Category: Music Reviews

Klonk – Kelly’s Good Foot

Klonk know exactly how to get their listeners moving, and it’s impossible not to dance along to their groove-filled tracks. Their sound is instantly recognizable, thanks to their fearless blending of genres, which creates a playful and energetic listening experience. The track ‘Kelly’s Good Foot’ perfectly showcases this, making you want to dance, laugh, and simply have fun. With its infectious 90s-inspired hip-hop vibe, it evokes a sense of nostalgia while still feeling fresh and modern. Drawing on influences from legends like James Brown, Klonk layer lively strings over a powerhouse rhythm section, producing a sound that’s both uplifting and irresistible. The song’s energy is contagious, making it impossible not to feel the joy and movement it inspires. Whether you’re starting your day or looking to lift your mood, ‘Kelly’s Good Foot’ is the ultimate pick-me-up — a celebration of rhythm, fun, and pure musicality that leaves listeners grinning and tapping their feet long after it ends.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/klonkmusic

Rillington Place – Lament

Rillington Place are a five piece alternative metal band who released their debut EP titled ‘Lost in the Storm’ back in 2024. Residing in Dewsbury, the band are heavily involved in the live music scene in Yorkshire and are even a part of the Dewsbury Music Foundation. They are a unique band not only because of their musical style but because the majority of them are family. 

Their track ‘Lament’ follows in the footsteps of iconic influences like Deftones and Nirvana, channeling the raw intensity and emotional depth that defined 90s grunge while carving out a sound uniquely their own. The song tackles the theme of bipolar disorder, drawing from personal experience to deliver a hauntingly authentic narrative that resonates with listeners. Gloomy, textured guitars weave seamlessly with the rasp of the lead vocals, creating a soundscape that is both visceral and immersive. As the track builds, it culminates in a striking finale where a commanding drum section locks in with a powerful guitar riff, leaving a lasting impression of intensity and skill. ‘Lament’ not only showcases Rillington Place’s musical prowess but also solidifies their identity as a band unafraid to confront heavy subjects with artistry and conviction. This track marks them as a force to be reckoned with in the contemporary rock scene, proving they can balance emotional vulnerability with hard-hitting sonic impact.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/rillington_place

Iceyslurkin – Spiders Feat. Queen Jolene (Prod. Metlast)

Blending an iconic trap beat with raw and emotional vocals really shows off Iceyslurkin’s style. Her ability to tell a story is shown off in their track ‘Spiders Featuring Queen Jolene (Prod. Metlast)’. The raw, emotional vocals portray their own personal struggle with mental health that is relatable to their audience. The echo-like vocal production on the track emphasises the uncertainty of what is real conveyed in the lyrics. 

Iceyslurkin explores the challenges of battling one’s own mind, delving into the mental and emotional toll it can take on the body. Yet, despite these heavy themes, the track manages to radiate a sense of hope and resilience, showcasing the artist’s ability to translate personal struggle into musical brilliance. The production blends signature icewave textures with inventive melodic elements, giving the genre a refreshing, airy quality that feels like a deep breath of fresh air. Lush synths, ethereal vocals, and thoughtful pacing combine to create an immersive listening experience, proving that even when confronting darkness, music can illuminate a path toward clarity. Overall, the track not only reinforces Iceyslurkin’s unique voice within the icewave scene but also pushes the genre forward, offering listeners both catharsis and inspiration.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/iceyslurkin

Eskar – Kaiju

Eskar is an independent hip-hop artist from Huddersfield, UK. He produces pure rap tracks that flow like a river with lyrics that keep you guessing. On his track ‘Kaiju’ he features rap artist, Tonedeff. Eskar says “It was a dream coming true working with Tonedeff, having grown up with his music. This one really puts into perspective how far I have come as an artist.” In the local music industry he has made a name for himself for being an impressive rap artist who writes about real and raw topics without sugar-coating.

The track has a groovy bassline that can get anybody moving, laying down a foundation that feels both raw and irresistible. Beyond the rhythm, the lyrics act as an ode to confidence — sharp, self-assured, and delivered with conviction. Together, they create a track that doesn’t just demand attention on the dancefloor, but also resonates as a statement of attitude and individuality. The flow of the vocals is immensely impressive and makes the track sound all the more dynamic.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/Eskar_Music

Liam Smyth – Kinda

Liam Smyth has endured struggle after struggle and still made his mark in the music industry. He was born with only 2 fingers on his right hand but, through great resilience became a self taught guitarist, and a fine one too! His music is an ode to this resilience and the struggle that can come along with it. Now, he “works for the local Kirklees substance misuse service helping others to reach their recovery goals.” 

