Broken Toy Box New Music Blog

More music for you lot.. (Live review)

2009-10-30T11:57:00.002Z

I've been absent a while, blame univeristy life and all its trials and tribulations. However I do have a guy for you lot to listen to and keep an eye out for.

Thabani Nyoni is a guy who embraces the African beat into his music, leaving a memorable impression on all who hear it. I was at a gig of his last night and Thabani and his band were easily the best act of the night, getting everyone to sing along and having a charisma many stage performers could only dream about.

Right from when Thabani and his band took the stage, I knew something different was coming, something I would enjoy. It was a sentiment shared by mates with me. This anticipation to see what was coming stopped me from leaving after the second act and battle through my tiredness. I did not regret staying. Thabani brought the whole place alive with people dancing to the beat.

The best song of the night that got people singing long after it finished was Fire In The Village. Thabani sang "There's a fire!" We sang back, "Fire In The Village." Actually amazing. I've been to a lot of gigs and I'm going to go to a lot more but Thabani and his band are one of the few who's stage presence I will not forget and who I will look out for in the future. If you're going to Glastonbury 2010, make sure you check these guys out, it'll be worth it.

Also Thabani, if you're wondering who wrote this, I was the guy in the grey t-shirt who asked if you had an album out. If you want to still add me to your e-mail list it's brokentoybox@hotmail.com.

Listen to Thabani now!

Album Review: Revolutions by Agency

2009-09-12T13:31:00.002+01:00

Another week, another album review. This weeks album is brought to you by Agency and is titled Revolutions. A lot of you may remember Agency being mentioned way back when this blog was only a few weeks old. Back then, they had quite few good tracks on their MySpace.

Revolutions is what most in the music business dub as the difficult second album. A band has already cemented their sound in their first album and songs so the second album sets out to build on that success. Have Agency built on that success? Let's see.

The album opens with a short untitled intro before directly launching into 'Ours'. This song is a straight up rock song, fast paced and eager to please. Well it should please all rock fans with its great riffs and loud drumming. 'Ours' is short, fast and great.

We then move straight all out rock to a bit of a short ballad entitled One For Us. It's a bit slower and deeper than 'Ours'. It's a good song to hear and if I had to pick the a potential hit for Revolutions, then 'One For Us' would be it.

From here on in the album seems to take a turn for a slower vibe which has it's ups and downs. 'Went Looking' comes directly after One For Us and would be called the long ballad. It does merit a place on the album but in my opinion I think it should have been further down the track listings.

Things speed up again at track 6 called Get Up. This is what I would pick out as the definite hit of Revolutions with everything here blending perfectly to create a incredible rock song. However this seems and track 7 called 'Transient' seem to be the last true independent songs on the album. The 2nd half of Revolutions just seems to blend into one with no tracks really standing out. They are all a good listen but don't make themselves known like the first half of the album.

I'm going to give this album a respectful 7 out of 10. Revolutions is to be recommended to fans of alt. rock music looking for something slightly different.

Favourite Tracks: Ours and Transient.

Album Review: Chasing Rabbits - Tab & Anitek

2009-08-27T13:26:00.004+01:00

So to mark my return I'm celebrating the return of a very good musician. Many of you may remember I mentioned Tab way back when he was releasing Poet in The Dark. Poet in The Dark was a mind opener, not just an album but an insightful journey. So what does Chasing Rabbits hold for us? Well I don't think anyone can describe it better than the artist himself:

"This album is for anyone who gave up on a dream to settle for the mediocre... For anyone medicated for asking questions.. Judged for being different.. Hated for being honest.. This is the soundtrack for those stuck on the slow road to nowhere... For BIG dreams in shitty towns.. For anyone chasing something they will never find.."

So the actual album then? What is it? Good? Bad? Okay?

In my opinion it's great follow up to Poet in the Dark. Tab has not lost any of the talent that he first showed and it seems to have improved. His style seems to have matured a bit more and the songs on Chasing Rabbits seem a lot more ordered and grown up than his previous releases.

My favourite songs from the record:

Charades - The opening to this song is amazing, the spanish guitar really makes this song seem to have that more soul. Also there's a bit of a throwback to a song from Poet in The Dark here, my favourite song from that record which was Sun Goes Down. He has taken the formula for that song and made something that is familiar but unique at the same time.

Vitamin Shoppe - Here Tab tackles an issue that isn't really discussed and that is addiction to prescribed medicine. Many produce songs about drug abuse but Tab is one of the few that looks at the issue from another standpoint. This is the track that really hits out a healthcare system that seems to thrive of abuse.

The Ballad of The Man That Never Made It- This tune, I think, will be the definitive song of the whole album. I don't think any other song on the album comes close to the whole message of the album and Tab's message above about all the people who failed to realise their dreams. It's slow and follows Tab's continuous story telling model. If I had to pick a single to promote the album, that would probably be it.

Full Track Listing:

1. Down The Rabbit Hole
2. Scrapbook
3. Vitamin Shoppe
4. House of The Rising Son
5. Cheap Disguise
6. Here Comes The Rain
7. Charades
8. Last Call
9. Manipulated Living
10. Ballad of The Man That Never Made It
11. Elmer Fudd Theory

All in all I give the album a solid 4 out of 5. If you are a hip hop fan or a music fan in general then this album deserves to be in your collection. So what are you waiting for? It's avaliable now to buy.

