December 2022 – Page 2 – 1st 3 MAGAZINE

IOTA – A Positive Spin

24th December 2022

Bristol-based rock five-piece IOTA are pleased to announce the release of their debut EP ‘Tyrants’.

After their formation in 2019, the band released their debut single ‘My Enemy’ to critical acclaim, which saw them championed by the likes of Classic Rock Magazine and Kerrang!, and quickly selling out shows in their hometown of Bristol as well as appearing on festival bills such as The Great Escape and 2000 Trees.

Their recent singles ‘Sometimes’ and ‘Ballet Box’, taken from their upcoming EP, saw support from the likes of Classic Rock Magazine, RTE and BBC Radio 1’s Nels Hylton.

Written during a strained period of time for each member, their debut EP Tyrants provided the band with a needed outlet in which they could express themselves. Recorded between their self-built Omni Studios and Bristol’s Humm Studios with Ben Johnson (Skindred, Chaouche) and Idles’ Lee Kiernan, mixed by Tom Hennessy, and mastered by Pete Maher (Pixies, Jack White, The Rolling Stones), the result is a four-track all-killer no-filler affair, bursting with emotion.

Alongside the release of the EP comes their latest single ‘Control’, a song about fighting against the confines and restrictions holding you back.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the single the band state, “Control was formed in a headspace of feeling confined by people and unspoken rules in our lives; it was our way of fighting back. Control started with Josef writing an instrumental guitar part. The chord progression felt aggressive but assured and imbued an emotion that we could all connect with. The instrumental helped us uncover themes that were ongoing in our lives. Lyrically, we wanted to put a positive spin on the band’s collective feelings and taunt the restrictions over us.”

IOTA ARE:

Jodie Robinson – Vocals

Josef Parkes – Guitar

Sam Mattison – Bass

Joe Dean – Guitar

Thomas John – Drums

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IOTAOFFICIALUK

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotaofficialuk

Skinny Lister (Live Review) – A Shanty Punk Infusion

23rd December 2022

Music News, Music Reviews

Baby, it may have been icy cold outside but inside the beautiful Islington Assembly hall it was about to warm up…

It was the kind of warmth that floods right through you and comes from an evening of exuberance, fun and well, love, really. This was the very last night of the Skinny Lister 2022 tour, featuring Tom Jenkins and Berries.

Skinny Lister - the reason the Assembly Hall is now absolutely fooking rammed"

Tom Jenkins lit the kindling of the inferno-bound evening; a solitary figure, standing on the percussion and amp-packed stage with his guitar, he began to sing to us few listeners. How lucky were we to be there for the whole of his gorgeous, lyrical, story.

Tom dedicates songs to people from his home- “miners, farmers, relatives who worked and drank themselves to death before we could meet them.”

Toms voice is rich and warm, versatile (spanning several octaves without losing tone) and oh so expressive. His gentle introduction immediately connects the audience to him and each other, and it isn’t long before the room has filled up and the audience are in full sway with broad smiles for him and each other, charmed by this Welsh storyteller. The sound is melodic, emotional indie/folk with a country feel and it is simply captivating.

Some songs taken from his first album, Misery and Comfort (the title track dedicated to his dad) and others from his latest release It Comes in the Morning, It Hangs in the Evening Sky , Tom finger picks and strums his way through this beautiful, moving set, showcasing his multifarious talent. Tom dedicates songs to people from his home- “miners, farmers, relatives who worked and drank themselves to death before we could meet them.” He tells us about his life as a farmer- and he sings to us. It’s just lovely to listen to. His final song, Back Roads is an uplifting finale as he wishes us a Merry Christmas and promises us he will be back in 2023, this time with his band. The last refrain is “Where did I go wrong?” and our emphatic answer is- everything was right, Tom. All of it, all of you.

Gritty threesome grrrl band Berries were up next, this being their second Winter 2022 performance at Islington Assembly Hall.

Not an obvious filling for such a folky sandwich, indeed, they seemed to leave a bitter taste on some palates. However, their trademark energy pulsated through the crowd as they once more presented an engaging and forceful set of blistering, fierce, punchy yet melodic songs.

Click HERE to read our review of their previous Islington outing.

Berries are head-lining at Oslo, London next year so be sure to get your tickets.

And then, with a lightning turnaround, mandolins were tuned, accordions and melodeons miked up and a double bass, acoustic and electric guitars appeared, Skinny Lister – the reason the Assembly Hall is now absolutely fooking rammed, surge onto the stage and the extraordinary joy that they always bring is upon us.

