2019, and update on the last year.

Thanks for reading my new post, my name is Bill Cummings and I am looking for more new clients for the next year so I thought I'd update you on my work and see if you are interested in what PR services I have to offer.

Over the past twelve months I have worked on an album campaign for John MOuse which delivered a strong range of album reviews, a single campaign for The Mu-Tones in Manchester which developed their presence online and in their region. I have also worked closely with Horizons and Bethan Elfyn at the BBC to promote their Horizons project, which focusses on emerging Welsh artists, I wrote press releases and gained coverage for the artists in Welsh media, blogs and beyond. I finished the year off with three cool campaigns, Ani Glass released another single. Perfect Body and Zac White are two emerging noise-pop acts from Cardiff releasing on the Bubblewrap I gained them strong local coverage as well as mentions in Drowned in Sound and airplay on BBC Wales. R.Seiliog is a fantastic artist from North Wales who produces quite the most beguiling electronic music, Turnstile Music(home of Gruff Rhys, Martha Ffion, Gwenno amongst others)approached me to work on a campaign for his astounding album 'Megadoze' it went really well with positive coverage across the board he became featured artist on 6 music thanks to Gideon Coe and had airplay on afternoon, as well as reviews in Louder than War, Electronic Sound, Q magazine, and Mojo. Finally, I worked with Al Moses and upcoming band from Cardiff who were part of the Forte project gaining them some good column inches with Its all indie and Gigslutz amongst other features.

I have also carried out quick pieces of work for Junior Bill and Kayla Painter. I have some good campaigns coming up this year but I am always keen to hear what you are working with or what artists you have on your labels, so get in touch below. I am reliable, hardworking, dedicated, and passionate about music.

Over ten years I've worked with the likes of The Orielles, Adwaith, Quiet Marauder, R.Seiliog, Castles, Ani Glass, Coasts, The Migrant, Little Eris, Conformist, The Keys, Ten City Nation, HMS Morris and many more, including on festival campaigns featuring worldwide names. In the past six months I have run an album campaign for John MOuse plus introducing a campaign for Hoult and Niterooms and on an EP for Ysgol Sul. I have gained column inches in Guardian, Uncut Magazine, DIY Magzine, Pitchfork, Crack In The Road, Drowned in Sound, TLOBF, Clash Magazine, LTW, Buzz Magazine, South Wales Echo plus a myriad of blogs, playlists, and taste-makers. I have gained airplay with Tom Robinson, Steve Lamacq, Lauren Laverne, Huw Stevens, Adam Walton and Bethan Elfyn amongst others.

As a journalist for twenty years(editing www.godisinthetvzine.co.uk) and writing for various online and print publications(Gair rhydd, Sound Nation, Buzz, Kruger magazine) and broadcasting with Radio Cardiff, Central Cardiff and now Radio Glamorgan. I have an appreciation of how the media works and a huge passion for local music, emerging UK artists and Welsh artists who I believe deserve a greater platform within the UK.An appreciation of promotion techniques that take in traditional music media of digital, radio and print distribution plus newer techniques that include utilising the benefits of social media and streaming platforms to create a buzz around a new artist or release. I can create impactful one-page press releases and I have personal and long-standing connections with journalists, media, and taste-makers both local and national so that I can get your music to the ears of the people that matter.

Working closely with the artist, management and label to find out what works for them, I offer a range of packages including album, single, and a new introducing deal. For three months of digital and print press PR, and some key radio targets, I also often work in conjunction Aled at Beast PR who offer radio plugging both in Wales and the UK wide. After this three month period we can review the campaign and then discuss whether you require longer and more in-depth help with promoting releases moving forward.

If you are interested in seeing my rate card get in touch! I look forward to hearing any music you are working on or releasing!

soundandvisionpr@gmail.com Thanks Bill Cummings

www.soundandvisionpr.com

Al Moses release their debut single 'I Want More' on the 30th of November.

Al Moses release their blistering debut single 'I Want More' through digital platforms on the 30th November. Al Moses are an incendiary new band made up of four nineteen-year-old friends from the South Wales valleys, who take on rock and roll history and stamp it with their personalities and the youthful ambition to be heard beyond their hometowns. Debut single 'I Want More' was produced by Steffan Pringle (ESTRONS, Himalayas) at Giant Wafer Studios and mastered by Charlie Francis (Pixies, REM).  With its sneering vocals, sizzling riffs and stomping beat, the rollicking 'I Want More' encapsulates their burning ambition, the disillusionment of their generation and wraps it in a swaggering chorus. It’s a hungry opening statement of intent from this exciting young band.

Al Moses singer Jack Shepherd says: 'It’s a head-on, hands-up anthem for people like us, the disillusioned youth. We just want more than what's laid out for us. And this song aims to capture that spirit and determination of how we feel right now.' Jack Shepherd.

Jack and Daf, who co-front and share lead vocals in Al Moses, met at house party 2015. A few days later, after watching The Jesus and Mary Chain at the Cardiff Students Union they adopted the name Al Moses inspired by a religious connotation.

Daf is an aspiring actor, studying at Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, already appearing in nationwide drama and cast in various music videos.  Al Moses were chosen in January 2018 to be part of the Forte Project that provides mentoring, live opportunities and practical support for new and upcoming acts based in South Wales.

For fans of The Libertines, Catfish and the Bottlemen, Cribs, Oasis, The Blinders

Upcoming gigs:

17th November: Supporting Peace & Fickle Friends at Shimmer Sounds 2018 @

Tramshed, Cardiff

29th November: Headline show @ Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff

Al Moses: Daf Thomas - Guitar/lead vocals Jack Shepherd - Guitar/lead vocals Raychi Bryant - Bass George Percival – Drums Facebook : @almosesband Insta: @almosesband  

Ani Glass new single Peirianwaith Perffaith

Artist: Ani Glass Title of Single: Peirianwaith Perffaith Release Date: 26 October 2018 via Recordiau Neb

“Ani transcends language with her shimmering take on pop.” Eugenie Johnson – DIY

Ani Glass releases her new single 'Peirianwaith Perffaith' (Perfect Machinery) on the 26th of October through Recordiau Neb. She will be performing at Pop Montréal on the 28th and 29th of September and will be attending as part of the Focus Wales delegation, supported by PRS Foundation's International Showcase Fund and Wales Arts International.

Video Link

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssgcjx7zXnM

Soundcloud link:

https://soundcloud.com/aniglass/ani-glass-peirianwaith-perffaith/s-lV4kn

Ani Glass is back with her new single 'Peirianwaith Perffaith' (Perfect Machinery) underpinned by a tapestry of pulsing and prodding synths, samples and programmed beats bathed in the neon of the city’s industrial glow. Her sublime pirouetting vocal refrains infuses a knowing pop universality into the overwhelming experience of life in the city’s engine room. Ani says it’s about how the “search for identity in a moving city and society insists on a sense of stillness often found in the shadows of progress”.

Released as a single in 2016, the industrial electro-pop of ‘Y Ddawns’ (The Dance) is a rallying call for those seeking inspiration in language and art. Laura Snapes of Pitchfork said it was "a double-edged sword that's as stern as it is hopeful; music for the end of the world, and the start of a new one." While BBC Wales’s Bethan Elfyn named it “Perfect Euro Pop!”

Ani followed this with the release of her debut EP ‘Ffrwydrad Tawel’ (Silent Explosion) on Recordiau Neb which included six infectious, socially conscious electronic pop songs. They stand as a document of Ani Glass’s artistic evolution invested with grander themes concerning the Welsh language and politics. A Remix version of the EP was later released and featured reinterpretations by Carcharorion, Cotton Wolf, Plyci and R. Seiliog.

Biography Ani Glass is the persona of Cardiff-based electronic pop musician, producer, artist and photographer, Ani Saunders. Fiercely proud of her heritage, Glass sings in her native languages Welsh and Cornish, and in 2016 released her first solo material with lead single ‘Ffôl’ (Foolish) being chosen as single of the week on BBC Radio Cymru and gaining plays on BBC 6 music.  Ani is also known for her work with The Pipettes, joining in 2008 to record the Martin Rushent-produced Earth Vs. The Pipettes album. Prior to her stint with the polka-dotted pop band, Glass was a member of Genie Queen, managed by OMD’s Andy McCluskey.   <.

Links Website http://www.recordiauneb.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/aniglasscymru/ Twitter https://twitter.com/AniSaunders Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/aniglass Press Enquiries Please direct all press enquiries to Bill Cummings soundandvisionpr@googlemail.co

SEARCH FOR ACTS TO JOIN HORIZONS 2018 ANNOUNCED!

BBC Wales and Arts Council of Wales are today announcing that the search for Horizons artists to join its 2018 project is now underway. The applications process is now open and the 12 successful acts will be supported and promoted in various ways by Horizons over the next 12 months.