Aran.

So I had a bit of a relapse...

2009-03-02T13:15:00.003Z

Okay so I didn't post this weekend. Life has a funny thing of throwing unexpected events at you. That's all I have to say about that. Remember I've already cleared myself for not posting the weekend coming because I have quite a lot of things going on and I will barely be on the computer. Also today, I did voice training and after listening back to some old recordings I'm glad I did. I was all monotonous and boring. Bad times. Well when I have the podcast up that will change. Speaking of the podcast, if you want to have one of your songs featured on it contact me at brokentoybox@hotmail.com. Right onto the bands.

The first band we have are from Enfield, North London and go by the name of Retro Crooks. These guys are an alternative band with a great sound going between slow beats to fast rhythms. This mix works so well with how this band play and instantly draws you into them. Their songs about guys, girls, relationships and all the bits in between. Of course that subject has been done over and over (see the history of all music) but Retro Crooks seem to bring a new life to it and its hard to get bored of a subject that seems to have been taken away and polished to reveal something new underneath all that old stuff. The same could be said about Retro Crooks. They are by no means the first band to do what they do but they are a refreshing one.

The second band we listen to is called Draw Me Stories, from Cardiff, Wales. These guys describe themselves as an alternative folk rock band and its not hard to see why. You have the folk rhythms backing up with some very interesting lyrics. Draw Me Stories seem to be quite downbeat but they pull it off in such a way that you enjoy yourself and your nodding along to their music, well thats what I was doing... Anyway I'm really liking these guys and they do have a debut EP avaliable which I think would be a wise buy and could be one of the best records of the year.

I tell you what is a shame. Both these bands are unsigned and yet producing great music. They may not hit it big this year, a shame for the mainstream, but they have what it takes to knock down all barriers and by the beginning of 2010 start to invade. That's why both bands are BTB Rising Stars of 09.

Remember if you want to contact me send me an email at brokentoybox@hotmail.com or www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic.

I'm still going!

2009-02-26T13:18:00.003Z

Yes! I haven't stopped posting in a row yet. I knew writing this in the morning would have a better rate of success than when I used to do it mid afternoon when I hit the lazy stage. Also thanks to the bands who are sending MP3's for the podcast. If things go well then it will be up be the end of next week. However if some unexpected stuff happens then it will be pushed back depending on what actually happens. I do know that next weekend (Friday 6th to Sunday 8th) I will not be updating this site due to a family occassion. Other than that nothing major should get in the way. Let us begin.

The first band of today goes by the name of Controller, who are from the UK ( I could say Kent due to the interview with BBC Kent but I don't want to be wrong. Though if you are from Kent, Controller, you are doing us proud!). This pack of 4 is led by Jenna Donnelly who has a fantastic voice which really brings the music to life. of course it is helped by the musicians, Louis Newell on guitar, Paul Townsend on drums and Ethan Maltby on Bass, who bring amazing rhythm and tone that blend incredibly well with Jenna's voice. The music covers mainly relationships, well that's what I get from it, though I suppose you could take away your own meaning. I can see Controller going far and so also nominate them as a BTB Sound of 09 act.

Favourite Song: Something to Walk Out On.

The next act I have is Tab, more than just a rapper/singer but a lyrical genius. Tab hails from New Jersey and has been involved in music for the majority of his life. He has picked up a lotover the years and listening to his songs you can tell that he is a quality act. In a tip when R&B, Hip Hop and Rap has been invaded by those who go on about how great they are and how much money they have, it's refreshing to have an artist of the genre who goes back to what hip hop was and was meant to be, mainly sending a message of the wrongs of the world, sending messages to the people. I know a lot of my readers don't like rap or hip hop but give Tab a listen and tell me he isn't good. Tab, if you're reading this, consider me one of your newest fans and someone who will be spreading the word.

Favourite Song: There's too many to choose from.

Anyway that's today's post done. If you want to contact me:

www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
brokentoybox@hotmail.com

We continue!

2009-02-25T12:44:00.003Z

What?! I'm actually doing a second post in a row like I promised?! I fear we've slipped into some kind of alternate universe during the night or things are on the up. You decide on which answer you prefer or come up with your own. You have the choice after all. Right any updates I need to be telling you about?...Nope. I'll put updates up here for your bands if you ask me too though! Anyway let's crack on.

The first band we encounter today are, Draft Animals, who are from Port Orchard, Washington in the USA. They are an indie band though not the generic indie band everyone claims to be, because you know recently a lot of indie bands have started to suck. Draft Animals have, however, reinstated my belief that there are good hard working bands out there. Draft Animals even chuck in a bit of reggae with their song Western Jamaica which is something I wasn't expecting when I first hit their MySpace page. All in all a band that, should they continue to spring some surprises like that, will be stampeding through the music world and into the ears of many listeners.