The audience know every word they sing and greet each song like a well-loved, familiar face. The mutual love between band and fans hits you from the moment they begin, this is like old friends meeting after a long absence; soulmates reconnecting; the best kind of family gathering.

If you’ve not yet seen Skinny Lister live, you truly are missing out, so go! From the very first chord struck and battle cry hailed, the performance is an explosion of energy, joy and ultimate fun. ‘Wanted’ starts us off and with the cry, “I wanna feel alive”, fists are thrown into the air, mayhem is on the floor and people are infected with this particular kind of shanty punk joy.

‘George’s Glass’ and Tragedy in A minor’ see Scott Milson raising his bass onto this shoulders, relentless pace kept by drummer Tim Hillsdon, and Max Thomas leading us, his rowdy choir, in the rousing choruses on the melodeon. Country dancing style Rattle and Roar segues into a new country feel track with Lorna’s sweet, smoky voice reminding a few of us on the front row of the queen Dolly Parton herself. And for us, it is Lorna Thomas who runs the show, lapping the stage, climbing onto the blocks in the pit before going into the crowd and onto shoulders, her infectious, crazy joie de vivre filling us up with inspiration. As her namesake Lorna Doone says, “The love of all things was upon me, and a softness to them all, and a sense of having something even such as they had.”

The beautiful tune of What can I say follows arm-wrestling amidst the audience to accompany Arm-wrestling in Dresden before the Assembly Hall is flooded by multi-coloured lights as Dan Hepinstall sings ‘Colours’ and this feels like a big emotional moment. But before it all gets too sentimental, Party George (Lorna and Max’s dad) bounces on stage and the whisky is passed around the audience (albeit in Covid-friendly paper cups replacing the traditional flagon).

If such a thing were possible, Geordie Lad and Damn the Amsterdam raise the bar of jovial craziness yet higher as the band skip, bounce and frolic on stage and off it, cannoning off each other in magnificent chaos that this evening has become. The crowd roar with the band during John Kanaka, Rollin’ Over and Cathy, before the gentle, tender, folksy Bonny Away lulls us for a contemplative moment. Folk singer Beans on Toast joins the band to sing This Christmas and festive feels are all around.

This is War and the much-loved Trouble on Oxford Street end this joyously jovial party. But there’s more: not one, not two but three glorious, rollicking encores are their final Christmas present to us- Hamburg Drunk, Merry Christmas Everyone and Six Whiskies are the best kind of fun one can have at a gig, making us heady with exhilaration, congeniality and bonhomie. This was a roaring fire of an evening, a jubilant ‘matter of life and love’ that left us going home with the warmest, happiest and merriest of all Christmassy feelings.

https://skinnylister.com

https://www.facebook.com/tomjenkinsmusic1

https://berriesband.co.uk

Skinny Lister played Islington Assembly Hall Saturday December 17^th 2022

Support from Tom Jenkins and Berries

Words and live photography Copyright of 1st 3 Magazine

Not to be reproduced without prior permission. Social media use only for persons depicted, event organisers and venue. Not to be cropped or altered in any way.

JD Clayton – Like a Front Porch Breeze

22nd December 2022

Country News

Independent singer/songwriter JD Clayton will release his debut full- length album Long Way From Home on January 27th, 2023.

Following the September release of his Side A EP and multiple talked-about appearances at this year’s AmericanaFest in Nashville, the Arkansas native is building a strong foundation that this 10-song offering will continue to solidify.

Long Way From Home has a simplicity and sincerity running throughout. Clayton’s earnest lyrics and lived-in vocals are delivered with a balance of warmth and resolve, and his timeless sound has an immediate appeal. Within each song Clayton shares intimate details inspired by his upbringing, about the region where he was raised and looking back on recent life experiences. From the joy of becoming a new father to the impact the pandemic had on his life and career, Clayton exudes gratitude for what he has and newfound appreciation for what he almost lost. The young songwriter’s perspective shifted over the last few years and with that came a clarity that directed him to the artistic path he needed to be on. Long Way From Home is the result of his journey.