Horizons is a unique showcase of new, independent contemporary music in Wales. Now in its fourth-year, Horizons is a collaboration between BBC Wales and Arts Council of Wales.

Since its inception in 2014, Horizons has given a platform to over 36 emerging artists from Wales giving them support and mentoring to help them reach new audiences in Wales, the UK and beyond, and supported many more at festival stages and help release ambitions through the Launchpad fund.

The Horizons project aims to be a comprehensive showcase of promising talent in Wales. From providing promotional and performance opportunities, over the past four years Horizons has provided new Welsh acts with a breadth of support and some unforgettable experiences as they start their journeys into music.

Horizons acts have been showcased at some of the biggest festivals at home and internationally from Glastonbury, The Great Escape, Festival No.6, Sŵn, to Eurosonic and SXSW and performed sessions at the legendary Maida Vale Studios. In the three years of the project previous Horizons alumni include Candelas, Swnami, CaStLeS, Violet Skies, Afrocluster, Baby Queens, Kizzy Crawford, Seazoo, The People the Poet, Reuel Elijah, Danielle Lewis and many more who have benefitted from the Horizon’s Project.

- The 12 artists will be offered a platform at events across Wales and on BBC Wales’ national services - BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Wales.

- Acts who want to be considered fill in a form online via bbc.co.uk/horizons. Horizons acts will be selected by a panel of experts from within the partnership and the wider music sector.

The Horizons project will be bringing music to many festivals over summer 2018 and will offer more exciting opportunities to Welsh musicians later in the year through its Launchpad funding scheme.

Also new for this year, The Horizons Project has hand picked 12 'Horizons bloggers' who will help spread the word about the Horizons 12 new acts for 2018. Providing personal, insightful and in depth coverage of the acts selected with blogs, podcasts and exclusive content. Horizons Bloggers will also be appearing on panels and on the BBC to help promote the acts and the project's work online and on social media.

Music fans can follow the Twitter account @horizonscymru for all the latest news.

Violet Skies, one of the artists from the 2015 Project says:

“It’s was a mad year for me as part of the Horizons scheme. I’ve been lucky enough to tick off a lot of things from my musical bucket list - The Great Escape, Festival No.6, Sŵn, Maida Vale and now, I’m looking forward to Eurosonic and SXSW festival. It's been a lovely little Welsh family of talented musicians and a really good support team - it's nice to turn up at festivals or a show knowing you have people there to help you. Writing and collaborating with other artists has been a highlight too, and having so many others going through the same as you is so reassuring.”

Lisa Gwilym, BBC Radio Cymru presenter said:

“What I enjoy most about the Horizons project is the opportunity to get to know 12 artists so much better. To be able to follow their journey over the year – from all the festivals to the famous Maida Vale studios – is extremely exciting. I can’t wait to hear and see the range of music on offer from the Horizons artists this year.”

Lisa Matthews, Portfolio Manager at the Arts Council of Wales, says:

“We’re proud to support Horizons for a further year and see another 12 artists have a creative and potentially career changing year. There’s been some incredible opportunities created so far and we’re looking forward with excitement more incredible music experiences.”

Bethan Elfyn, Project Manager of Horizons at BBC Wales, said:

“The music industry is constantly changing and it is a challenge to get new, unsigned artists heard in such a competitive world, but a challenge the Horizons team relish. We’ll have a special start to our festival calendar this year by revealing our new 12 at the Biggest Weekend Fringe Festival in Swansea, and putting on a whole host of acts across a whole week of activity in Swansea. That’s just the start and we look forward to a 12 month journey with the new artists.”

Applications are open from April 23 to Midnight, May 7, and announcements will follow from May 21 at the Biggest Weekend Fringe.

Please follow Twitter and Facebook - @horizonscymru - for all the information.

For interview requests and press photos please contact Bill at soundandvisionpr@googlemail.com

Y CHWILIO AM ARTISTIAID A BANDIAU I YMUNO Â GORWELION 2018 WEDI CYCHWYN!

Mae BBC Cymru a Chyngor Celfyddydau Cymru yn cyhoeddi heddiw bod y gwaith o chwilio am artistiaid i ymuno â phrosiect Gorwelion ar gyfer 2018 bellach ar droed. Mae’r broses ymgeisio ar agor a bydd y 12 artist a band llwyddiannus yn cael eu cefnogi a’u hyrwyddo mewn amrywiol ffyrdd gan Gorwelion dros y 12 mis nesaf.

Mae Gorwelion yn cynnig llwyfan unigryw i gerddoriaeth gyfoes annibynnol, newydd. Cydweithrediad ydyw rhwng BBC Cymru a Chyngor Celfyddydau Cymru, ac mae bellach ar ei bedwaredd flwyddyn.

Ers ei sefydlu yn 2014, mae Gorwelion wedi rhoi llwyfan i dros 36 o artistiaid newydd o Gymru, gan roi cefnogaeth iddynt a’u mentora er mwyn eu cynorthwyo i gyrraedd cynulleidfaoedd newydd yng Nghymru, y DU a thu hwnt. Mae hefyd wedi cefnogi llawer mwy o artistiaid ar lwyfannau gwyliau ac wedi cynorthwyo i wireddu uchelgeisiau trwy gyfrwng y Gronfa Lawnsio.

Nod prosiect Gorwelion yw cyflwyno amrywiaeth gynhwysfawr o dalent addawol o Gymru. Drwy gynnig cyfleoedd hyrwyddo a pherfformio, dros y tair blynedd diwethaf mae Gorwelion wedi rhoi ystod o gymorth a phrofiadau bythgofiadwy i artistiaid a bandiau newydd o Gymru wrth iddynt ddechrau ar eu taith ym myd cerddoriaeth.

Mae artistiaid a bandiau Gorwelion wedi cael llwyfan yn rhai o’n gwyliau mwyaf gartref ac yn rhyngwladol, o Glastonbury, The Great Escape, Gŵyl Rhif 6 a Sŵn i Eurosonic a SXSW, ac wedi perfformio sesiynau yn stiwdios enwog Maida Vale. Mae artistiaid Gorwelion yn ystod tair blynedd gyntaf y prosiect yn cynnwys Candelas, Swnami, CaStLeS, Violet Skies, Afrocluster, Baby Queens, Kizzy Crawford, Seazoo, The People the Poet, Reuel Elijah, Danielle Lewis a llawer mwy sydd wedi elwa yn sgil prosiect Gorwelion.

- Bydd y 12 o artistiaid yn cael cynnig llwyfan mewn digwyddiadau ledled Cymru ac ar wasanaethau cenedlaethol BBC Cymru - BBC Radio Cymru a BBC Radio Wales.

- Bydd angen i artistiaid/bandiau sydd eisiau cael eu hystyried lenwi ffurflen ar-lein ar bbc.co.uk/gorwelion. Bydd artistiaid/bandiau Gorwelion yn cael eu dewis gan banel o arbenigwyr sy’n rhan o’r bartneriaeth ac o’r sector cerddoriaeth yn ehangach.

Bydd prosiect Gorwelion yn dod â cherddoriaeth i lu o wyliau yn ystod haf 2018 ac yn cynnig rhagor o gyfleoedd cyffrous i gerddorion o Gymru yn nes ymlaen yn y flwyddyn trwy gyfrwng cynllun ariannu y Gronfa Lawnsio.

Un peth newydd eleni yw’r 12 o ‘Flogwyr Gorwelion’ sydd wedi cael eu dethol yn arbennig gan brosiect Gorwelion ac a fydd yn cynorthwyo i roi’r gair ar led am 12 artist/band newydd Gorwelion ar gyfer 2018, gan roi sylw personol, treiddgar a manwl i’r artistiaid a’r bandiau a gaiff eu dewis, trwy gyfrwng blogiau, podlediadau a chynnwys arbennig. Bydd Blogwyr Gorwelion hefyd yn ymddangos ar baneli ac ar y BBC i helpu i hyrwyddo’r artistiaid, ac yng ngwaith y prosiect ar-lein ac ar y cyfryngau cymdeithasol.

Gall dilynwyr cerddoriaeth ddilyn cyfrif Twitter @horizonscymru i gael yr holl newyddion diweddaraf.

Dolenni/manylion ymgeisio:

Meddai Violet Skies, un o artistiaid Prosiect 2015:

“Roedd fy mlwyddyn yn rhan o gynllun Gorwelion yn un wallgof. Rydw i wedi bod yn ddigon ffodus i gael cyflawni llawer o bethau oedd ar fy rhestr o brofiadau cerddorol - The Great Escape, Gŵyl Rhif 6, Sŵn, Maida Vale, a nawr rwy’n edrych ymlaen at Eurosonic a gŵyl SXSW. Mae wedi bod yn deulu bach hyfryd o gerddorion talentog o Gymru gyda thîm cymorth arbennig o dda – mae’n braf cyrraedd gŵyl neu sioe gan wybod y bydd gennych bobl yno i’ch helpu. Mae ysgrifennu a chydweithio ag artistiaid eraill wedi bod yn un o’r uchafbwyntiau hefyd, ac mae cael cynifer o bobl eraill yn mynd drwy’r un profiadau â chi yn gefn mawr.”