The next act I have for you is a solo artist from Tasmania, Australia who goes by the name of Samuel Page. All I have to say is amazing. I have the belief that Samuel Page can do for Australia what Ladyhawke did for New Zealand and reaffirm its status in the modern music world. With Samuel Page you take what you will from his lyrics but it's almost guaranteed that you will connect with his songs in some way. I know I did and I was not expecting that. One of the BTB Sounds of 09? Yes, yes he is provided enough of you lot start supporting him and help in spreading the word of Samuel Page, listening to him, going to gigs if you are near his area or if he comes to you. Sam, keep it up and realise you have made many new fans today.

That's that for today then. Remember the following ways are how you can contact me:

www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

brokentoybox@hotmail.com

Fuck this shit!

2009-02-24T12:54:00.003Z

Do you know what I did today? I realised how lazy I have become. I scorned myself and told myself off for being so damn lazy. So now, unlike those empty promises I have fed you before, I mean it this time. BTB is not going to die because of my "I can't be bothered" attitude. I started this because I wanted to find new music and share it with others. This is the glorious return of the daily update. Not the weekly update or the monthly update. The weekly update. Now that I'm fired up again, lets do this!

The band I have found to kick start this reboot is called Pretend Girlfriend who are from Burnley. Pretend Girlfriend are a post punk/rock/pop mash up of sound and are catchy enough to be singing along and cool enough for you to proudly proclaim to be one of their fans. These 4 guys have a great chemistry between them with every member of the band playing an intricate part in carving out pure music awesomeness. They've recently recorded new material and are playing shows in Burnley. So if you're a Burnleyite (or is it Burnleyian?) go take a look because if Pretend Girlfriend's songs are anything to go by, they'll put on one hell of a show. They say it is during times like these when the economy has gone to shit and the public is apathetic to the world that the real music comes out to shine among the crap. Pretend Girlfriend are one of those shining lights guiding us through the shitstorm we're encountering.

Favourite Song: Shopping For Free

Now to slow things down slightly with a band called Just To Annoy Ray, who are from Cirencester. This bunch of girl and guys class themselves as Acoustic Folk Rock but you need to throw a bit of funk and the fact that JTAR have a certain ambience surrounding them. I will be the first to admit that similar bands to JTAR kind of threw me off liking this take on a genre but JTAR have reeled me back in with their hooks. The lead singer, Sian Chandler, has a hauntingly beautiful voice that you cannot get sick of hearing. Throw in the support from her co band members, Ray Hughes, Trevor Short, Sam Gerard and Nigel Gardner and you have one of the best recipes of a band yet.

Favourite Song: Loaded Gun

Both bands are currently unsigned so if you work for a record label , snap up these treasures.

Well that's it for today. I need breakfast. To contact me:

www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

E mail: brokentoybox@hotmail.com

Changes!

2009-01-21T14:32:00.003Z

So some important changes have occurred, most notably the USA has a new President. Other important changes concern this here blog. Over the next couple of weeks you will see a string of changes, the layout of the site could change quite dramatically though I haven't decided how, a new podcast should be up soon enough and now with a webcam at hand, some video blogs could be made. Hooray for progress I say.

Right first band is 3BobNation who hail from Gravesend, England. So who or what are they? Well 3BobNation are an Indie, Punky, Poppy threesome who bring out some smooth listening songs, combined with commentary of everyday life and every song they have made have catchy lyrics, catchy tunes and are generally all around catchy. The amount of times I used catchy in that last sentence should give you a sense on what you're missing out on by not listening to them. I've seen them live a few times and they know how to get a crowd on their side by putting on a great show for all who have attended one of their many gigs.

Band number 2 are called, Base Battalion, from London, England. Who or what are they? I'm going out on a limb by first guessing they are human, if they aren't then this is both interesting and worrisome. Base Battalion are an experimental rock band who use the art of sound distortion like experts. The vocals of Swan compliments the sound the band produce who also consists of fEET, fLash and L.Pops ( I am not making these names up, I swear). A sound hot pick for 2009? You better believe it!

Well those are the two bands I bring you today. It's only 2 today because well I am working on quite a lot of things so time is naturally being a bitch. Listen and love!

Got a suggestion? Want your band to be heard on the BTB podcast? Then contact me:

brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

Just checking in...

2009-01-16T15:30:00.002Z

I know. I know. I haven't posted in over a month. I've been busy/ ill. However some developments. The new podcast is being worked on and should be up in the next week or so. Also I have a new laptop which has a built in webcam so maybe some video blogs will be done.

Watch this space!

Finally! (Part 2)

2008-12-09T16:05:00.003Z

After much haggling over the phone and the cost of a small fortune, I finally have the internet up and running in my flat so now I can type this from the comfort of my living room instead of the crowded computer suite on campus. Oh happy days indeed! Now that we're all expecting regular updates of this here blog, I am restarting production on the BTB Podcast which means I need your music to showcase! Let's restart this journey and get it going properly.

The first act are called Dandelion Wine from New York City. This trio don't just make music for music's sake but also to convey messages of the world we all live in and by bringing these messages out, they try to make the world a better place to live in. The actual music they play is a relaxed, mellow sound and though there are some similarities to other indie bands, there is also enough of a difference to put Dandelion Wine in their own little niche. Dandelion Wine, with their sound, make you think maybe life isn't so bad. Give them a listen and let the sound wash over you.