JD Clayton – Long Way From Home Track Listing

“Hello, Good Mornin’” (JD Clayton)

“American Millionaire” (JD Clayton)

“Beauty Queen” (Lauren Hungate, JD Clayton)

“Goldmine” (JD Clayton)

“Long Way From Home” (JD Clayton)

“Heartaches After Heartbreak” (JD Clayton)

“Cotton Candy Clouds” (JD Clayton)

“Midnight Special” (Traditional)

“Different Kind of Simple Life” (JD Clayton)

“Sleepy Night In Nashville” (JD Clayton)

The heartfelt title track features Clayton lovingly speaking to his mother about the need to chase his dream, regardless of the obstacles. The working-class perspective in “Different Kind of Simple Life” paints a vivid picture that places the listener inside the story. “Cotton Candy Clouds” exudes classic British influence with a rustic feel, while “Goldmine” swings with classic country tones and a honky-tonk vibe. Long Way From Home includes the four tracks featured on Side A – the relaxed album opener “Hello, Good Mornin’”, the defiant “American Millionaire”, the roadhouse shuffle “Beauty Queen” and the fiery rocker “Heartaches After Heartbreak”.

Long Way From Home (pre-add/pre-save) was produced by Thomas Dulin (Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors) and JD Clayton, and mixed by Craig Alvin (Kacey Musgraves). In 2018, JD Clayton released his debut EP, Smoke Out The Fire, featuring the track “Brown Haired Blue Eyed Baby,” which has organically received over 2.2 million streams on Spotify.

http://JDClaytonOfficial.com

Thomas Thunder – Phenomenal Chops

21st December 2022

Mainly Metal, Music News

“Duplicity” is a new Progressive Metal, Instrumental song written by 15 year-old drummer Thomas Thunder. This heavy hitting, power driven track has everything a prog metal fan wants: double bass drumming, odd time, virtuosic guitar and keyboards.

Featured musicians on this track include Derek Sherinian on keyboards, Ron Bumblefoot Thal on guitar, and Tony Franklin on bass. This is Thunder’s first single after his debut album The Pharaoh’s Temple released last year in September 2021.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Thomas on his debut album. I was extremely impressed with his creativity, and use of advanced harmony for a kid his age. I think the future is bright for young Thomas Thunder!”
-Derek Sherinian

“Ive had the pleasure of playing on the soon to be released album of Thomas Thunder. Thomas is a young up and coming musician and he’s a phenomenal drummer. He’s a very intricate songwriter that writes this amazing, crazy stuff that has been so tough to play. I’m on his album along with my Sons of Apollo bandmate Derek Sherinian, and bass player Tony Franklin. So, please check out this album. I hope you enjoy it!”
-Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal

“I was thrilled to play on Thomas’s album, with such an esteemed group of musicians. Thomas is definitely advanced for his years as both a writer and a player. I look forward to seeing how he will evolve as he creates more and more.”
-Tony Franklin

Thomas Thunder is young up and coming musician from Massachusetts, and is here to prove that a teenager can be a musical force to be reckoned with. With his intricate Progressive Rock songs that include odd time signatures and unique instrumentation, he has captured the attention of fans as well as seasoned, professional musicians.

Thomas began his journey as a musician when he started drum lessons at age five. He started playing in performance bands by age seven, and began songwriting at age ten when he released his first single and was awarded a prize in the Eventide Theater Songwriting competition. In fact, Thomas grabbed the attention of the ‘King of Keyboards’ Derek Sherinian (Sons of Apollo; Dream Theater; Alice Cooper) with his songs. By the time Thomas reached the age 14, he released his debut album The Pharaoh’s Temple, and his team of musicians included Derek, Ron Bumblefoot Thal and Tony Franklin continue to play on Thomas’ songs.

Thomas also began his academic journey this past year, and is taking Berklee College of Musiccourses as dual-enrollment during high school. He’s working towards his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Theory/Performance, and at the end of the Winter/Spring Semester 2023, Thomas will achieve a Berklee Professional Drum Certificate at 15 years-old. Thomas is also a member of the high IQ society Mensa.

The future looks bright for Thomas Thunder!

JESSE MALIN – Festive Regret And Isolation

19th December 2022

CHRISTMAS STUFF, Music News

New York based singer-songwriter Jesse Malin has shared a new video for the re-recording of ‘Xmas, etc’ from the upcoming 20th anniversary expanded reissue of his debut album, ‘The Fine Art Of Self Destruction’.

Directed by Dave Stekert, the clip was filmed around New York City with actor Jeffries Thaiss.

“‘Xmas, etc’ is a tale of regret and isolation,” says Malin. “Feeling alone and disconnected while everyone else seems to be loved and having a good time. When you know you messed up and can only hope for a better one next year.”

