, upbeat, funky tunes reminiscent of Twin Atlantic or the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Every song delivers that rush of energy you feel on Friday after a long week at work.These guys have been selling out shows across Scotland. It’s only a matter of time before they cross the borders.

via the band's bio:

Dead Sea Souls have built a huge following on all social media site’s and an ever growing mailing list, which has helped them play with an ever loyal following in all of the major venue’s throughout central Scotland. Support slots to the likes of The Sunshine Underground, The View, Ocean Colour Scene, Stornoway and many others shows that all of Scotland’s music promoters know they can turn to the Dead Sea Souls to deliver an outstanding live show.

There you have it folks. Don’t sleep on Dead Sea Souls.
Now, if you don’t mind, I will commence to rocking out at full volume!

http://www.midtnmusic.com/dead-sea-souls-want-you-to-realize-we-were-always-electric/

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West Lothian skanking. And some very knowing lyrics about the cynicism and snobbery of the music scene, especially at the unsigned end of things. One for fans of Twin Atlantic's high-energy riffery. (THE LIST)
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“We Were Always Electric” is, undeniably, a stellar album, representing a tremendous offering from the Dead Sea Souls. Especially in terms of its accessibility and the consistency with which it displays quality musicianship and meaningful lyrics. Gary Burns’ wonderfully melodious vocals and bass playing are complemented expertly by James Sweeney’s mastery of the guitar, Colin Sneddon’s great six-string performances and David Clark’s rhythmic drum beats. It is understandable then, that all of the album’s 10 tracks are excellent, and are not let down by any pointless `filler’ tracks.

Particularly emotional and heart rendering tracks include; “Trendesetter,” “Raincoat,” the stunningly haunting “Six,” where Gary Burns’ vocal exceeds all expectations, “New Vibe” and the very danceable mover, “Cagefighter.”

The Dead Sea Souls appear to have significantly stretched the indie musical boundaries with this release, managing to encapsulate an earnestness and emotiveness together with a polished production that many indie bands rarely achieve.

While the album retains the band’s raw edge, especially through hard-hitting songs such as “My Problem” and the upbeat “Punk B-Side”, it also introduces a wealth of songs based around beautiful vocal harmonies and soaring melodies. The moving “Six” illustrates this point perfectly, as it stands as the most poignantly beautiful five minutes on this album and anything else I’ve heard this entire year.

Notwithstanding their melodic edge, the band never sink into a soppy, dull rock act. Even the album’s most tender moments either maintain a degree of intensity or are balanced out by more unrefined moments, culminating into an aurally appealing contrast.

All in all, after careful consideration of the album’s 10 superb songs, I would have to say that “We Were Always Electric” is a rocking, lyrically-rich, orchestral monster of an album that is home to some of the most powerful, uplifting pop-rock vocals, guitar riffs and rhythmic hooks I have heard, to date this year.

The album attains five stars from me, just for the song “Six,” alone; added to “Cagefighter” and its fellow 8 stand-out tracks, this album is easily worthy of so much more than just the five stars allowed.

Do your record collection a favour and be the envy of your friends, by not missing this excellent album by the Dead Sea Souls. Buy it now!

http://jamsphere.com/reviews/dead-sea-souls-we-were-always-electric-a-monster-of-an-album
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Continuing the worldwide search for great music has led me to some interesting places.  The truth is that there is phenomenal music in every country if you take the time to look for it.  Today we ventured into the unheralded country of Scotland to find the next great alternative rock band.  What we found was the Dead Sea Souls.
Hailing from West Lothian in Central Scotland, Dead Sea Souls has built themselves up as the go to rock band to support the largest acts playing in the country.  They are known for their high energy performances and their crowd engaging anthems.  Their sound is hard to pin down as it has elements of alternative rock mixed with dashes of funk, indie rock, and even disco.  The band consider themselves working class heroes and try to bring that Friday night after work feeling to each of their shows.  Lead singer Gary Burns says “we are mainly a band that puts everything into our live performances and we believe we have delivered exactly that on this upcoming album, with a few extra special treats”.
Now the Dead Sea Souls are ready to introduce themselves to the world with their debut album, We Were Always Electric, on Big Rock Candy Records.  The energy transfers well to the album on songs like ‘My Problem’ and ‘Punk B-Side’.  Bouncy alt-rock songs that are sure to make a crowd move.  Dead Sea Souls are able to slow it down as well with the heartfelt ‘Six’.  Burns really shows off his vocal skills on this one.  If I had to compare them to another band I would lean towards The Hives or fellow Scots Franz Ferdinand.  The highlight track of the album has to be the lead single ‘Trendsetter’.  The song grabs the listener right away with its sing along feel.  The song is raw energy from start to finish.  It is also has some real meaning to the band as a reaction to the exclusivity of the local band circuit in Scotland.
Bottom line: We Were Always Electric by Dead Sea Souls is a great overall record that could fit in well with any alternative rock playlist.  Go check them out for yourself at:
And give the record a listen at:

http://indiebandguru.com/dead-sea-scrolls-the-search-for-great-alt-rock-from-scotland-is-complete
----------------------------------------------------