Favourite Song: Drunk Driving

The second band today is called The Boundary who are from Almada, Portugal. These guys are the more typical indie band which we here on the radio quite a lot. However this does not take away the fact that The Boundary are an entertaining band. Their songs have kind of any early Libertines vibe about them which gives them a good staying power. I say give them a listen and discover another good indie band.

Favourite SongL Overrated.

Sunday Post

2008-11-23T16:05:00.004Z

Yes I am doing the rare thing of posting on Sunday. I usually don't do this as I am more often than not hungover. I was expecting to be hungover today but what do you know, I'm not. So I thought I'd do something worthwhile, no not my Journalism essay, but write about our favourite subject, music. I feel on Sunday is the best day to listen to music because for me that's when the world stops being hectic.

Now, British Rap/Grime has only a few truly recognised icons in the mainstream music light such as Dizzee Rascal and Lethal Bizzle. However I think I've found one of the most exciting and probably one of the most important rap group that has ever existed. These guys rap to you about the real issues in the world in a brutally honest way and then leave you to deal with the questions raised. I give to you Scribe Tribe. I could write a lot of things about this lot but the true justice and appreciation for them is by listening to their words. If you truly appreciate music in all its forms then sing these guys praises, vote for them at:

www.totallyunsigned.co.uk/members/467/

Support them in any and all ways possible. Scribe Tribe, I salute you.

I, also for the first time, don't have a second band to mention. It's a first I know. I think I need to get my head together before I find some more talent. Until then...

At last new headphones!

2008-11-20T13:56:00.003Z

So why have I taken ages to actually write anything? Is it because I'm lazy? Maybe. Is it because I have had a ton of uni work to do? Possibly. Is it because my access to the Internet has been sporadic? Almost certainly. However the biggest reason is that I haven't had a pair of headphones to listen to music. Why is this important you ask? Well, when I listen to the bands I review I like to be surrounded by their sound so I can get a real feel for their music. That's a feeling you can't get out of speakers when other people are walking about and talking. Headphones help me block out the outside world and focus completlly onthe band at hand. I will say that posting for the next week shall be sporadic but from December 2nd I shall finally have the internet in my flat so I have no excuses. Onto the first band!

This first band are called Lite Brite. No! The glowing guys such as this one,

have not come together to creat a band, though that would be pretty cool. Lite Brite are a band from Sacramento, California and a great band at that. Take some influences from classic indie rock, mix them together with some contemporary sounds and you have what could be one of the most exciting sounds around today. These guys have a sound that could take you from sitting around listening to their music, to hearing it in an indie club somewhere and having you up on your feet. I have one thing to say to this band. Shine on Lite Brite, Shine On.

BTB Favourite Song: Shine On

The second band is from Oslo, Norway and go by the name of While You Slept. Now I have a love/hate relationship with music from the Scandinavian region. I'll tell you why, the biggest band from Scandinavia in the world was and still is ABBA. How can this still be the case when we have bands like While You Slept on the circuit?! It makes no sense! While You Slept combine the voices of Jakob Jones and Benedikte Wallace to create a vocal sound that cuts right down to the core of you. Combine that voice with some of the best muscians, Nikolai Grasaasen, Torgeir Beyer and Øystein M. Johansen and you get a sound that is really powerful, and full of talent. I'm now going to go start a campaign to get music management companies to have more scouts in the Scandinavian countries. If While You Slept are anything to go by, then it is pretty much an untouched treasure chest.

Favourite Song: Moments Gone

Thus ends another day of finding new music while bringing you guys some listening pleasure. To the two bands who I mentioned today, please keep making music as it is simply brilliant.

Aran

The Welcoming Return of BTB! insert maniacal laughter here

2008-10-12T14:30:00.004+01:00

That's right everybody! I'm finally back to doing what I do best and that's finding the music that you want to hear. It's been ages since I wrote anything worthwhile here and recommended new bands for your listening pleasure and for that I apologise. However though the blog is making its welcome return, the podcast will still be on the sidelines until all things with that are sorted and I build up a back catalogue of tracks from bands. Enough of this faffing around! Let us begin the journey once more!

First we're hitting Portland, Maine, USA to find a band named The Murder Weapon. Formed in 2004, these guys have come a long way and are making tracks that sound professional but retain their charm and character. I can honestly say they sound like all the best bits of all your favourite big time rock bands, thrown into a bowl and mixed together then unleashed on a tour of quality. The voice and guitar playing of Jon Nothing, bass playing D Murder and the drumming of Cory Marz brought together creates one of the most exciting underground bands of our time. Let yourself become a victim of The Murder Weapon now.

Favourite Track: He's Gone

The next band to feature on this return post come from my favourite city in the world, London! Recommended to me by a friend, Jack Gant, this band are The Tenets. These guys take the classic ideals of punk rock and bring those ideals into the modern era. This four piece have more influences than any other band I've reviewed to date, everything from other bands and musicians, to authors, to films. With so many influences I'm certain that The Tenets will be making music for a long time and that can only be a good thing.

