Album Review: Lights - Little Machines

Oh Lights, where do I begin with your latest masterpiece? When the first single 'Up We Go' was released it was just before my trip around Europe which i'd spent the entire year slaving away at work for. The lyrics struck me and I wondered whether you'd picked up the art of mind-reading and chosen to devour mine. I held a dance party in my mind to the delicious tune and screamed along as loud as my inner voice could possibly manage... I probably looked like i'd lost my marbles.
Fast forward to a tiny hostel room tucked away in a corner of Ljubljana where I was almost at the end of my trip. It was an incredible journey I went on but not the easiest. On a tough day I holed up under the sheets and discovered you'd put out 'Portal.' The simple yet stunning tune circled my mind and made my excitement for the full album tenfold. Again, it was like you'd strung together a series of beautiful words and made sense of this mess in my mind. Just a couple of weeks later I was home and listening to the two very different but equally fantastic songs on repeat when I stumbled across a live version of 'Running With The Boys.' The audio wasn't great but I could hear the general sound of the song well enough to know it was another perfect example of your synthy brilliance. I felt sick with nostalgia for all the summers past that disappeared as fast as the leaves fell off the trees, 'we were half this heavy and twice this loud,' lodged itself in my brain.

When Little Machines streamed all the way through I don't think I moved for days, only to hit the play button over and over when the album came to end. 'Same Sea' made me want to straight up dance with the funky vocal pattern and infectious chorus all 'ooohs' and stomping drums. Picturing myself driving in my beat up little car, windows down as 'Speeding' crooned through my speakers all laid back, carefree vibes. I was already 100% sure this was going to be one of my favourite albums this year, perhaps even ever, when 'Muscle Memory' got its turn to dazzle me. The groove on that song is unbe-bloody-lievable! My brain yelled 'I quit!' and my heart burst with pride and excitement for you. Your vocals are utter perfection even the harmonies have a special place in my heart. And don't even get me started on the lyrics... 'I grew used to being back here.' You've definitely been reading my mind.

The heaviness of the music matches the somber subject of 'Oil and Water' where your contrasting delicate to strong vocals risk outshining the sun. I don't know whether it was on purpose either but I love how there is contrast in your vocals like oil and water and, I'm guessing, the people the song is about. One minute we're speeding then we 'Slow Down' but by no means does my eagerness to blast this album at full volume all day, every day. The moody, steady pace initially reminded me of Siberia but then the lively chorus hit and I was thinking how tired my feet are going to get dancing away to this album. The bleeping synths and layered 'ooohs' on the bridge, whilst simple, emphasises the spirited chorus and makes it hit that bit harder on the final round. Twinkling, spiky synths and a thumping beat introduce 'Meteorites' that will no doubt be winding its way around everyone's heads long after listening with its groove almost as epic as on 'Muscle Memory.' 

Your vocals lead 'How We Do It' with such charm I found myself grinning at my computer screen and wishing I had this song to blast on the endless train journey's through Europe when we had 'nowhere to be.' In a lot of places Little Machines felt like the perfect soundtrack to my brief adventure - from the moment I decided to go right until now where I'm at home suffocating under my wanderlust - but 'How We Do It' tracks the time I was actually abroad. 'Don't Go Home Without Me' is effortlessly gorgeous, the emotion in your vocals could have hardened men choking on their tears.

The bonus tracks are just as bewitching as the main album starting with the fragility of 'Child' and the darker, restrained sound of 'Lucky Ones' both sharing lyrics that are once more so on point it's spooky. For a moment, when I first heard 'From All Sides,' I thought I was in a western film with the twanging guitars that soon led into a song unlike any other on this album. The synths beep, bop and jump; the vocals soar and it ends with all the electronics cutting off into acoustic loveliness that I didn't want to end.

From start to finish Little Machines is breathtaking. Technically, it's a fantastic electro-pop effort that should make it's mark in the world of synths and capture the attention of a whole new wave of fans drawn in by the undeniable spark of it. Personally this album - which fittingly was officially released on my birthday - has carved out a special place in my own 'petrified heart' that's rebelling against leaving my teen years behind and trying to find a way to be okay with being stuck back in a valley and not running free. With every listen it gets a little easier so Lights, thank you.

Paramore: Intro's & Outro's

For ten years now Paramore have been one of my favourite bands. I've laughed, cried and grown up with their music. There's something so legendary about them they're one of those bands that in 50 years time people will still know their name, blast their music and wish they were at a Paramore gig. I don't think i'll ever come close to explaining what they mean to me and just how spectacular I think they are and to be honest I won't even try, but this isn't a post dedicated to the beauty that is Paramore this is a post more specifically dedicated to the beauty that is their intro's and outro's that they play at live shows. These are in no particular order because quite frankly picking favourites out of these would be impossible...

Monster Outro/Part II

Seeing Paramore for the first time since becoming a trio at Reading Festival 2012 I got to see the chilling outro to "Monster." The stage lights dropped and became a quick assault of bright flashing lights that matched the urgency in the music. Fast forward to April 2013 and the Paramore fandom's first listen to their self-titled record revealed that the so-called 'Monster outro' was actually from "Part II." The sneaky three had been playing part of a new song the whole time.

