Under Blue Skies

"All That Jazz"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 04:07:00 +0000

Hi,

Time to get back again and it's a manic Monday so im gonna catch some things up like as i need some light to shine on me... Yesterday was a bit busy weekend as i was with my friend waking hours up and talking about the recent CD sale happening and the current great new & upcoming releases ( which im gonna post in the coming days! ) while we we're having dinner somewhere in an overpopulated mall in Quezon City ( so many people this season isn't it?! ). I was very full when we parted ways and it was my first time eating a FULL hainanese white chicken meal! Im so full packed!!! But thanks anyway mate...

I wake up at 11:30 AM earlier and had the chance to listen to this swirly/indierock group who called themselves The Permanent Smilers. I first heard them back in July this year when Richard from the band emailed me and was very kind to send me some of their music including their newly released LP titled "Jazz Liberties". Heavily influenced by post punk band The Stranglers and mix it with jazz singers with a hint of classical music, The band plays music that recalls the heydays of indierock groups like Sugar and Pixies with Richard's voice not so distant far with Francis Black and Bob Mould in song's "Temporary" and "Curfew Of The Sun" with crunchy guitar lines washing along the lines.

The band is composed of Richard Lemongrower ( acoustic/electric guitar/keys/mandolin/oil drum/spade/percussion ), Johnny Cole ( bass guitar ) and Pete Fraser ( drums ). Richard formed the band after his previous band, The Lemongrowers ( who released 2 LP's in the mid 90's, "Segments" and "The Ultimate Mutation" respectively. ) folded in the late 90's. Influenced by New Wave and Ska in the 80's along with the Britpop cockiness of the 90's which he later mix up when he formed The Permanent Smilers. Their debut LP "Sit Down And Smile" was released last year on their own Citric Sounds label. It includes the shimmering 60's pop of "Without You" and the splattering powerpop of "My Beautiful You". A band to adored for if you loved indierock with a touch of true DIY ethic and class of their own.

Feel free to listen to them in their Myspace or Buy their records Here

"You'll Never Know"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 20:29:00 +0000

Hi,

How's anyone? How's the music world revolving lately? Im a bit wee but im still around and STILL listening! Gosh! It's been so long since i write and thanks to Tom for asking me in Facebook if my blog is still alive and kicking and now i just wake up from a dream, A long lost dream... A happy feeling specially in this part of the year, a few days before Christmas falls and a mere month to welcome the coming year. To start things up, Which i usually do in rounding things off and there's so much great music that had been part of us this year but i just stumble on and it was great, great music... So lovely i very much adorn it...

Just a few days when i was browsing the web ( Myspace to be exact ) i discovered a lovely fellow who plays music reminiscent of The Hit Parade on a mary go round riding along with 80's popsters Prefab Sprout. Im talking about Kevin McGrother, a one man band who played happy, fun and jangly music reminiscent of classic 80's guitarpop. Recalling the days of great p!o!p! hits and the much loved indiepop music, Kevin started making music in the early 90's with Just Like Alice and after that a band named Tickety Boo, which released an EP but was laid off because of a court case.

The year 2008 was a really virtual change and ten years on, Kevin and co. strut their guitars and instruments to release the wonderful "Living In An Enid Blyton World", A collection of his past 10 years in recording and what a blast from the past!!! The first time i've heard the single "You'll Never Know" i was totally happy that music like this has been made and i just wanna smile, smile and smile while i was walking the laneways of our neighbourhood. With the whispering intro through the chimey piano chorus line, I feel like i was a child again, no worries to think about and when i heard the vocals i was reminded how Julian Henry made great music with The Hit Parade.

The title track show's a more janglier track in the vein of C86 ala Friends ( with matching horns, handclapps ), The Smiths, The Housemartins and many janglepop bands. "The Same Old Story" truly capture the Sarah Records sound as it also draws the closest comparison to The Hit Parade's "In Gunnersbury Park" with the tilting acoustic guitar lines mixing along with the beautiful lovelorn vocals of Mary Joyce followed by Kevin. A lovely record, beautiful pop melodies made by a genius.

You can visit his Myspace page and feel free to buy his beautiful album. A must have!!!

"Quiet Hearts For A Quiet Start"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Thu, 08 May 2008 21:42:00 +0000

Hello,

I'm gonna be rushing up to things as there are a lot of catching up to do but first let me get on to a bit of rounding up new releases and upcoming ones too...It was truly a cracking dawn when my speaker's blown to the sound of dreamy atmospheric's of Moscow Olympics new release "Cut The World" out now on Lavender label. After the release of their astonishing single debut "Still" on Fraction Disc comes this new mini-LP. Whew! Was it Keith fronting The Radio Dept. with Peter Hook on their bassline? This was a wonderful release with the new and very gazey "Ocean Sign" on it, Im really throwing myself offshore ( not to the sea! ) but through a waves of glittery guitar soundscapes. This really put our country on the map.

Buy the CD Here or Direct from Lavender

Another lovely release was from the melancholy yet very catchy lovelorn kids from Richmond, CA. "Half-Steps Towards Bright Skies" was Apple Orchard's debut release and also their first on their fledging label, Haymarket Recordings. This marks the heavy output made by Ryan & Dale which took the LP 2 year's to be made but now has been widely released to critical acclaim. This includes new songs but still carrying that same sound mix only to broader horizons which can be heard on trace on "Unfazed", "The Cloud Fleets" and an old favorite "Midnight Stars And Kisses". Hearing them now is like hearing Trembling Blue Stars riding on a winter train, This is the start i guess and we're waiting for more! Can't wait for that compy on Haymarket and the Sonnet LVIII LP or a Golden Teardrops EP or finally a Sodajerk LP release but it will see the light of the day...Keep your fingers crossed.

Buy the CD Here or visit Apple Crumble ( Japan )

Now we go to upcoming and new bands that set up the tone of Filipino music nowadays, Let's start with The Fantasy Lights. Another melancholy yet very dreamy outfit armed with heavy synthesizers and organic laptop's, Patryk and co. have just released an EP on the beloved Cloudberry label. Check them out if you'd loved the music of Brighter, Trembling Blue Stars and many Sarah Records acts.

Another lovely act that should be heard by the globe was the charming sister's Ria & Chary Silva, They composed the lo-fi, acoustic outfit The Wentletraps. Formed by the loved of music and was not quite an idea to be a live band but more of a studio project but at last these guys made it sure that their music was to be heard, Hearing them remind me so much of The Softies and Rose Merlberg ( and her other outfits as well ). I loved their cover of The Radio Dept. song titled "Bus" and The Smiths "This Charming Man". Im sure there will be more to follow...

As the once heralded guitarpop outfit had parted ways last year, A new crop of talented band emerged from the ashes of that group. Im talking about The Camerawalls. It was spearheaded by the former singer/guitarist of Orange & Lemons Clem Castro. It was a joy hearing their demo "Markers Of Beautiful Memories" on their Myspace page and i was delighted to hear that they are up to a new LP this year. The band which composed of Clem ( guitars/vox ), Law Santiago ( bass ) and Ian Sarabia ( drums ). Hearing them puts me in nostalgia when i first heard OnL back in 2003, This one was great! A far cry from their mainstream counterparts! A hint of Trash Can Sinatras, The Housemartins and a dose of Mozzer on this fledging group. I hope they sustain that musical feeling... A true marker of beautiful memories.

That's the first part of this round up and i'm off to my friend's place to get some drinks and keep an eye soon to a lot more of great music...

"Feel The Beat And Do It Anyway"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Wed, 07 May 2008 20:15:00 +0000

Hello,

How are the popkids and fans feeling nowadays? It's been close to a year since i last wrote an article but it's kinda refreshing to be back!!! Thanks to the wonderful world of music and a lot of great new bands to hear on in with new releases to catch on their backs...I just woke up after a drinking spree last night with the Ortega boys and it was lovely to see a brand new day passing by with the sounds of electro-tinged pop from the beautiful London based band, Sparky's Magic Piano.