Favourite Track: Bridges and Balconies.

Well due to time constraints that's all I can bring you today. I'm going to make this a regular thing once more so I should be posting again tomorrow. Hooray for that! Remember I want you to recommend bands to me and support BTB. Do it. You'll love it.

Aran

Technical difficulties!

2008-10-02T18:56:00.001+01:00

So I haven't added any new music or podcast or updated this. This is because I lack internet in my new home still and the computer lab computers have no speakers. Annoying I know. Once BT stop being silly we'll get some music going again!

It's been missions!

2008-08-28T13:48:00.006+01:00

Yeah so apologies for being away for so long. I've been busy getting a lot of stuff sorted at work and for my upcoming move (only 12 days away!) so I haven't been able to find much new music. Instead today I will come up with a Top Ten of bands who I have reviewed/seen live for today. I need something to get me motivated so without further ado it's The BTB Top 10 so far!

10: boxViolet - boxViolet are one of my favourite bands because they are genuinely different. Their sound hails back to a bygone era when rhythm effects and sound effects were the key to making music that would top the charts. boxViolet are bringing that back and what a welcome return it is!

Favourite Song: It's still 'Sad Sad Girl'

9: Frenchie - This guy is Pop at its Poppiest and to say anything else is a lie. Frenchie doesn't try to disguise his pop sound, like so many artists do, but embraces it and that is the mark of a true musician. This a pop act Mika should be looking up to and saying I want to be like him because you know, Mika isn't great. Frenchie is.

Favourite Song: Oh What A Feeling.

8: Fire In The Hole - This is a rock band with a twist. You may think their sound is similar to others and then they bring in the funk. If the Red Hot Chili Peppers had kids with Michael Jackson then I'm sure Fire In The Hole would be their offspring. These guys were born to make music and make it they shall!

Favourite Song: The Human Race Erased

7: Sound The Attack - This group epitomises heavy rock and they do it well. It's all you can do to stop yourself becoming emersed in their sound and jumping and singing with them. So my advice. Don't stop yourself. Let Sound The Attack attack your senses with full force and you'll be all the better for it. Rock has found one of its new saviours.

Favourite Song: Bully Empire

6. Private Dancers - I love Brazil for many things and Private Dancers are one of them. This lot know how to make music that people will still be humming long after the songs have finished. If CSS were the first true big band out of Brazil then Private Dancers will be the second. I know it because I say it. To disagree that Private Dancers are an amazing band should be punishable in some way. I don't how but it would be painful.

Favourite Song: The Form

5. Carmen - Carmen are brilliant. They have such a great sound about them that I bought their album to hear the gems they hadn't put up on their MySpace. It's a brilliant debut album and I one I would recommend to anyone who is serious about their music. Their rock pierced with melodies makes for listening you won't forget.

Favourite Song: Be My Forever

4. Plug In - These French rockers are brilliant and were the joint pick of the bunch when I asked listeners for their band of the podcast when these were featured. Surely to be as big, if not bigger than their french contemporaries The Teenagers. We're reaching an age where, I hate to say it, guitar bands are becoming one and the same. Plug In have something about them that sets them apart and I can't wait for their EP.

Favourite Song: Misters

3. Crossed Keys - My favourite band from the USA. They won the Californian Battle of The Bands and for good reason. They're brilliant. They sent me their CD and I'm not bored with it at all. I really can't wait until Crossed Keys come to the UK. I'll be right at the front of the crowd singing along to all their songs. They had a big impact on me from the first listen and that impact gets better with each listen.

Favourite Song: Sin In a Bottle

2. PARK - Nothing can describe how mega their sound is. I can try but I wouldn't do them justice. This band need to be big. They just have too! Their songs, especially Not For Me and Nameless Faces, are so damn epic that they need to be played on the Main Stage at Reading and Leeds. Just listen to them and I know you'll agree. There's a reason I haven't stopped listening to them!

1. Letters From London - Okay so I never reviewed these guys on here but I've seen them live enough times to justify why they are number 1. I've followed these guys for the last 3 years and seen them grow bigger and better. They even have a Japanese street team! How many bands can claim that? They're live shows are always fantastic and if they can they will let you invade the stage on their last song. John Sterry creates lyrics as well as Pete Doherty if not better, Billy Smith plays Bass like a demon who's escaped from hell, Danny Smith plays the guitar like a mainiac because well he is one and Christian Parker bangs his drums like a madman with talent.

My Top 10 and I'm sure you'd agree. BTB is back! Woop!

Still alive!

2008-08-14T00:21:00.001+01:00

Alright no music in this post. It's just a confirmation that this place isn't dead. Hopefully I'll get things moving again within the next couple of days.

Damn Work!

2008-08-01T15:47:00.004+01:00

Yes I have been working pretty much non stop so I haven't had the time to review any bands however this working condition should subside by Monday. Until then expect this to be the update to tide you over this weekend. Of course to do that I have to tantalize and tease you so that is what I will do.

The first band only have an EP teaser on their MySpace but this one teaser gives insight to more talent than most bands manage through a whole set list of songs. They go by the name of Kids Uncanny and they are from London. You can tell from this teaser they do all kind of styles and mixes and because of them I'm now going to have to end my money saving habit and buy their EP when it comes out. If this means I don't have heat for month then so be it because the talent this band shows is worth it.