‘The Fine Art Of Self Destruction’ is out on 17th February 2023 via One Little Independent and includes a re-recorded, reimagined version of the entire album along with the original LP. “It wasn’t named for drug or alcohol abuse,” he explains. “It was more about a personal wreckage when I looked back on my life, from my parents’ divorce to failed relationships, broken up bands, dropping out of school, crashing cars, breaking things. It was more of a spiritual journey in some sense. This record is definitely one of my favourites.”

e-recorded with Malin’s longtime band, the bonus material was produced by Derek Cruz and engineered by Geoff Sanoff, who also worked on Malin’s more recent ‘Sunset Kids’ and ‘Sad And Beautiful World’ albums.

Following his teenage years in the pioneering hardcore band Heart Attack and his 20s fronting the wild and beloved D Generation, Malin took a cue from his songwriting heroes and was ready for a chance to stand alone. His solo debut was recorded over six days in New York City, live and raw.

“I was still learning how to sing and tell stories. These songs were written in a little apartment downtown, without a record deal, a manager, or any expectation of anything coming of it – just a need to write them.”

Malin arrives in the UK in mid-February to begin a European tour promoting this reissue, before returning to New York to perform at Webster Hall, where his special guests will include Tommy Stinson (who also guests on the European dates), Lucinda Williams, Butch Walker, Cait O’Riordan (The Pogues), Catherine Popper, Adam Weiner (Low Cut Connie), opener Fantastic Cat, plus more surprises to be announced.

THE FINE ART OF SELF DESTRUCTION
TRACKLISTING
1 Queen of the Underworld
2 TKO
3 Wendy
4 Downliner
5 Brooklyn
6 The Fine Art of Self Destruction
7 Riding On The Subway
8 High Lonesome
9 Solitaire
10 Almost Grown
11 Xmas
12 Cigarettes and Violets
13 Brooklyn (Walt Whitman in the Trash)
14 Riding on the Subway ’22
15 Downliner (Afterglow Version)
16 High Lonesome (PBR Vacation)
17 Cigarettes and Violets ’22
18 Almost Grown (Busker Version)
19 Solitaire (Song for Kelly Keller)
20 Queen of the Underworld (Cantina Version)
21 Xmas, etc.

ltd ed 2xLP
A1 Queen of the Underworld
A2 TKO
A3 Downliner
A4 Wendy
A5 Brooklyn
B1 The Fine Art of Self Destruction
B2 Riding On The Subway
B3 High Lonesome
B4 Solitaire
B5 Almost Grown
B6 Xmas
C1 Brooklyn (Walt Whitman in the Trash)
C2 Downliner (Afterglow Version)
C3 Solitaire (Song for Kelly Keller)
C4 Almost Grown (Busker Version)
D1 Queen of the Underworld (Cantina Version)
D2 Cigarettes and Violets ’22
D3 High Lonesome (PBR Vacation)
D4 Xmas, etc.

JESSE MALIN
UK / EUROPEAN TOUR 2023
15.02.23 GLASGOW Stereo tickets
16.02.23 MANCHESTER YES (The Pink Room) tickets
17.02.23 LONDON The Garage tickets
18.02.23 PARIS (FR) La Boule Noire tickets
19.02.23 UTRECHT (NL) dB’s tickets
23.02.23 BERGAMO (IT) Druso tickets
24.02.23 RAVENNA (IT) Bronson tickets
25.02.23 MARENO DI PIAVE, TV (IT) Corner Live tickets
27.02.23 HAMBURG (DE) Nochtspeicher tickets
28.02.23 COPENHAGEN (DK) Hotel Cecil tickets
01.03.23 LUND (SE) Mejeriet tickets
02.03.23 STOCKHOLM (SE) Bar Brooklyn tickets
03.03.23 OSLO (NO) John Dee tickets

jessemalin.com

LOTUS THRONES – Accept And Let Go

19th December 2022

Mainly Metal

**Philly Industrial Post-Punk Project, LOTUS THRONES, To Release New Album, “The Heretic Souvenir,” On April 7th**.

Philadelphia born riff-laden industrial, post-punk outfit LOTUS THRONES has revealed plans for a sophomore album, “The Heretic Souvenir,” to be released on April 7th, 2023via Disorder Recordings (CD/Digital) and Seeing Red Records (Vinyl). The project, helmed by main songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Heath Rave (ex-WOLVHAMMER, ex-ACROSS TUNDRAS), has launched a pre-order for the record and debuted a video for the first single, “Gore Orphanage.”

