On June 21st 2024, the deathcore landscape was shaken by the arrival of Hollow Stares and their debut single, 'Sleep' INSTAGRAM  | YOUTUBE   | SPOTIFY  | COVER ART BY A NOOR ADNAN | Press Photo by Sisi Burn This track, a powerful blend of raw emotion and technical prowess, signals the emergence of a band ready to make their mark in the heavy metal scene. 'Sleep' dives deep into the chilling realm of sleep paralysis; The track's journey from concept to completion is a story of perseverance and creativity. Daniel, fresh out of his master's program in audio production, found himself navigating the uncertainties of the UK's job market. Amidst this, he poured his energy into crafting instrumental tracks, one of which caught the attention of his long-time collaborator, Ben Fleming. With Ben's vocal talents added to the mix, 'Bass Shmack' evolved into the epic 'Sleep.' This collaboration marks the official birth of Hollow Stares, a project steeped in the duo's shared history and mutual respect. Daniel's production expertise and Ben's commanding vocals create a formidable partnership, evident in every note of their debut. The instrumentation on 'Sleep' is as intense as the subject matter. Featuring the Ibanez Universe BK777 1998, strandberg NX 6, Dingwall NG3, Getgood Drums, and Ben's vocals captured through a Shure SM7B, the track is a masterclass in modern metal production. Philip Marsden's mastering adds the final polish, ensuring 'Sleep' hits with unparalleled force. 'Sleep is a song about sleep paralysis and the terror that comes with it,' says Daniel. 'But for us, it represents much more. It's our first completed song as Hollow Stares, and it embodies the start of what we hope will be a long, successful career.' To accompany the release, a professionally crafted visualizer with lyrics offers fans a gripping visual experience that complements the track's intense energy. For enthusiasts of Periphery, Lorna Shore, and Slaughter to Prevail, 'Sleep' delivers a familiar yet fresh auditory punch. Hollow Stares is a testament to Daniel and Ben's resilience and artistic vision. Despite economic and social challenges, they have channeled their struggles into creating music that resonates deeply. Their commitment to their craft and each other is the driving force behind their sound. As 'Sleep' garners attention and acclaim, Hollow Stares is already preparing for future releases. This debut single is merely the beginning of a journey that promises to redefine deathcore and leave a lasting impact on the genre.

It would appear three is the magic number… Words - Beth Foster-Hunter Another year of Dot to Dot, another year our fair city was filled with artists from near and far. Within the celebration you could find a myriad of musical flavours to savour. However, this year I chose to spend most of my day dotting around venues on the fringe, experiencing what our local talent had to offer. Not only did this turn out to be a cracking choice, full of impressive performances, but I noticed a little pattern on my travels… The pattern of three. Yes, almost every band I saw was composed of a glorious threesome! So, in keeping with the theme, I have selected three acts, made up of three members, from three different venues who left me wanting more… Jahrel JP & The Future – The Carousel Kicking us off with a hattrick of talent, we had Bobby on the drums - bearing both his chest and percussion prowess - as he delivered righteous rhythms. Dan’s guitar appeared, almost impossibly, to invite a soprano to the stage, as he danced between rock, blues, psychedelia, indie, post-punk and what I can only describe as spoken-word-rock-gospel? An aural feat indeed! Then we had our front man – Jahrel JP, presenting us his unique vocals and bass with the kind of unbridled joy and wit you pray for at a live performance. They began with a call to ‘step inside the place’ a fizzy funk number that inspired everything from fulfilled head-bobs to unadulterated foot-stomping across the room. From here, we journeyed with them through a medley of soundscapes - leading us to church on Sunday! As Jahrel raised his arms high in the air and delivered an undulating rock gospel, culminating with the scream “we can kick the f**kin’ door, right?” so forcefully, I almost did. This is a band that enjoys themselves so naturally, they compel us to do the same. Catch them when you can. The Basement Fruits – 31K As we ambled up Hockley, another trio caught my ear from 31K. From faaaar downstreet, you could hear their tight and funk driven sound. Made up of relentless guitar, meticulous bass, and faultless drums, we were drawn into their auditory fruit bowl. Once in there, they delighted us with the dichotomous sounds of angelic vocals alongside funk-grunge melodies. The audience were gladly introduced to their impressive musical stylings as they moved between genres without jarring. Truly impressive musicianship and ones to watch as their performances ripen. Dusty 4 Track – I’m