In The Mourning with Landslide 

After the departure of the Farro's "In The Mourning" was the first song we heard by the new found trio. Early 2011 Hayley and Taylor posted a video of them playing the song acoustically and later on it was released full band. If the song wasn't already heartwrenching enough the band started tagging on Stevie Nicks' "Landslide" with a transition so effortless the younger fanbase might not have even known it's not their song. 

Brand New Eyes Intro

If there was ever a Paramore intro that the entire fanbase wished was an actual song the BNE tour intro would be it. It is dark from its core like no other Paramore song. Opening with guitaring reminiscent of creepy psycho thriller films Hayley joins Josh on stage and begins reciting her most haunting lyrics yet, 'now you've grown a lot and your dresses don't fit right, your daddy's not a hero he stole your chariot,' and the music explodes full band. The drumming from Zac and Taylor goes right through you and Hayley jumps around the stage like she's been possessed by her own song. She does sing 'there's evil in your heart and it wants out to play' mind. 

Miracle Outro

You don't have to be at all religious to be completely mesmerised by the beauty of this hymn inspired outro. Intricate music and delicate vocals builds into Paramore style explosion so clearly full of passion it's hard to not to find yourself sobbing watching it. I remember first hearing this and being completely flawed, it really is miraculous. 

Let The Flames Begin Outro

"Let The Flames Begin" is one of Paramore's darker songs that packs a lot of power and even more so now we have "Part II."  The outro features the same epic music, sped up and 100 times more colossal filling up even the largest arenas with unmistakable electrifying atmosphere. Then in comes Hayley with her devastating vocals making the whole thing a striking performance.

Spring Tour Intro

One of the simpler intro's but no less amazing. Gorgeous guitaring and background drumming for the first minute before Zac's signature crashing drums turn this from a luscious musical intro to an immense one. The timing of the tour and the one lyric - Hayley defiantly belting 'we're starting over' - made this quite hard hitting at the time and nothing less than dazzling.  

Honda Civic Tour Intro

Letting the music do the talking again the set-up on stage with the curtains up and white lights in time with those clashing drums truly brought this intro to life. I could listen to these intro's all day long they're so magnificent with the way they build becoming these staggering pieces of music with multitudes of layers, where the more you listen the more you hear, taking your mind on a whole new journey and turning it into something different it's mind boggling how they manage it time and time again. 

Here We Go Again with One Armed Scissor

Whenever I hear this I just think SO MUCH YES. Something about old songs and this outro turns Hayley into some sassy little beast and her vocals all rough around the edges and the way it flows together so perfectly I missed them playing this and was glad when they brought it back for a while.

YOUTUBE PLAYLIST

They Did A Song With Who? (Part Two)

Anavae, Arthur Walwin & Charlie Bass (Violet) - Closer

"You let one single string raise your head in the morning, give you an excuse and reason to be"

An absolute stormer of a song this track is a true showcase of british talent that we should be proud of. The harmonies between the three are so matched and with the music escalating into full on epic it's hard to believe these guys aren't an actual band that have been together forever.

Zedd featuring Hayley Williams - Stay The Night

"Hold your tongue and hear me out, I know that we were made to break so what? I don't mind"

With Miss Williams being one of my favourite vocalists and Zedd's song being ridiculously catchy it didn't take long for me to love this song.

Tonight Alive featuring Benji Madden - Breakdown

"You give me your reasons but i've heard them all before"

When they released their first album What Are You So Scared Of? the Aussie quintet spent a lot of time on the road capturing new fans with their charged blend of pop-punk. After spending some time off they got the opportunity to record a song with Benji.

Fall Out Boy featuring Elton John - Save Rock And Roll

"How'd it get to be only me? Like i'm the last damn kid still kicking that still believes"

The kind-of surprise announcement of Save Rock And Roll came with a lot of cool collabs with other artists but by far the most shocking was that of Elton John. The track in question shares it's name with the album and also happened to crush the Fall Out Boy fandom.

Lights featuring Coeur De Pirate - Peace Sign (Acoustic)

"We beckon so we can make amends and with the same flip of the hand we curse our friends"

When Lights announced the release of Siberia Acoustic it was a dream come true. There was always something about her music that just seemed perfect to be turned into an entire acoustic album and just like Jesse Lacey said i'm a sucker for anything acoustic. The acoustic version of Peace Sign is gorgeous with the reworking of the french giving the song a whole new sound that extends further than the acoustic. 

I Divide featuring Becca Need-Menear - 27 Down

"You can't wait to say it's not your fault somehow, you don't seem to understand the reason why things have to change"

Another example of up and coming british rock music to sink your teeth into and brag about when they become internationally stars.

PART ONE HERE

Reading Festival 2014 - It Just Got Even Better

FIRST ANNOUNCEMENT PICKS

This time last week I saw a rumoured line up for this years Reading & Leeds Festival and I so wanted it to be legit but I thought there was no way it will be. So there I was on Wednesday slaving away helping a friend with her photography studio when I got an over-excited text from Meg about the line-up being real. Reading just went from being great to absolutely unbefreakinglievable. 

THE WONDER YEARS

Over the years these guys have truly become one of my all time favourite bands and when it comes to seeing them live they're pretty much in the number one spot. I can't even describe a Wonder Years show - you have to experience it. I'm ecstatic to be seeing these guys in a festival setting, the only downer is my brother won't be there and seeing The Wonder Years is kinda our thing. It sure as hell isn't gonna stop me from having an amazing time - and bragging about it later. 