Favourite Song: If only there was more than the teaser. I already need their songs!

The second band I have for you are called British Standard and after only hearing one song on their MySpace I think they are brilliant! These Essex lads don't play about and are right in your face from the opening of 'Scoundrel' and will stay there until you give into them. Another plus is that you can download Scoundrel for free off of their MySpace. Do it, you won't be disappointed. I can see British Standard becoming memorable and bigger as the years go on.

Favourite Song; Well it has to be Scoundrel....it is the only one I've heard.

And the thrid band I have for you is called Helium from Huddersfield who mix rock, blues and calming rhythms to produce some excellent music. These guys are jumpers, in the sense that no two songs sound the same which is what I like about Helium. They have songs that appeal to everyone. One second they've got a song that will calm your nerves and they jump to a funk induced frenzy. Helium will keep on rising and rising with their music. They are also giving their songs away. Huzzah!

Favourite Song: Some Things

Well I'll update this blog again on Monday, unless something comes up which I'm hoping won't.

Contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
Facebook (link provided above)

Burnout

2008-07-28T19:00:00.009+01:00

Sorry I haven't been very active recently but a few days I just completely burned out as a lot of outside pressures got to me which meant I wasn't at all motivated or, if I'm being truthful, bothered about this place. However I'm past that but do expect a bit of disruption in the times I post because I am going to be at work a lot over the next few weeks.

Right to start Jesster once again graces us with a new review. The undercover reviewer who no one knows about, unless you do actually know the person behind Jesster...but we'll pretend you don't.

Another Manchester band for you :)

The Interruptions (http://www.theinterruptions.co.uk/) hail from Manchester and Blackpool,
and have been around since 2004.This band caught my attention because, as an indie band,
they’re not something I would usually listen to.However, as the intro to “Paul” played,
it made me want to give them a chance.
With influences including Joy Division
and the Stone Roses,they manage to catch the sound of these bands,
and spice it up with a little of their own flavour.
I’m sure these guys are going to have plenty of success.

Best song: Liquid

Jesster.

Now the first band I, Aran, bring you are called The Cuts from Paisley, Scotland,
an exciting indie punk band,with enough talent to take over the
UK with their tunes.They have a great variation singing about different
subjects and taking you through a journey which at times is slow but at others
speeds up which hurtles you forward through musical brilliance.
Keep an eye on this lot because I sense big things.

Aran's Favourite Song: We're Alright

And the final band to bring musical joy to my ears are called The Mouth, from somewhere
in the UK, the exact location which alludes me. However what does not allude me is the fact that The Mouth are a great band. Granted I've only heard on of their songs, entitled Bow And Arrows. I look forward to hearing more from these guys and I don't think we're in for a long wait.

Aran's Favourite Song: Bow and Arrows obviously....

Right that's it for this day. We'll bring you more in a bit.

contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
or the Facebook page!

If Music were...

2008-07-24T17:22:00.003+01:00

In my humble opinion music is like a mine. You have to dig and dig through a lot of unimaginative or boring stuff before you find the few good gems. Some days you find a lot others nothing. I didn't post anything yesterday because I could not find a single musician that inspired me and that was after an afternoon of searching. Then and there I was about ready to give up forever and let this place die....However I'm going to keep on digging because I know there are more gems to find among the rubbish.

The first band are a very new band, just starting early this year and they are called Three and A Half Englishmen, who are from Kenilworth in the Midlands, England. Firstly I want to thank Three and A Half Englishmen for restoring my faith in music. These 4 guys are an indie band and sound like they've been playing the circuit for years, not few months, with their already distinctive sound. Sure they haven't brought anything new but I'm sure they will be an amazing band, one for the future because of the rate they are working at. They're coming out of nowhere but they'll soon be heard everywhere.

Aran's Favourite Song: Clowns

The second band are from a small village in Wiltshire, called Broughton Giffin which is near bath and they are called Port Erin. This 3 piece have been about since 2007 and mix a style of indie, funk and rock in a unique way. They mix the sound very well which keep their tracks fresh and exciting. Vocalist, ReubenTyghe as a voice that is very distinctive and sets Port Erin out from the rest as well as the rhythms and the sounds that are created by this exciting lot. Give them a listen.

Aran's Favourite Song: Day's Soon Fly

I'm afraid I've only got two bands today because of time pressure. I'll have more bands for you tomorrow!

Contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

or the Facebook page by clicking the link above!

The 4th Podcast and more Music

2008-07-22T12:38:00.003+01:00

Well finally I've managed to get a podcast up on the MySpace page. Get over there and have a listen...after you've read this of course. I'm quite glad all the sound has finally been sorted out which means a lot more better shows in the future to showcase new bands. If you are a member of a band who wants to be on the podcast send me an mp3 to brokentoybox@hotmail.com. It looks like good times ahead for Broken Toy Box.