His song ‘Kinda’ is written from the perspective of his wife and “what it must have been like trying to love someone in active addiction and struggling with mental health issues.” The lyricism in this track shows the paradox that comes with loving someone who is struggling themselves. It emphasises the internal battle of looking after yourself whilst also trying to love someone else. Listening to ‘Kinda’ makes you feel connected and able to emphasise whether you have experienced it personally or not. The classic indie vibes of this song gives it such a contradiction to the lyricism with the raw acoustic guitar. The song makes you feel all kinds of emotions that leave you curious to find out more and that’s exactly what Liam Smyth does so well.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/Liamsmythmusic

Kilo_igrft – SMOOTH

Kilo_igrft’s iconic sax sound mixed with raw stripped back vocals is what makes his music unique. His track ‘SMOOTH’ is a prime example of this. The track has no drums which pulls all the focus to the lyrics. The production also emphasises the lyrics beautifully to allow them to burst through and have the effect that was intended.

Kilo_igrft is incredibly authentic with his lyricism, and ‘SMOOTH’ is a perfect reflection of that honesty. The track dives deep into his thought process, unpacking the way he views the world and the emotions that come with it. What makes it stand out is how clearly his vision comes through — he’s unafraid to show vulnerability, which makes it easy for listeners to form a genuine connection with the music. Sonically, the production matches the theme effortlessly; the instrumental flows with an understated elegance, and the groove gives the track a natural, easygoing energy. True to its name, ‘SMOOTH’ glides from start to finish, leaving an impression that’s both reflective and undeniably captivating.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/igraft_life/

Urban Rift – Johnny Go

Ever wanted to time travel back to the 1950s where rock n roll ruled over the music scene. Urban Rift’s track ‘Johnny Go’ does just that! The strong guitars and prominent hi-hats give the song the dynamic range that defines the classic rock n roll genre. Residing in the West Yorkshire area, Urban Rift show their heritage through their vocals as you can really hear the northern soul punching through. 

Released as a single in 2024, ‘Johnny Go’ tells the story of a reckless bad boy who leaves chaos in his wake everywhere he turns. The track captures that spirit of rebellion with an infectious indie edge, echoing the swagger and grit of bands like Arctic Monkeys while still carving out its own identity. Driving guitar riffs and a blistering solo push the song forward, while the pounding drums add urgency and raw energy. Lyrically, its nonconformist theme celebrates individuality and defiance, making it resonate with listeners who crave music that pushes back against the norm. Bold, brash, and irresistibly catchy, ‘Johnny Go’ is the kind of track that not only entertains but also expands your playlist with something fresh and rebellious.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/urbanriftband

Neo 21 – Enthralled

Based in Bradford, Neo 21 is an Afrofusion artist who gets the party going with his music. Pulling from his Nigerian heritage he creates music about ambition and self-belief that inspires his listeners. His track ‘Enthralled’ has a classic R&B sound filled with themes of lust and desire. The track locks into an infectious groove that’s impossible to ignore. This adds to the up-beat summer vibe that uplifts instantly. 

The track is taken from his most recent EP titled Teriqus, a project that explores a bold fusion of genres while putting his cultural identity at the forefront. Across the EP, he weaves melodic rap with the infectious rhythms of classic Afrobeats, creating a sound that feels both contemporary and rooted in tradition. What makes it stand out is not just the sonic blend, but the depth of storytelling,  his lyrics are vivid and personal, painting pictures that allow listeners to step into his world. The result is a collection of songs that are emotionally resonant and musically expansive, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his commitment to authenticity.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/Neo21ne

LOMENS – Unplug the Earth

West Yorkshire’s Lomens are quickly becoming a standout force in the region’s punk rock scene. Their latest track, “Unplug the Earth,” is a bold statement that refuses to be boxed into one genre. Blending the haze of shoegaze with indie’s melodic edge, the band crafts a sound that feels both raw and expansive. 

At the forefront are raspy, commanding vocals that cut through the mix, driving home themes of resistance and liberation with raw intensity. Lyrically, the track leans heavily into metaphor, envisioning an ‘unplugged world’ as a way to grapple with feelings of powerlessness, societal pressure, and personal struggle. The instrumentation complements this urgency perfectly — jagged guitar riffs clash with punchy drums, creating a sonic landscape that feels both chaotic and deliberate. The song’s cathartic energy invites listeners to not just hear, but feel every note and lyric, turning frustration and rebellion into a shared experience. In doing so, it cements Lomens as a band unafraid to push boundaries, blending introspection with punk’s unapologetic, rebellious heart, and delivering a track that resonates long after the final chord fades.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/Lomensuk

Jordan Higo – In My Absence

Jordan Higo, a Huddersfield native, has built a strong presence performing live at numerous venues around the area, gradually establishing himself as a compelling new voice in the music scene. His signature style comes to life on the track ‘In My Absence,’ where he masterfully blends classic R&B with contemporary pop, creating a sound that feels both familiar and refreshingly modern. The track exudes a lustful, emotive energy, exploring desire and longing with a vulnerability that draws listeners in. Jordan’s storytelling shines through every lyric, painting vivid pictures of love, absence, and emotional complexity. Complementing this is the dreamy, atmospheric production, which sets the perfect mood and enhances the track’s intimate vibe. ‘In My Absence’ is not just a song; it’s an ode to confidence, desire, and artistry — a captivating introduction that leaves listeners wanting more and firmly positions Jordan Higo as an artist to watch.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/jordanhigo