Not From London stage #1 @ The Angel (Downstairs) As dusk settled on Dot to Dot, what better way to lead us into the evening than some good old classic blues folk? And in Nottingham, these guys just might be the holy trinity. They remained bestooled throughout, treating us to their boppable guitar with ease and expertise. Will delighted us with some lesser-spotted foot tambourine choreo alongside his classic blues guitar, as Russ coolly strummed his bass like an old friend. Then there was Ben who, having finessed his voice on most external instruments, decided to gift us with his singing voice, and we were so glad he did. The song was ‘Stay’, which happened, as we were captivated by the classic blues-folk sound met with Ben’s delicate, heartfelt vocals. By the time they reached the end, demanding we ‘put on yer dancin’ shoes’, everyone already had. Watch out for these guys as they continue to play their souls out around Nottingham. Our editor tells us their new release "Get Down" will be released through our favourite label (I'm Not From London Records) on the 28th June, catch them play The Nottingham Waterfront Festival at The Canalhouse on July 6th! Honourable Mention (from beyond “The Fringe” and beyond Notts) Cosmorat – Bodega (Upstairs) This post-punky-poppy-rocky three piece delivered something truly out of the ordinary. With the immediate, strong vocal stylings and exciting musical conjuring, we knew we were in for a treat… As they bowed, contorted, and twisted (literally) to their own musical creation, we were invited to play with them. They gave a childlike darkness that you couldn’t quite put your finger on and seem to have reinvented No Doubt for a contemporary, punkier audience. An energetic and exciting performance - I hope they bring Cosmorat back to our neck of the woods. As always, there was far too much to see for my eyes alone, but word has it that good times were had by all across the city. As a firm believer that music is therapy, it was wonderful to attend this yearly ‘group session’, delivered by sensational songbird therapists. I think I speak for all of us when I say much love and gratitude to all involved in organising and performing. Long live festivals and live music in these precarious times! Review by Beth Foster-Hunter

Paul Masvidal is in Nottingham and plays Billy Bootleggers this evening (Thursday 6th June) '🔮3-Starseed pins have been stashed away in secret, hidden in cryptic locations across downtown Nottingham. Find one and bring it to the door for a special treat—free entry or a Mythical Human Vessel t-shirt from our merch stand. The quest is on! 🌟' Check our social stories on Insta, TikTok and Facebook for clues…. Richard Grindon aka Grits interviewed him ahead of his gig! Personal Journey* . Paul, your musical career has spanned over three decades. How do you feel your personal journey has evolved since you first started playing guitar? My musical journey has evolved in ways I could never have imagined. The path has been like a jigsaw puzzle, with missing pieces emerging from the least expected places. One thing I’ve learned over the years is to surrender to outcomes and simply trust in the purity of the process without any specific goal in mind. The root of what drives the work is what keeps it buoyant and ever-evolving for me. . Early Influences . Can you share some of the key influences that shaped your early musical style and how they continue to impact your music today? My root inspirations were quite eclectic and not related to genre persay. From singer-songwriters, folk, and soft rock like Neil Young and Bread, to classic rock bands like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, to metal and punk bands like Metallica, Slayer, DRI, and Agnostic Front, as well as world music and fusion artists like Ravi Shankar and John McLaughlin. I also draw inspiration from vintage trip hop like Portishead, electronic artists like Nine Inch Nails, guitarists like Pat Metheny and Allan Holdsworth, classical composers like Bach and Debussy, and a wide range of modern pop, rock, and indie artists. . Shaping the Genre . *Many consider Cynic's debut album 'Focus' a groundbreaking record in the genre. What do you think it is about that album that resonated so deeply with fans and critics, and how are you incorporating some of these songs into your solo set? I don't know what caused it to catch on after a decade, other than the word spreading via the internet and through our peers in fellow bands who started reaching larger audiences and citing Cynic as an influence in the press. In the solo show, I'm incorporating material from the Re-Traced renditions of Traced in Air songs, which sound more chill, electronic, and atmospheric. Musical Innovation . Your music often blends elements from various genres and incorporates progressive and experimental aspects. How do you approach integrating these diverse influences into a cohesive sound? I trust my ears and my gut. I don’t think in terms