Right the first band contacted me after reading this blog and they are The Black Tricks, who are from Herts, UK. The Black Tricks are a punk band who sing about all kinds of social observations. They have a great sound and I think they should've been signed up a long time ago bringing their music to the masses. I cannot find a single weak song among the ones they have on their MySpace page which speaks volumes about this band. If I were to recommend a punk band that stood out and were relevant to today then The Black Tricks would be that band. Check them out now.

Aran's Favourite Song: Look What You've Done

The 2nd band is called Inside the Far and are from the USA. They label themselvses as ant Alt./Prog Rock band and I agree with that but I'd also go to say they are infused with some electronica which gives rise to a new and exciting band steadily rising to the top. The sound they mix along with the hauntingly brilliant vocals of Christy Trinkler stays with you long after the last moments of one of their songs has stopped. That is the mark of a truly great band, to stick in your mind even though you are not listening to them.

Aran's Favourite Song: Anger Spins the Empire

And the final band today is called Change It To Jack, from Portland USA. This band has been about since 2005 and they produce some great rock/pop tunes. Some songs are slow which keep the mood nice and mellow and some of the songs are louder quicker which make you want to jump up and dance. They've recently signed with Greenland Music Group, hoping to spread their sound across the world. With the music they are producing that will surely be no problem. Change It To Jack have a bright future ahead of them and things can only get better.

Aran's Favourite Song: 10000 Pounds

That's the 3 bands for today. Remember the new podcast is up on the myspace.

Contact:
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
Click on the Facebook link above or search BrokenToyBox Music on Facebook.

It's Summer...

2008-07-21T12:13:00.003+01:00

Yes that's right, the summer holidays are pretty much upon us. It affects me due to now my brother and sister also being at home for the next six weeks which means updating this place is going to become a very difficult job indeed as well as recording. However I shall persevere or lock them both outside in the garden...I haven't quite decided yet. I'm going to be bringing you 3 bands today as Jesster will only be popping up from time to time.

The first band I bring you is called Next Day, from Santa Cruz, California who are a Prog Rock band who have some good tuneage. The two songs on their MySpace don't have any lyrics but they do have some excellent guitar playing. I know they have songs with vocals or they say they do so I can't say much more about this lot until they bring out some more songs and I can really see and the vocalists and the tune mix.

Aran's Favourite Song: Make Your Past

The next band I bring you is called Caledonia who are from Halifax & Toronto, Canada. These guys have something about them that makes them different but familiar. I want to say these guys sound a bit like the Editors but then I stop and think no they sound like someone else. They may play with your mind in this respect but they also make your mind appreciate good music which Caledonia have quite a lot of.

Aran's Favourite Song: City Is Burning

And the final band for today is called, Paid Pilots who are from Minneapolis, Illinois, USA an indie experimental rock band. I'm really liking these guys sound which mixes the traditional indie sound with some very well placed effects to make their music sound a lot more real and less generic and samey like the majority of the global indie scene. I said last time that electro and experimental bands are the way forward. Paid Pilots is another of these bands I expect to find success.

Aran's Favourite Song: Kito

Right I'm off now to record the latest podcast which should be up later today. In a bit!

A New Writer joins the ranks!

2008-07-18T12:04:00.003+01:00

So I've bought in a partner to help with finding bands and this person is simply known as Jesster. In a way I feel like BTB has its own version of the Stig. Well welcome Jesster to the team and I hope for a long and prosperous working relationship. As Jesster is new I feel we should use their band review to kick off this post. Here it is:

"For my first review, I’ve gone for a local band. Whipcord are a trio of Mancunians, with a rocky sound that hints towards influences of Queens of the Stone Age and Motorhead. They aren’t breaking into new never-heard-before areas with their sound, but they don’t need to. Their blend of music is perfect to rock out to, and is a welcome change from the generic indie bands that dominate the current Manchester music scene.

And the best thing? They’re constantly gigging, so there’s no excuses for missing them live!"

Jesster

A great band brought to our attention by Jesster. Cheers for that.

Right now a couple of bands I've found for you to peruse as well. The first is from Tunbridge Wells and they are called Welcome to Winchester who are a 4 piece indie rock band. They seem to get their influences from all sorts of rock bands from Queen to Biffy Clyro. What they do is create some great tunes that in my opinion need to played loud to get the full effect of the sound Welcome to Winchester are trying to put across. They have a number of shows coming up so go check them out live.

Aran's Favourite Song: Sight

And for our final band today we have Frosted Tipz, who blend electro and rock perfectly. They hail from Edmonton, Canada and have been making music since 2004. This foursome know how to make some brilliant music and honestly I'm surprised they haven't really been heard of outside of Canada. I predicting that electro rock is the future and Frosted Tipz will be one of those bands to rise to the top because it.

Aran's Favourite Song: Sea of Bronze

And that's it for today. Just want to once again say welcome to Jesster and also hope you, the readers, enjoy the music that Jesster and myself recommend. Remember to contact BTB do the following:

e-mail: brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
Or click on the Facebook link above and become a fan today!

Music and Caffeine really goes well.

2008-07-17T11:17:00.003+01:00

So after waking up stupidly early today I've resorted to loud music and lots of caffeine to wake me up a bit. So far it's working slowly, I just need waking up or a lie in. Anyway, what musically gifted entities have I found for you today. Read on and you shall be enlightened.