Commenting on the track, Rave says:

“This song is heavily inspired by jisei, the ‘farewell poem to life.’ They were death poems by Japanese zen monks and other individuals who could write at the time reflecting on leaving the world in the last moments of their life. Were you able to accept your beauty and your regret and let go?”

The output by LOTUS THRONES‘ Heath Rave over the last few years has been nothing short of prolific. With a full length album followed by a string of seasonal EPs, creativity continues to flow as he prepares for the release of his sophomore record, “The Heretic Souvenir.”

The impending record was produced and engineered by Sanford Parker and Rave at Hypercube (Chicago, IL) and The Magnolia Chamber (Philadelphia, PA) and mastered by Collin Jordan at The Boiler Room (Chicago, IL).

The Heretic Souvenir” Tracklisting:
1. Gore Orphanage
2. B0T0XDR0NE$
3. Alpha Centauri
4. Glassed
5. Roses
6. Autumn Of The Heretic Souvenir
7. Nautilus

https://www.facebook.com/lotusthrones/

Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells

17th December 2022

CHRISTMAS STUFF, Music News

The Ukrainian Chorus Dumka of New York, Children’s Choir Moloda Dumka and Acclaimed Conductor/Arranger Vasyl Hrechynsky Team Up with Haley & Michaels to Honour the 100 Year Anniversary of ‘Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells’.

The Ukrainian Chorus Dumka of New York alongside conductor Vasyl Hrechynsky and Haley & Michaels have teamed up to pay tribute to the 100 year anniversary of ‘Carol of the Bells,’ which was based on the Ukrainian song, ‘Shchedryk.’ The musical forces have released a stunning tribute today, Friday, 16 December, that honours two different traditions.

“As musicians, we are driven by our desire to put love and positivity into the world. We were especially honored when Vasyl asked us to work on his very special arrangement of ‘Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells’’, Ryan Michaels shared. “Vasyl, The Ukrainian Chorus Dumka and the Children’s Choir Moloda Dumka have become family to us – we love making music with them and using our collective voices to continue to spread Peace, Joy and Love – and continue to support and stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”

Written in 1916 by composer Mykola Leontovych, ‘Shchedryk,’ was traditionally performed by carolling boys in Ukraine who would go from house to house in their towns, singing and wishing their neighbours a Happy New Year, as the lyrics are based on a pre-Christian folk song. However in 1922, the song first made its way onto American soil at Carnegie Hall by the Ukrainian National Choir conducted by Alexander Koshetz. A little over a decade later, Peter Wilhousky wrote new lyrics to the composition and thus “Carol of the Bells,” was born. Since then, the song has become an integral part of the repertoire of choirs, orchestras, and popular singers alike who have helped to make this song a holiday classic.

“For me, this composition is special for a few reasons. To record ‘Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells’ contributes to the 100 years Anniversary celebration of Schedryk’s first performance on American soil,” shared Vasyl Hrechynsky. “To collaborate on one composition of two traditions in two styles of one melody titled ‘Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells’ and – to work with talented groups of performers such as Haley & Micheals, Ukrainian Chorus Dumka of New York, Children’s Choir Moloda Dumka.”

The release of ‘Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells’ is the second collaboration of the year for Haley & Michaels and the Ukrainian Chorus Dumka NY who previously worked on ‘Peace, Joy, Love‘ alongside Grammy-nominated pianist Jim Brickman and father-daughter duo Mat & Savanna Shaw. The song is equal parts hopeful and inspiring as it offers solidarity with the people of Ukraine as well as words of encouragement to those affected by the acts of Russia. All proceeds from downloads and streams are being donated to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s UNITED24 fundraising platform to aid the rebuilding of the country’s damaged infrastructure. ‘Peace, Joy, Love’ quickly caught the attention of the world as well and has been covered by the likes of Forbes and People, landed on the Grammy ballot and among others and was also featured in the Blake Shelton-produced Hallmark film “Time for Him To Come Home for Christmas.”

Inspired by the plea of President Zelenskyy, who was recently named the TIME 2022 Person of the Year, at the 2022 GRAMMY Awards to “fill the silence with music,” The Ukrainian Chorus Dumka NY, Haley & Michaels and Vasyl Hrechynsky, have been persistent in their efforts to bring light to a very important cause this holiday season. With a continued message of hope and unity, ‘Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells’ serves as another reminder of just how powerful music and the messages they share can be.

Listen to ‘Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells’ here.

Follow The Ukrainian Chorus of Dumka NY on Facebook and Instagram.