Yn ôl Lisa Gwilym, cyflwynydd ar BBC Radio Cymru:

“Yr hyn rwy’n ei fwynhau fwyaf am brosiect Gorwelion yw’r cyfle i ddod i adnabod 12 o artistiaid gymaint yn well. Mae’n hynod o gyffrous gallu dilyn eu taith yn ystod y flwyddyn – o’r holl wyliau i stiwdios enwog Maida Vale. Rwy’n edrych ymlaen yn eiddgar at gael clywed yr amrywiaeth o gerddoriaeth a fydd ar gael gan artistiaid Gorwelion eleni.”

Meddai Lisa Matthews, Rheolwr Portffolio yng Nghyngor Celfyddydau Cymru:

“Rydym ni’n falch o gefnogi Gorwelion am flwyddyn arall, a gweld 12 artist arall yn cael blwyddyn greadigol a allai newid eu gyrfa yn 2018. Mae cyfleoedd anhygoel wedi’u creu hyd yma ac rydym yn edrych ymlaen yn llawn cyffro at ragor o brofiadau cerddorol anhygoel.”

Yn ôl Bethan Elfyn, Rheolwr Prosiect Gorwelion yn BBC Cymru:

“Mae’r diwydiant cerddoriaeth yn newid yn barhaus ac mae’n her sicrhau bod artistiaid newydd nad ydynt ar gytundeb yn cael eu clywed mewn byd mor gystadleuol, ond mae’n her y mae tîm Gorwelion yn cael blas arni. Bydd gennym ddechrau arbennig i’n calendr o wyliau eleni gan y byddwn yn datgelu ein 12 newydd yng Ngŵyl Ymylol y Penwythnos Mwyaf yn Abertawe, ac yn cyflwyno llu o artistiaid yn ystod wythnos lawn o weithgareddau yno. A dim ond y dechrau fydd hynny – rydym ni’n edrych ymlaen at daith 12 mis o hyd gyda’r artistiaid newydd.”

Gellir ymgeisio rhwng Ebrill 23 a hanner nos ar Mai 7, a daw’r cyhoeddiadau wedi hynny o Ŵyl Ymylol y Penwythnos Mwyaf.

Dilynwch Gorwelion ar Twitter a Facebook - @horizonscymru – er mwyn cael yr holl wybodaeth.

I wneud cais am gyfweliadau a lluniau ar gyfer y wasg, cysylltwch â Bill ar Soundandvisionpr@googlemail.com

The Mu-Tones release their debut single 'Slab City Records' on the 30th of June 2018 through Ugly Man Records. Supported by a launch show at Jimmy's Northern Quarter in Manchester on the same night!

The Mu-Tones release their debut single 'Slab City Records' on the 30th of June 2018 through Ugly Man Records. Supported by a launch show at Jimmy's Northern Quarter in Manchester on the same night!

https://soundcloud.com/soundandvisionpr/mutonesslabcityrecords Manchester trio The Mu-Tones are a noisy garage pop band forged of three talents and a desire for direct communication, led by formerMarion guitarist/songwriter Anthony Grantham and joined by Alex Redhead (bass) formerly of Amplifier and Peter Gray (drums) who used to play with Letters to Fiesta. The Mu-Tones manifesto is direct and to the point: short sharp songs crammed full of loud, angry, weird magic. Anthony says "Some of them are about how I feel, and some of them show how I feel without making a lot of sense"

Their debut single 'Slab City Records' is a bruising distillation of the Mu-Tones sound, filthy basslines, scorched riffing and railroading drums, it's flying across the rails into a sizzling crescendo, think The Pixies or Husker Du reassembled through Grantham's imagination. This urgent noise pop is laced with an insurgent ode to a forgotten area of the US: "Its an area in America not even on the map, run by solar power, apparently they have gigs on there, it's something I'd love to do." says Grantham"Also it DOES sound like the sort of thing you'd hear Lux Interior saying, which is kind of what the second verse is about."

Anthony Grantham was the guitarist and one of the songwriters in revered 1990s band Marion until they disbanded "When I left we had stopped writing, at least together, and writing has always been a great joy of mine"

Ugly Man Records was established in 1986 with the début release of Wonderful Life, by Liverpool band Black. Over the next 26 years, they have had the good fortune to release débuts by Elbow, I am Kloot and Josephine Oniyama. They have published football fanzines and books by Frank Sidebottom.

Best of all they are still here now releasing great music and finding even more emerging talent'.

Mu-Tones launch their debut single 'Slab City Records' at Jimmy's Northern Quarter on the 30th of June 2018. Tickets for the show will be available here https://bit.ly/2Hf7UDy www.instagram.com/themutones www.twitter.com/themutones

Sound and Vision Promo packages

Hello Bill Cummings here,

I run www.soundandvisionpr.com I have some available time now so I wanted to see if you were interested in what I have to offer for artists and labels.

Over the last ten years I've worked with the likes of The Orielles, Adwaith, Quiet Marauder, R.Seiliog, Castles, Ani Glass, Coasts, The Migrant, Little Eris, Conformist, The Keys, Ten City Nation, HMS Morris and many more, including on festival campaigns featuring worldwide names. In the past six months I have run an album campaign for John MOuse plus introducing a campaign for Hoult and Niterooms and on an EP for Ysgol Sul. I have gained column inches in Guardian, Uncut Magazine, DIY Magzine, Pitchfork, Crack In The Road, Drowned in Sound, TLOBF, Clash Magazine, LTW, Buzz Magazine, South Wales Echo plus a myriad of blogs, playlists, and taste-makers. I have gained airplay with Tom Robinson, Steve Lamacq, Lauren Laverne, Huw Stevens, Adam Walton and Bethan Elfyn amongst others.

As a journalist for twenty years(editing www.godisinthetvzine.co.uk) and writing for various online and print publications(Gair rhydd, Sound Nation, Buzz, Kruger magazine) and broadcasting with Radio Cardiff, Central Cardiff and now Radio Glamorgan. I have an appreciation of how the media works and a huge passion for local music, emerging UK artists and Welsh artists who I believe deserve a greater platform within the UK.An appreciation of promotion techniques that take in traditional music media of digital, radio and print distribution plus newer techniques that include utilising the benefits of social media and streaming platforms to create a buzz around a new artist or release. I can create impactful one page press releases and I have personal and long-standing connections with journalists, media, and taste-makers both local and national so that I can get your music to the ears of the people that matter.

Working closely with the artist, management and label to find out what works for them, I offer a range of packages including album, single, and a new introducing deal. For three months of digital and print press PR, and some key radio targets, I also often work in conjunction Aled at Beast PR who offer radio plugging both in Wales and the UK wide. After this three month period we can review the campaign and then discuss whether you require longer and more in-depth help with promoting releases moving forward.

If you are interested in seeing my rate card get in touch! I look forward to hearing any music you are working on or releasing!

soundandvisionpr@gmail.com Thanks Bill Cummings

www.soundandvisionpr.com

John MOuse releases new album 'Replica Figures' on the 19th of Feb!

After a successful fan funding campaign, John MOuse releases his fifth album ‘Replica Figures’ out through Keep Me In Your Heart Records on the 19th of February 2018. For ‘Replica Figures’ John returns to work with original band member Sweet Baboo. It's been 15 years since the two worked under John's previous moniker JT Mouse and the result is a touching album with glimpses of John's black humour, which has been a signature throughout his career.

"We had talked about working together but other commitments had taken president. This is the type album I have been wanting to release for some time.” Says John of his decision to work with Steve Baboo “ Steve understood straight away what I was trying to achieve and we worked really quickly on just letting the songs breath and be themselves. Nothing was over thought or overworked."

‘Replica Figures’ features Steve Black(Sweet Baboo) on piano and bass, former guitarist of early 90's indie band Hopper (who were signed to Tony Wilson’s Factory Too records), Paul Sheppard, and John's daughter Maggie Lola on backing vocals. The album circulates around the concept of memories, different memories, how they are created, the lack of memory, enforced and false memories...

"We wanted the album to have restrictions in place, a limited palette of instruments and sounds, and most importantly a vocal performance to capture emotion and the moment.” Says John about recording the album “We are so used to listening to perfect vocals and I wanted to create a snapshot, much like a memory."