of styles or reference points when writing music. The whole process is led by intuition, so it’s more about creating space within myself for the ideas to emerge, if that makes sense. . Lyrical Themes . Your lyrics often explore deep philosophical and existential themes. What inspires the lyrical content of your songs, and how do you see your role as a lyricist? Inspired by the natural world, the cosmos, sacred geometry, and the unknown spaces within and without. I connect with truth and transparency and more of an observers perspective in terms of meeting life with genuine curiosity and wonder. The lyrics are often written in a coded visual or poetic language so the interpretation is often left to the listener. I’m inspired by the naked raw truth of being alive and also the journey inward and how that mirrors the cosmos, otherworldly landscapes and how it all relates to a spiritual life. . Upcoming UK Tour . What can fans expect from your upcoming UK tour? This tour has a mixture of material from an array of your solo projects such as 'Mythical human vessel' and Aeon spoke. Are there any special surprises or new material you’re particularly excited to share? The show is theatrical, immersive, intimate, and dynamic, with ambient soundscapes cradling the acoustic guitar and vocals. Every element—from the songs to the lighting to the use of a mask and overall tone—contributes to creating a unique experience. The songs themselves are rooted in raw, intimate, and heartfelt places, establishing a deliberate contrast within the performance. Future Projects *Looking ahead, what are your future aspirations your solo projects and interactions with other artists? Are there any new directions or collaborations on the horizon that you’re excited about? * At the moment, there are dirge-like, amorphous alien lullabies floating around in my head, but I'm not sure how they will emerge! See Paul play Billy Bootleggers tonight at 8.30 pm. £10 on the door! '🔮3-Starseed pins have been stashed away in secret, hidden in cryptic locations across downtown Nottingham. Find one and bring it to the door for a special treat—free entry or a Mythical Human Vessel t-shirt from our merch stand. The quest is on! 🌟' Check our social stories on Insta, TikTok and Facebook for clues…. Listen to Paul Masvidal here!

DEAD STAR TALK, the innovative band known for their eclectic sound and groundbreaking approaches, is once again set to shake up the music industry with their second album, "Solid State Chemicals" This announcement comes on the heels of their successful debut, "Too Many Too Much," which was recorded during the lockdown and released in early 2022. The debut album's success catapulted the band to major festival stages like Rolling Stone Beach and Reeperbahn Festival, igniting their ambitions and setting the stage for their latest venture. "Solid State Chemicals" is a statement: Produced, recorded, mixed, and mastered by the Grammy-winning producer Flemming Rasmussen at Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, the album promises to be a masterpiece. Rasmussen, famed for his work with Metallica, brings his signature touch to DEAD STAR TALK’s rich, layered sound. "Working on 'Solid State Chemicals' really gave me a buzz," Rasmussen says. "It’s still very much DEAD STAR TALK, but it’s more layered and complex than the previous work we’ve done. I think this album will make a lot of people realize that there is a lot more to the band than the simple guitar rock nostalgia trip they sometimes get written off as." The album’s limited availability on streaming platforms is a bold and conscious decision by the band. "Solid State Chemicals" will be available for streaming only through the month of June 2024 before being taken down in July. Permanent copies will be available in limited quantities on vinyl and as NFTs, as well as through music download stores. This unique distribution strategy underscores DEAD STAR TALK’s stance against the exploitative practices of major streaming platforms. "We’re a small band so we don’t have a lot to lose," the band explains. "Spotify and all the other tech giants are treating culture and arts like trash, exploiting it for ridiculous financial gains, without giving anything back to the artists. Harshly put, we make songs as a charity for them to sell Google ads and iPhones. The decision to pull back the full album after one month seems quite natural: If you truly like the album, get behind DEAD STAR TALK by downloading it or buying a vinyl copy. It truly makes a difference, but no one is forcing you." DEAD STAR TALK’s distinctive sound is shaped by the diverse backgrounds of its members. Fronted by Christian Buhl and Günes Kocak, and supported by the rhythm section of Erik Jensen on bass guitar and Claus Nielsen on drums, the band brings a fusion of cultures and musical influences to their work. Their new album promises to explore new sonic territories while staying true to their melodic, polyphonic, guitar-driven