December 2023 – Page 3 – 1st 3 MAGAZINE

The Sweetchunks Band – All Aboard

17th December 2023

Legendary South-Coast Comedy Folk Band releases beautiful festive track ‘Come Back’ a tribute to Lemmy!

With his birthday coming up this month The Sweetchunks Band release a different type of festive track with ‘Come Back’ an ode to the legendary Lemmy Kilmister.

It’s a bit of a change from their up-tempo folk punk but it’s full of their trademark hilarity and is a really fitting track to commemorate the birthday of Lemmy.

The track is taken from the band’s recently released album ‘Glittunderbus’ which peaked at Number 1 in the Bandcamp Comedy Charts.

In a decade filled with laughter, libations, and lyrical genius, Southampton’s very own musical merrymakers, The Sweetchunks Band, are toasting to their ten years of gallivanting around the country with a brand new offering. This comedic folk sensation, renowned for their electrifying festival performances at The Isle of Wight Festival, Victorious Festival, Boomtown, and Beautiful Days, is back with their sixth album, ‘Glittunderbus,’ poised to take the world by storm.

For a full decade, The Sweetchunks Band has been serenading audiences with their uproarious blend of witty humour, original compositions, and hilariously funny performances. With a loyal following affectionately known as “nutters,” their music has been described as the life of the party—a riotous celebration of all things merry and musical.

Glittunderbus,’ a 13-track masterpiece of comedy folk genius,is out now

Fans and music enthusiasts alike can expect nothing short of hilarity, heart, and toe-tapping rhythms from this band of merry minstrels.

The Sweetchunks Bands is:

Aubrey Blakeledge – Vocalist

Mike Wiles – Guitarist

Ash Hibbs – Bass

Come Back is out now

https://www.facebook.com/TheSweetchunksBand

Dead Reynolds – Whipping Up A Storm

16th December 2023

Mainly Metal, Music News

Hailing from East Anglia, mixing alternative rock, and pop punk with anthemic melodies and unexpected twists to give a stadium feel show is what Dead Reynolds does!

One of their favourite quotes from a new gig goer was “you mix all my favourite bands into one!” For fans of anything with some passion, drive and determination! Songs from the heart with a heart of their own! Best served in an underground venue or on a festival main stage, not forgetting your Spotify playlist or workout anthem!

With long-standing support from Kerrang! TV, RockSound, Powerplay Magazine, Kerrang! Radio, Classic Rock, HRH Magazine, Emerging Rock Bands, Amazing Radio, Total Rock Radio, BBC Introducing and so many, many more! In 2022 they won ‘Single of the Year’ at the New Music Generator Awards and followed that up this year with the ‘Audience Choice’ award.

Latest single ‘Hurricane’ features
on the new EP ‘Animal’ which is out now!

Recorded by Jack Murphy
at Crystal Sounds Studio, Docking, Norfolk.
Written by Dead Reynolds:

Dom – Guitar & Backing Vocals / Luke R – Lead Guitar
Luke G – Drums / Ben – Bass / Ross – Vocals

“Hurricane takes Dead Reynolds to a new place! born out of mental health crisis, loss, addiction and struggle. Highlighting the unhighlighted and bringing to the surface the daily struggles we all face, however, in this case its perpetrated by one person! You!”

http://linktr.ee/DeadReynolds

The Pale White – (Live Review) A Tyneside Triumph

16th December 2023

CREATURE FEATURE, Music News, Music Reviews

Howay man! AN evening of Geordie Delight and soggy pants awaits…

In the heart of Highbury, there’s a tangible buzz of anticipatory excitement, mixed with the relentless driving rain. It seems the rain is the only thing driving with purpose, especially considering the standstill traffic due to those ever-irritating temporary lights on Holloway Road. But there’s a silver lining – we’re quickly ushered inside The Garage, ‘gawd bless you, security,’ escaping the downpour and being greeted with warmth, a stark contrast to our soggy surroundings.