Follow Haley & Michaels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

JELLY ROLL – Making It Worthwhile

16th December 2022

Country News

JELLY ROLL RELEASES ‘NEED A FAVOR’ AND SELLS OUT BRIDGESTONE ARENA.

Multi-genre phenomenon Jelly Roll sold out Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last Friday evening (9/12),further cementing “his rising mainstream stardom with a 130-minute concert” (The Tennessean).Playing to a roaring crowd more than 15,000 fans strong, the Antioch native took the moment to perform his new single, ‘NEED A FAVOR,’ live for the very first time after releasing it the morning of his homecoming concert.

Featuring a packed set list that left the “hometown crowd… in awe” (The Tennessean), the South Nashville native with more than four billion career streams “showed that he’s a savvy entertainer as well as a uniquely personal songwriter” (Taste of Country). Jelly brought out several special guests out during the show, “each more excited to see him thriving on the city’s biggest stage than the last” (Taste of Country). Guests included ERNEST, Riley Green, Sam Hunt, Shinedown, Struggle Jennings, Tech N9ne, Krizz Kaliko, Chris Young, famed sports announcer Michael Buffer, and Jelly’s 14-year-old daughter, Bailee Ann, who took the stage to perform a song she wrote with her father’s encouragement about the pain of watching her mother’s addiction battle. Later in the show, Jelly was joined on stage by the renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers for the live performance debut of his new single, ‘NEED A FAVOR,’ before ending the show with his career-defining hit, ‘Save Me.’ Read more about the show via The Tennessean here.

In and out of the juvenile detention system since age 14, the Bridgestone headline date represented several milestones for Jelly, with proceeds from the show earmarked to build a recording studio and provide music programs at the Davidson County Juvenile Detention Center – where Jelly himself served as a teen-and for other programs benefiting at-risk youth in partnership with Impact Youth Outreach, including Hometown Heroes Scholarships for Metro Nashville Public School seniors.

After independently building his own fanbase, the past year has marked Jelly Roll’s biggest to date. Jelly Roll has held the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart for 16 straight weeks – marking the second-longest reign ever on the chart. His Gold-certified single, ‘Son of a Sinner,’ is currently Top 3 at Country Radio and climbing after earning Jelly his first Billboard Hot 100 debut back in July. Earlier this year, Jelly topped the Billboard and Mediabase Rock charts for two weeks with his debut Rock single ‘Dead Man Walking’ – his first No. 1 ever as an artist/songwriter. With ‘Dead Man Walking,’ Jelly became the first act this decade to top the Rock charts while simultaneously having a Top 30 song on Country radio, and he is the first artist in Billboard history to do so with debut singles. It was just over a year ago that Jelly Roll signed with BMG and sold-out the Ryman Auditorium in under an hour, prompting an immediate invitation to the historic Opry to make his debut.

‘NEED A FAVOR’ marks the latest release of new music from Jelly’s highly anticipated forthcoming album and the second new song release since Jelly’s current single, ‘Son of A Sinner.’ On 2 December, Jelly released ‘She,’ a ballad about the perils of addiction that quickly resonated with fans and that encouraged people, through the music video and Jelly’s partnership with Shatterproof, to seek help with addiction and mental health. Written by Jelly Roll, Austin Nivarel, Joe Ragosta and Rob Ragosta, Jelly’s new single, ‘NEED A FAVOR,’ was inspired by the “the internal fight between faith and vices” (American Songwriter) and continues his path of “therapeutic music.” Of his new music and upcoming album, Jelly shared earlier this month with Billboard, “I want to keep making music that helps people. That makes it worth it.”

Jelly Roll Official (jellyroll615.com)

PRESTIGE – A Journey Back In Time

16th December 2022

Mainly Metal

PRESTIGE Announce Reissue Of Pathbreaking 1989-Debut Album “Attack Against Gnomes”!

PRESTIGE were barely out of their teenager years, yet fully aware of the problems in the society and the world around them when they started making music in 1987. Often the band took a humoristic approach to song lyrics, but if you dig deeper, there is always a message hidden in there. A song like “This World”, for example, is as relevant today as it was 35 years ago.

Their music was fast and aggressive, and PRESTIGE was the third thrash band to release a full-length album in Finland. The years 1988 and 1989 witnessed a real breakthrough of thrash metal in Finland, and PRESTIGE was right in the middle of it, ending up playing all over the country and hitting the charts.