TONIGHT ALIVE

Since the release of their fantastic sophomore album - The Other Side - this ultra talented quintet from down under have been making gigantic waves over on our shores. The last time I saw them was in a tiny venue with no barriers so the fact their Reading debut is on the main stage is evidence enough at just how much this band has progressed in what's really a short amount of time. I'm excited to finally hear these new tracks live as well as old favourites... and with the band going home to write album number three there's always the possibility of hearing newer new tracks. GET ME THERE NOW!

THE STORY SO FAR
Back in February my brother and I were buzzing to be seeing A Day To Remember with these guys as one of the supports. I had work that day until 6, I live an hour and half away and according to the venue The Story So Far were playing at 6:45pm. I don't know how - well I do, some very illegal driving - I made it to the venue in time to see them. I got out the car and my brother came running over to tell me that the gig had been cancelled. And i'm sure anyone reading this is going 'ah yeah adtr gig cancel gate.' We were pretty gutted but got tickets to see New Found Glory where TSSF are the main support so their set will actually be longer. Now, with them playing Reading this year i'm gonna be seeing their pop-punk mania at least twice. I say at least because i'm hoping they remain the support for the rescheduled show just 2 days after Reading...

MAYDAY PARADE
I actually can't believe these guys are playing Reading. Not only am I so happy for them but i'm so happy for myself and everyone else to get to see them. With their unique blend of pop-rock that'll leave you bawling your eyes out they're bound to capture some more hearts during their set.

TWIN ATLANTIC
They're pretty familiar faces on the Reading scene nowadays and i've seen them live three times with their music growing on me more and more each time. Last year they played Main Stage but they're back in the atmospheric NME tent this year where hopefully we'll hear some new music (that's better than Heart and Soul) from their upcoming album.

READING 2012
Thursday/Friday
Saturday
Sunday/Monday

READING 2013
Wednesday/Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Reading Festival 2014

Reading Festival is always the highlight to my summer to the point where I get my ticket before the line-up is even announced. This summer i'm off travelling Europe for six weeks to return for a mere ten or so hours before I hop on another train to musical heaven. These are my initial favourites so far from the line-up...

PARAMORE

Their last Reading appearance was in 2012 before the release of their incredible self-titled album. Since then the trio have somehow managed to grow and grow and i've seen them three times since. They never fail to disappoint and this years' set is sure to be crammed full of their newer songs to get the whole crowd dancing/jumping away. A co-headline spot is more than well deserved I just wish it was a full headline position as at this point they're more than capable of handling it.

BLINK-182

Taking one of the headline spots Blink are sure to bring a lot of fun to the final night. The last time I saw them they played a set full of the cheeky classics as well as their slightly more grown up tracks. Drunken dancing - or flailing would be more accurate - is bound to happen. And after the crowd they pulled in the last time they headlined I can't imagine i'm going to be the only one flailing wildly.

A DAY TO REMEMBER

Last month Jeremy was struck with illness hours before their Cardiff show where I was to see them for the second time. With that show now re-scheduled for the Tuesday after Reading it means i'll be seeing them twice in not much more than 24 hours. And I am buzzing. Common Courtesy is a cracker of an album and will set this show on fire.

JIMMY EAT WORLD

Long time favourites of mine are returning to Reading where their back catalogue of fantastic albums will give them plenty of choice in what to grace our ears with. In November I finally managed to see them for the first time and Bleed American tracks went down a riot so i'm hoping there's plenty of them.

YOU ME AT SIX

It's got to the point where it would feel weird if a year went by where I didn't see them. Regulars on the Reading scene I already know that they're going to bring a brilliant performance and hopefully we'll hear some tracks from their fourth rock effort Cavalier Youth. 

LOWER THAN ATLANTIS

More regulars Lower Than Atlantis have been working on their new album and i'm hoping that they decide to play some of these new tracks. 

NECK DEEP

Fast risers on the pop-punk scene Neck Deep give a charged and passionate performance that in a festival setting can only get better. I'm thinking their set could be their best to date.

IMAGINE DRAGONS

Last year they played the NME tent which was overflowing with people. There were people everywhere and all were saying they should have been on the main stage. This year we got our wish. 

READING 2012

Thursday/Friday

Saturday

Sunday/Monday

READING 2013

Wednesday/Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Reminder: Jolt Magazine's First Issue

Album Review: Fall Out Boy- Save Rock And Roll

Album Review: Natives - Stand For Something

Live Review: Tonight Alive, Transit And Gavin Butler (The Fleece, Bristol)

Introducing: Cold Summer

Album Review: Cold Summer's Debut Self-Titled

Introducing: Undervienna Skies

Our first ever issue... (includes my Paramore review) 

The Most Anticipated Music (Part Two)

You Me At Six

It was no surprise to a lot of people when it was revealed the band were planning on ending their career after the most epic gig at Wembley Arena last December. I remember actually being at The Final Night Of Sin and waiting with dread for them to announce a hiatus but the news never came. They were fairly quiet for the majority of 2013 - apart from a tour in America - until the summer when they headed out to LA to record what will be their fourth studio album. A summer full of photo's followed for You Me At Six fans and on the 2nd of September they premiered  new song "Lived A Lie" which subsequently blew up the fandom. Now we all sit and wait for Cavalier Youth to make it's may to our eager ears.