Tough Cookie, first band on tonight, are unknown to us- and possibly to you too. Formed just a few months ago; the members, Will, Jess, Dan and Gav-their set, a guitar-driven, beautiful melodic shoegaze of an event, which hypnotised the early 20’s audience from the first chords strummed.

Nirvana–like melodies with Doors-like interludes prove very enjoyable"

There are slower, contemplative sections interspersed with frenetic, energy-filled slides, swoops, whoop de doops, frenzied playing, intense drumming and harmonised singing from all members. Impressive lead and bass solos are supported by driving rhythm on drums; Nirvana–like melodies with Doors-like interludes prove very enjoyable and soon there is a buzz to the slowly-filling Garage.

Next on are Berries. Yes, Berries again! We at First Three Magazine have witnessed their live performances several times now, and we weren’t really sure if there would be anything more to say, or indeed if they had anything more to show. 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. This evening, they turned it up to 11. ‘They’re back with a bite,’ commented a fan next to us in the front, who had seen them three months ago supporting Sleeper. Berries – Holly (lead guitar-and-vocals), Lauren (bass guitar-and-vocals), and drummer Lexi – embody their ever-present triangular properties of stability, strength, and zero dimension, such is their intensity, control, and connection.

The vocals are the cherry on top; Holly’s voice sounds the best it has ever been"

Tight, accomplished, and confident, their sound has an extra quality to it this evening, which we are going to describe simply as conviction. Holly starts with a catchy riff and strong intro vocal, with the pace building through each song, from ‘Wild Vow’ to ‘World of Noise.’ Lexi’s heavily syncopated driving beats are the perfect base for Holly’s convincing lead riffs and hooks and Lauren’s comprehensively flawless bass playing. The vocals are the cherry on top; Holly’s voice sounds the best it has ever been. A triplet-based beat, a well-loved feature of the Berries sound, is present throughout ‘Copy’ and ‘Grow,’ which both feature soaring, electrifying guitar solos, a fuzzy, ardent, repetitive bassline combined with driving drums. As the band launches into ‘We are Machines,’ twitchy, tense vocals accompany the fast and furious riffs and beat, this song sounding angrier, electrified, effortlessly fluid. After the impressively delivered ‘Control,’ there is a quick tune-up before the finale ‘Spirals’; the dynamic contrast wows the much fuller and certainly appreciative crowd.

We are aware that the Berries are smiling more than ever during this performance – and so are we. The confidence, the authority on stage (previously perhaps a touch more tentative) is now very much present. The Berries know they are good. Really good. Even… dare we say… outstanding?

Suddenly, The Garage has become a lot busier; this band hails from Newcastle, and Geordie accents fill the air. In the audience, there are also a few fervent fans from Germany. They don’t speak English, but their adoration for this seemingly Farrow and Ball named band is evident from their intense facial expressions and expansive body language—arms are outstretched, torsos are leaned forward. These guys are eager for some Pale White.

The Pale White is a three-piece indie rock band, consisting of brothers Adam (Lead Vocals, Guitar), Jack Hope (Drums), and their long-time friend Tom Booth (Bass). Attention on these three has been rapidly growing for their signature melodic guitar playing, emphatic rhythm section, and hugely entertaining live shows. We know we are in for an out-of-this-world experience.

Jack, manning the drums, is nothing short of a rhythmic beast"

With a call out, ‘Are we ready?’ Adam launches into the first song, ‘How Far Can You Push a Man?’ It’s an intensely wild and whiplashed affair that sets high expectations for the evening. An impressively long set follows (21 songs in total), each one building on the success of the last, creating a whirlwind of sound, a tornado of emotion, and forging a tribe of committed worshippers. Adam beckons to the crowd in a confrontation, ‘Come on…the silence divides us,’ and there are shouts of ‘Rock ‘n’ roll’ and utterances of assent—’Yeah!’