‘Replica Figures’ is John’s first album since 2014’s greatly received long player ‘The Death of John MOuse’ that was praised by The Line of Best Fit and Louder than War websites and its brilliant lead single ‘I was a Goalkeeper’ which featured Gareth from Los Campesinos. John MOuse, real name John Davies has been described as ‘A Welsh Beck,’ and ‘A Less Funny Half Man Half Biscuit’. Under his previous incarnation JT Mouse he worked with Sweet Baboo (aka Steven Black) while in 2010 he scored a cult hit with a song about a gay romance with another duet, this time with TV presenter Steve Jones lifted from the acclaimed album ‘Humber Dogger Forties’. Airplay support for John MOuse includes Frank Skinner on Absolute Radio, Huw Stephens on BBC Radio 1, Steve Lamacq on BBC 6 Music and Adam Walton & Bethan Elfyn on BBC Radio Wales.

“The blend of unpredictability, wit and sharp reminiscence contained within is the real joy of this latest offering by this highly original artist a Welsh indie pop hero…reminiscent of a South Wales David Gedge” Louder Than War

“A Welsh Weezer… arty and not afraid of whopping melodies” The Line Of Best Fit

’ “An extraordinary piece of poetry” Mary Anne Hobbs on ‘Robbie Savage’.

“There is only one John MOuse, a Welsh Superstar and an impassioned performer.” Tom Robinson

Live Dates:

Feb 3rd, Mozarts, Swansea Feb 8th, The Old England, Bristol Feb 10th, Prince Albert, Stroud Feb 17th, Le Pub, Newport Feb 19th, Spillers Records (Instore), Cardiff Feb 22nd, The Haunt, London Feb 23rd, Fairwater Social, Cardiff Feb 24th, Moles, Bath

www.facebook.com/JohnMOuseMusic www.twitter.com/johnmousemusic

Digital/print PR Bill Cummings soundandvisionpr@googlemail.com

The Tates release their new single 'Water' on the 1st of December as a digital download through Libertino Records.

The Tates release their new single 'Water' on the 1st of December as a digital download through Libertino Records.

‘Water’, the brightly infectious new single by Welsh five-piece The Tates, has been eagerly anticipated after the success of the band’s debut release ‘Electric Girl’. The song was supported by Huw Stephens, BBC Introducing, Radio 1 and gained Amazing radio playlisting as well as being A-listed on BBC Radio Wales.

Energized by their summer tour in support of ‘Electric Girl’ a confident and inspired band returned to the studio in Cardiff to work with producer Steffan Pringle (Estrons, Himalayas, Future Of The Left) again. They emerged with a sense of purpose with a song that will redefine 'The Tates' as the torch-bearers of a new sound, a sound that ranges from The Libertines’ poetic raw energy to the death disco of early New Order and the fuzzed day-glow pop melodies of MGMT.

Lyrically ‘Water’ asks a poetic question exploring themes of nature over nurture, as Tom the guitarist explains: “Are the flaws that we share with our parents who we are, or have we learnt from them? Are we free to be the people we want to be or are we trapped by our genetic makeup and our immediate environment and society?” It is testament to the band that with their unwavering belief in the pop song they are in full control of their chosen genre - they make the pop song theirs. 'The Tates' build from the ground up, step by step until they can reach the stars.

Niterooms release their self-titled debut EP on the 20th of November through all major streaming outlets.

Niterooms are wrapped up in computers and introspection. Their musical landscapes blur the lines between electronica, grime, r'n'b, hip hop, ambient and alternative music, imbuing their personal songwriting with a boundary-pushing, intriguing sound that shifts contemporary music into different places.

The four tracks on Niterooms self-titled debut EP are an unmissable depiction of a swiftly emerging outfit already gathering strong praise, "...they're genuinely trying to do something different without it being a challenge ... it exists somehow, somewhere between grime, dream pop and ambient electronic music..." Adam Walton, BBC Radio Wales.

'Headway' the EPs new single, is laced with a deep groove, synth textures and percussive ticks, that vividly demonstrates their mysterious production style. It comes replete with a shape-shifting vocal delivery that tumbles between vocoder and rap, watch the Ed Townend directed video here.

Niterooms are a young three-piece from Brithdir, a small forgotten mining town in South Wales. They are supported by the Forté Project, a new music development project which supports ten young acts from around the region. Their debut EP is the follow up to 'Wash' , their exhilarating minimalist pop debut from earlier this year.

Niterooms debut EP, will be available through Spotify/AppleMusic/iTunes on the 20th of November. Niterooms Facebook Niterooms Twitter Niterooms Instagram

Hoult releases Debut single 'Pharmacy' this Friday

Hoult releases his debut single ‘Pharmacy’ on Friday 6th of October through Phwoar & Peace, it will be available on digital and streaming platforms.

Hoult has the rare knack of sounding both dreamy and sharp at the same time. This, married with vital yet wistful song-writing, concocts his imaginative brand of guitar pop.

‘Pharmacy’ builds from an affecting intimacy into a song with a grand scale possessing folk-tinged anthemic choruses: reminiscent of Bombay Bicycle club and Frightened Rabbit rippling with personal lyrics that tap into wider themes: “Pharmacy summarises the feeling of frustration when you cannot help someone you care about.” Says Hoult “Darker themes run through the veins of this track, yet the energetic and cheerful instrumentation represent the mask a lot of people wear on a daily basis.”

Hoult better known as Sam Fowke is a singer-songwriter / producer from Gloucester, now based in Cardiff. He released one single entitled 'Red Handed’ under his own name last year, it quickly racked up over 7000 plays. He now returns under the new moniker Hoult with his most affecting and ambitious song yet. Links:

www.twitter.com/houltuk www.facebook.com/houltuk www.phwoarandpeace.com www.twitter.com/phwoarandpeace Bill Cummings Sound and Vision PR soundandvisionpr@googlemail.com www.soundandvisionpr.com

Ysgol Sul release their first English language EP 'Eventide' 30th of September

West Wales three piece Ysgol Sul will be self-releasing their first collection of English language songs –“Eventide”- on 30/09/17.

Brought together by a mutual love of the 90s underground, Iolo Jones (singer, guitarist), Llew Davies (drummer), Cian Owen (bass guitar), formed Ysgol Sul in 2014.

Having released several singles and an EP called “Huno”, the band has managed to earn a cult following within the Welsh language scene.

“Eventide” is a stark departure from the slacker and languor of their debut EP, and introduces a touch of darkness to the bands dreamy sound.

The EP opens with “Silhouette” – a song with a sense of yearning yet one of the band’s jangliest songs to date. “Promise Me” sees a return to the trio’s early surfy sound, drenched in reverb. “Elsewhere” is an unholy union of haunting distant sounds and a fierce unrelenting beat. Introverted lyrics coupled with sweet harmonies are brought to the EP by “Dwell”. Krautrock locomotive, “Solitude”, closes the collection. https://www.facebook.com/ysgolsulband/ https://twitter.com/YsgolSul3 https://soundcloud.com/ysgol-sul

Ummagma ‘LCD’ EP with Contributions by Robin Guthrie (Cocteau Twins) & Dean Garcia (Curve)

The new ‘LCD’ EP from Canada’s Ummagma, which follows up their 'Winter Tale' maxi-single with 4AD dream pop pioneer A.R.Kane earlier this year, features four superb tracks of ethereal majesty and exquisite composition, including the new original title track LCD and reworkings of Ummagma songs by not one, but two, legendary British musical figures.

The first is respected Cocteau Twins multi-instrumentalist Robin Guthrie, who offers a breathtaking remix of Ummagma 'Lama' – this is the first time he has worked with a female vocalist in a long time. In the Clash Magazine premiere, editor Robin Murray commends its “soaring melodies and swathes of sound... a gorgeous piece with near orchestral reach”, further noting that “LCD’ explores otherworldly climes, matching heavenly vocals to arrangements as complex as they are hopelessly beautiful”.

The other contribution comes from maverick electronic artist-producer Dean Garcia, who contributes two mixes to the EP. Garcia is famed as half of seminal British indie/alt-rock band Curve with iconic vocalist Toni Halliday and half of SPC ECO with Rose Berlin. His enveloping reworking of their track ‘Back to You’ and his unique mix of 'LCD' are two superb additions that round off a release that encompasses a wide spectrum of sonic sound and gorgeous textures.

“When listening to the original versions of these two songs, I wanted to make something that was an extension of the psyche and space mood that to me is the heart n soul of Ummagma,” explains Dean Garcia. “With the ‘LCD’ mix, it was a matter of going into the original stems and extracting the most trippy n spacey elements and expanding them into a different zone. ‘Back To You’ was more about enhancing the mood of the song as it stood, but with view to bring out its dark and foreboding nature. I enjoyed working on both mixes for different reasons, the sense of space and oddness within both mixes is the thing that glues it all together. File under Dark Psyche.”

Ummagma is Shauna McLarnon, hailing from Canada, and Alexander Kretov, originally from Ukraine. Now based in Canada, Ummagma won the Alternative Eurovision on Amazing Radio, representing Ukraine among 23 countries. They have also received awards and charted in places as far-flung as Australia and the USA to Scotland and Russia.