We Are The In Crowd
Dual vocal bubblegum pop-punk outfit We Are The In Crowd teased with new song "Attention" over the summer which at the moment sounds as though it could be the bridge between their debut Best Intentions and their second album. Playing the song at gigs and festivals since has stirred up interest and the five recently finished recording that much awaited second album.

Taking Back Sunday
Recently signing to Hopeless Records long time favourites of mine Taking Back Sunday have been playing a couple of new tracks on their current tour. With line up changes a frequent thing in the bands' past each of their albums have sounded very different, but with the last couple releases it's definitely seemed as though they've found their own signature sound to come back to and experiment with. Spring 2014 is what we're being told in terms of their new album so Spring 2014... if you'd kindly hurry up please.

Arthur Walwin
The ever lovely Arthur Walwin has a voice so smooth it'd give Galaxy chocolate a run for it's money and when you combine this with his song writing skills he's a force to be reckoned with. We've heard his newest song "Someone Who Knows" and seen his chitchat about the new album and I for one cannot wait until he charms everyone's socks off all over again.

PART ONE 

The Most Anticipated Music (Part One)

So far 2013 has been an incredible year for music with a lot of big name bands releasing new albums that have blown their predecessors out of the water. However, there are always those bands that you are just dying to hear new material from or perhaps they've been teasing us for a few months now but there's still no definite release date. Here's just a few of those that are guilty of the accused...

VersaEmerge

The success of their debut full length Fixed At Zero saw the band touring their hearts out for a couple of years before starting the writing process for album number two. July 2012 brought us the much awaited 'Another Atmosphere' preview EP which had three fantastic synth-heavy tracks and a StageIt performance with a further two tracks from the album. Now, in October 2013, the news that the duo are no longer on Fueled By Ramen and the uncertainty of when exactly we can expect the second album is beginning to die down but for the fans the wait is one of pure torture. 

Anavae

The UK's much needed alternative rock outfit have blown everyone's expectations out of the water the last couple of years. With every release so carefully thought out and the level of attention put into all they do it's safe to say that the bands second EP 'Dimensions' will grow their already large aermy even more. Roll on November 10th. 

Natives

Unless I missed something i'm 100% sure the pop-rock quintet were supposed to release their debut album back in September, but for reasons unknown it hasn't made an appearance. Their last two EP's have been popular and made for great gigs but we're all getting pretty desperate to hear a full album of Natives goodness.

Brand New

To me, and to a lot of other people, this band are absolute legends. When I saw them live last year it was like a religious experience. They truly are incredible. The intensity, the angst, the talent and oh, yeah their really annoying habit of being inconsistent just keeps me coming back for more. Tour announcements - actually, ANY announcement - is hard to come by from these guys and yet all us die-hards sit and wait with tears in our eyes, our tattooists on the line and watercolours in hand just waiting for another new album. 

If It Burns Too Bright: Anavae - Anti-Faith

Finally, finally months after I first heard this song - letting bands crash at your house has it's perks - Anavae's single 'Anti-Faith' is available for everyone to hear and download over on iTunes and along with it is a fantastic music video i've been dying to see. So much effort goes into everything they do - I don't think I know anyone else who has quite the level of perfectionism as Jamie and Becca - but it pays off as everything they release is truly stunning. The song itself is a brilliant demonstration of vision, creativity and growth. Everything about 'Anti-Faith' is better than anything else they've ever released. The music, the lyrics even the vocals show diversity, with my personal highlight being the slight growl to the bridge,"if it burns too bright it'll burn too fast," which gave me goosebumps the first time I heard it - and every time since. 'Anti-Faith' is another reason on the long list of mine why everyone needs to hurry up and jump on the Anavae train, they're about to explode and I for one cannot wait until their second EP Dimensions is unleashed on the world on November 10th. They're a constant source of inspiration to me - heck, my blog is named after one of their songs - and i've said it before and i'll say it again: the day they stop making music is the day I stop believing in music.

Anti-Faith

Anavae are incredible and just in case any of you have been under a rock it's time to crawl out from underneath it and check these guys out. Above are the teaser trailers for their soon to be released single "Anti-Faith" which is going to blow everyone's minds.  

Bands I NEED To See Live (Part Two)

ARTHUR WALWIN

Throughout his career in the music industry Arthur Walwin  has achieved a lot. However, fronting bands and producing music for others was not enough for him as he began dabbling in a solo project. With songs like stories and a tone so beautiful I am eager to catch this guy dazzling people's socks off in a live setting. 

BROADWAY CALLS

Four or five years ago I had tickets to see these guys live in Bristol on what I believe was their first trip to the UK. It also happened to fall on the week we got a whole lot of snow, closing the M5, trapping us in our house and leaving my brother stuck at a service station waiting for police to bring him home. Go England. Every tour they've done since then has either avoided the middle of nowhere South West or clashed with gigs i've already got tickets for. But, one day, one freaking day I will see these punk gods fill a room and blast their way through a set of some of my favourite songs - and maybe if i'm really really lucky one of my favourite acoustic songs ever "Save Our Ship" - one day. 