The Scottish roots of the Dead Sea Souls are evident in their debut album We Were Always Electric: irresistible, charming and vibrant. The instant hook of their intro track is enough to get your toes tapping and ears listening, awaiting the vocals to kick in but totally content with just the instruments.

Upbeat and with a slight hint of ska in the jagged guitar riffs, single ‘Trendsetter’ is a sure-fire hit. What’s more, the energy of the track in fun. ‘You wouldn’t know one if it smacked you in the face my friend’ as just one of the brilliantly blunt but charismatically sung lyrics. The rolling ‘r’s’ of the Scottish drawling vocals are perfect, adding something different to the band.
Highlight ‘My Problem’ demonstrates this in all its glory. When you listen you can imagine exactly what the band would be like live, idea for summer festivals of gigs that brighten those winter days.
Their tracks are tunes you can dance to, at a gig or in your room – depending on your preference. With a quicker paced rhythm than the likes of Twin Atlantic, this idiosyncrasy gives the band an advantage that should see them go far. * * * * *
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Tuesday 11 September 2012

Listen to DEAD SEA SOULS - Trendsetter (Radio Edit) by Music Elevator PR at amazingtunes.com

Listen to DEAD SEA SOULS - Trendsetter (Radio Edit) by Music Elevator PR at amazingtunes.com

DEAD SEA SOULS sign to Platform Songs

A brand new signing to Platform Songs Publishing, DEAD SEA SOULS have quickly become one of the most exciting bands on the Scottish gig scene, having played across the country delivering an energetic and anthemic performance. The band are now set to release their new single ‘Trendsetter’, the second track to be lifted from their debut album ‘We Were Always Electric’, on Big Rock Candy Records.

Descending from West Lothian, you could compare their vocal sounds to that of Twin Atlantic, and it’s not hard to hear an influence from The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, with the upbeat guitar a prominent feature of the DSS sound. This mixed with their unique spin, makes for some melodious high-powered tunes.

‘Trendsetter’ is a prime example of their raw talent. The track starts with some sing along interjections, the guitar and drums in sync to make a fun and bouncy track. The song also has some real meaning behind it, focusing on the judgements made on the competitive band circuit. Lead singer and bassist Gary Burns says: “Writing ‘Trendsetter’ was a reaction to some pretty unfair criticism from another band. The unsigned circuit is an amazing place to see bands and make lasting friendships but it can also be a competitive environment! The song itself is I suppose … a protest against the exclusive nature of aspects of our music scene. The band in question came to play a hometown show of ours and passed judgement on our style and fanbase, blatant snobbery! The song came together very fast, and the groove was a natural thing for the band. The final lyric (maybe a bit aggressive on reflection) references a fellow West Lothian artist and songwriter, Ewan Butler.”

‘We Are Always Electric’ takes Dead Sea Souls up to the next level on the circuit, with their fun melodies, energy, and hooks. Gary Burns says: “The album is a real mix of material for us. Some songs have existed in one form or another for a number of years and others were written weeks before going into the studio! We really went for it on the dance front. We are all massive fans of real dance music and it’s pretty well reflected in the album overall. The general idea we were trying to put across is that we are a fun band. We like to make upbeat music but try to think about the lyrics and how the song comes across in melody and groove. The goal is to make you dance, simple as that.”

The album features a blend of upbeat dance, indie, and alternative music. The track ‘Danny Bell’ provides a mix of horns and bass, its ska punk vibes make it the perfect festival skanking track. There is no need to stop dancing to this album - even ‘Scenester’ starts as a slower track, but progresses towards a great dance beat. There really isn’t a single track on the album that you can’t sing and dance along too, as every chorus has fantastic brash melodies. Gary Burns also says of their debut long-player:

“We are immensely proud of our album, it is produced in a way which is true to how we perform. Meaning we can always back up this material when we are on stage, which is the whole point after all!!”

Dead Sea Souls have spent much of the last year perfecting their phenomenal live act, with sell out shows across Scotland. They are currently promoting the single and album with a string of dates - check website for details.

The single 'Trendsetter' is released on November 5th 2012.

