Music Reviews – Page 4

Cuckoo – Estate

ByKirklees Most WantedInMusic ReviewsOn03/03/202503/03/2025

Batley-based rapper Cuckoo, a self-taught artist, brings a fresh perspective to the local hip-hop scene. Crafting his music entirely from his bedroom, he channels a deep passion and determination, drawing inspiration from hip-hop legends like Eminem, 2Pac, and Biggie Smalls.

Cuckoo distinguishes himself by injecting vibrancy and humor into his music and visuals. His track “Estate,” accompanied by a community-driven music video filmed on the Wilton estate, reflects this approach. Instead of the typical dark and serious tone often associated with local rap, Cuckoo delivers bouncy, lighthearted, and sometimes comedic tracks.

“Estate” provides a glimpse into life on a council estate, but with a twist. Rather than focusing on the hardships, Cuckoo uses humor to highlight the everyday experiences, offering a relatable and often funny take on a topic that’s often portrayed negatively. He is currently working on his debut album “Orpheus.”

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/cuckoo_cs/

The Dead Poet – The Letter

ByKirklees Most WantedInMusic ReviewsOn03/03/202503/09/2025

Huddersfield’s The Dead Poet, Spencer Lee Wilson, crafts poignant singer-songwriter music, exploring the depths of human experience through acoustic melodies and evocative lyrics.

Wilson’s voice, a blend of raw emotion and vulnerability, draws listeners into his world. His songwriting, rich in storytelling, delves into themes of love, loss, hope, and nostalgia, capturing the delicate balance between joy and sorrow. His “rough around the edges” acoustic guitar playing complements his vocals, adding an authentic and unfiltered layer to his music.

“The Letter” serves as a poignant reminder to seize opportunities and avoid regret. The song reflects on missed chances, with lyrics like “Did you ever realise to swim out in the ocean, was an option as you daydreamed in the shallows,” highlighting the tendency to let life drift by passively. It’s a self-reflective piece, encouraging listeners to embrace the present and avoid the “what ifs” of the future.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/deadpoetep/

Nick Ryder – She Said

ByKirklees Most WantedInMusic ReviewsOn03/03/202503/03/2025

Nick Ryder and his band, emerged from the Huddersfield music scene in 2024, is crafting accessible songs and drawing inspiration from a rich tapestry of musical influences. From the classic melodies of The Beatles and Elvis Costello to the energy of Brit-pop and the structure of classical music, their sound is designed to resonate with first-time listeners.

Their debut single, “She Said,” is a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering bond between a mother and son. The song explores the theme of unconditional love, capturing the essence of a mother’s devotion through relatable lyrics and memorable melodies.

Project Charlie – Needles and Pins

ByKirklees Most WantedInMusic ReviewsOn03/03/202503/03/2025

Project Charlie, a Holmfirth/Halifax-based power pop band, formed in June 2024, brings a seasoned perspective to their music. Jon, Charlotte, and Dan, all experienced musicians, balance the demands of adult life with their passion for creating original songs.

Having established themselves locally with acoustic covers, they are now focused on their original material, with an EP planned for later this year. “Needles and Pins,” their latest track, is a reflection on the fragile nature of relationships. It explores the subtle erosion caused by everyday irritations, the “needles and pins” that accumulate over time. Yet, beneath the surface of these annoyances lies a deeper philosophical question: how well can we truly know another person, and what does it mean to be known? The song suggests that intimacy, while comforting, can also be a double-edged sword, revealing not only our strengths but also our vulnerabilities.

Project Charlie’s music, with its blend of catchy melodies and insightful lyrics, offers a relatable and thought-provoking listen. Their determination to create meaningful music, even amidst the challenges of everyday life, shines through in “Needles and Pins.” & positions them as a new band to watch in the local music scene.

For more info: – https://www.instagram.com/project_charlie_band

Cezza Sean – New Flex

ByKirklees Most WantedInMusic ReviewsOn03/03/202503/03/2025

Cezza Sean, a Huddersfield-based artist, crafts a unique sonic alchemy, transforming personal experiences into vibrant and uplifting music. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources like Little Simz, OutKast, and FR33 SOL, he creates a sound that bridges the gap between old-school soul, reggae, and hip-hop, all while infused with a contemporary and timeless production style.

Cezza Sean’s music is deeply spiritual & philosophical, incorporating elements of Far Eastern philosophy through both his message and his soundscapes. He believes in the power of music to uplift and inspire, creating a space for listeners to connect with their inner selves.

“New Flex” embodies this ethos. The track challenges the traditional notions of “flexing” material possessions, instead advocating for health and wellness as the ultimate display of strength. Cezza Sean emphasizes the fleeting nature of material goods, highlighting that true fulfillment comes from nurturing one’s mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. “New Flex” promotes a shift in perspective, urging listeners to prioritize their health as the greatest flex of all.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/cezzasean/

Bone Wars – Terrible Lizards

ByKirklees Most WantedInMusic ReviewsOn03/03/202503/03/2025

Huddersfield’s Bone Wars, a psych-rock band, make music inspired by prehistoric creatures. They create songs with catchy tunes and long, free-flowing instrumental parts.