YELLOWCARD

They've been around for quite a while now and yet I still haven't seen them play their unique blend of pop-punk with violin breakdowns. Most famous for the classic "Ocean Avenue" they have an extensive back catalogue with a pop-punk song for everyone and every occasion.

PART ONE 

Deja EnTENdu

To think that ten years ago today this album was released makes me feel really old despite only being 18. And then thinking about how much this album means to me and so many others out there makes me feel dizzy and oh so proud to call Brand New one of my all time favourite bands. No arguments allowed. For the Brand New listeners of my generation we grew up with this album. We went from kids who enjoyed the music but weren't necessarily able to fully get it. Some tracks were a total mind boggling concept to the eight year old version of myself and opener "Tautou" used to genuinely scare me. Then we got older and reached  preteen years and the dreaded age of being fourteen and finally we understood the album and wished, oh how we pretended, that we could relate. Until finally - and in a lot of ways, sadly - we actually get the album. We get the desperation and the panic of sudden adulthood that's wrapped itself around the album, and more than anything it's a comfort - the one thing that we can turn to when it feels like nothing else will work.  

***

From pop-punk debut Your Favourite Weapon the band's progress was unbelievable. Leaving behind formulaic pop-punk and warm summer tracks they produced a dark, wistful record that picked apart and laid bare the very deepest thoughts of Jesse Lacey - who has more than earnt his place as my favourite lyricist - and lets face it, ourselves. He said exactly what we're all too scared to admit. Angry and poetic the lyrics are full of one-liners and yet are always part of some greater metaphor or ridiculously identifiable simile that can only be described as pure genius. Lines like "call me a safe bet, i'm betting i'm not" and... oh wait, sorry, every line on the album ooze perfection.

"If I could I would shrink myself,

sink through your skin to your blood cells, 

remove whatever makes you hurt

but I am too weak to be your cure"

Songwriters should just give up now.

***

Aside from his lyrics, Jesse's vocals are just as fantastic. Whether he's softly whispering his way through melancholic acoustic tracks or adding a gritty yell he transcends emotion beautifully and sounds better than ever, doing his lyrics every bit of justice they deserve. Along with the angsty lyricism - now Jesse's identifier - he is accompanied by stunning musicianship that blends perfectly on the album with every different angle they try, be it on acoustic numbers like "The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot" or the many layered "Sic Transit Gloria... Glory Fades" featuring an ear melting bass line and one of their most iconic lines screamed out "die young and save yourself." 

Looking back through their discography it's apparent that sailing the same boat isn't something the band are comfortable with, as each release has been vastly different to it's predecessor with the angst being the only familiar thing to cling to. And yet with Deja the band managed to cram in as many styles as they can including punk, indie and of course emo, sometimes even on the same track. For some bands this might not work and leave the listener with a headache but for Brand New anything less just wouldn't seem right. It works flawlessly. "Good To Know That If I Ever Need Attention All I Have To Do Is Die" (can we talk about how fab their song titles are please?) quite simply rocks all the way to Timbuktu and then seamlessly melts into acoustic "Play Crack The Sky."  It's a roller coaster journey, with tracks that start out with a quiet guitar, simple drumming and crooning vocals. Give Brand New a couple of seconds more and they'll explode into clashing cymbals and electrifying guitars colliding with harsh vocals that instantly turn them into powerful rock tracks.

***

Deja Entendu seems an incredibly ironic title - there was nothing "already heard" about this album.

When Obsession Becomes Respect: A Lesson To Learn

For the majority of my life i've been really into music. As in i'm not a passive listener, i'll actively search out for music to listen to, I go to shows, I buy merch and now i'm going to do a degree in music journalism. But along with this formed my inner fan girl. The obsessive side to this passion, the part that knows every detail about band members to a point it is actually kinda creepy - never as much as Ali King or those girls that broke into Hayley Williams' house, mind. I'm sometimes guilty of putting band members on a pedestal and lose sight of them as a person. And then I met a bunch of these band members and shattered the illusions I created for myself and began to see them as just talented people. I remembered that at the end of the day it's about the music and you should never expect more than that from a band - if they offer it that's great but you shouldn't expect it.

And then last week Anavae played their first show in Plymouth and I went to see them for the first time. Beforehand Becca had asked on twitter if there was anyone in the area who could put them up for the night and so as it happened they were to be staying at my house after their show. My mum went all mumsy and instantly started making beds and buying a ton of different foods for them while me and my dad went off to Plymouth.

Due to the intimacy of the show the members of Anavae were wandering around all night and I knew at some point I needed to go and say 'hey i'm here you're staying at my house' but I had worked myself up into this fan girly mess who would only of made an idiot out of herself  and if I wasn't like that I had gone completely shy and was too scared to speak to them. My dad thought it was very amusing. But my head was screaming at me 'omg its them its really them the band I have loved for so long are stood in front of me' until after about half an hour I found my sane side and went in search of Jamie who I had seen go out the back. Luckily the idiotic fan girl shut the hell up and I managed to introduce myself to Jamie without him running a mile and he told us we had saved their lives tonight before I received one of the best hugs i've ever had. When we went back into the room my shyness returned and for the rest of the night I didn't speak to the rest of Anavae until after when we gave James directions to my house and I briefly chatted with Becca who expected me to have pink hair instead of my boring blonde. Our parking ticket had run out at like 10pm and it was now 11 so we had to leave them to chat with other people and left for home.