(Victoria Purcell, September 2012)

http://facebook.com/deadseasouls http://twitter.com/deadseasouls http://deadseasouls.com

Monday 11 June 2012

The Ok Social Club - new single - 'The Late 90's'

'The Late 90’s' is the second single from Edinburgh's The OK Social Club, to be released July 9th 2012 on Platform Records. This follows their successful debut 'The Shape of Things to Come', which came out in March 2012.

As well as being featured on Sky Sports’ Soccer AM and being chosen as Single of The Month on BBC Scotland’s Janice Forsyth Show, The Shape of Things to Come also won Steve Lamacq’s rebel playlist against The Futureheads and Tribes. The track was also aired on BBC 6 Music, XFM,Q Radio and in Topshop stores throughout the UK.

The Daily Record said of the debut single “If they can stay this good they are Scotland’s next big band.” The guys believe that their follow-up single will build on this success and are delighted that people are keen to hear more.

Bassist Gordy Burn says '' The Shape of Things to Come was an introduction to what the band sound like, but The Late 90's shows our punk side and gives people a taste of our live energy.”

''It’s great that people are eager to hear more from us, We want to release new stuff as much as we can, that’s why we’re putting a couple of B-sides on each of our singles” adds the bands frontman Raff Eragona. “Expectations are high and that’s a good thing, it keeps us on our toes.”

Their first Scottish tour has included sold out shows in Edinburgh and Glasgow and has helped The OK Social Club build a following all over the country. Dates are now booked across the UK to coincide with the release of The Late 90’s.

The Late 90's is released July 9th on Platform Records.

Saturday 28 April 2012

SUSAN FASSBENDER and KAY RUSSELL - 'Twilight Cafe - The Demo Collection (1981-1985)'





More than 30 years since 'Twilight Cafe' reached number 21 in the UK charts, Platform Records are delighted to be releasing 'The Demo Collection (1981-1985)', a 20 track album of previously unavailable recordings from Susan Fassbender and Kay Russell.

Available at all download stores from April 30th 2012, the collection includes the original demo version of the duo's hit single, as well as several songs which will be familiar to Fassbender/Russell fans, including several of those featured on the second and final of their CBS 7'' singles. Lots of unearthed gems are included too, and the range of styles and impressive arrangements make up a fantastic 70 minutes of music.

All tracks mastered from cassette by William at Soundworks Studios, Leeds. Additional mastering, sound processing, track compilation and pack shot design by Ewan McKenzie. Pack shot pencil drawings by Dianima.

With grateful thanks to the family of Susan Fassbender, and to Kay Russell.

+ For an exclusive interview with Kay Russell, and a review of the album, CLICK HERE. +



Susan Fassbender
Twilight Cafe (The Demo Collection 1981-1985)
Platform Records
Susan Fassbender's classic hit single 'Twilight Cafe' should have been the springboard to a successful chart career. Chock full of memorable melodic Pop Rock with superb keyboard work it bounced into the charts in February1981 and promised much for her career. Unfortunately two equally infectious follow up singles, both issued as Fassbender-Russell with her songwriting partner Kay Russell, failed to chart and a mooted album never materialised. Sadly, the Yorkshire born musician took her own life in 1991 but thanks to Kay Russell this collection of cassette tape demo's has been cleaned up and transferred to digital and remain as fresh, sparkling and easy on the ear as the day they were committed to tape ensuring that her legacy lives on. This may be on the lighter side of Rock but this does not detract from what is a fine collection of radio friendly Pop Rock.

Steve Ward Classic Rock Society Magazine Review July/August edition 2012.

Monday 2 April 2012

The OK Social Club - 'The Shape Of Things To Come' - reviews round-up.

THE OK SOCIAL CLUB The Shape Of Things To Come ****
Edinburgh upstarts The OK Social Club may be reminiscent of the Strokes, but they manage to hang on to their Scots accent on this slice of pop brilliance.
http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/life/reviews/music-reviews/singles-reviews/2012/03/16/other-singles-march-16-86908-23790333/
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The opening strains of ‘The Shape of Things To Come’ by Edinburgh’s OK Social Club tells you everything you need to know – they’re taking the happier, poppier elements of Scottish music, from Bis to Dananananaykroyd, and they’re updating them for the 21st century.
The debut single from the band, there’s certainly promise on show here. It’s nothing life changing – but then again, whose debut single is these days? – but it is most certainly enjoyable fare from a young band. ‘Shape of Things To Come’ brims with energy, and even shows a nice change of pace as the song moves towards its close, with a singalong coda that should get even the most jaded of gig-goers singing along.