‘Downer’, the third track, kicks off with a deceptively serene lyrical melody, lulling the crowd into a false sense of tranquility. But then, after a suspenseful pause… it erupts. A fierce, relentless triplet beat and a driving bass line explode into the air, jolting the energy levels through the roof. ‘Panic Attack’ follows, oozing with a raw, classic rock vibe. Adam and Jack are in their element, forging an electric connection with the crowd. And Jack, manning the drums, is nothing short of a rhythmic beast. His relentless pursuit of perfection is a sight to behold—his hands a mesmerizing blur, hammering the skins with a precision that’s both savage and sublime. Fast? No, he’s lightning-fast, a whirlwind of beats that leaves the crowd breathless and begging for more.

..an electrifying cocktail of raw passion and gritty edge"

The lyrics to the songs tonight are typically relatable—anger, the anger that surely everyone has felt of being conflicted with yourself, angry at yourself for not being able to make a decision, or knowing something’s wrong even though it feels right. That cognitive dissonance is so universal in its hold on us human beings.

Among the stunningly vast set, ‘Infinite Pleasure’ emerges as the clear standout. The fans, already dialed into every note, sing back with an intensity that borders on fanaticism. Their raucous applause is a thunderous echo of the band’s raw, creative power. Tonight’s show by The Pale White wasn’t just some bland blend of Magnolia and Elephant’s Breath—it was an electrifying cocktail of raw passion and gritty edge. A fusion of classic and alternative rock, spiked with a dose of Geordie grunge. This was more than a performance; it was a roaring testament to their undeniable prowess. A Tyneside triumph!

https://www.facebook.com/thepalewhite

https://www.facebook.com/BerriesBand

https://www.facebook.com/ToughCookieLand

Tough Cookie and Berries supported The Pale White at The Garage – Dec 8^th 2023

Words and photography Copyright of 1st 3 Magazine

Not to be reproduced, cropped or altered without prior permission*.

*Social media use only for persons depicted, event organisers and venue.

Rosie Frater-Taylor – Taking Flight

14th December 2023

Music News

British singer and virtuoso guitarist Rosie Frater-Taylor has announced ‘Heartbeat’, the latest single to be taken from her anticipated forthcoming studio album Featherweight.

Featherweight is due for release on Cooking Vinyl on February 9^th 2024 (available for pre-order HERE). A cathartic and emotional alt pop-rock tune, Heartbeat explores feelings of anxiety and insecurity and is out now.

Rosie Frater Taylor:
“Heartbeat was born at the guitar, harking back to some of my longer-term muses: Joni, Rickie Lee Jones, James Taylor, Joan Armatrading. The neo-soul temperament of the drums and bass creates the generational link for me, the ‘modern-day’ Joni Mitchell vibes I’m going for and inclusion of some of my other R&B/soul influences like Lewis Taylor, John Mayer, Emily King, Jamie Woon.

The harmonic palette was different for this track. I’m a long-term fan of the John Mayer live album ‘where the light is’, some of the best trio vibes going – he does a very courageous solo version of ‘Neon’ from his debut album ‘Room For Squares’ (banger) tuning the low E string to drop C. Heartbeat does the same and the chords you get from doing that are so so crazy. I seek out chords that tug at the heart strings and often already have a melody contained within them that inspires the vocal(s), right hand picking pattern, arrangement, additional guitar layers and so on.”

Featherweight will be available on CD, limited edition gold vinyl, black vinyl and via all digital platforms from February 9th 2024.

Heartbeat is the third track to be released from Frater-Taylor’s forthcoming album Featherweight, the follow-up to 2021’s Bloom, which garnered in excess of 3 million streams. Featherweight marks a stylistic shift and presents a unique style that showcases the 24-year-old’s ability to intertwine hard-hitting lyrical ideas with glistening melodies, consummate guitar playing and unpredictable textural contrasts.