And I can now say that after spending the day with them - I made them watch Honey Boo Boo and took them to see the thrilling sights of the tiny village I live in - that not only are the nicest people i've ever met but it really was a sort of eye opening experience. I saw this band that I had admired and fan girled over as just normal people with lives and friends and opinions and feelings and who themselves were fans of bands - they all geeked out over me meeting Paramore. We talked weird fans, the unfair female vocalist comparisons, tattoos, how damn good my chocolate orange soap is and old bands amongst other subjects and spent a long time trying to get a photo of all of us and nearly killed James when he jumped/fell off the climbing frame. Eventually they had to leave so we hugged and said our goodbyes and my dad gave them the 'keep up the hard work you're welcome anytime' speech and off they went in the Anavan. So I suppose what i'm trying to say in a round-a-bout long winded rambly kind of way is that band members are just people too. Treating them like anything but that freaks them out - trust me on this one - but talk to them like a sane person (no matter how hard it can be) like you're just one of their friends and I assure you it'll make for a nicer experience.

People are just people.

Reading Festival 2013

Leaving Reading Festival last year was one of the hardest things i've ever had to do and from the moment I set foot on camp I knew I would return the year after. And now here we are in 2013. With my ticket purchased before any bands had been announced I wasn't expecting much of the line-up and nor did I care as the atmosphere of the weekend is enough to lure me back. But much to my surprise the bands that have been announced so far have obliterated all expectations I had. There are some surprises, some Reading veterans and plenty of artists I really don't like but will no doubt find myself drunkenly dancing to anyway. I would suggest songs for newcomers to these bands to listen to but it would always be "ALL THE SONGS" so without further ado I present you with the bands that have me wishing the year away so I can get to Reading faster. 

FALL OUT BOY

Oh man oh man oh man I feel sorry for anyone that is near me when they play their set. I will turn into a total beast and I will be shrieking the lyrics along with absolutely everything I have in me. I joked a while back about how great it would be if they came off hiatus and played Reading and then they did come off hiatus and they are playing Reading and just thinking about it is making me tear up.

BRAND NEW

When I saw them last year they surpassed all expectations and played just about every song I could have wanted them too. They destroyed things and Jesse stage dived so far into the crowd I was convinced he was going to kill himself. With a back catalog with plenty of rock, pop-punk, acoustic and just plain weird the band are sure to be one of my highlights.

CITY AND COLOUR

Dallas Green,  please oh please can we get married? City And Colour, the band of Alexisonfire front man, is set to break my heart in about a million different ways with his beautiful blend of acoustic music penned with lyrics so lovely I will be a puddle on the floor of the NME tent.

NEW FOUND GLORY

Pop-punk kings return to Reading main stage where they will bring their classic anthems to get the crowd going. They never disappoint live and their bounds of energy will awaken the festival-goers from their inevitably hungover stupor.

BRING ME THE HORIZON

Playing the main stage BMTH are sure to bring a hell of a crowd to accompany what is certain to be a hell of a set. Find me in the most pit. 

FRANK TURNER

More acoustic fabulousness from Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls. They never fail to put a grin on my face and i'm sure they won't fail in spreading the festival cheer.

BASTILLE

With new single Pompeii, Bastille have suddenly found themselves as the next best thing which is perfectly fine by me if it means the crowd give it their all for a set that will be unbelievably fun. They have a knack for writing catchy as hell songs that sound incredibly upbeat with lyrics that are so harshly relatable it's like the words have been picked straight from my brain.

GREEN DAY

Sitting outside my tent last year, hearing the first guitar strums of their "secret" set and then watching practically the entirety of Reading flock to the main arena and then an actual crowd forming in front of the main stage screens was a surreal sight. If it's anything to go by I imagine them actually being on the main stage will send everyone into a frenzy. Pure nostalgia will accompany with their set. 

BIFFY CLYRO

I would be lying if I said I wasn't surprised by their headlining but all the same i'm sure the Scottish rockers will put on a headline worthy set that should not be missed. 

TWIN ATLANTIC

After catching the last half of their set last year and seeing them play the Bristol 02 Academy I already know these guys will go down a treat with their radio famous single Free and adorable humbleness. 

EMINEM

Again, nostalgia will be my date for this headline act. Don't trust anyone if they say they're not excited for Eminem. 

THE BLACKOUT

I've seen them live so many times now and every time they've been entertaining and musically perfect with songs that involve a lot of crowd participation which always makes things better. 

Reading 2012 (Thursday/Friday)

Reading 2012 (Saturday)

Reading 2012 (Sunday/Monday)

Bands I NEED To See Live (Part One)

FALL OUT BOY

Back when I decided I was going to write this post the world was still in the clutches of the most torturous hiatus. It seemed like Fall Out Boy would never return and I would never get to see them live. Sometimes the very thought could make me cry. However, now when I'm actually writing this it is one week and three days since since Fall Out Boy announced their return as well as an album, a tour and presenting us with a new song with a video. Finally. FINALLY the possibility of seeing them live was real and then later that night Reading Festival goers were told they were playing. And i'm a Reading Festival goer. Ecstatic does not even describe it. 

