Category: Music Reviews

Hannah Rowe – Thin Line

Hannah Rowe is a singer and songwriter from Barnsley. She has recently graduated from Leeds Conservatoire where she met her fellow band mates. Hannah and the band are going from strength to strength performing at esteemed venues such as The Wardrobe, Belgrave Music Hall, Brudenell Social Club and Band On The Wall. She has also performed at festivals such as Tramlines, Truck Festival and Y Not Festival. Thin Line is a playful song about the transition from friends to lovers and the magic involved in crossing that line. This is a jazz infused, soulful track with heartfelt and original lyrics. Rowe has a smooth, velvety, dreamy voice which she commands at will, executing flawless riffs and runs and scaling the high notes with prowess. Her range is excellent and her vocal acrobatics are impeccable. The tight rhythm section complete with funky keys and bass make this a lethal track. Lashings of saxophone and gorgeous backing vocals are the icing on the cake of this beautiful, jazzy song.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/hannahr0we/

Astoria – If I’m Like You

Astoria formed during the pandemic and have been headlining gigs ever since. Originally from Kirklees, the band are now conquering Leeds with sell out shows at The Wardrobe and the renowned Brudenell Social Club. They have released tracks through Launchpad, played at Live At Leeds and they have been featured on the Leeds United match day playlist. They are looking forward to widening the reach of their live performances in the future. If I’m Like You has a distinct ‘90s feel akin to The Stone Roses. The melodic chorus, tight musicianship and sharp lyrics combine to explore the theme of struggling with personal identity and wishing to be someone else. On this track, jangly guitars build up to a final, epic chorus resulting in an explosion of backing vocals and guitars.

For more info: here

Blue Orchid Reaction – Tiny House

Blue Orchid Reaction are a 4 piece, indie rock band who play uplifting indie/ pop rock. They are influenced by a range of different genres and artists, and they have been gigging around West Yorkshire for the past three years. Tiny House is a captivating song which starts off gently with colourful riffs and smooth Paul Heaton style vocals and then finishes on more of an aggressive note with heavy guitars and shouty singing. The dramatic shift in the mood and the tempo likely reflects the topic of the song which is about being confined at home during covid and having nowhere to escape to.


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

Sophie and Songs – Denial

Sophie and Songs is an independent singer/songwriter who is studying Music in Leeds. She loves to write and perform for self expression and self knowledge. Denial is about the artist’s disconnection from her own thoughts and feelings.“If I’m dishonest then I can’t feel the fall.” These are sentiments that many people could resonate with. Denial is a hauntingly beautiful folk song with mesmerising acoustic guitar, rich imagery and stirring harmonies. Sophie’s angelic voice shines on this lovely, stripped back song.

For more info: https://sophieandsongs.bandcamp.com/track/denial

The Valleys – What goes up

The Valleys bring a fresh rock, jazz even folk infused, sound inspired by walking round the streets of Huddersfield. Their track, “What Goes Up,” is a uplifting anthemic song that challenges societal norms and encourages listeners to question the status quo.

The song’s lyrics delve into themes of injustice, distraction, disillusionment, and the relentless pursuit of happiness. With a warm embracing main vocal & emotion and poetic lyricism, The Valleys explore the complexities of modern life and the universal human experience.

“What Goes Up” is a thought-provoking track that resonates with listeners on a fun but deep level. It’s a call to action, urging individuals to break free from societal expectations, their own complacency and embrace their true selves.

Find out more – https://www.instagram.com/thevalleys.band/

Neo 21 – SGMA remix

Neo 21, has released a captivating remix of Dave & Jack Harlow’s “SGMA.” With his unique blend of Afrobeats, Hip-Hop, and Trap/Melodic Rap, Neo 21 brings a fresh perspective to the original track.

The “SGMA” Remix is more than just a reinterpretation; it’s a personal journey for Neo 21. During a period of transition, he used this project to reflect on his career and reaffirm his artistic path. The result is a intriguing and introspective track that showcases his growth as an artist.

Neo 21’s music is both relatable and aspirational. His songs inspire listeners with messages of hope, growth, and resilience, making him a rising star in the music industry.

Find out more – https://www.instagram.com/neo21ne/

Rock Paper Sister – Home

Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Huddersfield, Rock Paper Sister is a dynamic female-fronted 4 piece delivering a high-voltage blend of rock, classic rock, indie rock, and alternative rock.

Their latest album, “Home,” showcases the band’s unique sound, characterized by melodic vocals, powerful riffs, creative bass lines, and flamboyant drumming. The lead single, of the same title is both rousing and thought-provoking tackling the moments when the world is unloving and dark.

With their energetic live performances and strong songwriting, Rock Paper Sister are quickly making a name for themselves in the local music scene. Their recent appearances at Bands on the Square and the Longest Day Festival have garnered strong feedback, and they are poised to continue their upward trajectory with upcoming performances.

Find out more – https://www.instagram.com/rock_paper_sister_music

3 Letter Danger Club – Hometown Boy

3 Letter Danger Club are a 4 piece funk, rock and ska band from West Yorkshire. They dropped their debut album “Life Juice” in August 2024 and are gigging locally at established venues such as Northern Quarter, Huddersfield. Preferring to steer clear of writing about romance, their original songs address topics such as misogyny, drug addiction and friendships gone wrong. The single “Hometown Boy” is a celebration of heavy guitars and fuses elements of rock, metal and ska. The blistering drums, honeyed vocals and lyrical guitar solo make for an exciting, fiery track to pack dance floors and cause a stir.“Hometown Boy” is about karma and how not to treat people, especially in the music industry.

https://www.instagram.com/@3letterdangerclub

Maisy Brown – This Is All On You

Maisy Brown is a singer/songwriter based in Leeds who is building on her debut EP, “Learning Not To Feel Anything.” Taking inspiration from the likes of Holly Humberstone and Lourde, Maisy is heading in more of an alt pop direction. “This Is All On You” is a gentle, mellow dream pop number featuring Brown’s beautiful and flawless vocals. Brown’s authenticity as a songwriter shines through in this song with her honest and vulnerable lyrics regarding a past romance. It’s an emotive, relatable song about coming to terms with the end of a relationship. Complete with 80s synths, keys and intricate guitar, “This Is All On You” is an easy listen and an excellent break up song.

https://www.instagram.com/maisyybrown

Steddie Eddie – The Steeple

Steddie Eddie is a Producer and Rapper who has recently dropped his EP, “Who Asked.” Steddie Eddie is enjoying focussing on music after a hiatus and is eager to get out performing shows. On the track “Steeple”, Steddie Eddie flows over an industrial beat, showcasing clever wordplay and evocative imagery. His unique delivery is super expressive, emphasising certain points. The track is a fusion of genres such as grime, hip hop and soul, reminiscent of artists like WuLu. Steddie Eddie’s music addresses internal struggles and creating a positive mind state. Steddie Eddie is carving out his own unique sound which is hard to categorise.

https://www.instagram.com/eddieinbloom