TIPS FOR 2014: PART TWO

11. THE HYPE THEORY

Over the years I've struggled to enjoy female-fronted bands (apart from the obvious), however 2013 provided me with some bands that are certainly changing the way I feel about lady vocalists. The Hype Theory are one of those bands that have really stood out for me and have matured with their music and are sure to be taking over many rock Festivals this summer.


For Fans Of: Tonight Alive, Mallory Knox, The First


12. GUNNING FOR TAMAR

Okay so the image above is a little incorrect, as they are now a three-piece. After a line-up change towards the end of the year the Gunning for Tamar fellas have been working hard to perfect their sound in order to move forward with the band, and I for one am very excited to see them take on 2014 and create quite a racket.


For Fans Of: Biffy Clyro, Twin Atlantic, Arcane Roots

13. JIM LOCKEY AND THE SOLEMN SUN

Some of the nicest Gentleman in rock, I can tell you that much. Local heroes in their hometown of Cheltenham, 2014 will be the year they tour the UK and travel the World with their infectious melodies and Festival anthems.


For Fans Of: The Xcerts, Frank Turner, We Are The Ocean


14. THE RATELLS

Though to some, they will be a name unknown. The Ratells have had an incredible year, selling out 90% of their UK headline shows and appreciating every single one of their fans for the support, they're blend of warm-hearted indie with a big voice is what appeals to so many. Expect these guys to appear on big support slots and stages over the next 12 months.


For Fans Of: Propellers, Young Kato, Coasts


15. MOOSE BLOOD

Moose Blood, Moose Blood, Moose Blood. Oh how I love you so. The lyrics make you go weak at the knees and they are swiftly becoming the fresh-faces of UK punk music with a sweeter soul. There's no fancy stage shows or mystery behind them, they just love what they do and they do it well.


For Fans Of: Jimmy Eat World, Gnarwolves, Brand New

16. WE THE WILD

Since the demise of Futures in 2012, these two have been busy boys working away on their new music. Their EP 'Vol. 1' is one of my favourites of the year and their clean indie/electro/pop/whatever you want to call it sound has got me pressing the repeat button frequently.


For Fans Of: Bombay Bicycle Club, Bastille, Foster The People

17. FORT HOPE

Fort Hope are proof of why you should always check out support acts. I discovered them whilst at London's KOKO to see Jimmy Eat World and they put on such a good performance that as soon as I was home, I looked them up. Vocalist Jon Gaskin has a mind-blowingly good voice and their songs hit you with a full-force that will only leave a lasting impression.


For Fans Of: Blitz Kids, Hey Vanity, Jimmy Eat World

18. AMBER RUN

Taking on the BBC introducing stage at Reading and Leeds is never an easy task, but Amber Run took it all in their stride. Their music leaves a huge smile on the face and reminds me of various summer adventures. British music at it's finest.


For Fans Of: Two Door Cinema Club, Charlie Simpson, The Rocket Summer

19. CROOKS

Though I don't always fancy angry music as much as I used to and quite frankly the scene is getting a little over-crowded, Crooks are pushing through to prove why they deserve success. The passion oozes out of them in their live shows and they always give their best, whether the crowd big or small. If you want a new band to really get your teeth into, Crooks are for you.


For Fans Of: Mallory Knox, We Are Fiction, Architects

20. SAINT RAYMOND

Otherwise known as Callum (but let's face it, that's not as impressive as calling yourself a Saint), I just can't get enough of this guys voice. The up-beat guitar twangs of single Fall At Your Feet got me hooked straight away. With new EP Young Blood out at the end of January and a brief support slot with Haim, this chappy is going to have a bloody good year, I can feel it.


For Fans Of: Foals, Jamie T, Lewis Watson

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2013

It's that time of year, everyone is looking back at what has been another incredible year for music and trying to choose their favourite records, bands, festivals, everything! I'm gonna keep it short and sweet for you, so here is my Top 10 albums for 2013...

1. PARAMORE - PARAMORE

Paramore have probably been my favourite band since the age of 15, so it's not surprise they've made it onto this list. This album I feel is significant because it truly shows how much they've developed and experimented with their sound, without straying too far from what they're known for. It's got songs that pack a punch, feel-good anthems and sweet acoustic melodies that appeal to a variety of music fans. 

Favourite Track: Part II

2. THE 1975 - THE 1975

This is a given, right? I don't know many people that haven't called this an album of the year. Rising to fame with single 'Chocolate', The 1975 have had the most outstanding year and will only continue to succeed. Their self-titled debut album is only proof of how they'll survive for years to come. 

Favourite Track: Girls

3. A DAY TO REMEMBER - COMMON COURTESY

After an on-going dispute with their record label, Common Courtesy nearly didn't exist and what a shame that would have been. Fans have waited a while, but it is most certainly worth the it. Brutal breakdowns and pop-punk anthems with HUGE choruses, it doesn't get much better. 

Favourite Track: Best of Me

4. WE ARE FICTION - ONE FOR SORROW

I've supported We Are Fiction massively this year, and their debut album shows why. They've taken the time to craft the record perfectly, ensuring that there are no faults and it shows what We Are Fiction are capable of. With hints of hip-hop and early-grunge influences, We Are Fiction are slowly filling a hole once burned out by the demise of Alexisonfire. 

Favourite Track: Tilt

5. DAUGHTER - IF YOU LEAVE

There are no words to describe how absolutely stunning this record is. Discovering Daughter a couple years back, I haven't regretted my love for them since. With dark, yet elegant lyrics with the most timid vocal layered over acoustic guitars, everything about Daughter's music is stunning. Lay back and enjoy. 

Favourite Track: Touch

6. CHVRCHES - THE BONES OF WHAT YOU BELIEVE

This Scottish trio took me a little by surprise. If you described them on paper I would probably have dismissed them instantly. However, their elctro-indie vibes with twisted words got me completely hooked. Big stars of 2013, I expect only bigger things to come from them next year. 

Favourite Track: Night Sky

7. THE HYPE THEORY - CAPTIVES

First thing's first, let's brush off the Paramore comparisons. The Hype Theory have thoroughly matured with their second record and is certainly leading them on a path to success. I never used to be a big fan of female-fronted bands (other than the big P) but The Hype Theory have definitely changed my mind, and could do the same for you. 

Favourite Track: Reverie

8. MALLORY KNOX - SIGNALS

Mallory Knox have completely blown up this year, and it's strange rewinding back to January, when Signals was released, and remembering they were still fairly unknown. Now, they quickly make their way up radio playlists and are given tour/festival slots many bands would be jealous of. Proof that a lot of hard work goes a long way. 

Favourite Track: Hello

9. GABRIELLE APLIN

I've followed Gabrielle Aplin's rise to stardom since she was around 15 and singing You Me At Six covers on her bathroom floor. Now, she's one of the most humble musicians to grace the industry. She's lyrically, and musically talented and her debut album is full of beautiful tracks to soften any mood. 

Favourite Track: Alive

10. BASTILLE - BAD BLOOD

Another band that have had a brilliant year. I remember interviewing the guys in November last year before they played to 150 people. Now they've got a best-selling album and a handful of sold-out tours under their belt, Bastille are like a breath of fresh air amongst all the varying indie-bands around. 

Favourite Track: Icarus

What are your favourites?