Category: Music
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In Conversation With Talkradio
Rock, alternative, and catchy. These three words are how Alex Papas succinctly describes his sound in solo project Talkradio. It’s a statement that doesn’t just label his music but hints at its enduring, infectious quality—an energy that resonates well beyond the first listen. If you’re new to Alex’s catalogue, “No…
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Albums of the Year 2024 #9: Western Approaches, Red Rum Club
Red Rum Club’s fourth album, Western Approaches, cements their position as one of the most exciting bands to emerge from Liverpool in the last decade. Released in February this year, it feels like the culmination of years of honing their craft, expanding their horizons, and finding a sound that’s uniquely…
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Albums of the Year 2024 #8: Once Upon a Weekend, Corella
Every so often, a debut album comes along that feels perfectly timed, like the universe nudged it into the spotlight just when we needed it most. Once Upon a Weekend by Manchester’s Corella is that kind of record. Released earlier this year, the album brims with infectious indie-rock energy, its…
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A Major Leap Forward: ASM Global and Music Venue Trust Join Forces to Support Grassroots Venues
As Editor-in-Chief of The Front Row, I’m thrilled to see the music industry taking a monumental step forward with the expanded partnership between ASM Global and Music Venue Trust (MVT). Starting this December, all ASM Global venues across the UK will fundraise for MVT and their network of independent venues—a…
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Albums of the Year 2024 #7: The Mysterines, Afraid of Tomorrows
The Mysterines’ second album, Afraid of Tomorrows, isn’t just a follow-up to their acclaimed debut, Reeling—it’s a complete evolution. Released on June 21, 2024, this record redefines the band’s sound, trading the raw immediacy of their first album for something more expansive, layered, and emotionally charged. Recorded over five weeks…
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Albums of the Year 2024 #6 Wunderhorse – Midas
There’s something electric about watching a band evolve in real time. For Wunderhorse—the brainchild of Jacob Slater—their second album, Midas, marks a bold new chapter. Released in August 2024, Midas takes the meticulous songwriting of their debut Cub and throws it into a furnace of distorted guitars, raw emotion, and…
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LIVE REVIEW: Sam Fender @ First Direct Arena, Leeds
Sam Fender brought his People Watching tour to Leeds Arena on 4th December, and what a night it was. Packed with heartfelt moments, stunning production, and a setlist that had something for everyone, this was the kind of gig that stays with you. Critics on social media might have had…
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Albums of the Year 2024 #5: The Snuts – Millennials
With Millennials, The Snuts have taken a daring step forward. Released on February 23, 2024, their third album sees the West Lothian quartet move beyond the politically charged anthems of Burn the Empire (2022) and into a more intimate, reflective space. Trading scathing social critiques for themes of love, youth,…
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Sleep Token at First Direct Arena, Leeds – December 2, 2024: An Arena Ritual to Silence Doubts
In the pantheon of contemporary heavy music, few acts provoke as much debate as Sleep Token. Their genre-defying sound and anonymous presentation inspire fervent devotion among fans while leaving others questioning their place in the industry. On December 2, 2024, at Leeds’ First Direct Arena, Sleep Token delivered a performance…
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Albums of the Year 2024: #4 The K’s – I Wonder If the World Knows?
After seven years of relentless gigging, cultivating a devoted following, and steadily releasing singles, The K’s finally delivered their long-awaited debut album, I Wonder If the World Knows?. Released on April 5, 2024, the record debuted at an impressive No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart. For this band from…
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Albums of the Year 2024: #3 Midnight Butterflies, Sea Girls
Sea Girls have always had a knack for translating the chaos of young adulthood into heartfelt indie anthems. But with Midnight Butterflies, their third studio album, they’ve elevated their craft. Released on June 14, 2024, under their independent label, Alt. Records, this album doesn’t just build on their past—it refines…
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Albums of the Year 2024: #2 Courting, New Last Name
Some albums are good. Some albums are great. And then there are albums like Courting’s New Last Name, which grab hold of their moment and demand your attention. With this second studio record, the Liverpool quartet has delivered something bold, boundary-pushing, and bristling with creative ambition. Released on January 26,…
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Albums of the Year #1 – Shed Seven, A Matter of Time
2024 will forever be remembered as the year of Shed Seven. Not only did the band achieve their first-ever UK Number One album with A Matter of Time in January, but they followed it up in September with another chart-topper, Liquid Gold. This staggering accomplishment places them among an elite…
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Welcome to the Space Beach: Mandrake Handshake Announce Debut Album ‘Earth-Sized Worlds’
If you’re in the mood for a kaleidoscopic journey to the edge of the cosmos—and back again, Mandrake Handshake’s debut album, Earth-Sized Worlds, promises to be the ticket you’ve been waiting for. Set to drop on February 21st via the cult indie powerhouse Tip Top Recordings, the London/Oxford-based “Flowerkraut” collective…
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Tramlines 2025: A Dream Lineup with Pulp, The Reytons, and Kasabian!
Tramlines Festival is pulling out all the stops for its 16th edition in 2025! Returning to Sheffield’s Hillsborough Park from July 25th to 27th, the festival promises an unforgettable weekend of music, community, and celebration. With Pulp, The Reytons, and Kasabian headlining the event, it’s a line-up that feels like…
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The Front Row Release Radar 24.11.2024
Welcome to The Front Row Release Radar, your go-to weekly feature where we spotlight five incredible new releases that deserve a spot on your playlist. This week’s picks are brimming with soulful melodies, introspective lyrics, and a whole lot of heart. Dive in as we explore the best fresh music…
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The Journey of DMA’s: From Sydney Streets to Global Stages
Sydney’s DMA’s have carved a unique path in modern music, blending Britpop nostalgia with a contemporary indie edge. Their rise from local obscurity to international acclaim is a story of passion, persistence, and a distinctive sound that resonates deeply with fans across the globe. In this blog, we delve into…
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Live from the Front Row: Black Stone Cherry – AO Arena, Manchester
Last night, I found myself in the heart of Manchester at the AO Arena, surrounded by thousands of fellow rock enthusiasts, eagerly awaiting a night with Black Stone Cherry. It was my fifth time seeing the Kentucky rockers, but from the moment the lights dimmed and the opening chords of…
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Live from the Front Row: Courteeners + DMAs & Reverend and the Makers – Leeds First Direct Arena
On a chilly November night, the First Direct Arena in Leeds played host to a trio of exceptional acts, each bringing their unique energy to a night full of indie brilliance. Though evidently not sold out, the arena was packed enough to create a lively and electric atmosphere, especially on…
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Single Review: The Crooks – Dreaming Out Loud
Few bands carry the weight of expectation quite like The Crooks. Bursting onto the scene in 2019 as one of the UK’s most exciting new guitar bands, they set a high bar with their raw energy and commanding sound. Now, with their fourth release of this year, Dreaming Out Loud,…
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