2024 UK HEADLINE TOUR

Feb 8 – London, Rough Trade West (unplugged performance + signing)

Feb 9 – Bristol, Louisiana

Feb 13 – Leeds, Book Club

Feb 15 – Glasgow, Rum Shack

Feb 16 – Manchester, Deaf Institute

Feb 17 – London, Omeara

Tickets for Rosie’s UK Headline tour are on sale now and available at

www.rosiefratertaylor.com/shows

SKINNY LISTER – Hear Them Roar

14th December 2023

Music News

Skinny Lister are excited to release their sixth studio LP titled ‘Shanty Punk’, out now via Xtra Mile Recordings.

The album announcement is coupled with the unveiling of its leading single, “Company of the Bar”, which is available to hear now: https://orcd.co/companyofthebar

A song built for the road and the endless adventures it can promise, “Company Of The Bar”, fuses three themes that have loomed large throughout Skinny Lister’s output: drinking, traveling, and the sea. Combining these into one driving, no-nonsense celebration of the virtues of hanging out down the pub with mates and loved ones; it’s a barnstorming addition to the Skinny catalogue and one that pines to be heard bellowed out at your local gig haunt. As Dan Heptinstall says:

“It’s a simple sentiment, but one that is at the heart of the Skinny Lister philosophy. This is a song that has been built for the rugged road, and we can’t wait to hear it belted back at us on our upcoming US and UK Tours later this year!”

The track is the leading single to be cut from ‘Shanty Punk’, Skinny Lister’s sixth long-player; a concept album that’s all about, well, Skinny Lister. As Dan explains:

“Shanty Punk is our concept album – and the concept is Skinny Lister. It’s a pure distillation of what makes Skinny Lister tick, and perhaps a collection of songs that leans further into our folky routes than we’ve ventured in some years. It felt to us like it was time to touch base and celebrate the essence of the band, while at the same time – giving it a fresh and dynamic feel.”

Arriving as the follow-up to 2021’s ‘A Matter of Life & Love’, a freewheeling record that paid homage to all the greatest things in life, ‘Shanty Punk’ goes one further with a riotous reflection upon the journey that has defined Skinny Lister as a band.

A record full of drunken tales that beg to be told – like that time frontman Daniel Heptinstall got in above his head in an arm-wrestling competition in Dresden (“Arm Wrestling In Dresden”) and the pickle the band found themselves in after hiring the wrong driver for a US Tour (“Pittsburgh Punch Up”). Elsewhere, the LP features “Down On The Barrier,” an arena-sized ripper that finds Skinny Lister worshiping at the immortal altar of live music via pogo-primed percussion, Pogues-y punk hooks, and a chorus that demands to be roared-out loud and proud.

There’s of course also room for the obligatory poignant moment or two as well, such as the Lorna Heptinstall-led “Mantra” and album closer “Broken, Bruised & Battered.” Even Party George – Lorna & Max’s dad, who’s become a cult legend amongst Skinny fans – makes an appearance, singing his self-penned “William Harker.” It’s yet another tale that unashamedly takes its inspiration from the English public house, and a song that George has often been found singing up on stage with the band over the years. There’s also a down the line vocal and stomp, shanty-style track in the form of “13 Miles.”

Written and recorded by Skinny Lister, mixed by Patrick Phillips and Daniel Heptinstall, the album was given its mastering polish at the iconic Abbey Road Studios by Frank Arkwright.

‘Shanty Punk’ track listing:

Haul & Bale

Unto The Breach

Company Of The Bar

Mantra

13 Miles

Down On The Barrier

Arm Wrestling In Dresden

Pittsburgh Punch Up

Forge On George

William Harker

Broken, Bruised & Battered

With its album artwork a swirling collage of imagery that has become synonymous with the band since their inception in 2009 – with flagons, red shoes, boots and land rovers all present and correct – the cover of ‘Shanty Punk’ makes it clear from the get-go that this is very much the definitive Skinny Lister album. A glorious mix of chest-thumping anthems, shanty sing-a-longs and folk/punk classics born to be heard live, it’s a full-blooded and frenzied glimpse into the very heart and soul of Skinny Lister, and a thriving statement of just what continues to make these long-standing folk-punk treasures tick.