The band which is comprised of Marion Turnbull ( vocals ) and Oliver Bartlett ( guitar/synths/effects ) plays music which may bring to mind the likes of St. Etienne, Freezepop, Stereolab and Club 8 on their electronic mode. They have just released their LP late last year titled "Feel The Beat And Do It Anyway" on the Melody Factory label which features songs filled by love layered by beautifully crafted electronic music, Songs such as "Something Somewhere", "You Like Her" really mend my ears and my favorite track "Like Falling In Love". This is pure, crisp indiep!o!p! music you must chilled on! Cloudberry Records have also released an EP which is also my personal fave none other than "Falling In Love". They have been playing around the UK since last year and im sure there is a lot more coming in from them, I can't wait and surely will feel that beat and i'm really doing it anyway!!!

Buy the CD Here or Direct from Them

"From DNA To Yesterday"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 08:03:00 +0000

Hello,

Im back on track as i just got home from a rainy and dull ride from Cavite and i feel a little weary and lovesick! ( or the feeling is really there? ) maybe due to slight changes of weather...Whew! I just changed my clothes and put this ready to be heard disc of mine and gosh, Is it them? I find this long lost band a gem that really needs to be heard as they play soft jangly guitarpop reminiscent of those past indie stalwarts like The Sundays, The Band Of Holy Joy, April Showers and The Popinjays or any female fronted popgroup you had in mind that point's into that musical direction! The band im talking about is No Flags Etc..

Formed in Swansea, South Wales in 1986. The band played music that was meant to be pure pop, jangly and ironic with class! Having the momentum they are long been longing for, They quickly released their first single titled "Wonderful" on "12 inch format, Indeed it lives up to it's name as it capitalizes them to a wider broad. The chance of releasing a debut LP was already on their hands ( titled "Voila Godot" ) but sadly it was shelved... Tragedy seems to struck them when founding member Martyn died and things got lose out of hand. But in 1996, Things got well again with a contract with Canadian label Hi-Rise landing on them but again it didn't work that well because of another reason. But luck was really on their way as the great Firestation Records of Germany included one of their earliest song "Rubble" ( and a rare one too! ) on their great series , The Sound Of Leamington Spa Volume 5 in 2004 which attracts unknown fans across the globe.

Having several line-up changes over the past year's, Only Rob Thomas ( bass ) and Wayne Hughes ( guitars ) remain on the original core of the Flags lineup. They are now joined by long time singer Sian Wilson ( who already are with them through their early years ), Paul Boorman ( guitars ), John Corbett ( drums ) and finally their tech who sometimes also play with them, Niall Feldman. Now the band is nowhere to be cut again from releasing their great music to fans across the globe as they just released their full length ( of old & new recordings ) titled from "From DNA To Yesterday" which was co-released by the band with Apple Crumble Records of Japan. It includes early favourites "Don't Bring Me Back", "Wonderful" and my fave "You Skin Me Smaller" ( this one is gorgeous! ). Im looking for more as the band is setting out new songs to be recorded and released soon! You can hear the band's music snippet's Here

Check out the interview with the band's Sian Wilson and the band's new recording session's Here

Buy their releases Here or direct from Apple Crumble

Thanks to Rob Thomas for the help and kindness

"Safe"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 00:05:00 +0000

Hello,

It's been a while and gotta shake that giggling summer feeling that i feel...Thanks to that great news that this band has already gotten up the webspace that i long been waiting for their astonishing sound and musical direction, Im talking about the mighty Moscow Olympics. I just get the desire back into writing when i heard their new songs they uploaded on their Myspace. They just keep getting better and better whenever i see them play live or hear their demos as each time it was different just like harmonies waving around my head!.

The band ( originally known as The Lubitels but had to dropped the name when one of their member leave & in respect to the former ) which play music that recall those dancings days mix with a beatiful wash of noise that can be aligned with the likes of Blueboy in their "Popkiss" and "Unisex" days, New Order with Bobby Wratten on their lead and The Wake on their MBV mode. Consist of Aj Domingo ( vocals/guitars ) , who used to be a former Candyaudioline, Soft Pillow Kisses, Colour Contest member and also currently a member of soul specialists, Soul Connection. Richard Olaguera ( guitars ) also a former Colour Contest and used to be with Fingernail Cocktail and now leads Soul Connection, Jojo Sarmiento ( keyboards ) who is a member of Dorian Of Juniper Bells, The Violet Hour, She Came To Stay and plays now in the monicker of Joaquin Esquivel, Dino Amparo ( drums ) another former Candyaudioline and lastly the girl with the bassline in her side, Melanie Valera ( bass ).No wonder Peter Hahndorf voted them as one of the best bands not residing in the UK or US on his recent trip in Manila and on the TweeNet Poll.

They are currently mixing some new songs & I can't wait to hear for more as prior to what i heard on their new tunes like the hypnotic yet chillbending track "Safe" ( which is my favourite now! ) which reminds me of Blueboy's "Imipramine" on their shorelike guitar waves! We want more & I hope the world is listening for this beautiful supergroup...Surely they will!.

Pay them a visit Here

"Pop Goes The World"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 11:42:00 +0000

Hello,

How are you guys? It's Summertime!!! And it has been a long time and i'm back on the current mood to write some new music and event's that happened to me in the past year and month's...Wow! I miss this but hey don't think that i also stop listening for the past months as it was a no-no specially when i gotten hold of listening to this band one hot afternoon, So cloudy day that it perfectly fit to what im listening at that moment.How come you wouldn't loved this new but great band from Gothenburg, Sweden who called themselves The Electric Pop Group.

The band was formed by accident (or by nature of love?) when Martin Aamot (guitar/drum programming/vocals) met Linnéa (keyboards) back in May 2003.The meeting spark what will be the core of the very lovely song "Popgirly" (I really loved this song...It came from the heart!) with it's dreamy guitar lines mix with the JAMC'ish drumming which Martin wrote for Linnéa.The idea of forming a band soon followed as Martin's brother, Erik Aamot (guitar/vocals) also came aboard.In fall of 2006 the band has grown into a five-piece unit as they were joined by Gustaf Murman (guitar) and Jimmi Thunholm (bass guitar) which typified their crowning sound of heartache and gorgeous melodies.It's like The Field Mice was reincarnated along with the bunch of Sarah Records bands like Another Sunny Day or The Hit Parade, They played songs that echoes those bands like they upstart the revolution of twee 15 0r 20 year's ago.

The debut self-titled LP was released December of last year to critical acclaim to the loyal indiepop followers earning them one of the bands to look up to as they jangle our cold heart's with brimming glitter of soft tunes which speak slowly to your ears.Just as the band was so busy rehearsing and making new tunes, Linnéa opted to leave the band just this month due to reason of lack of time practising with the band...A bit sad but life must go on.They are schedule to play this year's Indie Tracks Festival on July with the likes of The Orchids, The Hermit Crabs and many more...

Let's keep hoping there's more from them as we listen to their heartwarming tunes along the way, Here are a couple:

The Electric Pop Group - "Popgirly"

The Electric Pop Group - "She's Playing With Your Heart"

There's more Here

Buy the album direct Here or if you're in Sweden you can buy it Here

"You're My September"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Wed, 27 Sep 2006 12:31:00 +0000

Hello,

It's been raining...At least for now i do hope as things go bright it seems...I woke up late due to back pains i sustained listening to this group which remind me of a minty afternoon,dreaming up the perfect P!O!P!.It was fantastic which is what i say to this much missed band called The Fantasy Lights.

Formed in 2000 in a small bedroom by concept of Patrik Durmiendo (keyboards/guitars/voice)which give birth to the soothing and tearful music by The Fantasy Lights.It reminds me of The Field Mice,Trembling Blue Stars,Harper Lee,Silver Screen and a bit of Sarah Records.He has released & contributed to many compilations including "Mutual Admiration Society" (Definition Records 2001),"Hit Music Only - A Heavenly Pop Hits Compilation" (Heavenly Pop Hits 2002),"We Are Not Alone:Songs For The Lo-Fi Generation Vol. 6" (Best Kept Secret 2002) and "Dashboard Teddy Version 1.0" (Dorothy Records 2003).Also he played gigs around 2001 up to 2002 with the help of Chax and Lawrence in live sets.Afterwhich a hiatus followed...

But not for long as 2006 see's the return into new fold as Patrik recorded new songs which gives life to music fans who missed his lovelorn music (including me).He started to play live again (on the last Girlboy gig which sadly i missed his set) and recorded a new lovely song titled "Cinema At Seven" (my fave nowadays!) and im looking for more which i think will follow in the coming month's.