ANAVAE

Yep, i'm gonna write about them again. Recently announcing their signing to LAB Records means that touring near me is a more likely possibility in the future and I am so so ready to see these guys play. Becca is a power house in terms of her vocals and from the couple of video's i've seen floating around the net this is still the case live. As for the guys the way they wield their instruments with such perfection is going to ensure that Anavae are catapulted right into the future of intensely good alternative rock. 

THE ACADEMY IS...

Heartbroken doesn't quite cover how I feel about them breaking up and what makes it worse is that I never got to see them live. Here's hoping the reunion of Fall Out Boy will inspire them to come back too. Their music was fun, light-hearted and had a particular knack for opening up a pit of nostalgia right where it hurts the most and with the closeness of the band I really want to see them live.

The Return Of Fall Out Boy

There are no introductions necessary. Everyone knows who Fall Out Boy are - even my sixty year old grandparents and radio fed friends. For many, including me, they were the first real band obsession that then ignited a love for pop-punk and set us on the tracks for the discovery of other bands in the future, which would then sing the songs of our youth. At the time they were around I was only a kid and could never go to see them live and then when I finally could they sent everyone into panic by announcing a hiatus.
For almost four years fans and cynics alike have had to deal with monthly rumours of their return for them to then be crushed, usually by Pete Wentz himself. So when these rumours started circulating again, and this time from people such as Blessthefall vocalist Beau Bokan, everyone wished for it to be true but no one actually believed it. Fast forward to January and the rumours stop seeming unlikely. News sites like Property Of Zack report for what seems like the thousandth time since 2009 that Fall Out Boy are due to return. The news was dismissed like normal by the band but the journalists refused to let it go claiming we can expect the announcement to be made within the next few days. Then February arrives and the listing for Jimmy Kimmel's show says the band are due to perform. A Chicago news station is set to make a big announcement on Monday the 4th of February. The coincidences were becoming too much but hopeful fans didn't want to believe and then be let down again. So when Monday arrived and Fall Out Boy not only announced the end of their hiatus but gave us a new song, video, album and worldwide tour I think hearts stopped. The internet exploded. Fans around the world sobbed in unison. They sound incredible and unbelievably they appear to be even better than before. Fall Out Boy are really, truly, honestly back and the future of music hasn't looked so good in a long time. 

If This Is Paramore's Future We Want It Now

Today saw the return of flame-fronted super trio, Paramore, with their first single, "Now", from up and coming Self-Titled fourth studio album. As a self confessed fan girl of the band I knew I would love the new song - hell, they could record the alphabet and I'd put that on repeat - but what I didn't know is what it would sound like and would I love it as much as their other material? The fandom, the critics and the mildly interested all sat in tense anticipation for 12am EST (5am for those in the UK) to hear just what Paramore had been up to since the Singles Club releases back in 2011. From lurking around on the internet it seemed that there was more cynicism than optimism. Ridiculous rumours flew that it would be an electro dubstep dance track. 

The song was unleashed on the internet. 4 minutes and 7 seconds later, opinions were circulating around. As with everything, some loved it, some hated it. It was compared to their old stuff both positively and negatively ('like how dare they grow and change their sound omg ew'). It was compared to No Doubt and Hayley was accused of being a Gwen Stefani wannabe. Numerous comparisons were made, including the likening of it to fellow Fueled By Ramen band VersaEmerge's new material. 

But. It is wholeheartedly Paramore. 

They started out as teenagers and have grown and grown and grown into young adults in a world where it can be tough to make it. And when they did make it, it wasn't always easy. They could easily have called it a day and "Now" tells us that they knew this, "there's a time and place to die but this ain't it" - but they didn't give up.

The music is heavy, the lyrical content more personal than before, "wish I could find a crystal ball for the days I feel completely worthless" and Hayley's vocals are edgy with a wider range of notes showcased beautifully. Despite the weighty topic and sound, "Now" also manages to be accessible and have elements of pop, which is the beauty of Paramore.  

Ultimately, Paramore have proved themselves worthy of the endless praise they receive once again. They've truly progressed in a fantastic manner and their ability to write epic songs just gets better and better with every release. 

They're starting over and no one should dare take this from them. 

Bands Coming To Steal Hearts In 2013

ANAVAE

The intergalactic anti-lack lustre (in their own words) London based band stole the hearts and minds of many in the year and half of them being together. If you're a regular reader of my blog you'll know I harp on about them all the time - but for good reason. Anavae have achieved highly already, scoring support slots for the likes of Kids In Glass Houses and Hawthorne Heights; being featured in Kerrang and Rock Sound and building a global aermy. But this was all just the beginning as earlier this month they finally announced the not so secret fact they signed to LAB records, are embarking on a free 02 Academy tour and recording for their second EP. Expect nothing but spectacular things from this atmospheric bunch and keep your eyes peeled for new single "Stormchaser" due for release on February 10th.

NATIVES

They laid their days as Not Advised to rest last year, were reborn as Natives and threw themselves back out into the music scene. As of yet they have released two new original songs - "Big Plans" and "This Island" - and yet already the New Forest pop-rockers have managed to capture enough attention to set off across the country on a headline tour. Playing songs from their album - which is yet to be released - they had the crowds participating and having an incredible night despite us not knowing the songs. Not only does this show their talent but it proves that when the album is unleashed on the world it will be huge.