The band’s iconic debut album, “Attack Against Gnomes”, was produced and recorded by renowned producer TT Oksala and was mixed at the legendary Finnvox Studios in Helsinki. The album recordings took seven days. Now, Massacre Records is going to re-release this must-have of a thrash metal record as a CD Digipak and limited Vinyl LP edition on January 13, 2023! The pre-sale is now available at THIS LOCATION!

"Finally, after 34 years of it's initial release our debut album will be released in physical form to the wider international audience. Back in 1988 Finland was a different metal country as you know it now. Exporting metal was random and hard if not impossible. We toured a lot back then, and lived fast," the band comments.

"On this album you will hear youngsters, hardly 18 years old, playing their music in passion and attitude.That has not changed a bit till today, the same passion is still there. We hope you’ll enjoy this little journey back in time!"

As bonus, the CD Digipak edition of the “Attack Against Gnomes” reissue includes the 1988 demo “GODS” which actually led the band to a record deal in first place. It was recorded with an eight-track recorder in just a few hours at Emma Studio, yet the band obviously knew what they were doing. On the demo you can hear the band raw and unpolished, yet full of devotion to their music and lifestyle.

Tracklist:
1. It’s Over

2.Force Of My Hate
3. Dead By Drugs
4. Attack Against Gnomes
5. Rotten Angel
6. Gods
7. Punishment
8. Brain Outburst
9. Rabb-it
10. Angels Cry
11. This World
12. Gods (Demo 1988) – CD Bonus Track
13. Force Of My Hate (Demo 1988) – CD Bonus Track
14. Brain Outburst (Demo 1988) – CD Bonus Track
15. Punishment (Demo 1988) – CD Bonus Track
16. Angels Cry (Demo 1988) – CD Bonus Track

www.prestige.fi
www.facebook.com/Prestigemetalband
www.instagram.com/prestigemetalband
www.massacre-records.com

BLANCMANGE (Live Review) – Still Raising Us Up

16th December 2022

Music News, Music Reviews

Neil Arthur stands tall at Islington Assembly Hall to prove Blancmange, despite its 40 year existence, had not lost its wobble.

On the last night of an extensive tour, Arthur showcases the beautifully constructed tracks from the latest album Private View, alongside other Blancmange classics. Supporting was none other than Stephen Mallinder, you remember, from Cabaret Voltaire.

As time rolls on, we are often reminded of Jim Morrison’s response to a question posed to him about the future of music…

.... it might rely heavily on electronics, tapes, I can kind of envision maybe one person with a lot of machines, tapes, and electronics set up, singing or speaking and using machines.”

Jim Morrison

And here we all were, bathed in intense blue light, an array of synthesizers and wired-in wizardry with Benge providing the electronic beats. Stephen Mallinder (all-round musical polymath) began his skilfull and beautifully crafted set of experimental pieces, which took us on a journey through five decades of avant garde noise.

Beginning with The Set Up which features layers of sounds build in repeated sections of four with additional effects, tunes and beats added each time. The insistent rhythmic drumming underpins the extraordinary fusion of sound as Mallinder speaks into the mic, building to a frenzy before fading away.

We could feel the floor vibrating with hypnotic communality"

Cool Down begins with a repeated section of four notes before an edgy bass riff and intense drum beats begin their syncopated rhythms. Mallinder’s voice once again adds the final layer before the song ends with the repeated initial notes.

Before our eyes, a spell is being woven amongst the crowd who are beginning to move, almost as one, to the mesmeric sound. Shock to the Body brings raw, coarse riffs which alternate between 4/4 and free time, before more tiers of sounds are added with the urgency of single words. The effect on the Assembly Hall crowd is captivating. In Contact, layers of drum beats build up and cross over, syncopated chords are added on top and the whole sound moves toward a fractured rhythm. A louder, buzzier Gravity sounds like Mallinder is experimenting with all possible effects on the synth; one after the other building to create a fierce intensity of sound.

We are with Stephen and Benge, all of us as one, totally immersed in the rhythms, the noise, the music. Mallinder finishes his impressive set with Working (You Are) and Colour, by which time we are totally immersed in his magical world of electronic, distorted musical resonance. The effect is almost tribal; spiritual- religious, even. We could feel the floor vibrating with hypnotic communality as the audience moved gently, almost as one consciousness, simultaneously swaying forwards, totally entranced.

Huge cheers erupt as Neil Arthur (Blancmange) comes on stage at the by now packed to capacity Assembly Hall. The crowd know it, the crowd love it and the crowd cannot wait to hear it!