Taking ‘Shanty Punk’ out to the masses this Winter, the quintet will be putting it to the test with an extensive run of UK shows throughout November and December. With a reputation for one of the most uplifting and exhilarating shows in the biz, the full list of dates can be found below:

SKINNY LISTER – UK TOUR 2023

NOVEMBER

~~22 LIVERPOOL O2 Academy 2~~

~~23 CARLISLE The Brickyard~~

~~24 GLASGOW King Tuts~~

~~25 BELFAST Voodoo~~

~~26 DUBLIN Grand Social~~

~~30 NORWICH Arts Centre~~

DECEMBER

~~01 HULL Social~~

~~02 STOCKTON Ku Club~~

~~03 SHEFFIELD Leadmill~~

~~08 SOUTHAMPTON Engine Rooms~~

~~09 PLYMOUTH The Depo~~

~~10 SWANSEA Sin City~~

14 BRISTOL The Fleece

15 BRIGHTON Chalk

16 LONDON Lafayette

Tickets for all shows are on sale now HERE

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

Vokonis – We Hear Howling Stars And Interstellar Monks

13th December 2023

Mainly Metal

In the kaleidoscopic realm of music, a fresh cosmic alignment has emerged, as Majestic Mountain Records, with their oracle-like foresight, have embraced the Swedish prog-sludge wizards, Vokonis.

This band, a swirling vortex of musical alchemy, is gearing up to launch their fifth auditory odyssey into the unknown, with its title still cloaked in mystery, set to unfurl its sonic tapestry in the early days of next year.

The band, tripping on their euphoric synergy with Majestic Mountain Records, are buzzing with anticipation.

“We’re so happy to be part of Majestic Mountain Records.” Says the band. “They share our vision of high-quality music with equally high-quality releases. We can’t wait for what the future holds with them.”

Before this full-length spectacle descends, Vokonis will tantalize the universe with a three-track EP, “Exist Within Light,” dropping into our consciousness on October 27th. This EP is not just a collection of songs, but a portal to progressive realms, building upon the cosmic journey they embarked upon with their 2019 revelation, “Grasping Time.”

Enter Hedvig Modig, the new guitarist, melding her cosmic strings with the existing triad of Simona Ohlsson (guitar/vocals), Sven Lindsten (drums), and Oscar Johannesson (bass). This expanded quartet is not just a band; they are celestial architects, weaving together monumental riffs that could move mountains, percussion that pounds with the heart of the universe, all while intertwining mesmerizing prog textures. Their vocals are a spectrum in themselves, ranging from the gritty howls of a star being born to the soothing chants of interstellar monks. In short, Vokonis is not just playing music; they’re conjuring universes within our ears.

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialVokonis
https://www.instagram.com/vokonisofficial
https://vokonis.bandcamp.com

FREYA BEER – A Devil-May-Care Christmas

13th December 2023

CHRISTMAS STUFF, Music News

Goth-pop priestess – FREYA BEER – has announced a string of UK live dates this November/December.

The news arrives as she prepares to release a brand new single entitled “Write Her Off (WHO)”, which she will be airing at the shows.

A seductive, scathing alt-pop clash, it finds Freya Beer continuing her stellar trajectory from the heart of darkness. Arriving this November, the new single was recorded in London with Paul Burnley at The Social and Jack O’Hea at FOLD Studios. The track also sees Freya working with long-time collaborators Dave Fidler and Ray Mitchell who undertook mixing duties at The Fuse in Manchester.

Paying homage to the feelings of emptiness that come along with an unrequited attraction, Freya explains of the story behind the new release

“”Write Her Off (WHO)” is a song about going after your crush and the feeling of rejection because they don’t feel any connection to you. You come to the realisation you should dismiss the love — almost as though you have to “write them off” to move on”.