roots. Tracks like "The Hurricane" feature unique psychedelic qualities and whistling solos, while "Good People?" offers a swaggering, shoegaze anthem. The reflective ballad "Jealous Dream" and the pop art-inspired title track "Solid State Chemicals" showcase the band’s lyrical depth and versatility. As DEAD STAR TALK prepares to unveil "Solid State Chemicals," fans are invited to join this revolutionary journey. Whether through streaming, downloading, or collecting limited edition vinyl and NFTs, each action supports the band's vision and artistic integrity, marking a significant moment in the evolution of modern music. For more information and updates, follow DEAD STAR TALK on their social media channels and visit their official website. FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE | X | YOUTUBE | MERCH

Before You Fall Asleep, the alter ego of the enigmatic Rudi, takes listeners on a journey with his latest release, 'DO YOU THINK OF ME? PT. 2.' This track is a deeply introspective exploration of longing and reflection, distinguished by its raw emotional depth and DIY production ethos. From the first haunting chords, 'DO YOU THINK OF ME? PT. 2' pulls you into its introspective vortex. The track’s minimalist instrumentation creates an intimate atmosphere where Rudi's vocals shine with raw vulnerability. His voice, carrying the weight of unspoken questions and lingering memories, is the emotional backbone of the song. Rudi’s lyricism is both poetic and piercing, weaving a narrative that feels intensely personal yet widely relatable. Each line seems to be a fragment of a larger story, inviting listeners to piece together their own interpretations and memories. The refrain serves as a poignant anchor, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the sting of separation and the hope of being remembered. The production of 'DO YOU THINK OF ME? PT. 2' is a testament to Rudi's commitment to authenticity: Recorded in his home studio, the track's unpolished edges and organic soundscapes give it a unique charm. This DIY approach not only enhances the song's emotional rawness but also aligns with the ethos of many artists who prioritise substance over slick production. Musically, the song is a tapestry of influences. Rudi masterfully blends elements of early 2000s emo with the modern nuances of the Soundcloud rap movement, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and innovative. The subtle beat, the ethereal guitar riffs, and the understated bass lines all work in harmony to support the emotive weight of the vocals. 'DO YOU THINK OF ME? PT. 2' is more than just a track; it is a heartfelt soliloquy. It solidifies Before You Fall Asleep's position as a distinctive voice in the alternative rap scene, one that refuses to shy away from vulnerability and emotional honesty. As Rudi continues to navigate his artistic journey, his music promises to be a beacon for those who find solace in the unvarnished truth of the human experience. This song is a compelling testament to the power of introspection and the enduring quest for connection.

Glasgow's The Rooks stand out with their debut single: 'Lay Me Down' promises to inject a dose of raw emotion and unfiltered truth into the indie rock scene The atmosphere crackles with anticipation as Glasgow's own The Rooks gear up to debut their inaugural single, 'Lay Me Down', at tonight's eagerly awaited launch party. Hosted at the iconic Van Winkle in Barrowland, the event promises an unforgettable night of music and celebration. Demand for tickets skyrocketed, selling out within a day of release. Due to overwhelming interest, additional tickets were swiftly added, only to disappear in 90 seconds. As the band prepares to take the stage, excitement mounts among fans, eager to witness The Rooks' electrifying performance and the unveiling of their much-anticipated single. This sold-out show marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for The Rooks, poised to captivate audiences with their raw talent and authentic sound... Lead vocalist Ross Gardiner elaborates, "Our music is a reflection of our lived experiences and the raw emotions that come with them. 'Lay Me Down' explores the complexities of relationships with a vulnerability that is both cathartic and empowering." With its blend of guitar-driven melodies, pulsating rhythms, and soul-stirring vocals, 'Lay Me Down' captures the essence of classic British rock while infusing it with a contemporary edge. Drawing inspiration from iconic acts like Stereophonics and The Strokes, The Rooks have crafted a sound that is both timeless and fresh, appealing to fans of all ages and musical tastes. FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE | X | YOUTUBE As they gear up for the release of 'Lay Me Down,' The Rooks are eager to share their music with the world. Bassist Kieran Luddy reflects, "We've poured our hearts and souls into this music, and we can't wait for listeners to experience it for themselves. 'Lay Me Down' is just the beginning of what we have in store." With their debut single poised to make waves, The Rooks are ready to take the music world by storm. Keep an eye out for 'Lay Me Down' on May 5th, 2024—it's sure to be a game-changer for this talented group of musicians. “The Rooks left the stage drenched in the sweat of a great night under the lights” - Discovery Music Scotland [Live Review] Photo Credit: Ellen Quinn