You can hear/download more of The Fantasy Lights music on their Myspace Page

"I Killed A Party"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Mon, 25 Sep 2006 06:35:00 +0000

Hello,

How's everyone?It's been a while now and i haved miss so many things...Im glad to be back and what a way to start as i just got in from a gig last night and it was a bash!The event was called "I Killed A Party" which was actually the 5th installment of the burgeoning Girlboy series.It was 11:25 PM already when i got in the very cool place amidst from the old concept of a bar and this one was like throwing a party for all combined with great music and old faces and some new ones gathered when i came in just in time for the set of the chiming Soul Connection (i have missed The Fantasy Lights set which was staggering according to my friend Sherwin which includes a cover of The Field Mice song "Willow" and the swinging Balloon Derby who popped the crowd out!).

Soul Connection brought down some materials of their own which reminisce the good ol sounds of 60's soul accompanied with Pancho's chimy keyboards.The band even do a cover of a Small Faces song which the title escape me to the delight of the crowd.Noise harbingers TV Guide soon followed which feels like it was early 90's again with their shimmering guitar lines coming out of Baron's guitar effects.It was like Yo La Tengo or Versus whenever i hear this band plays,Indierock or shoegaze,put them on!Dreamy!

Now it's time for quiet approval,a time to hear some fresh tunes from the widely missed Jojo Sarmiento (Dorian Of Juniper Bells/She Came To Stay/Moscow Olympics) who played along with his new monicker Joaquin Esquivel.Armed with a guitar & his witty lyrics,The crowd gathered around him listening to his songs like it was a storytelling.The highlight of his set was when he covered a Serge Gainsbourg song which receives an applause from the crowd including a smiling Peter Hahndorf which serves as a guest.

After Jojo's set came Aurora Borealis.With it's pummeling noise showered in all it's shoegaze glory,The band jettisoned quickly to their own brand of noisemaking then afterwards i was shock when they covered a familiar tune which bop to my head...That was a Candyaudioline song i whispered!Titled "Flaming Walls" the band do quite well giving the song it's own purity.Gaze on!

I go out to get some beer when i chanced upon Peter & we had a little chit chat about some new indiepop and old UK bands,travelling around the world,new releases from his label Clarendon Records and some Filipino tunes which he download on his Ipod which has a lot of Belle & Sebastian songs on it.We got back in time for the post punk aesthetics of Through The Lens.They started off with their instrumental tune with a tribal sound which reminds me of Factory label bands like Kalima & The Durutti Column.On to their set they played their brand of ESGsque tunes accompanied by the dancing crowd.

Then came the mighty Moscow Olympics headed by a superb line-up and the fact that these guys are vastly becoming finest everytime i see them play!Very lovely guitar lines & melodies...I really loved "Second Trace",What more can i say?The crowd began to dance as one on these part as even Peter Hahndorf raises his cheerful hand on this band.

It was a night full of worth and great music,How'd i'd wish it was always like this but thanks it was done in a tremendous preparation and It was time for my friend Sherwin to part companies as im still going to Malate for a meeting & my other friends are already having an affair with their daydreams and im looking forward in seeing everyone on the next Girlboy gig...It's a must!

Thanks to Sherwin for the pics. Thank you mate!

"Her Kindercrush"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Sun, 30 Apr 2006 14:00:00 +0000

Hello,

It's the last day of the month & waaahhh!!!How quickly time passes by...Tomorrow is holiday and the 1st day of the coming month is gonna be a bit busy for some political rallies set to take in...Have to find some alternate routes...

It's a bit HOT nowadays but thanks to some cool music to lighten up the fiery mood & I've miss this band for it has the music that properly fit in this kind of weather,Setting up half-smiles and frowns the 1st time i've heard them one afternoon,It was early 2004 when i was attending my summer class...Walking along the bristle lanes of Intramuros up to the time i got home humming the melodies of "Dorothy" singing along with it's "do rot do roo" chorus lines...I have always loved Carnival Park.

Formed in the nothern city of Valenzuela,Philippines in 1999 armed with their pop antics,The 1st line-up is composed of Khristian Emas (guitars),Evan Gallo (guitars,vocals),Madz Dilabakun (drums) & Ryan Marquez (see:Apple Orchard/Sodajerk/The Haircuts/Dorian Of Juniper Bells) (bass),Cez Silva (vocals) & Mike Dy (Toy Keyboard) who would later launch the Dorothy label.Listening to them is like dipping ice cream on a hot summer afternoon without even melting it,The music soothes along with it's toy keyboard roaring along the lines of pop perfection reminding of the music of Moving Pictures,Club 8,Shoestrings,800 Cherries and any Twee that comes to your Twee mind.

They have released a CD-R EP titled "Her Kindercrush" on Shelflife Records in 2001 which brought attention not only in the local community but also outside the world.They also released a split CD-EP with Sodajerk titled "That Happy Glow" on Dorothy Records in 2002.Just when things are shaping up the 2nd line-up changed came as soon as the band is already circulating the local indie community back in 2002,Ryan left for the US as a new voice came on board in the form of Chai Enriquez (vocals/guitars) which is a hands down choice for the band.They are also included in "Dashboard Teddy Version 1.0" released by Dorothy Records in 2003 contributing a cool cover of "Portland,Oregon" by The Cat's Miaow but it was not ending there as they also done a very pretty cover of The Autocollants song "Candy Coated Kisses" which was on the "You're Still Young At Heart" compilation also released by Shelflife Records in 2003.

Still tensions on the band continue but it didn't stop them producing great song after another as a proof of this was they became part of the fine compilation titled "Guitar Sketch" released internationally by Quince Records of Japan which featured other great bands.An even growing tension resulted on Mike forcing himself out of the band & He was replaced by Joy to play the keyboards...The last time i've seen the band was @ the Girlboy Gig happened on Big Sky Mind a couple of years ago...I've miss them...from the time i've met Mike & Chai on LRT Blumentritt Station back in early 2004,Ryan on a Buzznite one Saturday night in 2004 up to seeing the whole gang one Girlboy gig also that same year...When can i hum those lines again...?

Feel free to visit their Myspace to hear/download some of their wonderful miss tunes!!!

You can also view a couple of their live videos Here

Buy their releases Here

"I Don't See You As A Dead Blog"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Thu, 27 Apr 2006 01:50:00 +0000

Hello,

It's been a while since i posted & Glad to be back as im a bit busy on life lately but it's fun & lovely!Sorry for the e-mails i responded a bit late but you've got all the answers and It's a bit sunny and hot but thanks for the great news that arrived in my ears in this month,A bit of sunshine P!O!P!.First was a brand new release from lovelorn duo,The Haircuts (who i featured Here) which marked their LP debut titled "Sorrow Is The Way To Love" on Yellow Mica Recordings.It features 10 new songs recorded last year and you can buy the CD direct from Yellow Mica Recordings or if you are in the US,It is now distributed by Asaurus Records.Lovey dovey!

Now back on tip top shape but lately i've been having a hard time listening on most stuff that is new because time is not on my side but whenever im home i still manage to bring on some tunes to bop on my head...Just like the past days,Im very hook on this spunky yet bubbly girl group from Glasgow,Scotland called Tibi Lubin.

Formed by Katie Stewart (vocals/guitar) in 2002.Several line-up changes followed which at present was composed of Anji-Jane Kelly (bass/vocals) and Rowan Smith (drums).The band plays music that rings comparisons to The Shangri-Las,Marine Girls,Claudine Longet,Astrud Gilberto.They have released their debut LP "I Don't See You As A Dead Girl" on Rev-Ola label consecutively produced by Joe Foster.It includes the cool "Electric Blanket" & my personal fave "Miss Myopia".They are currently working on a new full length which hopefully be released soon!

Here are a couple of their bubblegum splash pop songs to stumble upon:

Tibi Lubin - "Assasination no. 96"
Tibi Lubin - "Miss Myopia"

You can also download the remix version of "Electric Blanket" (which is not included in the LP)done by Norman Blake & Joe Foster Here

You can buy their release Here or direct from Rev-Ola

"Turn To The Sky"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Tue, 28 Mar 2006 23:26:00 +0000

Hello,

A bit furnishing some post that i should have posted in the past days but suddenly i didn't because of some problems regarding the time & schedule in school and in everyday life...Sorry if i had not posted a lot in this month due severely to the happenings around the country and now im back on track and bounce back to the world of P!O!P!dome.Do you remember the first time...?