Hailed as a “raw and thrilling talent”, Freya Beer is a singer-songwriter from West London. Inspired by art, literature, alternative fashion and music, Freya distils her disparate influences through a gothic soul and devil-may-care spirit that dares to dream in the darkness.

Having sparked a wave of attention from the get-go with her self-released debut single “Bike Boy”’ and follow-up “Six Months” in 2018, Freya earned a BBC Introducing Live Lounge Session and a feature on Tom Robinson’s BBC Radio 6 Music show — and so the roller coaster began.

With the wind in her sails, Freya launched her own label Sisterhood Records in 2019 as a vehicle to further her creativity. In 2020, she released the single “Dear Sweet Rosie” with the track drumming up further support from BBC 6 Music as well as a live session on Marc Riley’s show (which was then highlighted as one of his “Best of the Year” that December). Renowned music critic John Robb also hailed her as ‘New Artist of the Day’ on his Louder Than War site and predicted a Mercury Prize in years to come.

Revealing her many shades with a series of exquisite lockdown cover versions, Freya bookended 2020 with the acclaimed single “Arms Open Wide”, which was placed in PRS for Music’s Top 20 songs of the year. Discovering new audiences and in-turn more about herself as an artist, Freya released her debut album ‘Beast’ in October 2021 to unanimous fanfare.

In Spring this year Freya shared a brand new AA-side single “Fantasy” // “Galore”, and she has continued to build up her loyal live following with headline shows in London, a key slot at Latitude Festival, a solo support run with Honeyblood and more under her belt across 2023. She also made her US live debut with a full-band show in New York City earlier this year.

Having attracted praise from a range of musical tastemakers across her career to-date, Freya recently launched her own radio show ‘Freya’s Gothic Disco’ on Islington Radio. She was also featured in Time Out’s special Goth-themed issue for Halloween 2023.

With “Write Her Off (WHO)” set to land this November, Freya will be playing headline shows in Winchester, Manchester and London across the Winter. Find full dates and details below.

FREYA BEER

NEW SINGLE: “WRITE HER OFF (WHO)” – COMING THIS NOVEMBER

FREYA BEER UK LIVE DATES 2023

NOVEMBER

16 WINCHESTER The Railway Inn

18 MANCHESTER The Castle Hotel

DECEMBER

19 LONDON The Victoria Dalston

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

DEKKER – (LIVE REVIEW) What’s Behind The Mask?

12th December 2023

Music News, Music Reviews

Under the brim of his hat, one might find not just a head, but a labyrinth of the unconscious, where repressed desires and unspoken thoughts intertwine, revealing the complex tapestry of the human psyche.

1st 3 are dispatched to the Lexington to blow the lid off Dekker’s ID, or rather what’s hidden beneath his hat…

Sarah and Toby, two of the four band members of Low Girl, quietly take the stage tonight and start their entrancing set with slowly strummed chords and a heartbeat drum rhythm. This evolves into rhythmic fingerpicking as Sarah begins to sing. Initially soft, almost sotto voce, with gentle consonants and rounded vowels, her delivery grows more confident with each song. The sound is mesmerizing, with repetitive, resonant rhythms and a serious, sensitive mood. Toby, confidently playing complex harmonic structures on the keys, adds depth. The use of triplets brings texture and emotional richness to the enchanting opening.

The performance was reminiscent of one of those old Notting Hill happenings"

Sarah’s vocals, beautiful, sonorous, and sweet, blend perfectly with the soft, repeated chords in the background. Skillfully executed guitar solos crescendo to a discordant finale, interspersed with a cappella sections that showcase Sarah’s gentle, pure, and evocative tone, which grows richer and more dynamically varied as she warms up.

Musically and collaboratively, Sarah remains focused while Toby is constantly looking and checking, aiming for communication and cohesion. Their combined sound is fluid, intense, and moving, highlighting Sarah’s perfect tuning and Toby’s skilled musical orchestration, especially evident in “Blessing.”