Orbital have reissued their iconic 1991 debut album, known as ‘The Green Album’, via London Records. 33 years after its initial release, and over 10 years since it was last pressed on vinyl, the remastered ‘Green Album’ is still wowing critics, and undoubtedly anyone who's ever listened to this album! Personally, for me, it will be like i'm reliving some of the best moments of my teenage years listening to the albums again. Both of my big brothers are avid fans of these guys, and because of that, I had the chance to grow up on their music! I've danced many a night away to Orbital and had the most beautiful experience seeing them perform at The Big Chill festival playing their stand alone Belfast track. These guys will never go out of fashion and will certainly stay in our hearts forever! I cannot wait too see them play their iconic tracks and feel alive once again! Nottingham Heads can see Orbital Live this Sunday at Rock City, check out their UK dates below. ORBITAL – THE GREEN + BROWN ALBUM – LIVE – 2024 UK Dates April 24 Exeter, The Great Hall April 25 Southampton, O2 Southampton Guildhall April 26 Birmingham, O2 Institute Birmingham April 27 London, Troxy April 28 Nottingham, Rock City May 2 Bristol, Bristol Beacon May 3 Glasgow, The Barrowland Ballroom May 4 Manchester, O2 Victoria Warehouse May 5 Dublin, Vicar Street May 23 -26 Bearded Theory Festival June 26 – 30 Glastonbury Festival, The Park Stage July 25 – 28 Latitude Festival Sept 14 Dreamland Margate – co-headline with Leftfield Get your tickets from https://www.orbitalofficial.com/live/ Words by Sophie Alexandra

Conan Gig @ rough trade March 20th, 2024 There was an eerie calm feeling as I entered Rough Trade; I was greeted by a dedicated and well-seasoned crowd, patiently waiting for the grind sludge onslaught to begin. I went to this gig alone to guarantee my full attention with no distractions. I wanted to fully immerse myself within my surroundings and feel everything that was going to happen around me. I spoke to all the bands billed that night and everyone was so warm and welcoming - it was a pleasure talking to each of you and want to thank you all for your time! The first band to play was a 5-piece called Burial Rot. The heavy guitar riffs and meaty sounding bass rolled through which felt like thunder and bolts of lighting, every time the cymbals crashed, and the kick drum shattered! Personally, the vocalist stole the show, bellowing out his lyrics which came straight from within his core. In short this was a HEAVY set which transformed the initial calm into a storm. Swamp Coffin followed with the filthiest sludge set! This 3-piece hails from Rotherham and were the highlight of the show for me. I felt like I was being dragged through mud when listening to this lot. The machine gun shots from the drummer coupled with the heavy bass lines made my ribs vibrate from within. They have a new release due to hit the airwaves around Autumn this year and I can only imagine it will be a total assault on the senses! I cannot wait for this! Their songs on the upcoming release are “Know you’re worthless” and “This was always going to end in war” ....Keep those ears to the ground folks. The final support act was a band called Wallowing and they were an unexpected treat! These guys were an interesting bunch of characters and came on stage in a mist of black and green fog all dressed in beekeeper outfits. Their sounds engulfed the whole venue and almost made the room come to a complete standstill. It felt chaotic with an utter sense of dread, certainly, a vibe which everyone appeared to share. I can see these guys certainly becoming BIG! Last but no means least Conan, the headliner of the event. The band from Liverpool has been on the scene since 2006. I had a brief chat with vocalist, Jon, who spoke of their latest release “DIY series, issue 1”. This is a musical triumph, from start to finish, with a beastly Fudge Tunnel cover called “Hate Song.” I excitedly asked Jon a few questions, one being which bands had influenced them over the years. Jon mentioned a few names, but the main ones were Somatics, Black Cobra and of course Fudge Tunnel. I also asked what he had been listening to of late. Surprisingly, he described bumping along to some ‘old’ techno! This was personally very well received as I am also a techno connoisseur so i had to give him some suggestions to check out. All in all, this is the best gig of 2024 I have had the opportunity to attend and write about and I am excited for what else is waiting for me soon…. Words by Sophie Alexandra For interview or live/release review requests or if you are interested in joining our writers team please email Info@imnotfromlondon.com