The single is backed up by ‘Twist, Learn, Kick and Scream and ‘Twisted Young Gentlemen’. ‘Twist, Learn, Kick and Scream’ is pretty standard b-side fare, a nice song, but nothing to really take notice of. ‘Twisted Young Gentlemen’, however, is the real hidden gem of this three-track collection. An end-of-night song that bookends the single nicely – opener ‘The Shape of Things To Come’ sings: “What did I do last night/How did I end up here” whilst closer ‘Twisted Young Gentlemen’ says: “And now/All that’s left/Are photographs/And battle scars”.
All in all, ‘The Shape of Things To Come’ is a decent debut single. ‘Twist, Learn, Kick and Scream’ is the only song that doesn’t leave much of an impression, but the other two songs show that there’s certainly promise, and if this is The Shape of Things To Come from The OK Social Club, then maybe it’s worth keeping an ear to the ground.
http://www.isthismusic.com/ok-social-club (3.5 out of 5)
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The OK Social Club - ‘The Shape Of Things To Come’/double B-side, ‘Twist, Learn, Kick and Scream’ and ‘Twisted Young Gentlemen’, Single

Sunny, fresh faced, highly melodic, catchy Indie which bowls along, in well matched harmony, beautifully delicate, nimble, mellow bass, the star, supported by scrunchy, cheerfully careering guitar , energetically optimistic, sensitive drums and soulful vocal, Scottish accent appealingly apparent. Though employing familiarly engaging stock musical phrases, all three songs melodically, memorably endearing, poignant , individual touches providing unexpected pleasure, particularly the break, three quarters though 'The Shape Of Things To Come’, built around wonderfully laconic bass. Twist, Learn, Kick and Scream’ adds touch of ‘60’s Kinks style, in vocal effects and melodic construction, with hints of Bragg and Two Tone, while more contemplative ‘Twisted Young Gentlemen’ , most obviously Indie pop, infectiously anthemic.

http://www.mudkiss.com/chumkimarch12.htm
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Sunshine and lollipops, in the form of The OK Social Club, greet you on The Shape Of Things To Come and just like Hansel and Gretel – you’re going to gorge yourself on their gorgeous, upbeat tunes – a modern spin on REM by us, the dour faced Scots – with feel good indie anthems as the result.

Opener ‘The Shape Of Things To Come’ serves as an explosive, exciting introduction to your new watering hole, fast and energetic – it’s a great way to set the tone.

Next track up, the oddly titled ‘Twist, Learn, Kick And Scream’ drops the tempo, but not the optimism – the indie instrumentation showing a sharper edge, with darker, more abstract lyrics as a result.

Closer ‘Twisted Young Gentlemen’ is an effective encore; simple lines, big choruses and straight grooves allow everybody to participate.

It’s nice to see a band taking a smiling sideways glance at things in what’s becoming an increasingly dark world.

Words: Matthew Slater
http://ravechild.co.uk/2012/03/02/record-review-the-ok-social-club-the-shape-of-things-to-come-platform-records/
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THE OK SOCIAL CLUB "THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME"
(PLATFORM RECORDS)
RELEASED? 2nd April.
SOUNDS LIKE? Interesting,
no sooner has Scotland got
its own and superior version
of Billy Joel in Michael
Maclennan than they go and
produce the very noises that
ye olde Arctic Monkeys
were supposed to be making
all along. The Ok Social
Club perform this neat trick by molecule mining the shafts pre-drilled by Ballboy and whacking in all those clanky basslines that Clor were supposed to save EMI with. That's the short and simple answer to the 'sounds like?' question and it's the only answer that you need because Ballboy are and Clor were damn good and The Ok Social Club are damned good
IS IT ANY GOOD? Yes, it's fair to say that The Ok Social Social Club give me reason for hope.
WHERE IS IT? www.platformrecords.co.ukThat's my brick...
http://www.unpeeled.net/singles.html
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The OK Social Club have been creating a little buzz around certain circles for a while thanks to their brilliant tight live performances of catchy guitar pop with a slightly punk edge.

The band have taken their time with their debut release The Shape of Things to Come, out now on itunes and available to view on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCKSdQ1w2io

A guitar riff appears out of a flurry activity before a catchy acapella vocal takes you off on a guitar-pop trip for three-and-a-half-minutes.

There are echoes of The Cribs and the poppier moments from The Libertines.

The main hook/chorus; You want to see us fail, you love it when we go, a little too far off the rails. is used to good effect throughout the song, turning into a terrace style chant towards the end.

The band pack a lot into the 3-minutes, slowing things down, speeding things up, taking things out, adding bits in. They clearly have an ear for a hook and a melody, two things I am very fond of personally. I am a sucker for a good guitar pop song and this is a good one.