The performance was reminiscent of one of those old Notting Hill happenings; you know the kind. The sort of little event where you might find Marc Bolan surrounded by incense sticks and singing of a Chateau In Virginia Waters, whilst Steve Peregrine Took beats out a rhythm on the bongos or gently taps the pixiephone.

We at 1st 3 Magazine were captivated by their ethereal yet gutsy, heartfelt performance"

Illuminated by a warm, amber glow, Sarah introduces a new song that Toby has had only a few days to learn. Here, Sarah demonstrates the powerful range of her voice, from fortissimo to subito piano. Time signature changes, suspended and diminished chords, and a flurry of repeated semi-quavers bring their highly enjoyable set to a close.

Post-show, Sarah shares that songwriting and performing are ways for her to process difficult experiences. Having had a tough year, she’s learning to be more optimistic. Having met at university, they now live together and hold a special affection for The Lexington, with Sarah calling it her ‘favourite’ venue.

We at 1st 3 Magazine were captivated by their ethereal yet gutsy, heartfelt performance tonight. Their introspective energy, combined with beautiful harmonies and melodies, was expertly and humbly shared with us, making for a truly enjoyable listening experience.

With a shout out of “I’m stoked for this show!” Dekker starts his hugely enjoyable set with a high-pitched exultation and a lively shaking of maracas…

Kicking off with “I Think” and “The Love,” he contemplates—oh so profoundly—the elusive, indecipherable essence of love. His audience, comfortably mellow and visibly content, is treated to an unexpectedly long playlist. Songs like “Small Wins,” “Tethered Wrapped Around,” and “Back and Forth” flow seamlessly, each one a little showcase of his hopeful, personal, and oh-so-lyrical style.

It's almost as if Dekker is serenading himself with his thought-provoking, rhythmically pleasing tunes"

Then comes “Hero Myth,” continuing the serene vibe with shakers, a kick drum, and snare, blending in some ethereal whispers. It’s all about the inner turmoil of battling self-doubt while maintaining a facade for the world—quite the existential crisis, right?

It’s almost as if Dekker is serenading himself with his thought-provoking, rhythmically pleasing tunes, and we’re just there for the ride. And about that ever-present hat hiding his face? Maybe it’s a hint that he really is singing more for himself than us. After all, who needs facial expressions and eye contact in live performances? That’s so mainstream. Instead, Dekker chooses to communicate through the resonance, repetition, and relational experiences of his songs, passionately belted out.

As Dekker's set winds down, we are content, having seen through the hat"

By this point, the Lexington is packed; the crowd is totally into it. They truly are his people—dancing, smiling, nodding in massive appreciation of Dekker’s melodious, harmonious tunes.

‘Maybe October’ begins with its simple, warm chords and impressive percussive beats, hinting at a rich optimism for change and better times ahead.

As Dekker’s set winds down, we are content, having seen through the hat—the facade or superficial aspects of performance—to the genuine artistry beneath. We’re left reflecting on the rich complexity of his music: a woven tapestry of percussion, melody, and lyrics, all conveying messages of hope, love, and friendliness. It’s been a journey of choosing a path and steadfastly walking it, offering a hypnotic, cathartic, and ultimately enlightening and rejuvenating musical experience.

https://www.facebook.com/Dekker.Brookln

https://www.facebook.com/lowgirllowgirl

DEKKER played The Lexington, Islington onNovember 19th 2023

Support from LOW GIRL

Words and photography Copyright of 1st 3 Magazine

Not to be reproduced, cropped or altered without prior permission*.

*Social media use only for persons depicted, event organisers and venue.

Blowfuse – Totally Committed

12th December 2023

Music News

Blowfuse are releasing a new single “Move On” on December 15th.