In the vast expanse of modern music, there exists a realm where boundaries blur, genres intertwine, and creativity knows no limits... FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE At the forefront of this sonic expedition stands The Kiss That Took A Trip, a musical project led by the enigmatic M.D. Trello. With the release of their latest single, "Skull and Crossbones," and its accompanying album, "Victims of Avantgarde," The Kiss That Took A Trip invites listeners on a journey of introspection, exploration, and artistic revelation. "Skull and Crossbones," the lead single from the album, serves as a beacon of paradoxical optimism amidst a sea of uncertainty. From its anthemic choruses to its propulsive energy, the track resonates with a sense of urgency and resilience. Yet, beneath its surface lies a layer of irony, a reminder of the complexities of the human experience. Through dynamic instrumentation and emotive vocals, "Skull and Crossbones" captivates from start to finish, leaving an indelible mark on the listener's soul. As the gateway to "Victims of Avantgarde," "Skull and Crossbones" sets the stage for a sonic odyssey unlike any other. The album unfolds like a tapestry of sound, each track a testament to The Kiss That Took A Trip's boundless creativity and innovation. From the ethereal landscapes of "Echoes of Eternity" to the frenetic energy of "Fractured Dreams," "Victims of Avantgarde" explores a myriad of musical territories with finesse and flair. What sets The Kiss That Took A Trip apart is their unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and authenticity. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of influences, including post-rock, ambient, and experimental music, the project crafts a sound that is both familiar and wholly original. With "Skull and Crossbones" and "Victims of Avantgarde," The Kiss That Took A Trip solidifies its place as a trailblazer in the ever-evolving landscape of music, challenging listeners to expand their sonic horizons and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

1. Can you give us a bit on what's been happening with INFL? 1. We are about to record an EP with INFL at the bus depot studio in a couple of weeks, which we are totally stoked for. We will play all four songs from this at the JT Soar gig. The tracks are: ‘And Another Thing’, ‘Missing U’, ‘Mickey Mickey Mouse Mouse’, and ,’Alright Harry?’ 2. Have you ever played at JT Soars before? If so, what can someone who has never been to the venue expect? 2. We’ve not played at JT Soars before but have seen quite a number of gigs there over the years. It’s a cool little venue, a really intimate space - sometimes to the point where you can’t tell who’s the band and who’s the audience…a great venue where you are guaranteed a great night and take your own beer…absolutely love it. 3. Leading on from the previous question, What can someone who has never seen you live or heard your music to expect? 3. If you’ve not seen us play before, expect a melting pot brimming with art rock, punk, ska and psyche with loads of other tasty flavours stirred into the mix. It’s definitely a performance: Newton’s laws of energy meets Twiglets 4. Have you seen any of the other bands that are performing tonight live? If so, what was that like? 4. Can’t wait to see Ponyland as haven’t seen them before…they sound ace online. Dim Bulbs are fucking excellent, strong durgy sounds, summoning demons from the earths core with an energised and charismatic front man. love them. 5.Given the recent closures of local venues, what do you think can be done to support them to prevent this from becoming the norm? 5.You can’t stop the music, nobody can stop the music… tshirts - buy drinks in venues, buy tickets for local gigs. Use em or lose em! 6. With the cuts of cultural funding for Nottingham how have you found it as an artist to adapt and how have you dealt with this? 6. It’s a story of measures and counter measures. Art of all kinds finds it’s fix despite the restrictions - it’s way of generating a voice within restrictions. Live music is the most accessible art form for most people, partly because of its elemental (and popular) nature, but also because of its ability to fuel resistance. Live music finds ways of being, irrespective of limitations, because it is part of the soul of a society. That said, when a society refuses, or is unable, to fund the means of cultural production, it makes it exceptionally hard on the artists and cultural producers who make it all happen. If the powerful within a society refuse to fund its art, they’ve forgotten what their society is. Follow Moonbullet here, see them tonight play alongside Ponyland and Dim Bulbs on Thursday 11th April. -Tickets £10 otd, BYOB - LP out this summer via I'm Not From London Records- Watch this space!