I need to give the record a rating for this website, something I hate to do as it is up to people to make their own minds up. I mean what is a 5/5 record? You Set The Scene by Love, Whats Going On? by Marvin Gaye?

This gets 3/5 for me. Energetic, full of hooks and melodies and promising a lot more. Having seen the band live on a couple of occasions I know they have loads of tunes up their sleeves.
http://www.glasgowmusic.co.uk/ReadReview-213
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Charming early summer stuff here from Edinburgh’s The Ok Social Club who seem to combine the sounds of We Were Promised Jetpacks with The Boo Radleys. 7/10
http://www.tastyfanzine.org.uk/singles121apr12.htm
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Edinburgh scamps The OK Social Club’s dynamic new single is a melodious little ditty that veers from the indie rap sheet of early days Twang and parades the energy of fellow Scots The View.
http://www.shout4music.com/features/this-week-in-singles-242012

Emporium - 'The Umbrella Shop' and 'From Another Planet' - reviews round-up.



*** Singles of the Week ***

Sounding not unlike something that might soundtrack a TV documentary about '90s Brit-pop - St. Etienne would, of course, curate the thing - Emporium's rather gorgeous ability to craft perfectly-honed melodies is certainly not in doubt with this - it's bloody lush. "The Umbrella Shop" (26th Mar - 4.5 stars) is a little bit Pulp (early), a little bit Cherry Ghost with a slice of Cud and a topping of Super Furry Animals. And that's all good. Very good. (4.5 out of 5)

http://www.allgigs.co.uk/view/review/6199/_Singles_Roundup_Featuring_Phantom_Limb_Emporium_Allo_Darlin_Tom_Williams_And_The_Boat_And_More_Singles_Review.html
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BAND FAILING TO SOUND LIKE SOMEONE ELSE

You have to bear in mind that
Emporium are a band who've been active for
fourteen years and they now sound like, well,
they sound like Emporium. For the object of
this particular exercise I can suggest that
sounds like Alan Parsons Project and The
Idle Race are in there, but 'Umbrella Shop'
is really the sound of Emporium in full,
shifting, tinkling, drifting, psyche guitar
studded mode.
IS IT ANY GOOD? It's lovely, Emporium are
lovely, you are lovely, buy the lovely record.
http://www.unpeeled.net/singles.html

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Emporium - ‘The Umbrella Shop’/ ‘She Won’t Come Out To Play’, Single

Beautifully sumptuous sounds, evocative, tender piano paints prettily sparkling motif, mellow bass, steely guitar, orchestral strings and brass, storyteller, choir boy, honeyed vocal whispers warmly illuminated night time tale, washed by gentle chorus, woven seamlessly together into atmospheric epic of gas lit London.

‘She Won’t Come Out To Play’, similarly fully orchestrated and chorused, swings between sunny optimism and melancholic, despondent undertow, maudlin vocal describing sad tale of girl who just can’t face the day.

Both pieces, not structured songs, more sung narrative than poetically lyrical, melodically meandering, descriptive instrumentation, drawing on Classical idioms, showcase and support the star voice and its tale, could be from a, as yet unwritten, Musical score.
http://www.mudkiss.com/chumkimarch12.htm

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Scottish band Emporium kept layered progressive psychedelic pop harmonies alive, releasing a a string of albums and a couple of singles that garnered them rave reviews form the cognoscenti. The trio was basically a studio band, although they did tour for a bit in 1998. The band dropped from the radar in 2007 only to surface again in 2011 with the new album Silver Brainwaves. This year year has brought two new tracks so far: Mindbender and The Umbrella Shop (which will be released a single).

The 17 track collection From Another Planet - The Best Of Emporium (1998-2011) on Whimsical Records serves as handy introduction for newbies. Long time fans can plug the holes in their collection with the rare remixes and one-offs. It's hard to pigeonhole their sound, bur think the poppy songs of Pink Floyd ca. 1970 mixed with Beach Boys orchestral inklings dipped in Zombies-alike Odessey and Oracle melancholy.

Lead singer Ewan McKenzie falsetto gives their songs a pastoral quality that will go down well while lounging on lazy Sunday afternoon (or any other day of the week). Best enjoyed with a bottle of good wine and a basket of tasty tidbits.

http://blogger.xs4all.nl/werksman/archive/2012/03/08/744109.aspx

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For some reason I started off by listening to the latest single release, “The Umbrella Shop”. Described in Scotland’s premier tabloid as “a psychedelic cross between The Small Faces and The Beach Boys”. And for a second I glanced at the calendar and clock to see if time had stopped somewhere in the 60′s.

Emporium produce a retro-pop sound of sweet harmonies and melodies sung over luscious piano, string and horn arrangements, that are almost impossible to find in today’s music which is primarily constructed by loops, samples and beats.