Influenced by 80’s and 90’s punk rock waves and the skateboard lifestyle, Blowfuse crafts a style all its own, mixing the aggressiveness of hardcore punk, the catchy melodies of 90’s punk rock, the powerful classic rock riffs, with acidic and paranoid lyrics.

The new single “Move On” is the first of the new album which will be out in 2024! “Move On is a call to action and change. Its direct message conveys a sense of empowerment and the necessity of freeing oneself from the past to find a new direction in life.”, says singer Oscar Puig. The detrimental habit of complaining and self-pitying won’t do anything but increase frustration. Only by accepting reality and taking responsibility can you navigate towards a new direction.

Pre-save here: https://bfan.link/blowfuse-move-on

“Move On” will be out digitally on December 15, being presented by SBÄM, HFMN Crew, Epidemic Records and Infected Records.

https://www.facebook.com/blowfuse

Solitary Sabred – Furious Epic Metal

12th December 2023

Mainly Metal

Solitary Sabred, the Cypriot heavy metal warlords return with another killer concept album titled “Temple of the Serpent”.

The album chronicles a journey to the lands of demonic djinns and undead sorcerers, and where Solitary Sabred explore the fall of the Akkad Empire over ten blistering tracks of furious epic metal.

Solitary Sabred have been an active band since the early 00’s and have released three full-length albums to date, including their critically acclaimed second and third albums, “Redemption Through Force” and “By fire & Brimstone”, which have been repressed numerous times both on cd and vinyl.

The Cypriots have also been active on the live front, appearing alongside legends such as Omen, Manilla Road, Helstar, Jag Panzer, Vicious Rumors, Metal Church, Heir Aparent etc, as well as contemporary acts such as Sabaton, Enforcer, Three Tremors, Ashes of Ares and many more, both in Cyprus and abroad, and are currently working on a full European tour to promote “Temple of the Serpent” live early next year.

Line-up:
Petros “Asgardlord” Leptos – Vocals
Demetris “Spartacus” Demetriou – Guitars
Nikolas “Sprits” Moutafis – Guitars
George “Stainlesz” Papaioannou – Bass
Fotis “Defiler” Mountouris – Drums

https://www.facebook.com/sabredmetal

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Monthly Archives: December 2023

The Sweetchunks Band – All Aboard

Legendary South-Coast Comedy Folk Band releases beautiful festive track ‘Come Back’ a tribute to Lemmy!

Dead Reynolds – Whipping Up A Storm

Hailing from East Anglia, mixing alternative rock, and pop punk with anthemic melodies and unexpected twists to give a stadium feel show is what Dead Reynolds does!

Howay man! AN evening of Geordie Delight and soggy pants awaits…

Rosie Frater-Taylor – Taking Flight

British singer and virtuoso guitarist Rosie Frater-Taylor has announced ‘Heartbeat’, the latest single to be taken from her anticipated forthcoming studio album Featherweight.

SKINNY LISTER – Hear Them Roar

Skinny Lister are excited to release their sixth studio LP titled ‘Shanty Punk’, out now via Xtra Mile Recordings.

Vokonis – We Hear Howling Stars And Interstellar Monks

In the kaleidoscopic realm of music, a fresh cosmic alignment has emerged, as Majestic Mountain Records, with their oracle-like foresight, have embraced the Swedish prog-sludge wizards, Vokonis.

FREYA BEER – A Devil-May-Care Christmas

Goth-pop priestess – FREYA BEER – has announced a string of UK live dates this November/December.

DEKKER – (LIVE REVIEW) What’s Behind The Mask?

Under the brim of his hat, one might find not just a head, but a labyrinth of the unconscious, where repressed desires and unspoken thoughts intertwine, revealing the complex tapestry of the human psyche.

Blowfuse – Totally Committed

Blowfuse are releasing a new single “Move On” on December 15th.

Solitary Sabred – Furious Epic Metal

Solitary Sabred, the Cypriot heavy metal warlords return with another killer concept album titled “Temple of the Serpent”.

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