A while back when i was searching (googling i mean),I had found about these great and charming kababayans up on their heels making catchy & fun pop songs on the other side of the globe,Hearing influences from a wide arrayed of great artists and recalling the cuteness of TWEE,The Skyflakes are more than just a band playing great indiepop tunes.Based in Northern California with a heart of a Filipino and consist of Tricia Saria Ramos (vocals),Ron Ramos (guitars),Jericho Saria (guitars),Oliver Saria (drums) and Jesse Gonzales (bass guitar).The band (who are truly living up to the term DIY) have self released their output on their own with their debut LP "Calling In Sick" being released in 2001.They also contributed to various compilations which resulted in gaining a cult following which includes appearances in "Casino & Fine Dining Vol.1" on F.U. Records in 2002,"Neighbourhood Watch" in 2003,"Underground Screams" also in 2003 on Asian Man Records and currently "7 Years Of APAture" and "The Bindlestiff Compilation".

The band is setting up their new recordings & a new member is expected to join the band this year & We're yearning for more crunchy & flakey tunes from this low profile group...

Here are a couple of their songs for you to taste:

The Skyflakes - "Bad Thoughts"
The Skyflakes - "Talk About Today"

For more on their sound/news/info and merchandise,Visit them Here

Thanks to Ron Ramos for the info and much needed help

"Everybeat Of The Heart"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Thu, 23 Mar 2006 17:35:00 +0000

Hello,

Pretty back on hiatus after that stormy political destabilization at the start of the month and a great gig last Tuesday at 6 Underground in Makati.So many things had happened in the past days and I'm very happy that my life now has it's joy of living!Now going up on the direction of happiness and i wish it will push through as times (and tears?) goes by...

I kindly rekindled listening back to those tunes that i miss...Back in 1998 when i first encountered this band through the record collection of my cousin,Noel.He was playing a very upbeat song that i had to listen even for a glance just to hear those lovely melodies coming out of the stereo...Hurrah!At last,Ive heard The Railway Children.

Formed in Wigan,UK in 1984 and composed of Gary Newby,Brian Bateman,Guy Keegan & Stephen Hull.Playing with their brand of sweet & chimy guitarpop,The band found minimal success by signing to the influential indie label,Factory Records wherein they released their debut mini-LP "Reunion Wilderness" to much critical acclaim in 1987.This includes their debut single "A Gentle Sound" & the much lauded "Brighter"which later became hits.Their cult following began to uphold as they soon landed a major deal with Virgin Records resulting in their sophomore effort,"Recurrence" in 1988 featuring a much more guitar oriented tunes like "Over And Over" (my fave!) and "Monicas' Light".

In the fold of the late 80's where the music scene in the UK are widely based on dance music & the band soon incorporates dance beats on their sound releasing their third effort,"Native Place" was released in 1990.A very tight & interesting LP which includes "Everybeat Of The Heart","Collide","Because" and a lot more great tunes to unravished.A hiatus followed after the release of this LP...A Radio One Evening Sessions was released in 1993.Another blow was suffered when Bateman and Hull leave the band in 1994.In between this time,A compilation was released highlighting their best years on Virgin Records titled "Listen On" released in 1995 contains some b-sides & a different outtake on the title track.

A new hope was seen after a few years as the band (mainly composed of Newby) carried the torch as the should be 4th LP submerged in 1997 called "Dream Arcade" which includes the airy single "Skinship" on their own label Ether Records (after having a much dispute on March Records).A couple of years have followed before a compilation of acoustic & new songs were released titled "Gentle Sound" in 2003.A new stuff was set to released this year but still doesn't know if it will carry by name of The Railway Children or simply by Gary Newby...We'll never know so we better keep our fingers crossed...

Here are a couple of their songs to make you reminisce how good those ol' days are:

The Railway Children - "Like No Other" (demo 1989 unreleased)
The Railway Children - "Sunflower Room" (from the compilation tape "North Of England" 1988)

For more news/info,Visit them Here where you can also stream some of their videos

Buy TRC releases Here or at Amazon

"Charlotte Sometimes"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Wed, 01 Mar 2006 14:15:00 +0000

Hello,

Just got back in...What a week that was!A great timing as it was raining outside after a very warm day last week,Truly summer is on it's way and a few minutes later on...BOM BOM BOM...An earthquake occur!Holy gosh...Shaking down my head!But thank God it was just in a lower scale and i don't know...But im OK and trekking down the flooded area of a nearby community is a must,I did it...Yeah,yeah,yeah!!!

So back on a higher note,I received an e-mail from Nick Fuller & another great news to fonder with!Nick was in a band called Almost Charlotte (remember those Leamington Spa Series?).The band was formed way back in 1987 in Brighton,UK featuring Ian Phillipson,Anthony Squires,Bill Russell and a drum machine!The band was soon to be joined by Matthew Griffin and later Nick.

1989 saw the band garnering some rave reviews both on local radio with their brand of guitar pop inline with the twangy C86 style of playing.A release of material followed with their single "Sleep" being already released on their own Moments Of Pleasure label.The released catapulted them with a following & a chance to play with other great acts like Goodbye Mr. Mackenzie & The Band Of Holy Joy...Sadly,things were not on their way...As the band progressed,Bill Russel left and a replacement followed in the form of Gwyn Carwardine and Bill Tolputt briefly came but the sound of the band at that time was at far different from the original one that when founder & chief songwriter Ian Phillipson left,The band was put on a hiatus in 1990.

The band had already had their share in the P!O!P! world but it is not gonna end there...Much interest was found when copies of their release "Sleep" landed on different parts of the globe!Firestation Records included them in the 5th series of "The Sound Of Leamington Spa" which includes their song "Frustration" (taken from the "Sleep" release) garnering not only old fans but also fans across the world (including me!).

After the demise of Almost Charlotte the band was soon to give birth to other lovely bands called Bluff and presently,Rogue Beauty.Check them out & another cool news is that they have rejuvanated their own label,Moments Of Pleasure back on track again & they have a new compilation released just last December of last year titled "I Think Of The Sea" which includes old songs from Almost Charlotte & the label.

You can stream a couple of the tracks from release Here

Visit them Here for news/info

Buy their releases Here

Thanks to Nick Fuller for the pic & info

"Just Like Honey"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Wed, 01 Mar 2006 05:53:00 +0000

Hello,

After a bit of struggle on the forefronts of some rumours revolving around the state of the country the past weekend,I had already gone by pass those bad news about the political issue concerning the Philippine government & supremacy...Anyone was right isn't it?

But back on the regular basis,I had a very beautiful weekend night travelling along the coastal lanes of Cavite to Manila seeing citizens walking by,passing along without even noticing the problems of everyday life...Still with smile across those round faces...It was past 12 already when i got home & before i go to sleep i soundcheck a little bit with these refreshing band from (again and again...) Sweden,Where else do i expect for?Summer is on it's way already and it's a perfect blend to introduce the band called Like Honey.

Formed in late 2003 in Malmö,Like Honey are composed of Johanna Cromnow (vocals),Joakim Karlsson (guitars),Klas Sjöberg (bass, guitar,vocals),Sandra Svensson (organ,synthesizer) and Therese Åsberg (drums).Their music encompasses such Swedish bands like early The Cardigans but with more guitar oriented sound and Sonic Youth minus the angst but replaced it with girlinky voice of Johanna & the anthemic synths.After performing in their native homeland which gained them a loyal following not only in Malmö but with other parts of Sweden in which they are signed by independent label Hybris (home of other great Swedish pop stalwarts including El Perro Del Mar,Vapnet,Etc.).

They already achieved a cult following abroad with the release of their debut EP "So Silent" in 2004 which prove how capable the band are as a pop group.Late 2005 see's the release of the highly acclaimed EP "Airport" which blend pop with amalgalm guitars drowned in synthesizer beats.The title track (which is my fave song) proves how much the band evolve in recent years & im inloved with the Stereolab meets Sonic Youth track "Let It Pass" with bubbly chorus fading along,Great!!!