They seem to have captured the essence of world renowned pop music composer, Burt Bacharach’s timeless music pieces, which were characterized by unusual chord progressions, striking syncopated rhythmic patterns, irregular phrasing, frequent modulation, and odd, changing meters.
Throw-in a vocal style which ranges from 60′s bands like the “Beach Boys” or “The Turtles” through to latter day acts like “Soft Cell” or even “OMD”. Plus add some Brit synth-pop rhythms, et voilĂ , ladies and gentleman you have Emporium!

Album highlights include, the watercolored harmonies of “Mindbender”, the beat momentum of “Wasted” and the slower, ethereal lead vocal of “Dice Man”.

My personal favorite track is the haunting “Mind Games”, while other tracks of particular note are “Elevate” and “She Won’t Come Out To Play”.

Seventeen tracks, is a lot of music and I could write page after page describing it, but music needs to be listened to. Needless to say, if you’ve experienced the 60′s musical era you would need no introduction to this album at all, and only have to enjoy it’s nostalgic karma.

However, if you, like many of our younger readers, belong to the new beat generation, my best suggestion would be to get over to the “EMPORIUM” website straight away and savor the sounds of their timeless melodies, set within a genre long gone by, and all but lost to modern music. If not for the stoic and solitary efforts of Scottish band EMPORIUM.

http://jamsphere.com/newreleases/emporium-from-another-planet-the-best-of
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A 14 year anniversary? There seems to be no suggestion for a gift between tin at ten years and crystal at 15 years – perhaps that’s why the vocals gloriously meander around like a lost sheep inside the slightly proggy, psychedelic musical musings of ‘The Umbrella Shop’. Quite strange but not totally unendearing either. 6/10
http://www.tastyfanzine.org.uk/singles120mar12.htm#Emporium
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Hailing from Edinburgh, Scotland - Emporium have just released "From Another Planet - The Best Of Emporium (1998-2011)", a compilation of songs by the Scottish combo containing 17 tracks.

The band has gained a great reputation in the United Kingdom (also covered in world-famous publications such as the NME) because of their very unique sound formula: beat pop (think The Small Faces and Beach Boys) with a psychedelic twist and very interesting arrangements.

Since the very first opening notes, the listener is brought hand in hand into a journey through the songs - the tunes build a very peculiar and dreamy landscape with a very unique vibe that fascinates and intrigues greatly.

Although the band proclaims 60s influences, an 80s touch is also intelligible, while a more modern approach to melody is part of the picture too, infusing the music with great personality. A superb testimony of over 14 years of music!
http://hectorvex.blogspot.co.uk
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Edinburgh, Scotland-based whimsical pop trio Emporium, celebrate their 14 years of being together by releasing this compilation of seventeen-songs. They also added a new track into the mix, entitled The Umbrella Shop. [Check out the music video here.]

Their vintage-esque sound reminds me of a mix of a more-psychedelic version of The Sea and Cake, with hints of The Catherine Wheel, Pink Floyd and Depeche Mode.

I had the opportunity to interview Ewan yesterday, his answers were very refreshing and interesting to read. Always good to get to know the band a little more:

Briefly introduce yourself, and the band:
I’m Ewan, and currently I am ‘Emporium’. There was a fixed line-up at one time - in the early days. We played gigs for a while, but then the guitarist left to re-locate, and we continued as a duo for 5 years (with Brent Inglis on Bass), really as a recording outfit but also because we both enjoyed playing music so much, and the process of recording/production. We both really believed in the songs, and felt they deserved to be heard. We knew we had an original sound, and saw the potential to stand out from other artists .I’ve recently been recording completely on my own, I wanted to challenge myslef, so decided to make the next Emporium record effectively my first solo album.

In no particular order, list your top ten inspirations, even if they’re not musical:

The Countryside (especially in Scotland)
Universal spirituality (NOT religion!)
Animals
Old films (especially 70’s)
Watching the stars
Strange Chords which have no name
Harmonies
Paul and Linda McCartney’s RAM album (the greatest album ever released)
David Icke
Melody

What are your thoughts on the current status of the music industry?

Where the major labels are concerned - absolutely dismal. They’re not interested
in the art of songwriting anymore, it’s just a production line. They have ‘writing teams’ who can’t actually write proper melodies - they are incapable. It’s very ‘cliquey’ and the whole process is driven by money (obviously). They keep signing more of the same drivel, over and over again. Young singers are too easily influenced by other singers (their singing style) and have become copycats. Lack of originality in general. Style over substance in many cases.
And of course there are the TV talent shows and a particular mogul who has so much to answer for.
Technology and modern recording methods have also spoiled music production and have allowed people with no or minimal talent to make records.
It’s all like a dreadful cancer.
Creatively, Independent music is as healthy as ever, but in a sense has never been as so suffocated as it is now due to the dominance of Pop and RnB via the major platforms . So much fantastic music stays under the radar because the industry over-all is driven by money, power, style and politics.