KITTEN

The release of their EP "Cut It Out" last year has set the standards high for the young band who are set to drop their debut full length album some time this year. Angsty teen lyrics, smoky vocals and an infectious tune are what you'll hear when Kitten are doing their thing. Almost like Ladyhawke and The Naked And Famous had a baby or, well, a Kitten. I'm excited. You should be too.

ARTHUR WALWIN

Yet another artist that I just never stop talking about, Arthur Walwin oozes talent. After releasing his debut solo EP last year and playing a few shows here and there he succeeded in getting his single "All For You" played on radio one at the end of 2012. 

A DAY TO REMEMBER

When they started out in 2003 critics told them they wouldn't get anywhere - that pop-punk and hardcore music as they were trying to fuse it would not work. Now, 10 years later with their fifth studio album - "Common Courtesy" - recorded and ready to drop onto eager fans A Day To Remember are laughing at the cynics that once told them not to even try.

PARAMORE

No back story is needed. Paramore are back and as strong as ever. April 9th 2013. Put it in your diaries.

VERSAEMERGE

Steadily getting more ethereal over the years Sierra and Blake have teased us with songs such as "Bones" and "No Consequences" over the past few months and boy oh boy am I ready to enter "Another Atmosphere" with my two favourite Floridians.

They Did A Song With Who?

I've always been a sucker for when bands collaborate with other artists. I know some people hate it - my mum likes about 1 in every 100 collabs - but I thought for those of you who do love it I'd show you some of my favourite collabs. And maybe for you cynics out there you may find one you like? Also it's probably worth mentioning that I LOVE suggestions. 

All Time Low - Remembering Sunday 

Featuring - Juliet Simms (Automatic Loveletter) 

"I've done something so terrible, i'm terrified to speak but you'd expect that from me"

When the album "So Wrong, It's Right" was first released I thought that Juliet being on one of the songs would make her more known to the world and her fan base would expand. However, this didn't really happen and only now 5 years after the release is her incredible voice known after coming second place on The Voice.  The song itself is a slow acoustic number that is one of the fan favourites. Juliet's part of the song has been performed numerous times over the years by just about every other female vocalist out there but no one can do it quite like she does - effortlessly beautiful. 

Anavae - This Light

Featuring - Arthur Walwin

"Have we all felt something we're never meant to feel. Don't leave it in the dark just tell me where to start."

Both of these artists are relatively unknown but each deserves masses of attention. Compared to other music by Anavae "This Light" is pretty different. Ditching the heavy guitars and drums they opted for a quieter more intricate sound with Arthur joining Becca in singing what is essentially a breathtaking song. 

Arthur Walwin - Wisteria Lane Poker Club

Featuring - AJ Perdomo (The Dangerous Summer)

"So take me and help me up cause i'm falling and I need you to believe in me again."

Arthur himself has collaborated with AJ Perdomo on one of his own songs. A bonus track on his EP "For One More Night" the song showcases how amazing his song writing skills are as well as his stunning voice. 

The Dangerous Summer - Disconnect

Featuring - Alex Gaskarth (All Time Low) 

"I'm afraid of all the nightmares that came true."

I'm not purposely going in circles, I swear. Back from their 2007 EP "If You Could Only Keep Me Alive" the harmonies provided by Alex compliment AJ's with charm.

A Day To Remember - If It Means A Lot To You

Featuring - Sierra Kusterbeck (VersaEmerge)

"I swear i'll never be happy again and don't you dare say we can just be friends."

Sierra's luscious voice makes this song so enchanting I find it hard to believe there is anyone out there who doesn't like it.

A Loss For Words - Finite (Acoustic)

Featuring - Taylor Jardine (We Are The In Crowd)

"Until the hand of fate takes it away we're staring life right in the face."

I can't think of the words to describe just how much I love this song. Just know that I really really really really love it. Like a lot. 

Set Your Goals - The Few That Remain

Featuring - Hayley Williams (Paramore)

"You instilled, helped to build a belief within me that I carry to this day. You passed the torch and cared no more. What a shame. Who's to blame when the mighty fall from grace?"

This song should be one of everyone's favourites. With brutally honest and thoughtful lyrics with music that feels empowering and what can only be described as rapping from Hayley. 

Tonight Alive - Thank You And Goodnight

Featuring - Mark Hoppus (Blink-182) 

"I think you all look the same, but who's blaming you? Well I know that you can't help it."

One of the punkier tracks from TA's debut album "What Are You So Scared Of?" with vocals from the one and only stupendous Mark Hoppus.

Transit - All Your Heart

Featuring - Patrick Stump (Fall Out Boy) 

"You made me into a monster so I made you into art and I gave it to the world to rip and tear apart."

Transit write music that is equally beautiful, ingenious and something else entirely. The addition of Patrick Stump on this song makes it even more wonderful. 

Yellowcard - Here I Am Alive

Featuring - Taylor Jardine (We Are The In Crowd)

"Someone's gonna tell you who you should wanna be, so you forget the vision that they didn't want to see."

Another one of those songs that gives you food for thought and speaks nothing but truth.