Im looking forward in seeing a full length from the group & as of now you can hear a couple of soaring sounds from the band to start your summer:

Like Honey - "November"
Like Honey - "Airport"

You can hear more Here plus you can download their video for "Airport"

Visit them Here for news/updates

Buy their releases at Hybris or Here

"Tell Me You Love Me"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Sat, 25 Feb 2006 11:46:00 +0000

Hello,

How's everyone?A bit busy this month following some buzzing news occuring around the country...What's going on?Whew...It's those hazy days again...

Im just making fun inside the house while commotions in other places are happenin' at the same time...Just playing some playful tunes from these wonderful Swedes who hails from the west coast,In a town called Halmstad.They or He is called Eisenhower playing nice music with an anorak feel in a twee way!With guitars,drummachines mix with nice vocals it surely sums up the great music it produce which will remind you of sunshine & spring coming in the air...So lovely,Oh lovely...

Eisenhower is form through the brainchild of chief songwriter Henrik Påhle (who says this projects is just for fun).Playing songs full of fun & cuteness,There is no way for sadness in his music but it will be filled with songs of love & relationships in a very happy mood.Releasing his music on his own with 5 Cdr-s full of demos (including his renditions of classic hits from Joy Division,The Smiths,Nixon & Gordon Lightfoot),A compilation Cdr & An appearance on the compilation "Hit Music Only" on Heavenly Pop Hits label.Six live gigs are already accomplished eversince his formation of the band including "Mitt Bästa Liv" festival (where various members of Handsome Train & The Gentle Smiles back him up playing live tunes),Starke Adolf Popklubb (where in they are joined by another tweepop stalwarts,Pipas) and Delicious Goldfish Brunchpop.

Any labels from Sweden...are you listening?Or is it around the world?

Here are a couple of his tunes to dance with:

Eisenhower - "You Are My Number One"
Eisenhower - "Tell Me You Love Me"

More from Here

For news/info on the band you can pay a visit on Eisenhower Estate Here

Buy his stuff Here or at Delicious Goldfish Records

"You Can't Hide Your Love Forever"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Thu, 02 Feb 2006 17:44:00 +0000

Hello,

Whoa!!!I've been surfing the net listening along the lovely chimes of "Lachrymose" (is it a coincidence?) when i received a very wonderful mail from Ryan of Apple Orchard announcing a good news that the "7 "A Hiding Smile" is already released & can be purchased from Humblebee Recordings.Great lovely tunes reminiscent of Brighter,Bouquet,Harper Lee,Pinkie,Sarah Records,Etc.More info Here.

I've been so much happy in the past few days on what has been happenin' on the music scene (in local or around the globe) as for the past couple of years has been a declaration of good things to come...It's already the 2nd month of the year & it see's another series of great releases as started by my post on the new release by Apple Orchard.Next was another fine gem from the past (again & again) and this time it will be from The Servants.

Feburary sees the Cherry Red label release an album called "Reserved" by The Servants (CDMRED 297).The Servants were formed in London in 1985 and were based around the carefully crafted guitar work of David Westlake.Phil King who went onto play with Felt and Biff Bang Pow,Lush,Etc was also in the band.Their first two singles,"She's Always Hiding" and "The Sun, A Small Star" both on the Head Records label attracted good press interest and both made the independent singles chart.Westlake then went on to a solo deal with Creation Records while The Servants reformed around future The Auteurs and Black Box Recorder man,Luke

Haines.Also involved in the new line up was Hugh Whitaker who had previously been with The Housemartins wherein they released an LP,"Disinterest" in 1990 on the Fire Records subsidiary,Paperhouse.Luke Haines wrote the sleeve notes for this release which is quite a good one specially for fans of early Go-Betweens,Postcard Records,C-86 in general.

Here's the tracklisting:

The Sun, A Small Star?A Fleeting Visit/You'd Do Me Good/Afterglow/She Whom Once I Dreamt Of/It Takes No Gentleman/It's My Turn/Rings On Her Fingers/Meredith/ She's Always Hiding?Do Or Be Done /Transparent/Faithful To 3 Lovers/Funny Business/Loggerheads/Search Under Stones/Water Baby Blonde/Who's Calling You Baby Now?/Hey, Mrs John/I Just Wasn't Made For These Times

Pre-order/Buy these release on Cherry Red

Also a round of re-releases are gonna be released this month by Dislocation Dance (see my post on them September of last year) which are set to be released by LTM this month.Their first LP,"Music Music Music" accompanied by the mini-LP,"Slip That Disc" on 1 CD!

Here's the tracklisting:

Stand Me Up, Don't Knock Me Down, YOPS Course, Meeting Mum & Dad, Friendship, Take a Chance (On Romance), ...Have a Dance, Roof is Leaking, With a Smile on Your Face & A Frown in Your Heart, Vendetta (Theme), Narrow Laughs, Footloose, Can't Race Time... and the Mad Killer (Coda), Wonder What I'll Do Tomorrow, Rosemary, Shake, Can't Race Time... and the Mad Killer (Version), You'll Never Know, You Can Tell, Spare Concern, I'll See It, It's All True... Panic!, We Can Work It Out, So Much Fault, This Problem, Clarinet Source, Under One & Over

Also their sophomore released will be issued by LTM,"Midnight Shift" which was originally released by the Rough Trade label in 1983.The new digital remastered CD includes the 1983 Rough Trade album "Midnight Shift" with 5 bonus tracks from the satellite singles "Show Me" and "Violette" as well as the original version of "St Michelle" originally released on the Hours/Heures Sans Soleil compilation.New artwork composed of 17 tracks in 74 minutes of music.

Here's the tracklisting:

Show Me, I'm Doing Fine, Here Comes Love, Remind Me, Tyrannies of Fun, Open Cages, Baby Blue, With a Reason, Mr Zak, Bottle of Red Wine, Midnight Shift, San Michelle, Violette (7") , Remind Me (instrumental), Show Me (12" version), Show Me (Dennis Bovell dub mix), (The Next Year I Returned to) San Michelle (But Marie Had Gone & With Her My Childhood)

Lastly to summed it up was a released from the binocular jangly in a psychedelic feel Liverpudlians,Benny Profane.Formed by Dave Jackson and Becky Stringer from the ashes of lauded Liverpool indie-popsters The Room,Benny Profane went on to explore darker musical territory over the two albums released in 1989 and 1990 both of which are included on this expanded CD.They became Dead Cowboys after they had split up.Carefully remastered by drummer/guitarist Joe McKechnie (who also played in The Passage) the set also features two tracks from the first BP demo in 1985 featuring guest Will Sergeant of Echo and the Bunnymen on guitar.Enhanced artwork with band images and text by Dave Jackson worth of 22 tracks in 75 minutes of music.

Here's the tracklisting:

Man on the Sauce, Skateboard to Oblivion, Pink Snow, Quickdraw McGraw Meets Deadeye Dick, A Handful of Nothing, Rob a Bank, Tear the Web, Wall to Wall, Stitch That, Here Comes the Floor, Time Bomb, Hey Waste of Space, Maureen, Beam Me Up, Devil Laughing, Walk Away Macbeth, Ghoul Friend, Perfect Girl, SHC, Everything, Vain Profane, Credulous as Hell

Whew...so many great releases!So pick your wants to enjoy the coming Heart's Day!

Buy these releases on LTM or Here

"The Days Of Wine And Roses"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Fri, 27 Jan 2006 11:53:00 +0000

Hello,

It's been a rainy weekend and tomorrow will be a busy day,A special day for me i must say...Im gonna be turning a year older (It's my B-day!) & also im going to the Terno Au Go Go gig happening at the Marikina Shoe Expo in Araneta Center Cubao with some of my friends & i want to catch Soul Connection there along with Juan Pablo Dream!But now im listening to the lovely melodies of "Sunshine Smile" by these adorable bunch of dreamy lads who are playing great music eversince i heard them,Populardays.

The band is composed of Charles Manjares (see:Soft Pillow Kisses/Superminty) (vocals/lead guitars),Erick Lucas (vocals/rhythm guitars),Ian Gacutan (bass guitars) and Jan Paul Tatad (see:Soft Pillow Kisses) (drums).They have been playing music which is comparable to the music of Adorable,Popsicle,Slowdive,The Ocean Blue & other dreamy acts.Regulars of the Buzznights production and still unearthing their lovely demos to their cult following and i really must say that they are on their track as they win the In The Raw award given by radio station NU 107 back in 2002.

