Category: Music Reviews

Perspex Leslie – Boltzmann’s Brain

Perspex Leslie, a rising force in the music scene, is making a strong impression with their unique blend of alternative rock, jazz, anti-folk, and country songwriting. This genre-defying quartet, formed in 2024, has quickly captivated audiences with their innovative song structures and captivating live performances.

“Boltzmann’s Brain,” their debut EP, is a thought-provoking collection of songs that delve into profound philosophical questions. The title track itself explores the complex concept of our perception of reality and whether the universe we experience is truly what it seems.

Perspex Leslie’s music is characterized by a strong emphasis on songwriting and intricate piano/guitar arrangements. The band’s passion for creating music that resonates deeply with listeners is evident in every note.

“Boltzmann’s Brain” is a promising debut that showcases Perspex Leslie’s immense talent and potential. With their distinctive sound and captivating live performances, the band is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene.

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

Cheryl Holland – Get Up to Get Down

Hailing from West Yorkshire, Cheryl Holland is a dynamic singer/songwriter/producer whose music is a vibrant celebration of life, love, and the power of music. Drawing inspiration from the 90s club scene, she crafts infectious electronic, house, and pop tracks that are both uplifting and empowering.
“Get Up to Get Down,” born during the challenging times of the first lockdown, is an anthemic masterpiece that explores themes of rebirth, self-discovery, and the importance of breaking free from negativity. The track’s electrifying soundscape, featuring a blend of uplifting melodies and infectious rhythms, invites listeners to embark on an exhilarating journey of self-empowerment.

“Get Up to Get Down” is a powerful anthem that encourages listeners to prioritize their own well-being and to walk away from situations that are not conducive to their happiness. Cheryl Holland’s music is a beacon of positivity, inspiring listeners to embrace their true selves and dance their way towards a brighter future.

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

Butterfly Moon – Still Gonna Be There

Butterfly Moon, an acoustic duo known for their soulful harmonies and intricate guitar playing, have captivated audiences across Europe with their passionate and energetic performances.
“Still Gonna Be There” is a poignant and uplifting song that explores the themes of isolation, community, and finding joy in the face of adversity. The song offers a message of hope, reminding listeners that even during challenging times, the important things in life will endure.

Ash Edwards and Gareth Price-Baghurst, the duo behind Butterfly Moon, draw inspiration from their adventurous lifestyle, incorporating elements of travel and nature into their music. Their captivating stage presence and welcoming atmosphere create a unique and unforgettable experience for their audience.
“Still Gonna Be There” is a testament to Butterfly Moon’s ability to create music that is both meaningful and uplifting. Their music resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level, offering a message of hope and resilience.

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

Twitch’s Rats – On Their Own

Twitch’s Rats, a rising force in the North, have unleashed “On Their Own,” a raw and powerful track that showcases their blend of classic, indie, and alternative rock.
Formed in 2022, the band has quickly gained traction with their intense live shows and the release of their debut EP, “Nobody Left.” “On Their Own” delves into themes of self-expression, guilt, loneliness, and acceptance, channeling these emotions into a sonic assault of driving riffs and powerful vocals.
The song’s raw energy and emotional depth resonate deeply, leaving a lasting impact. Twitch’s Rats are a band to watch as they continue to push the boundaries of rock music.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/twitchs.rats.band

Rich Reddy – NOSALEM

Rich Reddy is a Huddersfield artist who fuses hip hop with metal and dance music. He has headlined gigs locally, including a high energy performance at Northern Quarter (Huddersfield.) A versatile artist, Rich Reddy’s eclecticism means that he attracts a wide range of music fans. Rich Reddy has created his own lane with his uniquely crafted sound.
NOSALEM is a happy marriage between trap and metal with its roving bass line, heavy guitars and brooding trap beat. Rich Reddy’s combination of singing, spoken word and rap fits well with the music and the vocal effects add to the drama of the piece. This is a one of a kind single which references ‘90s grunge and nu metal bands such as Deftones.

Find out more – https://www.instagram.com/richreddy72/

Memnor – III:Infancy

Memnor are a prog rock band who enjoy writing long form narrative songs. Their love of sound design and technical musicianship make for complex and varied soundscapes.
III:Infancy is an experimental journey full of heavy guitar and synths. There are many twists and turns throughout the song which showcases the skill and agility of the musicians, especially the drummer who frequently switches up the rhythms and tempo. The synthesised vocals are almost Queen- esque and there are calming, quiet interludes amidst the rocky guitars. III:Infancy closes the first chapter of the
New Seed Saga, a sci-fi story about a new entrant to an interconnected web of minds that see themselves as trees in a colossal forest. Enjoy the magical adventure!

Find out more – https://wearememnor.com/

Brad Mack – I’m Gonna Leave

Brad Mack has a distinctive, husky voice somewhere between Paolo Nutini and Alex Turner. Having taught himself to sing in lockdown, the artist from Batley has gone on to headline shows, play at festivals and tour around Europe. He is known for his lively, high energy indie rock. I’m Gonna Leave is a cheerful break up song which celebrates leaving an unhealthy relationship. It’s a very liberating song and the twanging guitars and addictive chorus are reminiscent of The Arctic Monkeys. Despite the subject matter, this is an upbeat song which many people could empathise with.

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

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/