The band brings together different musical styles: Sully Evans’ funky bass lines, Ben Wallbanks’ (from Knuckle) strong drumming, Steven Beever’s (from Nu-Popes, Land Sharks) layered keyboards, and Leo Brazil’s unique songwriting.

Their first song, “Terrible Lizards,” isn’t just a tune; it’s a musical story about where the word “dinosaur” comes from. They were inspired by how scientist Richard Owen named them back in 1841. The song tries to capture the feeling of wonder and size that Owen wanted people to have, not just the idea of scary monsters. Their sound mixes old-school psychedelic music with new, experimental sounds, and adds a touch of funk and world music for a really enthralling listening.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/bonewarsmusic

Ruby Wood – My Favourite Song

ByLillie-Apple ChartersInMusic ReviewsOn31/01/202531/01/2025

Ruby Wood’s “My Favourite Song” is exactly that, my new favourite song.

Described by Wood to be a love letter to music, “My Favourite Song” unearths the connection between a person and the music that brings them comfort. Not only does it have an irresistible groove, but has such a level of danceability that you can’t help but put on repeat. This song is the perfect mix of intimacy and summertime R&B, captivating you from the second it starts until the saxophone gracefully fades out at the end.

The third track from Wood’s solo debut EP “Sincerely”, “My Favourite Song” is one of five beautifully written songs. This EP covers subjects such as letting go and pouring love into manifestation and growth, as well as watching daughters grow into powerful women – a beautiful and important sentiment supported by the love received by Jamie Cullum, Craig Charles and various other radio shows since the tracks release in 2023.

Originally from Huddersfield, Ruby Wood has been all around the world! Any fans of Bryson Tiller will be familiar with Wood’s mesmerising vocals after her appearance on “Right My Wrongs”, Tiller’s 4 x Platinum Winning hit from his 2015 album TRAPSOUL and its subsequent sell-out shows at Wembley Arena, Manchester Victoria Warehouse and Manchester Apollo. Although, this wasn’t Wood’s first collaboration or live performance. In fact, she has many collaborations including the likes of Alfa Mist and Krept & Konan, has toured with Bonobo and Nubiyan Twist and continues to grace the luckiest audiences alongside Nightmares On Wax, Abstract Orchestra and under her own name at venues such as The Great Escape and Cross The Tracks.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/rubywoodmusic/

Mick Rawlings – Midnight Drive

ByKirklees Most WantedInMusic ReviewsOn31/01/202531/01/2025

Mick Rawlings channels his passion for songwriting and performance into his country rock sound. A skilled drummer and rhythm guitarist with extensive live experience, Mick describes songwriting as his “happy place,” and that joy translates into his music.

“Midnight Drive” captures the feeling of escaping troubles with a late-night drive. The song explores themes of depression and isolation, but ultimately offers a message of hope and resilience as the protagonist finds support and self-acceptance.

Musically, “Midnight Drive” is a classic country rock anthem, perfect for cruising on four wheels, two wheels, or even just exploring the wilderness on foot. The driving beat and rousing chorus are complemented by cool guitar flourishes, creating an energetic and uplifting listen. The song’s relatable themes and catchy melody are likely to resonate with fans of country rock.

Pat Fulgoni Blues Experience – Keep The Blues Alive

ByLillie-Apple ChartersInMusic ReviewsOn31/01/202531/01/2025

Pat Fulgoni puts his soulful and expressive vocals to good use in “Keep The Blues Alive”, a song about the blues getting you through tough times. There is an atmosphere to this track that transports you straight to a blues club, and his songwriting takes you on an immersive journey. Fulgoni’s style is similar to that of B.B. King, truly mesmerising, keeping you captivated right until the very last second.

“Keep The Blues Alive” is the third track from Fulgoni’s latest project “The Pat Fulgoni Blues Experience”, and what an experience it is! After hitting #3 in the UK Blues Album Charts and #3 in the USA Roots Music Report, it is obvious that listeners from around the world resonate with Fulgoni and his work.

Fulgoni’s Band consists of Jacob Beckwith on guitar, Jaden Hart on bass, Sam Bolt on keys and Zebedee Sylvester on drums – and together they form a blues powerhouse.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/patfulgonibluesexperience/

Memphis D – Down the road

ByLillie-Apple ChartersInMusic ReviewsOn31/01/202531/01/2025

“Down The Road” is the first track in Memphis D’s album “Songs For The King”, and is a real testament to storytelling through the blues. A soulful ballad portraying the sadness and heartbreak of a failed relationship, “Down The Road” sounds like it could be straight out of a Hollywood Western film. Although this song is about betrayal and leaving a loved one, D’s great rhythm and use of swing make it very hard to be angry.

Memphis D describes himself as being inspired by Classic Soul, Americana and Country which shows in this track and throughout the rest of his discography. Although D is based in Kirklees, his interpretation of the blues in “Down The Road” allows listeners to escape reality and time travel back to 1950s Memphis. D also has a sound similar to that of Elvis: soft and sincere – and any fan of the blues can count “Down The Road” as a welcome addition to their playlists.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/memphis_dsongs/