As of now they are still playing regularly & creating new songs of passion and some call it "indiepop" but other's says "it was shoegaze?"... but in my own it was just a splendid and great music...

You can listen to them Here or download their songs Here

I will enclosed the day with a smile in my face as i just learned that the debut LP of Freeheat will finally see the light of the day...The debut LP "Back On The Water" is scheduled to be released on March 28 and for more news & info on the release you can check the full info Here

See/Buy some of their releases Here

"The Best Is Yet To Come"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Tue, 24 Jan 2006 14:14:00 +0000

Hello,

Whew!I've been caught up by the sudden flush of rain along with my friend Joey when we met our other friend,Kaloy near the ABS-CBN compound...Im totally freakin wet!But it's ok as i got home already & Im happy to hear some great music...In a way that i was like in the early part of the 90's UK scene (i miss that!) & hearing these great band is a dream come true which i felt how come that those new bands does not sound like these instead of...Ahhh!!!

I was quickly jumping up and down again,feeling old again and hearing those great songs again...blue skies...come down on me?Well,i was impressed on how these band has been playin' those dreamy guitar lines & i just said to myself that i want more!All these shamblingness is caused by a band named Cerulean.

Yup,it sounds familiar (as it was also a titled of an LP of another great band,The Ocean Blue) but hey they really are great!Formed by Rick Bolander (vox/guitar),Noel Kelly (guitar) & Dave Cerwonka (drums) in Los Angeles.They are joined by studio bassist Will Bongianni in making those etherial pop gems.Often compared to post-punk graduates The Chameleons,The Comsat Angels,Echo & The Bunnymen,The House Of Love up to early 90's dreampop makers Ride,Swervedriver,Adorable,early Catherine Wheel,Pale Saints,Etc. which is a willing testament to their defining sound.Add to that,Their current new & lovely LP "No Sense In Waiting" was produced by the great & former Mighty Lemon Drop kid,Dave Newton.

They have released their debut LP "Skylight" back in 1999 then followed shortly by their sophomore,"Brighter/Still" in 2002.A couple of years followed before their groundbreaking EP,"Fractions" shows up in 2004 which received a lot of praise from their followings along with music critics worldwide.

"No Sense In Waiting" was released last year in the much lauded music press & followed by a massive tour.It features the band at it's finest which i really loved from the busting & ringing guitar of opening track "Quiet Release" which was actually a louder song match with Bolander's antic lyrics.I also loved "Like Fading Stars" with it's very dreamy keyboards swerving along the rhythmic guitars then followed by my fave track "Here Is Hoping" with it's drum beating to my heart!This 3rd LP of them is one of the highlight of these US based band with UK leanings on their mighty sound,lovely & entertaining i must say!.More!More!More!.

So sit down & relax...

Cerulean - "Rings Of Light"
Cerulean - "Very Happy With"
Cerulean - "Quiet Release"
Cerulean - "Here Is Hoping"

Buy their music/products Here

Also i just known that the coming new LP (as said in the current newsletter) by these great pop stalwarts,The Charade will be released this year with a tentatively titled "A Real Life Drama".Here's the tracklisting:

A Tough Decision
My Song To You
Music Makes Me Sick (sometimes)
September
Dressed In Yellow And Blue (unofficial Germany 2006 Swedish World Cup Soccer song)
Faith
Love Always Happens So Fast (Real Life Drama)
Sunny Winter Afternoon
Impatience Blank
Love Trap
Stockholm July 2005
Rain On Your Parade

Looking forward in hearing & seeing these great release & more info Here

"You'll Never Be That Young Again"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Sun, 22 Jan 2006 12:50:00 +0000

Hello,

Been back after a busy week & a hectic one though...In a week im gonna turn a year older (ah!!!those were the days...im getting old...) while the whole nation is rejoicing!Thanks to Manny Pacquiao who just went away with the boxing crown,You can read the whole story Here.

Also, Im surprised to hear that David Byrne had came to pay a visit (or he has a project going on?) in the country last month.You can read the adventures & escapades he encountered in the Philippines Here.By the way...I am busy uploading some links & I'll be adding some stuff in the coming month's plus a preview of some bands & brand new faves!.In the past days i am serving my taste on a lot of Swedish pop & acts (some are already mentioned on other sites & blogs) which really got me tinkling to my brain..."In every minute of every day,They are (Swedes) producing some of the best nor brightest ideas ever made in an art called music".A lot of acts have been sprouting on their native P!O!P! land which is quite impressive!.

I want to list down some new Swedish acts which caught my attention & im gonna start up the hit list with the band who hails from Gothenburg,My Enemy.Formed during the peak hours of 2004 with it's guilty parties consisting of Helena, Samira and Leonel.They play groovy laptop based pop with a twist of lo-fi mentality,A bit of Saint Etienne on tweezers.As of press time...They have just released a music video for "Khreis" which is also released as a single.Check them out if you had a slow time wishing that your day would be on a hilltop...Maybe you want to go with the flow of chiming synths & laptops?Check them out:

My Enemy - "Khreis"
My Enemy - "My Time Coming"

How many times can you be on a portal?I wish that portal can go directly to my own fave band or interest...or maybe i just need Thirdimension.They were formed way back 1995 but still kicking great guitar pop mix with melancholic vocals reminiscent of Ian McCulloch,Chris Martin (i need to say this...at some point they are monotomous) at present.Composed of BJÖRN STEGMANN (songwriter/lead vocals/acoustic guitar/conjurer of hi-fi),MARKUS SLIVKA (electric guitar/backing vox/keyboards/misc instruments),MARTIN ROSENGREN (electric bass/backing vox) & BJÖRN WICKENBERG (drums/backing vox/percussion).Signed to Hidden Agenda/Parasol & with 2 LP's on their belt back it up with a wide arrayed appearances on various compilations,Thirdimension is on their way to another future...bright i might guess.

Thirdimension - "Between Us"
Thirdimension - "Hundred Miles An Hour"

Setting up the climax was a band led by Isak Klasson,The dissonant but charming Speedmarket Avenue.It all started when i heard "He's A Rebel" which strike me like a neon ball that bump to my head.With it's jangly guitars and upbeat chorus (no wonder as the producer of the LP,Fredrik Norberg is a member of jangle popsters,Popsicle).Their debut LP,"I'm Going To Let My New Swiss Army Knife Answer To That" is one of those records which buggles with pure pop mannerism filled with songs that happens in every day life like "Leave.Now." & "Here To Folow" which i find myself quite relating to the subtle lyrics it provides...An LP full of surprises & if you want a balance sound then go reflenished your ears along Speedmarket Avenue!

Speedmarket Avenue - "He's A Rebel"
Speedmarket Avenue - "I Can Tell By Her Eyes"

In the meantime,I'll take a nap...Maybe...a sleep...

Buy Swedish releases/records @ Popkonst/Labrador/Poppolar/Hello! Surprise!

"A Hundred Words"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Fri, 13 Jan 2006 16:27:00 +0000

Hello,

A busy weekend is at face as fiesta in our town is underway...Inviting old friends & high school sweethearts is a must but im sure music is the main concern and im planning on what songs am i gonna play on that coming special day,Wooosh!!!

Getting back on the normal high note of putting up those stuff & I wanna say thanks to all the guys who write to me on the article "Filipino Blood,English Heart" and for letting me know some of the forgotten bands & i will update it in a couple of days.I may have stressed myself a bit cause i was suffering from a stomache ache a couple of days ago & thank God i was OK now as i listen to these madly missed band,The Beloved.

Originally a quartet whose sound drew inspiration from psychedelia & guitar pop and at some point,C86.Throughout its fluid existence,The guiding force behind the group remained vocalist Jon Marsh who formed the band The Journey Through (which was very New Order'ish) at Cambridge University with Steve Waddington and Tim Havard with the addition of Guy Gausden in November 1984 after which the group renamed itself The Beloved and gradually evolved into a moody dance outfit not dissimilar to New Order.

