9 May 2010

Future of the Left Line-Up Change



Future of the Left have announced that they are to become a four-piece, and that bassist, Kelson Mathias, is leaving the band and to be replaced. I wrote a short news article on the topic, which is online now at The Line of Best Fit.

The fourth band member will be, I'd imagine, revealed in the coming days...

1 May 2010

Barely Regal Records - An Introduction to Cardiff's Newest Record Label



Last night saw the welcoming of brand-spanking new Cardiff-based record label Barely Regal at Clwb Ifor Bach - and a good night it was too.

Fitting the bill for their official launch, as well as the release of their compilation CD made up of their favourite Cardiff bands, were three acts from this CD - Samaons, Theo, and Man Without Country - who all did their part in making the night a massive success. The highlight of the three, for me, was without doubt Theo. The one-man instrumental post-rock/math-rock machine makes an incredible noise, building layers of intricate guitar loops before destroying the drum kit over the top of this (not too dissimilar to Right Hand Left Hand, for those aware of them only with half the man power). Definitely worth checking out live; you'll be impressed.

Other bands on the compilation disc, which comes with a snazzy little booklet with some info about each band and how the gents at Barely Regal came to know of them, include Strange News from Another Star, Right Hand Left Hand, Goodtime Boys and Among Brothers.

Find Barely Regal on Facebook, Twitter, or at their very own blog for more.