I noticed on your site that you released your latest album “From Another Planet..” on Whimsical Records. What are your ties to the record label, if you wouldn’t mind explaining?

Started Whimsical in 1999 as a label for Emporium to release our music.
In 2005, following completion of the album ‘Silver Brainwaves’, I decided to develop the label by signing other acts, initially for singles deals. We also started a publishing business (Whimsical Songs) as well as a label servicing business (The Music Elevator) which comprises release co-ordination and promotion to media via subsidiary label Platform Records.
We’ve had some independent chart success in the UK and noticeable airplay and reviews with various bands and artists.

What’s the music scene like where you live in Scotland?

Pretty good, although Glasgow (Scotland’s biggest city) tends to dominate.
Scotland has always punched above it’s weight musically (within the UK) and there’s a rich creative pool of talent here. It’s frustrating too though, as traditionally acts have had to go to London to ‘make it’ via a major label. There are lots of independent labels here though and bands with ‘cult’ followings. Superb live venues and festivals - some of the best in the UK.
If Scotland gets independence (and I hope we do), then the music industry here will be forced to expand - have more of a ‘self contained’ business with improved infrastructure, then Scottish bands could make much more of an impression in Scotland initially (via tv/radio/charts) before venturing outside of their own country.

What would you hope people think about when they hear your music?

Evocative, planetary, beautiful, unexpected, dreamy, moving, uplifting, stirring, bizarre, intelligent, hypnotic, sumptuous and atmospheric.

Have you ever bought an album for its cover? Which one?

NEVER have, never would either.

What’s one place/venue in the world you’ve always wanted to play?

No-where in particular.

What’s your least favorite thing about being in a band?

The politics and closed mindedness of the industry which prevents the music
from reaching it’s full potential.

What’s your most favorite thing about being in a band?

Creating music and the escapism of it.

In your opinion, what’s the best way for a band to make $ these days?

Licensing their music (e.g to an advert, film or computer game).

If you could go back and change anything in your career, what would it be?

Wouldn’t change anything.

Do you feel like you sell more music online or at shows?

Haven’t recently played shows, so rely on online sales.

How do you feel about the new “facebook timeline”?

Don’t like it. They’ve gone and changed it for reasons which remain a mystery.
Makes it more difficult to navigate, and it’s particularly unpopular amongst musicians
I hear, for the purpose of e-commerce and building a fan-base.
Myspace destroyed their website for musicians a while back, and now Facebook. Maybe it’s deliberate? Who knows? If it aint broke, don’t fix it I say.

If you could interview any musical celebrity, alive or dead, who would it be?

Billy Mackenzie (the late lead singer of The Associates)

Who inspired you to sing?

No-one.

Any advice to up and coming bands?
Be as original sounding as possible - try not to be heavily influenced by any particular
band or singer. Don’t EXPECT to ‘make it’ or to earn much money, regardless of how talented you actually are - as there exist obstacles of politics and bias which can put a stop to you having a thriving career.
Be in a band because you love music and genuinely believe in what you are creating. If you don’t then there’s no point, unless of course you are part of a money making machine which has nothing or little to do with the art of music, but that’s all so far removed from where I’m coming from with Emporium, I can’t identify with it.
Bottom line: Make music for YOURSELF to enjoy listening to (music that you would ideally like to hear) - then if anyone else likes it, it’s a bonus!

Do you all play in the band for a living?

No, we’ve all had other jobs in addition. For me, currently it’s Music Publishing and Promotion.

I noticed that you guys have known each other for a really long time, how did you meet your band mates?

When we started out, through other bands and adverts in music shop noticeboards.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when I say “U.S.A.”?

Cheerleaders, that’s all. (No offence intended).

http://whisker-a-nogo.tumblr.com/post/21254678771/emporium
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This is like Teenage Fanclub, They Might Be Giants, and The Beach Boys, and a sprinkle of the Pet Shop Boys. I really like it. The music sort of reminds of children’s television shows, but morose. I don't know if its my aforementioned love of Scottish indie that makes me like it (although I don't think that it would work if Mumford and Sons had Scottish accents). This is good well crafted indie pop, and much better than the artwork makes it look. http://www.collective-zine.co.uk/reviews/?id=8473

Friday 24 February 2012

New Release on Whimsical - EMPORIUM return with new single and 'Best Of' album.