In 1986 the band issued their first single,The guitar inflicted gem,"A Hundred Words".After the single was released a series of releases followed including the EP "Happy Now" and the double A-sided single "Surprise Me"/"Forever Dancing" and the 1987 compliation "Where It Is" on the Flim Flam label but none garnered any significant critical or commercial success.Consequently, Gousden and Havard exited in 1987 at much the same time Marsh and Waddington were falling under the sway of London's burgeoning rave community which was sweeping England back then.After first re-emerging with the ambient-styled single "The Sun Rising" the band then scored an international hit with "Hello",A bubbling techno exercise which name-checked many of the group's influences.In 1990 the duo issued a pair of albums,"Happiness" and "Blissed Out" (a remix of its sister release) which achieved significant success both in and out of clubs. A long layoff followed...

And when the Beloved returned in 1993 with the energetic LP,"Conscience",Waddington had been ousted in favor of Marsh's wife Helena resulting in a more pop-oriented flavor.After another three-year absence they released "X",A foray back into club culture.In 1997 they released "Single File" which was a compilation album and a bunch of new remixes of "The Sun Rising".

Here are a some of their tunes back on those heydays:

The Journey Through - "A Search" (demo December 1983)
The Beloved - "A Hundred Words" (Peel Session January 1985)
The Beloved - "Jennifer Smiles" (demo late 1988)
The Beloved - "Franny" (from the unreleased LP on Flim Flam)
The Beloved - "A Happy Man" (from the unreleased LP on Flim Flam)

More on Here including some remixes/demos/Peel Sessions and the unreleased LP on Flim Flam label (which is very GOOD!!!)

For more info check them out Here

Buy their releases Here

"Silent Sigh City"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Sat, 07 Jan 2006 12:32:00 +0000

Hello,

It's another sunny day as me & my friend were walking down the stretch of a shopping mall and another fine day to watch a movie but my time would not permit me as i still have to rushed to my friend's place to bring him some rough Cd-r's & a lay-out of compilation that we are planning to release in the middle of the year (hopefully...).

When i dropped already to his crib,I put some music on the stereo by this very cinematic but quite ambivalent band which brought to mind some music from those classic musicals of the 40's up to the 60's,With it's pop leanings mix with cabaret & film scores...A band named Heist.

Formed in 1998 by Mike Targett (vocals/guitar),Allison Thomson (vocals/trumpet) (she also plays in The Actionettes),Hannah Sless (vocals/violins),Tony Oudot (drums) and Tricia Reid (bass) in London at the dawn of Britpop's downfall.With it's swinging 60's psychedelic sound,The band debuted with the 4 track EP,"Defectors" on Super 8 Recordings.It was followed by their proper LP,"Friday Night At The Trabi Races" which garnered excellent reviews in the UK & across Europe.Their latest release was "A Shopkeeper Will Not Appear" which is a bit poppier than their previous effort to date with it's melancholic vocals mix with harmonic violins & guitar drama.Here are a couple of their songs to chill on:

Heist - "If"
Heist - "Weekend"

More info/news on them Here

Buy their releases on Amazon or direct Here

Remember the jangly days of Postcard Records,Creation,C86,Sarah & whole lot more?Just mix it with the new world order of indie-pop and you'll get these great but hard to see band called The Silent Boys (remember them?).They have been playing cool music in the past decades & have been on various compilations ("Seven Summers" on Tweenet Communications/Kindercore,"Will There Be Time For Tea?" on Morgan Leah and "You Thought It Was The End Of The World When The Rain Ruined Your Hair" on Firestation Records) and they have released their highly acclaimed debut,"Beauty Tips" back in 2004 to the janglepop hungry fans all over the globe.

If you loved Felt,McCarthy,Mighty Mighty,Brideshead,Den Baron,The Go-Betweens,Adorable,New Order,Echo & The Bunnymen and other fine acts,You'll loved them!But hey wait!It's not endin' there as the long wait is over,The band has just released a new LP!Yes,not a single song nor a best of but a NEW LP full of jangly P!O!P! tunes titled "Wishing Well Eyes" still on Walrus Records.With it's founder and leader Wallace Dietz leading the way & the two other permanent members of the band still on board (bassist and lead guitarist) John Suchocki and (drummer) John Morand,The Silent Boys will be ringing our heads with their guitar oriented pop songs!

For more info & To hear some snippets of their works,Visit them Here

Buy their releases at Tweekitten or Tonevendor mailorder or Direct from Here

"Completely And Utterly"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Fri, 06 Jan 2006 16:09:00 +0000

Hello,

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!It's been a busy year & I am hoping these time it will be a fruitful one...And my hopes were heard...In celebration of the great C86 tape (whoa!It's been 20 years!) Cherry Red is releasing a compy by one of the great and sadly missed band of that music scene,The Chesterfields titled "Electric Guitars In Their Hearts" which will be released this month & a great stuff to kick the year off...

Formed in Yeovil,Somerset,England back in 1984 & signed to the legendary Subway Organisation label.This 27 track compilation is the first to cover the whole of the band's career.After having 4 Independent chart hit singles, including the highly rated "Ask Johnny Dee",Their debut album "Kettle" was released in 1987 and reached No 5 in the Indie Charts - two more albums,"Westward Ho!" and "Crocodile Tears" followed over the next two years."Flood",their 2nd LP appeared in 1994 on the Viny Japan label."Electric Guitars In Their Hearts" also features a previously unreleased version of "Glad For You",with Rob Ellis (PJ Harvey),Clare Mactaggart (Portishead) and Andy Strickland (The Loft).Here's the tracklisting:

Shame About The Rain / Completely And Utterly / Ask Johnny Dee / Sweet Revenge / Best Of Friends / Two Girls And A Treehouse / Nose Out Of Joint / Love Mountain / Oh Mr Wilson / What's Your Perversion / Pop Anarchy / Sob Sob Story / Everything A Boy Could Ever Need / Goodbye Goodbye / Last Train To Yeovil / Let It Go / Lunchtime For The Wild Youth / Alison Wait / Blame / Male Bimbo / Fool Is A Man / Down By The Wishing Pool / Glad For You / Fountain Of Youth / Hangover Eve / Something Happening /The Berlin Walk

More info on them Here

It seems that a lot of interest has been garnered on the whole C86 scene as the previous re-issues of The Loft,The Dentists,The June Brides,The Flatmates,Etc and now The Charlottes.Cherry Red is having a full blasts as it brings one of the classic pioneers of long gone era,Another compilation titled "Liar:The Best Of" will also be released this month.The
Charlottes were formed in Huntington in Cambridgeshire in 1988 and were usually tagged alongside the likes of The Primitives and The Darling Buds of the post C86 era but sonically were more attuned to the fx driven wall of sound pioneered by My Bloody Valentine.Their debut single "Are You Happy Now?" received much support from the fanzines of the time (House of Dolls,Pop Eats Apathy) and was said to be a twee classic by Dave Simpson of Melody Maker.

They were signed to Subway Organisation label in February 1989 and this resulted in the mini album "Lovehappy".Steve Lamacq of the NME gave the album 9 out 10 and declared The Charlottes to be "altogether more sexy than Kylie".Just as impressed John Peel interviewed the band for his Cambridgeshire show and they later recorded a 4 track session for him at Radio 1 which was repeated.The band split from Subway and signed a deal with Cherry Red their first release being the EP "Liar".This was promoted by a short tour and the making of a video which received exposure from MTV’s more alternative shows.In December 1990 Simon Scott left the band to join Slowdive who were on the Creation label.Cherry Red then released the existing tracks the band had recorded under the title "Things Come Apart" in 1991.The Charlottes left behind a small but impressive legacy... This release includes all their studio recordings.Here are the tracklisting:

Are You Happy Now / Cold / Stubborn / See The Danger Shine / Everything To Me / In My Hair / Love Happy / Love In The Emptiness / Be My Release / Could There Ever Be / Liar / Prayer Song / See Me Feel / By My Side / Mad Girls Love Song / Beautify / Love In The Emptiness (alt version) / Were Going Wrong / Blue / Venus

More info on them Here

Im looking forward in many re-releases this year & bring back those shambling days again!!!

Buy those releases Here

"Filipino Blood,English Heart"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Wed, 14 Dec 2005 14:47:00 +0000

Hello,

Im in a bit of hurry but still manage to shove my ears some beautiful and lovely homegrown music this early morning.Reading through the liner notes of a compilation release 4 years ago was quite a nostalgia...Refreshing to the minds along with the subtle music it plays in the stereo with those sadly missed bands which carry the relenting prowess of uniqueness through the years..."Where are they now?" i gently asked to myself after finishing reading the papercut like stories on the inlay of "Mutual Admiration Society" CD.