Apart from Cocteau Twins, Curve and SPC ECO, this new ‘LCD’ EP offers delights for fans of Beach House, Stereolab, Curve, Warpaint, Broadcast, GEMS, and MGMT.

“I grew up listening to Cocteau Twins, Curve, and so many bands from the 4AD and Creation labels, and then later introduced them to my husband. He learned of them late, having been born in the USSR. We feel incredibly honoured that Robin Guthrie and Dean Garcia have shaped several of our tracks as they personally envision them,” says vocalist Shauna McLarnon.

Ummagma release their new EP ‘LCD’ on September 22nd via Label Obscura (cassette) and Somewherecold Records (CD). It will also be available across all the regular digital shops and streaming platforms. The EP is now available for pre-order on the duo’s Bandcamp.

SELECT QUOTES "Guthrie’s remix is a perfect slice of laid-back dream-pop, and McLarnon’s vocals seem to float over its woozy instrumentation" – The Skinny

Full kaleidoscope of sounds, harmonies and musical instruments… the result is massive with an intricate fabric – Rolling Stone

Ethereal pop indebted to Cocteau Twins and much of the rest of 4AD’s ’80s output – BrooklynVegan

Ummagma’s sound is so trippy I had to buy new studio monitors to make sure I wasn't hallucinating... If Underworld or Chemical Bros had done their song 'Lama', it would be proclaimed an instant classic – Rudy Tambala (A.R. Kane) Digital order https://ummagma.bandcamp.com/album/lcd CD order https://swcummagma.bandcamp.com Cassette order https://labelobscura.bandcamp.com/album/lcd Soundcloud playlist https://soundcloud.com/ummagma/sets/ummagma-lcd-ep Back to You’ (Dean Garcia Mix) https://soundcloud.com/ummagma/back-to-you-dean-garcia-spc-eco-mix Lama (Robin Guthrie Mix) https://soundcloud.com/ummagma/lama-robin-guthrie-mix Lama (Robin Guthrie Mix) https://youtu.be/Gk0tuoIgWX0

Adwaith new double A-sided single & Welsh Dates including Festival No 6

Fast rising Carmarthen based female trio Adwaith unveil their brilliant new double A-side single 'Lipstick Coch' and 'FEMME' this summer. Vividly depicting their knack for melody and sound and their ability to create a direct emotional connection with the listener. Adwaith’s brand new double A-side single heralds a beginning of a new sound for the band. Whereas previously the band painted sounds with a palette of muted sombre colours Lipstick Coch and FEMME explode with bright confident neon.

"Criticise the double-standards of promiscuity between the sexes, all while wrapping it up in a sweet, jangly, hook-laden melody reminiscent of C86 that makes it all the more biting." DIY MAGAZINE

'Lipstick Coch (Red Lipstick)' is a fully charged post punk anthem in the vain of The Slits at their most immediate, an anthem celebrating youth, androgyny and love.The flipside 'FEMME' on the other hand could quite easily have been a long lost single on Postcard Records or Cherry Red Records from the mid-80s.

With its jangly C86 indie pop sound as a canvas to the witty, heartfelt lyrics Adwaith discuss femininity and the sexism experienced by them as young women. This is an inspirational song from an inspirational band willing to stand up for their beliefs.

These songs are brave, creative moves both musically and lyrically for the band, yet they retain the distinctive melodic gift that is so recognisable in all Adwaith’s songs. A gift that has gained the band fast critical acclaim and extensive radio plays, most noticeably on BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio 6, BBC Radio Cymru and Amazing Radio.

The release of the singles come hot on the heels of Adwaith’s Maida Vale recording session for Huw Stephens in these legendary BBC studios. Their summer is full of activity including a live set on the BBC Introducing Stage at FOCUSWales festival broadcast live on Adam Walton’s BBC Radio Wales show.

Adwaith were introduced on the BBC Introducing stage at Latitude festival as the most exciting band from Wales in decades and will finish the summer on the Gorwelion /Horizons stage at Festival No 6. In the middle of all this activity, Adwaith have managed to record their debut album, and their label Libertino believe its 'creatively ground breaking and will stand as one of the important albums from Wales alongside the works of Gorky Zygotic Mynci, Super Furry Animals and Gwenno.'

LibertinoRecords.com

Adwaith upcoming dates 2017:

7th August, Monday, Cardiff Moon Club

8th and 9th August, Tuesday, Wednesday, Steddfod Genedlaethol 8 Llwyfan y Maes, 9 Caffi Maes B

2nd September Big Cwtch Festival, Saturday

8th September, Friday, Festival No 6

9th September, Saturday, Syria SirGar gig Llanelli with Syrian musicians

16 September, Saturday, Indie Fest, Clwb Ifor Bach

30 September, Saturday, Riverfront Newport

3rd November, Friday, Do Not Go Gentle Festival Swansea

8th December, Friday, Libertino Christmas Party, Clwb Ifor Bach Links

Adwaith Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adwaithband/ Adwaith Twitter: https://twitter.com/adwaithband Libertino Records Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-396293907

'Cocteau Twins' mastermind Robin Guthrie re-envisions Ummagma ‘Lama’

Ummagma will release their new ‘LCD’ EP on September 22nd, preceded by the stunning lead single 'Lama', remixed by Cocteau Twins mastermind artist-producer Robin Guthrie. As the first taste of Ummagma's forthcoming four-track ‘LCD’ EP, Robin Guthrie’s mix of ‘Lama’ is a tantalising window into their breathtaking dream pop sound. This musical tapestry, built around delicate percussion, shimmering guitar trails and gorgeous vocal refrains is familiar yet otherworldly. It’s a sublime snapshot of Ummagma as you have never heard them before. When mutual friends put Ummagma and Cocteau Twins multi-instrumentalist Robin Guthrie in touch after introducing him to their music, he was so taken with ‘Lama’ that he decided to not only re-arrange it, but add his own guitar parts to the new mix. The result is this wonderful new version of the song. As a monumental member of the Cocteau Twins, Guthrie helped pioneer their classic 4AD sound throughout their existence and, once again, his trademark feedback drenched guitar sound is featured here, showing his subtlety, as well as his ability to craft majestic sonic textures. Ummagma are a dream pop duo formed of Shauna McLarnon, a vocalist from the Yukon wilderness and Alexander Kretov, a multi-instrumentalist from small town Ukraine. In a chance encounter, they met in the suburban sprawl of Moscow, where they were each pursuing different musical paths. Bonding over their shared influences and weaving in their diverse backgrounds, this affair with love and sound soon developed into a marriage and the musical union we know today as Ummagma. In 2013, Ummagma won the Alternative Eurovision on Amazing Radio, representing Ukraine. Ummagma ‘LCD’ involves not only one, but two legendary musicians, the other being maverick electronic musician Dean Garcia of Curve fame. Ummagma says they are thrilled that that two legends – both personal musical heroes of theirs – have helped shape their new EP. “I grew up listening to Cocteau Twins, Curve, and so many bands from the 4AD and Creation labels, and then later introduced them to my husband. He learned of them late, having been born in the USSR. We feel incredibly honoured that Robin Guthrie and Dean Garcia have shaped several of our tracks as they personally envision them,” says vocalist Shauna McLarnon. Ummagma release their new EP ‘LCD’ on September 22nd via Label Obscura (digital, cassette) and Somewherecold Records (CD). The EP will be available for pre-order on the duo’s Bandcamp. SELECT PRESS This is a really brilliant post-rocky shoegazey woozy ambient thing. It's absolutely beautiful - Dani Charlton, Amazing Radio Full kaleidoscope of sounds, harmonies and musical instruments… the result is massive with an intricate fabric - Rolling Stone Russia Ethereal pop indebted to Cocteau Twins and much of the rest of 4AD’s ’80s output - BrooklynVegan This is really very cosmic music. Made of stardust - Joe Foster (Creation Records) An honest, believable & beautiful lyric delivered by an honest, believable & beautiful voice. When you combine this with the swirling ambience of lush layered guitars this duo end up with their own unique sonic landscape - Malcolm Holmes (OMD) Ummagma’s sound is so trippy I had to buy new studio monitors to make sure I wasn't hallucinating... If Underworld or Chemical Bros did their song 'Lama', it would be proclaimed an instant classic- Rudy Tambala (A.R. Kane) https://ummagma.bandcamp.com/album/lcd

CASE STUDY: LETTERS

Edinburgh's five piece Letters caused quite a stir at the start of 2011 when their dark cello pop, urgent melancholic vocals and ambitious rock instrumentation, saw their first double sided free single 'Grand National / Pipe Dreams' cause a buzz across the UK's media and blogosphere. Scotsman Radar, The Pop Cop, Jim Gellatly, CMU Daily and Ally McCrae’s Radio1 Session in Scotland were among the many voices declaring Letters as the band to watch.
PRESS FOR GRAND NATIONAL/PIPE DREAMS SINGLE RELEASE