Emporium Best Of brings you sounds “From Another Planet”

......and a new single - The Umbrella Shop (released 26/3/12)

Edinburgh band, Emporium, celebrate their 14th anniversary with a seventeen track compilation, From Another Planet - The Best Of Emporium (1998-2011), and a new single, The Umbrella Shop.

Memorably described in Scotland’s premier tabloid newspaper as "a psychedelic cross between The Small Faces and The Beach Boys”, new single The Umbrella Shop showcases everything that makes their psych-indie-pop melange an attractive treat.

The unique sound of Emporium first came together in January 1998 when they started work recording what became their debut album, A Fine Fine Line, which emerged blinking into the world, in 1999. Right from the off, acclaim was theirs, with the track Sleeping Dogs featuring in the NME published year-end top 10 songs of BBC Scotland’s Beat Patrol show, along with a 5-star (out of 5) review in Guitarist magazine for the Happy High EP. Naturally, the boys in the band let this go to their heads, and embarked on a wild time, which culminated in the Elevate single collaboration with Freddie Phillips, best known for his work on the "Camberwick Green", "Trumpton" and "Chigley" TV programmes.

The arrival of the 21st century saw Emporium lay siege to the airwaves with Zombie appearing on the legendary Steve Wright’s radio show and Happy High on BBC Radio One’s The Evening Session, amongst many others. The album It’s The Thought That Gets You High arrived, and the single Lisa On The Screen saw the band expand internationally, with airplay in Germany, Holland and America.The next record, Hallucinations was album of the month on Popscene (Netherlands) and Planete Indie (Belgium).

Then, their country came calling, and Emporium answered that call.The Scottish Arts Council gave a grant towards the next album, Silver Brainwaves, conferring money and status upon the band. The single Wasted received some of the best reviews to date, but save for a remix of Dice Man on the Whimsical Records compilation “Elevate”, everything went quiet for several years, as the band concentrated on developing their Whimsical label and its subsidiary, Platform Records, yielding over 20 releases and winning critical acclaim and indie chart placings with numerous artists.

But with the music industry in freefall, Emporium have decided the time is right to return, in an attempt to save the day. Their pop music from another planet with sixties keyboards, Beach Boys harmonies, ethereal falsetto vocals and slightly twisted melodies, has always been timeless, but that time is actually now. The world doesn’t need more bad karaoke. What it needs is the feel of Soft Cell getting it on with the Stranglers while Brian Wilson watches from his sandpit.

And you get all that and more, across the seventeen tracks on From Another Planet...., as well as the unsettling sense of someone looking at you skew-wiff through a telescope.

Emporium have the capability to take you on a true listening experience with their song writing and new single The Umbrella Shop reinforces their unique take on modern indie pop music, with floating melodies that are constantly on the move. It's B-side She Won't Come Out To Play, a track from 2001 offers a lighter taste of the band, harking to their Silver Brainwaves period, with prog, psychedelic undertones so fundamental to their dynamic.

Emporium are a rare beast of their own making and their sound is genuinely difficult to type cast. It's all rather strange and eccentric but you won't hear many other tunes like these, so go get some now.

The album From Another Planet - The Best Of Emporium (1998-2011), and single The Umbrella Shop are released March 26th on Whimsical Records. CDs at Amazon, download from all stores.

facebook.com/mckenzieemporium


New Release on Platform - Debut single from THE OK SOCIAL CLUB

The Shape of Things to Come is the debut single from Edinburgh's The OK Social Club, one of Scotland’s brightest young bands. Drawing from a diverse range of influences from 50's girl groups to 70's punk, The OK Social Club exhibit their writing talents in full throughout the song - it's guitar driven, with a foot stomping rhythm and unforgettable hooks. This catchy and energetic track has radio play written all over it.

Backed up by two B-Sides - Twist, Learn, Kick and Scream and Twisted Young Gentlemen, this release is a strong mark in the sand from a band with a confident grasp of their own identity.

"it's all about the melody - we're a pop band at the end of the day", says the band's charismatic front-man Raff.

When asked why they chose The Shape Of Things To Come as their debut single, he added, "it's a good representation of what we're about, it's a new song with bags of energy and an indicator of what's to come."

The band will be celebrating the launch of their first single with a gig on 24th March at Electric Circus in Edinburgh, followed by a UK tour in April.

Guitarist Chris Finn says "It's been great fun recording these songs, but I've missed playing live, I can't wait to play in front of people again. Our first demos were played on local and national radio shows which led to us gigging up and down the country, hopefully this single will help us build on that."

The Shape Of Things To Come is released April 2nd 2012 on Platform Records

http://www.facebook.com/theoksocialclubofficial