With dreams focused on the future and the Philippines on the binged of economic problem,political stability and some massive bandwagonesque...I missed those days,i missed the old faces and the music that binds each other on one happy family and one healthy music scene amidst from mass consumption and commercialism.

It harkens back in the early 90's when the whole Metro was swinging to the music of the mainstream and bands go jumping along but some will turn their back against the flow..."The Awakenings" revealed a whole new drama on the solely independent scene & on it sprout the seedlings of "No Zone" held on the much missed Club Dredd.It featured a much less attention bands but with more heart and taste!Dishing out with the likes of Sonnet LVIII,Aspirin,Melody Wrench,Shoemart,Archaster,Blinded By Love,The Aga Muchlach Experience,Mono Workshop,Pillowuzzi,Go Figure?,Fingernail Cocktail,Theresa's Hi-Fi,Sodajerk,Wadaiko and many more that i myself still want to see & hear...

CHANGE is the only thing that i must say is...standard which is also the same case on the scene & the bands i loved,Some drifted away and other's survive the collapsed of the scene...But before the dawn of the new millenium,A new breed was set to be uncaged from the demised of the old...This came "Buzznight" which serve as a continuation featuring bands like Candyaudioline from the brainchild of Allan Montero which in a few years will also give birth to the tweepop combo Soft Pillow Kisses,Apple Orchard,Colour Contest,Dorian Of Juniper Bells,Skies Of Ember,Spring Boutique,Populardays,Superminty,The Fantasy Lights,The Lubitels,Carnival Park and still many more...

Days and nights go by and the scene seems to be futile as some bands go on to produced and released their own recordings and other's played on the new productions.I for an instance loved to see how much effort these bands have shown and whenever these bands have a gig i always try to attend as i know how scarce i may have seen them play live!Some may just last only for a gig but other's stay for years...New productions emerged but still carrying the same aura & intentions...To make good music & shared it with others.We may not see the impact of these bands or the fame they deserved but the other part's of the globe are listening...Just listen OK?

I have listed a list of homegrown bands (others i have heard & own records but some i still do not heard or even see!If ever anyone know's how to contact them feel free to e-mail me) which to myself deserves to be heard not only by me but US...

Artist - Their music & my description on them:

Apple Orchard - (if you like Bouquet and Sarah Records this is your pick)
Archaster - (if you're down & the world seems so far away...Serge Gainsbourg is the man!)
Aspirin - (if you like The Charlatans & The Stone Roses with a dash of shoegaze)
Balloon Derby - (feeling like you were on a carousel filled with happy tunes,60's is back!)
Blinded By Love - (dreamy but sometimes eerie,psychedelic)
The Bloomfields - (throw on your dancing shoes to the tunes of surf & the 60's!)
Candyaudioline - (if you like MBV,shoegaze and a not so twee band but more of buzz guitars)
Carnival Park - (if you like a sunny day ride with a toy keyboard roaring...listen to them)
The Choking Brownies - (pro shoegaze)
Colour Contest - (C-86 proto types with indiepop tunes)
Daydream Cycle - (dreampop on tubes?synth but distorted mix with femme voice)
Days Like Postcards - (very heartwarming)
Dorian Of Juniper Bells - (slowly but surely you'll loved,Young Marble Giants & Dislocation Dance was a major influence)
Erratics - (a great sadly missed band,OPM should be played this way!)
The Fantasy Lights - (a drumbeats full of goodies,one man band set up sounding like a full band)
Fingernail Cocktail - (shoegaze with an indian spell)
The Happy Showers - (reminds me of Shoestings,sweet & charming!)
The Haircuts - (a tweepop duo,Pipas is a soundalike)
The It Boy - (one man band toying with his keyboards)
Kid Auto Races @ Venice - (jangly guitar pop!!!)
Kings & Pawns - (very promising & do i hear the best on them?indierock in your face!)
The Lubitels - (a mix of New Order jamming with The Field Mice)
Love Sattelites - (dreamy 80's influenced band,can i hear more of their JAMC tunes cracking up my head?)
Melody Wrench - (etherial sounding like Slowdive)
Mono Workshop - (keyboards beat as one!)
My Science Project - (catchy up tempo indiepop band from the ashes of Judith)
The Pin-Up Girls - (a jangly guitar driven pop band,a bit indiepop on some tunes)
Populardays - (shoegaze but a bit dreamy & jangly,Popsicle & Adorable is the hint)
She Came To Stay - (one man band with an ambient background)
Sheila & The Insects - (80's influenced quartet based in Cebu)
Shoemart - (Slowdive is their main influence & ask for more?)
Skies Of Ember - (etherial and dreamy like sonic dreams lushing in your deep minds)
Sleepyheads - (garage is the name & Jonathan Richman is part of the menu)
Sodajerk - (a guitar oriented band recalling Teenage Fanclub & other fine Scottish acts)
Soft Pillow Kisses - (twee...lovely,nuff said...)
Sonnet LVIII - (shoegaze,feeling like it was early 90's again?)
Soul Connection - (mod on a 60's feel,motown & northern soul)
So What? - (how about slowcore?cool mix of harmonica too!)
Spring Boutique - (a jangly pop group,twee mix with ringing guitars)
Sugar Hiccup - (dreampop,Cocteau Twins is vivid choice!)
Superminty - (indierock was the first idea but lately going on the shoegaze coup)
TV Guide - (indierock with DIY feel)
Under Shooting Stars - (electronic synthpop with a boy & girl voice)
Up Periscope - (it's krautrock but hey they are great)
Virginia Aeroplane - (sugary pop which is sadly i missed!)
Wadaiko - (tweepop with Rocketship influence)

I have missed so many bands so in case you know any which you think is included in the list feel free to inform me & im looking forward in hearing them:)

Buy some Filipino releases Here or at IndieCulture

"Buzz Buzz Buzz"

noreply@blogger.com (Jun Eric) — Tue, 13 Dec 2005 13:13:00 +0000

Hello,

Just got back home after a tiring & rainy day...Holidays are just around the corner and i still doesn't have a quick choice what gift will i buy to my loved ones,Whew!People are in a rush these days shopping & Im wonderin' why?...Last saturday i was able to watch Buzznight in Mayrics where a set of great bands were playing that night.Populardays take the first move and played their brand of dreamy but creamy kind of pop,a bit shoegazey on some tracks & i really loved that "Pop Days" song with it's Popsicle'ish guitar lines & They closed their set with a tune that sound like it was an Adorable track!Sadly,they didn't play "December Song" that night.

Next band which also crack some eardrum buzz that night was The Cactus Garden which did some lo-fi tunes mixed with distorted guitar feedbacks reminiscent of Beat Happening.They even take a turn on Coastal's "Her Reflection In Chrome".After their set,Kings And Pawns followed with their Strokes meets Arcade Fire style of playing.Starting it off with "Destroy The Heart" which was a crowd favorite and this band is great!!!They also did "Shadowplay" by Joy Division in replace of the original setlist of "24 Hours" as the drummer forgot the beats on it...

My Science Project followed and also played a great set that night with their ba-da-ba's & pa-pa-ra-rah kind of indiepop,Toying around their keyboard with their jangly guitars brought to mind comparison to early Acid House Kings,Starlet,Afraid Of Stairs and many swedish jangly bands.I leave when Candyaudioline was setting up as my companion wanted to go home that night & i wasn't able to catch them perform & my fave Soft Pillow Kisses...There must be next time...

Just glance to this loveable band early in the morning which match the rainy weather with it's bubblegum voice mix with jingle it keyboards and jangle that guitars,Shumai is a great pop group from Boston which was fronted by Don Shumai (guitars/vocals).Feeling like it was early 90's again with it's sound recalling bands like Velocity Girl,Heavenly,Tiger Trap.Check out their lovely debut LP,"Tastes Like Summer" on Total Gaylord Records specially "Tijuana Picnic" which was a personal fave! and hear those sugary tunes filled with charming keyboards that really brings the sound of summer and those sunny days again in our lives!

Here are a couple of their sunny tunes to make you smile:

Shumai - "The Lonely Passion Of Joey Heatherton"
Shumai - "Prescription Sleep"

More on Here

Buy their records Here