"The hottest new band in Scotland right now." The Pop Cop

"It's rare that such a new band sounds so close to the finished article...fans of acts such as Jimmy Eat World will find much to admire in the pedal-to-the-metal chorus, but there's still plenty of musical meat on the bones.” Scotsman Radar

“An enthralling mix of Frightened Rabbit and Idlewild.” Faded Glamour

"Their tendency to leap on the distortion pedal as songs draw to an end, and my weakness for vocals sung in a Scottish accent, it makes for a winning formula...They could have a very bright future indeed." CMU

Letters are a million musical miles away from most other Edinburgh acts. While the two tracks they’ve made available on their site so far demonstrate a knack for a nice harmony, the music is very much plugged in, with the riff that drives 'Grand National' towards its coda falling into the ‘bruising’ category. And all the while that large, cumbersome stringed instrument is clearly audible.

http://radar.scotsman.com/viewpost.aspx?id=386



With elegance and class, with darkness and light entwined, Edinburgh’s Letters are warmly welcomed to The Whiteboard Project pages with their track ‘Pipe Dreams’ that is without doubt a worthy ‘Track Of The Day.’

http://thewhiteboardproject.tumblr.com/post/3106139742/track-of-the-day-letters

Edinburgh indie artists Letters, do just that twice, with their debut double a-sided single. Two stunning tracks which deliver freshness and originality and for a group that only formed the in the back end of 2010, it is scarily exciting what they could achieve in the future from this confident and accomplished start.

http://www.rockpulse.co.uk/reviews/453/letters-double-a-side-single-grand-national--pipe-dreams-22-1-2011/

As it starts, it reminds me a lot of Final Fantasy, with the gorgeous strings and the similar vocal style, before shifting up a few gears and taking a darker, rockier turn round

http://www.kowalskiy.co.uk/2011/01/k-with-letters.html

The band exhume an extremely striking brand of indie pop which has a resonating quality. The topic is often of woe, but the songs are uplifting, and the delivery absorbing.

The juxtaposition of prominent cello and processed drums, and the tendency to give songs that big push at the end earmarks this as something special.


http://favouriteson.wordpress.com/2011/02/13/letters-the-grand-nationalpipe-dreams/

Letters have their own sound but there is more than a hint of Ra Ra Riot within this offering, especially on 'Grand National'. They have created a similar haunting sound with emotional sounding tunes. Maybe a lot of this comes from Georgie Williamson's cello which creates a similar feel to the one that Alexandra Lawn gives to Ra Ra Riot. Both tunes are quite simply amazing.

http://www.roomthirteen.com/cd_reviews/11648/Letters__The_Grand_NationalPipe_Dreams.html

Refined pop with a warm classical glow. A significant band just might be emerging here, confidently coming up for air…

http://www.organart.demon.co.uk/organthing076.html

Other links:
http://suckinglemons.co.uk/2011/03/03/letters/

http://www.shout4music.com/single-reviews/letters-%E2%80%98pipe-dreams-grand-national%E2%80%99/

http://www.highvoltage.org.uk/article.php?type=4&id=1232

http://loudhorizon.wordpress.com/2011/02/06/letters-grand-national-pipe-dreams/

http://www.neverenoughnotes.co.uk/wordpress/2011/02/letters-new-double-sided-single-grand-nationalpipe-dreams-free-download/

http://17seconds.co.uk/blog/2011/02/22/presentingletters/

http://reviewgraveyard.com/00_revs/r2011/music/11-02-16_letters-pipedreams.html

http://breakingmorewaves.blogspot.com/2011/03/letters-new-waves.html

http://www.mudkiss.com/andysfebsinglereviews.htm

http://www.thebluewalrus.com/2011/02/21/bands-to-watch-letters/


The release of their follow up single 'Flash!Lights' saw them gain more attention with siginificant radio play on Introducing in scotland, with Jim Gellantly, plus festival appearances at Wickerman and Rockness. Flash!Lights showed a pleasing progression, and allowed Letters to make it into some bigger publications and playlists.


PRESS FOR 'FLASH!LIGHTS' SINGLE RELEASE:

“Taking the booming yet emotional presence of Frightened Rabbit, Letters new single manages to incorporate a throbbingly haunting cello arrangement into soaring guitars that reach Biffy levels of power.” Artrocker

http://www.artrocker.tv/singles/article/singles-for-the-week-starting-4-july

"Dramatised cello, layered guitars and quivering drums all building to a closing minute of sheer pop-mayhem."

http://www.trisickle.co.uk/2011/06/14/preview-letters-flash-light/

Scottish five piece Letters should be loved by plenty though.There's elements of Frightened Rabbit and Idlewild in the band - and the latter influence is particularly prominent as the song progresses.

http://www.fadedglamour.co.uk/2011/11/download-letters-flash-lights-new-track.html

The track builds almost imperceptibly for the first three quarters of its duration before erupting into a full-on orchestrated soundrack of a climax.

http://loudhorizon.wordpress.com/2011/07/12/letters-flash-lights/

Letters have developed their sound into a more complete affair with crisper riffs and the verve and swagger of a band at the top of their game, even at this early stage. The song echoes a post apocalyptic fear and worry, evoking the emptiness we feel when faced with a dilemma, where there is no right answer. Then, as if to compensate you for putting you in this state of fear, Letters knock your head off with a phenomenal close to the track. This climax is met with a gargantuan drum beat and a healthy dose of what I call 'epic noise' (definitely a good thing). If the hairs on the back of your neck don't stand to attention for this, then you probably aren't alive.

http://grierson9.blogspot.com/2011/06/review-letters-flash-lights.html

Edinburgh’s Letters have been busy, releasing early-Idlewild-esque single ‘Flash! Lights!’ (White label ●●●) only months after beginning gigging.

http://www.list.co.uk/article/36031-single-of-the-week-joan-as-police-woman-chemmie/

Flash! Lights is glorious, it is powerful and disturbing, and Letters are the future of dark, indie pop.

http://ringmasterreviewintroduces.wordpress.com/2011/06/27/letters-%E2%80%93-flash-lights/

Letters are probably the best new band I've heard from anywhere this year: listen to 'Flash Lights', and should you remain unmoved by their melodramatic eloquence I then fear you lack a soul.

http://www.tastyfanzine.org.uk/singles112jul11.htm#WeWriteLetters

Other mentions:
http://thedailydose1.wordpress.com/2011/07/14/letters/

http://www.thecmuwebsite.com/article/letters-announce-second-single/

http://dauphinmag.com/tag/flashlights/

http://www.theskinny.co.uk/music/live_reviews/102701-wickerman_2011

http://www.aaamusic.co.uk/2011/07/03/letters-release-new-single-flashlights-as-a-free-download-on-the-4th-of-july/

http://kowalskiy.bandcamp.com/track/flash-lights-demo

http://www.reviewgraveyard.com/00_revs/r2011/music/11-07-04_letters-flashlights.html

CASE STUDY: We're No Heroes

Cardiff disco-math-pop act We’re No Heroes released their new EP ‘Quiet Colours’ in the summer of 2011 with a Launch in Cardiff.

We handled the PR campaign for the EP on a non existant budget and achieved some great results. It was picked up by 6 music, BBC Radio Wales, The White Room Project and Topshop radio who today have playlisted lead track ‘Empty Beat’

Tom Robinson played: We're No Heroes - Atlantic Hearts
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/tomrobinson/2011/06/tracklisting-sunday-19062011.shtml
Bethan Elfyn played: We're No Heroes — Empty Beat.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0125pfq


June 15th sees the release of WNH’s second EP Quiet Colours, the title of which is said to reflect the personalities within the group; meek in everyday life, but a powerful force onstage (much like Clark Kent: perhaps they are heroes after all.) The band whittled the four song set down from eight potentials, determined to construct a strong, coherent record which retains the individuality of each of its component parts

http://themmp.tv/features/were-no-heroes/


The Quiet Colours EP manages to transmit the excitement of their always hugely energetic live shows to the recording studio.

It’s by far and away the best thing the fledgling group have released thus far and hints at greater landmarks yet to be attained.



Read More http://www.walesonline.co.uk/showbiz-and-lifestyle/columnists/2011/06/24/a-sound-reaction-dave-owens-91466-28931920/#ixzz1dFRsJ5DG


http://ringmasterreviewintroduces.wordpress.com/2011/07/09/we%E2%80%99re-no-heroes-%E2%80%93-quiet-colours-ep/It seems with the emergence of every new band with something just slightly different to their sound yet another sub-genre is created and labelled and then quickly filled by more bands in the same ilk. Math pop is one of the newer examples and Welsh band We’re No Heroes a fine example and exponent of a style that is when simplified a lighter more accessible form of math rock.