Neil was joined on stage by Chris Pemberton (synth), Liam Hutton (electro drums and percussion) and Phil Jones (sound). White lights stream out to fill the venue as Neil begins his high energy, confident and classic synth pop set with the vigorous, captivating What’s Your Name, before bowing low to his fans, arms outstretched. He greets London town before launching into Reduced Voltage and then Feel Me; the rich, pulsating synth sound, electronic bass-heavy percussive elements and catchy guitar riffs giving the increasingly appreciative crowd exactly what they want – an exciting and rewarding mix of old and new.

By the time I’ve Seen the Word is aired, Neil has us wrapped around his finger and the crowd are dancing, swaying and loving the complexity of sound. His rich, warm tone is unmistakable and there is something about his easy, assured performance that makes it so much fun out there…

the whole place became a pre Christmas retro dance party"

The lyrics to Mindset and The Smiths parody Last Night I Dreamt I Had a Job with their ironic twists and puns capture the imagination of the crowd who are enveloped in this evening of nostalgia and experimentation. Allusions and imagery feature in his songs – they are a trademark of Blancmange and so many know and love these words, chanting and singing along with fervour and conviction. The eponymous and beautiful Waves, with its synthesized melodies and guitar riffs delights the audience and is followed by the erudite and probing song What’s the Time, which asks the listener question after ironic question, ranging from ‘What’s your favourite dog? Your best child?’

PRIVATE VIEW THE NEW STUDIO ALBUM FROM BLANCMANGE

AVAILABLE HERE

Private View, the title track from Blancmange’s most recent album, released in September 2022, has a punchy, repeated drum rhythm which underpins this fast moving song. Hands once more outstretched, Arthur repeatedly implores us to ‘Let go now’ before an abrupt ending heralds the start of All I Want is You, a song full of desire sung in that gorgeously strong warm voice. Take Me follows, featuring some beautiful piano melodies and tender, vulnerable lyrics which showcase Blancmange’s versatility and range.

Of course, what everyone was waiting for was the famous Living on the Ceiling and Blancmange duly made us wait until the very end for this fabulous, ultimately famous, well-loved classic synth pop song. This was the last song of the last show and predictably, the whole place became a pre Christmas retro dance party with many of us remembering short snapshots of our misspent youth, oh the joy.

This was a pure, lovely, happy evening with the best combination of old and new – the whirls and swirls of electronic cleverness, flawlessly accurate electro drumming and stylised melodies combined to create a gloriously retro yet modern synth sound. Blancmange gave an accomplished and infallible performance as stellar as the Assembly Hall glitter ball in full swing – and we loved it!

http://www.blancmange.co.uk

https://stephen-mallinder.tmstor.es

Blancmange played Islington Assembly Hall Saturday December 10^th 2022

Support from Stephen Malinder.

Words and live photography Copyright of 1st 3 Magazine

Not to be reproduced without prior permission. Social media use only for persons depicted, event organisers and venue. Not to be cropped or altered in any way.

« Next

Monthly Archives: December 2022

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Newsletter

Monthly Archives: December 2022

IOTA – A Positive Spin

Bristol-based rock five-piece IOTA are pleased to announce the release of their debut EP ‘Tyrants’.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IOTAOFFICIALUK

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotaofficialuk

Skinny Lister (Live Review) – A Shanty Punk Infusion

Baby, it may have been icy cold outside but inside the beautiful Islington Assembly hall it was about to warm up…

JD Clayton – Like a Front Porch Breeze

Independent singer/songwriter JD Clayton will release his debut full- length album Long Way From Home on January 27th, 2023.

http://JDClaytonOfficial.com

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“Duplicity” is a new Progressive Metal, Instrumental song written by 15 year-old drummer Thomas Thunder. This heavy hitting, power driven track has everything a prog metal fan wants: double bass drumming, odd time, virtuosic guitar and keyboards.

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New York based singer-songwriter Jesse Malin has shared a new video for the re-recording of ‘Xmas, etc’ from the upcoming 20th anniversary expanded reissue of his debut album, ‘The Fine Art Of Self Destruction’.

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Philly Industrial Post-Punk Project, LOTUS THRONES, To Release New Album, “The Heretic Souvenir,” On April 7th.

Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells

The Ukrainian Chorus Dumka of New York, Children’s Choir Moloda Dumka and Acclaimed Conductor/Arranger Vasyl Hrechynsky Team Up with Haley & Michaels to Honour the 100 Year Anniversary of ‘Shchedryk – Carol of the Bells’.

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