The first act is called Wake Up Mordecai who are from Ohio in the USA. Francis and Mordecai, the two band members, create easy listening acoustic pop that even on a day like today, a cloudy rainy miserable day, they can't avoid cheering you up. They sing about girls and relationships and the ups and downs of the two. These guys are really worth listening to if you want some bright sunshine in your life. Do it now!

BTB Favourite Song: Girls don't ride in viking ships.

The next band I have for you is called Codego who are from Halifax in the Northwest of England. These six guys, Lee, Ozzi, Figgy, Sam, Danny and Alex, know how to create some great chilled out indie rock and some louder rock as well. They're making quite a name for themselves in the North and I'm sure it won;t be long before they are breaking ground all over the UK where their kind of sound is highly praised. Get a listening to Codego now ladies and gentlemen.

BTB Favourite Song: The Music will See Us Through

And the final band for today is Future Chaser from Derry, Ireland. Brilliantly loud punk rock from theses 4 gentlemen who were formely known as Organized Confusion. With their great sound I can't see anything standing in their way while they make music which really will bring out the rocker in all of you. I'm one of many who is excited by what Future Chaser do in, well the future.

BTB Favourite Song: Free

So that's that for today. I'm going back to bed...

Contact:

brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
or click on that Facebook link above.

Searching...

2008-07-16T11:53:00.003+01:00

Again I have found it difficult to find musical acts that make any impression on me but I kept on going until I found some bands that were worth my time and worth your time. After filing through a lot of crap I want to thank these bands and all the others I have reviewed so far for keeping my faith in music strong. Also I'm searching as it were for someone to help me with this, an additional writer so if interested then contact me.

The first I have found that is very talented is boxViolet from LA (yes its LA again...) who to me sounds like a modern mix of Eurythmics and Blondie rolled into one. As soon as I heard the first beat from "Sad Sad Girl", I knew that I would be hooked into listening to every song boxViolet had to offer and then listening to them again just to hear the musical genius they hold. If anyone deserves worldwide fame then boxViolet are that band. I dare you to tell me these guys aren't talented because you'd be wasting your breath.

BTB Favourite Song: Sad Sad Girl

The next band I have for you is called Attention Now! from Stavanger Norway. Now this is of the best indie electro rock I have heard in a long time. The blend the sounds they have really well topped with two talented vocalists and some great musicians and you have a recipe for perfection. Attention Now! are that perfection you seek in everything else and more. I cannot find a single fault with this band...well one. I'm not going to be able to see them live for a long long time!

BTB Favourite Song: Sarcasm Shooter

And the final band I have for you today is called Noise Republic and are from Nottingham, England. This pop punk twosome know how to write some good tunes and lyrics. These guys are working on their album and if listening to the songs they have on their MySpace and Facebook page doesn't make you wait in anticipation for that release then nothing will. The music that Noise Republic create can be listened to in any situation and in a way gives the songs something of a keeper status by which I mean that their songs will not be forgotten 5,10 or even 20 years from now. Get listening!

BTB Favourite Song: Gambit

Download: Gambit from Noise Reoublic's MySpace

Contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
or Facebook
or www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

The Music Notebook.

2008-07-15T12:46:00.004+01:00

So I got a notebook yesterday to keep track of all the bands I have wrote about and was astonished to find I had written about 68 bands so far. I didn't know it had been that many already! Good times I feel and all quality bands I feel and I'm sure you all agree. Anyway I've noticed that people getting in touch with me, you guys, has dwindled so I say change that and send me a message at brokentoybox@hotmail.com, join the Facebook group and tell your friends. It'd be nice to know who is actually reading this.

Right the first band I have for you is called Broken Mile who are from the UK and have a great sound about them. They really stand out from the current crop of music mixing rock and the blues in a brilliant and exciting way. Music has not been changed like this since the likes of Nirvana and Pearl Jam pioneered Prog. Rock. Broken Mile have such a great sound to them that's its impossible not to like this lot. I tip them to be one of the breakthrough bands of 2009 if not this year.

BTB Favourite Song: A Toast To Sympathy.

The second band I bring you is called Wheels On Fire who are from Athens, Ohio. Their rhythms they make echo from the past especially the 50's and early 60's which make them sound like a happy go lucky bunch of talented musicians. Every song makes you want to just jump up and dance and sing along with the band. Honestly this band makes me think that we should all be wearing leather jackets and hanging out in diners while the Fonz is standing in the back nodding his head along to the beat. If you don't like the songs and the image this band seem to portray then I feel sorry for you. Hooray for Wheels On Fire.

BTB Favourite Song: Too Stubborn To Fold

And the final I bring to you today is called Noterock who hail from Pasadena, California. who mix hip hop with indie rock to provide a great mix of tunes for your listening pleasure. They seem to take their influence from the very best of both the rock and R'n'B greats which means music that appeals to a wide range of people. I say give them a listen and let the music they make soak into your brain. You'll have their songs stuck in your head and even then you'll want more.

BTB Favourite Song: Rebound

Download of the day: I have to say download the songs from Broken Mile's MySpace. You will not be disappointed.