We're No Heroes actively embrace the math pop tag and there is more than an obvious nod to the likes of Foals and the mathier parts of Two Door Cinema Club.http://www.roomthirteen.com/cd_reviews/12049/Were_No_Heroes__Quiet_Colours_EP.html. Since starting out the band has progressed far, moving to the bright lights of Cardiff and establishing themselves within the local scene, aswell as releasing their debut EP 'Crossing Over' for free on February 14th 2010 which has since been downloaded well over 1000 times.

http://indiestep.blogspot.com/2011/07/were-no-heroes-quiet-colours-ep.html

We’re No Heroes entered Ripefruit Recording Studio’s with producers Jordan Andrews in early 2011 to work on their follow up release, resulting in a new four track EP titled 'Quiet Colours' due to hit on on the 15th June it’s seemingly only a matter of time before the hype machine goes nationwide.

For Fans Of: Foals, This Town Needs Guns, New Young Pony Club, and Minus The Bear.

http://www.alterthepress.com/2011/06/alter-press-presents-were-no-heroes.html


math-pop from the Cardiff trio, the clean guitars and danceable rhythms calling to mind Foals’ first recordhttp://www.inforty.com/?p=7222

These boys are on the brink of something big. Get involved now and I guarantee they’ll be your new musical heroes before long.


http://thewhiteboardproject.tumblr.com/post/6563053951/ep-review-were-no-heroes

Rather than throw another bog-standard interview their way, we thought we would speak to the band and, in an attempt to find out a little more about their influences, ask them to tell us about their five musical heroes. See what we did there?

http://www.goldflakepaint.co.uk/?p=3924


Other links
http://www.beatreview.com/news/were-no-heroes-release-new-ep/
http://www.zoofs.com/v/7spL58j_a8s
http://www.glasswerk.co.uk/index.php?db=wales
http://fiskbook.wordpress.com/2011/06/16/post1/
http://www.thesprout.co.uk/en/news/review-were-uiet-colours/05695.html
http://www.subba-cultcha.com/album-reviews/article.php?contentID=25151
http://www.rhythm-and-booze.co.uk/?tag=were-no-heroes
http://nvronrpt.blogspot.com/2011/06/were-no-heroes-quiet-colours.html#!/2011/06/were-no-heroes-quiet-colours.html
http://www.cliconline.co.uk/en/events/were-no-heroessy-vvolves/03636.html
http://ringmasterreviewintroduces.wordpress.com/tag/quiet-colours/
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/showbiz-and-lifestyle/showbiz/2011/01/21/review-the-new-objects-vanity-fair-we-re-no-heroes-undertone-cardiff-91466-28025773/
http://houndgalz.blogspot.com/2011/05/were-no-heroes-interview.html
http://www.aaamusic.co.uk/2011/07/11/were-no-heroes-new-ep-quiet-colours-gains-attention-of-bbc-wales-tom-robinson-and-topshop/

CASE STUDY: The Whiskey Priest (Rainboot Label)

The Whiskey Priest released their majestic new album Wave and Cloud, through the Rainboot (label) on the 23rd of August 2010. The Whiskey Priest is Austin, Texas based songwriter Seth Woods. He's produced a heartbreaking album of alt-country power. We took over the campaign to help gain online and print press in the UK.

The Whiskey Priest
Wave and Cloud


CLICK TO LISTEN TO / DOWNLOAD THE
ALBUM
http://whiskeypriest.bandcamp.com/
(CDs are available from Amazon, Play.com, HMV etc)

COVERAGE:

"If 2008 belonged to Bon Iver, then The Whiskey Priest deserves 2010"
Black Plastic
http://www.blackplastic.co.uk/alternative-electronic-music-b/2010/8/23/album-review-wave-and-cloud-the-whiskey-priest.html

"No matter how bad things are, Wave and cloud reminds you that there is a light at the end of the tunnel."
Sloucher.org

"The best sermon you've heard all week"
The Deli Magazine

"If I could marry a CD, I seriously would consider marrying this one"
A Case Of Sonic Attack

"It is a brave musician that opens his debut album with a nine minute epic, but the soft, slow stormy heartbreak that is Seafarer’s Lament that sets the stage for The Whiskey Priest’s Wave and Cloud."
The Blue Walrus
http://www.thebluewalrus.com/2010/09/13/the-whiskey-priest-wave-and-cloud/

http://musosguide.com/the-whiskey-priest-wave-and-cloud/11518

the album is a solid collection of love songs, or seen in another light, real poetry.
http://www.music-news.com/showreview.asp?nReviewID=6280

Wave and Cloud is by no means a ground breaker, but for conjuring something with je ne sais quoi out of such familiar elements, it’s very much worth your while.

http://www.neverenoughnotes.co.uk/wordpress/2010/08/the-whiskey-priest-wave-and-cloud-23-8-10-rainboot/

I don’t think it’ll have the same word of mouth phenomenon as Mr Vernon’s opus, but for those who think Emma seems like forever ago, you could do worse than audition this release.
http://www.sicmagazine.net/articles/760/the-whiskey-priest-wave-and-cloud


http://www.zaptownmag.com/2010/12/the-whiskey-priest-wave-and-cloud-music-review

http://www.strangersinstereo.com/12907/the-whiskey-priest-%E2%80%93-wave-and-cloud/

...you should also check out the lo-fi beauty of The
Whiskey Priest live

Letters new single 'Flash!Lights' released as a free download on the 4th of July! Stream

LETTERS RELEASE NEW SINGLE 'FLASH!LIGHTS' AS A FREE DOWNLOAD ON THE 4TH OF JULY.



LETTERS - Flash! Lights by Soundandvisionpr

Edinburgh's five piece Letters caused quite a stir earlier this year when their dark cello pop, urgent melancholic vocals and ambitious rock instrumentation, saw their first double sided free single 'Grand National / Pipe Dreams' cause a buzz across the UK's media and blogosphere. Scotsman Radar, The Pop Cop, Jim Gellatly, CMU Daily and Ally McCrae’s Radio1 Session in Scotland were among the many voices declaring Letters as the band to watch. The anticipation mounted for their next move, a series of low key gigs and select festival appearances at Wickerman and Rockness followed.

Now they reveal their darker side on new release 'Flash! Lights’. A slow burning anthem that sears itself into your brain though singer Michael Ferguson's emotive refrain; 'set this relic up on fire/its a past life its over’. Its throbbing cello lines, cascading fearsome drum patterns, layered guitar riffs, and grand strings building to crashing crescendos in its final epic minute. In the band's own words...

"Flash! Lights', to paraphrase one of the lyrics in the song, is about feeling dwarfed by the possibilities of time and the panic induced by fear of under achievement. It's about trying to let go of your past and your vices in order that you embrace the things that truly inspire you and ultimately drive you forward, all the while recognising the complete hopelessness that neither of these aforementioned things can exist without the other.

We wanted to write a song that put the fear of God in us, something that can be as scary as the subject matter and I think we've managed to achieve that."

"The hottest new band in Scotland right now." The Pop Cop

"It's rare that such a new band sounds so close to the finished article...fans of acts such as Jimmy Eat World will find much to admire in the pedal-to-the-metal chorus, but there's still plenty of musical meat on the bones.” Scotsman Radar

“An enthralling mix of Frightened Rabbit and Idlewild.” Faded Glamour

"Their tendency to leap on the distortion pedal as songs draw to an end, and my weakness for vocals sung in a Scottish accent, it makes for a winning formula...They could have a very bright future indeed." CMU

Letters will celebrate their new release with a gig at Henry's Cellar Bar on the 7th July. They will also be playing a few select gigs over the Summer including an acoustic show at 'Inspace' as part of the Edinburgh International Film Festival on the 24th June and the Solus Tent, Wickerman Festival on the 23rd July. Details of more gigs can be found at www.wewriteletters.co.uk/live

http://www.wewriteletters.co.uk



PR Bill Cummings soundandvisionpr@googlemail.com

We're No Heroes new EP 'Quiet Colours' out now!

Cardiff disco-math-pop act We're No Heroes released their new EP 'Quiet Colours' recently (June 15th) with a Launch in Cardiff.

Streams
http://soundcloud.com/soundandvisionpr/sets/were-no-heroes-quiet-colours

We're No Heroes - Quiet Colours EP by Soundandvisionpr


Trailer to share

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7spL58j_a8s&feature=player_embedded#at=23

Regards and enjoy the music



South Wales math-pop three piece We're No Heroes release their new EP 'Quiet Colours' on June 15th 2011, in association with At Your Own Risk Events.

Perfecting songs written over a six month period through live performances and rigorous jam sessions, WNHs hit Ripefruit Recordings studio in Cardiff with respected producer Jordan Andrews. The band set about condensing and refining their sound still further, whittling their initial eight demo tracks down to the four strongest songs in the set, piecing them together the finished results sounded more fluid, hanging together as a record, and the best thing the fledgling group have released thus far. 'Quiet Colours EP' features four tracks 'Atlantic Hearts', 'You're An Empty Beat', 'Tigers' & 'Latitude' and will be released digitally worldwide on the 15th of June, whilst simultaneously getting a limited physical release in the UK.

We're No Heroes note that 'each of their songs has its own personality and story, coming together to create one whole.' Some have pointed out that the title of their new EP 'Quiet Colours' is a reflection of the personality of each band member, their meek and geeky image offstage contrasted by their addictively tuneful, powerhouse live sound, each song reflecting a different aspect of the WNHs sonic assault on the senses.
The band formed transatlactically in the summer of 2009 when a practice in a downtown Chicago studio led the Welsh lads to lay down the basic concepts of the WNHs sound. It may have been the influence of the big city or big dreams but each member became ever more excited and focused upon creating something fun and original. The outcome, disco flecked math pop with insatiable four to the floor rhythms, precise guitar riffs and addictive vocal refrains that weave their way into your head and wont let go for days! On their return to the UK the band have progressed rapidly, moving to Cardiff and establishing themselves in the local scene, releasing their debut EP 'Crossing Over' in February 2010, attracting over 1500 online downloads.

Now, We're No Heroes release the follow up 'Quiet Colours' EP on the 15th of June.

Website - http://www.werenoheroes.com/
Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/werenoheroes

Current campaigns: Galleries, Dead Boy Robotics, The Machine Room & Ideals

Hi just an update on the acts I'm currently pushing in terms of new releases.

Galleries, Dead Boy Robotics, The Machine Room & Ideals. We have even more in the pipeline more info soundandvisionpr@googlemail.com

Band: Galleries

Label: White

Genre: Indie

Release date: 11th of May

Glasgow four piece Galleries release their new single 'Darkness Coming' on the 11th of May. Launching it with a single launch at Glasgow's Captain’s Rest, alongside other fine bands We See Lights + Letters.

In April, Galleries recorded a set of songs that depict their progression as an act. The first fruits of those sessions arrive in the shape of new single 'Darkness Coming' is both epic and affecting and perhaps Galleries most immediate cut yet.

'Darkness Coming's addictive sound instantly envelops you in it's cinematic wall of noise: of a throbbing rhythm section, guitar licks and hollered backing vocals that shoot across the skies, while at its core the heart stopping, soaring notes of lead singer David McAdam gaze with awe at the stars.

Galleries prepared their debut EP over the course of 2010; refining their sound and live performance before unveiling it to the world. 'Galleries EP' was released as a free download to the public in January 2010, it was followed up by the single Rocket Science.

Galleries have had radio play from BBC Radio 1 Scotland and also performed live on the station, while influential Scottish blogger The Pop Cop was amongst those in the Scottish scene who pinpointed the band as ones to watch enthusing that "Galleries stand head and shoulders above their peers in Glasgow's crowded guitar-band scene."

Galleries recent activities include series of well-received performances at festivals such as Wickerman, and writing their debut album, which is due to, be recorded throughout 2011.

Glasgow four piece Galleries release their new single 'Darkness Coming' on the 11th of May. Launching it with a single launch at Glasgow's Captain’s Rest, alongside other fine bands We See Lights + Letters.

Galleries consists of David McAdam- vocalist, guitarist, laptop and song writer, Paul Campsie- guitarist, Adam Hall – Bassist and Andrew Black- Drummer.

http://soundcloud.com/soundandvisionpr/galleries-darkness-coming
http://soundcloud.com/galleries/darkness-cominghttp://www.galleriesband.co.uk/

Band: Dead Boy Robotics/The Machine Room
Label: Tape
Genre: Indie/Electro
Release date: 23rd of May

Also check it out here http://www.tapestudio.com/
Public streams feel free to share:
http://soundcloud.com/tapestudio-1/01-ever
http://soundcloud.com/tapestudio-1/02-girly

TAPE SINGLES CLUB RELEASE A SPLIT SINGLE BY DEAD BOY ROBOTICS & MACHINE ROOM: “EVER/GIRLY” ON THE 23RD OF MAY.

TAPE is a boutique recording studio & dedicated mixing suite bang in the centre of Edinburgh. It is home to a lovingly curated collection of modern, vintage and bespoke equipment. TAPE are extremely passionate about the artists they work with, so to coincide with the launch of their brand new 2011 studio they present: TAPE SINGLES CLUB!

TAPE SINGLES CLUB is a showcase for those artists that have come to Tape, stolen THEIR hearts and deserve to be heard. Tape commits them to history as a piece of vinyl and splits it equally between 2 bands 3 times a year. The first of Tape’s exclusive split-singles comes from two wonderful Edinburgh bands, namely Dead Boy Robotics and The Machine Room. The launch date for “Ever/Girly” on limited edition 7” vinyl / Digital Download is the May of 23rd. Four Scottish Tour dates are planned around the launch to promote the single release.

Dead Boy Robotics, a group praised for their dark synth powered music and engaging live show, mixed their acclaimed debut EP ‘Tale of the Winter Kids’ with Tape in early 2010. Dead Boy Robotics soon to be released debut album was recorded, mixed and mastered with the studio team. “Ever” from the album, is released as a split 7” vinyl with Edinburgh band The Machine Room in May as part of Tape Singles Club.

The Machine Room, are new to the Edinburgh music scene but are destined for big things. A recently recorded E.P at Tape caught their attention, which is set for release later this year. They have been dazzling audiences with their lush Polysix tones, dream like guitars and honest falsetto lyrics, they are ethereal, vulnerable and strikingly Pop all at once. Tape certainly has high hopes for this fledgling act. ‘Girly’, the band’s first release is out May 23rd as part of TAPE singles club.

Websites

www.tapestudio.com
www.myspace.com/tapestudio
www.myspace.com/deadboyrobotics
www.myspace.com/themachineroommusic

Contact

Studio: Tom tom@tapestudio.com
PR: Bill Cummings soundandvisionpr@googlemail.com
http://www.soundandvisionpr.co.uk

ARTIST: Ideals

TRACK TITLE: Significant Other.

LABEL: Intruder Records

FORMAT: Limited Edition CD & Digital Download

RELEASE (FREE DOWNLOAD): Out Now

OFFICIAL RELEASE (DIGITAL RETAILERS) 4^th July 2011

London based four piece Ideals new single ‘Reflections’ is FREE to download now, until its official release on 4th July 2011 when it hits the global digital retailers.

http://music.intruderlabel.com/track/reflections-ideals
http://soundcloud.com/soundandvisionpr/ideals-reflections

IDEALS sound is sharp, melodic and cinematic, honed through the bands continuous touring across the UK. IDEALS new single ‘Reflections’ broods with an epic majesty the pressure building to shattering crescendos, its throbbing baselines and shifting menacing rhythms are laid bare as you swerve away from your old life down moonlit motorways. While intriguing front man Andew Major sketches out a vivid narrative of brutal self-reflection:   

“Reflections is leaving a part of yourself behind you, casting it away on the side of the road. But inevitably that part of you will always be there inside somewhere and gets brought out at the worst times. ”Notes Major, revealing the inspiration behind the track “I just thought it was strange how you as a person are meant to treat the people closest to you (loved ones, family, friends etc) with the most amount of compassion and love but somewhere along a very long line you begin to let out a part of you that you didn’t know existed”

IDEALS were born in Ipswich but formed in London in early 2010 and quickly penned a deal with ambitious London label Intruder Records. By the end of the year they had released 4 singles, Lungs, Love Song, Forever Leisure & Don't Tell Anyone. Over each release they developed their epic, unstoppable sound that filled discos and shattered hearts across the country.  The melancholy remains, but the sweet melodies permeate the surface but the whole sound comes down over you like an almighty waterfall. IDEALS are exhilarating. 2011 is set to be a busy year. Having already played with Pete Doherty and The Automatic, they’ve already completed a UK tour in support of the new release and plan a German tour for June.

IDEALS have six singles slated for this year, the first release 'Significant Other' released in early 2011 ( video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRZWDE5KBWs) was praised by Music Week, Artrocker and played on Steve Lamacq's six music show. Their forthcoming single 'Reflections' will only see their star shoot further into orbit!

"('Significant Other') is a great track....Musically it’s big, dark and melodramatic with a rich, polished production. Imagine the National fronted by The Editors Tom Smith and you’d be pretty close." Artrocker

Andrew Major – Vocals / Guitars

Simon Wilson – Bass

Ben Ward – Drums

Johnny Healey – Guitar

http://soundcloud.com/intruderrecords/sets/ideals-tracks-in-order-of-release

iwww.myspace.com/idealstheband

http://www.facebook.com/idealstheband

http://www.intruderrecords.co.uk/idealspress