1. Straight up, please tell us about these animal masks. How did this come about and what is the context behind this wild menagerie? The masks are more about putting ourselves and the audience into a charged situation. When you put on a mask and hit the stage you have the freedom to become something different than just a person in a band, to access a different energy in yourself and amp that up. It’s like a ritual, the kind of thing humans have been doing all through history; we put the masks on and get the music going and it makes the whole room into a magic space where everybody can tap into that power together. 2. When did you start playing together and how did you meet each other? Ponyland came about in 2017, when me and Frankie were living with a bunch of creative people in a forest off grid. There were always projects on the go and things being built, and we would throw some big parties. We made a band to play at those and also started a parody folk band that did Beyonce banjo covers! The Ponyland idea stuck, and the DIY spirit of that time hopefully comes through in our live shows still. 3. What are the main musical influences across the band? What do you guys listen to on the road? System of a Down, Lightning Bolt, Crash Worship, Animal Collective, Hardcore, Psych, Jazz, Godzilla’s theme tune, Pop-Punk and Doom Metal 4. Your first record Mora Mora came out in 2019. I've been listening to it a lot recently, it's brilliant and I'm really looking forward to Hare Brains. What sort of differences and treats can we expect from this new release five years on? That first record definitely sounds like a band trying to pull together a lot of different ideas to make something new, like somebody in a post-apocalyptic movie making a car out of junk. It was great, and we love and still play those songs, but this new record is leaner, tighter, and harder. We’re stripping down the sound into it’s pure essence; loud, riffy, strange and colourful. Maybe now this person has ditched their car and found a speedboat that glides through lakes of toxic waste. 5. Two drummers then. How does this work logistically? How did this come about and what sort of episodes has this brought on? Any nightmare load ins that you can recall? We love load ins it keeps us fit and healthy! We have always had two drummers set up at the front of the stage or on the floor as close to the audience as possible. It has always just felt like it should have more drums, we once did a gig with three drummers in a small market town called Penrith, it went off!! 6. I first came across you guys playing a dream gig with Bethlehem Casuals and Ask My Bull in Manchester a few years ago. You must be excited about playing with some cool bands on the road again, who are you keen to see? Yeah we are looking forward to checking out all the support bands, so far they have all been sick. Tiva in Kendal, Psychic Lemon in Chelmsford, Monet in Bristol and Fukashima Dolphin in Brighton. 7. What do you enjoy about the Newcastle scene most, favourite bands and venues? Newcastle has a great noise scene with lots of mint bands playing at the Lubber fiend, Star and Shadow and Cobalt, our favourite North East band is Obviously Yes Grasshopper. HA! 8. Anything else you'd like to talk about or plug? Yes Grasshopper has a vinyl out on Inverted Grim Mill Recordings go check it out! https://invertedgrim-millrecordings.bandcamp.com/album/ghost-dog- I'm Not From London and Eelshock will pe putting Ponyland on this Thursday at JT Soar, Moonnbullet and DimBulbs will be supporting- come see em (and please share this article if you liked it) Interview conducted by Al Judkins Join and share the FB here! https://www.facebook.com/events/943333533906055/ £10 advance, £12 on the door - advance tickets here!

At just 22 years old, Lia Elise has already proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Her latest single, 'I Will Sing', serves as a testament to her talent and vision, offering listeners a soul-stirring anthem of hope and resilience. A PROJECT WITH RADA: 'I Will Sing' is the latest release from RADA Unearthed, the music arm of the humanitarian organisation dedicated to spreading messages of love, inspiration, and choice through music, with royalties supporting community projects for positive impact. Lia Elise's 'I Will Sing' is more than just a song; it's a beacon of hope in a world that often feels dark and uncertain. Through her music, Lia reminds us that no matter how difficult life may seem, there is always a reason to sing. And with each note of 'I Will Sing', she invites us to join her on a journey of resilience, strength, and unwavering hope. With a voice that is equal parts powerful and delicate, she effortlessly conveys the song's message of perseverance in the face of adversity. As the track unfolds, Lia's storytelling prowess shines through, painting a vivid picture of a journey from darkness to light. One of the most remarkable aspects of 'I Will Sing' is its universal appeal. While rooted in Lia's own experiences, the song's message resonates with listeners from all walks of life. Whether facing personal struggles or simply seeking solace in difficult times, 'I Will Sing' offers a glimmer of hope and a reminder that better days are ahead. Musically, 'I Will Sing' is a tour de force of emotion and artistry. The track's production is polished yet retains an organic feel, allowing Lia's vocals to take centre stage: From the stirring piano accompaniment to the sweeping orchestration, every element of the song is carefully crafted to evoke an emotional response in the listener. As Lia Elise continues to carve her path in the music industry, 'I Will Sing' stands as a shining example of her talent and dedication. With its powerful message and breathtaking musicality, the track is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. RADA Unearthed Website | RADA Website LIA ELISE: FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE | X | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY